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Unexplained Mysteries Discussion Forums > Unexplained Mysteries > Paranormal Books, TV & Media
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_hAiLO_
You guys keep telling me, 'Its an Illusion', 'Its impossible', 'Its just a trick'. And I do understand that a magician cannot reveal his secrets as you pointed out Rayce. But as far as you guys trying to tell me the truth, your telling me that what ever paranormal Criss Angel performs, he is a total fake.

Yes, your giving me theories that the volunteers are not actually volunteers, but very good actors just playing along. A very interesting theory, but that still doesn't explain how the 'Levitation' is fake. The girl still levitated from the ground and was afloat in mid air, I have never heard of an acting trick that can go as far.

Another interesting theory, Criss Angel makes our minds perceive that he is levitating, but he really isn't. Does that mean your promoting another metaphysical feat? That magician can alter our minds from a camera's point of view? If he really isn't levitating and the illusion is just tricking our minds...in my opinion, that is very illogical.

Whatever is recorded on camera is recorded on camera. Correct me if i'm wrong, but an illusion doesn't have to do with the alteration of film so that Criss Angel looks like hes levitating. Also correct me if i'm wrong, an illusion doesn't have to do with the placing of mirrors? I didn't see mirrors on the street (not that it would have effect, there is a very large crowd around the performance.

What i'm trying to say that, you guys are telling me that his performances are only illusions, which gives me the notion that your proclaiming it as false occurences. I see things on camera and I think its true, I wanna know why you guys think its false sad.gif
_hAiLO_
I think what he does is true as well. But some people think what Cirss Angel is doing is just a big false occurence sad.gif

http://www.unexplained-mysteries.com/forum...23&#entry758023

Anyone here got an explanation as to how he could be faking his illusions?
The Raven
QUOTE(_hAiLO_ @ Jul 26 2005, 09:33 AM)
QUOTE(openmind1963 @ Jul 26 2005, 05:20 AM)
if he can levitate,it would break the laws of gravity,and he'd levitate thru the atmosphere into space would'nt he?
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I don't know, it showed that he can only levitate so much I guess. I'm not too sure about the laws of gravity, or the supposed 'laws' of levitation. But whatever was caught in film, string illusion or whatever, I'd like to know how it happened and how someone can say its fake hmm.gif .

I'm probably just going to google the whole thing.
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This is an interesting topic, and judging by the pictures, he either knows how to levitate or is a damn good illusionist.

Under the assumption that this is illusion [Always start out skeptical] and that since he does this for a living, has practiced his whole life as an illusionist. If I was that determined and knew I could make money off of it, I could find out how to make the illusion of levitation too.

If he is the real thing, well, then he is a gifted individual. He may very well be the real thing. w00t.gif

And to answer the question of floating in space, no, you would not, since it seems levitation is classified as simply holding still in the air, defying about every law we know.

QUOTE
Another interesting theory, Criss Angel makes our minds perceive that he is levitating, but he really isn't. Does that mean your promoting another metaphysical feat? That magician can alter our minds from a camera's point of view? If he really isn't levitating and the illusion is just tricking our minds...in my opinion, that is very illogical.

Actually David Blaine explained most of one of his tricks on one of his shows, how he could trick someone into believing something was actually happened. He stole a lady's watch without her knowing [While in conversation with her] then brought her to a jewelry store window where the watch was sitting. He knew it would be there and had the real one in his pocket. Only then did she realize it was missing. He then stuck a piece of newspaper to the window, put his hand through the glass, nabbed the watch, and gave it to her. He didn't explain how he did that, but he did show how it's easy to fool someone.
FireFrog
QUOTE
You guys keep telling me, 'Its an Illusion', 'Its impossible', 'Its just a trick'. And I do understand that a magician cannot reveal his secrets as you pointed out Rayce. But as far as you guys trying to tell me the truth, your telling me that what ever paranormal Criss Angel performs, he is a total fake.


There is nothing paranormal about Criss Angel... he is a self proclaimed illusionist.

il·lu·sion·ist
3. A magician or ventriloquist.
4. Someone who performs magic tricks to amuse an audience

QUOTE
Yes, your giving me theories that the volunteers are not actually volunteers, but very good actors just playing along. A very interesting theory, but that still doesn't explain how the 'Levitation' is fake. The girl still levitated from the ground and was afloat in mid air, I have never heard of an acting trick that can go as far.


Better magicians than Criss Angel have caused people to levitate before... everybody knows that this is just a trick. It isn't a theory, it is fact. He is a magician. He does these illusions for a living - if people knew how he did them, the trick would no longer be impressive and people wouldn't pay to see them. I assure you, once again, there is nothing paranormal about this.

QUOTE
Another interesting theory, Criss Angel makes our minds perceive that he is levitating, but he really isn't. Does that mean your promoting another metaphysical feat? That magician can alter our minds from a camera's point of view? If he really isn't levitating and the illusion is just tricking our minds...in my opinion, that is very illogical.


No, this isn't another metaphysical feat. It is simply trickery of the mind, like your common optical illusion.

il·lu·sion
1.
1. An erroneous perception of reality.
2. An erroneous concept or belief.
2. The condition of being deceived by a false perception or belief.
3. Something, such as a fantastic plan or desire, that causes an erroneous belief or perception.

