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Why we believe in the supernatural

Why we believe in the supernatural

Historian Malcolm Gaskill reveals how emotions like grief and uncertainty have shaped our relationship with the supernatural for centuries

Elinor Evans

Published: October 28, 2026 at 9:18 AM

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Ghosts, witches, flying nuns, and spirits summoned from beyond the grave might seem to belong to a less rational age. But were our ancestors really so different from us in their beliefs?

In this episode, historian Malcolm Gaskill joins Elinor Evans to discuss his new book, Worlds of Fear and Wonder, and reveals how emotions like grief and uncertainty have shaped our relationship with the supernatural for centuries.

Authors

Elinor EvansHead of digital (web and video)

Elinor Evans is head of digital (web and video)

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