When we began this course, we explored the crucial importance in today’s information-rich society of being able to critically evaluate claims to knowledge. This exercise provides you an opportunity to apply the critical thinking skills you’ve learned about throughout this semester to evaluate a new product called the “Mind Verge” system that ’employs a breakthrough technology that grants unrestricted access to your unlimited potential”. You’ll find details of this product at: http://wvvw.mindverge.com. Explore this website, the product, and the claims made. In a 2-3 page paper in APA style, and respond to the following: Critically evaluate this product by applying the principles of scientific thinking. What principles would you use to evaluate these claims, and how would you apply them to the information you find about the -Mind Verge” system? Identify the specific claims that are made on the website for this product and the questions you would want to ask to further evaluate these claims.
Throughout the semester, we’ve also pointed out the difference between scientific and pseudoscientific claims and discussed some specific “warning signs” that characterize pseudoscience. Apply your knowledge of these warning signs to this website by locating examples in the information provided. Would you conclude that the claims made for this product are scientific or pseudoscientific?
In our discussion of persuasion techniques, we identified some tactics that are used to market pseudoscientific products. Which pseudoscientific tactics can you identify here? Please give examples.