You'll also notice that on a Criss Angel television spot, the following message: "The stunts and illusions performed on this program were designed and tested by Criss Angel, a highly-trained professional." Pay particular attention to the words 'stunts and illusions' as well as 'highly-trained professional'.

QUOTE
Whatever is recorded on camera is recorded on camera. Correct me if i'm wrong, but an illusion doesn't have to do with the alteration of film so that Criss Angel looks like hes levitating. Also correct me if i'm wrong, an illusion doesn't have to do with the placing of mirrors? I didn't see mirrors on the street (not that it would have effect, there is a very large crowd around the performance.


An illusion would not involve editing film, but it could very well involve mirrors, and some great illusions have been known to. In fact, that is how David Copperfield managed to make a train dissapear into thin air - via mirrors. There was a massive crowd for the event and people were none the wiser until years later.

The following is an image of Criss Angel showing a basic form of his levitation illusion:

user posted image

At first glance, it may appear as though he is levitating, but you can actually see that he has subtly managed to wrap his left leg around one of the poles on a nearby gate in such a manner that it is virtually unnoticeable. Albeit, an amateurish trick, it is still quite impressive and shows you how the eye can play tricks on you. Nothing paranormal - just illusions and trickery.

QUOTE
What I'm trying to say that, you guys are telling me that his performances are only illusions, which gives me the notion that your proclaiming it as false occurences. I see things on camera and I think its true, I wanna know why you guys think its false sad.gif


These are not false occurances... but they are by no means paranormal or psychic either. They are merely tricks. Well performed tricks by a highly-trained professional for entertainment purposes. Don't be foolish as to think otherwise. wink2.gif
Dr1273
He was really good but I would be more impressed if it were being done right in front of my face.
JayeBrady
Criss Angel himself has said that half of what he does is total illusion, and the other half is completely real with no trick to it whatsoever, and it's up to his audience to decide which they believe is which.

Speaking for myself, I completely believe he is able to manipulate the energy around physical objects, thus making them move. In last nights episode, he is very clearly moving a frisbee around and throwing it without touching it. And I would love to know how I'm not REALLY seeing that frisbee...and how he's not REALLY moving it...because clearly, he is.

I have some skepticism about his own levitating...but when he levitated the girl in the park, the cameraman did very well in getting all angles of things, showing the whole length of the body, people all around them were freaking out and going "WTF?!"...like another poster here said, if this man is making me see things I'm not really seeing through the camera, that's a pretty impressive magic of another kind. He even said before he did it "this isn't a trick, pretty much what you see is what you get"...I mean they're in the middle of a park, there's no stage, no table, no mirrors, nothing.

What I find frustrating is that people in general who don't believe this stuff are always saying "give us proof, get a camera!" and then when someone DOES actually put forth some pretty convincing evidence..."it's just an illusion". Call me naive if you want, but "it's just an illusion" is way too easy for me. Same thing goes for "it's just in your head" to people who see spirits. How EASY is it to just dismiss such things based on that? It prevents any further thinking, that's for sure.

colorless
Did anyone see him make the tarantula appear in the woman's pocket? That makes me never want to meet him. Or get anywhere near him.
_hAiLO_
An interesting read FireFrog, I see where your going. I guess magicians have they're own way of doing these so-called 'illogical' stunts.

The picture you posted however, wouldn't the audience have to see his leg squirming to climb that pole with just his legs? When he levitates, he goes up into the air without moving a muscle. Except just to put his arms up.

And I pretty much agree with you, JayeBrady. Most of Criss Angels stunts have had the camera encompass the whole performance and almost nothing was found that would have aided the performer. But still, he is an illusionist and a magician...and as one, we may never know his secret.

Its still quite interesting and worth my spectation to watch though dontgetit.gif .
CypherZero
w00t.gif lmao that guy is so funny all he does is float around and act weird lol he reminds me of prince lol. His tricks suck sometimes too "Pick a card any card" then when they go to grab a card he floats away lmao!
maryjo1975
QUOTE(_hAiLO_ @ Jul 28 2005, 02:02 AM)
I think what he does is true as well. But some people think what Cirss Angel is doing is just a big false occurence sad.gif

http://www.unexplained-mysteries.com/forum...23&#entry758023

Anyone here got an explanation as to how he could be faking his illusions?
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Well, having grown up in church all my life I can tell you what I was always lead to believe. He is very VERY good at fooling everyone....or it is demonic.

When I was a kid it was David Copperfield. And "oh...he is possessed by demons and that is how he does it!"

Then came along Blaine who put Copperfield to shame! And now there is Chriss. Personally, I dont know. I dont get bad vibes really from Chriss like I had from Blaine. Now that I put much stock in my own "vibes". LOL!! I dont go to church so much anymore and the one that I do go to doesnt really waste their time with magicians. But I am sure if I was back in those churches I would be hearing about it. Demon possessed!!! LOL!!!
sub_x0ne
Supposedly Jesus turned water into wine...well Criss Angel turned water into beer in his last episode. Criss Wins! Beer is better than wine. Why don't people start calling him the son of God? It's because people were alot more gullible 2000 years ago. Or even just 200 years ago or less. O_o
rayce
QUOTE(_hAiLO_ @ Jul 28 2005, 07:16 PM)
The picture you posted however, wouldn't the audience have to see his leg squirming to climb that pole with just his legs? When he levitates, he goes up into the air without moving a muscle. Except just to put his arms up.

