The Problem with the #CharlieCharlieChallenge

Earlier this week, a really dumb idea became ridiculously popular.

Here’s how the “Charlie Charlie Challenge” works: You get some paper and make a grid with the words “Yes” and “No.” You put pencils on the axes, one atop of another, so they balance. Then you ask Charlie — a supposed Mexican demon with a very not-Mexican name — any question you want.

If the top pencil moves, it means Charlie is answering your question…

We know how this works.

When you’re really close to the paper, the slightest mo...