NIVFO-Bulletin - 1989 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of NIVFO Bulletin, dated 3/1989 and in its 9th year of publication, is published by the Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information (NIVFO) in collaboration with the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICOP), USA. The cover prominently features the title 'NIVFO bulletin' and highlights a range of topics including 'Quasi-medicine's Psychopathology,' 'Vedic Astronomy,' 'The Occult Solution,' 'Parapsychology, Christianity and Occultism,' an interview with Danny Korem from the USA, the 'Scientology Scandal in Denmark,' 'The Speech That Was Never Given,' 'UFO News,' and 'Norwegian Press Censorship.' The issue's price is listed as 95 Norwegian Kroner.

Kvasimedisinens Psykopatologi (Quasi-Medicine's Psychopathology)

This extensive article, authored by Karl Sabbagh, explores the phenomenon of quasi-medicine and why people believe in its effectiveness. Sabbagh argues that quasi-medicine often mimics the characteristics of the paranormal, appealing to a desire to believe. He posits that the perceived success of these therapies is not due to their inherent efficacy but rather to complex psychological factors, the natural fluctuations of illness, and the placebo effect. The article critically examines how practitioners can create the illusion of success, referencing Emil J. Freireich's 'Freireich Experimental Plan.' This plan suggests that by strategically timing treatments to coincide with natural periods of improvement or stabilization in a patient's condition, and by manipulating perceived outcomes, practitioners can claim credit for recovery. Sabbagh illustrates this with examples of how even negative outcomes can be spun as evidence of the treatment's necessity or effectiveness. He also discusses how vague symptoms and conditions, often referred to as 'non-diseases,' are given names and treated by quasi-medical practitioners, further reinforcing belief. The article highlights the lack of scientific rigor in quasi-medical fields, where different practitioners often have conflicting theories about how the body works. A key concept introduced is the 'sperrehakeeffekten' (ratchet effect), explaining how people's beliefs are reinforced by confirming evidence and are resistant to contradictory information, much like a mechanical ratchet that only moves forward.

Sabbagh also addresses the potential dangers of quasi-medicine, particularly when it leads individuals to abandon conventional medical treatments. He provides two tragic examples: a child with leukemia who died after parents opted for homeopathic treatment instead of chemotherapy, and a woman with highly contagious miliary tuberculosis who refused hospital treatment. The article concludes by questioning the ethical implications of allowing such practices to continue, even if they are often harmless, given the potential for real harm.

Other Articles and Sections

Innstilling nr. 120 fra Sosialkomiteen om helsepolitikken mot år 2000 (Resolution No. 120 from the Social Committee on Health Policy towards the Year 2000)

This section discusses the increasing presence and public perception of alternative medicine in Norway. The committee acknowledges that many people find these treatments valuable and that some receive help. However, it also points out the need for a review of the place of alternative medicine within the overall healthcare system. The committee references ongoing investigations in Sweden and requests that the results of that work be considered.

Kvasimedisin (Quasi-Medicine)

This section presents a series of short reports on various alternative health products and their reported side effects. These include:

• Nytt fra Statens Legemiddelkontroll (News from the State Medicines Control Authority): This report highlights concerns about side effects from commonly used natural medicines. It notes that an upcoming WHO meeting will focus on natural medicine. It specifically mentions that many herbal teas contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage.
• Sou Tsian Te: This tea is linked to several reported adverse reactions, including gallbladder attacks, fever, pain, dark urine, and liver damage. Reports from Sweden indicate similar issues.
• Ginseng - Muskelskade? (Ginseng - Muscle Damage?): A French study suggested improved running times after ginseng use, but Swedish researchers disputed the findings. The report warns that ginseng may cause muscle damage from prolonged intensive exercise and lists other potential side effects such as pain, amenorrhea, hypertension, edema, diarrhea, rash, sleep disturbances, nervousness, euphoria, depression, and cramps.
• Nattlysolje - Epileptiske anfall (Evening Primrose Oil - Epileptic Seizures): While not definitively proven, there are indications that evening primrose oil, rich in essential fatty acids, might be linked to epileptic seizures in predisposed individuals.
• Ecomer Haileverolje (Ecomer Shark Liver Oil): Reports to the Swedish Socialstyrelsen include suspected side effects such as pulmonary embolism (one fatal), toxicodermia, and granulocytopenia.
• Propolis Allergi (Propolis Allergy): Propolis, a resin from bees, can cause allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to Peru balsam. Its use is discouraged due to its sensitizing properties and lack of proven therapeutic benefits.

