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:ID:       509cbe3e-cf95-4bcd-9f61-9cc74aa35a8c
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#+TITLE: Characteristics of Pseudoscience
#+Author: Yann Esposito
#+Date: [2022-06-30]
- tags :: 
- source :: https://www.reddit.com/r/coolguides/comments/plvskm/a_guide_on_how_to_sniff_out_pseudoscience/

* 11 points

1. Is *UNFALSIFIABLE* (can't be proven wrong): Makes vague or unobservable claims
2. Relies heavily on *ANECDOTES*, personal experiences, and testimonials
3. *CHERRY PICKS* confirming evidence while ignoring/minimizing disconfirming evidence
4. Uses *TECHNOBABBLE*: words that sound scientific but don't make sense
5. Lacks *PLAUSIBLE MECHANISM*: Now way to explain it based on existing knowledge
6. Is *UNCHANGING*: Doesn't self-correct or progress
7. Makes *EXTRAORDINARY/EXAGERATED CLAIMS* with insufficient evidence
8. Professes *CERTAINTY*: Talks of "proof", with great confidence
9. Commits *LOGICAL FALLACIES*: Arguments contain errors in reasoning
10. Lacks *PEER REVIEW*: Goes directly to the public, avoiding scientific scrutinity
11. Claims there's a *CONSPIRACY* to suppress their ideas