Can we always believe our cognitive abilities? Do we frequently see things that we have not actually seen? A research group based on anomalistic psychology, or the science of belief, will be launched at Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Albury-Wodonga on Thursday 29 March to explore how beliefs are created and how they work in various situations. Director of the Science of Anomalistic Psychology (SOAP) Centre, Dr Krissy Wilson, said anomalistic psychology should not be confused with parapsychology, which tends to be more sympathetic towards claims of the ‘paranormal’. “Many sceptics remain unconvinced by the evidence put forward by parapsychologists, and I too am a sceptic,” Dr Wilson said. “Many TV programs focus on such topics as psychic powers, mediums and clairvoyants. These topics are rarely treated with a sceptical approach in the program, so many people assume these things are ‘real’. I want to explore these psychic topics, especially with the help of people around Albury-Wodonga, in our centre.” The SOAP Centre will be launched by Mr Richard Saunders from Channel Seven’s The One program at 6pm on 29 March in the CD Blake Lecture Theatre, CSU off Elizabeth Mitchell Drive, Thurgoona.