
About this episode
The psychologist Chris French has spent decades studying paranormal claims and mysterious experiences, from seemingly impossible coincidences to paintings that purportedly predict the future. In this episode from April 2024, Ian Sample sits down with French to explore why so many of us believe in what he terms ‘weird shit’, and what we can learn from understanding why we are drawn to mysterious and mystic phenomena. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod
Get every episode summarized
Each time Science Weekly publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Science Weekly

Muons, massive waves and restored sight: the winners at the ‘Oscars of science’
Science Weekly
Apr 23, 202616:19failed

Mythos: are fears over new AI model panic or PR?
Science Weekly
Apr 21, 202615:50failed

The surprising value of boring chats, ‘super El Niño’ and Alzheimer’s evidence r...
Science Weekly
Apr 16, 202620:45failed

Helium: the invisible gas that powers AI, and why it’s in short supply
Science Weekly
Apr 14, 202616:19failed