International Skeptics Day

International Skeptics Day is a floating holiday that occurs every Friday the 13th The date was chosen because the day is associated with skepticism and superstition This is a day to be skeptical, superstitious and doubt things A skeptic is one who doubts everything or questions what many believe to be factual or true, such as scientific, religious or philosophical knowledge Instead of accepting something at face value, skeptics look for more evidence and consistency in logic The word “skepticism” comes from the Greek word “skeptomai”, which means “to think or reflect” Skepticism is a method of inquiry, not a set of conclusions, beliefs, or faith He argues that any belief is open to future revision because it is based on what the evidence shows in a particular period of time Throughout history, skepticism has aided scientific research and the pursuit of knowledge Skeptics have helped debunk false theories and hoaxes, such as the belief that the Earth is flat There are two theories why Friday the 13th is associated with skepticism and superstition The first refers to the Last Supper, which was held on the night before the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and was attended by 13 people: Jesus and 12 of his disciples The number 13 became associated with Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus This number is considered imperfect, unlike 12, a number that also represents the number of months in a year The second theory why Friday the 13th was associated with skepticism and superstition has to do with the Knights Templar Under pressure from Pope Clement V, King Philip IV of France arrested hundreds of these Catholic crusaders on Friday, October 13, 1307 It was alleged that recruits to the order were forced to spit on the cross, deny Christ, and engage in homosexuality during initiation These allegations were unproven, but the knights were accused of moral and financial corruption, as well as of worshiping false idols, and were burned at the stake According to legend, Jacques de Molay, Grand Master of the Templars, said before being killed: “God knows who is to blame and who has sinned Soon disaster will befall those who sentenced us to death” De Molay's words were seen as a curse that continued throughout time, meaning that Friday the 13th would continue to bring bad luck Here are some ideas on how to celebrate Skeptics Day: • Be skeptical or superstitious about everything Find out if something is true for yourself, instead of following what others have said about it If someone makes a claim today, check whether it is supported by logic and evidence • Watch Mythbusters or other shows that debunk pseudoscience and myths • Check if some of the stories you were skeptical about are true by examining the evidence • Meet other skeptics or interact with them online By the way, Skeptics Day also has another fixed date - October 13