Based on the Robert Todd Carroll book of the same name, The Skeptic's Dictionary contains more than 400 essays that define their chosen subjects while exploring their creation, advocates and any rigorously conducted scientific research that might support or undermine the theories in question. The topics under this particular skeptical umbrella range from 9/11 conspiracy speculations and acupuncture to Zermatism and zombies. Readers will find controversy aplenty, even just within the site's index, which lists many widely accepted alternative medicine practices and at least one policing tool (lie-detector technology), side by side with Bridey Murphy, ear candling and the Piltdown hoax.

Modern consumers are treated every day to a barrage of information, all of it supposedly true and much of it backed up by vague references to experts and studies. Within this environment, sites like The Skeptic's Dictionary can function as a much-needed reality check. A quick browse through this page may well challenge more than one of a reader's deeply held beliefs. The articles are thorough and fair, however, and offer links to research that enable visitors to surf on, gather more information and ultimately make up their own minds.