Wings of Illusion: The Origin, Nature, and Future of Paranormal Belief

by John F. Schumaker

Wings of Illusion offers a unique and disquieting perspective on paranormal belief, including religious belief. Schumaker points out that reality-defying beliefs represent one of the few truly universal elements of human culture. Even during the present period, when many traditional beliefs are being weakened, very few people live without some form of paranormal belief. The object of this study is to trace the psychological origins of the paranormal and to consider the implications of the prevalence of paranormal belief for the future development of humanity.The author's conception of the paranormal differs substantially from the way in which this term has been used by previous authors. The book is not an attempt to document the existence of forces beyond those of nature; on the contrary, it regards belief in such forces as illusory. Given the illusory character of such beliefs, the author seeks to pose and answer the Why are paranormal beliefs so common, what functions do they serve, and what "price" do we pay for such beliefs? In discussing this issue, Schumaker is able to cast new light upon a range of psychological issues that would appear to have nothing to do directly with notions of the paranormal, such as suggestibility and various kinds of "mental disorders." He also analyzes the implications of his interpretation for current forms of Western therapy.The broad-ranging concerns of this book, and the challenging nature of the thesis it develops, should bring it to the attention of a wide audience. Professionals in psychology, the study of religion, anthropology, and sociology will find this work of importance to them. But it should also interest everyone concerned with seeking to understand the human condition in an age of crisis.

Genres: Nonfiction

200 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1990

Reviews

[Andrew · Rating 1 out of 5]

The author took 165 mind-numbing pages to say something I can sum up in one sentence: We create religion to distract ourselves from the reality of our mortality, a diversion that endangers our existence as a species. What's more, he could have saved everyone time on the first page by just recommending us to Ernest Becker and Erich Fromm, both of whom he quotes extensively and both of whom said the same thing many times better. Finally, he doesn't even attempt to offer solutions or hope, but instead tells us over the last several pages how doomed we are as a species. A stupid, poorly-written, lazy, irresponsible book. It did have an interesting discussion on anorexia and western therapy. Did I mention that it's unscientific? I like Thornton Wilder and William Blake more than a lot of people, but that doesn't mean that one of their quotes corroborates your "theory." Also, someone should explain to Shumaker the difference between a hypothesis and a theory.

In conclusion, I did not like this book.

@pointblaek

[Ian C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read, but I couldn't disregard the fact that physiological aspects of mental illness wasn't discussed (or even considered by author?). Of course, that wouldn't have supported the premise of this book.