Critical Thinking

Praise for the first edition: An excellent, engaging, and highly readable introduction to the paranormal and to the distinction between science and pseudoscience. Should become a favorite in undergraduate psychology courses. Scott O. Lilienfeld, Emory University A very entertaining yet critical examination of virtually the entire gamut of paranormal claims. I strongly recommend this book to everyone who values the pursuit of truth in all things. James Alcock, York University Smith's work will certainly be of interest to psychologists interested in the consequences of cognitive errors, and it is no doubt the best textbook on the market for a course on the psychology of paranormal belief. PsycCRITIQUES, April 2010 Comprehensive and engaging, this new edition of a popular textbook introduces the basics of critical thinking using the claims of pseudoscience and the paranormal. It has been extensively revised, enhanced, and streamlined throughout but retains the lively and dynamic style of the first edition (published as Pseudoscience and Extraordinary Claims of the Paranormal: A Critical Thinker's Toolkit). The text guides readers through the critical thinking process by considering different types of support for claims (sources, logic, and scientific observation) and ruling out alternative explanations. It allows readers to practice and apply their new critical thinking skills on claims of extraordinary cures including energy treatments, complementary/alternative medicine and faith healing as well as four paranormal claims of consequence: astrology, spiritualism and the afterlife, parapsychology, and creationism. It provides clear and open-minded discussions of important issues related to the topic, including the paranormal spectrum, belief justification surveys, the placebo effect, and the relationship between religion and critical thinking. The text couples a conversational, nontechnical narrative with a wealth of student-friendly pedagogical tools, including critical thinking questions, and a study guide for each chapter. As fascinating as it is informative, Critical Thinking arms readers with innovative tools and techniques to evaluate any extraordinary claims that come their way.