• Lourembam Siddhartha

This research paper examines the depiction of paranormal occurrences in horror films and assesses how these portrayals intersect with scientific, psychological, and cultural understandings of the supernatural. Using films such as The Exorcism of Emily Rose and The Conjuring series, in addition to concepts from parapsychology, psychology, and the philosophy of science, this study explores the conflict between belief and doubt, as well as humanity's lasting intrigue with the mysterious. The inquiry starts by tackling the demarcation issue, a fundamental question in the philosophy of science related to the distinctions between science and pseudoscience. Using the theories of Karl Popper and Thomas Kuhn, the article examines how cultural and institutional biases influence the categorization of paranormal studies. It also assesses the historical impact of fraud claims on the marginalization of parapsychology and examines how skepticism, while vital for scientific integrity, can occasionally be applied selectively. Psychological models, such as excitation transfer theory and uses and gratifications theory, are utilized to comprehend why viewers are attracted to horror films. The emotional and cognitive allure of the supernatural is examined through thrill-seeking, fear regulation, and the creation of existential significance. The study also places horror films within cultural settings, analyzing how diverse societies perceive paranormal themes through distinct religious, historical, and storytelling traditions. In conclusion, this paper contends that although the scientific validity of paranormal events is debated, their depiction in film offers deep understanding of human thought, feelings, and cultural identity. Horror movies act as symbolic environments where unaddressed anxieties and different modes of understanding are examined and addressed.

Paranormal, Cinema, Parapsychology, New Media,

" The Science Behind Ghosts: Investigating the Paranormal Through Cinema", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 5, page no.f54-f58, May-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2505598.pdf

" The Science Behind Ghosts: Investigating the Paranormal Through Cinema", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 5, page no. ppf54-f58, May-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2505598.pdf