SPAEF Charter Whereas, It has long been recognized that fact can be a confusing entrant into discussions of religion or other deeply held beliefs; and

Whereas, The accumulation, verification, and peer review of scientific evidence can be time consuming, fraught with the risk of being uncovered as fraudulently collected; and

Whereas, Opinions are often formed prior to testing hypotheses, thus rendering the accumulation of scientific evidence a superflous step; we hereby agree:

1. That provided one or two high profile examples of a behavior, state of matter, etc can be described, that behavior or state of matter is deemed to exist and be representative of the broad population.

2. Using descriptive statistical terms is an annoying feature of scientific culture that has no appropriate place in unscholarly discourse.

3. Examples involving rich people, famous people, or events that featured prominently on the evening news are more representative than examples involving Aunt Gertrude.

4. First hand knowledge is recommended but not required. Occassionally a friend will have another friend who saw something that more than adequately proves the point. Actually speaking with the eyewitness is optional.

5. Making generalizations about race, gender, creed and religion are acceptable so long as you start the phrase with, "I'm not a chauvenist, but..." or its equivalent. This is equivalent to wearing a bigotry safety vest.

6. Following any of all of these rules qualifies you to be a contributing editor to grocery store checkout line tabloids.  ¶ 8:01 AM