J.B. Rhine, or Joseph B. Rhine, was an American botanist and parapsychologist, best known for his pioneering work in the field of parapsychology. Born in 1895, he became a prominent figure at Duke University, where he established the first laboratory dedicated to the scientific study of psychic phenomena. Rhine is particularly recognized for his research on extrasensory perception (ESP) and psychokinesis. He developed the famous Zener cards, a set of cards used in experiments to test psychic abilities. His work laid the foundation for future studies in the field, sparking both interest and controversy in the scientific community.