"I was dismayed by the rising tide of belief in the paranormal and lack of adequate scientific examination of these claims... Books such as ... the 'Chariots of the Gods ... 'Worlds in Collision'... 'The Bermuda Triangle' were widely popular... I was distressed that my students confused astrology with astronomy...without the benefit of scientific critique. Most of my scientific colleagues were equally perplexed by what was happening,..." Paul Kurtz, founderCommittee for Skeptical Inquiry.
This great video has the objective of promoting civility in how skeptics communicate with those having differing opinions. However it does at the same time provide insight into skepticism. Dr. Plait's talk is intertaining and worth listening to the whole thing. For more details follow this Link to Discover Magazine