Paul Kurtz

In the following viewpoint, Paul Kurtz maintains that reports about so-called paranormal events are best approached with an attitude of skeptical inquiry. Fantastic claims about the existence of psychic powers, faith healing, UFOs, and other unusual phenomena have thus far not been verified by solid scientific evidence, he points out. Those who believe in the paranormal tend to rely on anecdotes and testimony—which are unreliable—or may be influenced by fantasy and wishful thinking. In contrast, the skeptic recognizes that there is generally a natural explanation for anomalous events. Kurtz is a former philosophy professor and founder of the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. Why did Kurtz establish the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal...