The belief system identified as spiritualism first developed in America during the 19th century. Today, it is making a real comeback - thanks largely to alleged mediums like Jonathan Edwards who claim that they can speak to the dead. Millions believe that communication with deceased relatives is possible, and they are quite willing to shell out money to make it happen for them.

According to the Daily Record, much of this popularity is also being fueled by the attention give it by celebrities:

Surveys carried out over the last decade showed almost a quarter of those asked said they had been in touch with someone who had died, once or twice. A further 15 per cent claimed to have had the experience on several occasions. As ever, celebrities have been leading the way, sharing their supernatural sides.

For most people, it doesn't seem to matter whether any of these spiritual encounters are genuine or not; what's important is that it makes people feel better about themselves and their lives. When reason and truth take a second place to happy feelings, culture and society are in real danger.

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• Christian Theology
• Spirit Possession