Encyclopædia of Psychic Science

Abstract

THIS book, in spite of its some what provoking title, is a notable addition to the literature of psychical research. The author, who, it may be said, is clearly inclined to believe far more than the evidence suggests, has nevertheless succeeded in putting together a mass of material which includes many facts pointing to conclusions not in accordance with his own. The impartiality he displays in printing these data is highly commendable, and some good examples of it may be seen in the articles on Eldred and Duguid. In his preface Dr. Fodor stresses the difficulties of compiling an encyclopaedia of this kind, and states that he should have been assisted by an editorial committee. In this we are inclined to agree. Although he is fully capable of presenting his material, he is naturally not quite fully acquainted with it. Thus the article on “ectoplasm” (apart from a few amazing examples of credulity) is an excellent summary; whilst that on the poltergeist is very poor. In the latter article there are several cases from newspapers whereas there is no word of Dibbesdorf, of Stans, or of Oakland, California! Similarly, in the body of the text we find omissions for which it is not easy to account. Among these we would mention Farmer Riley, Abraham Cummings, Nicolai, Staudenmaier and the Gallery of Spirit Art. Although actual mistakes are readily excusable in a work of this size, it is curious that Dr. Fodor should make Patience Worth masculine, Mrs. ABbott and Lulu Hurst examples of “electric phenomena”; and Imoda an author of a book oil psychic photography.

Encyclopædia of Psychic Science.

By Dr. Nandor Fodor. Pp. Iv + 416. (London: Arthurs Press, Ltd., 1933.) 30s. net.