If science studies folklore is it folklore or science?

Question

Would these MIT experimenters say they did not conduct a science experiment?

http://people.csail.mit.edu/rahimi/helmet/

Answer 1

Folk songs are really a thing of the past.  Once popular in coffee houses (NOT Starbucks, the corporate monster who charges way too much for a cup), folk songs were sung by groups like The Kingston Trio.  That was so weird because there were actually four singers....they would rotate singers at different shows never having four appear at one time.  Scientifically, folk songs led to awful things like people taking heroin and finally Ecstasy.  The science behind that transformation is shameful.  Thanks for asking!

Answer 2

hmm...scientific folklore i would say,nah...I'm just kidding,

but  in fact,they made an experiment...,and some of this fellows used the helmet  as the protective measure of choice against invasive radio signals,and surprisingly

the statistical evidence suggests the use of helmets may in fact enhance  the  invasive abilities

Answer 3

Well I would say it would be called social science.....but these guys are just bored scientists going for a chuckle. I don't know if foil hats qualify as "folklore".

Answer 4

if it follow a scientific protocol it's science, regardless what are you studying.

That study is probably a good candidate for the next IgNobel contest ! :)

But I suppose they will have problems publishing a paper on the subject. LOL

Answer 5

I have no doubt that if the government really did want to track someone they wouldn't need to surgically install  some type of implant. But if they did I'm sure they would figure out a way to amplify the signals with equipment nearby such as a cars antenna. I have heard and or read of these being used and it really wouldn't surprise me especially on prisoners who are eventually allowed to escape such as terrorists etc.  Some so-called folklore is still within the realm of scientific plausibility no matter how much others may laugh about it. Roswell is another one of those folklore's that almost became reality for most of us. I wonder which museum we would have put that in? Is religion based on folklore or science? Is the serpent of old a reptilian or extraterrestrial? Is Remote Viewing the same as Watching as the Fallen had supposedly done?

http://www.remoteviewinghistory.com/

Answer 6

hahaha, thats a very funny experiment, thanks for showing us that one.

I guess it all depends on your approach, and how strictly you use the term science.

If you are looking for truths in folklore using the scientific method like these guys are, then yes, it is a science, no question.

If you are just using conjecture and testimonial evidence, it can be interesting, but usually would not be considered a science.

Answer 7

The folklore is the subject of the study.Sounds like a fun experiment.I guess they had some time on their hands.Kind of reminds me of "Mythbusters".I doubt you'll see a rise in foil hat wearing though.At least I hope not.