Friday, November 14, 2014

Six filters for cognitive pollution

From 6 Tests for Evaluating Conspiracy Theories from Real Clear Policy. Somewhat useful at a high level for filtering out routine cognitive pollution.

The six filters are:
Occam's Razor - Is the conspiracy theory different from the simplest explanation? If not, be skeptical of complex theories.

Falsifiability - Can the theory be falsified? If not, dismiss.

The Worst Intentions Test - Is the track record of the conspirators consistent with what is being alleged about them?

The Cui Bono Test - Does the theory actually explain benefits accruing to the purported conspirators? If the conspirators do not benefit, be skeptical.

Eternal Recurrence of the Same - Is the theory founded on unique conditions or circumstances not experienced elsewhere? If so, be skeptical.

The Impartial Spectator Test - Does the theory pass the reasonable person test? If not, be skeptical.


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