#1640
Mentioned in 26 episodes

The Demon-Haunted World

Book • 1995
In 'The Demon-Haunted World,' Carl Sagan warns about the dangers of a scientifically illiterate society.

He argues that the rise of pseudoscience and superstition threatens our ability to make informed decisions and undermines the foundations of democracy.

The book advocates for the use of critical and skeptical thinking, presenting a 'baloney detection kit' to help readers distinguish between scientific evidence and pseudoscientific claims.

Sagan discusses various forms of pseudoscience, including UFO sightings, astrology, and faith healing, and emphasizes the importance of science education and literacy in navigating the complexities of the modern world.

Mentioned by

Mentioned in 26 episodes

Mentioned by Neil deGrasse Tyson, referencing the book's subtitle 'Science as a Candle in the Dark'.
2,418 snips
Neil deGrasse Tyson: The Brutal Truth About Astrology! Our Breath Contains Molecules Jesus Inhaled!
Mentioned by Stephen Dubner, referencing Sagan's concerns about the decline of critical thinking in America.
123 snips
The Vanishing Mr. Feynman
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David McRaney
, quoting Sagan's urging to develop skills of skepticism and curiosity.
91 snips
322 - Intellectual Humility - Tenelle Porter
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Brian Cox
as one of his favorite books, referencing a story about Carl Sagan and a taxi driver.
83 snips
Are We The Universe’s Way of Knowing Itself? With Brian Cox
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David McRaney
, quoting an excerpt that discusses critical thinking and the dangers of losing the ability to question authority.
68 snips
308 - Magical Thinking - Matt Tompkins
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Ann Druyan
as a warning of what happens in a society based on science and high technology, from which most are excluded.
49 snips
Nuclear Winter with Ann Druyan and Brian Toon
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Michael Shermer
when quoting Carl Sagan about dreaming of his deceased parents.
27 snips
Shermer Says 3: Weird Experiences, the Meaning of Dreams, and What Mark Twain Knew About Reality
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David McRaney
when quoting an excerpt about skepticism and magical thinking.
24 snips
334 - Magical Thinking - Matt Tompkins (rebroadcast)
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Michael Moynihan
as having enriched his life and in reference to re-enchanting the world without superstition.
24 snips
UNLOCKED: Atheist in a Foxhole, w/ the Great Sebastian Junger

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