The Bent Spoon - Volume 1 No 08

Magazine Overview

Title: THE BENT SPOON
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial Stance and Mission

The Bent Spoon positions itself as a unique publication in the paranormal media landscape, catering to 'true believers' while adopting a skeptical approach. It aims to bridge the divide between fervent believers and staunch skeptics, who often operate in echo chambers, reinforcing their own beliefs without engaging with opposing viewpoints. The magazine intends to foster a middle ground by providing in-depth analysis, Q&A sessions with opposing viewpoints, interviews with investigators and thinkers, reviews, and comic strips. Its core mission is to encourage critical thinking and a conversation about paranormal issues, offering ordinary explanations for extraordinary claims.

"In The News" - Skeptical Analysis of UFO Videos

This section critically examines a recent video of mysterious lights, purposed to exhibit strange aerial phenomena. The author expresses skepticism, suggesting the lights appear to be reflections of handheld objects in the cameraman's window. Evidence is presented through 'Exhibits A, B, and C': Exhibit A points to a visible window frame, Exhibit B notes the camera's auto-focus malfunctioning due to alternating focal points between the glass and the sky, and Exhibit C describes the object's 'vanishing' as a gradual covering by an opaque object, suggesting an illusion created by a small LED flashlight. The article also references two photographs from the UK (Chatham and Essex) captured a week apart, which are presented as similar hoaxes, illustrated by a diagram showing how an ordinary desk lamp and a double-glazed window can create the illusion of UFOs.

Addendum - Nicholas Callis's Skepticism

Nicholas Callis, Co-founder of The Bent Spoon, expresses his arduous experience writing a news column due to the perceived lack of genuine puzzles from the paranormal community, citing a 'constant stream of less than mediocre photographs and videos.' He reiterates his skepticism, attributing it to unconvincing 'evidence' presented by paranormal investigation teams who fail to adapt their methods. Callis extends an open challenge to anyone with legitimate evidence of the paranormal to submit it to The Bent Spoon for explanation and duplication, questioning if anyone can 'stump us.'

"Stigmata" - Examining the Phenomenon

This article delves into the phenomenon of stigmata, the wounds that appear on individuals, mirroring those of Jesus Christ's crucifixion. It begins with a historical context of crucifixion, detailing the brutal method and the various ways individuals were affixed to the cross, noting that historical accounts suggest binding with ropes was more common than nailing, and that nailing through the wrists is more plausible than through the palms. The article questions the accuracy of the Gospel of John's account of Jesus being nailed, as it was written 100 years after the event. Regarding stigmata, the article states that claimed wounds appear supernaturally on hands, feet, backs, and foreheads, often emitting a pleasant scent and healing without scars. It cites the first case of stigmata in St. Francis of Assisi and the more recent case of Padre Pio. However, the article strongly questions the authenticity of stigmata, suggesting it is often self-inflicted, potentially through the use of chemicals like carbolic acid or caustic soda, which can mimic the appearance of wounds. It concludes that there is no scientific evidence for stigmata, highlighting that the bleeding often occurs only when individuals are unobserved.

