The Paranormal Belief Among Iraqi University Students

Abstract

Over the past three decades, researchers have increasingly focused on studying the rise of paranormal beliefs among students and the general public, despite advancements in scientific knowledge and higher levels of education. Singer and Benassi (1981) indicated that the level of belief in the paranormal could be considered an indicator of deficiencies in science education programs. Accordingly, paranormal belief is viewed as a violation of scientific facts and laws, posing a threat to public scientific literacy. This necessitates identifying and diagnosing such beliefs within society, particularly among students, as a crucial step toward addressing gaps and weaknesses in the educational system. The goal is to enhance scientific understanding and foster critical thinking in the face of such phenomena. Therefore, the present study seeks to uncover the level of paranormal belief among Iraqi university students and to analyze differences in belief levels based on gender and academic specialization.