Richard Hodgson was a notable figure in the field of psychology and parapsychology during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is best known for his work on spiritualism and his investigations into mediums, individuals who claim to communicate with the spirit world. Hodgson's research often focused on the authenticity of these claims, and he was a prominent member of the Society for Psychical Research. Hodgson was particularly interested in the case of Helen Duncan, a well-known medium, and he conducted extensive studies to evaluate her abilities. His work contributed to the broader understanding of psychic phenomena and the skepticism surrounding it. Hodgson's legacy continues to influence discussions in both psychology and parapsychology today.