By DEFAITHED
Added: Sun, 16 May 2010 10:14:36 UTC

Hi all. I recently heard mention of a maxim related to skeptical / critical thinking; I'm trying to identify its name and what exactly it says. 

The gist, if I heard correctly, is something to the effect of "Before delving into the hows and whys of some claimed phenomenon, confirm that the phenomenon actually exists". Such as: Before offering convoluted explanations for a paranormal sighting, first confirm that the alleged sighting actually took place. Before trying to debunk legends surrounding some mysterious ancient artifact, first confirm that the alleged artifact exists. And so on.

Does this ring a bell with anyone?

(And: I hope this is an appropriate place to be asking; my apologies if not.)

TAGGED: CRITICAL THINKING, IRRATIONALITY