Richard Hodgson (parapsychologist)

Richard Hodgson (1855-1905) was an Australian-born psychical researcher and lawyer who played a significant role in the Society for Psychical Research (SPR). He is best known for his investigations into mediumship, particularly his extended study of Leonora Piper.

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Hodgson earned degrees in law from the University of Melbourne and later studied philosophy at the University of Cambridge. He initially practiced law but became increasingly interested in psychic phenomena.

In 1884, he joined the SPR and was appointed its first secretary and treasurer for the American branch, based in Boston. Hodgson quickly became a prominent figure within the organization. Early on, he investigated Madame Blavatsky and Theosophy, initially writing a highly critical report that contributed to her negative reputation.

Hodgson's most significant work involved the study of the medium Leonora Piper. Beginning in 1885, he conducted extensive sessions with her, meticulously documenting the purported communications from deceased individuals. Initially skeptical, Hodgson became increasingly convinced of the genuineness of some of Piper's phenomena, although he never definitively concluded that she was communicating with discarnate spirits. He explored various alternative explanations, including telepathy and subconscious impersonation. His prolonged and detailed study of Piper formed a cornerstone of his reputation and the SPR's work on mediumship.

Beyond Piper, Hodgson investigated other mediums and psychic phenomena. He was known for his rigorous and cautious approach, though his methods were sometimes criticized by other researchers. He maintained a balance between skepticism and open-mindedness, striving to apply scientific principles to the study of phenomena often dismissed as fraudulent or imaginary.

Hodgson died suddenly in 1905 at the age of 50, leaving behind a substantial body of work on mediumship and psychical research. His extensive records and analyses of Leonora Piper's mediumship remain important resources for those interested in the history and study of paranormal phenomena. His contributions helped shape the field of parapsychology and influenced the development of research methodologies.