And I pretty much agree with you, JayeBrady. Most of Criss Angels stunts have had the camera encompass the whole performance and almost nothing was found that would have aided the performer. But still, he is an illusionist and a magician...and as one, we may never know his secret.

Its still quite interesting and worth my spectation to watch though dontgetit.gif .
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Actually, the first thing a magician learns is slight of hand and distraction. Though distraction is not the word I am looking for. When you watched him levitate you probably noticed how he is being very dramatic and breathing heavily, moving his arms and chest around to draw attention away from his feet. You know how many hours he probably practices a day just to do this stuff. It is incredible.

I agree with you that, no matter what, it is definately interesting to watch and well worth the time to do so.

I think I missed an episode though and I'm really bummed now!
BurnSide
I don't think we need two Crisis Angel: Mind Freak topics.

Merged.
Faeden
Angel is an illusionist, there is nothing paranormal about him he is a magic entertainer, he is very clever, but he has no supernatural powers.
maryjo1975
I actually hope he DOESNT have supernatural powers. That would be creepy. LOL! But either way, I dont care. He is really cool! LOL!!!
_hAiLO_
QUOTE(rayce @ Jul 28 2005, 01:40 PM)
Actually, the first thing a magician learns is slight of hand and distraction. Though distraction is not the word I am looking for. When you watched him levitate you probably noticed how he is being very dramatic and breathing heavily, moving his arms and chest around to draw attention away from his feet. You know how many hours he probably practices a day just to do this stuff. It is incredible.
I don't want to sound hard headed or anything, but i'm still not convinced. I would look at him, but mainly at his feet though. He levitated quite a few times on the show and many times, a pole wasn't present. The TV screen I saw his show was very small, so I could see his whole body...and he just lifts.

I really don't know a lot about illusions, but its hard to form an opinion when logic enters the equation. I guess this is going to be quite an unexplained mystery laugh.gif
QUOTE
I agree with you that, no matter what, it is definately interesting to watch and well worth the time to do so.

I think I missed an episode though and I'm really bummed now!
[right][snapback]759690[/snapback][/right]

I think they will show re-runs...and if you watch the show (I don't know if you have), you might see what I see.

QUOTE
Angel is an illusionist, there is nothing paranormal about him he is a magic entertainer, he is very clever, but he has no supernatural powers.

What if I said 'Magic' is paranormal? laugh.gif

No offence, but I think he is somewhat of a paranormal freak...maybe i'll change my mind when I understand the ways of the 'Illusion'.
pinoyboy13
criss angel is cool heres a video of him levatating sum 1 http://www.crissangel.com/video2.html#
and this one were he transports from under a barel
http://www.crissangel.com/video2.html#
_hAiLO_
Wether you think he's fake or for real, I found TV listings for those who want to see him:

http://www.aetv.com/aesearch/search.do?key...s=criss%20angel

QUOTE(pinoyboy13 @ Jul 28 2005, 08:14 PM)
criss angel is cool heres a video of him levatating sum 1 http://www.crissangel.com/video2.html#
and this one were he transports from under a barel
http://www.crissangel.com/video2.html#
[right][snapback]760320[/snapback][/right]

Thanks for the links thumbsup.gif . I saw the levitation again...and to me, its still phenomenal.
Faeden
QUOTE
No offence, but I think he is somewhat of a paranormal freak...maybe i'll change my mind when I understand the ways of the 'Illusion'.


So what are you saying ? Because he is a "Paranormal freak" that what he does on his show is paranormal ? Sorry if i miss read you.

"A lot of what I do is completely real. There are no tricks. It really is the Mind, Body, and Spirit connection.
And a lot of what I do is an illusion. It's up to you to determine what is real and what is...illusion." Criss Angel......

I know what he is referring to when he says mind body and spirit, do you?....

All the best
Faeden
maryjo1975
[quote=Faeden,Jul 30 2005, 08:02 PM]
[quote]

I know what he is referring to when he says mind body and spirit, do you?....

All the best
Faeden
[right][snapback]763578[/snapback][/right]
[/quote]


Well, I wont be ashamed. I don't have a clue. LOL! I know NOTHING about this sort of stuff but if you are willing to share what you know I would be willing to listen. You can pm me if you would rather. I know this post wasn't to me but you got my attention! original.gif
FireFrog
*sigh*

This is pointless. He's a freakin' magician and you all think he has some sort of paranormal abilities because you don't know how he does his tricks? That's like a child believing their father when they use the old 'Got your nose!' trick.
Faeden
Hi MaryJo

Criss Angel uses the mind body and spirit, just as a Buddhist would, its not necessarily paranormal, its more deep focus and concentration, and dedicated training and practice. He is an illusionist, being he creates illusions, it also might be interesting to know that he is also a rock star, actor, and other things, he is a dedicated showman and entertainer, need I say more, he does not levitate, or walk up walls no.gif he is a very clever entertainer, but he is no occultist, and even the best occultists in the world can not levitate, and walk up walls, even Aleister Crowley "The great beast" could not do that hmm.gif

Think about his name "Criss Angel" a very obviously chosen name if ever I heard one, in order to sound magical Chis=Christ Angel= well you do not need me to tell you how that would be considered mystical. He has also chosen the Goth look to look more like he is into dark magical things, he is playing a part.

