The Bent Spoon - Volume 1 No 02

Magazine Overview

The Bent Spoon, June 2011

This issue of The Bent Spoon, a skeptical magazine published in June 2011, carries the cover headline "WE'RE STILL HERE: LIFE AFTER THE ANTICLIMAX OF MAY 21ST." The magazine's tagline, "Where extraordinary claims meet rational answers," sets the tone for its content, which aims to bridge the gap between believers and skeptics.

Mission Statement

The magazine's mission statement, detailed on page 2, highlights a perceived divide in paranormal media between those who believe and those who are skeptical. It criticizes both groups for operating in echo chambers. The Bent Spoon positions itself as a platform for dialogue, offering Q&A sessions, interviews, and articles that critically examine both believers and skeptics. It seeks to foster an attitude of outreach and create a middle ground for conversation.

The editorial team includes Nicholas Callis (Founder, graphics, layout, contributor), Bobby Nelson (Founder, contributor), Jason Korbus (Contributor, Soupernatural), and Rachel Wolf (Contributor, Skeptical Investigation). Special thanks are extended to Gunther Von Harringa, Mathew Baxer, and Greg Newkirk.

Feature Article: We Will All Still Be Here May 22nd, 2011

This feature article, appearing on page 3, likely discusses the anticlimax of May 21st, 2011, a date predicted for the end of the world by Harold Camping. The cover image includes a graphic from FamilyRadio.com related to "Judgment Day May 21."

Interview: Gunther Von Harringa

An interview with Gunther Von Harringa from Bible Ministries International appears on page 3. He is presented as explaining "the warnings of May 21st 2011."

Contents Overview

The table of contents on page 3 outlines the issue's sections: Editorial, In the News, Questions and Comments, Feature, Soupernatural, Making Amends, Skeptical Investigation, Paranormal Conjectures, Argument from Ignorance, Interview, Pareidolia of the Month, and Skeptic vs. Believer.

Editorial: I, Skeptic, Take Thee, Responsibility...

Written by Rachel Wolf, this editorial (page 4) emphasizes the responsibility of skeptics to be properly informed and to cross-reference information. Wolf outlines her "Golden Rule of Skepticism," providing five tips for critical research:

1. Being properly informed is a skeptic's responsibility: Don't rely on a single source; be responsible for the information you learn.
2. Find the original source: Verify information by locating the original study or report.
3. Ask questions: Contact authors or publications if information is unclear or sources are missing.
4. Use Wikipedia and other resource sites: Use Wikipedia as a starting point to find reference links.
5. If you can't understand, find someone to help you: Seek clarification on technical or complex terms.

Wolf also shares her background as a former believer in the paranormal and alternative medicine, now a proponent of skeptical and logical thinking, residing in Minnesota and pursuing a Master's degree in Behavior Analysis.

In the News

This section (page 5) covers several disparate news items:

• Perpetual Motion Machine: David Babb Sr. of Springfield, Oregon, is attempting to recreate a perpetual motion machine invented by his grandfather, Thomas Babb. David claims his machine "ran all night on its own power using the force of gravity." He expresses a desire for the invention to be shared, believing "the world needs this."
• Michael Jackson Photographs: Reginald Garcia in Los Angeles is selling his 33-year-old photographs of Michael Jackson to fund his "electrical impossibility." His partner, David Marohnic, explains that a reconfigured motor "captures the negative electromagnetic field as it collapses, sends energy to a capacitor and recharges the battery." The article notes that perpetual motion machines violate the laws of thermodynamics, specifically the first and second laws concerning the conservation of energy and entropy.

Questions & Comments

This section features reader correspondence and responses (pages 6-9):

• Reader "Ben" Critique: A reader expresses enjoyment of the magazine but questions the methodology in an article about "Tracking The Chupa Cabra." They argue that the author manipulated data to fit a conclusion and used definitive language like "undeniable" and "solved" inappropriately for eyewitness accounts. The reader suggests Ben should present possibilities rather than certainties and learn from Joe Nickell.

• Critique of Harold Camping Article: A reader named "DP" complains about the methodology used in an article critiquing Harold Camping. DP argues that the article took Jesus' sayings out of context to portray him as an apocalyptic prophet and then used this to mock Camping. DP contends that Jesus' phrases like "the kingdom of God" do not necessarily carry apocalyptic weight and that the article betrayed a bias against Christians.

