Bay Area Skeptics Information Sheet - 1989 01

Magazine Overview

Title: BASIS
Issue: Vol. 8, No. 1
Date: January 1989
Publisher: Bay Area Skeptics
Editor: Kent Harker

This issue of "BASIS," the newsletter of the Bay Area Skeptics, delves into several topics related to pseudoscience and skepticism, featuring an investigative report on remote viewing experiments at SRI, a critical analysis of acupuncture, and findings from a CSICOP delegation to China.

I Can See Clearly Now by Don Henvick

Don Henvick, described as a "resident psychic mole," recounts his experience attending a remote viewing experiment screening at SRI. He notes that SRI, previously involved with Uri Geller, Targ, and Puthoff in the 1970s, has continued its parapsychology research, now focusing on "psychoenergetics." Edwin May, a representative from SRI, described the program, which has reportedly conducted three thousand trials with a ten percent success rate, claiming that previous shortcomings in testing procedures have been overcome and results are now scored objectively.

Henvick describes the experimental procedure, which involved participants attempting to "remote view" a scene from a video montage. He notes that the targets were complex, often consisting of multiple images within a thirty-second clip, such as a montage related to "Project Ultra" and Allied code-breaking efforts in WWII, which included images of the words "Project Ultra," a Nazi, a code machine, women working at an early computer, and the wreckage of Coventry Cathedral. He expresses surprise at the complexity of the targets and the subjective nature of scoring.

He participated in four tests, attempting to draw or write impressions. His own responses were varied, with some loosely correlating to the targets, such as describing the "War Games" movie scene as "massive, imposing" and "looking from above." However, he notes that after the experiments, SRI was uncooperative when he inquired about the results, suggesting a lack of transparency. Henvick concludes that while the research may appear more reliable due to criticisms from figures like Ray Hyman and James Randi, the lack of published results after twelve years and three thousand trials raises questions.

SAM Invites BAS

This section reports on a joint meeting between the Bay Area Skeptics (BAS) and the Concord, California affiliate of the Society of American Magicians (SAM). Notable attendees included BAS co-founder Bob Steiner, who is also the international President of SAM, and Loyd Auerbach, a parapsychologist and President-elect of the Concord SAM affiliate. The meeting featured magicians demonstrating their skills, including card manipulation and producing objects from seemingly empty hands. Steiner and Auerbach also performed, showcasing a "warm display of mutual respect" despite their differing professional backgrounds.

Soviet Silliness

This article, referencing a report in "The New York Times" by Bill Keller, explores the prevalence of mystical beliefs and practices in the Soviet Union, contrasting it with the perception of the US as a land of faith.

It highlights Madame Dzhuna Davitashvili, a psychic healer in Moscow, who is widely accepted and was even consulted when former Soviet leader Brezhnev was ill. The article notes that unlike her American counterparts, Davitashvili has a state business license and connections with scientists and intellectuals. The piece suggests that horoscopes, psychic medicine, and mysticism pervade Soviet society, with the state's apparent blessing.

It mentions that Mikhail Gorbachev, upon becoming Soviet leader, immediately looked up his horoscope (he is a Pisces). The article also points out the irony that while Americans might laugh at Nancy Reagan for consulting an astrologer, such practices are common in Russia. Furthermore, it notes that despite the Soviet Encyclopedia listing astrology as a "false science," parapsychology is discussed in the Soviet Academy of Sciences.

Acute Puncture by Kent Harker

This article summarizes a presentation by BAS advisor Dr. Wallace Sampson, M.D., on the topic of acupuncture (AP).

Dr. Sampson states that there is a scarcity of data on AP effectiveness in refereed scientific journals. He suggests that practitioners may not be motivated to conduct rigorous testing because "AP 'works'" for recipients, and extensive research could potentially undermine their craft. The difficulty in testing is compounded by the inability to blind the therapist, although triple-blind studies are possible. Sampson found only thirty-five studies, many with protocol errors, particularly in patient selection. He emphasizes that randomization is crucial for accurate statistical analysis, which is often lacking in AP studies.

He explains that patients seeking AP are often predisposed to believe in its effects, making objective data collection challenging. Control groups are frequently sparse or non-existent, and when used, they are often disparate, making comparisons impossible. The subjectivity of pain, the primary focus of AP studies, further complicates measurement.

