The Bent Spoon - Volume 1 No 09

Magazine Overview

Title: The Bent Spoon
Issue: 9
Date: Undetermined

This issue of The Bent Spoon magazine positions itself as a unique publication within the paranormal media landscape, aiming to serve as a skeptical magazine for the true believer. It seeks to create a middle ground where both believers and skeptics can engage in conversation, fostering outreach and critical examination of paranormal claims.

Editorial Stance and Mission

The magazine's core mission is to address the perceived echo chamber effect in both believer and skeptic communities, where like-minded individuals reinforce their own beliefs without engaging with opposing viewpoints. The Bent Spoon aims to provide in-depth analysis, interviews with investigators and thinkers, and a critical perspective on both paranormal claims and skeptical debunking. It also includes lighter fare such as reviews and comic strips.

The tagline, "The Bent Spoon. Where extraordinary claims meet ordinary explanations," encapsulates its approach: to critically examine extraordinary claims with a focus on finding rational, evidence-based explanations.

Key Articles and Features

Mythconceptions: What We Know That Just Ain't So

This regular feature aims to correct commonly held, but false, beliefs. The inaugural piece tackles two popular 'mythconceptions':

1. The 10% Brain Usage Myth: The article debunks the idea that humans only use 10% of their brain, stating that we use our entire brain, just not all at once. It notes this myth is often used to support claims about psychic abilities.
2. Christopher Columbus Discovered the World Was Round: This is refuted by stating that philosophers and mathematicians like Pythagoras and Aristotle had already established the Earth's spherical nature long before Columbus's voyages. The myth is attributed to Washington Irving's 1828 biography of Columbus.

The article also addresses the common question of the 'King of the Jungle,' identifying the lion, and then points out the misconception that lions live in jungles, clarifying they inhabit the savannahs of Africa and Asia.

A Pathetic Grasp at Trying to Validate the Ghost Box

This article critically examines the use of ghost boxes in paranormal investigations, specifically focusing on claims made by Jenny Stewart, founder of the Paranormal Research and Resource Society. The author recounts an interview with Stewart on 'Strange Frequencies Radio' where she claimed a ghost box predicted details of a murder.

The author details a challenge issued to Stewart to provide raw audio and information, which Stewart allegedly failed to fully deliver. The article then compares Stewart's ghost box 'predictions' with actual police reports of the murder of Timothy Scott Bryant:

• Weapon: Stewart claimed 'shotgun'; reports state 'rifle'.
• Perpetrators: Stewart claimed '3 black males and 1 female'; reports confirm '5 individuals' (4 robbers and 1 accomplice).
• Stolen Items: Stewart claimed '$300'; reports indicate under '$500' worth of items including drugs, a CD, and a Bible, suggesting a higher value than just $300.

The author concludes that Stewart's predictions were largely inaccurate and attributes the perceived accuracy to subjective validation, where individuals interpret ambiguous data to fit their pre-existing beliefs. The author also notes Stewart's unprofessionalism in failing to follow through on agreements and ignoring confirmations for radio appearances.

Standard Deviation

This piece discusses the challenges faced by skeptics in the paranormal field. The author identifies two primary obstacles:

1. Presupposition and Bias: This stems from an individual's arrogance and can lead to immediate, instinctual reactions (e.g., dismissing a UFO photo as fake) without proper investigation. The author admits to struggling with this personally.
2. Jumping to a Final Conclusion Prematurely: This refers to the practice of declaring a case 'solved' or 'debunked' too quickly, often through unfledged debunking. The author criticizes the copy-pasting of conclusions without thorough analysis.

The article emphasizes that while mundane explanations should be favored, ruling out the extraordinary without sufficient evidence is also problematic. It suggests that the phrase "I don't know" should be more comfortable for paranormal investigators. The author also touches upon the difficulty of analyzing uncontrolled paranormal environments and the need for conclusive proof, stating that the burden of proof lies with those who favor supernatural explanations.