• Response to DP: The magazine's response defends the interpretation of Jesus as an apocalypticist, citing biblical scholars like Albert Schweitzer and E.P. Sanders. It argues that Jesus' ministry began with John the Baptist, an apocalypticist, and that Jesus himself preached about the imminent kingdom of God. The response quotes various biblical passages (Mark 1:15, Matthew 3:1-12, Mark 8:38, Mark 13:24-27, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31) to support the claim that Jesus and his followers expected the end times. The response asserts that Harold Camping made explicit promises that did not happen and that the Bible was meant for its contemporary audience, not as a modern history book.

• Reader Michele Nardone: Michele questions why skeptics are criticized for using equipment to investigate paranormal claims, while paranormal investigators using the same equipment are not. She asks why skeptics are bashed for trying to prove "ghosts" are not real.

• Response to Michele Nardone: Jason Korbus responds, acknowledging the need for positive outreach from the skeptical community. He states that skepticism should not aim to prove certainties but rather to examine evidence. Korbus explains that skeptics use equipment like EMF meters and "Ghost Boxes" to find natural explanations for perceived phenomena. He notes that EMF is a naturally occurring force and is emitted by everyday appliances and the equipment itself, making it difficult to attribute EMF fluctuations to paranormal activity. He also points out that there is no repeatable, peer-reviewed study linking symptoms like headaches to EMF levels.

References

On page 9, the "Questions & Comments" section includes a list of references for the discussion on Jesus as an apocalypticist: "King James Bible," "Jesus: Apocalyptic Prophet" by Bart Ehrman, "The Historical Figure of Jesus" by Ed Sanders, and "The Quest of the Historical Jesus" by Albert Schweitzer, along with two web links.

Monster Talk Promotion

Page 10 features an advertisement for "Monster Talk: The Science Show About Monsters," presented by Skeptic Magazine. It invites listeners to join hosts Blake Smith, Benjamin Radford, and Dr. Karen Stollznow as they explore the facts behind mysterious creatures. The podcast is available through iTunes or other podcast aggregators, and its website is monstertalk.org.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism, critical thinking, and media analysis. The magazine consistently advocates for rigorous examination of claims, regardless of their origin (paranormal, religious, or scientific). There is a strong emphasis on the importance of evidence-based reasoning and the dangers of confirmation bias and echo chambers. The editorial stance is clearly that of a rationalist publication, aiming to debunk pseudoscience and unfounded beliefs while encouraging open dialogue and intellectual honesty. The magazine appears to be critical of both overly credulous believers and, at times, the methods or discourse of some within the skeptical community itself, striving for a balanced, evidence-based approach.

This issue of The Bent Spoon, dated May 2011, is a skeptical examination of paranormal phenomena and pseudoscientific theories. The magazine features articles by Bobby Nelson, Jason Korbus, Rachel Wolf, and Nicholas Callis, along with a radio segment preview.

"We Will All Still Be Here May 22nd" by Bobby Nelson

Bobby Nelson addresses the impending end-of-world prediction by Harold Camping and Family Radio for May 21st, 2011. Nelson expresses his certainty that nothing will happen, anticipating a hangover from his own "End of the World" party on May 20th. He notes that Family Radio has spent a significant amount of money on this campaign, including caravans and judgment day billboards. Nelson reminds readers that Harold Camping has a history of making failed date predictions, citing a 1992 prediction for the world to end in 1994, which he later explained away by the question mark in his book's title. Camping is now claiming the May 21st, 2011 prediction is 100% certain. Nelson reassures those terrified by the prediction, especially children, that the world will not end. He speculates on how Camping might explain away the non-event, suggesting Camping will likely attribute it to God's mercy, similar to the sparing of the Ninevites, or claim a miscalculation. Nelson contrasts this with the possibility of Camping admitting he was wrong and irresponsible. The article highlights the tragic consequences for followers who have sold their possessions and spent their savings, mentioning Robert Fitzpatrick, who spent $140,000, and Lyn Benedetto, who harmed herself and her daughters to avoid the Tribulation. Nelson expresses a mix of pity and frustration for those who fall prey to such claims.

