Indian Skeptic - 2011 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of Indian Skeptic, identified as No. 02/03 and dated March 2011, is an e-magazine focused on promoting skepticism, rationalism, and scientific inquiry. The cover prominently features Professor Narendra Nayak, highlighting his 60th birthday celebrations, alongside other key articles concerning the Gujarat Carnage, the Makara Jyothi event, and a book review.

Editor's Note and Publication Details

The magazine is edited and published by Manoj Trichambaram. It is distributed free of charge, with the stated aim of being useful to its recipients and fostering a scientific temper, humanism, and a spirit of inquiry and reform in India. The views expressed in the articles are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Indian Skeptic. Readers are advised to use Adobe Reader 8.0 or later versions for optimal viewing.

Featured Articles

Gujarat Carnage - Modi and SIT

This article by Ram Puniyani critically examines the report of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Supreme Court regarding the 2002 Gujarat Carnage. The author contests the media's portrayal of the SIT giving a 'clean chit' to Modi, arguing that this narrative was manufactured and served to gladden communal forces. Puniyani highlights that despite numerous Citizens' Inquiry Committee reports and a People's Tribunal concluding the carnage was state-sponsored, the popular perception remained favorable towards Modi. The article references the Bannerjee Commission's findings that the Godhra tragedy was not pre-planned by Muslims, yet media propaganda created an image of aggressive Muslims. The author points out the SIT report's findings that the Gujarat Government had destroyed wireless communication records, that Modi displayed a discriminatory attitude, and that RSS-affiliated lawyers were appointed to sensitive riot cases. The article concludes by questioning how popular perceptions are modulated and how communal elements manipulate mass thinking, drawing parallels to Goebbels.

Atheist Eve: Argument from Arrogance

This section features a comic strip titled 'Atheist Eve' by Tracie Harris, which humorously explores the 'argument from arrogance' in discussions about atheism. The comic depicts a dialogue where atheists are accused of arrogance for claiming to know that God does not exist. The atheist character counters by explaining that their position is not based on knowing everything, but on a lack of evidence for God, and that many perceived mysteries have rational explanations. The comic also touches upon the complexity of the universe and the human eye, questioning whether these necessitate a divine creator.

Prof Narendra Nayak Turns 60

This article, attributed to 'Bangalore Skeptic', celebrates the 60th birthday of Professor Narendra Nayak. The event, held on February 5th, 2011, at the Rotary Balbhavan auditorium in Mangalore, was attended by relatives, friends, colleagues from Kasturba Medical College, trade union activists, journalists, and political figures, including Sri Yogish Bhat, the Deputy Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. The article recounts anecdotes from his wife, Asha Nayak, his brother-in-law, and former students, highlighting his career in biochemistry, his involvement in consumer rights activism, and his association with rationalist organizations. A notable detail is the banner displayed at the function proclaiming 'Completes 60 years without the help of any super natural powers', emphasizing Nayak's rationalist stance. The article also mentions Mr. U. Kalanathan of the Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA) speaking about Nayak's efforts in establishing the organization and spreading the message of rationalism, including addressing the 'fraud' of Makara Jyothi.

Makara Jyothi – Lies, and Damned Lies

This article, attributed to Manoj TV, appears to critically examine the Makara Jyothi event, suggesting it involves deception. While the full content is not detailed in the provided pages, its inclusion alongside articles on rationalism and skepticism indicates a critical, evidence-based approach to the phenomenon.

From the President of FIRA

This section features a message from Narendra Nayak, identified as the President of FIRA (Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations). The message likely discusses the organization's activities and its commitment to rationalism and scientific thinking.

Book Review: The Buddha - Our Companion, Philosopher, Guide

This review by Prabhakar Nanawaty discusses the book 'The Buddha - Our Companion, Philosopher, Guide'. The review is accompanied by an image of the book's cover. The article likely assesses the book's content from a skeptical or rationalist perspective.

Tools for Skeptical Thinking

This short piece, featuring an image of Carl Sagan, likely provides insights or methods for applying skeptical thinking, a core theme of the magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism, rationalism, humanism, and the critical examination of social and political events. The magazine consistently advocates for evidence-based reasoning and challenges beliefs rooted in superstition or unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance, as conveyed through the editor's note and the selection of articles, is firmly rooted in promoting scientific temper, critical thinking, and social reform, particularly within the Indian context. The magazine actively engages with contemporary issues, such as political events and religious phenomena, through a rationalist lens.

