Pseudoscience and the Paranormal

The popularity of the paranormal and pseudosciences has never been greater in our society. For example, nearly half of all high school students "believe" in astrology and a significant fraction also believe in alien abductions or ESP. Alternative medicine is a billion dollar industry in Canada.

What is meant by "paranormal" and "pseudoscience"? How does one distinguish a pseudoscience from a science? What are some examples of pseudoscience's? Why do the media, especially newspapers and television, emphasize the paranormal? Why should we all be concerned about this and work to improve our critical thinking skills? These are just some of the important questions that will be considered in this talk.