Recent videos of animals fleeing Yellowstone Park have many tourists and local residents concerned that a volcanic eruption may be imminent.... I take a closer look at the story... you can read it HERE.
Media Literacy
Do Cell Phone ‘Radiation Shields’ Work?
Cell-phone shields may do little to protect you -- and scientists say they're unnecessary. My brief investigation into a company that took out a full page ad in the New York Times Science(!) section can be read HERE.
Debunking the ‘Oil Pulling’ Medical Pseudoscience
The latest health fad making the rounds is something called “oil pulling,” an ancient Indian practice in which people cleanse their mouths (and bodies) of toxins by swishing a vegetable oil (such as olive, coconut, or sunflower) in the mouth for 20 minutes and then...
I’m Quoted in Kansas City Star on Death by Sunburst!
A huge solar flare belched a cloud of charged particles into Earth’s path. But other than frying telegraph lines, the electromagnetic collision caused little stir in the world. But how real is the danger of another massive sunburst? I add my two cents in this story,...
Should Organ Sales Be Legal?
In some countries selling one's organs is perfectly legal. In the United States, it is against the law, although many people have suggested that legalizing the trade would save lives and offer real social benefits. Others find it an ethically dubious proposition. You...
New Anthology Includes Me with William Safire, Jessica Valenti, and Al Gore
My chapter in a new book: "In a vibrant four-color format, 'The Sundance Reader' features more than 70 essays drawn from a range of academic disciplines and professions. This rich collection of engaging essays and articles emphasizes critical thinking, careful...
My article on the Loch Ness Monster, on NBC News!
It seems that the Loch Ness Monster(s) haven't been seen since 2012. Here's why this spells real trouble for Nessie(s)--assuming, of course, they exist... You can read the piece HERE.
Crying wolf: Lies and made-up police sketches of attackers
Interesting, short piece on Doubtful News about false reports of crimes, including abductions and assaults. It's amazing what people will lie about... You can read it HERE.
Why We Do This: Revisiting the Higher Values of Skeptical Inquiry
An interesting and insightful overview of the values of skepticism, from the editor of Skeptical Inquirer magazine, you can read it HERE.
Self-Immolation: The Macabre Mystery
Why would someone purposely set himself on fire? It happened earlier this week in Colorado. My new article on the reasons for self-immolation is now out, you can read it HERE.