One of the other instructors in the Physical Sciences department pointed out two particular classes offered through the "Community Education" department at our community college. The courses are:

STONES & CRYSTALS: Introduction to Stone and Crystal Energy

What stones and crystals do I use? Where do I find them? When and how do I use them? How do I care for them? If you collect stones and crystals, you can bring them to class and I can answer whatever questions you might have. The class is based on the study and results of the uses of stone and crystal energy in your everyday life. And promises to be fun, interactive and knowledgeable. Notebook and pen required.

This course is taught by a woman who owns a rock and mineral store. Ahem.

ASTROLOGY: Self-Discovery through Astrology

Have you wanted to gain insight into yourself and your personality through the stars? If you have, then this is a great course for you. Designed for novice and intermediate “star-gazers,” you will learn about your purpose and personality through a birth chart and learn its meaning. **Required Materials: Interpretation Tool Kit, available from instructor first night of class for $30.

Hmm...pretty good money that the instructor is making off of each student. The instructor has a Ph.D., in communications. Wonder if she minored in psychology?

Before my time at our college, the Physical Sciences department had to fight to keep an astrology course from being taught in our building. These courses are listed under "Health and Wellness" and "Personal Interest", respectively. We're thinking of asking for a separate "Pseudoscience" heading for the Community Education department to use.

But it's really astronomy that's the pseudoscience. Did you know that? Apparently that is the opinion of one of the English instructors. One of our chemistry students told his English instructor that he wanted to do a paper on astronomy. His English instructor said no, because astronomy is a pseudoscience. Smart young student that he is, he immediately jumped in to say that he did not mean astrology. However, his instructor was actually aware that she was talking about astronomy. You know, the physical exploration of the universe? The study I've pursued in earnest for the past 14 years of my life? His English instructor responded that astronomers cannot GO to any of the objects they study, so all of astronomy is rampant speculation with no rigor and no testing.

Sigh.

Bet she's taking the astrology course.

Discuss Pseudoscience