A surprising experience about the illusions that surround us - Truth or Lie? The Exhibition

MONTREAL, Oct. 10, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Starting October 11, the Montréal Science Centre is inviting all sceptics to its latest production: Truth or Lie? The Exhibition. This participatory experience casts a critical eye on the illusions that can dupe us, the misinformation that we sometimes swallow, and an apparent reality that is not always what it seems.

There are plenty of examples: a super-powerful energy drink, a rock with healing powers, a mind-blowing magic trick, unidentified flying objects (UFOs) or communication with the spirit world, to name a few. They seem to be genuine, but are you really sure? There are lots of hoaxes out there. Could there be some trick involved? Could that be possible? Does it really work that way? Discover how critical thinking and science can help unmask the misinformation and many illusions that surrounds us.

Truth or Lie? The Exhibition uses a simple approach: fool the visitors and then reveal the manipulation, the trick or the con — in short, help them sort out what's true and what isn't, through a series of surprises that will trip up even the sharpest minds.

Truth or Lie? The Exhibition comprises more than forty entertaining, interactive activities that raise plenty of questions. The activities are divided into three distinct zones:

Zone 1: Reality or Illusion?

• A series of optical illusions that test the limits of perception.
• Magic acts, or rather magic tricks ... because there is always a trick involved!
• Fake or genuine? Can you spot the real Barbie doll, Nike shoe, bank note or identity card?
• "Walk on the ceiling" in a topsy-turvy setting.

Zone 2: Science or Pseudoscience?

• Interested in levitation? Become a yogi for a day.
• Predict your friend's future. It's easy with the right tools.
• Everyone has a lucky number, but does it really work?
• Is winning the lottery simply a matter of luck?

Zone 3: Information or Manipulation?

• The manipulation of information, conspiracy theories, ulterior motives. So many ways to be fooled!
• Create your own sensational news item or use scientific jargon to invent a new product with remarkable properties.
• Speaking of misinformation, have you ever played broken telephone?

Truth or Lie? The Exhibition is also a highly participatory experience where visitors actually contribute to the content of the exhibition by telling unusual stories or creating hoaxes with CryptoZoo, an online game related to the exhibition. Sceptics will be able to test their critical thinking and use science and the exhibition tools to sort out true from false and obtain a clearer picture of the information.

Truth or Lie? The Exhibition
At the Montréal Science Centre from October 11, 2013
For additional information, visit www.montrealsciencecentre.com

About the Montréal Science Centre

With more than 700,000 visitors annually, the Montréal Science Centre is a complex dedicated to science and technology. It features an interactive approach that is accessible to all and showcases local innovation and know-how. The Montréal Science Centre is owned and operated by Canada Lands Company, a self-financing Crown corporation that optimizes the financial and community value obtained from former government properties.

The Montréal Science Centre wishes to thank its presenting partners, TELUS and Hydro-Québec.

SOURCE Montreal Science Centre