Why Use Science?

Does using scientific methods hinder our ability to experience a paranormal event?

In the case of the paranormal it could be argued that Schroedinger's principal applies and that having witnesses to the event could be a cause of the event itself - but to have any hope of studying the paranormal I think you'd have to follow rigourous recording procedures. If the event is a one off or repeating it would be good to get good information on what happened. A scientific viewpoint could also reveal any mistakes made - witness error in spotting a natural phenomenon, or help to recreate the conditions to maybe repeat the experience - if indeed some hauntings are linked to electromagnetic disturbances (which have been tied into the effects of temporal lobe epilepsy), and other such theories.

As long as science doesn't debunk the event before it has even been witnessed then I don't think there should be a problem.

I would always advocate a scientific approach to investigating paranormal experiences. If your investigation is not carried out in a scientific manner with sufficient controls and a good experimental design, then the scientific community shouldn't accept accept your findings.

I want to try and understand the paranormal better and help uncover the mechanics behind it, but I feel that if the results you get aren't going to be accepted then why bother trying?

I don't think taking a scientific approach hinders your ability to have an experience as I have been on vigils in controlled conditions and had experiences that are as yet unexplained. Good question Moneypenny

As a good friend of mine keeps saying, "You don't need to be a scientist to be scientific".

Anyone can approach a case in a scientific manner and they will probably get more satisfaction out of their investigation.