Dr. Sampson found that the more rigorous the controls in the studies, the less significant the results. He argues that when presented with a claim that a procedure works, the response should be, "Where are the data?"

The article traces the introduction of AP to the US around 1973, coinciding with Nixon's visit to China, citing reports of its use as anesthesia during surgery. However, Dr. Sampson points out that abdominal surgery requires heavy anesthesia, and AP's role was likely as a distraction or adjunct, with topical morphine also administered.

He discusses the legal recognition of AP, noting that while the AMA officially denounced it for lacking a scientific basis, they did not strongly oppose regulatory laws, partly due to the practice being culturally ingrained and opposing it potentially being seen as racially motivated. The AMA opted for legalization to exert control, though this might lend undue legitimacy to AP, potentially leading people to forgo primary healthcare.

Dr. Sampson explains that AP's origins lie in ancient Chinese philosophy, particularly the concept of "yin-yang" and "life force" (chi-e). He contrasts this with modern, disease-specific medicine. He suggests that before modern medicine, the "less done to a patient, the better off he was," as primitive procedures were often dangerous. AP, being benign, often received credit for spontaneous recoveries through "post hoc, ego propter hoc" reasoning.

Modern Chinese medicine, including AP, homeopathy, and chiropractic, is holistic and centered on an ethereal "energy." Unlike modern medicine, these practices are not directed at specific conditions but aim to "realign the body with the forces of nature." AP uses "meridians" arbitrarily assigned to organs, linked to emotions rather than disease, meaning needle placement is not necessarily correlated with the physical location of a problem.

Dr. Sampson contrasts this with modern medicine's focus on specific diseases and organ function. He notes that the Western adoption of AP has led to attempts to apply empirical science, causing confusion. He concludes that AP is likely here to stay, and while it may have some effect through distraction, suggestion, and placebo, its effectiveness is limited, especially for acute pain, where local anesthetics are still necessary.

CSICOP in China

This section reports on a CSICOP delegation's two-week tour of China, investigating claims of paranormal abilities among Qigong masters and psychic children.

CSICOP chairman Dr. Paul Kurtz expressed curiosity about these claims. The delegation conducted tests on alleged psychic children, including reading characters from paper placed on their ears, hands, or heads, and breaking or restoring matchsticks sealed in boxes. Under controlled conditions, no instances of children performing as alleged were observed.

In one test involving matchsticks, children were given boxes and asked to change the condition of a matchstick. After leaving the testing room and returning later, the results were inconclusive, with one child claiming destruction of the box and others showing no change. One box showed signs of tampering, and the matchstick condition was altered, which the Chinese experimenter still claimed as proof of paranormal abilities. CSICOP noted that Chinese scientists have previously found that Chinese children are prone to cheat, explaining such phenomena.

CSICOP also tested Qigong masters, a practice dating back over 2500 years involving mental concentration and breathing exercises. Some masters claim to direct "chi" energy for healing. The delegation observed a Qigong master treating a patient for a spinal tumor with rhythmic movements, but the report does not detail the outcome or further findings on Qigong masters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of claims that lack scientific evidence. The Bay Area Skeptics, through their newsletter "BASIS," consistently promote skepticism and demand empirical data to support extraordinary claims. The articles on SRI's remote viewing, acupuncture, and the CSICOP investigation into Chinese paranormal claims all highlight the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, transparency, and the potential for self-deception, fraud, or reliance on placebo effects in areas often associated with pseudoscience. The editorial stance is clearly one of advocating for evidence-based reasoning and cautioning against the uncritical acceptance of phenomena that fall outside the realm of established science. The inclusion of the "Soviet Silliness" piece also serves to highlight how even societies perceived as highly scientific can harbor widespread belief in the unproven.

Title: Bay Area Skeptic Informatoin Sheet
Issue: January, 1989
Publisher: Bay Area Skeptics
Date: 1989-01

This issue of the Bay Area Skeptics' publication, "BASIS", presents a collection of articles and reports focusing on skepticism, the investigation of paranormal claims, and the challenges posed by creationism to science education.

CSICOP Investigations in China

The issue begins with a report on experiments conducted by CSICOP researchers in China. They tested a Qigong master who claimed to direct his "chi" towards patients in separate rooms. Despite the master's assertion that his power could travel through walls, no correlation was found between his movements and those of the patients. Further tests involved a psychic sister who claimed to diagnose relatives in the United States and Canada by seeing their names. These tests also yielded negative results, with one instance of the psychic incorrectly stating a deceased relative had ailments.

