Pseudoscience

1. Pseudoscience A belief based on evidence that does not adhere to scientific principles: Replicability – can repeat a test in exactly the same way to test for reliability Falsifiability – need to be able to test an idea to see if it could be wrong Objectivity – observable and measurable phenomena

2. Mousseau (2003) • Comparison of parapsychology and mainstream psychology journals. • Content analysis. • Less empirical data than scientific journals (ps) • Less experimental methods used than scientific journals. (ps) • Cite own work. (ps) • Have falsified ideas more than scientific journals. (s)

3. Parapsychology consists of irrefutable hypotheses that cannot be falsified. If a test shows no sign of ESP that would appear to falsify it, however there are explanations for why it hasn’t occurred – such as sceptics present. The Ganzfeld procedure is an easily replicable experimental procedure to test for ESP. Mousseau found parapsychology uses less empirical data and experimental methods than other sciences. Universities offer Para-psychology. Lack of carefully controlled replicable research – if a study is not replicated with the same results it puts the original results in doubt. The nature of the subject is ANOMALISTIC – it is not supposed to fit into existing principles. It doesn’t fit into scientific principles. Mousseau found parapsychology does falsify ideas The AAAS acknowledged the Para-psychological association as a member – suggesting that it is a science. Lack of ability to change – theory needs to be able to adapt when new information comes to light.