Table-tilting is a type of séance in which participants sit around a table, place their hands on it, and wait for rotations. The table was purportedly made to serve as a means of communicating with the spirits; the alphabet would be slowly spoken aloud and the table would tilt at the appropriate letter, thus spelling out words and sentences. The process is similar to that of a Ouija board. Scientists and skeptics consider table-tilting to be the result of the ideomotor effect, or of conscious trickery.
In England table-turning became a fashionable diversion and was practised all over the country in the year 1853. John Elliotson and his followers attributed the phenomena to mesmerism. The general public were content to find the explanation of the movements in spirits, animal magnetism, Odic force, galvanism, electricity, or even the rotation of the earth. Some Evangelical clergymen alleged that the spirits who caused the movements were of a diabolic nature.
Table-tilting is a complex phenomenon that has been the subject of much debate and research. There is no single explanation for why tables tilt, but there are a number of theories. One theory is that table-tilting is caused by the ideomotor effect, which is a phenomenon in which people unconsciously move their muscles in response to suggestion. Another theory is that table-tilting is caused by conscious trickery, such as when participants subtly move the table themselves or when they use magnets or other devices to create the illusion of movement.
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that table-tilting is a means of communicating with the dead. However, table-tilting remains a popular activity for many people, and it is often seen as a form of entertainment or a way to connect with the spiritual world.
Here are some additional information about table-tilting:
- History: Table-tilting was first reported in the 17th century, and it became popular in the 19th century. It was often used as a form of entertainment, and it was also seen as a way to communicate with the dead.
- Methods: Table-tilting is usually done by a group of people sitting around a table with their hands on it. The table is then slowly tilted, and the participants try to communicate with the spirits by spelling out words or sentences.
- Criticism: Table-tilting has been criticized by scientists and skeptics, who believe that it is a hoax. They argue that the ideomotor effect or conscious trickery is responsible for the table’s movement.
- Popular culture: Table-tilting has been featured in popular culture, including in the novels of Charles Dickens and the films of Harry Potter.
Table-tilting is a fascinating phenomenon that has been the subject of much debate and research. There is no single explanation for why tables tilt, but there are a number of theories. Whether or not you believe that table-tilting is a means of communicating with the dead, it is a fascinating example of human psychology and the power of suggestion.