NIVFO-Bulletin - 1991 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of NIVFO Bulletin, dated 3/1991 and in its 11th year, is published by the Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Enlightenment (NIVFO). The cover prominently features a striking aerial photograph of two complex crop circles, posing the question of whether they are natural phenomena or messages from an extraterrestrial intelligence. The main headline highlights the captivating nature of these 'pictograms' and announces an exclusive report on 'Kornsirklene' (Crop Circles).

Contents and Contributors

The issue lists numerous contributors to the CSICOP (Committee for Skeptical Inquiry) and NIVFO, including academics, scientists, and writers. The table of contents reveals a focus on crop circles, with articles titled 'Kornsirkler' (Crop Circles), 'Er avtrykkene i kornåkrene et naturfenomen?' (Are the imprints in the grain fields a natural phenomenon?), and 'Striden mellom James Randi og Uri Geller' (The dispute between James Randi and Uri Geller). Other topics include 'Ansiktet på planeten Mars' (The Face on Mars), 'Healing', 'Stjerner og kråketær' (Stars and Crow's Feet), and 'Om alternativ medisin i Nederland' (On Alternative Medicine in the Netherlands).

'Korn-Sircler!' (Crop Circles!)

This extensive article, authored by Vince Migliore, delves into the phenomenon of crop circles, or 'pictograms,' which have become a significant topic of interest worldwide. The author notes the extensive coverage in books, media, and UFO journals, suggesting that for some, crop circles have become a livelihood and a new myth is being born. The article presents two main categories of theories: natural and mystical.

Natural Theories

One leading hypothesis within the natural category, proposed by Terence Meaden of TORRO, suggests that wind currents manipulated by surrounding hills create whirlwinds and ionized plasma that form the patterns. While studies on atmospheric turbulence exist, critics argue that the complexity and precision of crop circles rule out natural causes.

Mystical Theories and Evidence

George Wingfield and John Haddington, researchers in the field, visited California in April 1991 to present their findings. They dismiss plasma theories, stating that only the most stubborn skeptics cling to them. They list several 'astonishing findings' associated with genuine crop circles:

1. Unbroken Stalks: The stalks are bent but not broken, remaining undamaged.
2. Faint Markings: Some imprints are only subtly marked, making them difficult to replicate.
3. Fine Structures: The flattened corn exhibits sharp edges and sometimes multiple layers oriented in different directions.
4. Elliptical Shapes: Many formations are elliptical, whereas hoaxers would likely create simple circles.
5. Concentric Rings: Narrow rings, sometimes only a few inches wide, surround the circles. These are impossible to see from ground level without disturbing the corn.
6. 'Kardesk' Circles: Numerous small circles are associated with the main patterns.
7. Global Phenomenon: Crop circles are found worldwide.
8. Large Pictograms: Some formations are hundreds of feet long.
9. Witness Accounts: Eyewitnesses describe circles appearing as if an invisible force pressed the corn down.
10. High Number of Formations: Over 1,000 formations were reported in England alone in 1990.

Wingfield and Haddington also discuss the debunked 'Operation Blackbird' hoax and mention that the orientation of pictograms often aligns with 'ley lines,' invisible energy lines theorized to crisscross the landscape.

They recount an anecdote where a farmer, intending to catch hoaxers, did not spray his field, yet a large pictogram still appeared. This illustrates the perplexing nature of the phenomenon.

Alternative Explanations and Connections

The article explores various alternative hypotheses, including magnetic anomalies, seismic causes, sound waves, electromagnetic radiation, cosmic radiation, connections to prehistoric stone circles, and chemical reactions in the soil. Even animals like pigs, hedgehogs, and birds have been mentioned.

Mysticism and Symbolism

The mystical perspective posits that crop circle patterns have symbolic meaning and are the result of an unknown intelligence. Witnesses often report a sense of information within these patterns. The article notes that the increasing number of formations in 1990 has led to expert investigation. Reports include unusual sounds, electronic malfunctions, and visual phenomena like blue and red flashes, and translucent orange spheres.

Wingfield and Haddington's work is compared to Jacques Vallée's 'Passport to Magonia,' linking crop circles to a long history of folklore and ancient narratives. In England, crop circles are increasingly connected to Celtic folklore, prehistoric stone circles, Neolithic religion, channeling, dowsing, and UFO phenomena.