"Unraveling the Shroud of Turin" - A Critical Examination

This section critically examines the Shroud of Turin, a linen cloth purported to bear the imprint of Jesus Christ's crucified body. The article questions the claim of its supernatural origin, noting that there is no record of its existence until 1353, which is inconsistent with it being the burial cloth of Jesus. It details the history of the Shroud, starting with its appearance in a church in France in 1353, where it was used in a 'bogus miracle cure scam.' Bishop Pierre d'Arcis contacted the Antipope Clement VII, presenting testimony from an artist who claimed to have painted the image on the Shroud, thus attesting to it being a work of human skill. Despite this, Clement VII allowed it to be displayed but with a disclaimer stating it was not the true Shroud. The Shroud eventually made its way to Turin, Italy, in 1578. The article also discusses the 1978 STURP examination, which found no signs of oil painting or watercolor but did find sticky tape samples containing hemoglobin and serum albumin, leading to the belief that the Shroud contained actual blood. However, the article points out that blood was not found directly on the Shroud, only on the tape samples, and that the blood's color (yellow to red) is inconsistent with aged blood. It also mentions the 'Argument from Ignorance' fallacy, where lack of explanation is equated with a supernatural cause. Another STURP team member, Walter McCone, testified that the image was made of pigments common in the Middle Ages (red ochre for the body, red vermillion tempera for the blood), and standard forensic tests for blood were negative. The article also touches upon the work of criminologist Max Frei, whose sticky tape samples showed pollen from extinct Palestinian plants, but notes Frei's questionable credentials due to past errors in document analysis, including misidentifying Hitler's diaries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Bent Spoon are skepticism towards paranormal claims, critical analysis of evidence, and the promotion of scientific reasoning. The magazine consistently adopts a critical stance, seeking rational explanations for phenomena often attributed to the supernatural. It challenges the validity of anecdotal evidence and photographic or video 'proof,' advocating for rigorous investigation and logical deduction. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting critical thinking and debunking unsubstantiated claims, aiming to educate readers and encourage a more discerning approach to paranormal subjects.

This issue of The Bent Spoon, titled 'MIRACLE? I DOUBT IT,' presents a collection of articles that critically examine phenomena often attributed to the supernatural, focusing on skepticism and the importance of evidence-based reasoning. The magazine features an in-depth look at the Shroud of Turin, a discussion on the nature of miracles, and an exposé on the fabricated claims of Dannion Brinkley.

The Shroud of Turin: Scientific Scrutiny

The articles delve into the scientific investigations surrounding the Shroud of Turin. Initial pollen findings by scientists like Frei are disputed, with experts questioning the methodology and the uniqueness of the results, suggesting they might be from lab specimens or contamination. Avinoam Danin's identification of flower images on the Shroud is also presented with skepticism, noting the lack of corroborating evidence and Danin's own admission of not examining the Shroud personally. The core of the scientific challenge to the Shroud's authenticity lies in the 1988 carbon dating performed by three independent labs: Oxford University, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, and the University of Arizona. These labs, using accelerator mass spectrometry, dated the linen to the range of 1260-1390 A.D. The article dismisses claims that the 1532 fire skewed the results, citing microchemist Dr. Walter McCrone who called such suggestions 'ludicrous.' The text also highlights that the dating aligns with the Shroud's first historical appearance in Lirey, France. Further doubt is cast by comparing the Shroud's depiction with Jewish burial traditions of Christ's era, noting the absence of expected spices like myrrh and aloes, the presence of blood, and the man's long hair, which contradicts Jewish customs of shaving. The article concludes that while the Vatican may display the Shroud, it does not officially recognize it as the true burial cloth of Christ, suggesting it is a medieval forgery.

Defining Miracles: A Philosophical and Historical Perspective

Another significant section of the magazine explores the concept of miracles. It begins by referencing the movie 'Bruce Almighty,' where God (Morgan Freeman) redefines miracles not as supernatural interventions but as acts of courage, intelligence, and strong will performed by ordinary people. The article contrasts this with the philosophical definition by David Hume, which defines a miracle as a 'transgression of a Law of Nature by a particular volition of the deity or by the interposition of some invisible agent.' The author argues that attributing everyday acts of resilience or survival to miracles is a form of 'intellectual laziness' and disrespects the individuals who achieve them. The text questions why historical accounts of miracles, such as those involving Jesus, are not corroborated by historical records, suggesting that historians, unlike scientists, cannot repeat experiments to verify events. A list of events considered miracles by Hume's definition is provided, including creation, the flood, Jesus turning water into wine, and his resurrection. However, the article posits that these events, if they occurred, are not supported by historical evidence and that the Bible is not a historically reliable text. The author concludes that miracles, by definition, are improbable events and that seeking natural explanations is more fulfilling than resorting to supernatural ones.

