Tag Archives: scientific consensus

Science is a path to knowledge

There are a lot of misconceptions about what science actually is, and, as a result, there are a lot of incorrect conclusions about the reliability and utility of science. I frequently encounter people who expect science to give absolute answers. … Continue reading

Posted in Nature of Science | Tagged , | 29 Comments

The overwhelming consensus on climate change

The climate is changing, and we are the primary cause. These are simple facts that are supported by a vast body of evidence and agreed upon by virtually allcr experts. Nevertheless, many people continue to think that the science isn’t … Continue reading

Posted in Global Warming, Nature of Science | Tagged , , , , | 75 Comments

How to find and access peer-reviewed studies (for free)

The peer-reviewed literature is where scientists publish their research, and it is the source for scientific information. As a result, I spend a lot of time on this blog talking about it. I have explained how the peer-review system works … Continue reading

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Don’t cherry pick your experts

The appeal to authority fallacy is one of the most common logical fallacies in internet debates. It is a favorite tactic among climate change deniers, anti-vaccers, young earth creationists, and pretty much anyone else who rejects “mainstream” science. I previously … Continue reading

Posted in Global Warming, Rules of Logic | Tagged , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Windows into Science: Scientific Conferences

I am writing this on my way home from attending two scientific conferences. These meetings are critical components of the modern scientific enterprise, and they provide a lot of insights into how science works, so I thought it would be … Continue reading

Posted in Nature of Science | Tagged | 6 Comments