Abstract: A vivid discussion revolves around the role of the human mind
in the quantum measurement process. While some authors argue that conscious observation is a necessary element to achieve the transition from
quantum to classical states during measurement (Wigner 1963), some go
even further and propose a more active influence of the human mind on
the probabilities of quantum measurement outcomes (e.g., Atmanspacher,
Römer, & Walach 2002, Penrose & Hameroff 2011). This proposition was
tested in micro-psychokinesis (micro-Pk) research in which intentional observer effects on quantum random number generators (RNGs) were investigated. In the studies presented here, we extended this line of research and
tested the impact of unconscious goals on micro-Pk. Our focus lies in cigarette addiction as an unconscious drive, and we hypothesized that regular
cigarette smokers would influence the outcome of a quantum RNG that
determined whether the participant was going to see a smoking-related
or a neutral picture. Study 1 revealed strong evidence for micro-Pk (BF10 =
66.06), supporting H1
. As expected, no deviation from chance was found
with non-smokers. Study 2, a pre-registered highly powered replication attempt, failed to reproduce this result and showed strong evidence for H0
(BF01 = 11.07). When the data from both studies are combined, a remarkable
change in effect across time (resembling a combination of appearance followed by decline) can be seen only in the smokers’ subsample. Appearance
and decline effects were absent in the non-smokers’ sample and in a simulation. Based on von Lucadou’s Model of Pragmatic Information, we suggest
that (micro-)Pk effects follow a systematic pattern comparable to a dampened harmonic oscillation. This concept may shed new light on past and
future Pk research.
Reiniero HERNANDEZ, Robert DAVIS, Russell SCALPONE, Rudolph SCHILD
Abstract: This study, conducted by the Dr. Edgar Mitchell Foundation for
Research into Extraterrestrial and Extraordinary Experiences (FREE), represents the fi rst comprehensive investigation on individuals (N = 3,256) who
have reported various forms of contact experience (CE) with a non-human
intelligent being (NHI) associated with or without an unidentifi ed aerial phenomenon (UAP). Our research methodology utilized two comprehensive
quantitative surveys totaling 554 questions administered to subjects with
reported non-hypnotic memory recall of their CE. This survey addressed a
diverse range of physical, psychological, perceptual, and paranormal aspects
of reported non-hypnotic–based recall of both physical and/or non-physical
interactions with an NHI. The results revealed complex reported CEs that involve both physical and non-physical events (psychological outcomes, nonordinary states of consciousness, and paranormal experiences). What may
be the most signifi cant aspect of the interim results is that approximately
70% (N = 2,279) of the study population claimed that their CE changed their
life in a “positive way.” In contrast, only 15–20% reported a “negative” impact
from their CE. Further, the majority of subjects did not report events typically associated with the traditionally held beliefs regarding the “alien-abduction” phenomena. That is, the results suggest that the reported CE with
an NHI is largely non-physical and can occur via telepathy, during an out-ofbody experience, being fl oated into a “matrix-like” reality, as well as through
physical interaction on board a craft. Consequently, the results suggest that
a non-physical (“contactee”) CE is distinctly diff erent from a physical (“abduction”) CE and should be studied as separate but interrelated anomalous events. In fact, the CE associated with a UAP is not the predominant form of
CE, and sighting a UAP is not necessarily associated with a CE. Consequently,
future studies should not focus exclusively on the analysis of UAP sightings
and traces alone which, based on decades of research, have not advanced
our understanding of the possible force that governs and regulates this
complex phenomenon. This is an important consideration since the FREE
study dispels the notion that contact with NHIs must always entail either a
physical abduction or a landed craft with beings interacting with humans.
This study may serve as a needed foundation for researchers to build upon
for validation purposes to better understand a unique and diverse range of
reported physical and non-physical type CEs with an NHI associated with or
without a UAP.
