Indian Skeptic - 2010 10

Magazine Overview

Title: INDIAN SKEPTIC
Issue: No. 01/10
Date: October 2010
Publisher: Manoj Trichambaram

This issue of Indian Skeptic, an e-magazine mailed free, focuses on promoting scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform in India. The editorial stance emphasizes that the views expressed are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Indian Skeptic.

Featured Articles

A Landmark Judgement on Scientific Temper

This article by Ramesh Nagaragere details a significant judgement by Justice HN Nagamohan Das of the High Court of Karnataka on September 13, 2010. The judgement quashed a non-bailable warrant against Mr Hulikal Nataraj, who had been accused of hurting Hindu sentiments by explaining the dubious nature of religious phenomena like Makara Vilakku and the 'miracle' of water springing from the river Kaveri. The article praises the judgement as a landmark decision, comparable to those of Justice V R Krishna Iyer, which emboldens the fight against obscurantism and superstition. The judgement is noted for its extensive intellectual effort, reading like a treatise on rationalism and scientific temper. It also references the constitutional obligation of every citizen to uphold scientific temper and a spirit of inquiry. The case originated from a complaint filed by an activist of Bhajarangadal after Mr Nataraj's explanation at a program in Madikeri. The article highlights that the importance of Section 51A(h) of the Indian Constitution, concerning fundamental duties, was overlooked by the initial police and judicial officers.

The judgement is divided into five parts, with three focusing on the issue at hand. It discusses freedom of speech, superstitions, and fundamental duties, tracing the growth of the spirit of inquiry. The judge cites various legal precedents and quotes Justice Frankfurter. The article also notes that the judge's decision was grounded in rationalism, progressive thinking, and commitment to the Indian Constitution. The author contrasts this judgement with a previous one from the Rajasthan High Court against Bhanvari Devi in 1994, which acquitted accused rapists based on caste. The article concludes that the victory of Mr Nataraj is a victory for scientific thinking and rationalism over irrationalism and fascism.

Swearing by God

Narendra Nayak recounts his personal experiences as an atheist navigating the Indian legal system, which often requires witnesses to swear on religious texts or by God. He describes instances where he refused to take oaths in the name of God, opting for solemn affirmations instead. This led to confrontations, including being accused of contempt of court, though his appeals were eventually upheld. The article details his experiences in marriage registration, a consumer activism case in Delhi, and a trial involving sexual exploitation. A significant portion is dedicated to a cross-examination where the defense lawyer repeatedly tried to establish that the witness was an atheist and had not sworn in the name of God, despite the judge's attempts to move the proceedings forward. The author also touches upon the hypocrisy of those who demand respect for their religious sentiments while disregarding the hurt caused to non-believers.

Atheist Eve

This section features a comic strip titled 'Atheist Eve' by Tracie Harris. The comic presents a dialogue between 'Bible_Boy' and 'Atheist_E' debating the merits of religious belief. 'Bible_Boy' uses fear of eternal torture in hell as a primary argument for believing in God, while 'Atheist_E' questions the logic, the fear-based motivation, and the possibility of choosing the 'wrong' god. The comic concludes with 'Atheist_E' sarcastically acknowledging 'Bible_Boy's' explanation about God's love, implying it's a superficial response to a fear-driven argument. Tracie Harris is identified as a graphic designer from Austin, Texas, whose work is influenced by her recovery from a fundamentalist upbringing.

Ayodhya Dispute Verdict

This article by Ram Puniyani discusses the Ayodhya Dispute Verdict. While the full details are not provided in the scanned pages, its inclusion in the table of contents suggests a critical examination of the legal and social implications of the verdict.

Faith vs Universal Compassion

Authored by PL Rao, this article likely explores the tension or relationship between religious faith and the broader concept of universal compassion, possibly arguing for the primacy of one over the other or seeking a synthesis.

From the President of FIRA

This section features a message from the President of FIRA (Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations), authored by Narendra Nayak. It likely outlines the organization's activities, goals, and stance on rationalism and scientific inquiry.

Book Review: Light Houses in the Dark Seas (Essays in Philosophy)

This book review by Prabhakar Nanawaty covers 'Light Houses in the Dark Seas (Essays in Philosophy)'. The review likely assesses the philosophical content and arguments presented in the book.