Saying that Criss actually walks up walls and floats about, is like saying I am a witch and I can fly around on broomsticks. The most he does that might be able to be considered paranormal is maybe meditation, and deep focus, which can cause people to do things that the normal everyday person cant do, your be surprised what the human mind if capable of, but what he does of no more paranormal that what the Buddhists monks do, which is not levitation.

All the best
Faeden
maryjo1975
QUOTE(Faeden @ Jul 31 2005, 08:46 AM)
Hi MaryJo

Criss Angel uses the  mind body and spirit, just as a Buddhist would, its not necessarily paranormal, its more deep focus and concentration, and dedicated training and practice. He is an illusionist, being he creates illusions, it also might be interesting to know that he is also a rock star, actor, and other things, he is a dedicated showman and entertainer, need I say more, he does not levitate, or walk up walls  no.gif he is a very clever entertainer, but he is no occultist, and even the best occultists in the world can not levitate, and walk up walls, even Aleister Crowley "The great beast" could not do that  hmm.gif

Think about his name "Criss Angel" a very obviously chosen name if ever I heard one, in order to sound magical Chis=Christ Angel= well you do not need me to tell you how that would be considered mystical. He has also chosen the Goth look to look more like he is into dark magical things, he is playing a part.

Saying that Criss actually walks up walls and floats about, is like saying I am a witch and I can fly around on broomsticks. The most he does that might be able to be considered paranormal is maybe meditation, and deep focus, which can cause people to do things that the normal everyday person cant do, your be surprised what the human mind if capable of, but what he does of no more paranormal that what the Buddhists monks do, which is not levitation.

All the best
Faeden
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Thanks for explaining that. I appreciate it. Like I said before, I HOPE he doesnt have any "special" powers! LOL! Because that would be creepy. I like him though. He is cool. But it is good to know he is just a magician.

Thanks for taking the time to respond to me. original.gif
maryjo1975
QUOTE(FireFrog @ Jul 31 2005, 06:32 AM)
*sigh*

This is pointless. He's a freakin' magician and you all think he has some sort of paranormal abilities because you don't know how he does his tricks? That's like a child believing their father when they use the old 'Got your nose!' trick.
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"you all" is pretty BROAD dont you think? Not every single, or even most, of the post on this thread is saying he is real.

Some people are looking and waiting for someone who can do those things for real.

Some people want to avoid someone like that at all costs.

That is why people wonder, and ask questions, and hope.

They arent believing he is real because they cant explain how he does something. Those that do believe he is real believe because they want to. Those of us that dont...have to have it proved to us, beyond a shadow of a doubt that he IS real before we will belive it. And even THAT it is debatable!

But it was just rude, in my opinion, to judge everyone who posted in this thread like that.
sub_x0ne
QUOTE(maryjo1975 @ Jul 31 2005, 02:15 PM)
QUOTE(FireFrog @ Jul 31 2005, 06:32 AM)
*sigh*

This is pointless. He's a freakin' magician and you all think he has some sort of paranormal abilities because you don't know how he does his tricks? That's like a child believing their father when they use the old 'Got your nose!' trick.
[right][snapback]764112[/snapback][/right]



"you all" is pretty BROAD dont you think? Not every single, or even most, of the post on this thread is saying he is real.

Some people are looking and waiting for someone who can do those things for real.

Some people want to avoid someone like that at all costs.

That is why people wonder, and ask questions, and hope.

They arent believing he is real because they cant explain how he does something. Those that do believe he is real believe because they want to. Those of us that dont...have to have it proved to us, beyond a shadow of a doubt that he IS real before we will belive it. And even THAT it is debatable!

But it was just rude, in my opinion, to judge everyone who posted in this thread like that.
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Agreed. I'd like to chose where he'd do his street magic, and chose the audience so I could be sure there was nothin' funky goin' down.
FireFrog
QUOTE
But it was just rude, in my opinion, to judge everyone who posted in this thread like that.


I apologise. The comment was relating more to the people involved in the Metaphysics section before this topic became merged, or more specifically, Hailo.
_hAiLO_
QUOTE(FireFrog @ Aug 1 2005, 02:28 AM)
QUOTE
But it was just rude, in my opinion, to judge everyone who posted in this thread like that.


I apologise. The comment was relating more to the people involved in the Metaphysics section before this topic became merged, or more specifically, Hailo.
[right][snapback]765631[/snapback][/right]

I'm sorry if I'm getting on your last nerve, but i'm just believing and stating what my opinions say.

I thank Faeden for a very reasonable, and very explanatory explanation. We all learn here, I have just learned from Faeden, and to come closer to what an illusion really is. I'm trying to absorb what you guys are saying, that his stunts are merely illusions. I can let levitation slip away and i'll think about mirrors for a while.

But did any of you see when he performed his Voodoo Doll tricks? He poked the voodoo doll, and the people reacted like they were the actual doll.

I'm sorry to bring anymore contradictions, or anymore situations...but the fact that every single thing he did that was percieved through the, lets say 'gullible' eye, are faked is kinda extreme...
maryjo1975
Ok. This is what I want to know. On his show he does one BIG trick. Like the barrel, the bed of nails with the SUV, ect.

Thos things I dont believe for a second is anything but good, old fashioned, magic. Nothing paranormal. YOu can see how he does the trick and what goes into it.

But what I dont get is the smaller tricks he does during the rest of the show.

Like turning water into beer.

Making the pen in the glass move and the breaking the glass.

