Why People Believe Weird Things

Shermer's central point is:

• science requires a full set of data, both positive and negative results.

• reason always works to find truth in science.

• a 50% success rate is necessary in science.

• Coin flip models help narrow possible outcomes

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Shermer's claim suggests that science and religion are different because

• religion requires greater faith.

• science can make an explanation by using" linguistic placeholders" for whatever it cannot prove.

• religious causal claims are simple and straightforward.

• scientific claims must be subject to testing while religious claims are not.

Shemer implicitly suggest that cognitive bias (More than one answer is possible)

• Keeps individuals focused on matters that are deeply important to them

• Help individuals develop clear theories that can be verified by data

• May prevent theories from being a balance of ideas and data

• is a result of pattern-seeking where people wish to confirm what they think will happen

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