Bay Area Skeptics Information Sheet - 1987 01

Magazine Overview

Title: BASIS
Issue: Vol. 6, No. 1
Date: January 1987
Publisher: Bay Area Skeptics (BAS)
Editor: Kent Harker

This issue of "BASIS," the newsletter of the Bay Area Skeptics, is primarily focused on promoting skeptical inquiry and challenging paranormal claims through scientific investigation. It features a significant challenge to psychics, discussions on pseudoscientific topics like the "Mars Effect" and high-dose Vitamin C, and reflections on the nature of skepticism itself.

A Challenge to Psychics

The lead article, "A CHALLENGE TO ALL PSYCHICS IN THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA," outlines the Bay Area Skeptics' commitment to testing paranormal claims. They issue a direct challenge to any psychic or psychic researcher in the Bay Area to demonstrate any psychic power under "properly controlled scientific test conditions." The group offers a monetary reward of $11,000.00 for such a demonstration, and notes that they will promptly report individuals whose powers seem worthy of testing to James "The Amazing" Randi, who has offered a similar $10,000.00 reward for decades. The conditions for any test would be agreed upon in advance by all parties. The article emphasizes the potential recognition and benefit to science and humanity if such powers could be scientifically validated, noting the high prevalence of alleged psychics and belief in psychic powers in the Bay Area.

Detailed instructions are provided for those interested in accepting the challenge, requiring a precise statement of the claim, specifics of the proposed scientific test, methods, statistical requirements, and agreement that all proceedings are on record and that failure to agree on test specifications does not constitute grounds for damages. Claims must be clear, understandable, specific, scientific, testable, and significantly accurate.

Events and Discussions

Mars Effect Problem: 15 Years of Controversy

This section announces a talk by BAS Board Member Lawrence Jerome on January 27, 1987, addressing the "Mars Effect." Jerome intends to explain why he believes M. Gauquelin's statistical evidence for planetary influence on successful careers is merely a statistical effect with no basis in reality. A computer-simulation program will be available to help attendees mentally correlate planetary motion with Earth's movements.

C-FOR-ALL: The Vitamin C Debate

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to a debate about Vitamin C, specifically the claims made by advocates of mega-dosages. Frank Levy, a disciple of the Linus Pauling institute, presented arguments for Vitamin C's effectiveness against a wide range of ailments, including colds, flu, pneumonia, cancers, and heart attack. He highlighted that humans cannot produce their own Vitamin C, unlike most other species. Levy's presentation was contrasted with the views of Dr. Wallace Sampson, MD, a Stanford U. oncologist and BAS advisor, who has studied the Vitamin C controversy for 15 years. Dr. Sampson argued that while a small amount of Vitamin C is necessary to prevent scurvy, the human body is not biochemically equipped to utilize mega-doses for metabolic processes beyond its vitamin function, leading to excretion. He countered that comparisons with species that produce large amounts of Vitamin C are invalid because those species can metabolize it for cellular energy. Sampson concluded that a normally healthy person can meet nutritional requirements with a well-balanced diet, suggesting that the claims for mega-dose Vitamin C are not supported by replicable, carefully conducted studies and rely heavily on anecdotal evidence.

Editorial and Organizational Notes

From The Chair

Robert Sheaffer's "From The Chair" column offers holiday wishes and discusses the Bay Area Skeptics' upcoming annual year-end review of "psychic predictions" to be released to the media. He reflects on the impact of the organization's efforts in generating news coverage and highlights that 1986 was another "bad year for the psychics." Sheaffer also apologizes for delays in the newsletter's production, explaining that the previous editors, Ray Spangenberg and Diane Moser, have stepped down, and the new editor, Kent Harker, has taken on both editing and treasurer roles. He expresses gratitude for the volunteer efforts that keep BAS running, noting that subscription revenues barely cover printing and mailing costs. Sheaffer emphasizes that BAS is in good shape compared to many other local and national skeptics' groups, which are also volunteer-driven and face significant struggles.

Sister Organizations and News Items

The newsletter includes brief updates from other skeptical organizations. The South Shore Skeptic in Cleveland, OH, hopes to be listed on the Cleveland Free-Net, a computer bulletin board. The Western New York Skeptics held their first public meeting featuring James Randi speaking on "faith healing." They also investigated Reverend Willard Fuller, who claims to perform "psychic dentistry," but witnessed no miracles during a "healing session."

