How The Barnum Effect Tricks Us Into Believing The Supernatural

The Barnum Effect is a psychological phenomenon where people believe vague, general statements about personality or behaviour apply specifically to them, despite those statements being broad enough to apply to almost anyone. It's like reading your horoscope and thinking it perfectly describes you, when in reality it could easily describe most other people as well.

It's named after the famous American showman P.T. Barnum, who was known for his expertise in promoting and popularising various forms of entertainment, earning him the nickname "the Greatest Showman." He showcased various exhibitions, often blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural. Although sceptical of such things, Barnum capitalised on the public's fascination with the strange, and his understanding of human psychology and belief is why the Barnum Effect is named after him.

The effect is common in tarot, palm reading, mediumship, and even personality tests, where the statements are carefully crafted to appear personalised. But perhaps its most prevalent use is in astrology. Horoscopes in newspapers and online often use Barnum statements to give broad descriptions of personality traits and predictions that can feel specific to the reader. For example, a horoscope might say, "You have a need for others to like and admire you, but you can also be critical of yourself." This statement can resonate with a wide range of people, as it touches on common human traits.

Similarly, psychics and mediums frequently use Barnum statements when claiming to convey messages from spirits, often providing general insights that can resonate with many people. A medium might say something like, "I'm sensing a strong presence connected to you, someone who has passed on but still watches over you. This person wants you to know they understand the challenges you've faced recently and are sending you strength to overcome them." Again, the statement is general enough that most people could find a connection to a loved one who has passed away and may have faced challenges recently. The vagueness allows listeners to fill in the details themselves, making it feel personal. Fortune tellers, such as those who use tarot cards or palm reading, also use Barnum statements when giving out their predictions or advice.

A good Barnum statement has certain qualities that make it widely applicable and seemingly personalised to many people. First and foremost, the statement must be general enough to apply to a broad range of people without being overly specific. For instance, "You sometimes feel uncertain about your decisions." The statement becomes even stronger when both sides of a trait or behaviour are referenced, allowing the listener to identify with one or both. For example, "You enjoy socialising, but you also value your alone time."

Barnum statements often contain positive qualities that people like to believe about themselves. A phrase like "You have a great capacity to love" appeals to people's desire for self-validation. It may also touch on emotions, desires, or experiences common to most people, such as "You have experienced challenges that have made you stronger." The language used is open to interpretation, letting individuals fill in the details themselves. For example, "A significant change is coming your way."

The effect highlights the importance of critical thinking in the paranormal field. It's important to remember that just because a statement feels accurate or personal, it doesn't necessarily mean it has a supernatural origin. It might just be the Barnum Effect in action.