The Psychology of Demonology, Possession, and Exorcism

Spooky season is back! In the latest episode of The Science of Personality, Ryne and I are joined by Chris French, PhD, professor emeritus and former Head of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit in the Psychology Department at Goldsmiths, University of London, to talk about the psychology of demonology, possession, and exorcism. With his primary area of research being the psychology of paranormal beliefs and anomalous experiences, Chris is a frequent radio and television guest who casts a skeptical eye over paranormal claims, and is also the author of multiple books on the paranormal, including his most recent one from earlier this year, titled The Science of Weird Shit. For our loyal listeners, you are well aware by now that Ryne and I dedicate our episodes in October to topics like this to celebrate Halloween and the spooky season. Because demonology, possession, and exorcism are at the core of some of history’s best horror films and literary works, we thought it would be a fun topic to cover, and Chris is the perfect guest to join us for this special episode.