Swallowing sewing needles and thread and then pulling it out of his belly button.

Throwing the deck of cards against the bus window and the one that the girl signed being on the OUTSIDE of the bus.

The voodoo doll.

The levitating.

This is the stuff that confuses me. LOL! HOW did the card get on the outside of the bus??

HOW did the glass break?

I wont go back over the rest of them. You get my point. LOL!

I am sure there must be a way he does these things....but I cant figure it out.

Anyone have any ideas?
_hAiLO_
A way to do these things? According to logic, and probably without rigs, these stunts are gauranteed impossible! And with a camera crew being there to witness it, and sometimes take footage of the entire suroundings (all 360 degrees), sometimes there aren't any rigs.

I have no idea how he does it. But though the repeatedly denied possibility of a paranormality, I don't see how impossibility becomes mere TV Show stunts...

I would really want a skeptic to come forward to help explain in deeper that these are only illusions...and possibly how these illusions were performed.
maryjo1975
QUOTE(_hAiLO_ @ Aug 3 2005, 01:57 AM)
A way to do these things? According to logic, and probably without rigs, these stunts are gauranteed impossible! And with a camera crew being there to witness it, and sometimes take footage of the entire suroundings (all 360 degrees), sometimes there aren't any rigs.

I have no idea how he does it. But though the repeatedly denied possibility of a paranormality, I don't see how impossibility becomes mere TV Show stunts...

I would really want a skeptic to come forward to help explain in deeper that these are only illusions...and possibly how these illusions were performed.
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Well....that was no help. no.gif LOL!!! Kidding.

That is what I dont understand. Some things...like the ring in the ice, the card outside the bus, the needle and thread...

It is the small stunts that are unexplainable. The BIG stunts are just that....stunts. Not really "magic". The other stuff I guess IS magic since it cant be explained. At least not by us.

If you check out his website they constantly refer to what he does as illusions. rolleyes.gif

I dont know but I REALLY want to!!!!! LOL!!
JayeBrady
I think it's very simple...he's doing exactly what it looks like he's doing. And he's doing it by manipulating energy.

"Everything's impossible...'til it ain't."

My favorite part is still the frisbee.
_hAiLO_
I think my favorite would be the VooDoo Doll thing grin2.gif

Its like...Satanic, but I really can't say so unless I understand how he does it.
JayeBrady
QUOTE(_hAiLO_ @ Aug 3 2005, 08:40 PM)
I think my favorite would be the VooDoo Doll thing grin2.gif

Its like...Satanic, but I really can't say so unless I understand how he does it.
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I think he has spent years mastering his mind, and energy...and also would say it's the total opposite of Satanic.

I'm not saying I believe evvvvery single thing he does, I think there's a hidden key involved with the barrel escape type of stuff, but some things...I guess I look at them and think hmmm, maybe we don't "know" everything we think we do.
_hAiLO_
Yeah, 'Illusions' is like one of my new favorite Unexplained Mysteries disgust.gif

My friend is an Ametuer Magician. I'm going to confront him with my illusion issue.
Mindfreak
I agree. Why do you think Criss Angel is famous and why do we discuss him here, it's simple because he's a freaking magician and does amazing tricks the problem is that we don't know how he does that and we are so curious. If you cannot explain it it doesn't mean that it's magic.

I should say his levitation is f.....ing amazing.
Kalabalana
I can't believe I made an account to respond in these forums, but the amazing, just astounding minds at work in this forum are begging my input.

First and foremost: There is currently, and has never been anyone who has displayed supernatural powers (in the relatively short documented past). The most probable reason for this, is because such powers do not exist. NB. the above does allow the benefit of the doubt, and as such allows for the existence of certain people with paranormal ability who have kept the ability quiet to the world.

Secondly, lets say supernatural powers do exist... Why would these powers be so geared to these very specific and similarly arranged tricks? Surely such powers are vast and applicable to things beyond exclusively bending utensils (Why not warp them? Expand them?), and levitating people in a specific and non-adaptable pattern? Hell, why not levitate a tree? A ball? Or just levitate someone in different positions rather then the exact same position each time?

Lastly, why would a person exhibit their power for all to see? Why would you be an entertainer? Why would you be working in some run down place reading fortunes and such? Also, there are several monetary awards for those who can display their paranormal powers, for example a million dollar award to anyone who can display paranormal ability in any form can be found here: James Randi's Paranormal Challenge.
(Also, the total number of people to have successfully and empirically displayed such powers is up to: 0 now.) (That's means no one has ever done it.)

The fact of the matter is, the people who do believe in such powers are uninformed, and ignorant. I am not trying to insult/berate, or look down on anyone here, as most people do not have such a specific education. But in reality, while there is still so so much left unexplained, we cannot ignore what has been explained and what we already have learned/observed.

Magicians/Illusionists/etc make their money playing off of the general public's inability to see through their tricks. For example, Uri Gellar (I think that's his name) is a prime example. Watching his video's often shows the tricks he employs to fool his audience. Arguably, he is what most people would consider 'The real deal' when it comes to supernatural powers. On a side note, there are those deluded/confused individuals who may believe they have powers of their own, and as such should be excluded from the initial content of this paragraph.

Well I guess I've rambled on, but hopefully I have stressed some of the more valuable points to help explain this specific topic to any who have not already come to a similar understanding. Anyways, feel free to question any of my points, I may come back and read them. Also I cannot promise to respond to non-informed and/or biased posts. I guess what I'm saying is; often an open mind is the one most closed!
Thank you for your time!

