Scientist claims ghosts are "all in your mind"

Swiss neuroscientist Olaf Blanke claims in a recent issue of the journal Nature that phantom effects can be induced in the mind by stimulating the brain with electricity. Naturally, he and other researchers have concluded that ghosts are mere "bodily delusions" — electrical misfirings and nothing more.

This study apparently included two people. Blanke used an implanted electrode to send a current into a region of the brain called the angular gyrus. While the test was focused on language processing, one of the test participants reported sensing another person in bed with her.

Apparently, her “creepy companion” came and went with the ebb and flow of the current.So, is one to conclude from this particular person that all ghosts are caused by electrical miss-firings in the mind? Or did this particular test just happen to mimic what happens when a spirit is present?

This is something that has been the subject of discussion for years. In the early part of the 20^th century, wireless radio pioneer Oliver Lodge proposed that both telepathy and ghostly appearances were achieved through energy transmission connecting living minds to one another and perhaps, even the dead. He said the human brain might function as a kind of receiver, picking up signals at a subconscious level.

Well, since every living thing is comprised of energy, there is no reason to think this is not possible. And I would imagine that an electric current like that used by Blanke could very well have a similar effect. In fact, ghost researchers often report more paranormal activity during thunderstorms, when there is more electricity in the air.

That said, I have seen ghosts myself and at the time, it was not stormy and I was not hooked up to any electric current. I think it also has to do with the energy of the spirit present as well. The more energy they can draw from the surroundings, the more evident they can make their presence. Most of us are aware of the many orbs that can be captured in highly concentrated areas like cemeteries. These spirits are appearing on the most fundamental level. To show themselves as human-like forms necessitates a great deal more energy on their part.

Many studies on the brain have shown that even God-like experiences can be induced. It is interesting that this can happen, but I do not believe it covers the entire range of possibilities. Some even say that near-death experiences result from lack of oxygen to the brain. How then, can a person see and hear what is going on “below them” when they are out of body? This has been proven through various recorded cases.

As much as science would like to poo-poo everything termed paranormal, I don’t think they’ll be able to convince those of us who have had what we consider genuine experiences.