Blog

A theory claims that all living things contain an invisible “life force” that leaves the body at death. Scientists point out that this theory cannot be tested because the life force supposedly cannot be detected by any instruments. According to the chapter’s criteria, what makes this theory unscientific?

A student writes: “I believe climate change is happening. Scientists have been warning us about it for years. My professor says it’s real. Also, the weather has been really weird lately, and polar bears are dying.” What is the most accurate assessment of this passage?

A poll asks 1,500 randomly selected Americans whether they believe in UFOs, with a margin of error of ±3%. Results show 48% believe in UFOs. Which conclusion is most appropriate?

Examine this passage: “Meditation has many benefits. Studies show it reduces stress. Many successful people meditate daily. Meditation improves focus and emotional well-being. Everyone should try meditation.” Is this an argument, and if so, what is its conclusion?

A company advertises: “Switch to our internet service and get speeds up to 500% faster!” In the fine print, you discover they’re comparing their highest-tier plan to competitors’ lowest-tier plans. What makes this comparison problematic?

Creationism claims that the Earth is 6,000 to 10,000 years old and that a worldwide flood deposited all fossil layers. According to the chapter, why do scientists reject this claim?

Project Alpha involved two young magicians who convinced researchers at a university laboratory that they had genuine psychic powers. The researchers tested them for three years before the magicians revealed the deception. Analyze what this case reveals about why scientists need to guard against deception in parapsychology research, and explain what precautions could have prevented the researchers from being fooled.

What is the key difference between a biased sample and a sample that is simply too small?

Which of the following arguments is VALID but UNSOUND?

Benjamin Franklin investigated Franz Mesmer’s claims about “animal magnetism” by blindfolding subjects and telling them they were being magnetized when they weren’t. The subjects still reported feeling the effects. What did this experiment demonstrate?