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Critical thinking Quote by Robert Carroll

“Some scientists have actually done this and guess what? They haven’t found a significant correlation between phases of the Moon and hospital admissions in the emergency room. Nor have researchers found a significant correlation between any phase of the Moon and any of the following: the homicide…” quote by Robert Carroll
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““Some scientists have actually done this and guess what? They haven’t found a significant correlation between phases of the Moon and hospital admissions in the emergency room. Nor have researchers found a significant correlation between any phase of the Moon and any of the following: the homicide rate, traffic accidents, crisis calls to police or fire stations, domestic violence, births of babies, suicides, major disasters, casino payout rates, assassinations, kidnappings, aggression by professional hockey players, or violence in prisons. That the facts go against a common belief is not so exceptional. But that people are reluctant to accept facts presented to them indicates just how unnatural critical thinking is.””

Robert Carroll

About This Quote

Source Article: Skeptical Inquirer, 2012

The quote debunks the myth that lunar phases affect many human and societal events, showing data shows no significant correlation.

In simple terms: Moon phases don’t influence most events.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions with evidence.

Themes

critical thinking myth busting science statistics

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

explanatory informative

When to use this quote

  • emergency medicine
  • law enforcement
  • public policy
  • media reporting

Key Concepts

correlation confirmation bias skepticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we accept myths?
  • How can we promote critical thinking?
A Different Perspective

People often cling to beliefs despite contrary evidence.

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