Science vs. Pseudo Science: Falsification vs. Clarification

Science requires the testing of theories through a control group and a test group. These tests are subjected to the scientific method which states that all test start with a question then proceed through the following steps: Do Background Research; Construct a Hypothesis; Test Your Hypothesis by Doing an Experiment; Analyze Your Data and Draw a Conclusion; Communicate Your Results. These steps, when conducted properly, will reveal the validity of the hypothesis that have lead to the investigation of the subject matter.

Pseudoscience makes claims that similar test were conducted using a similar scientific method. Where they depart is when these test fail to render the desired results. Among the list of Pseudosciences are: astrology, palmistry, graphology, phrenology, spiritualism, ESP, UFOs, remote viewing, therapeutic touch, homeopathic remedies, precognition, numerology, fortune telling, psychic detectives, clairvoyance, kirlian photography, and physiognomy.

Often is the case where information is collected then transmitted in such a way as to cause the reading public to believe various falsifications. Artists have been doing this ever since the ability to record visual representation. In some of our oldest depictions of kings and other royalty, we see a commissioned portrait, a panting, of a Venetian sophisticate swathed in furs and toying with a statuette of Diane of Ephesus by a table strewn with antique gems and coins. This image represents cultivated self-indulgence and great wealth. We know this work by Lorenzo Lotto was commissioned by Andre Odoni (portrayed) with the aim of displaying Odoni's self worth.

Many photographers have received similar commissions with the aim of showing their subjects in the best of poses, under the most glorious circumstances, with the softest light possible. Perusing your local magazine rack you will discover exactly this case in point. While the cover of Esquire, Vogue, or Cosmopolitan reveals truly the perfect skin tone, and most glamorous attire, the cover of Star, The National Enquirer, and other tabloids displays quite the opposite.



Robert Maplethorp became famous after a gallery installation displaying his controversial installation was shut down. However, looking at much of the portraiture he did subsequent to the aforementioned controversy we see that many famous people commissioned him to take their portrait. His images, shot against a black backdrop, reveal smooth skin, glamorous poses and exceptional print quality. Each image highlights something of the character as portrayed through the gaze of Mapplethorpe's trained eye.
  
Science and Pseudoscience both attempt to communicate information to the society as a whole. While science has gained credibility for being absolute truth, who is to say that Pseudoscience has no place among our realities. Mass-media aims at garnering our attention, consider the levels of falsification at hand with any given image and set upon yourself the goal of discovering the context of each image; seeking greater clarification.