What is The Skeptic's Dictionary?
The Skeptic's Dictionary is a collection of cross-referenced skeptical essays by Robert Todd Carroll, published on his website skepdic.com and in a printed book. The website, launched in 1994, serves as a comprehensive guide to skeptical information on pseudoscientific, paranormal, and occult topics.
History and Development
The Skeptic's Dictionary was first launched on the web in 1994, with a modest number of entries. Over the years, the website has grown to include over 700 entries, as of January 2011. The book version, published in 2003, contains nearly 400 entries, with a comprehensive bibliography that includes some seven hundred references for more detailed information.
Purpose and Scope
According to the back cover of the book, the online version receives approximately 500,000 hits per month. The Skeptic's Dictionary is intended to be a small counterbalance to the voluminous occult and paranormal literature; it does not aim to present a balanced view of occult subjects.
Content and Structure
The Skeptic's Dictionary is organized in a cross-referenced format, allowing readers to easily navigate and explore related topics. The entries are written in a clear and concise manner, making the information accessible to a wide range of readers. The bibliography provides a wealth of additional resources for those interested in delving deeper into specific topics.
Significance and Impact
The Skeptic's Dictionary has become a valuable resource for those seeking skeptical perspectives on pseudoscientific and paranormal claims. The website and book have been widely cited and referenced in academic and popular literature, and have been praised for their clarity and thoroughness. The Skeptic's Dictionary has also been recognized as a valuable tool for critical thinking and skepticism, helping readers to distinguish between evidence-based information and unsubstantiated claims.
FAQ
What is the primary purpose of The Skeptic's Dictionary? The Skeptic's Dictionary is intended to provide skeptical perspectives on pseudoscientific and paranormal claims, aiming to counterbalance the voluminous occult and paranormal literature.
How many entries does The Skeptic's Dictionary contain? As of January 2011, the website contains over 700 entries, while the book version includes nearly 400 entries.
Is The Skeptic's Dictionary a balanced resource? According to the book's foreword, The Skeptic's Dictionary is not intended to present a balanced view of occult subjects, but rather to provide skeptical perspectives on pseudoscientific and paranormal claims.
How many hits does the online version receive per month? The online version of The Skeptic's Dictionary receives approximately 500,000 hits per month, according to the book's back cover.
Who is the author of The Skeptic's Dictionary? The Skeptic's Dictionary was written by Robert Todd Carroll.