In a world where information travels more quickly than ever before, and the misinformation and disinformation machines are working relentlessly, the ability to distinguish fact from fiction is essential. Understanding science, developing critical thinking abilities, and knowing how to ask the right questions isn’t just for scientists and academics, they’re vital for all of us trying to make informed decisions and understand what’s happening in the world.
I haven’t studied science since I was 16, but I learn so much from skeptical podcasts that communicate science in an accessible and critical way. They’ve taught me to do better at questioning my assumptions, examining evidence beyond what I’m being told, and considering all sides of a thorny issue.
And skepticism is not closed minded – if anything, it’s the opposite. It means being open to changing your mind when presented with good evidence, while maintaining a healthy dose of, well, skepticism towards extraordinary claims that don’t come with compelling proof.
Podcasts, for me, are the perfect medium for this. I would be unlikely to click on an hour-long YouTube video on the topic, but having SGU or ESG playing in the background is something I thoroughly enjoy. Plus podcasts provide the space for nuanced discussions.
So if you’re looking to improve your critical thinking skills and listen to some incredibly well-informed people who can explain complex concepts in a really accessible way, you could do worse than the five podcasts below, all of which are regulars in my podcast app.
Skeptics with a K
Skeptics with a K, “the podcast for science, reason and critical thinking from the Merseyside Skeptics Society”, is arguably Britain’s answer to the SGU, and it’s an absolute joy. Regular presenters Mike Hall, Michael Marshall, and Dr Alice Howarth are funny and well informed and make me want to know more every episode.
Friendly Atheist Podcast
The Friendly Atheist podcast is hosted by Hemant Mehta and Jessica Bluemke and focuses in particular on outrageous religious stories from the news. Being US based, there is a lot of focus on poor behaviour within Christian churches, but the content is not exclusively about this. Hemant and Jessica are funny and passionate, which makes this a great listen.
The European Skeptics Podcast
The European Skeptics Podcast, or ESP, is probably my favourite from this list, though I’m really feeling the departure of co-host Anneka Harrison. However, hosts András G Pintér and Pontus Böckman offer a gorgeous, pan-European perspective on stories relating to science and religion, and I look forward to the new episode every week. In fact, I’m listening to episode 473 as I write this. One of my favourite ESP moments is always the outtakes after the end credits, so don’t fast forward!
Conspirituality
Conspirituality describes itself as “Dismantling New Age cults, wellness grifters, and conspiracy-mad yogis” and, hosted by “A journalist, a cult researcher, and a philosophical skeptic”, it does this well. Admittedly it’s sometimes a little dry when they don’t have a guest, but the information is well researched and goes deep into debunking some of the more egregious claims coming from the “wellness” industry.
Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe
Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe, or SGU, was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to and it’s been running since 2005. It describes itself as “dedicated to promoting critical thinking and science literacy” and the friendly chat and regular fun segments make it a pleasure to listen to.