The Conscious Universe : The scientific Truth of Psychic Phenomena

Rating:
Summary: A paradigm-shifting book
Review: This book is a delight to read for anyone who knows that reality isn't what it seems to be... or who is willing to take a very honest look at the nature of reality in all its wildest glory. Radin presents an excellent scientific case for the truth of psychic phenomena, using statistics to examine "psi" -- the phenomenon that includes the three broad categories of anomalous phenomenon of psychokinesis (mind-matter interaction), extra-sensory perception, and survival after bodily death. Radin excels at presenting memorable stories along with his clear, concise, and comprehensible statistics in such a way that one feels compelled to either accept or reject his findings and the implications they suggest. This is an excellent book for reading when you're ready to do your own thinking... and change the way you view the world.

Rating:
Summary: treat it as fiction
Review: This is an interesting book, in that it might encourage the reader to think about things outside of the one's traditional framework. However, if you take the time to dig up the articles that Radin uses as "proof", you will find that some of them are all but incoherent. I tracked down the authoring scientist behind some of the papers regarding time, and he informed me that his results were due to chance and not replicable (and also that he is no longer a scientist). It makes me wonder if Radin actually read the articles before disseminating incorrect information to the public. I realize that scientists have to eat too, but Radin should never have sold a book at the expense of truth. Also, be careful with the graphs, which are often organized in a deceptive way. I can verify that some of the psychokinesis stuff is legit, but I would advise anyone who reads this book to a) take it as fiction, b) find the original articles, and c) try to replicate the experiments yourself. It sets us all back to have people spreading false information. Peace.

Rating:
Summary: One of the best books currently in print on ESP
Review: This really is a wonderful book, which explains what parapsychologists think about ESP in simple, easy to understand terms. Although originally published in 1997, "The Conscious Universe" still remains one of the best summaries of current ESP research available in print. Furthermore, Dean's knowledge, intelligence, experience, and fine wit (don't miss the preface) shine through the pages making it an incredibly enjoyable read. I cannot recommend the book enough.