Edit: I downloaded all 5 current episodes of Criss Angel's show, I love his tricks, and can only seem to explain most of them as having 'informed' audiences, and cut scenes. But then again, I could be dead wrong wink2.gif. Half the fun is in not figuring out the tricks!
Faeden
Hi Kalabalana

QUOTE
I can't believe I made an account to respond in these forums, but the amazing, just astounding minds at work in this forum are begging my input.


Its great to have such intelligent knowledgeable folk like you to enlighten us all, what a god send you are, we need guidance from you, as we are all dilutional, thanks for coming to our rescue.

QUOTE
First and foremost: There is currently, and has never been anyone who has displayed supernatural powers (in the relatively short documented past). The most probable reason for this, is because such powers do not exist. NB. the above does allow the benefit of the doubt, and as such allows for the existence of certain people with paranormal ability who have kept the ability quiet to the world.


There have been many. One of them spiritualist medium Leslie Flint. Leslie is the most scientifically tested medium in the history of mediumship, after years of insulting testing, the scientists involved where left gob smacked, and could not come up with a scientific explanation as to how he did it.

For more information on this click on the following link... Leslie Flint thread

I do not completely trust Uri Gellar, but he also did a telekinesis experiment on a scientific lab in the 70s or 80s where he moved a metal rod over a flat table, none of the scientists could figure out how he did it, but after said ‘blah!!! He is just is a very clever trickster, and we do not know yet how he did it’ and then conveniently forgot about it.

QUOTE
Secondly, lets say supernatural powers do exist... Why would these powers be so geared to these very specific and similarly arranged tricks? Surely such powers are vast and applicable to things beyond exclusively bending utensils (Why not warp them? Expand them?), and levitating people in a specific and non-adaptable pattern? Hell, why not levitate a tree? A ball? Or just levitate someone in different positions rather then the exact same position each time?


Because being human puts a limit to we can do when it comes to the supernatural, just as we have limits when it comes to the physical, but training causes us to become better at what ever it is we want to do, whether it be spiritual, or physical, or mental for that matter.

QUOTE
Lastly, why would a person exhibit their power for all to see? Why would you be an entertainer? Why would you be working in some run down place reading fortunes and such? Also, there are several monetary awards for those who can display their paranormal powers, for example a million dollar award to anyone who can display paranormal ability in any form can be found here: James Randi's Paranormal Challenge.
(Also, the total number of people to have successfully and empirically displayed such powers is up to: 0 now.) (That's means no one has ever done it.)


Because most spiritual beliefs have morals, where you are not to be benefit financially from spiritual gifts and talents (although many do ) Yet the ones that do benefit financially from supernatural ability more than not turn out to be the ones that are fraudulent..

Lets talk about James Randi, an arrogant scientists (someone that is all ready convinced the supernatural is all fake) that promised 1 million $ to anyone that could prove the paranormal real. I cant be bothered to search for it now, but if you like, if your interested ill dig it out for you, where a women did prove it to him and he refused to take notice of it, I cant remember all the details, but as I said if your interested ill dig it up for you. Are you also aware that a spiritualists organisation also offered Randi 1 million $ also if he could scientifically prove that the supernatural is fake? They are still waiting for Randi to prove it. Randi's research is null and void and worthless, because he is out to prove nothing else other than the supernatural is all fake, he only looks at one side of the argument, if you only have one agenda and goal how are you going to investigate anything fairly? Its like someone doing a murder investigation convinced from the very start that the accused is guilty, and only looking at the evidence for him being guilty and ignoring all the evidence that he is innocent. Randi is a media attention seeking ignoramus…

QUOTE
The fact of the matter is, the people who do believe in such powers are uninformed, and ignorant. I am not trying to insult/berate, or look down on anyone here, as most people do not have such a specific education. But in reality, while there is still so so much left unexplained, we cannot ignore what has been explained and what we already have learned/observed.


To say that people that believe in the supernatural are ignorant an uneducated is preposterous..... Some of the most excellent people of our time and the past have believed in god and the supernatural I do not know where you got your education or information that caused you to come up with that belief?

QUOTE
Magicians/Illusionists/etc make their money playing off of the general public's inability to see through their tricks. For example, Uri Gellar (I think that's his name) is a prime example. Watching his video's often shows the tricks he employs to fool his audience. Arguably, he is what most people would consider 'The real deal' when it comes to supernatural powers. On a side note, there are those deluded/confused individuals who may believe they have powers of their own, and as such should be excluded from the initial content of this paragraph.


I think your find that most people interested in the paranormal think Uri Gellar is a fraud. You really should do your home work before you comment on these things.

QUOTE
I may come back and read them. Also I cannot promise to respond to non-informed and/or biased posts. I guess what I'm saying is; often an open mind is the one most closed!


Well I do hope I am considered informed enough to be honoured with your reply, you truly have to be a exceptional individual to be worthy of your response thumbsup.gif I hope I suit the requirements.

