Author Archives: M. Özgür Nevres

I am a software developer, a former road racing cyclist, and a science enthusiast. Also an animal lover! You can check out my social media profiles by clicking on their icons.

The Skeptic’s Guide: How to Identify Fake Science News [10 detailed tips]

In the age of information, the proliferation of fake science news has become an alarming issue. The lines between fact-based, peer-reviewed scientific discoveries and sensational, pseudoscientific claims are increasingly blurred. For the unwary, these faux narratives can lead to dangerous misinformation that undermines critical thinking and scientific integrity. While the internet has democratized access to …

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10 Ways to Spot a Conspiracy Theory [With Examples]

Conspiracy theories have been a pervasive part of public discourse, increasingly so in the age of the internet. While they often masquerade as critical thinking or alternative viewpoints, conspiracy theories can be dangerous, fostering mistrust, division, and in extreme cases, inspiring real-world violence. Thus, it’s vital to develop the tools to distinguish between legitimate concerns …

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Occam’s Razor explained: When you hear hoofbeats think horses, not zebras

Occam’s razor, a foundational principle in philosophy and science, postulates that when presented with multiple explanations for a phenomenon, the simplest one – requiring the fewest assumptions – is often the most likely to be correct. Named after the 14th-century Franciscan friar, William of Ockham, this heuristic tool champions simplicity and clarity over complexity. At …

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Hitchens’s Razor: what can be asserted without evidence can also be dismissed without evidence

In our daily discourse, it’s common to encounter bold claims made without a shred of evidence. These baseless assertions, while occasionally persuasive, rest on shaky ground. Hitchens’s Razor, a clear and concise principle, provides a response to such proclamations: “What can be asserted without evidence can also be dismissed without evidence.” This adage serves as …

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Sagan Standard: Extraordinary Claims Require Extraordinary Evidence

Carl Sagan once said, “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence”, which is now known as the “Sagan Standard”. This means that if someone says something really surprising or unusual, they should have strong proof to back it up. It’s like telling a big story-you need to show it’s true. This idea is important today because there’s …

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The Optimal Order for Reading Asimov’s Foundation Series [A Comprehensive Guide]

Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series stands as a monumental achievement in science fiction, weaving a tapestry of narratives that span millennia and explore the rise and fall of civilizations. For newcomers to this intricate universe, however, the path to immersion might appear daunting. With prequels, sequels, and the original trilogy penned over decades, determining an optimal …

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Leslie Lamport: The Man Who Revolutionized Computer Science With Math

Leslie Lamport’s journey as a computer scientist, driven by his background in mathematics, has significantly influenced modern computer science. Lamport’s philosophical approach toward algorithms and the foundational role of mathematics in programming is instrumental in understanding the relationship between programming and coding. From his reflections on distributed systems to his interactions with industry, we delve …

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What was Isaac Asimov like in person?

Isaac Asimov, renowned as one of the most brilliant minds in science fiction, was not only an extraordinary writer but also an exemplary human being. His ability to weave complex scientific principles into fascinating narratives won him accolades worldwide and positioned him as a literary giant. For many, including myself, Asimov is a favorite, and …

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