The section also includes a call for reports on complications suspected to be related to natural medicine use, emphasizing the importance of considering that patients may be using these products alongside prescribed medications.

Broder Joe Fengslet i California (Brother Joe Imprisoned in California)

This brief mention likely refers to a specific case or individual related to alternative practices or beliefs that led to legal trouble.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, particularly in the realm of quasi-medicine and alternative health practices. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, aiming to debunk unsubstantiated claims and highlight the potential dangers of unproven therapies. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific evidence and rational inquiry, as evidenced by its collaboration with CSICOP and its focus on exposing the psychological and social factors that contribute to belief in the paranormal and pseudoscientific phenomena. The inclusion of topics like Scientology scandals and press censorship also suggests a broader interest in issues of truth, deception, and the manipulation of information.

This issue of the magazine, titled "VEDISK ASTRONOMI" (Vedic Astronomy), delves into various topics related to alternative beliefs, skepticism, and unexplained phenomena. The content appears to be primarily in Norwegian, with a critical stance towards certain pseudoscientific claims while also exploring aspects of occultism and parapsychology.

Vedic Astronomy Critiqued

The lead article, "VEDISK ASTRONOMI," expresses surprise at the growing respect for Vedic literature in the West. The author questions the infallibility of Vedic knowledge, particularly its astronomical claims. According to the text, Vedic astronomy posits that the Earth is stationary at the center of the solar system, with the sun orbiting it at a distance of 1,280,000 km. The sun is described as half the size of the moon and located between the Earth and the moon. The sun is the only self-luminous celestial body, while stars are non-luminous and reflect sunlight. The article also mentions specific distances to other planets and celestial bodies according to Vedic texts, and the concept of a planet-demon named 'Rahu' causing eclipses. The author concludes that these astronomical claims are flawed and that Vedic knowledge originates from speculative humans rather than an omniscient source. The article suggests that if the material knowledge in Veda is unreliable, then the spiritual knowledge cannot be trusted either.

Media Criticism: Aftenposten and Pseudoscience

Another section, "SENSUR" (Censorship), criticizes the media's practice of promoting pseudoscientific claims as established facts, with short, factual notices being rare. The article cites an example of Aftenposten publishing a front-page story about Candida, which was later corrected by five Norwegian doctors, but the correction was allegedly suppressed. The author quotes Aftenposten's defense of its right to report on phenomena that challenge established knowledge, stating it is a right and a duty of a free press. The section also discusses a reader's letter sent to Aftenposten that was critical of occultism and was rejected, as reported in another publication, Dag og Tid.

The 'Domsten Case': A UFO Encounter

A detailed account is given of the "DOMSTEN-SAKEN" (The Domsten Case), described as one of the most famous 'close encounter of the third kind' events in the Western world. The incident occurred on December 19, 1958, when two friends, Stig Rydberg and Hans Gustafsson, encountered a disc-shaped object with three grey legs and four strange, grey, amoeba-like beings. The beings reportedly attacked them, and a buzzing sound was heard. The men eventually escaped and fled. The article notes that the case has been widely reported and often considered 'solid' and unexplained, with military, police, and scientific interest. A report by Anders Liljegren and Clas Svahn from the Archive for UFO Research in Norrköping is mentioned, which concludes that the case is a fabrication.

The Occult Solution: A Critical Review

"DEN OKKULTE LØSNING" (The Occult Solution) is a review of a book by Karl Milton Hartveit. The review discusses the rise of modern occultism, which it links to the idea of universal evolution and the concept of a spiritual elite. The book is criticized for its uncritical acceptance of figures like Helena Petrovna Blavatsky and Rudolf Steiner, whose ideas are presented as variants of occult synthesis. The reviewer argues that Blavatsky's claims about contacting Tibetan masters are unsubstantiated and that her work is largely fictional. Similarly, Steiner's 'clairvoyance' is questioned. The review also criticizes Hartveit's treatment of figures like Gurdjieff and Subud, and his acceptance of Carlos Castaneda's books as factual, despite evidence that they are fictional. The reviewer suggests that Hartveit's work, while flawed, might still serve as a provocation for readers to consider the implications of occultism and parapsychology.

