Despite the fact that these programs are making every effort to not present a "balanced view" of the topics they cover, they still incite a "thirst" for the topic. In fact, by producing such "wonder" regarding phenomena that is explainable via the scientific method and a skeptical approach, these programs are actually motivating readers to perform their own research and studies on these topics. Such research could certainly inspire students to pursue various aspects of science related to those depicted on television that captivate their imagination the most, and allow for them to enter that field as a result. The disclaimer even adds to this sort of result. By readily acknowledging to viewers that there are alternate opinions and considerations related to a specific subject, the disclaimers for these pseudoscience programs are actually encouraging viewers to perform their own research -- the most prudent of which inevitably involves the scientific method.
In this respect, it appears that Sagan has widely missed the overarching point and value of television in general, let alone that related to science. Television is so powerful as a medium becomes it offers a virtually unparalleled degree of exposure, perhaps only rivaled by the internet. In that sense it matters very little whether or not the science on it is real or fabricated. It purpose in exposing viewers to a subject, which makes them aware of it and allows them to pursue their own research, is still achieved. And television is not the only such medium that has this effect on science and other topics. Movies, Wikipedia, certain other web sites and books all serve as the basis as a starting point for true research which the most sapient of people will follow up with their own research -- inevitably leading the best of these to actual science and its methodology.
In light of this fact, television programs can be excused for some of their lapses in actual science. Star Trek, for instance,...
He is both likeable and credible in his delivery. His topic is one that arouses anger in many, because their faith does not allow them to see his truth. Is it only Sagan's truth? This analysis illustrates that through clear presentation, concise case building, appeal to emotion on a familiar level, and common values, that the truth belongs to everyone. He does not profess to have all the answers.
Demon Haunted Did you ever watch people as they are checking out at the grocery store and push their cart by the gossip rags that declare, "Man with Six Heads Found in Utah," or "Aliens Revisit Woman for Tenth Year in a Row"? Even if not buying the paper, the shopper often either picks it up and reads some of the stories or steals a look when it appears that no
Ethics of Human Cloning Genetic engineering and cloning have played important roles in agriculture for many generations. Bananas and seedless grapes, for example, are, quite literally, living genetic clones (Krock, 2001). Prior to the last decade of the 20th Century, human cloning was purely a subject of science fiction, but by the dawn of the 21st Century, researchers had already cloned several mammals successfully. In 1978, medical science had progressed to the
This monument is intended to commemorate the brilliance and courage and integrity of Giordano Bruno. It consists of a life-size bronze figure tied to a vertical wooden stake behind him. His face is angry but focused as though he is staring into the eyes of those who murdered him for being right. Bronze flames surround him and reach almost up to his neck. At his feet is a flat stone
Conclusion In principle, it would be entirely possible to replace religious-inspired morality with logically derived concepts of morality in human life. Generally little else would be required besides suspending religious teachings and substituting the rules of organized religion with very basic ideas such as "do no harm." In that regard, the commandment "do unto others" is a perfectly useful and easily understandable ethical principle that could be taught with much better
descendents of Adam and Eve, but it's more difficult for people who demand logic. Ever thought how, when and why did the universe evolve? Why were the apes and monkeys created with striking resemblance to humans? What's the reason that you were created? Ever thought what actually a 'thought' is -- a materialistic existence, or a physiochemical phenomenon? Ever thought how did your intelligence evolve? Ever tried making silly
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