Psychological Analysis of “Telepathy” with a Buddhist Perspective

Abstract

Telepathy is the transference of thoughts or feelings between individuals without using the five senses. The word ‘Telepathy’ is derived from the Greek words τηλε and πάθη. Tele (τηλε ) means "distant" and pathe (πάθη), means “ experience”. In Western Parapsychology this word was introduced by Fredric W. H. Myers in 1882. He was the founder of the Society for Psychical Research. He used the word ‘Telepathy” to replace the earlier expression ‘thought – transference’. A person who is capable of making use of Telepathy is said to be able to read the thoughts and store information in the brain of others. Telepathy is a common theme in modern fiction, with many superheroes and super villains having telepathic abilities. Such abilities include sensing the thoughts of others. However, modern scientists are reluctant to accept it as a true source of knowledge because there is no accepted mechanism. Also, there is no exact definition with regard to certain other related concepts such as ‘Clairvoyance’ and ‘Psychokinesis’. Western philosophers, psychologists and parapsychologists seem to be unaware of the fact that the Buddha, who lived 2556 years ago, made use of the concept of ‘Telepathy’ by the name of ‘Parachiththa Vijānana Gnāna’. In this paper, the researcher explains the nature of Telepathy, Telepathic ability and how it can be developed for practical purposes. Secondly, an attempt will be made to explain how Telepathic capabilities can be enhanced and used in practical purposes in the Buddhist way of life.