Skeptic: Promoting Science and Critical Thinking

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Skeptical Activism:
Fight Fraud & Pseudoscience!

There are as many ways to “be a skeptic” as there are individual skeptics. For some, the value of the community of skeptics is community itself; for others, it is the opportunity for reflection and self-improvement, while for others, it is an area of purely academic interest.

And then, there are skeptics who see themselves as part of a movement. For those people, skepticism is a mission: an organized effort to discover reality, to expose fraud — and to help people.

Learn more about this type of “activist” skepticism below. Then share your views at www.skepticforum.com/activism

Where Do We Go From Here?

In 2007, Junior Skeptic Editor Daniel Loxton called for a renewed focus on classical skeptical activism in an article entitled “Where Do We Go From Here?” This insider’s look reviews the history of the skeptics movement, and argues that combatting paranormal fraud is an “ethical imperative. It’s the right thing to do, and that’s all.”

What Do I Do Next?

Continuing the theme of skeptical activism, Daniel Loxton convened a panel of 13 leading skeptics to discuss 105 practical things you can do to promote science and advance skepticism. This in-depth 2009 article, entitled “What Do I Do Next?” is available in two versions: a 30,000 word panel discussion-format version (PDF), and a point-form Quick Reference Guide (html).

Whether you’re a bright new skeptic or a long-time veteran, this point-by-point panel discussion is packed with ideas you’ll find provocative and valuable.

Activism on Skepticality

Skeptic magazine’s Official Podcast frequently addresses the topic of skeptical activism. Listen to free episodes with this theme, including:

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