I've been wondering just what it is about the U.S. that tends to foster such strong beliefs in paranormal matters such as the existence of ghosts, psychic powers, etc.

It's certainly a very diverse nation, and it's one in which people can feel free to believe and talk about such things without fear of total alienation. I wonder if in this sense our freedom sometimes holds as back.

I wouldn't go quite so far as some people to say that such beliefs are necessarily harmful on the individual level (unless taken to the extreme of irrationality), but I seriously wonder what collective effect they have on society.

It's difficult to gauge this, because there are many other differences between the nations of the world. I think that over time, though, increased globablization of commerce and culture will tend to equalize things a bit.

Well, I hope that made enough sense. Any comments?