But there is only one surefire method of proper pattern recognition, and that is science. Michael Shermer methodpatternproper Change image and share on social
Tenure in any department is serious business, because it means, essentially, employment for life. Michael Shermer businessdepartmentemployment Change image and share on social
But because we live in an age of science, we have a preoccupation with corroborating our myths. Michael Shermer agecorroboratelive Change image and share on social
I say you don't need religion, or political ideology, to understand human nature. Science reveals that human nature is greedy and selfish, altruistic and helpful. Michael Shermer altruisticgreedyhelpful Change image and share on social
Providentially, learned habits can be unlearned, especially in the context of moral groups. Michael Shermer contextgrouphabit Change image and share on social
When religious believers invoke miracles and acts of creation ex nihilo, that is the end of the search for them, whereas for scientists, the identification of such mysteries is only the beginning. Science picks up where theology leaves off. Michael Shermer actbeginbeliever share on social
Mammals are sentient beings that want to live and are afraid to die. Evolution vouchsafed us all with an instinct to survive, reproduce and flourish. Michael Shermer afraidbeingdie Change image and share on social
Scientists are skeptics. It's unfortunate that the word 'skeptic' has taken on other connotations in the culture involving nihilism and cynicism. Really, in its pure and original meaning, it's just thoughtful inquiry. Michael Shermer connotationculturecynicism share on social
Skepticism is not a position that you stake out ahead of time and stick to no matter what. Michael Shermer aheadmatterposition Change image and share on social
Dualists hold that body and soul are separate entities and that the soul will continue beyond the existence of the physical body. Michael Shermer bodycontinuedualist Change image and share on social
