I found something that fascinates me. Something intriguing and stimulating. An obsession if you will. Skepticism has become more than a hobby for me and it’s driving me crazy. Much to his chagrin, I sit and bitch at my husband about all the insane wooishness that exists on this planet. There’s not much usefulness in this obsession of mine. It’s useful in the way that I know that I and my family won’t get suckered by the charlatans and snake oil salesmen, but what can I do for others? Daniel Loxton has been kind enough to give his publication “What do I do Next?” to everyone for free. It lists 105 ways of getting the word out and bringing skepticism out of the closet and into the mainstream. While I do some of the things, there are many that I just don’t think I would be capable of doing. Skepticism requires confidence and a thick skin. Sadly, I have neither and this is a barrier that keeps me from going further. I would love to find a way of making money with my newly found fascination. When one finds something that interests them so much, they try to find a way to make some cash and thusly using the time usually wasted with such a preoccupation wisely.
Some things I considered was teaching a class in critical thinking. Again the lack of confidence comes in. I’m just not very good with conflict. That sucks, I know. Another thought was to become a scientific paranormal investigator and follow in the footsteps of the greats, like Joe Nickell. I hope he has an opening for a padawan because I wouldn’t know how to get started.
Skeptics get a bad rap and I honestly don't know why. We are only interested in helping people and keeping them safe and keeping their hard earned money in their pockets. Prominent skeptics expose charlatans and keep science in the forefront. Supertitious thinking is examined and rejected. Why do people consider these things bad? Folks don't like having their bubbles burst and prefer the warm fuzzies they feel when immersed in delusion. Plus they just don't want to look stupid when proven wrong. Understandable.
I hope I can one day step out of my own bubble and help skepticism move forward which, from what I can tell, it seems to be doing. There is still much work to be done though, and I’d love to be able to do my part.
Some things I considered was teaching a class in critical thinking. Again the lack of confidence comes in. I’m just not very good with conflict. That sucks, I know. Another thought was to become a scientific paranormal investigator and follow in the footsteps of the greats, like Joe Nickell. I hope he has an opening for a padawan because I wouldn’t know how to get started.
Skeptics get a bad rap and I honestly don't know why. We are only interested in helping people and keeping them safe and keeping their hard earned money in their pockets. Prominent skeptics expose charlatans and keep science in the forefront. Supertitious thinking is examined and rejected. Why do people consider these things bad? Folks don't like having their bubbles burst and prefer the warm fuzzies they feel when immersed in delusion. Plus they just don't want to look stupid when proven wrong. Understandable.
I hope I can one day step out of my own bubble and help skepticism move forward which, from what I can tell, it seems to be doing. There is still much work to be done though, and I’d love to be able to do my part.
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