Psychology and the Phenomena of Spiritualism
By Editor
The question, Can psychology explain the phenomena of Spiritualism? is one that is receiving much attention at the present time by those interested in the study of occult things. Recently we published some statements by an authority on psychical manifestations, showing the connection between these manifestations and those of Spiritualism, and the great extent to which certain classes of society are to-day “experimenting” in these mysteries, in the belief that they have to do only with powers and forces inherent in themselves. The subject is again considered in the Literary Digest of August 23, which quotes the opinion of Dr. Noble, of Elmira, N. Y., “who has been studying the phenomena of Spiritualism.” From the line of reasoning which is being followed, and the conclusions which are being reached, it is plain that the logic of belief in the inherent immortality of the soul is making itself felt, and that from this belief as a premise people are beginning to reason toward the conclusion that the dead can and do communicate with those who are yet living on the earth. The Spiritualists’ point of view on this subject, says the Digest, “is almost invariably repudiated by the Christian church; and yet, as is pointed out by a recent writer, there is no necessary inconsistency in the doctrines of Christianity and those of Spiritualism. Granting the immortality of the spirit, it is not unreasonable to suppose that the spirit might be able to return, and establish relation with its kindred on earth.” (Italics ours.) The Digest then quotes from Dr. Noble the following statement showing how “science” is coming to the aid of Spiritualism in its contest with Christianity:— It was not until recent years that science turned her attention to this important subject. So antagonistic was the church to the phenomena, and so bitter her persecution of those engaged with or recognizing them, that scientific men partook of the prejudice, and joined in the oppression. With the advance and spread of education, prejudices have been cleared up, false theological barriers have been torn down, and, while there is still abroad skepticism as to psychic manifestations and prejudices based on false conceptions of the true religion, the thinking classes have been at work, and the foundation of the new science is already laid. The only safety against this modern “science” and the logic which it employs is the repudiation of the doctrine of man’s inherent immortality. Without this, there would be no starting point from which any of the conclusions affirmed by Spiritualism could be reached. And every Christian ought to repudiate it, since it is a pagan doctrine, pure and simple.