1. Define the following words in the sense they were used in the text.

Gullible Ignorant Fallible

2. Explain the difference between pseudoscience and anti-science.

3. a) What is the “Baloney Detection Kit?” Why is this kit so important in today’s society?

b) List and briefly explain four of the tools from the Baloney detection kit.

4. Are scientists biased? Explain why or why not.

5. In the chapter on “Baloney Detection”, Sagan presents a number of logical fallacies or errors to watch out for when evaluating a claim to knowledge. List and briefly explain three mistakes that one could make when evaluating a claim to knowledge.

6. According to some surveys as many as 95% of Americans are scientifically illiterate (including most of our political leaders). Sagan presents many reasons for a concerted effort to effectively communicate science to every citizen. List two reasons why scientific literacy is so important in modern society.

7. What is “the path to freedom?” Explain in a historical sense and today.

8. Sagan notes “the habit of skepticism is an essential prerequisite for responsible citizenship.” Explain why this is true.

9. List and briefly explain two ways we should use the media or social media to improve science education.

10. Opponents of science think we should “subsidize not the curiosity of the nerds, but what will benefit society.”

a) Explain the meaning of “subsidize” in this context.

b) Explain the meaning of this statement.

c) How do you think public funds (tax dollars) should be used? Explain your answer.

11. According to Sagan, science education in the US is often of poor quality. List two problems with current K-12 science education in the U.S.A.

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