Scientific study of consciousness-related physical phenomena at Princeton University (1979-2007)
The Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research Lab (PEAR Lab) operated in the Engineering department of Princeton University from 1979 to 2007. It was founded by Professor Robert G. Jahn, then Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science. Brenda Dunne, a developmental psychologist from the University of Chicago, served as laboratory manger.
The PEAR Lab was a pioneering initiative that explored the interactions between human consciousness and physical devices. The lab’s primary focus was on understanding whether human intention could influence the behavior of machines, specifically random event generators (REGs, also known as True Random Number Generators). Over the course of nearly three decades, PEAR conducted extensive experiments suggesting that human consciousness can have a measurable impact on the behavior of these devices, challenging the conventional understanding of the mind-matter relationship.
PEAR's experiments often involved participants attempting to influence the output of REGs, which produce sequences of numbers that are statistically random. The results indicated that, over many trials, the participants’ intentions could subtly shift the distribution of outcomes away from pure randomness, suggesting that the human mind might be capable of affecting physical systems in ways that are not currently understood by conventional physics.
Despite the controversial nature of its findings at the time, PEAR contributed significantly to the field of consciousness research by rigorously documenting its methodologies and results. The lab's work was both criticized and praised, sparking debates within the scientific community about the boundaries of science and the nature of consciousness.
The current popularity of consciousness research is in many ways attributable to the pioneering work conducted at PEAR, and to its lasting impression on the people who passed through its doors over its 28 year history. PEAR alumni Dean Radin and Roger Nelson continue related investigations at IONS and GCP. Technology company Psyleron has created modern mind-matter technology applications and maintains an IP portfolio.