From: lopresti@henson.cc.wwu.edu (lopresti robert)
Message-ID: <1993Jun30.160154.3671@henson.cc.wwu.edu>
Newsgroups: sci.skeptic


About ten years ago I attenede a BOuchercon (mystery writers/readers
convention) in NY. THe Saturday night entertainment and as a last
minute substitute they were able to get the Amazing Randi - far
better than the original performer was likely to be.

Randi gave a lecture on psychic fraud, Project Alpha, and other
things, all the time demonstrating unbelievable tricks. During
question time a member of the audience asked: "How do we know
that you aren't using psychic powers to do all these things?"


"Well," said Randi. "You basically have two choices. You can
believe I have the ability to violate all known laws of science, or
that I have the ability to fool you. Which is easier to believe?"

It's amazing how many people find it easier to believe the former.