Celtic Folklore: The belief in elves and their association with nature is mentioned, drawing parallels to reports of time travel and 'witch rings' in the ground. The 'Good People' (leprechauns, gnomes) are also referenced, with a story of a red-haired dwarf seen near a crop circle.

Symbolic Patterns: Early crop circles featured symbols like the 'quincunx' and the 'long cross,' which Wingfield and Haddington suggest indicate a 'spiritual connection.' The 'Celtic cross' is specifically mentioned, implying a link to ancient beliefs.

Stones and Stone Circles: Stonehenge is highlighted as a popular example of ceremonial stone circles. Many such monuments are found across the British Isles and Northern France, with a high concentration in southern England, the same region where crop circles are prevalent. These sites have historical and spiritual significance.

Silbury Hill: This pyramid-shaped formation, estimated to be at least 2600 years old, has a rich history of religious and mythical significance. Over 40 formations have reportedly appeared near this monument.

Religion and Symbolism: Beyond the Celtic cross, other religious symbols have been observed in crop circles, including a 'swastika' (predating Hitler, symbolizing 'the total universe') and 'manual' figures (two circles connected by a shaft), which are linked to the Hindu 'Vajra' (symbolizing the unbreakable).

Channeling: The article discusses channeling as a tool for understanding crop circles. Wingfield and other researchers have used channelers who claim the circles are made by 'The Shining Ones,' angelic beings who built Silbury Hill and are returning to aid humanity's transition. Another theory suggests crop circles are a result of the collective human consciousness, as proposed by C.G. Jung.

Psychic Predictions: Some psychics have claimed success in predicting the appearance of new crop circles, though with varying degrees of accuracy.

Ley Lines and Dowsing

Ley lines, invisible energy lines, are frequently mentioned in crop circle literature, with dowsing (using a divining rod) being a method to detect them. Stonehenge and other ancient structures are said to have strong ley lines. Haddington suggests these lines form a global network, connecting to concepts like Gaia (the living Earth) and Ceres (the goddess of grain). Some dowsers claim to measure a force extending several feet into the air above crop circle patterns.

Recent Events and Global Manifestations

Crop circles are now appearing in other countries, seen by some as a manifestation of a global spiritual shift, linked to events like the fall of the Berlin Wall and the rise of the environmental movement. The article also briefly mentions the reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje, Yugoslavia, and the appearance of holes in the ground in Switzerland, suggesting potential connections to the crop circle phenomenon.

UFOs and Crop Circles

Many researchers believe UFOs and crop circles originate from the same source or intelligence. Eyewitness accounts of glowing orbs, flashes of light, and spheres in crop fields are cited. One account describes a man being paralyzed in a field and receiving a message from beings claiming to be from another dimension. Wingfield and Haddington recount a vigil where a group heard a high-pitched whistling sound and observed strange lights.

Another witness, Ron Jones, reported being transported to a field and seeing rotating lights before being returned home. These experiences are often associated with the UFO phenomenon and are considered highly credible.

Conclusion

George Wingfield advises an open mind, suggesting that some pictograms might be depictions of beings from Celtic mythology. He posits that crop circles could signal the next stage of human evolution and encourages people to visit England to experience them firsthand. The article concludes that whether one is mystically inclined or scientifically grounded, crop circles present a mystery that is continuously unfolding, offering a fertile ground for investigation. Recommended sources include Michael Chorost's bibliography in the MUFON UFO Journal.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the mystery of crop circles, exploring their potential origins, meanings, and connections to broader phenomena such as UFOs, ancient history, folklore, and spiritual beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting various theories and witness accounts while acknowledging the skepticism that surrounds the topic. The magazine, through its detailed reporting and inclusion of researchers like Wingfield and Haddington, leans towards exploring the more extraordinary explanations for crop circles, while also referencing skeptical viewpoints and debunked hoaxes.

This issue of UFO-NYT, identified as issue number 3/91, focuses on phenomena that blur the lines between natural occurrences and paranormal explanations. The cover headline, "ER AVTRYKKENE I KORNAKRENE ET NATURFENOMEN?" (Are the Crop Circle Imprints a Natural Phenomenon?), sets the tone for an exploration of crop circles and other intriguing subjects.

Crop Circles: Natural Phenomenon or Hoax?

