As this blog evolves, I'm sure it will cover all the topics and subtopics that concern the sceptical community at large. I'll be making a list and hopefully get into the rhythm of regular postings.
I'm not sure what my "mission statement" is but it should become apparent as time goes on.
In the meantime to get the ball rolling, I'll share how I was introduced to the community.
As an amateur astronomer, I am a regular listener to the Astronomy Cast podcast hosted by Fraser Cain and Dr. Pamela Gay. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in Astronomy, beginner or expert. Each week they tackle a subject in a clear and easy to follow manner. Galaxies, Black Holes, the Moon etc. Over the last few years they've recorded over 100 weekly casts and are now producing two every week. The standard podcast and second one, answering listener questions.
Check them out in iTunes or at www.astronomycast.com
Back in the summer of 2007, Fraser and Pamela were guests on the Skeptics' Guide to the Universe podcast and mentioned the fact on their podcast.
So I listened to that episode and compared to the very education orientation of Astronomy Cast, I found it a bit frivolous and light hearted.
I didn't listen again for a while until I heard some other mentions of the Skeptics' Guide and decided to give it a try. I started listening to the latest casts and eventually, once I'd become familiar with the "Rogues" I went back and listened to every episode from the beginning. Some 100 podcasts. Now I'm hooked and wait avidly for the Saturday morning upload.
I'll leave the review of the Skeptic's Guide to another day. Suffice to say that it was my Gateway Podcast. From there I picked up Skepticality and Skeptoid and from there Science Talk, Science Weekly etc.
There's now a Skeptics' Guide 5x5 podcast also. As the main podcast is regularly over an hour long, this is a bit-size 5 minute cast covering a particular topic or news item.
One thing that becomes apparent is that there is a larger community out there and most people are not aware that others share their outlook and view of the world. The podcasts are great for opening up the avenues and recommending resources such as books and websites.
As time goes on I'll review the various podcasts, books, websites etc.
Keep reading. Keep thinking.
Zero Albedo
23 Dec 2008
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