Alec Gill
I came into the area of 'British Superstitions' by accident. That is, whilst training to become a Psychologist, I also became a local historian and author. My specialist interest was Hull's Fishing Community and Industry. I began in 1974 and the work is still ongoing. My research has always centered upon people - the families and trawler men. There is a national saying: "Of all seafarers, there are none more superstitious than fishermen". This statement is certainly true. When I investigated people's lives, their taboo rituals proved to be pivotal to their stories. Therefore I became interested in the topic and this resulted in my longest book, which became the focus of much media attention.
My approach is simple: "Why does superstition still survive in the Age of Science?" Despite 2,000 years of persecution by global religions and 200 years of ridicule by scientists around the world, these 'silly' superstitions are still practiced in modern-day society. My (psychological) answer is: Superstition continues to thrive because it is rooted in a vital emotional need - that is, human survival.
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Framework agreement signed for pioneering Infrastructure Tariff
A new agreement that is expected to raise more that £300 million to help pay for the growth of Milton Keynes has been signed.
Top government official visits Milton Keynes
Communities and Local Government Permanent Secretary, Peter Housden, recently visited Milton Keynes to see how growth is developing in the 'new city' and in particular those areas where MKP is responsible for project delivery.
Annual Review 2006
The MKPC Annual Review is designed to update you on our activities and to highlight some of the year’s major achievements.