Kurtz, commenting on these findings, stated that while belief in the paranormal is widespread, rigorous testing often reveals a lack of evidence. CSICOP's full report on these experiments was published in the Summer 1988 edition of "The Skeptical Inquirer".

Raining Fish and Other Phenomena

Authored by John Lattanzio, this section addresses the seemingly unbelievable stories of fish, frogs, or crabs falling from the sky. Lattanzio initially hypothesizes that such accounts might stem from distorted retellings of isolated incidents, like a few frogs falling from a tree. However, he then presents more substantial evidence.

On May 20, 1984, Ron Langton found six fish (whiting and flounder) on his roof and in his backyard in East Ham, London. Two residents of nearby Canning Town independently reported 30 to 40 fish in their gardens. The article also recounts eyewitness accounts of frogs falling from the sky, including an instance in 1844 where people collected them in hats. On June 5, 1983, Julian Gowan reported a huge spider crab falling on his Brighton home.

To explain these "remarkable showers," the article introduces TORRO (The Tornado and Storm Research Organization). TORRO suggests that whirlwinds, such as waterspouts, are the cause, as a vortex can lift objects and transport them over long distances. The typical elliptical pattern of the fallout supports this updraft hypothesis. Waterspouts were observed at sea around the time of the storm that deposited the crab in Brighton.

While TORRO's explanation addresses these phenomena, their primary research focus is on the more serious threats posed by waterspouts. The article concludes this section by emphasizing the lesson of judging claims based on evidence and avoiding premature conclusions. It also references "New Scientist" (June 2, 1988) for further information on "remarkable showers" and TORRO.

BAS in the News

This section reports on the Bay Area Skeptics' (BAS) successful efforts in media outreach. Their year-end roundup of "psychic fizzles," authored by former BAS chairman Robert Sheaffer, gained significant attention, with a clipping from the "Philadelphia Inquirer" quoting Sheaffer's article extensively. BAS notes that media contacts are increasing, providing more opportunities to present an alternative perspective to widespread misinformation. The formation of CSICOP and similar local groups has created specific centers of information, leading to media outlets seeking them out for counter-narratives.

Bennetta at Apple

William Bennetta, a BAS advisor, delivered a presentation to employees of Apple Computer and their guests in November as part of Apple's Distinguished Lecture Series. The series, organized by Joe Wujek, invites speakers on a variety of topics. Bennetta, described as an authority on the legislative and legal challenges creationists pose to science education, spoke on this sensitive subject.

Bennetta defined scientific creationism as the political arm of ultra-orthodox fundamentalist Christianity, advocating for absolute Biblical literalism. He warned that the creationist agenda is not about seeking equal time for alternative theories, but rather about fundamentally altering the entire science curriculum, including physics, chemistry, biology, and geology. He stated that creationists are willing to use the courts to achieve their aims, often bypassing scientific evidence and the scientific method.

The article details some of the creationist legal maneuvers, citing the Louisiana and Arkansas cases. While these cases were ultimately lost, the article suggests it was due to the clear demonstration of the creationists' intent to introduce narrow religious dogma into classrooms, which the Constitution prohibits. The legal cases did not delve into the scientific validity of creationism, which the author notes is fortunate, as it would place the judiciary in an inappropriate role.

Bennetta's talk was well-attended and well-received, with many attendees seeking literature and asking questions.

Recognition and Publication Information

BAS expresses gratitude to Apple Computer and Joe Wujek for their courage in addressing controversial subjects. The publication also thanks Bill Bennetta for representing BAS. The opinions expressed in "BASIS" are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of BAS or its advisors.

The issue consists of selected articles from the January 1989 "BASIS" publication. Information on obtaining a free sample copy is provided, along with contact details for Bay Area Skeptics and their "Skeptic's Board" BBS and hotline. The copyright is held by BAY AREA SKEPTICS, 1989.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, the importance of scientific investigation and evidence-based reasoning, and the defense of science education against the influence of creationism. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry, critical thinking, and the separation of church and state in public education. The publication actively seeks to counter misinformation and promote a skeptical perspective through media engagement and educational outreach.