Indian Skeptic - 2010 09

Magazine Overview

Title: INDIAN SKEPTIC
Issue: No. 01/09
Date: September 2010
Publisher: Indian Skeptic (Editor & Publisher: Manoj Trichambaram)

This issue of the Indian Skeptic, an e-magazine distributed free of charge, focuses on critical examination of various societal and scientific topics. The editorial stance, as stated on page 2, is that the views expressed in the articles are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Indian Skeptic. The magazine requires Adobe Reader for proper viewing and can be contacted via email at [email protected].

Featured Articles

Alternative Medicine Author: Narendra Nayak Pages: 4-8

Narendra Nayak critically analyzes the concept of 'alternative medicine,' distinguishing it from the recognized evidence-based scientific system (allopathy). He categorizes systems like Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy under 'recognized but not evidence-based,' while terms like electrohomeopathy, reiki, pranic healing, aromatherapy, music therapy, and gem therapy fall under the broader 'alternative medicine' umbrella, which he identifies as a hunting ground for quacks. Nayak explains the origin of 'allopathy' as a term coined to differentiate from homeopathy, which he describes as involving 'sugar pills and tinctures' with minimal active ingredients. He argues that scientific medicine, unlike alternative systems, is based on evidence, self-correction, and peer review, and evolves with new findings. He criticizes alternative therapies for being based on unsubstantiated hypotheses, pseudo-scientific assumptions, and unsupported claims, often sold at exorbitant prices. Nayak points out that many countries have strict laws against such practices, with penalties including imprisonment, yet in India, peddlers of these dubious concoctions often evade regulation through loopholes in consumer protection and drug acts. He highlights a 2004 Supreme Court judgment that found many such systems to have no scientific basis. The article questions the legitimacy of alternative therapies, noting their reliance on advertisements, TV programs, and endorsements from unqualified individuals. It concludes that 80% of patients with self-limiting disorders would recover regardless of treatment, and that in emergencies, people turn to qualified specialists, not alternative therapists. The article strongly advocates for evidence-based scientific medicine, stating, "To hell with the alternative treatments!"

Colour of Terror: Saffron, Green or Black? Author: Ram Puniyani Pages: 9-10

Ram Puniyani examines the labeling of terrorism, particularly in the context of a statement by P. Chidambaram regarding 'saffron terrorism.' The article discusses the strong reactions from Hindutva parties like the BJP and Shiv Sena, with some disowning the term and demanding apologies. Puniyani traces the origin of the term 'Saffron Terror' and 'Hindu terror' to events following the Malegaon blast in September 2008, which involved individuals associated with groups like Abhinav Bharat and Sanatan Prabhat. He mentions the role of Hemant Karkre, Chief of Maharashtra Anti Terrorism Squad, in uncovering the conspiracy, and his subsequent death during the Mumbai terror attacks of 26/11/2008. The article notes that the term 'Jihadi Terrorism' and 'Saffron Terrorism' are misnomers, as 'Jihad' means striving for betterment, not killing. It explains that 'Hindutva,' a political ideology coined by Savarkar, uses the identity of the Hindu religion and aims for a 'Hindu Nation.' The article contrasts the Indian tricolor with the saffron flag insisted upon by the RSS, stating that saffron, traditionally representing renunciation, was usurped for political goals opposed to the Indian National Movement's goals of a plural, secular democratic India. It suggests that the Muslim League's green flag and the Hindu Mahasabha's saffron flag represented political currents from a time when democracy and human rights were absent.

Atheist Eve Author: Tracie Harris Page: 12

This is a short piece, likely a personal reflection or opinion piece, given the title and author.

Faith vs. Universal Compassion Author: P L Rao Page: 13

This article likely explores the relationship and potential conflicts between religious faith and the concept of universal compassion, possibly from a skeptical or humanist perspective.

From the President of FIRA Author: Narendra Nayak Page: 17

This section features a message or statement from the President of FIRA, likely Narendra Nayak, given his authorship of another article in the issue.

