Chinese Paranormal Research Program (1979-1984)
Chinese Paranormal Research Program (1979-1984)
The Chinese Paranormal Research Program was a government-supported scientific research initiative conducted in China between 1979 and 1984. The program, officially documented in CIA declassified file CIA-RDP96-00792R000300330001-8, investigated claims of paranormal capabilities in children and adults. Beginning with the reported discovery of a child who could allegedly recognize characters with his ears, the program expanded to include multiple research institutions and received support from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the National Defense Industries Commission.
History
Origins
The program traces its official beginning to March 11, 1979, when the Sichuan Daily published an article about Tang Yu, a student from Dazu County who reportedly could identify Chinese characters using his ears rather than his eyes. Following this report, similar abilities were claimed in children across several provinces, including Beijing, Hebei, and Heilongjiang.
Development
The research initiative developed through four distinct phases:
- Initial Discovery (March–August 1979)
- Institutional Development (September 1979–August 1981)
- Scientific Debate (September 1981–June 1982)
- Systematic Research (June 1982–1984)
Research Organization
Administrative Structure
The program operated under the China Human Science Research Commission (Preparatory), with subsidiary committees established in various provinces and municipalities. Key participating institutions included:
- Beijing Normal College
- Shanghai Transportation University
- Chinese Academy of Sciences
- Multiple provincial medical institutions
Key Personnel
- Qian Xue-Lin – Leading theoretical contributor
- Zhang Zhen-Huan – National Defense Industries Commission representative
- He Zong-Yu – Chairman of research commission
Experimental Studies
Major Research Areas
The program investigated several claimed paranormal phenomena:
Psychic Writing
Experiments involved attempts to:
- Write on paper inside sealed envelopes
- Transfer writing through spatial barriers
- Create impressions of seals in closed containers
Material Manipulation
Studies included:
- Breaking and reforming of metal needles
- Movement of objects through sealed barriers
- Teleportation of small items
Methodology
Researchers employed various scientific instruments and methods:
- Electron microscopy
- EEG monitoring
- Blood flow measurement
- Temperature recording
- Double-blind protocols
Controversy
The program faced significant scientific and ideological challenges, particularly during 1981-1982. Critics, led by Yu Guang-Yuan, characterized the research as "running counter to Marxism" and "feudal sorcery." The controversy was ultimately resolved through intervention from the Central Committee Propaganda Department, which authorized continued research.
