The Paranormal - A Bishop Investigates

Bishop Hugh Montefiore is unusual among his colleagues in his long-standing interest in paranormal phenomena. This book is the result of many years of reading and thinking, and is aimed at both his colleagues and open-minded scientists as well as general readers who need an overview of the field. He deplores the scientistic position of writers like Richard Dawkins, who lump together a ragbag of phenomena (where there is evidence of varying quality) and dismiss the lot without further ado and certainly without considering any serious evidence. The author divides his study into three parts: the paranormal in secular life, religion and the paranormal, and the paranormal and Christianity. His treatment of the evidence and interpretations of psi phenomena, apparitions, NDEs, reincarnation and paranormal experiences of mystics seemed fair to me, and these are illuminated by dialogues with Dr. Peter Fenwick, Bishop Dominic Walker and Prof. Ian Stevenson. There is enough evidence and evaluation for readers to make up their own minds on an informed basis. The Bishop gives his own views in the last chapter, many of which correspond with my own conclusions. He then adds a useful appendix on the soul and the brain. Diehard sceptics are unlikely to read the book in large numbers but I hope that it has been widely circulated within the churches, who cannot afford to dismiss or ignore a book of this scope and quality.