All the best
Faeden
The Skeptic Eric Raven
A friend of mind got to party with Criss Angel about 6 months ago in Vegas. He said the guy carries himself like a rock star. He questioned him about his illusions, and the guys said they were complex tricks that he had designed. He said the whole point is to make people wonder if this is this real. My friend told me this guy is making mega bucks from his show in Vegas. He said overall he seemed to be a nice guy. He said that this guys hair is thinning on top thats why he wears hats alot.
Kalabalana
Thank you Faeden, and I apologize for my original condescending tone, regardless of whether I thought any on this forum could have an intelligent conversation by no means justified the haughty stand I had taken in my previous post.

Also, there are some things we do not see eye to eye on, regardless of James Randi's supposed failure(s), there are many other places that would love to have any proof of supernatural power. Case and point would be both the Russian and American governments who had confidential programs researching the paranormal, and human applications thereof. America has since abandoned and declassified much, if not all of the materials providing a full debriefing on their research. They were not successful at reaching their goal of finding these powers. Where as the Russians in the past had often glorified and fabricated many supposed clairvoyants, they had even designed esp machines which to much acclaim, had once been used to give a heart attack to a public official. The information behind the Russian's actions have never been declassified, and provide a very fertile foundation for supernatural ability.

Unfortunately, many clairvoyants have been observed, and have performed mind boggling tricks in specific controlled environments. Like many great illusionists/magicians even mentalists, and combinations there within, such acts have been done before to the delight of the general public. While my personal knowledge of Leslie Flint is limited, but from a quick google search I see that he was a person used to channel or commune with the dead? Well we also have John Edward from crossing over who has similar powers, these seemingly irrefutable powers that allow him to talk to the dead (or channel their messages, whichever). Unfortunately, our ability to understand the 'power' of these people is in it's infancy at best. Unfortunately, through the lack of abundant supernatural powers in this world, we have never really invested the amount of interest as we have to causes like healthcare or the design of microchips. We can explain, but not quite duplicate, these 'gifted' people are masters in their field, like a star baseball player compared to his team, his players are good, but he's just a little better for some innate reason, or more experience. Though there are those who fight the flow and are investigating claims of the paranormal, headway is constantly being made, but it is slow.

Also associating god with the supernatural is a big no no, lets leave any associations between religion and the paranormal out of our arguments. Religion is a very fertile and ambiguous ground that could leverage clauses on either side of our argument.

As for Uri Gellar, I guess since he is one of the most popular illusionists, and since there have been investigative reports into him, rather then other people in the past few decades, I'd given him the credit I cannot give others. Plus I've seen too many people praising him and blindly believing in his 'powers'.

I have to go back to the money/fame/recognition issue, I cannot believe there is not a person with such powers who would in no way try to use these powers to further their life. Also, humans are made very similarly, everyone has some degree in any ability as the next person, and nobody has an ability that excels so much over anothers as to make the lesser persons ability seem dormant. If anything we all have supernatural powers, or we don't. Just like how even the most amazing math genius, and the least capable person in math, may both add 1+1 to the amazement of all.

Also please do not confuse me for being close minded, the whole idea of science is actually conceived from being open minded. If there were supernaturals powers it would be amazing, I've often wished we could live such lives, unfortunately, as things look, these powers do not exist outside of stories and beliefs. Lastly if supernatural powers were observable, science would with open arms adopt the fact, the scientific method is often used as a scapegoat for the lack of acknowledgment the paranormal receives, when it is actually constantly used to try and prove the existence.



Marth
whoa...yes I did see this the other night. he did some pretty awesome stuff. I tried to figure it for an hour and could come up with no way for some things to be faked. hes pretty damn cool
Faeden
Hi Kalabalana

No need to apologise, sorry though if I was a little sarcastic lol

QUOTE
ile my personal knowledge of Leslie Flint is limited, but from a quick google search I see that he was a person used to channel or commune with the dead? Well we also have John Edward from crossing over who has similar powers, these seemingly irrefutable powers that allow him to talk to the dead (or channel their messages, whichever). Unfortunately, our ability to understand the 'power' of these people is in it's infancy at best.


If you click on the link I provided it will tell you quite a lot about Flint and the experiments he did.

You cant compare John Edward’s with Leslie Flint, the two are in completely different leagues. I am not a fan of John Edward’s as his hit rate is poor, and he asks to many questions to the sitter, which would suggest cold reading. Leslie flint on the other hand manifested voices from the middle of the room that calmed to be the voices of deceased people, and no scientific test could prove him a fake, or how he did it.

Its interesting you use John Edward’s as an example, because if you look at what most sceptics say they always use him, because he is one of the worst well known mediums there are, I assume your in America, so you wont know about Colin Fry and Gordon Smith, they are much more impressive than Edward’s in fact you have James Van Praggh and he goes out of his way not to ask many questions and asks his sitters to just say yes and no.

QUOTE
Also please do not confuse me for being close minded, the whole idea of science is actually conceived from being open minded. If there were supernaturals powers it would be amazing, I've often wished we could live such lives, unfortunately, as things look, these powers do not exist outside of stories and beliefs. Lastly if supernatural powers were observable, science would with open arms adopt the fact, the scientific method is often used as a scapegoat for the lack of acknowledgment the paranormal receives, when it is actually constantly used to try and prove the existence.


I think your find that many scientists are very closed minded, they believe in what is in there science books, and nothing more. Some of the most greatest of scientists and inventors have been the more open minded ones. Some scientists will never believe in the supernatural no matter what they see or experience, or are shown, because they will always find a natural explanation for it to comfort them selves, so that there science books are not contradicted and they will remain there holy bible.

