I constantly find myself using the term ‘red flag’ whenever I notice something suspicious. I’m not at all sure many people know what I mean when I say it, though. It’s a skeptical term meaning, “Watch out, there is something fishy here.” Here is an amusing entry from RationalWiki citing some common red flags. I made this today.
I’m reading an excellent book on critical thinking by Christopher DiCarlo called How to Be a Really Good Pain in the Ass. I heard an interview with him on Freethought Radio (I’m sensing a trend), and I thought I’d check it out. I didn’t find too much stuff online about the book, so I’m posting this talk. It’s pretty long, but it presents the main questions he raises in his book: How do humans go about investigating truth claims? What’s the difference between natural and supernatural worldviews? It’s top-notch skepticism and enjoyable reading. Check it out.
This is an awesome optical illusion which serves to teach us a little lesson not just about homeopathy, but everything else as well. Don’t trust your perceptions; they are very probably missing something. When it really matters – i.e. when you need a doctor, etc… – remember that just because the lines seem bent doesn’t mean they are. Apply ruler!
For the full experience you must go here. (Via Edzard Ernst)
Marc Di Martino 