The article "ER AVTRYKKENE I KORNAKRENE ET NATURFENOMEN?" addresses the skepticism surrounding crop circles. It notes that many have been proven to be hoaxes, with arrests made for vandalism. Professor Ohtsuki from Waseda University in Japan conducted a five-week study in England called 'Operation Blue Hill,' using equipment like radar. During his observations, two circles appeared within five kilometers, coinciding with a lull in the wind, a phenomenon that scientists attribute to air turbulence. The article questions how proponents of paranormal hypotheses would explain this. Professor Ohtsuki also demonstrated the ability to create similar circles in his laboratory by producing plasma, an experiment reported in 'Nature' on March 14, 1991. This research attracted significant attention.

Swedish ufologists are reported to be traveling to England to record video footage of crop circles for a Swedish TV channel, accompanied by a journalist from Sveriges Riksradio. They plan to involve experts in meteorology and plasma physics.

Interestingly, the article notes that 'circles' are not a new phenomenon, referencing a report from 1678 that attributed imprints to the Devil, describing them as triangular and suggesting the Devil left triangular footprints. This is linked to the case "Avtrykkene ved Namsenfjorden" (The Imprints at Namsenfjorden).

Professor Ohtsuki's experiments extended to Tokyo's subway tunnels. After the electricity was cut, he and engineers investigated for evidence of circle effects. They found dozens of circles in the dust along the tracks and on the tunnel walls, attributed to vortices created by passing trains. The article points out that these tunnels had not been cleaned for 25 years, and engineers had long known about these marks, questioning how 'creologists' (proponents of paranormal causes) would explain this 'intelligent' creation.

The article poses the question: if mini-circles can form in underground tunnels and laboratories, what kind of plasma would be required to form them in crop fields? It suggests Professor Ohtsuki is qualified to answer this.

A report from 'UFO TIMES' (Dr. 14/91) by Paul Fuller details an eyewitness account from Mr. and Mrs. Tomlinson, who observed a crop circle forming in a wheat field near Hambleton. They described the wind creating waves in the corn, which then seemed to change direction, forming a vortex. The sound increased, and a strong gust of wind circled them, flattening the corn stalks. They found themselves inside a circular imprint with smaller mini-circles swirling around.

The 'Face on Mars': A Hoax Revealed

The issue also tackles the "Face on Mars" phenomenon. For years, theories have circulated about a rock formation on Mars resembling a human face. NASA attributes it to a play of light and shadow. However, the article highlights a sensational claim from the Russian Mars 23 probe, which allegedly sent 2,000 images suggesting the 'face' was trying to speak, with its mouth moving. Dr. Peter Bosch, a German astrophysicist linked to the Soviet space program, is quoted as confirming the mouth's movement and attempt to speak, though the deciphered messages were unintelligible ('orgh, rigu, aach').

However, the article strongly debunks this claim. It points out that Dr. Peter Bosch does not appear in German biographical directories, suggesting he may not exist. Furthermore, it states that the Russian Mars 23 probe is not known, and the Phobos missions were unsuccessful. The claim of 2,000 images showing subtle mouth movements is deemed technically impossible given the resolution and distance. The article suggests that any perceived movement is likely due to retouching or modern computer techniques.

Ole J. Knudsen from SUFOIS Alarmcentral confirms that no Russian probe named Mars 23 has been launched, and the idea of transmitting 2,000 images of the formation with such detail is not technically feasible.

The article concludes that the 'Face on Mars' message is likely "HUMBUG!" and suggests the sensational reports may have originated from publications like Weekly World News.

Healing: A Skeptical Examination

The longest section of the magazine is dedicated to "HEALING" by Mary-Ann Barfod. It begins by questioning the value of many parapsychological phenomena, contrasting them with healing, which could radically change the lives of millions.

The article defines healing as a restoration to health, encompassing conventional medical practices as well as methods outside conventional medicine, including faith healing, Christian Science, psychic surgery, and spiritual healing. It notes that while these methods claim to restore health, their effectiveness is often debated.

It categorizes healing into three main types based on the source of healing power: divine intervention (God or Christ), supernatural life forces or disembodied spirits, and psychic phenomena like extrasensory perception and psychokinesis.