Book Review: Superstition: Belief in the Age of Science Author: Prabhakar Nanawaty Page: 20

This review discusses the book 'Superstition: Belief in the Age of Science,' likely examining the prevalence of superstitions in contemporary society and their relationship with scientific understanding.

Book Review: The Truth about The Gita Author: Kavneet Singh Page: 26

This review focuses on a book titled 'The Truth about The Gita,' suggesting a critical or analytical examination of the Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Indian Skeptic revolve around skepticism towards unscientific claims, particularly in the realm of alternative medicine, and a critical examination of political and religious ideologies, as seen in the discussion on terrorism. The magazine strongly advocates for scientific temper, evidence-based reasoning, and rational inquiry, aligning with the constitutional ideals of India. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific methodology and critical thinking, urging readers to question unsubstantiated claims and to rely on verifiable facts and established scientific principles. The magazine also touches upon the importance of humanism and reform, as highlighted by the quote from the Constitution of India.

This issue of Indian Skeptic from September 2010 features a variety of articles focusing on rationalism, secularism, and the critique of religious and pseudoscientific beliefs. The magazine includes a prominent article on the political use of religious symbols, a comic strip, philosophical discussions on faith, and a review of a book that distinguishes pseudoscience from science.

Political Use of Religious Symbols

The lead article discusses the blatant use of religious imagery and symbols for political goals in India. It highlights how groups like the RSS and VHP have used the saffron flag and other religious symbols extensively in their mobilization campaigns, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. The article notes the assertion by some sadhus that Hindu holy books have primacy over the Indian legal system and Constitution. The VHP's stance that the decisions of saffron-clad Sadhus are more important than Indian courts is also mentioned. The term 'Saffronization of education' is discussed in the context of communalizing the school curriculum. The article criticizes the association of a holy color like saffron with a political ideology and notes that this trend is a continuation of the popular association of the word 'saffron' with Hindutva-RSS politics. It suggests that in the current global political climate, religion is often used as a veneer for political goals, citing the 'Clash of Civilizations' rhetoric and the demonization of Islam and Muslims, contributing to Islamophobia. The author calls for opposing the use of religious symbols, colors, and terminologies for political purposes.

Atheist Eve Comic Strip

'Atheist Eve', a comic strip by Tracie Harris, presents a humorous dialogue between two characters discussing supernatural television programs. One character finds shows about channeling ancient warriors and alien abductions riotous, while the other insists that an exorcism they watched was real. The conflict arises when one character accuses the other of mocking personal beliefs, calling them a 'dick' for laughing at what others sincerely believe.

Faith vs Universal Compassion (Part - I)

Authored by P L Rao, this article begins by recounting an incident in a temple where a speaker's discourse on divinity and ethics was interrupted by a practical announcement about a car blocking passage, leading to a rush to secure footwear. This anecdote illustrates the chasm between noble ideals and daily practice. The article defines faith as a unique faculty that prompts proper decisions and unites energies, serving as a mental bond that develops after deep examination. It distinguishes true faith from momentary or sentimental feelings, warning against believing on insufficient evidence or suppressing doubt. The author quotes Milton, suggesting that believing without knowing reason makes truth a heresy, and Coleridge, who states that prioritizing Christianity over Truth leads to prioritizing one's sect over Christianity, and ultimately, oneself. The article posits that a faith ingrained in childhood, if later questioned, leads individuals to push away doubts and avoid challenging company, resulting in a loss of self-confidence and a need for external crutches. True faith, derived from deep self-introspection, is presented as universally applicable. The article also touches upon worldly examples and the concept of a 'Power' that is without form and quality, which cannot be experienced by the physical brain. It discusses figures like Meerabai, Kabir, Thyagaraja, Ramakrishna, and Prophet Mohammed, suggesting their claims of intimacy with divinity might stem from intense meditation and a form of trance or delusion. Swami Vivekananda is presented as a rationalist who, while not highly impressed by Ramakrishna's 'communion' with Goddess, led the Ramakrishna Mission towards humanism and intellectual inquiry.

