Although much has been said and written about coincidences, there is a marked absence when it comes to the development of a comprehensive model that incorporates the many different ways in which they can be understood and explained. One reason for this omission is undoubtedly the sharp divide that exists between those who find coincidences meaningful and those who do not, with the result that the conclusions of the many books and articles on the subject have tended to fall into distinct camps. The Many Faces of Coincidence attempts to remedy this impasse by proposing an inclusive categorisation for coincidences of all shapes and sizes. At the same time, some of the implications arising from the various explanations are explored, including the possibility of an underlying unity of mind and matter constituting the ground of being.

In Coincidence and Counterfactuality, a groundbreaking analysis of plot, Hilary P. Dannenberg sets out to answer the perennial question of how to tell a good story. While plot is among the most integral aspects of storytelling, it is perhaps the least studied aspect of narrative. Using plot theory to chart the development of narrative fiction from the Renaissance to the present, Dannenberg demonstrates how the novel has evolved over time and how writers have developed increasingly complex narrative strategies that tap into key cognitive parameters familiar to the reader from real-life experience. ø Dannenberg proposes a new, multidimensional theory for analyzing time and space in narrative fiction, then uses this theory to trace the historical evolution of narrative fiction by focusing on coincidence and counterfactuality. These two key plot strategiesøare constructed around pivotal moments when characters? life trajectories, or sometimes the paths of history, converge or diverge. The study?s rich historical and textual scope reveals how narrative traditions and genres such as romance and realism or science fiction and historiographic metafiction, rather than being separated by clear boundaries are in fact in a continual process of interaction and cross-fertilization. In highlighting critical stages in the historical development of narrative fiction, the study produces new readings of works by pinpointing the innovative role played by particular authors in this evolutionary process. Dannenberg?s original investigation of plot patterns is interdisciplinary, incorporating research from narrative theory, cognitive approaches to literature, social psychology, possible worlds theory, and feminist approaches to narrative.

We've all experienced or heard of surprising events and unexplainable coincidences—money that seems to come from nowhere, a spontaneous idea that turns into a life-changing solution, meeting our soulmate on a flight we weren't supposed to take, or families being reunited by "accident" after years of separation. Often these coincidences are explained as being controlled by a higher power or pure chance. But for the first time since Carl Jung's work, comes bold new research that explains scientifically how we can identify, understand, and perhaps even control the frequency of coincidences in our everyday lives. Bernard Beitman, a leading expert on Coincidence Studies, proposes a greater personal responsibility which depends partly upon newly discovered "grid cells" located in the brain, near the hippocampus. But neuroscience cannot complete the entire puzzle, and in this fascinating guide, Beitman provides the missing piece. From analyzing true stories of synchronicity from around the globe and throughout history, he shares key personality characteristics and situational factors that contribute to the occurrence of meaningful coincidences in our lives. Where other books on coincidences tend to be theoretical, inspirational, or story collections only, Beitman's book is the first to provide a scientific understanding and practical ways in which readers can use them in their own lives. He reveals: How to activate your observing self so you don't miss synchronistic moments How serendipity can offer insights into solving problems or making difficult decisions Why stress activates meaningful coincidences Which states of mind impede our ability to experience synchronicity How to interpret the meaning of a coincidence Why being attuned to coincidences is a learned skill—and how to hone your sensitivity.

How does chance enter our world? And why is so much not predictable? In an understandable, exciting and amusing narrative, the author takes us into the world of chemistry, quantum physics and biology. Touching on astronomy and philosophy, we witness a rewarding journey of discovery. In the process, he develops a completely new view of chance based on the laws of nature. Here, the omnipresent non-equilibrium plays an extremely decisive role, because it generates the complex structures in our world. Finally, on this basis, he presents an equally simple and captivating hypothesis on the nature of time. This non-fiction book provides a deep insight into the fascination of research, the agonizing search for fundamental understanding, and the struggle for scientific knowledge.

Although many persons navigating through a journey of grief have sensed a deceased loved one’s presence in the room, dreamed of their deceased loved one, or had deathbed visions, they are afraid to reveal these experiences. They fear being laughed at, not believed, dismissed, or called crazy. So, what are the dying and deceased trying to tell us that others are afraid to believe and hear? Dr. Dee Stern relies on her experience as a hospital chaplain, parish/bereavement minister and grief therapist to share insights into the research and real-life experiences behind these different phenomena. This is to clear up confusion, help stop the ridicule, and remind others that what we say to the bereaved and others can make a big difference in not just their lives, but also ours. Dr. Stern identifies signs of the past, future, and present that are right in front of us. She shares the results of scientific research about various phenomena, and sites many stories from the bereaved about what they experienced from their deceased loved ones as well as insights into her own personal experiences as she witnessed signs from the dying. Signs or Coincidence? shares real-life stories and research data from a grief therapist that encourages others to listen to and support those grieving and receiving messages from the dying and the deceased.

"A valuable guide book that... leads us, step by step, into communication with our deeper subconscious nature and nudges open the gate to our inner self." - Dale Graff 'Frank Joseph boldly and eloquently connects us to a larger world.' - Thomas Ropp We have all experienced inexplicable coincidences - such as thinking about an old friend before the phone rings and it happens to be that old friend. The Power of Coincidence reveals that such events are not random, but crucial pieces in the puzzle of our lives. Author Frank Joseph shows us how to recognize instances of meaningful coincidence (or 'synchronicity' as it was called by Jung) and the guidance they offer in finding our true path in life. Includes instructions on how to keep a personal journal of meaningful coincidences, revealing the significant patterns and cycles within your life.