Book Review: The Truth About The Gita

Kavneet Singh reviews 'The Truth About The Gita', a book that offers a closer look at the Hindu scripture. The review likely analyzes the author's interpretation and critique of the Bhagavad Gita.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine consistently promotes rationalism, scientific temper, and critical thinking. It challenges religious dogma, superstition, and the imposition of religious beliefs on individuals, particularly within legal and public spheres. The publication advocates for freedom of speech and inquiry, even when it conflicts with deeply held religious sentiments. The recurring themes include the separation of church and state, the importance of secularism, and the defense of individual liberties against religious or societal pressures. The magazine also engages with contemporary social and political issues through a rationalist lens, as seen in the discussion of the Ayodhya dispute and the critique of religious practices.

The issue emphasizes the role of the judiciary in upholding these principles and protecting individuals who express rationalist viewpoints. The overall tone is critical of religious fundamentalism and supportive of secular, scientific, and humanist values.

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated October 2010, features a prominent article by Ram Puniyani titled "Ayodhya Dispute Verdict: Commit the Crime and be Rewarded." The magazine also includes articles by P L Rao, B. Premanand, Narendra Nayak, and Prabhakar Nanawaty, covering themes of religion, rationalism, and societal issues in India.

Ayodhya Dispute Verdict: Commit the Crime and be Rewarded by Ram Puniyani

Ram Puniyani's article critically analyzes the Allahabad High Court's verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, delivered on September 30, 2010. He notes the absence of violence, attributing it to the maturity of the population, but expresses concern over the verdict's nature. The judgment divided the land into three parts, allotting one to the Hindus, based on their belief that Lord Ram was born there. Puniyani argues that the verdict legitimizes the actions of the RSS combine, which he claims orchestrated the demolition of the Babri Mosque and the installation of idols, effectively validating 'criminal acts in the name of faith.' He contrasts this with the Muslim community's feeling of betrayal and questions the role of the judiciary in accepting religious beliefs as evidence, suggesting it undermines the rule of law and the Indian Constitution.

The article traces the history of the Ram Temple issue, initiated by the Sangh Parivar in the 1980s, and highlights how the worship of Lord Ram gained prominence in medieval times, particularly after Goswami Tulsi Das wrote the Ramayana in Awadhi. Puniyani criticizes the communal historiography introduced by the British, which he believes sowed seeds of hatred and led to communal violence. He points out the government's failure to remove illegally installed idols and protect the mosque from the RSS attack in 1992.

Puniyani asserts that for the RSS, issues like the Ram Temple, Ram Setu, and cow slaughter bans are primary to their identity politics, overshadowing basic needs like bread and shelter. He describes the situation as a 'catch 22' where faith, systematically constructed by a political stream, is becoming the basis of law. He quotes filmmaker Anand Patwardhan calling the verdict 'Victory of Hindu Sharia: A sad day for India.' The author appeals to the younger generation to move beyond identity politics and focus on human justice.

He further discusses the concept of negotiated settlement, emphasizing the need for justice and the implementation of reports like the Sachar Committee and Rangnath Misra Committee to address the socio-economic disparities faced by the Muslim community. He questions whether the guilty of past communal violence will be punished and whether the state can be trusted to protect its citizens.

Faith vs Universal Compassion - Part II by P L Rao

P L Rao's article examines the post-independence scenario in India, focusing on the interplay between religion and commerce. He notes that despite India adopting a secular constitution, religious influences and caste factors continue to impact administration. Rao observes a rising power and commercial influence of religious institutions like temples, mutts, churches, and mosques, as well as NGOs and 'Babas.' He criticizes politicians for unashamedly seeking votes from religious leaders and points out the alarming accumulation of wealth and real estate by caste-based bodies.

Rao argues that every state decision is now made considering its impact on religion, and that religious leaders often speak on matters outside their domain. He laments that the country is divided by caste, with each group focused on its own sub-sect, relegating the basic issues of faith and relation with a 'Super Power' to the background. He uses examples from music and fine arts to illustrate how religious themes are now commercialized for mass appeal, losing their devotional touch.

The article highlights the trend of increased religious awareness among the diaspora, driven by affluence and nostalgia, but criticizes this awareness as lacking depth and seriousness. Rao points to instances like the Makara Vilakku at Sabari malai and Cauveri Udbhava as examples of how society and governments highjack religious institutions for their gains.

Rao also discusses the 'flourishing field of religion' as a means of earning money, fame, and power, with scandals often accompanying religious figures. He notes that institutions survive due to political patronage, and that people are often swayed by 'miracles' like producing scented ash or gold rings, and by faith healing.