The article further explores the idea that faith is often a tool used by society and priestly communities to control the common man, despite its futility. It questions the belief in an Almighty managing micro-level creation and suggests that human intelligence is the primary tool for managing the world. The author points out that many worldly events remain incomprehensible, questioning divine justice in the face of tragedies. The article asserts that a Power without form and quality cannot be experienced by the physical brain, and questions why people entrust their destiny to such an enigma. It notes that figures like Kabir and Meera did not 'see' God in a literal sense. Swami Vivekananda is highlighted as a rationalist who redirected the Ramakrishna Mission's focus from the metaphysical to humanism and intellectual inquiry.

Is Faith Accumulation of Knowledge?

This section questions whether faith is merely an accumulation of knowledge from religious texts. It suggests that while reciting scriptures or words like 'Rama' or 'Shiva' might be seen as elevating, the words 'Holy', 'Sacred', and 'Bliss' are just terms. The article argues that accumulating knowledge, whether physical or metaphysical, enhances ego. In the context of modern science and technology, keeping abreast of developments is challenging. Similarly, in the metaphysical field, accumulation of knowledge for spirituality can become a fad. True wisdom, it suggests, lies in denying knowledge in the transcendental field to ignite constant awareness and inquiry.

History of Growth of Faith

This article examines the history of faith across various religions. It notes that Hinduism, born around 2000 BC, was a blend of nature worship and ritualistic practices, appeasing various powers through sacrifices. Buddhism and Jainism, originating around the 6th century BC, preached humanism without emphasis on faith or miracles, which were later incorporated by devotees. The article states that Hinduism, revived by Shankara, focused on searching for Truth and individual salvation. It mentions that Asoka's declaration of Buddhism as State religion led to its spread. Christianity, born in the first century CE in Europe, became a state religion in the 4th century CE, later splitting into Catholics and Protestants. Islam, founded by Prophet Mohammed, spread rapidly and is described as having a 'forcibly convert or kill' approach towards non-believers. The article concludes that the concept of faith towards the Almighty at an individual level has not held significant meaning throughout history.

From the President of FIRA

Narendra Nayak, President of FIRA, reports on the organization's efforts to concentrate on Karnataka for a change. Despite his initial impression that organizing would be easy, he found it challenging. Meetings were held in Bangalore in October 2009 to establish a state-level organization, involving members of FIRA's executive committee and the Bangalore Vichravadi Sangha. A meeting in March 2010 was attended by about 100 people, but representation from northern parts of the state was limited, leading to a decision to hold another meeting a year later. District-level meetings were conducted in Dharwar, Hassan, Mandya, Mysore, and Kodagu, with the formation of district committees to build networks. Nayak observes a rise in intolerance everywhere, affecting what people eat, dress, speak, or think, and notes that intolerance is a part of all religions. He cites an incident in Kerala where a college teacher's hands were chopped off for using the name of Mohammad in a dialogue, questioning the premise of such an extreme reaction.

Nayak also shares anecdotes from his interactions, including a discussion about a 'Lakshmi Kavach' advertised on TV, where a child astutely pointed out that wealth was brought to the sellers. He also recounts a trainee asking about his belief in mantras, leading to a revelation that his marriage did not involve mantra chanting, which left the trainee flabbergasted. He mentions a student asking about the 'makara vilakku' light at Shabarimala, which he explained as a heap of camphor lit by electricity board employees, an event previously exposed as man-made. He notes that activists who questioned such 'miracles' have been implicated in cases filed by Hindutva groups for hurting 'religious sentiments', aimed at harassing rationalists and weakening their movement. He interprets these reactions as a sign that their movement is having an impact.

Mistaking Pseudoscience for Science

This section reviews Robert L. Park's book, 'Superstition: Belief in the Age of Science'. Park, a professor of Physics, argues that science is the only reliable method for understanding the world. The book explores why people persist in superstitious beliefs despite scientific evidence to the contrary, examining supernatural beliefs, religion, the afterlife, New Age spiritualism, and faith-based medical claims. Park discusses parapsychology, homeopathy, and acupuncture, questioning the existence of souls, intelligent design, and the power of prayer, and challenging the concept of heaven. The article notes that while India has a history of illiterates propagating superstitions, the Western world now sees 'scientists' spreading New Age superstitions, influencing even the educated. The book aims to unveil the mask of these bogus scientists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Indian Skeptic revolve around the critical examination of faith, religion, and superstition from a rationalist and secular perspective. The magazine consistently challenges the politicization of religion, the blind acceptance of beliefs without evidence, and the spread of pseudoscience. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of reason, scientific inquiry, and universal compassion, advocating for a separation of religious symbols and terminology from political discourse. The issue highlights the importance of critical thinking and intellectual honesty in understanding the world and combating what it perceives as exploitative or irrational practices.

