'Investigating the Paranormal' is a course inspired by the intersection of Mesoamerican archaeology and a fascination with paranormal studies. The course examines how archaeology frequently appears in paranormal and conspiracy culture, revealing the complex relationships between science, magic, and myth. It starts by exploring premodern supernatural beliefs and demonstrates that the Enlightenment’s dismissal of the paranormal is not as clear-cut as it seems. The rising interest in paranormal phenomena—a product of media and cultural narratives—provides students insight into social science research capabilities.
The popularity of paranormal ideas made it clear that a course on paranormal culture would be an excellent way for students to get a taste of social science research.
The course begins with premodern ideas of magic, myth and metaphysics, showing that the narrative of 'Western' societies casting off supernatural thinking in favor of science is overly simplistic.
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