Blinded by the Lies: The Dannion Brinkley Case

The magazine features a critical investigation into the claims of Dannion Brinkley, who gained notoriety for his book 'Saved By the Light,' detailing a near-death experience (NDE) after being struck by lightning. The article systematically debunks Brinkley's narrative, presenting evidence that contradicts his accounts. Initially, Brinkley claimed to be dead for 28 minutes, with a paramedic pronouncing him dead. However, an interview with newspaper reporter Carl Langley from 1975 reveals Brinkley stating he was only 'out for a few minutes' and that his wife saved him before paramedics arrived. Furthermore, Dr. Gilmore Eaves, who attended to Brinkley, stated that Brinkley was 'completely lucid' and never mentioned being dead or traveling to heaven. The article suggests Brinkley has fabricated his story to sell books and gain fame, charging significant amounts for psychic readings and spiritual advice. It highlights how Brinkley has altered his story over time, especially when confronted with evidence, and infers that he has waited for witnesses like Langley and Dr. Eaves to pass away before making further claims. The piece concludes that Brinkley is a fraud who has given false hope and made a fortune from his invented NDE narrative.

The Open Forum and Editorial Stance

Finally, the magazine introduces 'The Open Forum,' a new section intended to foster dialogue between believers and skeptics, accepting submissions from various viewpoints. The overall editorial stance of The Bent Spoon is clearly skeptical, advocating for critical thinking, scientific evidence, and rational explanations over faith-based or unsubstantiated claims. The magazine encourages readers to question extraordinary claims and to seek verifiable facts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards supernatural claims, the importance of scientific evidence, and the debunking of alleged miracles and paranormal experiences. The editorial stance is strongly in favor of rationalism and critical inquiry, challenging readers to question commonly accepted narratives and to rely on verifiable facts rather than faith or anecdotal evidence. The magazine aims to provide a platform for reasoned discourse on topics often shrouded in mystery or belief.

This issue of The Skeptic magazine, identified as issue 101 and dated approximately May 2011, explores the complex relationship between skepticism, paranormal beliefs, neuroscience, and media reporting. The content is primarily in English and features articles and discussions that aim to critically examine phenomena often associated with the supernatural.

The Obsession with the Paranormal and Neuroscience

The magazine opens with a discussion on why skeptics might be in the minority regarding paranormal beliefs. It posits that most people, including skeptics, don't deeply analyze their paranormal beliefs, often citing experiences that are difficult to explain, like precognitive dreams or coincidences. These experiences lead them to believe the world is mysterious and that paranormal beliefs offer a sense of control over chaotic factors, providing comfort and predictability. Neuroscience is presented as having significant insights into these phenomena.

The Backfire Effect and Cognitive Biases

A key theme is the 'backfire effect,' where individuals tend to hold onto their original beliefs even more firmly when presented with contradictory information. This is explored through the lens of evolutionary psychology and social interactions. The argument is made that it was adaptive to quickly identify friends and foes. If a belief is associated with an 'out-group,' it is questioned more vigorously. Conversely, beliefs held by one's 'in-group' are trusted more. This process of counterarguing, even silently, makes beliefs more memorable and reinforces them through confirmation bias and the illusion of truth bias, leading individuals to become more convinced of their original views.

Strategies to Counteract the Backfire Effect

Several strategies are suggested to combat the backfire effect. These include breaking down the 'out-group' barrier, demonstrating friendship, and making cases more memorable through multiple approaches, such as using pictures and encouraging active engagement from the individual. The success of climate scientists in shifting attitudes over time through converging evidence and diverse marketing strategies is cited as an example.