He introduces B. Premanand and Prof Narendra Nayak as individuals who have spent decades exposing the tricks of 'godmen.' Premanand, who passed away in October 2009, established a hospital for the poor and advised people against being cheated by Babas. Prof Nayak now leads the Rationalist Movement in India. Both challenged miracle mongers to demonstrate their feats under fraud-proof conditions, but found no takers.

Rao contrasts this with a class of Gurus and Matajis who cater to CEOs and top officials, using luxurious settings to mesmerize their followers. He suggests that stripped of commerce, faith would crumble, and that faith today is propped up by commerce, leading to fundamentalism and religious strife.

The article concludes by advocating for a shift in focus from divinity to concern for all animate and inanimate beings in the ecosystem, emphasizing the need to change common people's outlook and develop universal compassion.

Action Plan

This section offers practical steps for individuals to live a more meaningful life and contribute to society. It encourages re-scripting one's faith to encompass all species, focusing on rendering lasting help to the needy, and adopting a holistic approach. It advises against expecting anything from others and emphasizes living sincerely, using best judgment, and inquiring before acting. The section also suggests preparing a declaration for donating vital organs and advising against wasteful religious rituals after death.

It references W. K. Clifford's "The Ethics of Belief and Other Essays" and "The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda" by Advaita Ashram, Mayavathi Memorial edition, 1972, noting inspiration from J. Krishnamurthy.

From the President of FIRA: Allahabad High Court Judgement on Babri Masjid Dispute by Narendra Nayak

Narendra Nayak, President of FIRA, expresses concern over the declining scientific temper in India, exemplified by the Allahabad High Court's judgment on the Babri Masjid dispute. He criticizes the judges for deciding that Rama was born at a specific spot, suggesting they accepted belief as evidence and went beyond judicial considerations. Nayak highlights the representation of non-existent gods by human beings and the granting of disputed property to the self-appointed guardians of the temple. He notes the court's conclusion that Rama was a historical figure born at that place and calls for the rationalist movement to counter this dangerous trend.

FIRA's executive committee decided not to implead as a party in the Supreme Court case due to limited resources, leaving the matter for the Supreme Court to decide. Nayak also mentions another judgment that brings cheer: the quashing of a FIR against Hulikal Natraj for stating that the Makara Vilakku at Shabarimalai was a man-made phenomenon. He criticizes the police and Home Secretary for their actions in this case.

Nayak also recounts an incident where he was asked about the river Kaveri springing out at Talakaveri, and how his response led to a campaign against him. He reports on successful interactions with students at Mysore University and other colleges, aiming to promote rational thinking and establish organizations to foster this movement.

Rationalism: A Way of Life by Prabhakar Nanawaty

This section reviews the book "Lighthouses in the Dark Seas" by D.D. Bandiste, authored by Prabhakar Nanawaty. Bandiste, a retired professor of philosophy, was formerly associated with the RSS but became an ardent rationalist after his Ph.D. thesis on Bertrand Russell. The book explores various aspects of rationalism, including its definition, its connection to Socrates and Buddha, and its role as a rational alternative to religion.

Nanawaty explains that rationalism is based on the reasoning faculty and, unlike in the 17th and 18th centuries, now accepts empiricism as its foundation. The review highlights the book's attempt to shed light on topics like 'What exactly is Rationalism,' 'Socrates: the Polestar of Rationalism,' 'Buddha: the SuperRationalist,' and 'Outline of Rational Ethics.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critique of religious fundamentalism, the politicization of faith, and the erosion of scientific temper in India. The magazine strongly advocates for rationalism, secularism, and universal compassion as antidotes to communalism and superstition. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and the upholding of constitutional values, opposing the manipulation of faith for political gain and the commercialization of religion.

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated October 2010, features a critical examination of rationalism, religion, and philosophical concepts, with a significant focus on a deconstruction of the Bhagavad Gita. The cover highlights "The Truth About The Gita" by Kavneet Singh, suggesting a deep dive into the scripture's ethical and social implications.

