Illusory Pattern Perception

On page 30 of the February issue of Scientific American, Michael Shermer writes about a study recently published in Science, entitled "Lacking Control Increases Illusory Pattern Perception." Schermer writes: "Defining 'illusory pattern perception'... as 'the identification of a coherent and meaningful interrelationship among a set of random or unrelated stimuli ... (such as the tendency to perceive false correlations, see imaginary figures, form superstitious rituals, and embrace conspiracy beliefs, among others),' the researchers' thesis was that 'when individuals are unable to gain a sense of control objectively, they will try to gain it perceptually.' "

As I read Schermer's column, it struck me that this thesis explains a lot: not only about belief systems, but also about common perceptions amongst cancer victims and their friends and loved ones. A diagnosis of advanced cancer is certainly conducive to losing a sense of control!