19May2012

Simon Singh – The Case for Libel Reform | For Good Reason

Simon Singh details recent news regarding the libel case brought against him by the British Chiropractic Association for an article he wrote in the Guardian criticizing chiropractic. He talks about English libel laws, and explains why he says [...]

Deirdre Barrett – Supernormal Stimuli | For Good Reason

Deirdre Barrett talks about supernormal stimuli, which are exaggerated versions of natural stimuli to which there are existing instinctual responses. She discusses how our evolved instincts are overwhelmed by technological advances and other [...]

Victor Stenger – The Search for Cosmic Consciousness | For Good Reason

Vic Stenger talks about the limits of science, and whether scientists should be critical of religion and the paranormal, or if such sorts of claims are out of the bounds of science, and therefore beyond criticism. He discusses the academic and [...]

Paul Provenza – Satiristas | For Good Reason

Paul Provenza, the celebrated comic and critic, talks about his book Satiristas, which focuses on rationalist issues through the lens of transgressive and subversive comedy. He explores the social criticism of the biggest names in comedy, and [...]

2012 Pigasus Awards Announcement

Since 1997, the JREF’s annual Pigasus Awards have been bestowed on the most deserving charlatans, swindlers, psychics, pseudo-scientists, and faith healers—and on their credulous enablers, too. The awards are named for both the mythical [...]

Dr. David Gorski – (So-Called) Complimentary and Alternative Medicine | For Good Reason

Dr. Gorski defines complementary, alternative and integrative medicine and contrasts it with science-based medicine. He talks about whether its acceptance is growing. He debates to what extent massage therapy and aromatherapy are examples of [...]

Joe Nickell – Why Investigate the Paranormal | For Good Reason

Joe Nickell explains why he investigates the paranormal, as opposed to merely pronouncing his skepticism of it. He talks about his training as a detective and why it was formative, along with his background in magic. He explains why field experience [...]

Paul Kurtz – Skepticism and Religion | For Good Reason

Paul Kurtz talks about how skepticism is continuous with the methods of science, and why skepticism and science should apply to religion. He explains why he rejects the traditional is/ought distinction in the philosophy of science, and why he [...]

Paul Kurtz – Exuberant Skepticism | For Good Reason

Paul Kurtz discusses his new book Exuberant Skepticism. He details the origins of the contemporary skeptics movement, and whether or not it has developed according to plan. He contends that skeptical doubt is an antidote to foolish beliefs but [...]

James Randi – My Start in Magic and Skepticism | For Good Reason

James Randi describes his start in magic, and early experiences he had that inspired him toward skepticism, including mentalism shows when audience members believed him to be psychic, and sought financial advice. He talks about early predictions [...]