Rationalism and its Objections

The issue begins by exploring the nature of rationalism, positing that it is always closer to facts and stresses the importance of keeping an open mind, free from emotions and superstitions. Rationality is described as a function of a living, active brain, present to varying degrees in all beings. The author acknowledges that human rationality is often weak and inefficient, prone to errors. Rationalism is presented not as a dogma but as a philosophy concerned with the welfare of fellow beings, advocating for the wise and selective handling of psychological states, contrasting with religion's call to suppress emotions. The article discusses objections to rationalism, including its acceptance of empiricism (which is seen as evolving towards truth) and the absence of scope for mysticism. It notes that while rationalism rejects religion, it does not necessarily reject religious morality.

Philosophical Figures and Concepts

Socrates

Socrates is presented as a martyr for keeping reasoning alive, who taught people to question established beliefs. His questioning nature made him a threat to the establishment, but his spirit is deemed immortal and a guiding principle in philosophy and rationalism.

Buddha

Buddha is praised as a person, rationalist, and philosopher with a scientific outlook, though essentially a saint. Unlike typical saints, Buddha did not believe in God and proposed a social construction based on rational and moral outlook, identifying ignorance and moral depravity as the root of social evil. He rejected metaphysical quests, the concept of soul, nihilism, and transmigration, advocating for a life based on enlightenment and compassion for social reconstruction.

Concept of Soul

The concept of soul is explored as a primitive need to explain agency in movement and the desire to overcome death. The author argues that the concept of soul is only found where living bodies exist and questions why we don't speak solely in terms of biological factors.

Meaningful Life vs. Successful Life

A distinction is made between a meaningful life and a successful life. Success is seen as an indication of ability to achieve and mobilize resources, but it can be noble or mean. A meaningful life, however, implies a desirable, commendable, and admirable existence, to be lived on Earth and shaped by human hands, without any notion of becoming superhuman or God.

Free Society and Rational Ethics

The concept of a "free society" is questioned, with the author emphasizing that social order and restrictions are necessary for civilization and culture to thrive. The individual is considered the real unit of action, and society a construct. Human beings should be liberated from mental slavery to achieve their rational potential. Rational ethics are outlined with principles like naturalism replacing supernaturalism, facts replacing scriptures, realism replacing fantasy, and activism replacing fatalism, aiming to create a harmonious and progressive society.

The Gita: A Critical Analysis

The latter part of the magazine is dedicated to a scathing critique of the Bhagavad Gita, presented as a continuation from a previous issue.

Ethics of the Gita

The article argues that the Gita's ethical system, particularly in ancient India, failed to develop due to the rigid caste system. It questions how a scripture that encourages killing kinsmen for a kingdom can promote world peace, labeling Krishna as an unethical and violent figure akin to a modern terrorist. The Gita's aim is contrasted with the ethical concern for "the greatest happiness of the greatest number," arguing it promotes strife over peace.

The Caste System and Krishna

A significant portion of the critique focuses on the Gita's alleged role in perpetuating the caste system. The author asserts that Krishna created the caste system, which is based on racial lines and offers no social mobility, calling it the "apartheid of the Brahmin kind." The commentary suggests the caste system is presented as god-made and sacrosanct. The article questions how an all-knowing god would devise such an unjust system. It highlights verses that suggest even sinful individuals can attain the Supreme Goal by uttering Krishna's name, which is seen as an "Oscar award for sheer insolence" and a justification for ethnic cleansing and genocides.

Violence and Immorality

The Gita is described as promoting extreme violence and justifying it as a "caste duty." It is characterized as Machiavellian and Nietzschean. The critique extends to the idea that the Gita can be cited to justify mass murder and genocide, with the modern Brahmin elite allegedly using it with impunity. The Gita is deemed a "non-ethical work" and a "tragedy for India and the world," labeled as the "Art of Slave Making."

Krishna's Nature and Legacy

Krishna is portrayed as a mundane tribal leader whose historical records are scarce, with references to "Herakles" being unsubstantiated. The article dismisses the vast body of literature on Krishna as a "baseless rehash of a myth." It contrasts Krishna's actions with Buddha's efforts to promote equality, stating Krishna created a "first class con" to keep people in servitude. The Gita is called the "Bible of Bondage," and the author hopes it will be discarded by Hindus.

Science and the Gita

The article touches upon the Gita and science, suggesting that "sciencefiction" has been incorporated into the text, referencing flying chariots and other fantastical elements found in the Mahabharata.

The Gita as a Warning

The Gita is presented as a grim warning to followers to adhere to the caste system or face "hellfire." It is suggested that the text was rewritten to co-opt other deities and suppress movements like Buddhism and Jainism. The primary aim of the Gita, according to this critique, is to ensure the caste system remains rigid.

