Sagan versus the pseudosciences

Abstract: Carl Sagan, the renowned scientist/science communicator, was active in a broad effort to further the efforts of scientific discovery and understanding. He found a niche in translating complex scientific principles into easily understandable messages and imbuing all with a sense of wonder and intimacy. Central in his efforts was demonstrating the utility of the broad application of skepticism and scientific thinking. This was distilled into something he called, the “Baloney Detection Kit.” This article discusses that collection of principles and applies it to the claims of homeopathy.