Exploring sex science and pseudo-science (with Mary Roach)

1. Embrace Nuance in Understanding

When exploring any topic, recognize that depth of knowledge reveals complexity, nuance, and numerous unknowns. Avoid making sweeping statements and acknowledge exceptions, as true understanding requires appreciating intricate details.

2. Question Intuitive Knowledge

Do not automatically accept information as true just because it aligns with your existing beliefs or “feels right.” Actively question intuitive knowledge and seek external verification to avoid biases.

3. Verify Primary Sources

Avoid relying on secondary sources like other books, as they may not be fact-checked and can perpetuate misinformation. Always strive to trace information back to primary sources to ensure accuracy.

4. Recognize Citation Slippage

Be aware that information can morph and become inaccurate through repeated citation without verification of original sources. Actively trace claims back to their origin to prevent the spread of misinformation.

5. Distrust Simplistic Solutions

Be wary of individuals who propose overly simplistic solutions to complex problems, as this often indicates a lack of deep understanding. Complex issues rarely have “just” one easy fix.

6. Inform Policy with Expert Teams

For effective governance, leaders should prioritize surrounding themselves with and being informed by diverse teams of experts who understand the complexities of various issues. This ensures policy decisions are well-grounded and nuanced.

7. Practice Adversarial Collaborations

Actively seek out and engage in “adversarial collaborations” where individuals with opposing viewpoints work together to find common ground or jointly investigate a topic. This approach can lead to more robust solutions and mutual understanding.

8. Utilize Skilled Conflict Moderators

When attempting to resolve conflicts between groups with differing opinions, ensure a skilled moderator is present to facilitate effective communication and listening. A professional in human-human conflict management can guide productive dialogue.

9. Promote Coexistence Through Dialogue

To resolve human-wildlife or human-human conflicts, bring together diverse stakeholders from opposing sides for facilitated discussions. This direct dialogue, guided by trained moderators, can foster understanding and lead to mutually beneficial policies.

10. Build Trust Through Shared Experience

To bridge divides, encourage shared experiences and interactions among people with differing views, allowing them to see each other as individuals rather than just opposing viewpoints. This can foster personal connection and reduce animosity.

11. Travel to Broaden Worldview

Engage in international travel and spend time with people from diverse backgrounds who may look, dress, or think differently than you. This helps reveal the common core of humanity and build understanding beyond isolated social circles.

12. Connect Beyond Political Differences

When engaging with individuals holding opposing political views, first connect on non-political topics to establish a human connection. This helps to see them as a person rather than just a platform or an opinion.

13. Prioritize Suffering in Moral Status

When considering the moral status of a creature, focus on its capacity to suffer rather than its ability to reason. This perspective suggests that the experience of pain is a key factor in moral consideration.

14. Reconsider “Pest” Labeling

Be mindful of using the term “pest” for animals, as it can desensitize people to their welfare and lead to less humane treatment. Reflect on the ethical implications of how we deal with animals, regardless of their size or perceived cuteness.

15. Challenge Animal Welfare Double Standards

Recognize and challenge the double standards in animal welfare, where larger, cuter animals receive more concern than smaller, less appealing ones. Advocate for humane treatment protocols for all animals, including those in our homes and yards.

16. Value Animal Preferences and Suffering

When interacting with animals, consider that their preferences and capacity for suffering might be as significant as human preferences in certain contexts. Avoid automatically prioritizing human desires over animal well-being, especially when suffering is involved.

17. Scientifically Test Paranormal Claims

Apply rigorous scientific methods to investigate paranormal or spiritual claims, rather than dismissing them outright. Science should be capable of determining the reality or falsity of such phenomena if testable claims are made.

18. Demand Testable Protocols

When evaluating extraordinary claims, insist on concrete, falsifiable predictions and a clear experimental protocol before testing. This prevents vague claims from being untestable and ensures a fair scientific assessment.

19. Guard Against Self-Delusion

Recognize the potential for self-delusion, especially when individuals strongly believe in their own extraordinary abilities despite repeated failures in controlled tests. Maintain a critical perspective even when personal conviction is high.

20. Prioritize Evidence Over Mockery

When encountering beliefs that seem “silly,” resist the temptation to mock them and instead focus on evaluating the actual evidence. A scientific approach requires starting from what the evidence says, not from assumptions or derision.

21. Choose Topics for Engaging Narrative

When selecting a topic, consider what scenes, settings, and narratives will bring the material to life for the audience, focusing on where you can go, who you can see, and what interesting situations might arise. This approach helps ensure the subject matter lends itself to an engaging and surprising read.

22. Immerse Yourself in Research

To create a vivid and engaging narrative, consider immersing yourself directly in the subject matter, even participating in experiments or experiences. This “gonzo journalism” approach can lead to unique and memorable scenes for your audience.