Considering Cryptids with Sharon Hill

This week, writer, researcher, and "strange claims adjustor" Sharon A. Hill joins AP for a wide-ranging discussion about those curious specimens called cryptids- what they are, how we define them, and how stories about them define us. Sharon approaches cryptozoology from an academic perspective, and is at once skeptical and simultaneously sympathetic to reported zoological anomalies. The interview begins with a bit about her background, what draws her to the study of highly strange claims, and the various approaches she has taken toward such subjects in over two decades of writing about them. In particular, the role of science is discussed as it pertains to investigation, and the distinction is made between scientific inquiry and what Hill calls "scientifical" methods. This leads to a broader discussion of skepticism, and the pitfalls of disbelief.From there they get into a wild sampling of cryptozoological oddities and narratives, from the changing definition of the term "cryptid" itself to festivals based on the mystery creatures and more. They talk about concerning trends of associating the creatures with tragic events as well as exploitation of cultural legends as well, and if that's not enough also discuss recent revelations about the Patterson Gimlin Film and what it says about the state of Bigfootery in our current cultural landscape.Be sure to check out Sharon's prolific body of writing here: https://sharonahill.com/