James E. Alcock, PhD, is professor of psychology at York University in Toronto and the author of many books, book chapters, and articles on social psychology and the psychology of belief, most recently An Introduction to Social Psychology (with Stan Sadava). He is also a registered clinical psychologist who works in private practice. He is on the executive council of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry and on the editorial board of Skeptical Inquirer. His previous work includes a special research project on parapsychology for the National Academy of Sciences.
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Reviews
"Whatever you believe you know about belief, you will find surprises in this comprehensive volume. James Alcock deftly dissects the human heart of folly: why so many cling to beliefs that are foolish, self-destructive, and wrong, believing them to be wise, self-protective, and right.” —Carol Tavris, PhD, coauthor (with Elliot Aronson) of Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me)
“Alcock has written a book that comprehensively considers the concept of belief from all angles, writing in a clear and accessible style throughout. With its emphasis upon the need for critical thinking in evaluating claims, the publication of this book could not be more timely in our so-called ‘post-truth era.” —Professor Christopher C French, head of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit, Goldsmiths, University of London
“Beliefs, sometimes true but often mistaken, have been a motivation for refusing medical treatment, for terrorism, for murder, and even for suicide. How do people rationalize these horrors? In his new engaging book, esteemed psychologist James Alcock helps us understand.” —Elizabeth F. Loftus, PhD, Distinguished Professor, University of California, Irvine and author of Eyewitness Testimony
“Alcock has written a book that comprehensively considers the concept of belief from all angles, writing in a clear and accessible style throughout. With its emphasis upon the need for critical thinking in evaluating claims, the publication of this book could not be more timely in our so-called ‘post-truth era.” —Professor Christopher C French, head of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit, Goldsmiths, University of London
“Beliefs, sometimes true but often mistaken, have been a motivation for refusing medical treatment, for terrorism, for murder, and even for suicide. How do people rationalize these horrors? In his new engaging book, esteemed psychologist James Alcock helps us understand.” —Elizabeth F. Loftus, PhD, Distinguished Professor, University of California, Irvine and author of Eyewitness Testimony