There seems to be some confusion regarding this topic
Posted: 26 Jul 2009, 12:38
The paranormal proponents on this board seem to be operating under the illusion that the JREF MDP exists in order to award money to a successful performance of a paranormal skill.
That's what they claim to the public. But based on what is said on the forum, by JREF members between them, this is clearly not correct. The JREF MDP exists in order to publicize the existence of the JREF. That is the sole reason for the MDP's existence: padding Randi's wallet, and he makes a great deal of money from the JREF (I remember once seeing the JREF financial statements, the man lives a pretty rich life). They do like testing people because it's a high-profile activity, and because it happens so few often, kinda like a baby shower.
(this is also, BTW, the reason for the constant rule-changes: as regards to well-known celebrities, less barriers must be put in their way, so the publicity can come more easily)
So all these complaints may very well be valid (I make no claim to judge either way), but they're missing the point. Randi doesn't give a damn about any unfairness in the process. Seeing some of the real kooky people who have applied throughout the years, I have to agree with him a bit on that issue.
That being said, I really admire Randi, although not for the MDP, obviously. The MDP is just another magician's trick, and you've all been fooled by the misdirection. You expected a fair process, when fairness is besides the point.
That's what they claim to the public. But based on what is said on the forum, by JREF members between them, this is clearly not correct. The JREF MDP exists in order to publicize the existence of the JREF. That is the sole reason for the MDP's existence: padding Randi's wallet, and he makes a great deal of money from the JREF (I remember once seeing the JREF financial statements, the man lives a pretty rich life). They do like testing people because it's a high-profile activity, and because it happens so few often, kinda like a baby shower.
(this is also, BTW, the reason for the constant rule-changes: as regards to well-known celebrities, less barriers must be put in their way, so the publicity can come more easily)
So all these complaints may very well be valid (I make no claim to judge either way), but they're missing the point. Randi doesn't give a damn about any unfairness in the process. Seeing some of the real kooky people who have applied throughout the years, I have to agree with him a bit on that issue.
That being said, I really admire Randi, although not for the MDP, obviously. The MDP is just another magician's trick, and you've all been fooled by the misdirection. You expected a fair process, when fairness is besides the point.