Weirdness!

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In a world full of weird claims and a social media environment awash with wild conspiracy theories, it is no longer enough for scientists, pundits, and activists to simply ask the public to trust science. Rather, with increasing public distrust of science, all must better understand how science works, and why science is essential. By exploring many of the odd beliefs embraced by large sections of the public that are rejected by the scientific mainstream, Weirdness! makes the case for science in a way that pro-science memes and slogans simply can't. Drawing a picture of science that does not rely on checklists or a predetermined scientific method, it takes seriously claims that paranormal phenomena, such as psychic abilities and mythical creatures, might be real, but demonstrates how such phenomena would extend beyond the laws of nature. It rejects a sharp boundary between science and religion, while explaining how to negotiate their real differences. Denials of science cause no end of trouble, but so too does placing blind trust in science. As Weirdness! reminds readers, science should not be seen as a mechanism that takes in data and spits out truth. While science and reason are crucial in uncertain times, it concludes, we must not adopt an unrealistically heroic picture of science and turn rationality into yet another empty slogan.