Testing nonlocal observation as a source of intuitive knowledge

Explore : the Journal of Science and Healing
Dean I Radin

Abstract

This study explored the hypothesis that in some cases intuitive knowledge arises from perceptions that are not mediated through the ordinary senses. The possibility of detecting such nonlocal observation was investigated in a pilot test based on the effects of observation on a quantum system. Participants were asked to imagine that they could intuitively perceive a low-intensity laser beam in a distant Michelson interferometer. If such observation were possible, it would theoretically perturb the photons' quantum wave functions and change the pattern of light produced by the interferometer. The optical apparatus was located inside a light-tight, double-steel walled, shielded chamber. Participants sat quietly outside the chamber with eyes closed. The light patterns were recorded by a cooled digital camera once per second, and average illumination levels of these images were compared in counterbalanced mental blocking versus nonblocking conditions. By design, perturbation would produce a lower overall level of illumination, which was predicted to occur during the blocking condition. Based on a series of planned experimental sessions, the outcome was in accordance with the prediction (z = -2.82; P = .002). This result was primaril...Continue Reading

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Citations

Dec 3, 2011·The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine : Research on Paradigm, Practice, and Policy·Melvin L Morse, Lance W Beem
Mar 15, 2011·Explore : the Journal of Science and Healing·Gary E Schwartz
Jul 17, 2010·Explore : the Journal of Science and Healing·Stephan A Schwartz
Dec 31, 2008·Explore : the Journal of Science and Healing·Stephan A Schwartz
Jul 8, 2008·Explore : the Journal of Science and Healing·Larry Dossey
Aug 6, 2020·Explore : the Journal of Science and Healing·Marjorie H WoollacottRussell D Park
Jun 1, 2017··Sky Nelson-Isaacs, Sky Nelson-Isaacs

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