In her review of Knowing What We Know by Simon Winchester and Informatica by Alex Wright, Michelle Ainsworth explores how these books delve into the history of knowledge transmission, from ancient practices to modern technologies. The review highlights each book’s strengths in presenting interdisciplinary narratives, balancing compelling storytelling with in-depth analysis of how information systems have evolved to cope with today’s digital age.
Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed revealed a supposed conspiracy to suppress Intelligent Design (ID) within academia. The article reflects on the film’s production, its controversial use of deception, and the author’s shift from supporting ID to embracing open scientific inquiry. It emphasizes the importance of dialogue over division in the science versus religion debate.
This article features two thought-provoking interviews with Christopher Rufo and Yascha Mounk, both critiquing identity politics and its effects on modern society. Rufo explores the rise of Critical Race Theory (CRT), its Marxist roots, and the growing influence of DEI policies. Mounk discusses the dangers of cultural appropriation debates, identity politics in institutions, and the risks of left-wing authoritarianism.
Explore how ancient sporting rivalries in Byzantium and modern identity politics in Sri Lanka reveal the deep dangers of tribalism. This historical analysis sheds light on how seemingly trivial divisions can fuel violence and highlights the consequences of identity politics in shaping society, governance, and conflict.
John D. Van Dyke examines how modern standards are applied to older entertainment, often leading to censorship. From Disney films to 1980s comedies, the article argues that removing offensive scenes erases history, making it harder to understand societal evolution. It promotes contextual viewing as a tool for learning rather than censorship.
Witch-hunting persists in Africa, particularly Malawi, where hundreds face persecution, torture, and death each year due to witchcraft accusations. Leo Igwe explores the socio-cultural, religious, and political factors fueling these brutal practices and highlights advocacy efforts to end witch-hunting by 2030, led by organizations like the Advocacy for Alleged Witches.
What if the pursuit of social justice on college campuses was silencing free speech and stifling intellectual diversity? This provocative article delves into the rise of critical theories in academia, exposing a growing tension between traditional liberal values and a new, more radical approach to social justice. As professors increasingly use classrooms for political activism, students face a crucial dilemma: speak up or stay silent? Discover how this ideological shift is reshaping higher education and what it means for the…
In this thought-provoking piece, three behavioral scientists argue that the field has strayed from fundamental scientific principles in its pursuit of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) goals. They contend that an overreliance on “lived experience,” poor measurement practices, and confusion between correlation and causation have led to flawed research and misguided policies. The authors offer a critical examination of popular DEI concepts and suggest ways to get behavioral science back on track with rigorous, objective methods.
New research challenges common assumptions about the gender pay gap and women’s career advancement. This article examines economic studies revealing how factors like career choices, work hours, and job preferences contribute to wage disparities between men and women. It explores the “educational-gender-equality paradox” and questions the effectiveness of quotas in addressing workplace inequality. Marc Defant shares insights into the complex interplay of personal decisions, societal expectations, and labor market dynamics shaping gender differences in the workforce.
This article explores the controversial debate surrounding repatriation laws and their impact on archaeological research. Dr. Elizabeth Weiss recounts her experiences facing academic censorship and professional retaliation after publishing a book critical of repatriation policies. She argues that prioritizing Native American oral traditions over scientific evidence hinders objective study of human remains and artifacts. The piece raises thought-provoking questions about academic freedom, the role of identity politics in science, and the future of anthropological research.
UCLA professor of sociology, Bradley Campbell, explores the tension between scientific and ideological approaches in sociology, particularly in the context of social justice efforts. It critiques critical theory’s dominance and argues for a more balanced, evidence-based approach to understanding and addressing social issues within liberal democratic frameworks.
Carol Tavris explores the concept of cancel culture, its historical context, and its implications for free speech and open discourse, highlighting examples from academia, media, and public life, arguing that cancel culture stifles intellectual diversity and promotes conformity. The author emphasizes the need for understanding and engaging with differing perspectives to preserve the principles of free expression.
Michael Shermer contrasts dystopian fears and utopian visions on artificial intelligence (AI), and proposes an intriguing alternative: “protopia.” What if we embrace a gradual and optimistic approach to AI, where each year brings incremental improvements to our lives? Can we harness the power of technology to amplify the good while mitigating the risks? Dive into the article and unlock the fascinating world of AI’s promises and challenges.
Despite popular conspiracy theories, the evidence strongly supports the guilt of Bruno Richard Hauptmann in the Lindbergh kidnapping and Julius and Ethel Rosenberg in espionage. Sensationalism and conspiracy theories persistently promote their innocence, but these narratives often ignore or distort substantial evidence against them.
Peter Kassan examines the hype and limitations of artificial intelligence chatbots and the pursuit of artificial general intelligence (AGI).
Brooklyn-based avant-pop music producer, Kate Brunotts, discusses the potential impact of artificial intelligence on artists and the need for stronger protections for their intellectual property rights.
A conversation between UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Tesla CEO Elon Musk regarding the risks and safety of artificial intelligence (AI), as well as the need for governments to collaborate and develop expertise in managing these risks.
Russell T. Warne discusses lessons learned from artificial intelligence regarding the human mind, including discussions on sentience, errors made by AI programs, creativity, and the propensity for AI programs to fabricate information.
Skeptic’s Senior Editor, Frank Miele, discusses the differences between human intelligence and artificial intelligence, including their capabilities, limitations, and potential applications.
Laith Al-Shawaf shares his experience attending a New Age festival undercover and exploring the beliefs and practices of the attendees.