All the best
Faeden
Kalabalana
Well by the very definition of progress, things are happening that have not been done before, this cannot be achieved by a close minded community. In fact science is all about learning, and a close minded person cannot readily learn, or be told things they do not know in an extreme example. My point is while you have come into experience with close minded scientists, there are just so many more open minded ones. By your stance of course you would only come into contact with close minded ones who are confrontational.
Also these mediums you mentioned, I also have not heard of (btw I am not American), but if they did warrant something unexplainable, the fanfare and publications would be phenomenal, I do not see how you can argue against this. We are learning new things constantly, doing things we did not think can happen just recently, yet it keeps happening, but one thing that has existed nearly forever, and has never really been employed are the powers of the supernatural. I can't argue against the existence of supernatural powers because there is nothing there to argue for or against. These mediums must be popular in your inner circles, but if what they are doing is valid, this is world breaking news, the 6th sense is real. Imagine if we didn't know we could see, and we learned how to use our eyes, the implications and effects it would have on the world would be astronomical. This is in no way different from this supernatural power. The ramifications would be massively felt all over the world, rather then some small embodiments which occasionally occur and have been deemed questionable. Not every single person who can scientifically verify the validity of these men are close minded you see.
Faeden
Hi

QUOTE
but if they did warrant something unexplainable, the fanfare and publications would be phenomenal, I do not see how you can argue against this.


Well the high rise in paranormal interest, such as medium shows, and paranormal documentaries, and the huge explosion of the spiritualist and pagan movements seems to suggest that something phenomenal is happening, because people are amazed what they have seen and experienced, so I do not argue with it at all.

All the best
Faeden
crissangelslave
QUOTE(sub_x0ne @ Jul 20 2005, 03:09 PM)
Criss Angel is a magician that does street magic.  If you know who David Blane is, they are very similar.  He does magic that I've never seen anyone else do before and I can't think of any way the tricks are done.  If anyone has seen Criss Angel's special or his show, you know what I'm talking about.  He has a new show on TLC called Criss Angel: Mind Freak, and it's on at 10:00 P.M. eastern, in the US.

Has anyone else seen Criss Angel's magic before?
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Have you seen that one with the voodoo doll?[COLOR=red]Hes so hot wub.gif wish I met him!!!
Kalabalana
QUOTE(Faeden @ Aug 8 2005, 02:58 PM)
Hi

QUOTE
but if they did warrant something unexplainable, the fanfare and publications would be phenomenal, I do not see how you can argue against this.


Well the high rise in paranormal interest, such as medium shows, and paranormal documentaries, and the huge explosion of the spiritualist and pagan movements seems to suggest that something phenomenal is happening, because people are amazed what they have seen and experienced, so I do not argue with it at all.

All the best
Faeden
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Well I was referring to large fan base, as in, it becomes accepted knowledge as being true, front page of newspapers all over the world, new schools, vast articles with detailed information, massive grants from governments, etc. Everything you are saying is essentially new to me, and as far as knowledge goes, I tend to keep up on things beyond the normal person, so I am boggled by this supposed popularity. Also pagen movements, tv shows, spiritualist movements are nothing new, they can only grow, but then again, so has scientology, so has the mickey mouse club, so has the sponge bob square pants fan base.
crissangelslave
QUOTE(Kalabalana @ Aug 8 2005, 08:05 AM)
QUOTE(Faeden @ Aug 8 2005, 02:58 PM)
Hi

QUOTE
but if they did warrant something unexplainable, the fanfare and publications would be phenomenal, I do not see how you can argue against this.


Well the high rise in paranormal interest, such as medium shows, and paranormal documentaries, and the huge explosion of the spiritualist and pagan movements seems to suggest that something phenomenal is happening, because people are amazed what they have seen and experienced, so I do not argue with it at all.

All the best
Faeden
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Well I was referring to large fan base, as in, it becomes accepted knowledge as being true, front page of newspapers all over the world, new schools, vast articles with detailed information, massive grants from governments, etc. Everything you are saying is essentially new to me, and as far as knowledge goes, I tend to keep up on things beyond the normal person, so I am boggled by this supposed popularity. Also pagen movements, tv shows, spiritualist movements are nothing new, they can only grow, but then again, so has scientology, so has the mickey mouse club, so has the sponge bob square pants fan base.
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When I was a baby my moms mother had just died I was very young and then my mom picked me up then I pointed at the wall and said grandama It was a blake wall.
Kalabalana
ummm, ok
Faeden
LOL yeah, but it doesn’t matter how big sponge bob or Mickey mouse gets, its not world changing, if the scientific community came out officially and said that the after life exists, then the world would change dramatically, and there are folk including scientists that would be terrified at this possibility, also if science proved it to be real they would probably also prove that all of the major religions where wrong to, and that is not going to go down well is it?

All the best
Faeden
Faeden
QUOTE
When I was a baby my moms mother had just died I was very young and then my mom picked me up then I pointed at the wall and said grandama It was a blake wall.


Well kids are supposed to have just come from the spirit world, so they are more sensitive to it.

On the other hand it could have been something that reminded you of your grandma like a smell, or something your parents said that made you remember her, which made you say out her name.

All the best
Faeden
crissangelslave
And later I said the weirdest thing I asked my mom for a peanutbutter and mayonnaise sandwich.Thats what my moms mom made for my mom and her sister when they where young. dontgetit.gif
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