Parapsychology, Christianity, and Occultism

Another article, "PARAPSYKOLOGI, KRISTENDOM OG OKKULTISME" (Parapsychology, Christianity, and Occultism) by K. E. Steffens, discusses the relationship between Christianity, occultism, and parapsychology. It notes that Kapellan Jan Bygstad has written about "New Age and Christian faith," rejecting occultism. The author argues that a literal reading of the Bible can lead to a rejection of parapsychology, but that paranormal abilities are actually mentioned in the Bible. The article suggests that parapsychological research could strengthen the credibility of the Bible by demonstrating that the mind and spirit are not merely byproducts of material organization. It also points out that occultism poses a danger to parapsychology and that there is a need for critical investigation into the boundary between parapsychology and occult/New Age movements.

Skepticism and Conferences

The issue also includes information about a Nordic Skeptics' Seminar in Helsingfors, organized by SKEPSIS, featuring prominent skeptics like Susan Blackmore, Robert Morris, Andrew McKensie, Geoffrey Dean, and James Randi. Additionally, a conference on Near-Death Experiences (NDO) is mentioned, organized in Florø, Norway, with limited representation from Norwegian university scientists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of alternative belief systems, particularly Vedic astronomy and occultism, contrasted with scientific inquiry. There is a strong emphasis on skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a critique of media practices that promote pseudoscience. The magazine appears to advocate for a rational and evidence-based approach, while acknowledging the complex questions surrounding consciousness, spirituality, and the human search for meaning. The editorial stance is clearly critical of what it perceives as unfounded or pseudoscientific claims, while also engaging with the broader cultural and philosophical implications of these topics.

This issue of SOS Norge, titled 'Scientology - Fraud Under Religious Cover' by John Einar Sandvann, is a critical exposé of the Church of Scientology, particularly its activities in Norway and Denmark. The magazine highlights the organization's alleged deceptive practices, financial exploitation, and the negative impact it has on individuals and their families. It features personal testimonies, reports on legal investigations, and an interview with a prominent skeptic.

Scientology in Norway

The article begins by presenting the plight of families affected by Scientology. One father faces financial burdens due to his son's involvement, while another woman's marriage has been destroyed by her husband's financial losses to the sect. SOS Norge (Scientology Victims Support Association) is introduced as an organization offering support to these families, though they feel they are struggling against a powerful and manipulative organization.

Scientology is described as an authoritarian movement that hides its abuses under the guise of religious freedom. The organization is noted for being investigated by police and convicted in several countries. It is also accused of hiring detective agencies and launching smear campaigns against its opponents. In Denmark, Scientologists were reportedly arrested for espionage against theologian Johs. Aagaard.

Individuals in Norway who have spoken out against Scientology have allegedly faced threats and lies. One woman from Trondheim received a letter from Scientologists implying she would be shot if she didn't pay her alleged debts.

Scientology's Origins and Practices

The magazine traces the origins of Scientology back to L. Ron Hubbard's 1950 book on Dianetics. Hubbard later rebranded Dianetics as a religion, which the article suggests was primarily for economic benefits, such as tax exemptions, and to make criticism more difficult. The Norwegian newspaper Vårt Land is quoted as stating that Scientology is no more a religion than a cooperative society.

Scientology's activities are described as primarily focused on extracting money from its members. The 'Church of Scientology's' application to be registered as a religious community in Norway was withdrawn before it could be processed.

Personal Accounts of Scientology

Frode Jacobsen, who joined Scientology at 19, recounts his experience working for the sect for a meager wage. After a year, he left with a debt of 330,000 Norwegian Kroner, accumulated from 'worthless courses'. He describes himself as having been 'brainwashed' and felt guilt for 'betraying' the organization. He explains that Scientologists are taught that their religion is persecuted worldwide, leading to a sense of paranoia. Frode is now suing Scientology to recover the money he paid.

Scientology is characterized as a blend of personality development theories and science fiction, incorporating Eastern philosophy and elements from other religions. Scientologists believe most mental problems stem from subconscious memories, which can be resolved by bringing them to consciousness. They also believe in reincarnation and claim to remember past lives stretching back millions of years. Former members report a harsh internal discipline where any sign of disagreement is suppressed, with members sometimes sent to 're-education' courses in Copenhagen for doubting the doctrine.

