Finding the occasional straw of truth awash in a great ocean of confusion and bamboozle requires intelligence, vigilance, dedication, and courage. But if we don't practice these tough habits of thought, we cannot hope to solve the truly serious problems that face us --- and we risk becoming a nation of suckers, up for grabs by the next charlatan who comes along.
- Carl Sagan
Quote Source: The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark
Carl Sagan has a good point here. We must practice these skills or habits as he calls them or otherwise be led like sheep to the slaughter.