Est. 2004 · United Kingdom
A research and study society dedicated to the scholarly examination of unexplained phenomena — bringing critical analysis, historical enquiry, and intellectual rigour to one of the most contested fields of human experience.
About SPS
Operating at the boundary between the known and the unknown, SPS approaches the paranormal not as spectacle, but as a subject worthy of careful, disciplined scholarly study.
The Society of Paranormal Studies (SPS) is a UK-based independent research and study society dedicated to the serious academic examination of unexplained and anomalous phenomena. We are not an investigations organisation — we do not conduct field investigations, accept casework, or offer to visit locations. Our work is rooted in reading, critical analysis, discussion, and the careful evaluation of evidence drawn from psychology, history, folklore, and the history of science.
Founded in 2004 and formally revived in 2025, SPS has developed over two decades into a dedicated research and study society. The revival marked a deliberate shift in focus — away from field-based activity and towards rigorous academic study, critical analysis, and the thoughtful examination of existing evidence and literature.
SPS brings together researchers, academics, students, and informed enthusiasts who share a commitment to studying anomalous phenomena rigorously and honestly. Our activities include structured reading groups and journal clubs, critical review of historical and contemporary case literature, discussion of methodology in psychical research, and the production of written resources exploring the full range of evidence — sceptical and open-minded alike. All conclusions are drawn cautiously and reported honestly.
Mission & Values
SPS exists to advance the scholarly study of unexplained phenomena through critical analysis, rigorous enquiry, and ethical practice — treating both evidence and human experience with equal seriousness.
We prioritise evidence over assumption and transparency over spectacle. Every conclusion is earned through careful study, not presumption or wishful thinking.
We treat witnesses, source material, and historical contexts with care and sensitivity — recognising that behind every reported experience there are real people and real places.
We recognise the emotional and psychological weight that unexplained experiences can carry, and we engage with that material accordingly — thoughtfully and without exploitation.
We remain open to possibilities while staying grounded in method and critical thinking. Mystery and rigorous enquiry can — and should — coexist.
Code of Ethics
SPS operates under a clear ethical framework designed to protect individuals, uphold the integrity of our research, and ensure that our study of the paranormal is conducted responsibly. We do not claim authority over belief, nor do we present speculation as fact.
Engaging only with published material, documented case literature, and sources that meet basic standards of academic credibility and provenance
Treating all reported experiences and witness accounts with respect, confidentiality, and sensitivity
Avoiding sensationalism, misrepresentation, or the encouragement of unfounded belief
Making no claims about the definitive nature or cause of reported phenomena
Acknowledging conventional, psychological, and environmental explanations openly and honestly
Handling all member data and research records responsibly and in line with UK GDPR regulations
Respecting the historical, cultural, and personal significance of all cases and locations discussed in our study
Research Methodology
SPS research follows a structured, evidence-led process grounded in scholarship and critical analysis. Careful, honest evaluation of sources is valued above dramatic conclusions.
Areas of study are chosen for their scholarly merit, historical significance, or relevance to ongoing debates in anomalous phenomena research. We consider the quality of available evidence and the range of perspectives — both sceptical and supportive — before beginning structured study.
Historical records, academic papers, case studies, and contemporary research are gathered and assessed. Understanding the full body of existing knowledge — including its limitations and biases — is essential before drawing any conclusions about a subject.
Members engage with the material collaboratively through reading groups, structured discussions, and debate. Multiple interpretations are considered, conventional explanations are rigorously examined, and no single viewpoint is treated as authoritative without scrutiny.
Evidence is reviewed with emphasis on consistency, reliability, and the systematic consideration of alternative explanations. Psychological, environmental, historical, and cultural factors are all taken into account before any assessment is reached.
Findings and discussions are documented honestly. Outcomes may be explained, unexplained, or inconclusive — all are considered valid results of serious study. Written resources are produced for the membership and, where appropriate, made available to the wider public through our Knowledge Base.