Why People Believe Weird Things
Why People Believe Weird Things: Pseudoscience, Superstition, and Other Confusions of Our Time is a 1997 book by science writer Michael Shermer, founder of Skeptic magazine. It examines the psychological and social factors that lead people to accept extraordinary and unfounded claims.
Key facts
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Author: Michael Shermer
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Published: 1997 (W. H. Freeman)
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Genre: Nonfiction, skepticism
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Subject: Pseudoscience, superstition, critical thinking
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ISBN: 978-0-7167-3090-3
Themes and purpose
Shermer argues that belief in weird things—alien abductions, creationism, ESP, conspiracy theories—stems not from stupidity but from normal cognitive processes gone awry. He emphasizes the role of pattern-seeking, confirmation bias, and emotional attachment to beliefs.
Structure and content
The book is divided into sections on pseudoscience (alien encounters, near-death experiences, creationism), skepticism as a method, and the moral implications of irrational belief. Shermer profiles notable skeptics and uses case studies to demonstrate how intelligent people convince themselves of falsehoods.
Reception and impact
A landmark text in the modern skeptical movement. Shermer’s accessible, non-dismissive approach to believers made the book influential among both skeptics and educators. It remains widely assigned in critical thinking courses.