Scientology in Trondheim

In the summer of 1988, Scientologists attempted to establish a presence in Trondheim, leading to significant media attention. They rented a space with a display window advertising a book on Dianetics and an upcoming lecture. An article in Arbeider-Avisa reported that Scientologists were using hypnosis to recruit members, citing an instance where a 19-year-old was hypnotized to recall childhood experiences. Subsequently, the Scientologists were evicted from their rented premises due to public pressure from concerned citizens.

Letters to Norwegian Churches

The organization SOS Norge sent letters to 1421 church congregations in Norway requesting donations for their work. The Tunsberg Diocese Council expressed support for SOS Norge and suggested that the Church Council should address the issue and advise church employees to monitor such movements.

Skepticism and Pseudoscience

An editorial questions the focus on pseudoreligion and wonders what would happen if Ron Hubbard had continued to call Dianetics 'science' instead of 'religion'.

CENAP Joins CSICOP

The German organization CENAP, which focuses on UFO phenomena, has joined forces with GWUP, a German CSICOP group. This merger is seen as beneficial for UFO research and skepticism.

Scientology Scandal in Denmark

An article details a scandal in Denmark where police information from secret EDB registers allegedly leaked to a private detective agency in Copenhagen. This led to a corruption investigation against a police officer suspected of providing information from police registers to the agency. The agency was reportedly hired by Scientology to spy on Professor Johannes Aagaard and Chief Physician Fini Schulsinger. During a police raid on the detective agency, a list of 'freelance collaborators' was found, including the suspected police officer. The investigation also revealed that two amateur detectives, including a firefighter, had been hired to spy for Scientology and obtain keys to a hospital psychiatric ward.

Interview with Danny Korem

An interview with investigative journalist and magician Danny Korem explores his approach to skepticism and the paranormal. Korem, known for his TV programs and books, investigates alleged paranormal phenomena. He explains that his interest began as a magician, questioning the nature of psychic abilities.

Korem notes that belief in the paranormal is increasing, often correlating with technological advancements or threats of war. He attributes this to societal factors, such as the breakdown of families, which leads people to seek control and answers in paranormal beliefs. He criticizes the 'New Age' movement as a repackaging of old ideas.

Regarding skepticism, Korem emphasizes the need for compassion, not just facts, to effectively communicate with the public. He believes that skeptics should be seen as discerning rather than dismissive. He shares an anecdote where he exposed a top astrologer, highlighting how easily people can be misled by claims of psychic abilities.

Korem discusses the challenges faced by skeptics in getting their message out, particularly to children. He advocates for encouraging curiosity and critical thinking from a young age. He also expresses frustration with publishers who are hesitant to publish skeptical material, fearing backlash from religious or pseudoscientific groups.

He notes that while many paranormal claims are indeed hoaxes, some individuals genuinely believe they possess such abilities. Korem is concerned about the consolidation of the publishing industry, making it difficult for smaller, independent voices to be heard.

Jehovah's Witnesses and the 'Ozone Hole'

An account describes how Jehovah's Witnesses are allegedly using the 'ozone hole' issue to promote doomsday prophecies and fear-mongering. The article points out that there is no actual 'ozone hole' and that NASA's findings were misrepresented or not widely publicized in Norway.

UFOs and Abductions

The magazine features a section on sensational headlines from an American tabloid, including a mention of Professor Leo Sprinkle, a UFOlogist who claims to have been abducted by aliens as a child. Sprinkle is presented as an authority on UFOs, though the article notes the discrepancy in his abduction claim occurring before the widely recognized 'discovery' of UFOs in 1947.

Broder Joe Case

Another case highlighted is that of 'Broder Joe' (Jose Bugarin), a self-proclaimed miracle healer who operated in California. Rocky Mountain Skeptics were involved in exposing his fraudulent practices, which included performing 'operations' with his bare hands. Broder Joe was convicted of quackery and sentenced to nine months in prison.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exposure of Scientology as a deceptive and harmful organization, the importance of critical thinking and skepticism in combating pseudoscience and fraud, and the challenges faced by those who seek to reveal such truths. The editorial stance is clearly anti-Scientology and pro-skepticism, advocating for informed public discourse and protection against manipulation and exploitation.