Indian Skeptic - 2010 01

Magazine Overview

Title: INDIAN SKEPTIC
Issue: No. 01/01
Date: January 2010
Publisher: manoj

This issue marks a significant transition as the 'Bangalore Skeptic' ezine is relaunched and renamed 'Indian Skeptic'. The editorial explains that this decision was made during the 7th National Conference of the Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA) to honor the legacy of Basava Premanad, the former publisher of a print magazine titled 'Indian Skeptic', who passed away on October 4, 2009. While this ezine is not a legal continuation of Premanad's magazine, it aims to uphold his vision of a secular India and serve as an unofficial organ for rationalist groups.

Key Articles and Content

"Am I a Hindu?" by Narendra Nayak

Narendra Nayak addresses the question of identity and the challenges faced by rationalists when engaging with audiences about religious beliefs. He discusses the potential for a spiritual vacuum if people lose their faith and how Christian missionaries might exploit this. Nayak clarifies that his movement focuses on exposing miracles, particularly those claimed within Hinduism, but emphasizes that a miracle is a miracle regardless of religion. He explains that the higher percentage of Hindus in India statistically leads to more claimed Hindu miracles. He also addresses common questions, such as why they focus on Hindu miracles, asserting that there is no such thing as a 'Hindu miracle' and that the focus is on exposing fraud. He clarifies his own identity as a Humanist and an atheist, not bound by religious rituals or caste systems. The article also touches upon the exploitation of religious beliefs by charlatans and the need to question the claims of supernatural powers.

"Atheist Eve" by Tracie Harris

This section features a comic strip titled 'Atheist Eve' by Tracie Harris. The comic engages in a philosophical dialogue about the nature of God, free will, and morality, particularly in the context of child rape. It questions the concept of a benevolent God who allows suffering and challenges the idea that actions condoned by God are inherently good, even if they conflict with human moral reasoning.

"Ghettoes in the Making" by Ram Puniyani

Ram Puniyani's article examines the social and political situation of Muslims in India, particularly in the aftermath of the Gujarat carnage. It details how Muslim charities, stepping in after state neglect, imposed strict codes of conduct, including restrictions on education, music, and dress, effectively creating 'ghettoes'. The article highlights the opposition faced by those who wished for modern education and jobs. It contrasts the situation with the past, where Muslims were more inclined towards modern vocations, and attributes the current conservatism and insecurity to communal violence and the rise of right-wing politics. The article argues that the myth of Madrassas being breeding grounds for terrorists is used to demonize the community, while in reality, Indian Madrassas primarily teach the Quran. The author draws parallels between the ghettoization of Muslims in India and the historical treatment of Shudras in Ancient India and African Americans in the US, suggesting a deliberate creation of a second-class citizenry.

"Notes of an Agnostic" by Keshava Shet Revankar

This section is not detailed in the provided pages, but its title suggests a personal reflection on agnosticism.

"FIRA - VII National Conference - A Report"

This report covers the 7th National Conference of the Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA), held on December 26-27, 2009, in Chennai. The conference likely focused on promoting rationalist thought and secular values.

"Tools for Skeptical Thinking" by Carl Sagan

This entry, attributed to Carl Sagan, likely discusses principles and methods for critical thinking and skepticism, encouraging readers to apply scientific reasoning to various claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The 'Indian Skeptic' ezine strongly advocates for rationalism, skepticism, and secularism. It actively critiques religious dogma, supernatural claims, and the exploitation of faith for personal gain. The publication aims to foster an intellectual culture that is scientifically minded, open-minded, and politically progressive. The editorial stance is critical of religious fundamentalism and communal politics, advocating for a society free from superstition and dogmatism. The transition to 'Indian Skeptic' signifies a commitment to continuing the fight for reason and secular values in India.

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated January 2010, features a cover story titled "Notes of an Agnostic" by Keshava Shet Revankar. The magazine focuses on rationalism, skepticism, and critiques of religious and social practices in India.

