Abstract

Discusses how funds may be best used to hasten scientific progress in American parapsychology, stressing immediate goals and tactics of research support. It is suggested that only those projects should be supported which emphasize scientific investigation as opposed to providing inspiration for laymen. The types of organizational units in which parapsychological research may be carried out are discussed and evaluated: departments in universities (especially psychology), independent research institutes, and open-membership organizations. Qualifications of professional scientists are described and applied to parapsychologists. The problems involved in selecting awardees for parapsychological research are discussed, as is the establishment of chairs of parapsychology and the potential role of the Parapsychological Association (the professional parapsychological society). Several ideas for current parapsychological funding are presented.