The Possession of Luranah Mather

In 1908, Luranah Mather, a medium in London, exhibited signs that puzzled researchers at the Society for Psychical Research. Her case became an early attempt to apply scientific methodology to claims of possession.

The Background

Mather had worked as a medium for years when her behavior changed dramatically. She began speaking in voices she claimed not to recognize, exhibiting personalities foreign to her nature, and suffering blackouts during which others observed disturbing behavior.

The Investigation

Members of the SPR interviewed Mather extensively, documented her episodes, and attempted to identify the personalities that manifested. Unlike typical mediumistic “controls,” these entities seemed hostile and frightening.

The Conflict

Mather’s case created tension within the SPR between those who viewed her condition as genuine spirit possession and those who believed it represented psychological dissociation. This debate would echo through the organization for decades.

The Resolution

Mather eventually recovered, though the mechanism of her recovery was never clear. She continued to work as a medium but reported no further experiences of the disturbing nature she had exhibited.

Assessment

The Luranah Mather case is significant for its early attempt to investigate possession claims systematically. It helped establish protocols that would be used in later investigations, even as it failed to resolve the fundamental question of whether possession was spiritual or psychological.