54 pages • 1 hour read
Carl SaganThe Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1996A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Published in 1995, Carl Sagan’s The Demon-Haunted World explores scientific skepticism and critical thinking, arguing that these are essential for individuals and society amid the prevalence of pseudoscience. He debunks various pseudoscientific claims, such as UFOs and alien abductions, by applying the scientific method and presents a "Baloney Detection Kit" to help discern valid information, advocating for widespread scientific literacy and critical thinking as protections against misinformation. The book discusses sensitive topics such as childhood sexual assault and its misinterpretation in the context of pseudoscience claims.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Carl Sagan’s The Demon-Haunted World is praised for its compelling advocacy of scientific skepticism and the importance of critical thinking. Many commend its accessibility and engaging prose. Criticisms include occasional repetition and perceived condescension towards non-scientific perspectives. Despite this, it remains a highly regarded work for promoting reason and science.
Who Should Read The Demon-Haunted World?
A reader who appreciates critical thinking, science advocacy, and inquiry would enjoy The Demon-Haunted World by Carl Sagan. Comparable to readers of Richard Dawkins's The God Delusion and Neil deGrasse Tyson's Astrophysics for People in a Hurry, this audience values rationality and scientific literacy in combating misinformation.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Science / Nature
Education
Religion / Spirituality
Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies
Values/Ideas: Trust & Doubt
Values/Ideas: Science & Technology
Psychology
Philosophy