In these complicated and confusing times we
are being bombarded daily with new ‘scientific’ facts, unfamiliar terminology,
and claims for as yet unproven cures. It is enough to truly make one’s head
spin. We all need a framework to examine and test the claims that seem to be
based on science but often are not.
The best way to investigate a questionable
scientific-sounding claim is to ask good questions. You can remember the
following three sets of questions using the acronym SAP. A “sap” is a fool, and
no one wants to be fooled by misinformation!
1) Sources
2) Author
Where did the claim come from?
Is the claim made by a qualified scientist, a reputable group or website?
Can
you even tell who the author is?
3) Purpose
Why was the information made
available?
Is it because somebody is selling something? In which case we should
be extra careful before believing what they say.
Is the purpose to stir up your
emotions, to change your vote, or to provide information?
Do well-qualified people have a different point of view than the one presented?
Science is the pursuit of explanations of
the natural world. It is deeply rooted in the minds of human beings, who for
millennia have demonstrated a need to understand the world around them. A full discussion of the nature of science
requires more than this one page.
However, if you want to more closely
examine ‘science – fact or fiction,’ WGBH’s NOVA, Andy Zucker and our founder
Penny Noyce created a FREE one-week unit for grades 6-12 called “Resisting
Scientific Misinformation,” available HERE.
HERE is a list of organizations that
might have reliable advice and answers to some of your questions.
Don’t be a SAP – stay informed…and stay safe.
The Tumblehome Team