"Spontaneous Human Combustion" by Jason Korbus

Jason Korbus investigates Spontaneous Human Combustion (SHC), a topic frequently featured in paranormal media. He states that despite its intriguing nature, there is no scientific evidence to support SHC as a real phenomenon. Historically, excessive drinking was blamed, as seen in a 17th-century story and Charles Dickens' novel 'Bleak House,' but Korbus dismisses this as impossible due to alcohol poisoning. The most cited case is that of Mary Reeser, the "Cinder Lady," whose remains were found largely ash in her apartment in 1951. While initially perplexing, the FBI concluded that Reeser's body was incinerated by the "wick effect." Reeser was a heavy smoker who took sleeping pills and likely fell asleep with a cigarette, igniting her flammable nightclothes. The FBI's report explains that body fat can sustain burning, leading to near-complete combustion. Korbus acknowledges this explanation sounds incredible but asserts that the "wick effect" has been proven through experiments. He notes common factors in SHC cases: the victim is often a heavy smoker, wears flammable clothing, and may be impaired by sleeping pills or alcohol. Korbus then discusses Larry Arnold, a proponent of SHC, who bills himself as the "Director of Parascience International." Arnold's theories involve a hypothetical subatomic particle called a "Pyrotron" and "kundalini" bio-energy, which Korbus dismisses as unscientific speculation with no basis in quantum physics or biology. Korbus criticizes Arnold for invoking scientific terms to lend credibility to unsubstantiated claims and for admitting his theories cannot be reproduced in a laboratory. He concludes that urban legends of SHC cannot be verified, believers speculate instead of investigate, and available science disproves its existence.

"Feeling the Future” or Behavior Modification? part one by Rachel Wolf

Rachel Wolf reviews a study by Dr. Daryl J. Bem published in The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, which she argues does not support parapsychology but may disprove it. The paper details nine lab experiments conducted over ten years. Wolf focuses on experiments related to precognition (approach and avoidance) and affective priming (retroactive priming). In experiment #1, "Precognitive Detection of Erotic Stimuli," participants guessed which of two curtains hid an erotic image. Results showed a hit rate of 53.1%, slightly above chance, which Bem suggested could be influenced by psychokinesis. Wolf questions this, noting the use of a Random Number Generator (RNG) and the possibility of participants influencing the RNG. In experiment #2, "Precognitive Avoidance of Negative Stimuli," participants chose between two images, with a positive image flashed subliminally if they chose correctly and a negative image if they chose incorrectly. The hit rate was 51.7%, also slightly above chance. Wolf argues that these results do not prove precognition for several reasons. First, Bem himself notes that replications may not be viable due to the specific participants and erotic images used, suggesting the findings may not generalize. Second, she points out that the 3.1% above chance, while statistically significant, doesn't account for error and that the RNG and participant selections might have simply coincided by chance, a phenomenon known as non-contingent reinforcement (NCR). Wolf suggests that Bem may have stumbled upon a scientifically sound explanation for the observed effects, but it is related to behavior modification and response to reinforcement, not precognition. She posits that the experiments may be designed to elicit biases or motivate participants to guess quickly to avoid negative stimuli, rather than demonstrating psychic ability. Wolf concludes that the experiments likely demonstrate behavior modification, not precognition.

"Paranormal Conjectures" by Nicholas Callis

Nicholas Callis examines several popular paranormal theories, labeling them as "theories" in the colloquial sense rather than scientific ones. He first addresses the idea that ghosts are "energy." Callis explains that energy is a scalar quantity representing a system's ability to perform work, akin to a car's horsepower. He argues that equating ghosts to "energy" is vague and that if it refers to metaphysical concepts like life force or Ki, it falls outside the realm of physics and thus conservation of energy does not apply, invalidating the "theory." He then discusses the "Stone Tape Theory," which posits that minerals like limestone and quartz can record emotional energy from traumatic events. Callis dismisses this due to the lack of evidence for such "emotional energy" and any known method of measurement. He notes that while quartz is piezoelectric, this property does not support the idea of recording moments in time. He traces the "Stone Tape Theory" to books by Thomas Lethbridge and Peter Sasdy. Callis also critiques the "water tape theory," proposed by Jacques Benveniste, which suggests water can retain "emotional crisis energy" from traumatic events. He points out that Benveniste's experiments were controversial and non-repeatable, and that Dr. Maseru Emoto's claims about water memory are also unscientific. Callis argues that if water could retain such energies, the world would be saturated with them, making the concept absurd. He then examines the "Interdimensional Being" hypothesis, often used to explain UFOs and "Intelligent Hauntings" or "Shadow People." Callis states that while string theory suggests extra dimensions, they are thought to be extremely small and hypothetical, not parallel worlds as often misunderstood. He criticizes paranormal investigators for misinterpreting scientific concepts and concludes that for paranormal investigators to be taken seriously by science, they must take science seriously.

