A Collection of Strange Beliefs, Amusing Deceptions, and Dangerous Delusions

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E-ray

E-rays (Erdstrahlen in German, or Earth rays) are said to be evil rays emitted from below ground and detectable only by dowsers with paranormal powers. These evil rays are invisible and undetectable by ordinary people using ordinary scientific equipment. E-rays are blamed for everything from cancer in humans to wilting in plants. E-rays are especially bad for one's aura.

The belief in E-rays is especially popular in Germany where some people sleep with protective sheets of black plastic under their beds for protection. Specialists in E-ray detection practice a German variant of feng shui, advising individuals and government employees on safe furniture arrangement.

See also magical thinking.


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further reading

Randi, James. An Encyclopedia of Claims, Frauds, and Hoaxes of the Occult and Supernatural (N.Y.: St. Martin's Press, 1995).

Last updated 16-Dec-2013

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