Vanakkam. This is a new column on the Call, and it not only features the handsome face of Ricky the Maine Coon, but will link in further installments to a variety of pro-science sources on various topics, including but not limited to scientific claims, paranormal and pseudoscientific claims, medical controversies, in any event the full range of topics addressed in skeptical and science communication circles.
I will not address purely political or religious claims, only when politics or religion intersect with science, skepticism, or critical thinking. It is not my aim to ruffle feathers, stir the pot, or mix any masala.
Here, I will generally refrain from linking to scientifically and medically questionable sources, only doing so when that’s done in an ethical and effective manner in a way that does not benefit those sources from being linked to from this blog.
This is a roundup of some 5-10 links, presented in a way that allows a snapshot of a given claim in each entry with the best public sources online at the time of publishing. Further entries in this column on the topic will contain corrections and updates as more detailed knowledge on the topic advances and errors in the research are uncovered through peer-review, better science journalism, and replication attempts.
Do not expect any one entry to have final say on any matter, as that’s not how science and skepticism work. All conclusions are provisional, pending newer and better evidence.
This post is featured weekly or biweekly on any one of Tuesday, Thursday or Caturday from here on.
I hope to see you then!
Tf. Tk. Tts.