What is a Skeptic?

This section explores the public perception of skepticism, often associated with cynicism and bigotry. It argues that skepticism is a form of open-mindedness, as a skeptic is not committed to any viewpoint until evidence is presented and is willing to discard beliefs if they are proven wrong. The piece contrasts this with a commitment to absolutes, which can hinder further inquiry. It suggests that while humans may desire certainty, knowledge is inherently tenuous, and skeptics are comfortable with this uncertainty.

On The Ramparts

This column invites readers to submit comments on newspaper articles related to skeptical inquiry. It also encourages submissions of articles for publication in BASIS, with a reminder that submissions become the property of BAS and are not returned. Examples of articles discussed include one on "Healing Thru Visualization" from the "S.F. CHRONICLE" and a report on "Map Dowsers" from "The Union Democrat."

Treasurer Speaks

The treasurer's note thanks subscribers for their financial support, highlighting that donations are crucial for covering printing costs and keeping the organization afloat.

Editor's Corner

The "Editor's Corner" features a critique of a glib entrepreneur promoting a vitamin supplement. The editor recounts being presented with a video featuring an M.D. and claims of "miracle" results, but notes that specific evidence for the product's efficacy was lacking, relying instead on anecdotal testimonials and the salesperson's assertions. The piece criticizes the societal reliance on "magical thinking" and the appeal of "miracle" or "secret" products over established health practices like balanced regimens, exercise, and rest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "BASIS" strongly advocates for scientific rigor and evidence-based reasoning. The central theme is the challenge to paranormal claims, emphasizing the need for controlled testing and skepticism towards unsubstantiated assertions. The newsletter promotes critical thinking regarding health claims, particularly concerning the popular trend of mega-dose Vitamin C, and debunks pseudoscientific concepts like the "Mars Effect." The publication also champions the role of skeptical organizations in promoting rational inquiry and combating misinformation, highlighting the dedication of volunteers in this effort. The overall editorial stance is one of promoting critical evaluation of extraordinary claims and fostering a scientifically informed public discourse.

This document presents selected articles from the January 1987 issue of "BASIS", the monthly publication of the Bay Area Skeptics. The issue is dated January 1987 and is published by the Bay Area Skeptics, based in San Francisco, USA. The primary language of the publication is English.

Personal Reflection on 'Quick Fixes' and Laetrile

The author begins with a personal reflection, acknowledging the powerful allure of 'quick fixes.' The author shares a personal experience from twelve years prior when diagnosed with fully metastatic cancer. Faced with the prospect of radical, disfiguring surgery, the author considered laetrile, an alternative treatment. Ultimately, the author opted for surgery, which was successful, though this success did not receive widespread recognition as an 'anecdotal cure by laetrile.'

The Promise of the Miraculous

The text identifies a commonality in 'secret' or 'miraculous' offerings: the promise of instant results. This includes promises of instant wealth, health, joy, and happiness. The author contrasts this with the reality that true fulfillment requires discipline, courage, and effort, suggesting that people often prefer the idea of receiving desired outcomes easily, perhaps through a product or a simple solution ('in a box, book, or a capsule').

Editorial Stance and Disclaimer

A disclaimer is included, stating that opinions expressed in "BASIS" are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of BAS (Bay Area Skeptics), its board, or its advisors. This indicates a commitment to presenting diverse viewpoints within a skeptical framework.

How to Obtain "BASIS"

Information is provided on how interested readers can obtain a free sample copy of "BASIS". This can be done by sending a name and address to BAY AREA SKEPTICS, 4030 Moraga, San Francisco, CA 94122-3928. Alternatively, readers can leave a message on "The Skeptic's Board" BBS at 415-648-8944 or contact the 415-LA-TRUTH voice hotline.

Copyright and Reprint Information

The content is copyrighted (C) 1987 by the BAY AREA SKEPTICS. Reprints are permitted provided they credit "BASIS, newsletter of the Bay Area Skeptics, 4030 Moraga, San Francisco, CA 94122-3928."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this excerpt revolve around skepticism towards unproven claims, particularly in health and wellness, and the psychological appeal of 'miraculous' or 'quick fix' solutions. The editorial stance, as indicated by the publisher and the content, is to critically examine such claims and promote a more evidence-based and realistic approach to life's challenges, emphasizing personal responsibility and effort over facile promises.