Pseudoscience and Extraordinary Claims of the Paranormal: A Critical Thinker's Toolkit

by Jonathan C. Smith

Provides readers with a variety of "reality-checking" tools to analyze extraordinary claims and to determine their validity.

Integrates simple yet powerful evaluative tools used by both paranormal believers and skeptics alike

Introduces innovations such as a continuum for ranking paranormal claims and evaluating their implications

Includes an innovative "Critical Thinker’s Toolkit," a systematic approach for performing reality checks on paranormal claims related to astrology, psychics, spiritualism, parapsychology, dream telepathy, mind-over-matter, prayer, life after death, creationism, and more

Explores the five alternative hypotheses to consider when confronting a paranormal claim

Reality Check boxes, integrated into the text, invite students to engage in further discussion and examination of claims

Written in a lively, engaging style for students and general readers alike

432 pages, Hardcover

First published September 4, 2009