Ghost Writing Book

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Lore & Background

The practice of ghost hunting has been heavily criticized for its dismissal of the scientific method. No scientific study has confirmed the existence of ghosts. Ghost hunting is considered a pseudoscience by the vast majority of educators, academics, science writers and skeptics. Science historian Brian Regal described ghost hunting as 'an unorganized exercise in futility'. Author John Potts writes that modern ghost hunting groups ignore the scientific method, instead following a form of 'techno-mysticism'. Despite its lack of acceptance in academic circles, the popularity of ghost-hunting reality TV shows has influenced a number of individuals to take up the pursuit. Participants report that ghost hunting allows them to enjoy the friendship of like-minded people and actively pursue their interest in the paranormal.

In Their Own Story

Paranormal research dates back to the nineteenth century, with organizations such as the Society for Psychical Research investigating spiritual matters. Psychic researcher Harry Price published his 'Confessions of a Ghost-Hunter' in 1936. Ghost hunting was popularized in the 2000s by television series such as 'Most Haunted' and 'Ghost Hunters', combined with the increasing availability of high-tech equipment. The Atlantic Paranormal Society reported a doubling in their membership in the late 2000s, attributing this to the television programs. One ghost-hunting group called 'A Midwest Haunting' based in Macomb, Illinois, reported that the number of people taking its tours had tripled, jumping from about 600 in 2006 to 1,800 in 2008. According to Jim Willis of 'Ghosts of Ohio', his group's membership had doubled, growing to 30 members since it was founded in 1999 and includes both true believers and total skeptics. Willis says his group is 'looking for answers, one way or another' and that skepticism is a prerequisite for those who desire to be 'taken seriously in this field.'

Reader's Guide

The Ghost Writing Book is a specialized piece of equipment used by paranormal investigators to communicate with spirits through written messages. Ghost hunters use a variety of electronic devices, including EMF meters, digital thermometers, both handheld and static digital video cameras, including thermographic and night vision cameras, night vision goggles, and digital audio recorders. Other more traditional techniques are also used, such as conducting interviews and researching the history of allegedly haunted sites. Dowsing and Ouija boards are other traditional techniques. Small businesses offering ghost-hunting equipment and paranormal investigation services increased in the early 2000s. Many offer electromagnetic field (EMF) meters, infrared motion sensors and devices billed as 'ghost detectors'.

Did You Know?

• No scientific study has confirmed the existence of ghosts.
• Ghost hunting is considered a pseudoscience by the vast majority of educators, academics, science writers and skeptics.
• Science historian Brian Regal described ghost hunting as 'an unorganized exercise in futility'.
• The Atlantic Paranormal Society reported a doubling in their membership in the late 2000s, attributing this to television programs.
• Author John Potts writes that modern ghost hunting groups ignore the scientific method, instead following a form of 'techno-mysticism'.