Eight Preposterous Propositions: From the Genetics of Homosexuality to the Benefits of Global Warming

This is a sequel to Ehrlich's "Nine Crazy Ideas in Science", which was my pick for December, 2001. I don't think it is as good as the first one, although it does have some great strengths; his discussion of the climate change issue is about as good as any, and he also has an especially good discussion of the efficacy of placebos. The other topics not mentioned in the subtitle are: "Is Complex Life in the Universe Very Rare?", "Are People Getting Smarter or Dumber?", (paraphrasing) Intelligent Design, Health Effects of High Cholesterol, and Psychokinesis. One of the strengths of "Eight Preposterous Propositions" is that Ehrlich provides good references, so you (or your students) can follow up on the argument in more detail if you wish.