What's The Spooky Science Behind The Ouija Board?

Spoiler: It’s not ghosts. But this spooky game, or tool, does involve what some psychologists call 'zombie mind.' And it reveals other fascinating things about the human psyche and behavior.

By Kate Golembiewski
Oct 31, 2022 4:00 PMSep 28, 2023 2:18 PM
Three people conducting a seance using a Ouija Board with white candles. Shot from overhead.
(Credit: Couperfield/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

This article was originally published on Oct. 25, 2021.

Maybe you’re at a sleepover, or a Halloween party. Maybe it’s night, it’s probably night. You sit before a board with the alphabet printed on it, a little sun and moon, the words “yes” and “no” and “goodbye.”

You rest the tips of your fingers on a heart-shaped plastic platform and ask a question. You’re not moving it, you swear, and your friend says they’re not moving it either, but the platform glides across the board, from one letter to the next, spelling out a name, an answer to a question it couldn’t possibly know. Do Ouija boards actually work?

Our Fascination With Ouija Boards

For over 130 years, Ouija boards have amazed, entertained, and even frightened people with mysterious messages from the beyond. But more recently, they've provided psychologists with insights into the human body and mind.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2023 Kalmbach Media Co.