| the purported ability to move or deform inanimate objects, as metal spoons, through mental processes. |
psychokinesis psy·cho·ki·ne·sis (sī'kō-kĭ-nē'sĭs, -kī-)
n. pl. psy·cho·ki·ne·ses (-sēz)
Abbr. PK
An uncontrolled, maniacal outburst, resulting from defective inhibition.
The production or control of motion, especially in inanimate and remote objects, purportedly by the exercise of psychic powers.
telekinesis
in parapsychology, the action of mind on matter, in which objects are caused to move or change as a result of mental concentration upon them. The physical nature of psychokinetic (PK) effects contrasts with the cognitive quality of extrasensory perception (ESP), the other major grouping of parapsychological phenomena. Levitation is said to result from powers of psychokinesis; such displays are common, though fraudulent, in theatrical magic. In PK tests, the subject attempts by thinking or willing to influence thrown dice, causing a certain die face to turn up or causing the die to land in a certain area. Experimental results, as with other parapsychological phenomena, have been inconclusive.
Learn more about telekinesis with a free trial on Britannica.com.