Psychokinesis - what is known about this phenomenon

Psychokinesis, also known as telekinesis, is the ability to move or influence objects with thought alone, without physical contact. Although it has been a topic of interest in paranormal researchers and science fiction for years, the scientific evidence for its existence remains controversial and inconclusive.

The history of psychokinesis research dates back to the 19th century, when spiritual mediums such as Eusapia Palladino claimed to be able to levitate objects during séances. Although many of these appearances were exposed as frauds, Palladino convinced some scientists, such as Pierre and Marie Curie, that she possessed supernatural abilities. In the 20th century, J. B. Rhine of Duke University pioneered a more scientific approach, investigating the influence of the mind on the results of dice rolls. Although his experiments yielded some results suggesting the possibility of mind-over-matter influence, critics charged that he was flawed in his methodologies, and other research teams were unable to replicate his results.

Modern research into psychokinesis focuses on “micro-PK,” or the manipulation of very small objects, such as influencing random number generators. Using advanced statistical tools, researchers can study subtle deviations from the norm that could indicate psychokinesis at work. These experiments, while sometimes yielding results that depart from chance, are still questionable due to the possibility of research errors and external influences.

Famous exponents of the psychokinesis phenomenon, such as Uri Geller, gained popularity in the 1970s with claims that they could bend spoons or repair watches with their minds. However, skeptics such as James Randi have repeatedly demonstrated that such demonstrations are the result of skillful illusionistic tricks rather than genuine psychic powers.

Although research into psychokinesis continues,  science has yet to find convincing evidence that mind can directly influence matter. Theoretical frameworks include speculations about influences from quantum mechanics, but these remain hypothetical. Psychological factors such as suggestion, expectation, and cognitive effects also play a key role in how people perceive psychokinesis phenomena.