The article discusses various healing practices:

• Christian Science: Founded by Mary Baker Eddy, it views illness, pain, and death as illusions of the mind, rejecting conventional medicine. Christian Science healers aim to convince patients that their illness is unreal.
• Lourdes: The town of Lourdes in France is a popular pilgrimage site for healing, stemming from reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary and a miraculous spring. However, the article notes the risk of infection from the water and the lack of scientific evidence for miraculous cures.
• Evangelical Healing: This modern movement, prominent in the USA since the 1940s, is described as a multi-million dollar industry that often lacks proof of divine intervention. James Randi has exposed many of these healers as using tricks and deception, with patients often blaming their lack of faith for unsuccessful outcomes.
• Psychic Surgery: Originating in the Philippines, psychic surgeons claim to remove diseased tissue from patients, often using sleight of hand and theatrical tricks. The article cites James Randi's demonstrations of these techniques using props like fake thumbs and balloons filled with blood.
• Psychic Phenomena: Some healers use ESP and psychokinesis to diagnose and 'cure' patients, either directly, through PK, or by influencing the patient to heal themselves, or by impregnating objects with healing energy.

The article explores theories of 'energy transfer,' where a healer's energy is supposedly transferred to the patient, citing experiments by Maxwell Cade and Cashford. However, it also presents counter-arguments suggesting these effects might be due to different states of cortical arousal.

It acknowledges that healing sometimes appears to work, with patients feeling better. However, it suggests that the sporadic effects are more likely due to psychological factors and the natural course of illness rather than supernatural intervention. The concept of 'faith healing' is examined, distinguishing between healing attributed to divine power and healing that occurs due to the patient's own belief and the placebo effect. Empathy, reassurance, and suggestion are identified as key elements that can reduce tension and symptoms.

The article criticizes the lack of rigorous scientific controls in testing healing methods. It highlights that the media often glorifies healing successes while ignoring failures, contributing to a public perception that may not be based on evidence. The article warns of the dangers of relying on healing, especially for serious conditions like diabetes or cancer, as it can lead to patients abandoning conventional treatment or delaying seeking legitimate medical help.

Finally, the author categorizes healers into two groups: those who genuinely believe in their methods (often ignorant of the limitations of physical problems) and those who deliberately deceive desperate individuals. The latter are described as criminals who should be punished.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently adopts a skeptical stance towards paranormal claims, particularly regarding crop circles and the 'Face on Mars.' While acknowledging the existence of phenomena that defy easy explanation, it prioritizes scientific inquiry and evidence-based reasoning. The article on healing is particularly critical, exposing potential fraud and warning of the dangers of abandoning conventional medicine for unproven alternative therapies. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, seeking rational explanations for phenomena often attributed to the supernatural or extraterrestrial.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently adopts a skeptical stance towards paranormal claims, particularly regarding crop circles and the 'Face on Mars.' While acknowledging the existence of phenomena that defy easy explanation, it prioritizes scientific inquiry and evidence-based reasoning. The article on healing is particularly critical, exposing potential fraud and warning of the dangers of abandoning conventional medicine for unproven alternative therapies. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, seeking rational explanations for phenomena often attributed to the supernatural or extraterrestrial.

This issue of NIB (presumably 'Nytt om Irrasjonell Vitenskap' or similar, given the context) focuses on a prominent dispute between skeptic James Randi and psychic Uri Geller, alongside an in-depth look at the phenomenon of alternative medicine in the Netherlands. The magazine also includes several shorter 'notiser' (notices) covering various skeptical and pseudoscientific topics.

Striden mellom James Randi og Uri Geller

The main article details the ongoing conflict between James Randi and Uri Geller. It begins by providing updated information on Randi, including his real name (Randall James Hamilton Zwinge) and some of his published works. It notes his visits to Sweden and Denmark, where he was featured in publications like 'Folkvett' and 'Paranyt'.

The core of the dispute is Geller's accusation that Randi has harassed him for years. Geller has reportedly sent letters to skeptical organizations worldwide, complaining about Randi's actions and stating his intention to sue Randi in every country. Randi, however, claims he exposed Geller's tricks early on. Randi has already won two lawsuits, but the legal costs have been substantial, reportedly costing him $155,000. Due to these financial difficulties, a fund has been established to support Randi's defense against Geller's lawsuits. Interested parties are directed to contact Lewis Jones in England for more information.

Randi has also provided a point-by-point rebuttal to Geller's letter. The article suggests that Geller should provide evidence for his 'supernatural' abilities.

