Why are We Obsessed with the Paranormal and Ghost Hunting?

Could it be that our own mortality frightens us? Even the most religious and spiritual persons have moments of doubt when it comes to the “other side.” Does watching “Ghost Hunters”, “Ghost Adventures” “Paranormal State” and the plethora of other programing having to do with hauntings give us strength in the face of our own death?

Researchers have found that the number one phobia people have is one that cannot be avoided; death. For some, the acceptance of nothingness is a reasonable explanation. For others, steeping themselves in the comfort of religiosity and spiritual awareness gives comfort. Then there are those who seek proof of an after-life.

For some, paranormal investigations are a thrill ride of suspense with long periods of boredom. If you have ever gone “ghost hunting” you know that the tiniest piece of evidence can make hours of downtime worth the effort.

Psychologically speaking, do we influence the “evidence” procured while looking for paranormal activity? Is it the desire to hear a disembodied voice that makes us “hear” something in our EVP’s? Do we find apparitions or shadow people in the wind? Or, as is the case with at least one paranormal group I know; do investigators stage activity in order to enhance and entice others to join their ventures?

I can only speak personally. No matter how spiritual I become, I do have those moments of doubt. They scare the hell out of me. The thought of nothingness for eternity is more powerful than any natural disaster or human calamity. Is it the ego that will not allow us to believe that there is nothing once our body shuts down? Does an orb, a whisper or the swing of a pendulum really relieve our fears? Perhaps.

I have been on several paranormal investigations. Some were successful, some a waste of precious sleep, and others were downright ridiculous. The latter category belongs to the groups that create mass hysteria by continually shouting out, “did you hear that?”, and “did you see that apparition?” “Oh my God! I’ve been hit.” I have encountered these phony groups. Generally, they are the owners or affiliated with the establishment being hunted.

As for me, paranormal investigation is a thrill ride, a source of comfort, and a way to deal with the fear of my own mortality. What is it to you, fellow ghostly investigators?