Notes of an Agnostic

The lead article by Keshava Shet Revankar offers a critical perspective on Hinduism, asserting that its "priest craft" has maintained societal darkness through indoctrination. The author laments the failure to uphold Article 51 A (h) of the Indian Constitution, which promotes scientific temper and humanism, citing a recent increase in religiosity. Dr. Prabhakar Kamath, a psychiatrist in the USA, is cited for diagnosing the "Hindu-Psyche" as an "Obsessive-Compulsive- Disorder." The article also references Ms. Meera Nanda's book "God Market," which discusses the "State-Temple-Corporate-Complex."

The author shares a personal experience of losing faith after being denied holy water ('thirtha') in a temple, an incident that led him to discard his holy thread and reject obscurantism. He draws a parallel between the behavior of moths, which are drawn to artificial lights and often perish, and the behavior of people who circle deities, suggesting a similar irrational attraction.

On Buddhism & Caste System

This section discusses how Buddhism aimed to establish an egalitarian society, contrasting it with the "Vaidic Purohits" who, according to the author, demolished Buddha's pillars of awareness and compassion to erect the pillars of "chaturvarna" (caste system) and "karma-kanda" (ritualism). The caste system is blamed for social entropy, poverty, and mental stagnation, with Shankaracharya's four "Mutts" seen as a means to suppress Buddhism. The article criticizes the "Brahminic-Elitism" and the pursuit of wealth through corruption, while also noting the rise of "godmen" and the exploitation of people by religious leaders and astrologers.

Hinduism is described as a "sexed-up polytheism" and a "huge subterfuge" for the self-glorification of Kshatriyas and Vaidic Brahmins. The article traces the origins of temples and elaborate ceremonies to the Gupta period, suggesting that the hedonistic lifestyle of Kshatriyas led to a decline in valor, making India vulnerable to invasions.

State-Temple-Corporate-Complex

This section elaborates on the "State-Temple-Corporate-Complex," referencing Meera Nanda's book. It highlights N.R. Narayana Murthy's statement, "I am a Brahmin and I am minority," and criticizes the historical misery caused by a small minority to a large population. The article also touches upon the concept of "samadhis" of ascetics being glorified versions of "Corpse-Worship" and references Charles Grant Blairfindie Allen's view that the cult of the dead is the earliest origin of religion.

Jawaharlal Nehru Quote

A quote attributed to Jawaharlal Nehru emphasizes the current age as one of "disillusion, of doubt and uncertainty and questioning," where ancient beliefs are no longer accepted, and people are searching for new ways through debate and philosophy.

7th National Conference of Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA)

This segment extensively covers the 7th National Conference of FIRA, held on December 26th-27th, 2009, in Chennai. The conference was attended by representatives from over 70 affiliated rationalist associations.

Key speakers and their addresses:

• Dr K Veeramani, Patron of Tamil Nadu Rationalists' Forum, inaugurated the conference, emphasizing the importance of scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry, noting their infrequent practice even by government servants.
• Prof Narendra Nayak, President of FIRA, delivered the presidential address, remembering the late B. Premanand and highlighting FIRA's aim to promote rationalism, secularism, and a scientific outlook. He criticized the use of media to propagate superstitions and condemned the government of Karnataka for supporting individuals like Ravishankar.
• Mr GVK Aasaan discussed the misuse of the word 'communal' and the instigation of violence by upper castes, condemning the demolition of Babri Masjid and the post-Godhra genocide of Muslims.
• Ms. A Arulmozhi criticized the propagation of religious stories and the concept of untouchability.
• Mr RG Rao insisted on respecting humanism and developing scientific temper.
• Mr Vidya Bhushan Rawat suggested translating Periyar's ideals into multiple languages to combat religious fanaticism.
• Mr BS Barnala noted that religious heads propagate superstitions and rationalists need to increase their propaganda efforts.
• Mr Prince Ennares Periyar and Mr TV Manoj discussed the uncooperative role of media in combating fundamentalism and communalism.
• Dr. RT Sabapathy Mohan, Vice-Chancellor of Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, delivered the valedictory address, stating that Periyar's Self-respect Movement had made Tamil Nadu a land of rationalist and humanist outlook.