An example is given of a photograph that could be interpreted as a ghost, but also as pareidolia caused by a spider web, smoke, or even a photoshopped image. The author notes that without further evidence, all explanations are speculative, but mundane explanations are generally more likely.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical thinking, skepticism, and the rigorous examination of paranormal claims. The Bent Spoon actively promotes a balanced approach, encouraging dialogue between believers and skeptics while emphasizing the importance of evidence-based reasoning and the debunking of misinformation. The magazine's stance is clearly skeptical but open to genuine evidence, advocating for a middle ground that avoids both blind belief and dismissive skepticism. The issue highlights the pitfalls of subjective validation and the need for objective analysis in paranormal investigations.

This issue of "Open Forum" magazine, under the "SOUPERNATURAL" section, features a collection of articles and interviews exploring paranormal phenomena, investigation techniques, and the intersection of these with science. The magazine aims to foster dialogue between believers and skeptics, accepting submissions from various viewpoints.

Interviews and Discussions

Dustin Pari on Paranormal Investigations

Bobby Nelson and Jason Korbus interview Dustin Pari, a former cast member of "Ghost Hunters" and "Ghost Hunters International." Pari emphasizes his approach to investigations, which focuses on documenting experiences and helping clients rather than seeking notoriety. He expresses skepticism towards certain equipment, particularly EMF meters and Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP), suggesting that many EVPs can be explained by natural or rational means and that EMF readings are not scientifically correlated with paranormal activity. He believes that much of what is encountered is "residual nature" – energy playing out – and not necessarily demonic or interactive entities. Pari also discusses the importance of a cerebral approach to investigations, asking specific questions, and not jumping to conclusions.

Nigel Kerner and Faster-Than-Light (FTL) Particles

Bobby Nelson critically examines claims made by freelance journalist Nigel Kerner regarding the scientific confirmation of faster-than-light (FTL) particles, specifically tachyons. Nelson consults with theoretical astrophysicist Dan Hooper and quantum physicist Mark Alford, who both express skepticism about the OPERA experiment's findings of neutrinos traveling FTL. They explain that FTL travel would violate causality, leading to paradoxes like the "Tachyon Telephone Paradox." Physicists generally believe the OPERA results are likely due to miscalculation or systematic errors, and that science has not confirmed FTL particles. Nelson concludes that Kerner's claims are incorrect and that he seems to have a contradictory stance on science.

Jenny Stewart and Ghost Hunter Contradictions

Jason Korbus interviews Jenny Stewart, founder of the Paranormal Research and Resource Society. Stewart discusses her philosophy of ghost hunting and her research into spirit communication. Korbus notes contradictions in Stewart's statements, particularly her claim that her team's ghost box has provided pertinent information on cases, yet she also states it's used only as a tool and not as evidence. Her team's website, however, features numerous ghost box sound files as evidence. Stewart also appeals to the "science can't explain everything" argument when her methods are questioned, suggesting that some phenomena are outside the realm of science.

Chris DeMent on "Not As Seen On TV"

Chris DeMent shares his experiences as a paranormal investigator, having visited numerous homes. He highlights that many places investigated on TV shows are known to be haunted, which may skew results. DeMent expresses skepticism about "orbs," explaining them as dust particles or lint reflecting infrared light. He also questions the reliance on EMF meters, noting the lack of scientific evidence for EMF hypersensitivity. DeMent advocates for using equipment as a secondary piece of evidence and always questioning the data, emphasizing that his own firsthand experiences are "Not As Seen On TV."

Themes and Editorial Stance

EMF and EVP: Tools or Misinformation?

The issue repeatedly questions the validity and interpretation of common paranormal investigation tools like EMF meters and EVPs. While some investigators rely heavily on them, experts like Dustin Pari and Chris DeMent express significant skepticism, pointing to the lack of scientific correlation for EMF and the potential for misinterpretation of EVPs. The articles suggest that the proliferation of paranormal TV shows has led to the widespread adoption of these questionable methods, often spreading misinformation.

The Role of Science vs. Belief

A central theme is the tension between scientific evidence and personal belief in the paranormal. The critique of Nigel Kerner's FTL claims and the discussion around Jenny Stewart's methods highlight the tendency for some in the paranormal community to dismiss or selectively use scientific principles when they don't support their beliefs. The magazine encourages a discerning approach, urging readers to question evidence and understand the limitations of current scientific knowledge.

