by 
The Curious Bag
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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Most Scientists Reject
Dowsing is the attempt to discover water by means of a dowsing rod--a forked wooden stick or an L-shaped brass rod that points downward when the person holding it walks over ground where water is buried. Most scientists reject dowsing, pointing to tests such as a 1992 study done in Kassel, Germany, by the Society for the Scientific Investigation of the Parasciences, an internationally respected skeptic's organization, where the results by the tested dowsers were no better than chance.
On the Other: Many Supporters
Despite the skepticism of the scientific community, dowsing has a large group of supporters. They believe that certain individuals have the power to locate water and other objects through paranormal means. They also point out that Albert Einstein once wrote a letter which contained some positive comments on dowsing.
Bottom Line
The overwhelming consensus of scientists is that dowsing is not valid. Although dowsing still retains many believers, until it is confirmed by unbiased studies it must be regarded as unproven.
Source:
the Skeptic's Dictionary: Dowsing
International Society of Dowsers: Dowsing Explained
International Society of Dowsers: Einstein
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