Transparency and detail are everything in science.

Science has authority not because of white coats or titles, but because of precision and transparency: you explain your theory, set out your evidence, and reference the studies that support your case.

I'd like to submit to Bad Science my teacher who gave us a handout which says that 'Water is best absorbed by the body when provided in frequent small amounts.' What I want to know is this. If I drink too much in one go, will it leak out off my arsehole instead? Thank you. Anton.

And if, by the end [of this book], you reckon you might still disagree with me, then I offer you this: you'll still be wrong, but you'll be wrong with a lot more panache and flair than you could possibly manage right now.

I think you'll find it's a bit more complicated than that.

I agree, the world would be a better place if doctors were less enthusiastic about adopting very new drugs.

You are a placebo responder. Your body plays tricks on your mind. You cannot be trusted.