Radionics

From SkepticWiki

1 Definition
- 1.1 Origins
- 1.2 Quotations
2 Discussion
3 Related Topics
4 Links

[edit] Definition

Radionics is a supposed method of diagnosis and treatment based on the ideas that the body gives off electromagnetic radiation; that this radiation changes in quality when a person is sick, and according to the nature of the disease; that this difference can be detected by a "radionic" device, thus permitting diagnosis; and that using another or the same radionic device to broadcast the appropriate signal at the patient will effect a cure.

The term radionics is also used more loosely to refer to the underlying principle behind any device which is claimed to have magical powers and to run off electricity.

[edit] Origins

Practitioners of radionics are unanimous in naming as the father of their pseudoscience one Dr Albert Abrams (1863 - 1924), although the word "radionics" itself dates from the 1940s. The movement he began for electronic diagnosis and cure has continued and flourished since his death. Radionic devices are in plentiful supply today, although they may have little in common with those pioneered by Dr Abrams --- nor indeed, with each other.

The scope of radionics has now increased from the mere diagnosis and cure of disease to helping people pass exams, become popular, cast spells, see auras, "become the shaman master that you always dreamed of" and achieve "crystal clear mental clarity" (though not, evidently, the sort of clarity which enables one to avoid tautology).

Claims to actually diagnose and cure diseases as such is frowned upon by the law, and many radionic devices for sale over the Internet come with little legal disclaimers saying that they are for research purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or cure. If he knew, Dr Abrams would turn in his grave.

[edit] Quotations

WHAT CAN THE MOST POWERFUL RADIONIC MACHINES ON EARTH HELP YOU TO ACHIEVE

CREATE POWERFUL THOUGHTFORMS TO HELP YOU MANIFEST AND DESIGN YOUR LIFE
REMOTE VIEW AND REMOTE INFLUENCE ANYBODY, ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD OR UNIVERSE
MIND CONTROL YOURSELF AND OTHERS
BALANCE, ENERGIZE, CLEAR CHAKRAS AND ENERGY POINTS
CREATE A PSYCHIC SHIELD ALL AROUND YOU
MAGNETIZE YOUR AURIC FIELDS TO ATTRACT LUCK, LOVE, PROSPERITY & POWER
ASTRAL PROJECT PSYCHOTRONIC STYLE
ENERGIZE AND INFUSE SYMBOLS, SIGILS, OR MOST ANY MATERIAL THAT YOU CAN THINK OF WITH VIBRATIONAL ENERGY

[edit] Discussion

Radionics is among the world's most expensive nonsense. A really snazzy radionic device such as the Homeopathic Remedy Maker And Radionic Broadcaster Mark II will set you back a cool six thousand dollars.

Those attracted to alternative medicine should first consider cheaper therapeutic options, such as acupuncture, crystal healing, or throwing their money into a big hole.