This is a blog showcasing the writing of myself – Fred Lunjevich, Auckland, New Zealand. You will find an array of stories and pieces in this blog – from agricultural writings as a NZ Rural Press reporter, through to Ice Hockey and Science.
I am a skeptic… that is, I require evidence before proportioning belief to any claim. I don’t care what that claim is – magic water (homeopathy), chiropractic, God, chi, a curved universe, the big bang etc… Skepticism is a process not a conclusion. Below is a quote that encapsulates what skepticism is all about:
“A skeptic is one who prefers beliefs and conclusions that are reliable and valid to ones that are comforting or convenient, and therefore rigorously and openly applies the methods of science and reason to all empirical claims, especially their own. A skeptic provisionally proportions acceptance of any claim to valid logic and a fair and thorough assessment of available evidence, and studies the pitfalls of human reason and the mechanisms of deception so as to avoid being deceived by others or themselves. Skepticism values method over any particular conclusion.”
– Dr. Steven Novella, The New England Skeptic Society and The Skeptics Guide to the Universe podcast.
I decided to run with the name “View From Reality” because the real world as revealed through science is truly astonishing. Despite this, many people would rather we ignore or deny reality in order to inflate their own ideas and beliefs.
Skepticism is a necessary component of determining reality and is central to the methods of science. Some ideas are wrong and some are true. This startlingly simple concept is one that seems elude even otherwise intelligent people.
I aim to promote clear thinking and an honest assessment of the evidence with topical issues in society, whether that be religion, fringe science, hokey marketing or just plain stupidity.
Fresh Views From Reality 