Alternative Medicine and Beliefs

The issue touches upon cases where individuals opt for 'alternative treatments' or supernatural explanations over medical science, sometimes with dire consequences. A specific case of a girl in Colorado who believed 'magic' dirt healed her cancer is discussed. The author expresses anger towards those who exploit people with false information. The preference for alternative cures is attributed to the fact that not all medical treatments work for everyone, and the fear of serious side effects. The perceived honesty of medical science about its shortcomings is contrasted with the often-untested nature of alternative cures. A distrust of traditional medicine, sometimes fueled by perceptions of doctors and pharmaceutical companies being profit-driven, also plays a role, making healers from similar backgrounds more relatable and trustworthy.

Skepticism and Identity

The author, Phillip McErlaft, discusses his reluctance to label himself as a 'skeptic,' preferring to think of himself as skeptical by nature. He finds the stereotyping associated with the label problematic and worries about alienating potential audiences. He suggests the skeptical movement would benefit from emphasizing similarities between believers and skeptics as much as differences.

Memory and Recollection

McErlaft explains his work on how brains process memories, particularly event recollections. He describes memory as a reconstruction process, influenced by current mood, beliefs, and surroundings. The hippocampus plays a crucial role in laying down new memory traces. The act of remembering makes memories vulnerable, allowing for updates when new information demonstrates a changed situation. This system, while adaptive, can be devastating when it goes awry, as in cases of PTSD.

"Miracle Detectives" and Media Portrayal

McErlaft shares his experience on the television show "Miracle Detectives," where he interacted with believers and skeptics. He explains how his scientific training helped him approach interviews objectively, ask relevant questions, and test claims. He acknowledges the challenges of editing for television, noting that while the show was generally fair, one episode manufactured an emotion of devastation, which he felt was out of place and possibly done to make the story more believable.

Reporting Science News

Phillip McErlaft critiques the way many media outlets report science news, highlighting a lack of critical thinking in society. He points to news organizations that employ 'hosts' over reporters, prioritize entertainment over accuracy, and over-emphasize minority opinions to create a sense of balance. He uses the example of Fox News' reaction to the CDC's 'zombie apocalypse' preparedness campaign as an instance of outrage and lack of fact-checking.

The Rise of Paranormal Media

The proliferation of television shows about the paranormal is noted, with nearly 50 shows on the air. These shows often use sophisticated equipment and claim to employ 'scientific methods,' but their theories are frequently flawed or made up, with no tangible results. The author expresses concern that these shows present themselves as experts, contributing to a decline in critical thinking.

The Commercialization of the Paranormal

A significant critique is leveled against the commercialization of paranormal investigations and events. The author expresses frustration with people who charge fees for information that is not backed by science or evidence, often labeling events as 'educational' or 'charity' to justify the costs. He argues that this promotes ignorance and intellectual laziness, as paranormal explanations are often used to avoid rigorous scientific inquiry. He suggests that if people are truly interested in charity, they should organize car washes or bake sales rather than promoting unsubstantiated claims.

Auditory Phenomena and Skepticism

Michele Nardone poses a question about hearing unexplained voices (EVPs) and how age-related hearing loss might affect ghost hunting investigations. Nicholas Callis responds, explaining that human hearing decreases with age, particularly at higher frequencies. He suggests that EVPs, if they are indeed high-frequency, might be inaudible to most people. However, he also points out that paranormal investigations are uncontrolled scenarios with numerous variables, and that auditory phenomena can be the result of environmental noise being misinterpreted by the brain's tendency to find patterns. He advises considering all plausible possibilities before settling on one.

Pareidolia of the Month

The issue concludes with the "Pareidolia of the Month" award, given to Sarah Crane, who claims to see the face of Jesus Christ in her sock. The humorous anecdote highlights the human tendency to find meaningful patterns in random visual stimuli.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the critical examination of paranormal beliefs, the role of neuroscience and cognitive biases in shaping these beliefs, and the critique of media and commercial practices that exploit or misrepresent phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and a cautious approach to claims that lack scientific validation. The magazine aims to inform its readers about the psychological and neurological underpinnings of belief and to challenge unsubstantiated claims, particularly those presented in a sensationalized or commercialized manner.