Why People Believe Weird Things

Final summary

The key message in this book:

Pseudoscience isn’t comparable with real science. It isn’t based on facts, but rather on superstitious belief or manipulation. Yet many people still believe in pseudoscientific or supernatural theories, some of which can be harmful, such as creationism or Holocaust denial. We need to stand up against pseudoscience by using rational, scientific arguments against them.

Actionable advice:

Don’t go to a psychic.

They don’t have magical powers – they’re just good at reading people’s body language and making educated guesses about their personal lives. They might’ve even researched you in advance, which is especially easy if you post information about yourself online. An accurate reading doesn’t mean they have psychic powers, it only means they’re good at faking them.

Suggested further reading: Going Clear by Lawrence Wright

Going Clear offers a rare glimpse into the secret history and beliefs of Scientology as well as the conflicted biography of its founder L. Ron Hubbard. It also details some of the Church’s darker qualities: a tooth and nail method of managing criticism and systematic approach to celebrity recruitment.