Weird science – the what and the why (1)
I’ve had a terrific day at the Conway Hall in central London attending an event called “Weird Science” organised by the Centre for Inquiry and the Ethical Society.
Four very clever and entertaining speakers each had a one-hour slot:
- Richard Wiseman, former magician and now professor based at the University of Hertfordshire, discussed the psychology of perception with reference to various paranormal phenomenon – more information here.
- Chris French, professor of psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London, looked at such bizarre beliefs as dowsing and backwards Satanic messages – more information here.
- Stephen Law, senior lecturer in philosophy at Heythrop College, University of London, explained the meaning of evidence and demolished the arguments of young earth creationism – more information here.
- Ben Goldacre, doctor and journalist, attacked the role of compliant scientists, the popular media, and believing citizens in the misreporting of so-called scientific studies – more information here.
I have already written features for my web site about “How to think critically” and “The reason for truth” and, following today’s event, I’m determined to work up a new section on “Why people believe weird things” (watch this space!).