What’s the difference between conventional  science and para-science?

Conventional science and the method it uses to understand the world is like a child who rejects all but their own rules. Para-science is more like an adult who has learned the value of flexibility and the importance of experience when gathering knowledge.  For example, just because conventional science says premonitions aren’t possible doesn’t mean they don’t happen. The denial by conventional science merely means such occurrences are outside its chosen rules.

One of the challenges that separate science and para-science is the importance of self-report or subjective reporting.  Conventional science relies on direct observation and measurement combined with the ability to consistently replicate an event on demand. Para-science values experience and the subjective report of an experience. It does not expect any event, such as a premonition, to occur on demand. Within the rules of the scientific method subjective reporting is considered to be unreliable. As a result of science’s narrow focus many things which are known experientially, as truths, are rejected by mainstream science.  Once the difference between the ‘scientific method and the methods employed by para-sciences is known it becomes easier to contemplate much broader variables.

The focus on this, and articles to come, will be on subjects falling under the heading of para-science. The topics will be provided from the experience of people’s lives, common folklore, and ancient wisdom dealing with the energies surrounding us. Subjects such as the importance of ritual, the power of prayer dealing with anger or disappointment, loss or windfalls will be highlighted. It’s hard to believe that good luck can be a strain, but the reality of this situation is that it’s true!  Also, how we deal with our fortune, be it good or bad, will influence immediate and future experiences.

One area that para-science research has focused on is the extreme levels of noise that surround us. What has been discovered is that the general acceptance of noise disrupts the quality of life. The idea of being in silence can be scary to some people. Unfortunately, the reason for the fear relates to the sudden awareness of inner thoughts. It is next to impossible, without serious self-discipline, to remain conscious in a noisy environment.  Learning to acknowledge these energies and how to make use of them will benefit our lives.

The problem with excessive noise in our environment is how it prevents conscious awareness of the immediate moment. Lack of consciousness limits self-knowledge which in turn limits our ability to be true to our self.

This is why Churches, Temples, Meditative Centres and Libraries are all quiet places. External noises prevent us from being in touch with our feelings and thoughts. Discordant noise, such as the combined sounds coming from a radio and a television, limits our behaviour and our ability to think.

Getting in touch with the conscious mind can be challenging, especially if accustomed to noise in the environment. As an experiment try turning off the TV or radio. Try just sitting in the silence. This may be difficult at first. However, as being in silence becomes more comfortable, decision making will feel easier as well. In fact, once consciously chosen silence truly can become golden, just as the ancients have told us.

Prayer involves directing energy with intention and thought forming, or visualizing a specific outcome. This is another area where conventional science and para-science part company. In the next issue evidence supporting prayer and its application will be shown as the exploration of para-scientific topics continues.

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