Pseudoscience

More than just a collection of factual entries this rich resource explores the difference between scientific and pseudoscientific pursuits in a way that spurs readers to ask questions and formulate answers.What makes science science? How do we tell which assertions beliefs and methods are scientifically sound and which are not? Brian Regal''s authoritative entertaining new reference Pseudoscience: A Critical Encyclopedia gets at the heart of these questions by helping readers understand how the scientific method works how to critically analyze all kinds of evidence and how to sort through long-running myths and current pseudoscience controversies.Ranging from the dawn of history to the present and across world cultures Pseudoscience uses a field of endless fascination as a means of driving home the importance of solid scientific reasoning. The encyclopedia spans the full spectrum of scientific and nonscientific pursuits from chemistry biology psychology and medicine to eugenics religion cryptozoology the occult and paranormal activities. Specific entries focus on general concepts of science the lives of individuals and claims of abilities. Throughout these entries go beyond simply stating facts by constantly engaging readers in a discussion about the very nature of true scientific discovery.