The Ottawa Skeptics aim to promote the use of the scientific method, critical thinking and rational thought in our community. Ottawa Skeptics supports high standards of scientific integrity, academic freedom and the free exchange of ideas. We have one bias: Science is the best method for determining objective truth.
Please contact us if you have any questions or information about local strange occurrences or claims. We enjoy researching and answering people's questions about the paranormal, conspiracy theories, alternative medicine, and other issues that are 'on the fringe' of science.
The Ottawa Skeptics produce a weekly 45 minute podcast called The Reality Check that explores skepticism, scientific controversies and curiosities.
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We also hold regular events; if you live in the Ottawa region and would like to join us, please feel free to come along; upcoming meetings are announced on facebook and meetup.com.  Even if you don't live in Ottawa, you're more than welcome to register and participate in our forums.
Darren looks into the sticky issue of science paper retractions. Adam exposes the true nature behind the expiry and "best before" dates you see on food packaging. Elan dips into the myths and facts behind your car's oil changes.Â
Adam examines the bold claims of the movie and music industry regarding online piracy. Elan debunks the outrageous claim that Pepsi uses human fetuses to add flavouring. Darren figures out WTF a blue moon actually means.
Darren talks about a recent news story about a genius 4 year old, what does her IQ actually mean? Jon examines the truth and fiction surrounding truth serum, can it actually get people to spill the truth? Adam runs a game of science fact or science fiction about the origins of "420".
Adam goes into the history and absurdity of HIV Denial, the belief that HIV does not cause AIDS. Elan looks into the story of the Jewish exodus from Egypt, did it happen? Could it have happened? Darren goes over a few common Titanic myths in remembrance of the sinking of the ship 100 years ago this past week.
Darren explains the controversy surroundingTuring Test, a supposed way to determine if computers have reached "human level" intelligence. Elan brings to light a heavily debated topic from computer science, does "P = NP"? Adam looks into the plausibility of the 1999 movie "Double Jeopardy".
