Chapter 1: Understanding Extrasensory Phenomena

What exactly are extrasensory fields? Are they scientifically valid or merely fabrications? Extrasensory perception (ESP) is a familiar concept, often linked to mystical practices or even dark magic. This association sparks heated debates between conventional scientists and proponents of alternative science, with some detractors labeling them as frauds.

ESP has become a focal point in popular media, raising questions about its authenticity. While sensory science often dismisses it as a trick, can we definitively state that something exists beyond our conventional five senses? If such a phenomenon does exist, it presents a significant challenge to sensory science's ability to fully explain the universe, opening up vast possibilities for both scientific inquiry and personal worldviews.

In my exploration of the universe, I strive to present information objectively, particularly on contentious topics. In discussing extrasensory events, I will reference Lynne McTaggart and her investigative work outlined in her book, The Field. Though she is not a scientist by training, her investigative journalism has provided valuable insights into the scientific exploration of ESP.

From the outset, I should clarify that my interpretations diverge from some of McTaggart's conclusions and current practices. Nonetheless, her investigation aligns with scientific endeavors, tracing the paths of traditional scientists who stumbled upon extrasensory fields through serendipitous discoveries.

The journey begins with the acknowledgment that within the metaphysical domains of telepathy, regression psychology, and out-of-body experiences, there exists enough evidence to warrant scientific exploration. Telepathy implies the transmission of information between individuals over vast distances. The scientific inquiry then becomes: is there a force that connects two people separated by great distances?

The astonishing scientific answer is affirmative! This connection is encapsulated in the concept of The Field. As McTaggart's research progressed, she encountered Hal Puthoff and the notion of the zero-point field—essentially, the scientific term for what we often refer to as a vacuum. Contrary to common belief, a vacuum is not devoid of substance. In quantum physics, atoms and quarks are viewed as packets of energy that oscillate within these fields, which are always in motion. This means that even regions of outer space, deemed vacuums, are brimming with these oscillating fields.

Grasping this concept can be challenging, even for seasoned scientists. However, the idea of oscillating fields permeating the universe is increasingly accepted within quantum physics.

The next logical step was to investigate whether information could be transmitted rapidly—possibly instantaneously—via these fields across varying distances. In quantum terminology, this phenomenon is known as entanglement, suggesting that these information-carrying fields are intricately intertwined. It’s akin to sending an SMS through electromagnetic radio waves to a mobile device.

McTaggart sought insights from Jacques Benveniste, a classical scientist who explored the memory of water. He faced skepticism from the scientific community after presenting his findings. Benveniste discovered that chemical substances possess unique energetic frequencies, allowing water to transmit biological information through its frequency. Subsequent experiments reaffirmed that water acts like an electromagnetic tape recorder, capable of storing frequencies and even transmitting biological data over phone lines. Other researchers have since replicated his experiments.

The implications of this research extend profoundly to human physiology. Given that our bodies are largely composed of water, what we traditionally perceive as chemical reactions may actually be electromagnetic communications between cells. This insight delves deep into the realms of quantum physics, oscillations, and fields that fundamentally constitute our bodies.

Chapter 2: The Brain and Extrasensory Perception

McTaggart further examined brain research, particularly how the brain processes and transmits information. She collaborated with Karl Pribham, who discovered that the brain is responsive to a limited range of frequencies (approximately 0.5 to 42 hertz). This indicates that biological and other forms of information are transmitted as energy waves of specific frequencies through quantum fields. The brain both receives and transmits this information. In certain instances, individuals may access information outside the typical frequency ranges, leading to what is defined as extrasensory perception—experiences that could be categorized as paranormal.

McTaggart is actively assisting individuals in exploring this potential. For those interested, a link to her book is provided, where she discusses concepts like the holographic brain, memory, consciousness, and their potential connection to The Field. However, this article will refrain from delving deeper into those topics. As noted in earlier chapters of both Inventory and Audit of the Universe, I maintain that the mind is distinct from the brain—a sentiment I share with McTaggart, albeit with further reservations.

The primary focus of this discourse is to illustrate that there is scientific evidence supporting the existence of extrasensory phenomena both within and beyond the confines of the brain and body. This subject remains highly controversial, as evidenced by the reception of Benveniste's findings. Remarkably, in 2019, three decades after his original assertions, his work gained acceptance within scientific circles, reflecting significant progress, although the field still grapples with the extrasensory and paranormal dimensions.

The term "extrasensory" encompasses two meanings: it refers to quantum phenomena gaining traction in scientific discussions and to spiritual phenomena lacking sensory or even quantum explanations. Miracles, such as the virgin birth (if they exist), would fall into this latter category, to be explored further in the concluding section of this chapter dedicated to religion.

Lynne McTaggart's extensive journalistic endeavors have unearthed foundational scientific evidence for certain extrasensory phenomena. Her discoveries lie at the core of quantum physics, with The Field representing one of many fields within Quantum Field Theory, where particles are seen as excited states (quanta) of their underlying fields—fields that are fundamentally more essential than the particles themselves.

Thus far, this framework stands as the most comprehensive scientific theory developed to elucidate the universe and the essence of life. It marks a new paradigm for those unfamiliar with these concepts. However, it’s crucial to discern genuine scientific inquiry from pseudoscience. As demonstrated through Benveniste's experiences, the distinction can be quite subtle.

This article is an excerpt from Chapter 5.11 of Audit of Humankind—a profound exploration into what it means to be human, extending beyond mere biology to the essence of our existence.