SCIENCE MYTHS IN SCEPTICISM & PARAPSYCHOLOGY

Andreas Sommer is a PhD candidate in science and technology studies at University College London with a background in philosophy, psychology and medical history. This talk will identify widespread misunderstandings regarding a tacit but significant question which controversies concerning parapsychology usually boil down to: the nature of scientific evidence and practice. In reference to relevant findings from history, sociology and philosophy of science, it will be argued that fruitful communications between opponents and proponents of parapsychological research ultimately depend on an informed understanding of actual scientific practice as opposed to unhelpful popular idealisations and stereotypes of science.