Some of the most important work in promoting science and skepticism happens at the grassroots level. There are regional skeptical organizations all over the world that serve their local communities, and we like to regularly shine the spotlight on some of them.
Skeptics in Mormonville is a brand new group for the science-minded in the state of Utah. As the cheeky name suggests, the area is well-known for its high concentration of devout Mormons. But the focus of Skeptics in Mormonville is not necessarily to only combat false claims of a religious nature. As explained to me by the group's founder, Shane Smith, Utah is home to a wide variety of pseudoscience proponents who need to be challenged.
Brian: Do you find that skeptics are hesitant to make their voices heard in your state?
Shane: Of course! At work, home, in public, if I voice my views on skepticism I am immediately met with resistance. Not just by the person who brings up the subject but by several people within earshot. I find it hard to bring up topics of skepticism unless I am prepared for a full-on debate.
Brian: What inspired you to start a group for Utah skeptics?
Shane: The very small presences of the skeptical community in Utah. There are other skeptical groups that meet for Skeptics in the Pub, however they do little to no activism. I entertained the idea of creating my own group for quite a while until one day, I just did it.
Brian: You've already started a blog and podcast. How do you plan to expand your efforts in the future?
Shane: I hope to bring media attention to the ideas of skepticism. I would also like Skeptics in Mormonville to become the "skeptical watchdog" for Utah. I hope to start efforts of reporting scams rampant in Utah to the FDA, challenging local pseudo-scientific practitioners to a scientific test of their claims, and bring attention to the benefits and efficacy of public health measures such as vaccination and water fluoridation.
Brian: Many who are anti-science believe that science lacks a sense of wonder and awe that the supernatural can provide. What do you say to them?
Shane: I am a loss of words for those people. To take a hike through the Rocky Mountains and take the time to think of the time, massive pressure, and erosion process that took effect to form that gigantic mountain range is astounding. A scientific worldview is the truest form of awe-inspiration.
Brian: Where can people in Utah learn how to join your group?
Shane: You can go to https://sites.google.com/
Brian Thompson is the Field Coordinator for the James Randi Educational Foundation.