Consider this argument: “The human mind is composed of individual neurons, and individual neurons follow deterministic physical laws. Therefore, human consciousness must be entirely deterministic with no free will.” Which fallacy does this most clearly commit?

A theory claims that all living things contain an invisible “life force” that leaves the body at death. Scientists point out that this theory cannot be tested because the life force supposedly cannot be detected by any instruments. According to the chapter’s criteria, what makes this theory unscientific?

A poll asks 1,500 randomly selected Americans whether they believe in UFOs, with a margin of error of ±3%. Results show 48% believe in UFOs. Which conclusion is most appropriate?

A researcher publishes a study claiming that people can sense when someone is staring at them from behind. Several other researchers try to replicate the experiment but get results no better than chance. According to the chapter, why is replication important in science?

What best describes the microscopes we use in the laboratory of BSC1010C?

A student writes: “I believe climate change is happening. Scientists have been warning us about it for years. My professor says it’s real. Also, the weather has been really weird lately, and polar bears are dying.” What is the most accurate assessment of this passage?

Project Alpha involved two young magicians who convinced researchers at a university laboratory that they had genuine psychic powers. The researchers tested them for three years before the magicians revealed the deception. Analyze what this case reveals about why scientists need to guard against deception in parapsychology research, and explain what precautions could have prevented the researchers from being fooled.

A researcher claims to have discovered a new form of energy that can heal diseases. When scientists ask to examine the energy-detection equipment, the researcher refuses, saying that skeptical observation interferes with the energy and prevents it from working. According to the chapter’s discussion of scientific standards, what problem does this claim have?

An object displaces 1.1L of water.  The mass of the object is 298g.  Will the object float?

Bogan’s Universal indicator will turn _____________________ in color when the solution is acidic.