Dr. Stephen Hupp on Scientific Skepticism, Misinformation, and CSICon’s Role in Defending Evidence-Based Thinking

Stephen Hupp, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, professor at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and Executive Director of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry. He also serves as editor of Skeptical Inquirer, a leading publication promoting science and reason. Hupp’s work focuses on evidence-based psychological treatments, critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscience. Through research, writing, and public engagement, he advances scientific literacy and advocates for rigorous standards in mental health practice and public discourse.

Scott Douglas Jacobsen interviews Hupp on scientific skepticism’s role in countering misinformation. Hupp emphasizes evidence-based thinking, digital information literacy, and the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry's mission. He highlights CSICon’s community-building function and keynote speakers, including Bill Nye, Mary Roach, and Richard Wiseman, reinforcing skepticism’s societal importance today.

Scott Douglas Jacobsen: What is the relevance of secular humanism and scientific skepticism in an era of rising, proud ignorance?

Dr. Stephen Hupp: We are exposed to a tremendous amount of information every day, constantly through our phones. Some of it is true, some of it is false, and some falls into a gray area. We need tools to determine what is accurate and what is misinformation. That is the main goal of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry, part of the Center for Inquiry: to help people adopt an evidence-based worldview and make science-based decisions. Stephen Hupp is the Executive Director of CSI, editor of Skeptical Inquirer, and a psychology professor at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Jacobsen: What is the importance of conferences where people exchange ideas, strategies, and updates in skepticism?

Hupp: Barry Karr, the previous executive director, was known for strengthening the skeptical community by bringing people together. I succeeded him in that role in 2025. Conferences such as CSICon give people committed to science and science communication a place to learn from one another, challenge ideas, and improve their ability to defend science.

Jacobsen: Are the keynote speakers confirmed?

Hupp: Yes. The conference is marking the fiftieth anniversary of the modern skeptical movement and of CSI’s institutional origins in CSICOP, founded in 1976. Bill Nye is scheduled for a fireside chat with me on Saturday night. Mary Roach is also on the program. Her session is “Mary Roach in Conversation with Richard Wiseman.” Her featured book is Replaceable You: Adventures in Human Anatomy, which explores both scientific advances and ill-advised missteps in the replacement of body parts for medical reasons.

Jacobsen: What are some highlights from Richard Wiseman’s recent career?

Hupp: Yes, he has been active for a long time. I first came to know Richard Wiseman through his book Quirkology and his related YouTube work. More recently, he published a book titled Moonshot. The premise is that what once seemed impossible—such as landing on the moon—became possible through scientific progress and collective effort. The book makes the case for attempting ambitious goals, and I found it very inspiring.

Jacobsen: It is a separate matter—if something violates the laws of nature, then it is impossible. However, if it is a logistical hurdle we have not yet solved, then it is worth attempting.

Hupp: I also add that, in addition to interviewing Mary Roach, Richard Wiseman will give his own talk on Saturday morning about how the world has benefited from skepticism. It will be one of several presentations highlighting the importance of a strong skeptical community.

Jacobsen: Thank you very much for the opportunity and your time, Stephen.