As far as the paranormal is concerned is a skeptical mind and an open mind the same thing.?

Question

As far as the paranormal is concerned is a skeptical mind and an open mind the same thing.?

Answer 1

In a lot of ways, yes they are the same. A skeptic isn't a cynic or merely a denier for denial's sake. Rather, if you give the skeptic the evidence, the skeptic is going to consider it and critically review it. That's having an open mind, but not just an open mind, but a rational and reasoning one as well.

Answer 2

You would think so but not always. it is possible to be skeptical and closed minded while it is also possible to be open minded to the possibility of the paranormal while not being skeptical.

A healthy balance is being skeptical while at the same time being open to the possibility the paranormal exists.

Not everything has an explanation. But at the same time not all those things that cannot be easily explained is paranormal.

Answer 3

In my opinion a skeptical mind is a  closed mind.  The skeptic is not going to believe anything once they've made up their minds.  A person with an open mind will take information and revise their beliefs based on that information and their experience.  

A 'believer' is the other end of the continuim their minds are also closed.  No proof is needed and they will not change their beliefs either.