Who is your favourite paranormal sceptic?

Question

Who is your favourite sceptic and why? Could it be the escapologist Harry Houdini? The critical thinker James Randi? Or maybe someone of the scientific persuasion such as the indominable Carl Sagan or the quick witted Richard Dawkins? Support your sceptical icon. I'll leave this question to the vote so thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Skepticism has a long history. See the link. If I had to pick a person, it would be David Hume (1711-1776).



@ Daniel: Skepticism is a METHOD of thinking. Not a position. There is no rule that says you must be a scientist or have any sort of higher education. Right now you are showing a skeptical attitude about Randi.



Belief is natural and necessary in childhood. Skepticism must be taught and learned. A desire to know rather than believe.



“A wise man proportions his belief to the evidence.”

― David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding

Answer 2

Someone who's a REAL skeptic. Randi's not a true skeptic in my point of view. He doesn't have any scientific degree. He's just a magician. A true skeptic is someone who will do things scientifically and be willing to accept it if it goes with science. Not dismiss it and go with a theory you created to ignore it :)

I'm a believer, but SKEPTICS are often interesting as well!

Answer 3

I like Joe Nickell because of his straight forward hands on approach. He'll take claims and actually investigate them on site.

My favorite though was the late Martin Gardner. You can see why, by reading the interview below.