Arizona Skeptic - Vol 4 No 1 - 1990

Magazine Overview

Title: The Arizona Skeptic
Issue Date: July 1990
Publisher: The Phoenix Skeptics
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of The Arizona Skeptic, a journal promoting critical thinking, features several articles by Michael A. Stackpole, alongside reviews and meeting announcements.

Self-Deception and the Paranormal by Michael A. Stackpole

Stackpole begins by recounting his personal experience with a biorythm program downloaded from the GEnie computer network. He found the program's compatibility ratings intriguing, especially when applied to friends. This led him to reflect on his earlier skepticism towards biorythms in the late 1970s, recalling a Reader's Digest article that prompted him to create charts for a semester. He humorously recounts a hockey game where he performed exceptionally well, initially attributing it to biorythms, but later dismissing the concept as nonsense.

He then explores the tendency for people to interpret vague statements, like those found in biorythms or horoscopes, in ways that confirm their hopes and fears. Stackpole questions the meaningfulness of compatibility percentages, such as being 92.3% physically compatible with someone, and probes the lack of scientific verification for such claims. He argues that while curiosity about paranormal phenomena is acceptable, accepting them as true without evidence is problematic. He suggests that a gentle approach of asking people about their beliefs, rather than condemning them, is more effective in encouraging critical thinking.

The Curious Case of the Cross of Chaos by Michael A. Stackpole

Stackpole investigates the symbol known as the 'Cross of Confusion' or 'Cross of Chaos.' He notes its appearance in occult symbol guides and its definition as an ancient Roman symbol questioning Christianity's validity. However, he identifies flaws in this interpretation. Firstly, he points out that early Christians did not use the cross as a symbol due to its association with criminal execution, preferring the fish symbol. Secondly, he notes that the question mark symbol, which forms part of the 'Cross of Chaos,' did not appear until the 8th century, predating its supposed Roman origin. Stackpole suggests that the symbol's meaning may have been derived through reverse engineering, similar to how the peace symbol or the Seal of the United States have been reinterpreted by some.

But Is It Science? edited by Michael Ruse (Reviewed by Jim Lippard)

This section reviews a book edited by philosopher of science Michael Ruse, which collects essays examining the creationism versus evolution controversy from a philosophical standpoint. The book is divided into four parts: the historical background of creationism, the state of evolution in the 1980s, arguments presented by creationists, and the philosophical question of demarcation between science and non-science. The review highlights contributions from prominent figures like Stephen Jay Gould, Richard Dawkins, and Duane Gish. It also discusses the debate over defining scientific criteria and the arguments presented in the Arkansas creationism case.

July Meeting by Ron Harvey

This brief report covers the July meeting of the Phoenix Skeptics, where James McGaha spoke on 'Astronomy: A Skeptic's Tool.' McGaha discussed using astronomy as an accessible entry point to introduce scientific thinking and critical analysis, suggesting that a focus on debunking might be less effective than fostering genuine curiosity and understanding.

Editorial Prattie

The editorial addresses the low re-enlistment rate of members and the need for dues to support the newsletter's publication. It warns that members who do not pay dues will be removed from the mailing list. The editor also appeals for articles for the journal, specifying a desired length of 1,000–2,000 words.

The Return of Scapegoats by Michael A. Stackpole

Stackpole discusses the resurgence of scapegoating in contemporary society, moving beyond its traditional role of expiating guilt to becoming a means of financial gain. He cites the lawsuit filed by the parents of James Vance and Raymond Belknap against Judas Priest and CBS Records, alleging that subliminal messages on the album 'Stained Class' prompted the boys' suicides. Stackpole critically examines this case, pointing out the boys' history of drug abuse, parental neglect, and illegal weapon possession. He argues that blaming the band shifts responsibility away from the parents and suggests that the pursuit of financial compensation is a primary motive.

He further notes that teen male suicides are significantly more lethal than female suicides, questioning whether gender should be a factor in assigning blame. Stackpole concludes that the question of subliminals is moot, and the real issue is the parents' responsibility and the potential for such cases to encourage irresponsibility in others.

Meeting Announcement

An announcement for the August meeting is included, featuring a video presentation titled "Psychic Confession" by journalist and psychic debunker Dan Korem, focusing on research techniques for debunking New Age phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes critical thinking and skepticism towards paranormal claims and pseudoscience, including biorythms, occult symbols, and the creationism debate. The editorial stance is one of encouraging rational inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, while also advocating for a nuanced approach to engaging with those who hold different beliefs. The publication relies on member support and contributions for its continued operation.