Looking for some interesting reading material this weekend? I’ve grabbed some links to stories that caught my attention this week. Hope you enjoy!
Science and Skepticism
NASA has announced plans to return to Mars with a new rover in 2020!
Mapping and tech futurism – the combination I’ve been waiting for! CBC Spark devotes a show to the future of digital mapping.
Before you get started gorging on delicious holiday goodies, check out Kim Gerson’s Solstice Step Up Challenge. You pledge a certain amount of physical activity before January 1 and donate to charity at the same time. Good all around.
While you’re at Kim’s website, check out her article on engaging kids in science.
As I mentioned this week, Skepticon 5 has its videos available to view on its Youtube playlist.
Kyle Hill on the Scientific American blog has weighed in with a skeptical piece on the Proof of Heaven phenomenon: “The Death of “Near Death”: Even If Heaven Is Real, You Aren’t Seeing It”. For additional skeptical debunking of the near-death experience (NDE) phenomenon, check out Sam Harris’ takedown of Proof of Heaven along with Steven Novella’s take.
Worried about gaining weight this holiday season but not wanting to get suckered by a weight-loss plan high in claims and low in evidence? How does a skeptic lose weight? Erik J. Davis writes about “How I Lost 40 lbs Doing Everything Wrong”.
Weekend Playlist
Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major (“Emperor”), 2nd Movement – featuring Glenn Gould
Es ist ein Ros entsprungen (“Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming”) – performed by The King’s Singers
