Exploring the Extraordinary is an interdisciplinary network for those engaged/interested in research into the 'extraordinary' - topics often regarded as paranormal, supernatural, religious, transcendent, ecstatic, exceptional, mystical, anomalous, magical, or spiritual. We regard extraordinary experiences as those that transcend the mundane, with interests in the experiences themselves, and how they have influenced and been incorporated into human societies.

Our members include a number of individuals from different academic disciplines (including anthropology, art, english studies, folklore, film studies, geography, history, natural sciences, parapsychology, philosophy, physical sciences, psychology, religious studies, sociology, theatre studies, and theology), as well as those who are not affiliated with such institutions.

Exploring the Extraordinary was founded in 2007, by Dr Madeleine Castro, Dr Hannah Gilbert and Dr Nicola Holt, who were - at the time - postgraduate members of the Anomalous Experiences Research Unit, based at the University of York, UK. The network grew out of a desire to provide a central hub for those with research interests in extraordinary topics, offering regular opportunities to network and discuss their research. Such research interests are often marginalised within larger academic environments, and so a supportive and interactive forum was hoped to be beneficial to those working in this field, and for those interested in these areas. 

Along with a jiscmail discussion list and Facebook group, we run an annual academic conference. Exploring the Extraordinary also has links with artists, writers and film-makers who are inspired by extraordinary topics and themes.

For more information about the network, please email us at ete.network@gmail.com