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated September 2010, presents a collection of critical articles examining various phenomena through a skeptical and rational lens. The magazine's core stance is to challenge unsubstantiated beliefs, superstitions, and pseudoscientific claims, advocating for empirical evidence and scientific reasoning.

Convergence of Science & Religion

The issue features an article by Robert L. Park that critiques the Templeton Foundation's efforts to bridge science and religion. Park argues that the foundation, despite its large sums of money, incites 'borderline scientists' whose goals, such as understanding the 'purpose of the universe,' are rooted in fanaticism rather than scientific inquiry. He notes that many prize winners are from religious backgrounds, and the foundation's policy has shifted to awarding scientists who align with its aims. Park suggests that the convergence of science and religion is an attempt to legitimize faith-based ideas under a scientific guise, ultimately misleading the public.

Intelligent Design

Another section delves into the controversy surrounding 'Intelligent Design' (ID), particularly its promotion in American media and calls for it to be taught in science classes alongside evolution. The article highlights that while scientists overwhelmingly accept Darwinian evolution, ID is presented as a way to circumvent constitutional restrictions on religious teachings in schools. The strategy of ID proponents, as outlined by authors like Johnson, is to focus on perceived 'gaps' in evolution and 'teach the controversy' rather than presenting scientific facts. The author questions why superstitions persist despite clear evidence to the contrary, also noting other beliefs like mass prayers, DNA as soul, and scientific explanations for afterlife as superstitions.

Futility of Prayers

Robert L. Park's commentary on the futility of prayers is presented, questioning the confidence people place in them. He uses the 9/11 terrorist attacks as an example, where both sides prayed for victory. President George W. Bush's proclamation of a National Day of Prayer is mentioned. The article offers a scientific explanation for the effects of prayer on the hypothalamus, suggesting it numbs the senses and enters a 'Prozac World.' Dr. Herbert Benson, head of the Mind Body Medical Institute, is cited as a supporter of prayer who concocts scientific theories to explain its effects.

DNA as Soul

The article discusses the opposition to stem cell research in the US, attributing it not to ethical concerns but to lobbying by religious groups who believe life begins at conception and is defined by the existence of a soul. The concept of a soul is linked to eternal life, reincarnation, and other phenomena. The author warns against trusting anecdotal evidence, emphasizing the need for scientific testing and verification. The article also touches on near-death experiences (NDEs), suggesting they are misperceptions of the brain trying to reconcile sensory inputs. The advancement in constructing DNA using off-the-shelf chemicals is presented as evidence that the concept of a divine spark or vital life force is becoming meaningless, with life being reducible to chemistry.

Punishment by God

This section discusses how natural calamities, such as tsunamis, are often classified as acts of God, absolving humans of responsibility. Religions, it is argued, treat these events as tests from God, punishing sufferers for past sins, regardless of their age, sex, or condition.

New Age Mysticism

Deepak Chopra and Bhagwan Rajneesh are mentioned as figures who avoid direct competition with conventional religions, instead appealing to gullible people. New Age practices are described as encompassing spiritualism, reincarnation, channeling, holistic healing, astrology, and more. The article suggests that New Age movements rely on the public's unfamiliarity with quantum physics, using terms like 'quantum non locality' and 'entanglement' without relevance. The author questions the scientific basis of these claims, noting that even Schrödinger himself ridiculed the idea that observation creates reality. The article concludes that science has its own superstitions, reminding readers to question the observer's consciousness in scientific interpretations.