"The Argument From Ignorance" by Bobby Nelson

Bobby Nelson explains the logical fallacy known as the "argument from ignorance." This fallacy occurs when the lack of evidence against a claim is used as evidence for the claim, or when the lack of evidence for a claim is used as evidence against it. Nelson provides examples from ghost hunting, such as "since there is no evidence against the existence of ghosts, ghosts exist," or attributing a shadow seen in peripheral vision to a "shadow person" simply because its identity is unknown. He emphasizes that this fallacy creates a false dichotomy, presenting only two outcomes when more possibilities exist. Nelson also addresses the common claim that "you can't say ghosts do not exist, science hasn't disproven them," stating that this does not strengthen the case for ghosts. He highlights that the burden of proof lies with the person making the claim, not the person opposing it. If a claimant has no evidence, it is not an argument from ignorance for the opponent to assume the premise is false until positive evidence is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Bent Spoon adopts a strongly skeptical stance towards paranormal claims, consistently applying scientific reasoning and logical analysis to debunk pseudoscientific theories. The magazine aims to provide a platform for critical examination, encouraging readers to question unsubstantiated beliefs and to rely on empirical evidence and logical fallacies. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, valuing scientific methodology and evidence-based conclusions over anecdotal accounts and speculative theories. The magazine appears to be founded on the principle of seeking truth through rational investigation, even if it means challenging deeply held beliefs.

This issue of "AMAZING" magazine, dated July 14-17, 2011, focuses on The Amazing Meeting (TAM) 2011, an annual celebration of skepticism, science, and critical thinking held in Las Vegas. The cover features host James Randi and a lineup of prominent speakers including Neil deGrasse Tyson, Richard Dawkins, Bill Nye, Penn & Teller, Adam Savage, and many others. The magazine also includes an in-depth interview with Gunther von Harringa regarding his predictions for the end of the world and the Rapture, specifically focusing on the date May 21, 2011.

The Amazing Meeting 2011

The Amazing Meeting (TAM) is described as the world's largest annual gathering for skeptics, fostering learning, laughter, and camaraderie. The 2011 event took place from July 14-17 at the South Point Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The issue highlights the extensive list of speakers and interactive workshops offered, covering topics such as 'Skepticism in the Classroom,' 'Advancing Skepticism Online,' and 'Science Based Medicine.' Evening shows and special events, like Penn Jillette's 'Rock & Roll, Donut & Bacon Party,' were also featured.

Interview with Gunther von Harringa: The May 21, 2011 Prediction

The core of the magazine's content delves into the controversial prediction of the Rapture and Judgment Day on May 21, 2011, as advocated by Harold Camping and his followers. The interview with Gunther von Harringa, who was recommended by the Family Radio Network, explores his beliefs and the 'proofs' he cites from the Bible.

Biblical Interpretation and Numerical Analysis

Von Harringa explains that the Rapture involves believers being 'caught up' to meet the Lord, preceded by a worldwide earthquake. Those not saved will be expelled from their graves, followed by 153 days of 'God's Judgment' culminating in the universe's incineration on October 21, 2011. He presents three main 'proofs' for the May 21, 2011 date:

1. Proof #1: The 'Time Clue' (2 Peter 3:8): This verse states that 'one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.' This is linked to the Flood narrative in Genesis 7:4-5, suggesting God uses a pattern of doubling for emphasis.
2. Proof #2: Noah's Flood Date (Genesis 7:11): The biblical account of Noah's Flood is cited, specifically the seventeenth day of the second month in Noah's 600th year. This date, when calculated using a lunar calendar, aligns with May 21, 2011.
3. Proof #3: The Number of Days: The period between Christ's Crucifixion (April 1, 33 AD) and May 21, 2011, is calculated to be 722,500 days. This number is broken down into factors (5 x 10 x 17 x 5 x 10 x 17), which are interpreted as having spiritual significance: 5 for salvation/destruction, 10 for completeness, and 17 for Heaven. The 'doubling up' of these factors is seen as God emphasizing the importance of the date, similar to Pharaoh's doubled dream in Genesis 41:32.