Screenings: A short film "Thira" portraying the cruelty done to Muslim women by Hindutva elements and a documentary on B. Premanand were screened.

Resolutions: The General Body of FIRA passed several resolutions, including demands for:

1. A bill for the separation of religion from politics, judiciary, education, and administration.
2. Steps to eradicate superstitions and evil customs.
3. Implementation of a Uniform Civil Code.
4. Measures against terrorism and illegal arms import.
5. Stopping religious subsidies (Hajj, Temple, Madrasa Pension).
6. Making registration of all marriages compulsory.
7. Abolishing religious symbols and cults in public places.
8. Undertaking measures to help internally displaced Tamils in Sri Lanka.
9. Educating the next generation to get rid of superstitions and pseudoscience.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critique of organized religion, particularly Hinduism, from a rationalist and secular perspective. The magazine strongly advocates for scientific temper, humanism, and critical thinking, contrasting these with superstition, religious dogma, and caste-based discrimination. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of secularism, social justice, and the eradication of religious influence from public life and governance. The Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA) and its activities are prominently featured, underscoring the magazine's commitment to promoting rationalist ideals.

Title: Indian Skeptic
Issue Date: January 2010
Publisher: Indian Skeptic
Country: India
Language: English

This issue of the Indian Skeptic focuses on rationalist activities and principles of skeptical thinking. It covers a national conference, a book launch, and provides guidance on critical evaluation.

Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA) National Conference

The magazine prominently features the Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA) National Conference, which took place on December 26-27, 2009, at Periyar Thidal in Chennai. Photographs show the event and the newly elected office bearers of FIRA. The conference aimed to promote rationalist thought and activities.

Release of "God Delusion" Tamil Translation

A significant event highlighted is the release of the Tamil translation of Richard Dawkins' influential book, "The God Delusion." This event, noted as a "Rationalist Forum, Chennai" initiative, took place on December 27, 2000, though the cover date of the magazine is January 2010, suggesting this event may have been a past event being referenced or a typo in the date on the cover image.

Tools for Skeptical Thinking by Carl Sagan

An extract from Carl Sagan's renowned essay, "The Fine Art of Baloney Detection," is presented under the title "Tools for Skeptical Thinking." This section encapsulates key tenets of skeptical thinking, emphasizing the importance of:

• Independent Confirmation: Seeking verifiable evidence for claims.
• Substantive Debate: Encouraging knowledgeable proponents of all viewpoints to engage in discussion.
• Avoiding Argument from Authority: Recognizing that authorities can err and distinguishing between authorities and experts.
• Multiple Working Hypotheses: Developing and testing several alternative explanations for phenomena.
• Objectivity: Not becoming overly attached to one's own hypotheses and being willing to find reasons for rejecting them.
• Quantification: Using measurable data to discriminate between hypotheses.
• Logical Consistency: Ensuring every link in a chain of argument is valid.
• Occam's Razor: Preferring the simpler explanation when faced with multiple hypotheses that equally explain the data.
• Falsifiability: Ensuring that hypotheses can, in principle, be tested and potentially disproven.

The article stresses that propositions that are untestable or unfalsifiable have limited value and that scientific reasoning should be open to scrutiny and replication.

Bangalore Vicharavadi Sangha

The Bangalore Vicharavadi Sangha, also known as the Bangalore Rationalist Association, is featured for its ongoing activities. The association conducts monthly lectures and discussions on various topics. Contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, is provided for Dr. M.N. Keshava Rao, A.S. Nataraj, and BVV Subba Rao for those interested in attending their programs.

Philosophical Quote

The issue includes a profound quote attributed to Buddha, emphasizing the importance of critical examination and personal verification of beliefs, rather than accepting them based on tradition, imagination, or authority. The quote encourages adherence to doctrines that are conducive to the good, benefit, and welfare of all beings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are rationalism, skepticism, critical thinking, and the promotion of scientific inquiry. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning, logical analysis, and the debunking of pseudoscience and unfounded beliefs. The magazine serves as a platform for disseminating rationalist ideas and encouraging a skeptical approach to knowledge and claims.