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated March 2011, features a prominent article titled "Makara Jyothi – Lies, and Damned Lies" by Manoj TV, which critically examines the religious phenomenon of Makara Jyothi at Sabarimala, India. The magazine also includes a report from Narendra Nayak, President of FIRA, detailing the activities of the Rationalist Club at Periyar Maniammai University.

Makara Jyothi – Lies, and Damned Lies

The central article by Manoj TV alleges that the Makara Jyothi, a significant event for pilgrims visiting the Sabarimala temple, is a "massive fraud" built over the years. The article posits that the "divine light" is not a miracle but a man-made spectacle created by officials who secretly burn camphor at Ponnambalamedu and use wet sacks to generate a twinkling effect. This practice, the author claims, has been ongoing for years, contributing to the temple's substantial revenue, which is stated to be 131.25 crores during the December 2010-January 2011 season alone.

The article criticizes the priests, the Devaswom Board, and the government for perpetuating this "fraud" and attempting to shield it from exposure, even in the face of a Kerala High Court order to reveal the truth. It points out that the media, particularly print media, initially remained silent about the alleged deception following a tragedy where 102 pilgrims died on January 14, 2011. However, after the High Court's directive, some newspapers, like Deccan Chronicle, began reporting on the issue.

Several conflicting statements from temple authorities and priests are highlighted. Kandararu Maheswararu Thantri, the traditional supreme priest, claims Makara Jyothi is a star and Makaravilakku is a fire lit by people, contradicting earlier myths. PRV Raja, President of Pandalam Palace Managing Committee, also dismisses the importance of Makarajyothi, suggesting it was coined recently to serve vested interests. Conversely, Kummanam Rajashekharan of Hindu Aikyavedi asserts that Makarajyothi and Ponnambalamedu are realities and part of religious belief, noting that the TDB constructed a platform there.

The article also delves into the historical origins of the 'Jyothi,' with claims that it was initially a tribal practice. PV Nalinakshan Nair, former Commissioner of TDB, states that the lighting of the Makarajyothi has a history of about 45 years, initially done by Malayar tribes, and later continued by officials. The article questions why the Devaswom Board has not debited the expenses for this lighting as Devaswom expenditure and suggests that the 'Jyothi' might be a signal to disperse the crowd.

Furthermore, the article raises concerns about the potential encroachment of the forestland at Ponnambalamedu by temple authorities under the guise of religious belief. It highlights that this area is part of the ecologically sensitive Periyar Tiger Reserve, identified as a critical tiger habitat. The author expresses alarm over the potential impact on the Shola forests, which are vital for biodiversity and water conservation.

Rationalist Club Activities at Periyar Maniammai University

In a separate section, Narendra Nayak reports on the activities of the Rationalist Club at Periyar Maniammai University. He expresses surprise that such a club exists and is active in a country where students are often preoccupied with communal and caste politics. The club organized a program on scientific temper, with the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ramachandran, supporting the initiative. Nayak delivered an inaugural speech, emphasizing the meaning of 'martyr' and highlighting Bhagat Singh as his ideal.

The program included training sessions on prevalent superstitions and unscientific systems of medicine. Nayak describes how participants, initially reluctant, gradually became interactive. The plan was to encourage them to examine their mindsets and motivate them to correct public attitudes. Some trainees were already working in the field, and one had been trained by Nayak previously.

As part of the program, interactions were held with the public in a suburb of Tanjavur and at a street corner meeting. The trainees also visited a village school in Manjipatti for a program aimed at children aged 10 and above. The response was enthusiastic, with children being encouraged to question everything and reject beliefs in ghosts, demons, and black magic.

Nayak also recounts an interaction where he demonstrated his 'science' of astro-numero-palmistry, with a parent admitting that the demonstration opened his eyes to the truth at the age of 46.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes rationalism, skepticism, and scientific temper. It challenges religious dogma, exposes alleged frauds, and advocates for critical thinking. The editorial stance is clearly against superstition and blind faith, emphasizing the importance of truth and evidence-based reasoning. The article on Makara Jyothi exemplifies this by dissecting a widely accepted religious event and presenting a critical, investigative perspective. The report on the rationalist club further reinforces this theme by showcasing efforts to promote scientific thinking among students and the public.

