The psychology of superstition in a nutshell
Written by: Beck
If you have watched the news at all in the past two days, you are no doubt aware of the
tragedy which occurred in a West Virginia coal mine not too long ago in which 12 miners were killed. There was one survivor. At first, however, it was reported that there were 12 survivors and only 1 death.
When people thought that 12 had emerged alive, they gave praise and thanks to God.
John Casto was at the church when the false report arrived and later, the terrible news. After the first report, "they were praising God," he said. And after the second "they were cursing."
One of those gathered at the church was Lynette Roby, who said the scene turned quickly to mayhem upon the announcement.
People began screaming, "You lied to us!" and "Hypocrites!" before charging officials, Roby said, further describing the church as "a mob scene." Police intervened, she said.
And when they found out that 12 were dead, they blamed human officials.
And so it goes.
