The Person Who Introduced Me To Skepticism

 One of the giants of skepticism has died at 92. I first was exposed to him on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson many decades ago. Here and here are collections of YouTube videos from those shows and other media. Here is an example of his ability to expose' psychic powers. Enjoy.

James Randi - Wikipedia

Magic And Skepticism

Click on the link below for a video by Matt Dillahunty that is an interesting and informative presentation of how the use of magic can enlighten people to the truth and value of skepticism/science-based thinking:

Magic and skepticism

Science-Based Thinking

Will science-based thinking ever replace, or at least marginalize, magical thinking?

The Virtues of Science-Based Thinking.

The Uri Geller Defense Of Miracles

"We can’t prove that the Bible’s miracle claims aren’t for real, despite all the precedents, but that’s the way to bet. The plausible natural explanation makes the supernatural explanation unappealing and unnecessary. Only someone with a desire to support a preconception wouldn’t follow the evidence where it leads.

Insights into Bible Miracles from Magician Uri Geller

Science-Based Thinking vs Magic/Faith-Based Thinking

There is a clear difference, and incompatibility, between science-based and magic/faith-based thinking.  Science-based thinking is supported by evidence and leads to justified true belief.  Magic/faith-based thinking is unsupported by evidence and is based on a desire for certainty and comfort.  Let's take a close look at this incompatibility.