James Randi Educational Foundation

File:James Randi on JREF Gerbic prize 2017.webm James Randi Educational Foundation (JREF) is a non-profit organization founded in 1996 by magician and skeptic James Randi. The foundation is dedicated to promoting critical thinking and providing the public with the tools to evaluate claims of paranormal, pseudoscience, and fraud. The JREF is known for its annual event, The Amazing Meeting (TAM), and for its one-million-dollar challenge to anyone who can demonstrate a supernatural ability under scientific testing conditions.

History

The James Randi Educational Foundation was established with the goal of educating the public and the media on the dangers of accepting unproven claims, and to support research into paranormal claims in controlled scientific experimental conditions. Over the years, it has become a leading voice in the skeptic community, advocating for evidence-based science and critical thinking.

The One Million Dollar Paranormal Challenge

One of the most publicized aspects of the JREF's activities was the One Million Dollar Paranormal Challenge, which offered a prize of one million dollars to anyone who could demonstrate a supernatural or paranormal ability under agreed-upon scientific testing criteria. The challenge ran from its inception in 1996 until 2015, when it was officially terminated due to no successful claimants.

The Amazing Meeting (TAM)

The Amazing Meeting (TAM) was an annual conference that focused on science, skepticism, and critical thinking. The event featured a variety of speakers, workshops, and panels that addressed topics related to skepticism, including alternative medicine, psychic phenomena, and science education. TAM was celebrated for its inclusive atmosphere and for bringing together like-minded individuals from various backgrounds to discuss and promote skepticism and critical thinking.

Educational Outreach

The JREF has been involved in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting critical thinking among students and the general public. This includes providing resources for educators, engaging in public speaking events, and producing written and multimedia content that debunks pseudoscientific claims and encourages a skeptical approach to questionable claims.

Legacy

Although James Randi passed away in 2020, his legacy lives on through the work of the JREF. The foundation continues to be an influential force in the skeptic community, promoting the importance of skepticism and critical thinking in evaluating the myriad of claims presented in the media and on the internet.

See Also

• Skepticism
• Critical thinking
• Pseudoscience
• Paranormal