Kendrick Frazier: A Legacy of Science Journalism and Skepticism
Kendrick Frazier has spent decades at the intersection of rigorous scientific reporting and the active debunking of pseudoscience. From his early leadership roles at major science publications to his long-term commitment to scientific skepticism, Frazier's career reflects a lifelong dedication to clarity, evidence, and the defense of the scientific method.
Early Career and Science News
Frazier's professional journey began with a significant tenure at Science News. Starting as the earth sciences editor from 1969 to 1970, he quickly ascended through the ranks, serving as managing editor during 1970–71 and as the publication's editor from 1971 to 1977. He continued to contribute his expertise as a contributing editor until 1981.
During this period, Frazier engaged in high-stakes field reporting. In December 1973, he traveled to Antarctica and the South Pole to document U.S. research into the continent's climatic and geologic history, while also examining the environmental impacts of such scientific endeavors.
The Fight Against Pseudoscience and CSICOP
In 1976, Frazier reported on the founding of the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICOP). He noted that the association of renowned author Isaac Asimov with the organization provided it with immense status and authority.
Frazier's role within the organization grew rapidly. In August 1977, he became the editor of the committee's journal, The Zetetic. Under his leadership, the publication was renamed the Skeptical Inquirer with its first 1978 issue. For forty-five years, Frazier wrote articles in every single issue and attended every national and international conference hosted by the organization.
Notable Contributions and Themes
Through his editor's columns and reports, Frazier tackled a wide array of popular science and skeptical topics, including:
- The Winter of Our Discontent: An analysis of attacks on climate science.
- The Roswell Syndrome and Pseudoskepticism: Investigations into paranormal myths.
- Why the Bem Experiments Are Not Parapsychology's Next Big Thing: A critique of parapsychological claims.
- Getting People Emotionally Invested: Exploring the psychology of belief.
His comprehensive historical account of CSICOP was later featured in The Encyclopedia of the Paranormal.
Contributions to National Research
Parallel to his work in skepticism, Frazier spent over two decades at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico. From 1983 to 2006, he served as a full-time staff member, documenting the laboratory's various research projects. For the final 11 years of his tenure, he edited the award-winning The Sandia Lab News, eventually retiring as a Principal Member of Laboratory Staff.
Defending Science in Literature
Frazier's commitment to scientific literacy is further evidenced in his book, Science Under Siege: Defending Science, Exposing Pseudoscience. The work is a collection of essays by journalists and researchers examining the nature of science and the dangers of twisting facts.
The book received high praise from leading scientific figures:
- Neil deGrasse Tyson described it as a "welcome antidote" to the science illiteracy found in American pop culture and the press.
- Steven Pinker called it an "eye-opening collection" that aids the battle against superstition and ignorance.
- Jay M. Pasachoff lauded the book for bringing logical, well-reasoned analyses to a general audience.
Key Facts
- Skeptical Inquirer: Frazier edited this journal for 45 years, having renamed it from The Zetetic in 1978.
- Science News: Served as editor from 1971 to 1977.
- Sandia National Laboratories: Worked as a staff member and editor of The Sandia Lab News from 1983 to 2006.
- CSICOP: A lifelong participant in the organization's conferences since 1977.
- Major Work: Authored Science Under Siege: Defending Science, Exposing Pseudoscience.
| Period | Organization/Publication | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1969–1977 | Science News | Editor (and previous editorial roles) |
| 1977–2022 | Skeptical Inquirer | Editor and Contributor |
| 1983–2006 | Sandia National Laboratories | Principal Member of Laboratory Staff / Editor |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Skeptical Inquirer?
The Skeptical Inquirer is a journal dedicated to examining claims of occultism and pseudoscientific theories. It was originally called The Zetetic before Kendrick Frazier renamed it in 1978.
What was Frazier's role at Sandia National Laboratories?
Frazier was a full-time staff member from 1983 to 2006, where he wrote about research projects and edited the award-winning newspaper, The Sandia Lab News.
Who praised Frazier's book Science Under Siege?
The book was praised by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, cognitive scientist Steven Pinker, and astronomer Jay M. Pasachoff.
What is CSICOP?
CSICOP stands for the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal, an organization focused on applying scientific scrutiny to paranormal claims.
Where did Frazier travel to report on geologic and climatic history?
In December 1973, Frazier traveled to Antarctica and the South Pole to report on U.S. research and its environmental impact.