The simple answer to this question is 'Yes'. Randy Pausch knew that as a final lecture what he had to say had to be embraced by all types of learners, by the unedcuated and the educated alike; that his lecture needed to span generations, and make a personal, emotional connection with anyone who would hear it (or read it). Therefore, he used a wide variety of evidence, from personal examples to scientific evidence, and evidentiary testimonials from other people. It makes for a very compelling book.