Ideomotor effect

The ideomotor effect is a psychological phenomenon wherein a subject makes motions unconsciously, especially while attributing the motion to a paranormal or supernatural force in which he believes. Unexplained phenomena such as applied kinesiology, automatic writing, dowsing, facilitated communication, and Ouija boards can be attributed to the ideomotor effect. The effect is extremely powerful and many subjects cannot be convinced that their actions are originating solely in their own minds.

Related Topics:
Psychological - Unconscious - Paranormal - Supernatural - Applied kinesiology - Automatic writing - Dowsing - Facilitated communication - Ouija board

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The term was first used by William B. Carpenter in 1852 to explain that muscular movement can be independent of conscious desires or emotions. Later scientific tests conducted by William James, Michel Chevreul, Michael Faraday, and Ray Hyman have all shown that phenomena attributed to paranormal forces are actually due to the ideomotor effect.

Related Topics:
William B. Carpenter - 1852 - Muscular - Conscious - William James - Michel Chevreul - Michael Faraday - Ray Hyman

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