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Alleged psychic John Edwards taps online metaphysical market
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John Edward, the alleged psychic of “Crossing Over” fame (or infamy), has tapped into the new media with “Infinite Quest,” a website where believers in the paranormal can pay more money for readings in astrology, numerology, and tarot cards. Alleged “messages from beyond” are also available through webinars, classes, and one-on-one consultations. Lest no paying believer feel left out, those with money can also tap into the knowledge of “experts” on Feng Shui, past life regression, developing psychic gifts or any number of other escapes from reality.
Those without money can register for free membership, which entitles them to view commercials for paid memberships and probably receive lots of extra psychic-related spam. In the interest of this article, it was tempting to pay $9.95 for a one-week membership to be able to speak authoritatively on what paying members see. After all, as the site says, $9.95 is “less than the cost of ONE natal chart!” In the end, it seemed unwise to trust credit card information to people who make their living hearing voices.
The stated goals of the site are to “empower, enlighten, educate, entertain, energize, and evolve.” As website host Stephanie McWilliams puts it “Think of us as your own personal metaphysical GPS.”
The marketing of the site makes sense. Without leaving home, a buyer can interact with semi-famous and soon to be semi-famous people who claim to have all of life’s answers. Without exposing oneself to ridicule or shady parts of town, one can indulge any number of superstitions and fantasies about magic.
For the greater part of the psychic-believing public, sites like Infinite Quest may be harmless entertainment akin to playing with a Ouija board by candlelight on a stormy night. It is troubling, however, to ponder those for whom this is more than entertainment. Some believers will spend large amounts of money and make life decisions based on advice that is essentially guesswork and chance.
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