Research source

There are several theories as to the nature of this subterranean stratum of our being--this hidden self--each…

Date of account: Published 1921
Source: The Problems of Psychical Research Experiments and Theories in the Realm of the Supernormal
Reference: The Problems of Psychical Research Experiments and Theories in the Realm of the Supernormal · selected passage 119
Rights: public_domain
Language: English
Record updated: 2026-08-24

Record summary

There are several theories as to the nature of this subterranean stratum of our being--this hidden self--each of which finds its champion in the modern psychological schools

Published source text

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Source passage

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There are several theories as to the nature of this subterranean stratum of our being--this hidden self--each of which finds its champion in the modern psychological schools. First, there is the theory that it consists merely in the mechanical workings of the brain--a purely physiological theory, which makes the subconscious mind synonymous with certain brain activities--much the same as a series of complex reactions. It is well known that there is a brain-change corresponding to every thought we think; and the nature of the connection between the two has been one of the most debated points in metaphysics, and is one which, if we thoroughly understood it, would doubtless solve in a great measure the nature of life and of consciousness. Without going into this very complex question, however, there remains the undoubted _fact_ of the connection; the thought, which is known by us in consciousness; and the brain-change, which has been verified by ingenious mechanical and electrical instruments, and the effects of which we behold in the chemical changes in the brain-substance itself after severe thinking.

Historical context

Contextual commentary · mention only

This comes from historical psychical research. Methods, witness handling and standards of evidence differ from present-day research and should be assessed from the cited passage and edition.

Modern context

Contextual commentary · mention only

The passage can support a history of claims and recurring descriptions. It does not establish a paranormal mechanism, and competing psychological, social and physical explanations remain relevant.

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