Monday, May 17, 2010

New Scientist: Age Of Denial

 

 

# 4573

 

 

 

New Scientist is a weekly science magazine that’s been around since the mid-1950s, and covers recent developments in science and technology.   While it isn’t a peer reviewed journal, it is well respected, and is read by both scientists and the general public.

 

image

 

This week, New Scientist presents six opinion pieces on denialism, how it differs from skepticism, and how best to combat it. 

 

Given the proliferation of denialism, and the embracing of conspiracy theories by more and more of the public, these articles are well worth your time.

 

 

 
When a sceptic isn't a sceptic

(Image: Joseph Eid / AFP / Getty Images)

There are clear lines between scepticism and denial, but telling them apart can be tricky in the real world, says Michael Shermer. Read more

Why sensible people reject the truth

Good story, shame about the evidence (Image: Chris 
Casciano)

Denialism satisfies deep emotional needs. That makes it easy to encourage and hard to counter, says Debora MacKenzie. Read more

 
How corporations manufacture doubt

Producing a smokescreen (Image: Andrei Pungovschi / AP / 
PA)

If the truth is inconvenient, put up a smokescreen instead. It works wonders for big business, argues Richard Littlemore. Read more

Unleashing a lie

Think diseases spread fast? Lies are faster (Image: 
Saturn Stills / SPL)

It's easy to send a lie flying around the world, and almost impossible to shoot it down, says Jim Giles. Read more

 
Questioning science isn't blasphemy

Is "denier" just another insult? (Image: Rodger
 Bosch / AFP / Getty)

Michael Fitzpatrick argues that calling an opponent a denier is illiberal, intolerant and ineffective. Read more

 
The truth is our only weapon

How should we deal with denialists? (Image: Francis 
Miller / Contributor)

We must let denialists be heard, and respond with patience, vigilance and tireless rebuttal, says Michael Shermer. Read more