Occultism and Common-Sense

"Occultism and Common-Sense" by Beckles Willson is a late 19th-century work that examines purported supernatural happenings with a critical and rational lens. It grapples with the rising public fascination with occultism against the skepticism of the scientific community. The author begins with a personal account of approaching the occult with an open mind, quickly meeting resistance from those in scientific fields. For example, the book discusses stories of psychic experiences, like a man who envisioned his mother's death at the exact time it occurred, highlighting the conflict between everyday explanations and the emerging study of psychic phenomena. The book promises to explore this tension, intending to sift through stories and find solid ground through careful study, seeking to bridge the gap between the extraordinary and logical thought.