Ghostly encounters, alien abduction, reincarnation, talking to the dead, UFO sightings, inexplicable coincidences, out-of-body and near-death experiences… Are these legitimate phenomena? If not, then how should we go about understanding them?
In this fascinating talk based on research for his latest book, The Science of Weird Shit, Chris French not only provides authoritative evidence-based explanations for a wide range of superficially mysterious phenomena, he also explores further to draw out lessons with wider applications to many other aspects of modern society– where critical thinking is urgently needed.
Paranormal psychologist Chris French will show that belief in paranormal phenomena is neither ridiculous nor trivial; if anything, such claims can tell us a great deal about the human mind if we pay them the attention they are due.
Filled with light-bulb moments and a healthy dose of levity, The Science of Weird Shit is a clever, memorable, and gratifying journey– with a conclusion you won’t soon forget.
Brief Bio
Chris French is Emeritus Professor and former Head of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit in the Psychology Department at Goldsmiths, University of London. He is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society and of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry and a Patron of UK Humanists. He has published well over 200 articles and chapters covering a wide range of topics. His main current area of research is the psychology of paranormal beliefs and anomalous experiences. He frequently appears on radio and television casting a sceptical eye over paranormal claims. His second to most recent book is Anomalistic Psychology: Exploring Paranormal Belief and Experience and his latest book, published in 2024 by MIT Press, is The Science of Weird Shit: Why Our Minds Conjure the Paranormal.
Standard Stuff
Talks are usually on the 4th Wednesday of every month, at 7:00 for 7:30, at The Winchester Club in Winchester. Please take a look at the FAQs for more info.
Admission is £5 which also gives you an entry in the book raffle. We take cash and major cards (cards preferred).
The event is in two parts – the talk and then a Q&A after the interval. We encourage you to support the venue by indulging in the available drinks before and during the event.
You are also welcome to join us for a drink in the bar after the event.