The Impact of Television on Paranormal Investigation

The influence of popular paranormal TV shows is a recurring point of discussion. The articles suggest that these shows, while potentially bringing the topic to a wider audience, often prioritize entertainment over accuracy, leading to the spread of misinformation and unrealistic expectations among both investigators and the public. The "Open Forum" section itself is presented as an effort to maintain a balanced dialogue, acknowledging both believers and skeptics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging a rational and evidence-based approach to paranormal investigation. While not dismissing the possibility of paranormal activity outright, it strongly advocates for skepticism, rigorous methodology, and a clear distinction between entertainment and genuine research. The editorial team values feedback and aims to provide a platform for open discussion, presenting both believer and skeptic viewpoints to encourage critical thinking within the paranormal community.

Title: The Bent Spoon
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Publisher: The Bent Spoon
Language: English

This issue of The Bent Spoon delves into various aspects of the paranormal and unexplained, offering critical perspectives on ghost hunting practices, reviewing a DVD compilation of mysteries, and showcasing a unique instance of pareidolia.

Ghost Hunting Honesty and Consistency

The lead article by the author expresses frustration with the lack of honesty and consistency among ghost hunters. The author uses the example of an interview with Jenny Stewart, a ghost hunter involved in the "Ghostbox Worldwide Experiment." Stewart's bio claims her work is rooted in "quantum mechanics," a statement the author dismisses as pseudoscientific. The author criticizes ghost hunters for simultaneously claiming they are not seeking fame while actively pursuing reality show opportunities and attention on social media. A key point of contention is the ghost hunting community's approach to evidence and scientific validation. The author notes that Stewart, despite claiming not to care about science, attempts to gain credibility with scientists. The article also touches upon Stewart's reaction to critical questions posed on an internet radio show, where she reportedly became angry and later apologized. The author expresses a desire to have her back on the show to discuss disagreements, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, even with those who hold opposing views.

Review: America's 60 Greatest Unsolved Mysteries & Crimes

This section reviews a DVD box set purchased for a low price, with the reviewer, Jason Korbus, expressing disappointment. The DVD covers a range of topics including the Natalee Holloway case, the JFK assassination conspiracy, Bigfoot, Jimmy Hoffa, and John Wilkes Booth. The primary criticism is that many of the so-called "unsolved mysteries" are, in fact, not unsolved, citing the JFK case and the fate of John Wilkes Booth as examples where clear conclusions exist. The review also singles out Troy Taylor, a recurring figure in the DVD and founder of the American Ghost Society, for his tendency to give credibility to numerous conspiracy theories, which the reviewer finds disheartening and indicative of a desperate need for attention. The reviewer rates the DVD "2 bent spoons," with one spoon for the subject matter being of interest and another for its utility in passing time, but ultimately advises against purchasing it due to its lack of serious investigation and poor production quality.

The Bent Spoon Submission Policy

This section outlines the magazine's policy on feedback and article submissions. The Bent Spoon welcomes criticisms, compliments, and suggestions. It also accepts article submissions, noting that they do not necessarily need to be from a skeptical viewpoint. For "true believers" who enjoy writing, the magazine introduces a new section called "The Open Forum." This section aims to keep the dialogue open between believers and skeptics, showcasing believers' viewpoints alongside at least one skeptical rebuttal. Inquiries and submissions can be sent to [email protected].

Pareidolia of the Month

This segment highlights an instance of pareidolia. Sonia Chamberlain of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, found a rock on a hike that she claims resembles the side profile of Jesus Christ, complete with a crown of thorns. The author humorously suggests it looks more like Darth Vader.

Paranormal Peer Review (Comic)

A comic strip titled "Paranormal Peer Review" by Nick Callis and Jason Korbus depicts two individuals in the dark, one asking "DID YOU HEAR THAT?" and the other responding "MHMM." The caption reads: "WHEN YOU'RE SITTING IN THE DARK AND YOU ASK YOUR FRIEND IF THEY HEARD THAT."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical examination of paranormal claims, the importance of honesty and scientific rigor in investigations, and the promotion of open dialogue between believers and skeptics. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a preference for evidence-based reasoning, while still acknowledging the interest in the paranormal and providing a platform for diverse viewpoints through "The Open Forum." The magazine encourages reader engagement and submissions, aiming to foster a community that can discuss these topics openly and critically.