A collection of potential subjects for extrasensory perception experiments, typically involving descriptions or images held in secrecy from the participants, forms the basis of such studies. For instance, a sealed envelope containing a photograph of a specific location, unknown to the viewer, might serve as the focus of a session.
The selection and management of these subjects are crucial for maintaining the integrity and scientific rigor of parapsychological research. A well-constructed assortment helps minimize bias and ensures a diverse range of targets, leading to more reliable results. Historically, the development of structured methodologies for these collections coincided with increased efforts to formalize and quantify parapsychological investigations, moving away from anecdotal evidence toward more controlled experimentation.