Bio

Adam Tamas Tuboly

1. MTA Lendület Values and Science Research Group, Institute of Philosophy, ELTE Research Centre for the Humanities, Budapest
2. Department of Behavioural Sciences, Medical School, University of Pécs

Abstract

In his last book, Shadows of Science, longtime editor of Skeptical Inquirer Kendrick Frazier lists several examples in which pseudoscientific research hindered valid and promising domains and directions of inquiry because of its blatant claims and off-the-mark methodologies. Lysenkoism set back Soviet research on genetics for decades; the bestseller The Secret Life of Plants discredited plant behavior research for generations; and the well-known Velikovsky Affair obstructed serious discussion of extraterrestrial causes for Earth events. Pseudoscience is notoriously detrimental and dangerous. Philosopher of science Paul Feyerabend has, however, made a strong case for studying them and learning from them with an open mind. While crank theories and pseudosciences have genuinely impeded scientific inquiry and thwarted social progress on many occasions, they also midwifed the birth of modern experimental sciences (alchemy, phrenology, parapsychology) and still offer valuable lessons even for philosophers.

In this talk, my aim and motivation are not to embrace or accept the pseudosciences as they are, but rather that there are indeed valuable and important lessons inherent in their study. I will discuss some of these lessons by showing, through numerous examples, how the study of pseudoscience can teach us about science, ourselves, and society. In doing so, I makes the case that, as philosophers, we should devote more time and energy to engaging with such beliefs and theories to help remedy their harmful effects.

 Tea/coffee, cake and fruit will be served @2pm.