Addressing Criticisms and 'Circular Logic'

The interview acknowledges the 'circular logic' often employed in such predictions: the Bible is true because it's the word of God, and it's the word of God because the Bible says so. The article also includes commentary from Bobby Nelson, the interviewer, who points out this logical fallacy. Furthermore, the article references an analysis by Dan Stevens, who argues that the statistical probability of finding significant factors in the number 722,500 is extremely low, refuting the idea that 'lots of patterns' are easily generated by chance.

Biblical 'Signs' and 'Tribulations'

Von Harringa discusses the 'signs' of the times outlined in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, asserting that these have all been fulfilled, indicating the imminent end. He highlights three 'great tribulation' periods mentioned in the Bible: the 7 years of famine during Joseph's time (1877 BC), the 70 years of Babylonian exile (609-539 BC), and the current 23-year period from May 21, 1988, to May 21, 2011. Each period is linked to the number 84 (84 months in 7 years, 840 months in 70 years, 8400 days in 23 years).

The 'Great Tribulation' is described as a time of spiritual deception. The period is divided into two parts: the first began May 21, 1988, and the second started on September 7, 1994 (a Jubilee year), during which a 'great multitude' is being saved. However, on May 21, 2011, the door to salvation would be permanently shut.

The Role of Family Radio and Harold Camping

The article notes that Family Radio served as a platform for Harold Camping's message. It also addresses the aftermath of the failed May 21st prediction. Bobby Nelson recounts his email correspondence with Gunther von Harringa, who initially deferred comment and then forwarded an email from Harold Camping. Camping stated that the Rapture had occurred spiritually, not physically, and reiterated the end-of-world prediction for October 21, 2011. The magazine also mentions a 'Rapture Ready Radio' organization protesting Harold Camping.

Pareidolia of the Month

This section features Christine Snowdon, a believer in angels, who claims to have seen an angelic being in cloud formations. The magazine uses this as an example of pareidolia, the psychological phenomenon of perceiving meaningful images in random patterns.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine, through its content, particularly the interview with Gunther von Harringa, engages with the theme of end-times prophecy and biblical interpretation. The editorial stance, as presented by the interviewer Bobby Nelson, is skeptical of such predictions, highlighting logical fallacies and the historical failure of similar forecasts. However, it also aims to present the arguments of believers respectfully, allowing them to explain their reasoning based on their interpretation of scripture. The Amazing Meeting itself represents a commitment to critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning, contrasting with the faith-based predictions discussed in the interview.

Title: The Bent Spoon
Issue: NEXT ISSUE:
Cover Headline: SPIRIT COMMUNICATION

This issue of The Bent Spoon magazine centers on the theme of spirit communication, with a strong visual emphasis on the Ouija board. The cover art prominently displays a Ouija board and planchette, with hands guiding the planchette, suggesting an exploration of methods and experiences related to contacting spirits.

Content Highlights

The cover mentions "Matthew Baxter," "Frank's Box," and "EVP" (Electronic Voice Phenomena), indicating that these topics are likely covered within the issue. The Ouija board itself is depicted with details of its origin, noting it was "MADE BY WILLIAM FULD" and manufactured in "BALTIMORE MD." The trademark and registration details for the board are also visible, highlighting its commercial and historical significance.

Themes and Tags

The primary themes explored in this issue revolve around "Spirit Communication" and the use of the "Ouija Board." Related tags include "Matthew Baxter," "Frank's Box," "EVP," "Paranormal," "Séance," "Occult," "Supernatural," and "Baltimore."

Editorial Stance

While the specific editorial stance is not fully detailed without the interior content, the focus on spirit communication and tools like the Ouija board suggests an interest in the paranormal and unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to be a platform for discussing these subjects, potentially including personal experiences, historical accounts, and investigative approaches.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is clearly paranormal investigation and communication with the spirit world, as evidenced by the title "The Bent Spoon" (often associated with psychokinesis or psychic phenomena) and the cover's focus on spirit communication tools. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the occult, supernatural, and unexplained, providing content that delves into these areas.