Skeptical Inquirer

Skeptical Inquirer is the official journal of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry. Six times per year Skeptical Inquirer publishes critical scientific evaluations of all manner of controversial and extraordinary claims, including but not limited to paranormal and fringe-science matters, and informed discussion of all relevant issues. In addition to news, articles, book reviews, and investigations on a wide variety of topics, Skeptical Inquirer has a stellar stable of regular columnists including Joe Nickell (“Investigative Files”), Massimo Polidoro (“Notes on a Strange World”), Massimo Pigluicci (“Thinking About Science”), Robert Sheaffer (“Psychic Vibrations”), and SI managing editor Benjamin Radford's reader-driven (“The Skeptical Inquiree”). Yale University neurologist Steven Novella, M.D., founder of the New England Skeptical Society and executive editor of the Science-Based Medicine blog, contributes a new "The Science of Medicine" column, and contributing editor Kenneth W. Krause adds a regular science column, "ScienceWatch."

‘Pop’ Culture: Patent Medicines Become Soda Drinks

by Joe Nickell

Volume 35.1, January/February 2011

Investigative Files

Mineral water, including naturally carbonated water, has long been promoted as a curative for various ailments.

The Aura: A Brief Review

by Bridgette M. Perez

Volume 35.1, January/February 2011

Column

Empirical studies show no evidence for the existence of an aura around humans that supposedly only psychics can see. Why, then, does belief in auras persist?

Magnetic Healing: An Old Scam That Never Dies

by Steven Novella

Volume 35.1, January/February 2011

Column

The notion that magnets can be used for healing has existed since humans discovered them.

The Right Stuff

by Steven Doloff

Volume 35.1, January/February 2011

Column

Will America's (Foolish) Optimism Stare Down the Recession?

Defending Isagenix: A Case Study in Flawed Thinking

by Harriet Hall

Volume 35.1, January/February 2011

Column

Do those who comment on blogs even read the articles they are responding to? Here is a case study in emotional thinking, ad hominem arguments, logical...