Sceptics
Sceptical critics have played an important role in the history of psychical research, challenging claims, methods and interpretations. This Skeptical Views subcategory presents articles on notable sceptics, examining their arguments and influence, and showing how opposition has helped to shape the development, self-understanding and public reception of the field.
James Alcock
Canadian psychology professor, amateur magician and career psi sceptic, member of the Executive Council for the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry.
Susan J Blackmore
British psychologist, consciousness researcher and psi sceptic, who has frequently appeared in the media promoting her views.
Antony Flew
British analytic philosopher known for his influential critiques of theism, postmortem survival and parapsychology.
Martin Gardner
American critic of parapsychology and paranormal claims (1914–2010), a founding member of the modern sceptical movement.
Susan Gerbic
American studio photographer who exposes what she believes to be pseudoscience through a special brand of 'guerilla skepticism'.
Trevor Hall
English chartered surveyor and amateur conjuror (1910–1991), author of books attacking deceased psychics and researchers.
Harry Houdini
The legendary stage magician (1874–1926) was hostile to Spiritualism and wrote books about his debunking of mediums.
Ray Hyman
American psychologist, amateur magician and leading sceptic, co-founder of the Committee for the Scientific Inquiry (CSI).
James Randi
Canadian-born conjurer (1928–2020) and public scourge of psychics, faith healers, parapsychologists and practitioners of alternative medicine.
Michael Shermer
Well-known American author, media personality and career sceptic, founder of the Skeptics Society and its magazine Skeptic.
Richard Wiseman
British psychology professor, media personality and bestselling author who is a high-profile critic of parapsychology.