Alien vs Archaeologist: What is pseudoscience? | Talk (at SED)

Join PhD student Jack Rogers to discover where the line between science and speculation is drawn - and when a theory stops being scientific.

Did aliens build the pyramids? Did a great Atlantean Empire once rule the world?

In this presentation, we explore the distinctions between science and pseudoscience, highlighting why critical thinking and academic methods matter. We’ll look at how academics evaluate evidence, and why scientific explanations tend to hold greater credibility than alternative narratives.

Join Archaeology PhD student Jack Rogers as he examines the world of pseudoarchaeology and conspiracy theories - their claims, their influence, and their impact on how we understand archaeological materials. Jack will unpack what draws people to these ideas and contrast them with mainstream archaeological explanations.

While many conspiracies offer dramatic and entertaining stories, this talk will show that archaeology itself can be every bit as captivating!

Talk Time: 11:00

Run Time: 45 minutes

Suitability: All ages

PLEASE NOTE:

• a few additional tickets for the talk will be available on the day at the entrance of the room in Building 58, on a first-come-first-served basis;
• in case the tickets for this talk and other timed activities are sold out, please note that there are 150 activities to enjoy during the day!

Accessibility: For more information, visit our dedicated Accessibility page.

PLEASE NOTE: This ticket just gives you access to the talk. If you haven't already done so, you will need to book a FREE general admission ticket for Science and Engineering Day to complete your registration to the festival, by filling the form HERE.

This event is taking place as part of Science and Engineering Day, the fun-filled family-friendly flagship event of Southampton Science and Engineering Festival (SOTSEF).

Please contact the event organiser at festival@soton.ac.uk if you have any questions regarding the event you are booking.

Visit the Science and Engineering Day's official website at www.sotsef.co.uk/SED to find out the full festival programme and plan your attendance.

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