Science and Religion: Pseudo-Sciences and Alter-Sciences

This lecture delves into the realm of pseudo-sciences, para-sciences, and alter-sciences, exploring their distinctions from true science. It discusses the historical context, the blurred lines between belief and conviction, and the ongoing struggle for recognition between orthodox and heterodox knowledge. The lecture also examines the impact of cognitive marketing strategies, the challenges of separating pseudo-sciences from real science, and the rise of alter-sciences. Through various examples like geocentrism and flat Earth theories, it highlights the dangers of distorting scientific results to fit personal beliefs. The lecture concludes by emphasizing the importance of critical thinking in evaluating such phenomena.