A third reason scientists are reluctant to examine paranormal phenomena is that they appear to contradict known physical laws. What is the point of studying the impossible? Only a fool would waste his time. The problem of data in conflict with existing theory cannot be overstated. Arthur Eddington once said you should never believe any experiment until it has been confirmed by theory, but this humorous view has a reality that cannot be discounted.
Scientists often avoid investigating paranormal phenomena because such events seem to violate established physical laws. This raises the question of why one would dedicate time to study what appears to be impossible. The conflict between new data and established theories presents a significant challenge in scientific inquiry.
Arthur Eddington once humorously remarked that experimental results should not be trusted until they are supported by theoretical frameworks. This perspective highlights the issue: when data contradicts existing explanations, it creates a daunting barrier for researchers, discouraging them from pursuing investigations into the paranormal.
