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Critical Science

Critical Science

Written by: Lyle Burgoon
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About this listen

 Critical Science is focused on a few things I (Dr. Lyle Burgoon) love -- critical thinking (which I don't do enough of at home, ask my family), science, and applied ethics. And ya know what -- even scientists, who are supposed to be trained to be critical thinkers, often mess it up (I'm certainly not perfect). In each episode I try to combine these two passions of mine. Sometimes, we'll explore a topic in the news in a slightly more critical way. Other times we might explore how a lack of critical thought has led to some minor, and sometimes major, problems. But ultimately, I want us to explore critical thinking more deeply. How do we do this critical thinking thing, anyway? What do we need to watch out for? And how does critical thinking align with the scientific method as it's actually practiced by real scientists? And we'll tackle tough subjects like applied ethics challenges and scientific integrity questions. My hope is that through this journey we'll learn and grow into better critical thinkers -- together.

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Lyle Burgoon Biological Sciences Hygiene & Healthy Living Philosophy Physical Illness & Disease Science Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Thanks for Listening!

    Thanks for Listening!
    Jun 4 2024

    This is the last episode of Critical Science.


    It's not goodbye. It's more like, "until we meet again."


    Thank you for listening! Thank you for watching! It's been a lot of fun. I learned a lot, and I hope you have, too. I also hope you had some fun along the way. This actually ran a LOT longer than I ever expected.


    I appreciate everyone's support!


    I fully anticipate creating a new podcast series at some point. I've got some ideas, some things are more concrete than others.


    Be excellent to each other, and I'll see you all again real soon.

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    7 mins
  • So-Called Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Aren't Giving Children Metabolic Syndrome

    So-Called Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Aren't Giving Children Metabolic Syndrome
    May 29 2024

    Summary


    In this episode, Dr. Lyle Burgoon discusses a study published in JAMA Network Open that claims a link between prenatal exposure to certain chemicals and metabolic syndrome risk in children. He analyzes the study using the seven tips he discussed in a previous episode and highlights several flaws and limitations in the study design. Dr. Burgoon emphasizes the importance of being skeptical and checking biases when evaluating scientific studies. He criticizes the media, particularly CNN, for sensationalizing and misrepresenting the study's findings, causing unnecessary fear and confusion among the public.


    Takeaways


    Be skeptical and evaluate scientific studies based on their scientific merits, regardless of who funded them.

    Consider the study design and sample size when assessing the reliability and generalizability of the findings.

    Recognize the limitations and uncertainties in observational studies and the inability to establish causation.

    Check biases and avoid confirmation bias when interpreting scientific studies.

    Be critical of media reporting on scientific studies and consider waiting for scientific consensus before drawing conclusions.


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    27 mins
  • 7 Tips for Assessing Science

    7 Tips for Assessing Science
    May 21 2024

    I get asked now and then if I have tips to help people spot poorly done science, bad science, or what I prefer to call pseudoscience.


    Here are 7 tips!


    If you want to see the infographic, visit our Critical Science website (https://critscipod.com/episode-25-7-tips-for-assessing-science/).

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    24 mins
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