Alternate Medicines

The article critically examines homeopathic medicine, questioning its efficacy and the claims of its practitioners. It notes that while founder Samual Hahnemann might be forgiven for his beliefs in an era before germ theory, his modern followers, aware of scientific principles, still promote it. The author points out that alternate medicines often omit costly clinical trials and that healing is more than just eliminating pathogens; it also involves belief. The article suggests that alternate medicines may relieve pain but do not cure the disease. The rise of complementary and alternate medicines (CAM) is also discussed as a political issue in the US, linked to hobnobbing with China. The author hopes FMRI technology will shed light on the placebo effect, which is attributed to endorphins and prostaglandins.

The Truth About The Gita

This section reviews V. R. Narla's book, 'The Truth About The Gita: A Closer Look at Hindu Scripture.' Narla, described as a rationalist and humanist, critically examines the Bhagvad Gita. The review highlights Narla's assertion that it is impossible to determine the historical context or authenticity of the events described in Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The article criticizes the handling of the Gita with 'kid gloves' and the reluctance of scholars to critically examine it for fear of backlash from followers. It suggests that educated Indians lead the charge in claiming Hindu texts as 'true,' bordering on imbecility. The review points out that Hindu religious texts are often obscene and lack value for human betterment. The confusion between history and mythology in ancient Indian texts is noted, with Brahmins accused of mythologizing history. The article also questions the validity of dates and the concept of 'yug' in Hindu texts, suggesting that modern man's existence is far shorter than the millennia implied.

Chapters on Krishna

The review of Narla's book continues with a critical examination of Krishna. The article questions the historicity of the Kurukshetra War and the Mahabharata, suggesting that the epic is a heavily padded fairytale created by Brahmins to enslave the native population. It posits that Krishna was elevated from a folk hero to a deity over time, with significant editing by Brahmins to benefit the priestly class. The Bhagvad Gita is singled out for its exhortation to kill as a caste duty, and Krishna's 'brainwashing' of Arjuna is described as making him a 'killing machine without a conscience.'

Further chapters analyze Krishna's character, questioning his role as a statesman and a god. The article points out the multiplicity of Krishnas in puranic texts, describing him as a 'world class sex manic' and a 'devious politician.' His actions, such as the abduction of Rukhmini and the acquisition of 16,000 women, are highlighted, along with the excessive drinking and sexual activity of the Yadavas. The article quotes historian Sitanath Tattavabhushan, who states that if the accounts of Krishna are true, he could not have been an incarnation of God. The chapter 'Who Wrote the Gita?' questions Krishna's claim that studying his dialogue leads to heaven, suggesting it is a manipulative tactic. The article also notes Krishna's alleged assassination of his uncle Kamsa and his ability to escape retribution due to Brahmin editors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Indian Skeptic consistently promotes a rationalist and skeptical viewpoint. Recurring themes include the critique of religious dogma, the exposure of superstitions disguised as science or tradition, and the questioning of historical and mythological narratives. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific evidence, critical thinking, and the rejection of anecdotal claims. The editorial stance is clearly against blind faith and in favor of empirical verification, viewing many widely accepted beliefs as relics of ancient superstitions that continue to influence modern society. The magazine aims to debunk pseudoscience and challenge established religious and cultural narratives that lack a solid foundation in reason.

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated September 2010, features a critical examination of the Bhagavad Gita, an extract on skeptical thinking by Carl Sagan, and reports on rationalist association meetings in India.

The Gita: A Critical Examination

The articles delve into the Bhagavad Gita with a highly critical perspective. The author questions the traditional attribution of the Gita to Krishna, stating emphatically that the answer is 'no.' The text suggests that the entire Mahabharata and the Puranas were written by numerous authors over extended periods, edited to suit their economic and social standing. The dating of the Gita is also contested; while the Hindu establishment claims a timeframe between 800-200 B.C., the evidence points towards the 3rd century A.D., indicating it is post-Buddha.

