I.Q. -- Interesting Quote

Groups such as the Center for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal, the Skeptics Society and the National Council Against Health Fraud argue that alternative medicine has no more credibility than astrology, alien abductions or psychic hotlines.

On the other side are advocates, some researchers and many patients, who say that ancient healing systems have evolved gentle, effective methods overlooked by scientific medicine.

"'The stance that there's nothing to alternative therapies and the position that it's just quackery is itself not a scientific position,' said John Astin, a Stanford University health psychologist. "The scientific position is to stay open-minded and examine whether the therapies are safe and potentially useful strategies.'"

Monmaney T, Roan S. Hope or Hype? Los Angeles Times, August 30, 1998.