Skepticism - An attitude of doubt towards the veracity of certain concepts.

Skepticism reflects an attitude of doubt towards the veracity of a certain concept. With reference to the paranormal, skeptics make up a significant portion of those who express interest in such phenomena. Skepticism does not refer to those who refuse to believe in the paranormal. Rather, it applies to people who remain unconvinced until presented with adequate proof. Thus, the skeptic’s position is perhaps best summed up by author Carl Sagan who stated, “extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.”

Although anyone can experience skepticism, some researchers have made this concept a personal philosophy. They have established themselves as self-proclaimed skeptics and even formed professional communities. The goal of the “scientific skeptic” is not to blindly reject claims, but, rather, to apply reason to every event. Essentially, scientific skepticism involves utilizing critical analysis to confirm or deny claims lacking conclusive support. This field specifically focuses on those phenomena which seem implausible but are accepted by many.

Some skeptics have actually aided the cause of paranormal research. Most notably, the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry aims to promote the rational, scientific investigation of paranormal phenomena. The Committee was founded in 1976 by a self-proclaimed scientific skeptic, Paul Kurtz. Since then, it has published articles, organized conferences, produced documentaries, and created a network of researchers devoted to logically evaluating paranormal claims. Topics they have analyzed include UFOs, cryptozoology, psychic abilities, alternative medicine, and astrology.

Another prominent organization is The Skeptics Society, which seeks to use science to counteract the spread of superstition and pseudoscientific theories. The Society conducts its own investigations and sponsors informational lectures. It also publishes Skeptic magazine, which debuted more than fifteen years ago. The magazine boasts approximately 50,000 readers and posts regular podcasts on the internet. Topics of interest to the Society range widely from paranormal claims to conspiracy theories to diet fads.

Some paranormal skeptics have taken on the official role of “debunkers.” These researchers focus specifically on disproving paranormal claims. Rather than conduct objective inquiries, debunkers seek only to expose fallacies within the phenomena they study. Due to their passionate disapproval, debunkers frequently cause debate and controversy. In extreme cases, debunkers neglect to accept evidence which contradicts their beliefs. Such persons are referred to as “pseudoskeptics” and generally meet with disapproval from the greater skeptic community.

Skepticism requires an open mind. It is not the stubborn rejection of ideas, but, rather, a desire to see compelling proof before admitting acceptance. The skeptic will accept any claim that can be confirmed with substantial evidence. Thus, skepticism is a rational approach to inquiry used by many who refuse to accept phenomena for which there is no proof.