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Why do we not accept ESP as a psychological fact? Rhine…

“Why do we not accept ESP as a psychological fact? Rhine has offered enough evidence to have convinced us on almost any other issue... Personally, I do not accept ESP for a moment, because it does not make sense. My external criteria, both of physics and of physiology, say that ESP is not a fact…” quote by Donald Hebb
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““Why do we not accept ESP as a psychological fact? Rhine has offered enough evidence to have convinced us on almost any other issue... Personally, I do not accept ESP for a moment, because it does not make sense. My external criteria, both of physics and of physiology, say that ESP is not a fact despite the behavioral evidence that has been reported. I cannot see what other basis my colleagues have for rejecting it... Rhine may still turn out to be right, improbable as I think that is, and my own rejection of his view is - in the literal sense - prejudice.””

Donald Hebb

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

ESP lacks empirical support; accepting it without evidence reflects bias.

In simple terms: Extra‑sensory claims need proof.

Key Takeaway

Demand rigorous evidence.

Themes

skepticism science belief bias

Mood

skeptical thoughtful analytical

Type

Esp:1 Psi:1 Skepticism:1 Psychological Fact:0 Esp Fact:0 Esp Psychological:0 Accept Esp:0 Convinced Issue:0

When to use this quote

  • research reviews
  • academic discussions
  • media reporting

Key Concepts

epistemology psychology philosophy of science

Questions to Reflect On

  • What standards define a psychological fact?
  • How to balance open‑mindedness with skepticism?
A Different Perspective

Science may evolve, altering current conclusions.

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