Pseudo-Science

I. Content:
Pseudo-science: Phrenology, Lobotomies, Physiognomy, Barnum Effect, Psychics (William James' Experience), Placebo effect, Recovered Memory, Subliminal Messages, Daubert Hearning..

II. Prerequisites:
The students should have a firm understanding of how history can impact .

III. Instructional Objectives:
When requested, the students should be able define and discuss instances of pseudo-science as it relates to psychology. They should understand how a pseudo science comes to be, and the potential problems surrounding pseudo science.

IV. Instructional Procedures:
A. The instructor begins discussing how psychology tries to define itself as a science (as we will see with Hall). 
B. The instructor will pose the question why it might be important to do so.
C. The instructor will present the topic.
D. The instructor will distribute the assessments and display the answers.

V. Materials and Equipment:
A. Image of illusory contours
B. old account of physiognomy in court
C. Passage in Elbert Hubbard book
D. Duabert...

VI. Assessment:
Students will be given a multiple choice test to see if they understand the definitions and concepts presented in the lecture.

VII. Follow up Activities:
The students are encouraged to invent a pseudo science. They should define it and what it does. They should also discuss its potential impact on society.

VIII. Self Assessment:
xx

IX. Additional Resources:
http://www.psychology.org/links/Resources/Pseudoscience/
How to sell a pseudo science: http://www.positiveatheism.org/writ/pratkanis.htm
Pseudoscience topics from A to Z
http://www.ship.edu/%7Ecgboeree/phrenology.html