Lecture Notes: Science vs. Pseudoscience

Introduction

• Presenter: Dr. Johnson Hoss
• Topic: Differentiating science from pseudoscience

Characteristics of Science

• Willingness to Change:

  • Science adapts to new evidence, refines views to match reality.
  • Example: Adjustments in physics with Einsteinian relativity.

• Peer Review:

  • Essential and ruthless; ensures accuracy and thoroughness.
  • Science builds reputation on evidence and results, not bluster.

• Accountability to New Discoveries:

  • Open to all evidence, not just favorable results.
  • Adjusts previous models rather than dismissing them entirely.

• Inviting Criticism:

  • Science thrives on open criticism and discussion.
  • Criticism is seen as an opportunity to refine and improve.

• Verifiable Results:

  • Results must be reproducible by others.
  • Science relies on solid, measurable evidence.

• Specificity in Claims:

  • Science makes careful, specific claims based on evidence.
  • Medicine and scientific research require rigorous testing.

• Accurate Measurements:

  • Quantifiable and precise data is essential.
  • Example: Measurement of gravitational acceleration.

Characteristics of Pseudoscience

• Fixed Ideas:

  • Relies on dogma, resistant to change despite evidence.
  • Example: Homeopathy and its magical thinking.

• Lack of Peer Review:

  • No rigorous examination by others; resembles ideology.

• Selective Evidence:

  • Only favorable findings are highlighted.
  • Example: Marginal effects in acupuncture studies.

• Resistance to Criticism:

  • Criticism seen as conspiracy against beliefs.
  • Personalization of criticism, lack of openness to being proven wrong.

• Non-repeatable Results:

  • Claims often based on results that can’t be reproduced.
  • Examples: Healing based on aura or chi.

• Widespread Claims:

  • Often claim broad effectiveness without evidence.
  • Example: Alternative medicines like shark cartilage.

• Fuzzy Measurements:

  • Ambiguity and lack of precise data.
  • Dependence on concepts that evade quantification.

Conclusion

• Science and pseudoscience differ fundamentally in approach and methodology.
• Emphasized importance of evidence, adaptability, and rigorous testing in science.
• Pseudoscience is characterized by dogma, lack of transparency, and unverifiable claims.