The Gita is described as not being a Veda or Vedanga, with its scriptural authority being a late acquisition. It is suggested that Sankaracharya, in the 12th century, brought the Gita out of obscurity to promote sectarian and caste interests and counter the rise of Buddhism. The text is characterized as having 'elasticity and double speak,' making it ambiguous and difficult to find clear ethical spirituality within. The author points out that the Gita, despite emphasizing non-killing (ahimsa), is presented as an incentive to war. The article also touches upon the concept of plagiarism, suggesting the Gita is a 'shining honor' in this regard, with its ideas lifted verbatim from the Upanishads.

Chapter 13 – Gita as Scripture

This section reiterates the critique, stating the Gita's scriptural authority is a late acquisition. It mentions S.A. Belwalkar's observation that the Gita attained its 'dominant position' during the last twelve hundred years. The text is presented as a tool used by Sankaracharya to promote sectarian interests and blunt the rise of Buddhism. The article notes that the first English translation appeared in 1785 by Charles Wilkins, promoted by Governor-General Warren Hastings, and a French rendering followed in 1787.

Chapter 14 - Has the Gita a Philosophy?

This chapter questions the philosophical basis of the Gita, defining 'darshana' as the synonym for philosophy in India. It argues that original philosophy cannot arise from blind faith or without critical thinking. The Gita's content is described as evasive, primitive, retrograde, regressive, immoral, and unbelievably unethical. It is characterized as a poem or a collection of songs rather than a work of theological philosophy. The article highlights the contradiction between the Gita's emphasis on non-killing and its role as an incentive to war. It concludes that the Gita is a riddle hidden in an enigma, with its contradictions making it difficult to interpret.

Tools for Skeptical Thinking by Carl Sagan

This section features an extract from Carl Sagan's essay, 'The Fine Art of Baloney Detection,' which encapsulates the basic tenets of Skeptical Thinking. Key principles outlined include:

• Independent Confirmation: Wherever possible, seek independent confirmation of facts.
• Substantive Debate: Encourage debate on evidence by knowledgeable proponents of all viewpoints.
• Arguments from Authority: Recognize that authorities have made mistakes and will do so again; experts are not infallible.
• Multiple Hypotheses: Spin more than one hypothesis and devise tests to systematically disprove alternatives. The hypothesis that survives disproof has a better chance of being correct.
• Objectivity: Do not get overly attached to one's own hypothesis; compare it fairly with alternatives and seek reasons for rejection.
• Quantification: Use numerical quantities to discriminate among competing hypotheses, as vague and qualitative statements are open to many explanations.
• Logical Chain: Ensure every link in a chain of argument works, including the premise.
• Occam's Razor: When faced with two hypotheses that explain data equally well, choose the simpler one.
• Falsifiability: Always ask whether a hypothesis can be, at least in principle, falsified. Untestable propositions are not valuable.

Skeptic News

This section reports on the district-level meetings of the Karnataka State Federation of Rationalist Associations (KSFRA) held in August 2010. Meetings took place in Dharward, Hassan, Coorg, Mandya, and Mysore. The primary objectives discussed were strengthening the rationalist movement, fighting superstition and religious bigotry, and forming ad-hoc committees to oversee activities. Prof. Narendra Nayak was a prominent speaker at several of these meetings, explaining the movement's aims. The reports indicate good participation from various sections of society, including a significant number of youths.

Bangalore Vicharavadi Sangha

A notice for the Bangalore Vicharavadi Sangha (Bangalore Rationalist Association) announces monthly lectures and discussions on various topics. Contact details for Dr. M.N. Keshava Rao and A.S. Nataraj are provided.

Buddha's Quote

A page features a quote attributed to Buddha, emphasizing the importance of critical examination and personal verification of doctrines over blind belief, tradition, or respect for teachers. The quote encourages clinging to doctrines that are conducive to good, benefit, and the welfare of all beings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism, rationalism, and a critical approach to religious texts and beliefs. The magazine consistently questions established doctrines and promotes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and evidence-based reasoning. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of secularism, anti-superstition, and the rationalist movement, as evidenced by the reports on KSFRA meetings and the critical analysis of religious scriptures like the Gita. The inclusion of Carl Sagan's principles further reinforces the magazine's commitment to rigorous intellectual standards and the debunking of pseudoscience and unfounded beliefs.