Scientific skepticism

Scientific skepticism, also known as rational skepticism, is a specific position regarding the truth of claims. It involves questioning the veracity of assertions that lack sufficient scientific evidence. This approach is not the same as philosophical skepticism. Philosophical skepticism questions if humans can even know anything about the world. It is also distinct from methodological skepticism, which is a systematic process of doubting one's own beliefs.

Instead, scientific skeptics focus on examining claims that appear to be unscientific. They aim to determine if these claims are supported by empirical research. They also check if the results are reproducible by others. This process helps extend what we call certified knowledge.

To evaluate these claims, skeptics use several specific tools and criteria. They rely on the scientific method to verify results. One key concept is verifiability, which means checking if a claim can be proven. They also use falsifiability, which is the ability for a claim to be proven false. Skeptics generally discourage accepting ideas based only on faith or anecdotal evidence. They also use a principle called Occam's Razor to judge ideas. They may also apply Morgan's Canon or look at an idea's explanatory power.

They check if a prediction matches the actual results of an experiment. This helps them find conclusions that are reliable and valid.

Within the skeptical community, people often categorize themselves into different styles. One way to group them is by their level of engagement with fringe topics. These are often called "wet" and "dry" skeptics. Dry skeptics may prefer to debunk or ridicule a claim. They do this to avoid giving attention or credence to the promoter. Wet skeptics prefer a slower and more considered way of engaging. They want to avoid appearing sloppy or ill-considered themselves. This distinction shows that there is more than one way to approach an investigation. Both styles aim to protect the integrity of scientific thought.

The roots of this movement can be traced back to the 19th century. During this time, people began to publicly question spiritism and various superstitions. They also began to challenge many forms of pseudoscience.

In 1881, a Dutch group called Vereniging tegen de Kwakzalverij targeted medical quackery. Later, in 1949, a Belgian organization named Comité Para was founded. In 1976, Paul Kurtz and Marcello Truzzi used that group as a template. They founded the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal in Amherst, New York. This group is now known as the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry, or CSI. This organization has inspired many other groups to form around the world.

Many influential thinkers have contributed to the development of these ideas. Paul Kurtz wrote a book titled The New Skepticism in 1992. He argued that skepticism is an essential part of scientific inquiry. Carl Sagan emphasized the need to ask skeptical questions. He wanted people to recognize fraudulent arguments and consider the validity of an argument.

Robert K. Merton introduced Mertonian norms to the discussion. These norms assert that all ideas must undergo rigorous community scrutiny. Other thinkers like Steven Novella describe skepticism as a way to avoid deception. They suggest it helps people avoid the pitfalls of human reason. This commitment to reason and evidence is a core part of the movement.

Skeptics investigate a wide variety of topics that people find interesting or controversial. They often focus on claims that are implausible or contradict accepted science. This includes studying UFOs, cryptids, and various conspiracy theories. They also look at alternative medicine and claims of supernatural abilities, such as tarot reading. Some skeptics, like James Randi, became famous for debunking these claims.

They might also examine the existence of entities like poltergeists or angels. Even though many topics like astrology are debunked repeatedly, they often stay popular. This shows that the work of the skeptic is an ongoing process. They continue to seek supported conclusions rather than just justifying what they already believe.

Skepticism connects to many broader social and academic fields. It is closely tied to humanism, atheism, rationalism, and science education. Some scholars see the movement as a surrogate for institutional science. It provides an organizational structure for investigating fringe topics. However, the movement has also faced internal challenges and criticism. For example, there have been allegations of sexism within the community. In 1985, Mary Coulman identified a disparity between women and men in a skeptic newsletter. Later, in 2011, Rebecca Watson raised issues regarding online harassment and sexism. These discussions show that the movement is a complex part of modern society.