This chapter revisits discussions on belief in unusual phenomena, featuring insights from an expert in Anomalistic Psychology. It delves into coincidences, conspiracy theories, and the psychological factors behind these beliefs, accompanied by personal anecdotes that challenge the listener's understanding of the extraordinary.
The psychologist Chris French has spent decades studying paranormal claims and mysterious experiences, from seemingly impossible coincidences to paintings that purportedly predict the future. In this episode from April 2024, Ian Sample sits down with French to explore why so many of us believe in what he terms ‘weird shit’, and what we can learn from understanding why we are drawn to mysterious and mystic phenomena. Help support our independent journalism at
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