Skeptic JREF

JREF blasts Anderson Cooper show; Skeptic voice omitted

by Sharon Hill on October 18, 2011 at 11:30 am

JREF Decries ‘Anderson’ Episode Featuring Psychic Medium John Edward

The James Randi Educational Foundation (JREF), a non-profit organization that provides the public with reliable, scientific information about paranormal claims, criticized Anderson Cooper’s new daytime talk show ‘Anderson’ for yesterday’s episode promoting self-proclaimed psychic medium John Edward.

John Edward has made his fortune by using manipulative psychological tricks and other devious methods to pretend that he can communicate with people’s deceased family members, often for huge sums of money. Yesterday’s ‘Anderson’ show promoted Mr. Edward uncritically, talking up his ‘surprisingly accurate’ readings of Anderson Cooper and his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt. Surprisingly absent were the voices of skeptics, scientists and professional magicians who have explained over and over how Mr. Edward performs his act and takes advantage of the bereaved.

Source: JREF Swift Blog

Sadly, the segment with skeptic Karen Stollznow was not included. Although other viewers claimed the overall piece was rather skeptical. You can view video of the psychic reading segments at the Anderson Cooper show website. Overall, I doubt that any minds will be changed. Those who believe Mr. Edward has “powers” will continue to believe, no matter what evidence they are given that suggests his ability is less than paranormal.

And, just for fun, here’s a story from the Daily Mail about the show.

Ms Vanderbilt, who said she is ‘somewhat psychic,’ is clearly at odds with her son’s opinions on the subject.

The sceptical show host admitted that ‘I’m still not sure I’m a believer,’ although Ms Vanderbilt has a fan in the medium.

‘I think we all have the [psychic] ability,’ Mr Edward told the intrigued mother and doubtful son.

You’ve just read a post by Sharon Hill, syndicated from the Doubtful Newsblog.