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated March 2011, is primarily dedicated to exploring themes of rationalism, skepticism, and critical thinking, with a significant focus on Buddhist philosophy and its relevance in contemporary society. The magazine features articles that encourage readers to question established beliefs, analyze information critically, and adopt a scientific approach to understanding the world.

Interaction with Students at Periyar Campus

The issue begins with an account of an interaction with students from higher primary schools in Vallam and at the Periyar campus in Tiruchirappalli. This session, held shortly after a world atheist conference, aimed to engage students on topics such as rebirth, spirits, and black magic. The interaction was described as satisfying, with students showing enthusiasm and curiosity. The University Vice Chancellor was pleased with the response, leading to requests for similar workshops for other batches. The campus itself was noted for its emphasis on environmentally friendly technology, recycling, and the absence of religious idols or ceremonies, reflecting a rationalist ethos.

Review of 'Our Companion Philosopher Guide: The Buddha' by Narayan Desai

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to a review of Narayan Desai's book, 'Our Companion Philosopher Guide: The Buddha.' The review highlights Desai's perspective on Buddha's Dhamma as a foundation for civilized society, promoting humanism and a secular creed. The book is presented as having three core aspects: value education (self-control and ethics), social reform (moving beyond casteism), and the effort to overcome societal stagnation. The review delves into Buddha's teachings, his opposition to the caste system, and his emphasis on critical examination of truth rather than blind faith. It contrasts Buddhist thought with the prevailing social and religious conditions of Buddha's time, characterized by superstition, ritualism, and the exploitation of the masses by the priestly class.

Buddha's Philosophy and Social Reform

The review emphasizes that Buddha's philosophy advocated for enriching intellect, critical analysis, and understanding truth through examination. It critiques the traditional interpretations of Buddha's life and teachings, suggesting that many biographies are filled with astrological forecasts and romantic incidents that obscure the socio-political reasons behind his quest for truth. The author of the review points out that Buddha's quest for truth created a political dilemma, leading him to exile. The article also contrasts Buddha's emphasis on humanity and social equality with the Brahminical system, which enforced caste duties and was seen as exploitative. Buddha's teachings are presented as a revolt against the Vedic tradition, Brahmins, and Upanishads, advocating for a path of reason and individual morality.

Comparison with Greek Philosophers and Modern Thought

The review draws parallels between Buddha's ideas and those of Greek philosophers like Aristotle and Socrates, noting Buddha's opposition to slavery and his advocacy for democracy. It highlights Buddha's rejection of metaphysics and dogma, his focus on the law of causation, and his aim to build a social structure ensuring the welfare of all people. The issue also contrasts Buddhist thinking with modern trends like mechanical materialism, ultra-individualism, and consumerism. The Buddha's philosophy is seen as having the potential to guide personal life, promote a healthy mind, and establish the source of morality, while rejecting faith in supernatural phenomena, chants, and black magic.

Tools for Skeptical Thinking by Carl Sagan

Another key section features an excerpt from Carl Sagan's essay, 'The Fine Art of Baloney Detection,' outlining essential principles of skeptical thinking. These principles include the necessity of independent confirmation of facts, encouraging substantive debate, recognizing that authorities can err, and the importance of spinning multiple hypotheses. Sagan advises against becoming overly attached to one's own hypotheses and advocates for quantifying observations, ensuring logical consistency in arguments, applying Occam's Razor (choosing the simpler explanation), and ensuring that hypotheses are falsifiable. The article stresses that skepticism requires the ability to check assertions and for others to replicate experiments.

Skeptic News and Other Contributions

The magazine also includes a 'Skeptic News' section, detailing activities of rationalist associations in Bangalore and Karnataka, such as monthly lectures and district-level meetings. Contact information for these organizations is provided. Additionally, the issue features a quote from Andre Compte-Sponville on the possibility of God not existing, and a quote from Samir Amin regarding Buddha's approach to morality and knowledge, emphasizing self-reliance over revelation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are rationalism, skepticism, critical thinking, and the scientific method. The editorial stance clearly promotes a worldview based on evidence, logic, and empirical verification, actively challenging superstition, dogma, and blind faith. The magazine advocates for social reform and the application of reason to personal and societal issues, drawing inspiration from philosophical traditions like Buddhism and the principles of scientific inquiry championed by figures like Carl Sagan.