Occult Phenomena and After-images

Abstract

PROF. ANDRADE'S experiments recorded in NATURE of December 23, p. 843, on the apparent movements of cardboard hands, suitably illuminated by dim light, are interesting in connexion with a phenomenon recently recounted to me by a coroner of long experience. It appears that members of the jury, when brought in to view a corpse, frequently declare that they have seen the body, sometimes of long standing, breathing. No doubt an apparent up and down movement of the naked thorax is induced in a way similar to that recorded by Prof. Andrade. It is possible that murderers brought into the presence of the corpse of their victim exposed in a dim light must frequently have seen such movements of the hands especially as they will probably stare fixedly at the body. Any apparent movement will of course be intensified by suggestion. This may account for many old superstitions.