Seers. Mediums. Clairvoyants. Psychics. Telepathy. Prophesies. Paranormality. Hypnosis.

I love it all—the hope that deceased loved ones are indeed still with us, in a way, bearing comforting messages. The mystery of things we can't prove or disprove. The excitement and freakishness when a psychic's prediction comes true, no matter how vague. Ghosts.

But perhaps what I love most is how it all makes GREAT television. A typical John Edward (pictured) conversation with a studio audience usually goes a little something like this:


Edward: Okay, I'm getting a feeling over here, in this section. (waves hands broadly) I see the letter J. (pause) And I see a car. Does this mean anything to anyone?

(man tentatively stands up) It might be me?

Edward: Yes, I'm getting a strong feeling...Jessica?

Man: My niece Jessica died in a car accident last year. (audience's sharp intake of breath)

Edward: She wants you to know she's okay. There's something about your wife and a locket?

(man tears up and sits back down, too overwhelmed to answer)

It's compelling and irresistible. Granted, I'm already a sucker for this stuff (a significant portion of my college . . . More