Book Reviews and Letters

The issue includes a review of "Lighthouses In The Dark Seas (Essays in Rationalism)" by Dr. D. D. Bandiste, published by Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti. The editor of "Thought & Action" ezine, Prabhakar Nanawaty, is also mentioned. A quote from Michael Bakunin on the rejection of theology and the importance of liberty and human dignity is featured. A letter from S.G. Nagaraj from Bangalore criticizes an article on "Ayodhya...Verdict" for being prejudiced and calls for a truth commission. Dr. Ram Puniyani replies, clarifying that the intent is to unravel history from faith and disjunct faith from politics to foster rational thought.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for rationalism, critical thinking, and empirical evidence, consistently contrasting these with religious dogma, superstition, and blind faith. The editorial stance is clearly anti-religious, particularly critical of the Bhagavad Gita and its perceived role in perpetuating social inequalities like the caste system and justifying violence. There is a strong emphasis on human welfare, individual liberation from mental conditioning, and the pursuit of a meaningful life based on reason and ethics. The magazine appears to champion a secular, scientific, and rational worldview, actively challenging traditional beliefs and scriptures.

Title: Indian Skeptic
Issue Date: October 2010
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the Indian Skeptic focuses on the principles of skeptical thinking and provides information on rationalist associations in India.

Tools for Skeptical Thinking by Carl Sagan

This section features an extract from Carl Sagan's essay, 'The Fine Art of Baloney Detection,' which is presented as a guide to skeptical thinking. The article outlines several key tenets:

• Independent Confirmation: Wherever possible, there must be independent confirmation of the 'facts.'
• Substantive Debate: Encourage substantive debate on the evidence by knowledgeable proponents of all points of view.
• Questioning Authority: Arguments from authority carry little weight, as 'authorities' have made mistakes in the past and will do so again. In science, there are no absolute authorities, only experts.
• Multiple Hypotheses: When explaining something, think of all possible ways it could be explained. Then, devise tests to systematically disprove each alternative. The hypothesis that survives this 'Darwinian selection' has a better chance of being correct.
• Detachment from Hypothesis: Do not get overly attached to a hypothesis simply because it is yours. It is a way station in the pursuit of knowledge. Actively seek reasons to reject your own ideas and compare them fairly with alternatives.
• Quantification: If a phenomenon can be measured numerically, it becomes easier to discriminate between competing hypotheses. Vague and qualitative descriptions are open to multiple interpretations.
• Chain of Argument: Every link in a chain of argument must be valid, including the premise.
• Occam's Razor: When faced with two hypotheses that explain the data equally well, choose the simpler one.
• Falsifiability: Always ask whether a hypothesis can be, at least in principle, falsified. Untestable or unfalsifiable propositions are not valuable, as assertions must be checkable. Skeptics should be able to follow the reasoning and duplicate experiments.

Organizational Information

Bangalore Vicharavadi Sangha

The Bangalore Vicharavadi Sangha (Bangalore Rationalist Association) conducts monthly lectures and discussions on various topics. Those interested in attending these programs are encouraged to contact:

• Dr. M.N. Keshava Rao (Phone: 26690269, Email: [email protected])
• A.S. Nataraj (Phone: 26696553, Email: [email protected])

Karnataka State Federation of Rationalist Associations (KSFRA)

District-level meetings of the Karnataka State Federation of Rationalist Associations are being convened across the state. Individuals interested in joining the organization are requested to contact the State Convener of KSFRA:

• BVV Subba Rao (Phone: 09886679088, Email: [email protected])

Quote from Buddha

A prominent quote attributed to Buddha is featured on page 33:

"Believe nothing
Merely because you have been told it
Or because it is traditional
Or because you yourself have imagined it
Do not believe what your teacher tells you
merely out of respect for the teacher
But whatever, after due examination and
analysis
You find to be conducive to the good,
the benefit,
The welfare of all beings
that doctrine believe and cling to
and take it as your guide."

This quote underscores the importance of personal critical evaluation and empirical evidence over blind faith or tradition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for rationalism, skepticism, and critical thinking. The editorial stance appears to promote scientific inquiry, evidence-based reasoning, and the questioning of unsubstantiated claims. The inclusion of Carl Sagan's principles and the quote from Buddha reinforce a commitment to intellectual rigor and independent thought. The organizational announcements suggest an active rationalist community in India, particularly in Karnataka.