Video-opptaket av Randis forelesning i Trondheim

This section addresses a delay in announcing the sale of a video cassette of James Randi's lecture in Trondheim, which was intended for issue 2/91. Unforeseen hindrances prevented the timely advertisement. The magazine states that they are still working on making copies available for sale at an acceptable price, acknowledging the public's interest.

Randis svar til Uri Geller

This article is James Randi's direct response to Uri Geller's 'open letter'. Randi expresses that Geller seems upset by the support Randi has received from the academic community and skeptical groups. Randi refutes Geller's claim that Randi has been trying to expose him since the early 1970s, stating that it was Geller who was exposed then. Randi declines to comment on specific allegations made by Geller regarding events in Japan in 1988, citing ongoing legal proceedings and the advice of his lawyers. He emphasizes the high cost of legal battles, detailing his own expenses of $250 per hour for 18 months of legal work.

Randi contrasts Geller's reported wealth (owning a mansion worth twenty million dollars and boasting about luxury purchases) with his own financial situation, which he describes as near bankruptcy due to the legal costs. He mentions that funds from the MacArthur Foundation, which supported his research for books like 'The Mask of Nostradamus' and allowed him to give free lectures, have ceased. Money from recent MacArthur payments and TV series for Granada in England has gone directly to his lawyers.

Randi addresses Geller's statement that 'what Randi says about me is not true' and that most people are skeptical and not interested in Geller's viewpoint. Randi responds that skeptics are indeed interested in Geller's viewpoint, but more so in the truth, which requires proper investigation, not just opinion.

Randi concludes by stating that these matters are not suitable for public discussion in this manner, but Geller's 'open letter' necessitates a response to prevent his accusations from being accepted as fact. He reiterates that the case is in court and he is prepared to answer there.

Om alternativ medisin i Nederland

This extensive article examines the rise and current state of alternative medicine in the Netherlands. It begins by noting that the topic was discussed at a seminar organized by the Norwegian Medical Association in Oslo in December 1990. The authors, Cees Renckens and Ronald van Otterlo, focus on the situation in the Netherlands, where alternative medicine has experienced a significant boom.

Historically, a Dutch law from 1865 stipulated that only university-educated individuals could practice medicine. However, this law was widely circumvented by 'unauthorized' practitioners, including those selling secret remedies and practicing 'magnetism' (paranormal healing). While these practitioners were sometimes prosecuted, the situation began to change in the 1960s due to public opinion. Unauthorized healers started presenting themselves as individuals with supernatural abilities and alternative views on science and medicine.

By the 1980s, the number of medical doctors utilizing alternative methods had increased significantly. In 1978, an expert committee was appointed to assess the impact of alternative medicine. Their 1981 report recommended increased recognition and better regulation, including approved training for practitioners, scientific documentation of effects, and inclusion in insurance systems for physician-administered methods. The committee also proposed replacing the 1865 law with one that included non-physicians.

The report faced criticism, notably from psychologist van Dam, who argued that only 'scientific medicine' exists and has no place for pseudoscience. The Dutch Medical Association (KNMG) largely agreed, and the government was initially critical, particularly of insurance coverage for alternative therapies.

Despite this resistance, the alternative sector continued to grow. By 1979, an estimated seven million patient contacts with alternative practitioners occurred annually. By 1987, this number had risen to twelve million contacts for one million patients. In contrast, the number of contacts with general practitioners was fifty million in the same year.

In 1987, there were approximately 4,000 organized alternative practitioners in the Netherlands, including about 1,000 trained doctors (mostly general practitioners) and a few specialists. Around 1,500 were physiotherapists, and another 1,500 had no health education. General practitioners often incorporated homeopathy and anthroposophic medicine into their practice, while physiotherapists focused on acupuncture and manual therapy. A significant group of about 5,000 practitioners specialized in paranormal medicine, healing, and naturopathy.

The total annual turnover for the alternative sector was estimated at 570 million guilders (approximately 1.8 billion Norwegian kroner), a substantial amount compared to the public healthcare system's budget. The article notes that while general practitioners and pharmacists have become more open to alternative methods, many medical specialists remain highly dismissive.

Pharmacies in the Netherlands sell homeopathic remedies. The government has funded research into the effectiveness of alternative methods, but these studies have generally yielded negative results, with no demonstrable treatment effects.

