Deceived Wisdom : Why What You Thought Was Right is Wrong

A skeptic's guide to debunking popular science myths and much 'received wisdom' that is just plain wrong

Did your mother remind you to take off your coat when inside or you won't 'feel the benefit' when you leave? Have you ever been informed that what you need to cool down is a nice cup of tea? And are you bored of being told that you have to let that red wine breathe first to improve its taste? If so then 'Deceived Wisdom' is the book for you. Organised into easy-to-read standalone sections, it looks at the facts we all think we know and examines why we don't know them at all. David Bradley's clear and witty writing examines the science behind the statements to reveal the truth behind many popular myths. Entries include: - Why urinating on a jellyfish sting does not help (in fact it can make things worse and is at best rather embarrassing for the stingee) - Why recycling aluminium cans is not a waste of time - Why drinking diet cola will not make you blind - Why cats are not smarter than dogs - Why the 10,000 hour practice rule is not what it seems - Why your mobile phone won't give you cancer