Why People Believe Weird Things

Ever wonder why people believe in UFO abductions, mind-reading, reincarnation, urban legends, not to mention "scientific creationism" and the pernicious myth that the Holocaust never happened?

Michael Shermer, science historian and bestselling author, is a genuine ghost-buster, a relentless crusader against superstition and pseudoscience. In this round the table discussion on critical thinking, we will explore and discuss the reasons why people find otherworldly phenomena, conspiracy theories, and cults so appealing.

How to apply
Only students from RUG and Hanze can apply to take part in this masterclass.
You can apply by sending an email to studium@rug.nl  before March 5, with your name, nationality and study. A maximum of 40 students can attend this discussion. Attendance will be on first come, first served basis by email applications. The first 40 students will receive a confirmation email and a reading list, furthermore they will be asked to send 1 or 2 questions before March 8. This round the table discussion is not part of a curriculum and students will not receive ECTS for participating.

This round the table discussion is organized by Studium Generale and is only open for students from the University of Groningen and Hanze University. Michael Shermer will give a public lecture for Studium Generale on Tuesday March 10, at 8 p.m. in the Academy Building of the University of Groningen. More information