Since May 1989, insurance companies have been obligated to refund homeopathic and anthroposophic medicines, provided they are listed in the 'Deutsche Homöopatische Arzneibuch'. The medical association's stance has become more tolerant, referring to 'additive' treatment methods that can be acceptable when used by doctors for specific indications.

The primary motivation for seeking alternative medicine is dissatisfaction with traditional medicine. The article argues that this dissatisfaction is not necessarily justified, given the Netherlands' high doctor-to-patient ratio and the training general practitioners receive in social and psychological aspects of health. However, the demand for alternative services has increased. Doctors find it irritating when patients seek alternative treatments, especially when they are given inaccurate or absurd explanations for their conditions. The 'medicalizing' effect of alternative medicine, where every ailment is 'treated', is also a concern.

The article suggests that the increasing number of doctors using alternative methods is concerning and may be linked to a lack of scientific training in medical education. It also points to high youth unemployment as a factor, leading some to pursue alternative medicine careers due to public demand.

Public demand for alternative medicine is attributed to a 'fashionable' phenomenon, influenced by sociological and psychological factors, and a general societal distrust of science and its developments (e.g., pollution, nuclear power issues). Media coverage of side effects of conventional medicine (like thalidomide and DES) also contributes to this.

Many people have a natural preference for natural remedies, but also have the impression that conventional medicine can treat almost anything, making them reluctant to accept its limitations. This, combined with the fact that few doctors are dismissive of alternative medicine, fuels its consumption.

Patients often lack sufficient understanding of how the body functions, making them vulnerable to misleading medical information. The conclusion is that the rise of alternative medicine is driven by trends and consumerism, with limited influence from doctors. The article questions whether the peak of this trend has passed in the Netherlands, but suggests it will likely persist.

Stjerner og kraketær (Stars and Cracked Toes)

This section discusses why graphology and astrology persist as popular beliefs despite being scientifically falsifiable. Psychologist Adrian Furnham suggests that people have a need to evaluate and describe others. He notes that graphologists' assessments are often general enough to apply to anyone. Furthermore, people tend to accept positive feedback more readily than negative feedback, and horoscopes can become self-fulfilling prophecies.

Notiser (Notices)

De mystiske kornsirklene (The Mysterious Crop Circles)

This notice debunks the paranormal explanation for crop circles, with Fred Day claiming he created similar patterns 47 years ago by walking in circles in a cornfield. The method described involves attaching one end of a rope to a stake and dragging the other end around the field.

Miljø-healing (Environmental Healing)

This notice mentions Norwegian healer Hugo Stenberg, who claims to 'heal' not only people but also polluted nature. Grant trees he has 'healed' reportedly grow four times faster.

Christian Science

A couple in Boston, members of Christian Science, were found guilty in the death of their son. The parents refused medical treatment for the child's intestinal issue, believing it could be healed through prayer. They now face a prison sentence of up to 20 years.

Argentinsk skeptiker-gruppe dannet (Argentinian Skeptic Group Formed)

In 1990, a group named Centro Argentino Para la Investigacion y Refutacion de la Pseudociencia was formed in Argentina. Its focus includes astrology, parapsychology, ufology, and quackery.

Torturert for undervisning i evolusjon (Tortured for Teaching Evolution)

Farouk Mohammed, a biology professor in Khartoum, Sudan, was imprisoned and allegedly tortured for teaching evolutionary theory. He reported that his interrogators made it clear that teaching evolution was his 'crime'.

Wings of Illusion: The Origin, Nature and Future of Paranormal Belief

This section is a promotional blurb for the book "Wings of Illusion" by John F. Schumaker, a clinical psychologist. The book explores why belief in the paranormal is a universal human cultural element, even in an era of declining traditional beliefs. Schumaker argues that paranormal belief is linked to intolerance, destructiveness, and brutality, raising questions about its compatibility with humanity's future. The book is recommended for a wide audience, including professionals in psychology, religious studies, and sociology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical viewpoint, critically examining paranormal claims, alternative medicine, and pseudoscientific phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, as demonstrated by the detailed analysis of the Randi-Geller dispute and the comprehensive review of alternative medicine in the Netherlands. The 'Notiser' section serves to quickly debunk or report on various unusual claims, reinforcing the magazine's commitment to critical thinking.