Michael Shermer

Activist, Athlete, Educator/Teacher, Scientist, Writer/Editor

Dr. Michael Shermer is the Founding Publisher of Skeptic magazine and editor of Skeptic.com, a monthly columnist for Scientific American, and an Adjunct Professor at Claremont Graduate University and at Chapman University Dr. Shermer is the author of several science books, including The Believing Brain, which was on the New York Times bestseller list for four weeks. His previous books include The Mind of the Market, on evolutionary economics, Why Darwin Matters: Evolution and the Case Against Intelligent Design, and The Science of Good and Evil and Why People Believe Weird Things. Dr. Shermer received his B.A. in psychology from Pepperdine University, M.A. in experimental psychology from California State University, Fullerton, and his Ph.D. in the history of science from Claremont Graduate University (1991). Since his creation of Skeptic magazine he has appeared on such shows as The Colbert Report, 20/20, Dateline, Charlie Rose, and Larry King Live (but, proudly, never Jerry Springer!). Dr. Shermer was the co-host and co-producer of the 13-hour Family Channel television series, Exploring the Unknown.

Science, books, knowledge, learning, making the world a better place for more people in more places more of the time. Oh, and cycling...I'm passionate about riding my bike!

Skepticism 101: Teaching people how to think like a scientist and a skeptic.

evolution and intelligent design, science and religion, science

I've been to conferences all over the world, with amazing people in remarkable places on important topics, but I've never had an experience like TED. Everything that happens at TED leaves a lasting impression. The year I spoke in 2006 I was dumb struck by the humanity and thoughtfulness of Rick Warren, by the wit and humor of Julia Sweeney, by the insights of Helen Fisher, and especially by the surprising humor of Al Gore (who knew?) who was practically doing stand up on stage! The second year I spoke, at the 2009 TED, I got to meet Bill Gates and Temple Grandin, two quirky geniuses who have changed the world for the better. I will be attending TED 2013 and am looking forward to learning new ideas to change the world.

Sports science, cycling, and the application of behavioral game theory to explaining why athletes dope, parallels between sports and society (rules and regulations for fair play for everyone).