The term “paranormal” is exceptionally broad. It can refer to any number of intriguing concepts or phenomena that are beyond what mainstream science can explain. Topics range from psychic phenomena to bizarre animals to UFO sightings and beyond. The definition is so far-reaching that most experts must focus on a specific subtopic of the paranormal in order to conduct substantial research. Thus, several fields of study, including crytozoology, parapsychology, and ufology, all fall under the heading of the paranormal.

The term “metaphysics” has Greek roots meaning “beyond the physical.” It refers to the study of topics that range beyond the physical world. This includes philosophical pursuits, magical powers,

A conspiracy refers to an act of deception used to disrupt some aspect of society for the personal or ideological gain of the conspirators and their supporters. A conspiracy must always involve more than one person participating in some form of subterfuge. Conspiracies are also discussed as “conspiracy theories.” These plots are claimed to be developed by some influential group or organization to conceal information from the public.

Urban legends are modern stories featuring extraordinary elements. These tales are widely circulated and considered by many to contain elements of truth. Urban legends are inherently modern in nature. In fact, the term did not appear until the 1970s. Prior to this time, tall tales were surely circulated. However, they did not garner specific attention as a genre or earn special investigative attention.

Humans have always been fascinated by that which seems strange or odd. This can range from abnormal talents, bodily mutations, unexplained animals, and more. Collectively, these phenomena are a part of the “world of the bizarre.” The world of the bizarre has been frequently highlighted by trade shows, circuses, documentaries, and books created for the amusement of the general public.

Throughout history, people with similar ideas and interests have come together for specific purposes. However, sometimes their aims must be kept hidden from others. Thus, the group becomes a “secret society.” Secret societies have existed for thousands of years, and many are still around today. They are usually fraternal organizations. This means their members adopt artificial family ties upon initiation. It does not imply all secret societies are exclusive to males. In fact, there are several notable organizations which initiate female members, and even a few all-female societies.

Archaeology is the study of physical remains and artifacts left by past societies. Archaeologists use these tangible recoveries to study various societies and trace the cultural evolution of mankind. To find answers to the questions they study, archeologists participate in geological surveys, excavations, historical preservation, and scientific experiments. Thus, Archaeology becomes a combination of field work, anthropological study, geology, and other disciplines.

The term “ancient mysteries” refers to any of the unsolved archaeological puzzles that have confounded generations of historians. These include technologically impossible monuments, inexplicable primary accounts, and intriguing tales of lost civilizations. Most of these mysteries remain elusive because of the lack of available evidence from their original time periods. Without such data, researchers are left to speculate on such topics as who built the statues on Easter Island or why the Mayan civilization collapsed so suddenly. Although many of these puzzles may never be solved, researchers from every corner of the globe and every academic discipline continue to try and explain some of our world’s oldest mysteries.

Astronomy refers to the scientific study of celestial objects and phenomena. Literally translated, astronomy means “law of the stars.” Astronomers use a variety of methods and tools to study features of the universe beyond Earth’s atmosphere. They use this knowledge to predict future celestial events, suggest new technologies, and understand our universe as a whole.

Crop circles refer to patterns made by the flattening of agricultural fields. They are generally formed on grain crops whose long stalks make the patterns quite noticeable. According to many experts, true crop circles must be created by the crushing of crops, rather than by burning or cutting. Although many people associate crop circles with locations in the United Kingdom, examples of these phenomena have been sighted all over the world.