Includes bibliographical references (pages 433-447) and index.
Contents:
Science and the paranormal -- The believing brain -- Area 51: what is really going on in there? -- The Roswell incident: what really happened? -- Close encounters of the second kind: physical evidence of alien contact -- Close encounters of the third kind: direct encounters with aliens -- Close encounters of the fourth kind: alien abduction -- The mythos of ancient aliens -- Praying to aliens -- Ancient myths and modern media -- Cloud's illusions -- Are they out there? -- Why do people believe in UFOs and aliens? -- The verdict.
Summary:
The authors employ the ground rules of science and the standards of scientific evidence to examine paranormal phenomena such as UFOs, aliens, crop circles, and the alignment of the pyramids. A wide range of topics is discussed, including the reliability of eyewitness testimony, psychological research into why people want to believe in aliens and UFOs, and the role conspiratorial thinking plays in UFO culture. Prothero and Callahan also share their personal experiences of Area 51, Roswell, and other legendary sites.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.