NIVFO-Bulletin - 1994 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: NIVFO bulletin
Issue: 1/1994
Volume: 14. ÅRGANG
Date: 1994
Publisher: NORSK INSTITUTT FOR VITENSKAPELIG FORSKNING OG OPPLYSNING (Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information)
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0800-0360

This issue of NIVFO bulletin, a publication focused on scientific research, information, and skepticism towards pseudoscience, features a prominent article on magician and debunker James Randi's second visit to Trondheim, Norway. The cover also highlights articles on German health authorities banning herbal preparations, a study of pathological science, crimes committed in the name of religion, and revelations about Sai Baba's alleged miracles.

James Randi's Second Visit to Trondheim

The issue details James Randi's highly attended lecture in Trondheim, where an estimated 1000 people were present, with many more unable to enter. An additional lecture was held the following day, and Randi also presented to medical professionals at the Medical Technical Center. The article notes the lack of TV coverage for this visit. Randi demonstrated "psychic surgery," which the bulletin describes as a type of fraud. A quote from Adresseavisen captures the atmosphere, describing Randi as a magician exposing "occult tricksters." Randi's stated mission is to reveal advanced charlatans in alternative medicine.

Randi also discussed his skepticism towards various phenomena, including the existence of UFOs, suggesting that belief in phenomena at Loch Ness or Hessdalen might be driven by tourism prospects. He also expressed skepticism about supernatural events, stating that Santa Claus does not exist and that there is no evidence for supernatural phenomena.

The article further reports on Randi's critique of scientific fraud, urging for a critical stance even towards Nobel laureates, citing examples like Mendel and Marie Curie adjusting data. He also warned against a "modern witch hunt" in incest cases, where he believes memory distortion and biased interrogations lead to false accusations.

"Philippine Chicken Surgeon" in Trondheim

Professor Olav Anton Haugen from RiT is interviewed regarding Randi's "psychic surgery." A Filipino "healer" who claimed to perform surgery with bare hands had visited Trondheim multiple times. Samples of alleged organ tissue, presented as a piece of kidney, were analyzed by Professor Haugen and found to be animal blood, with no trace of human organ material. Haugen concluded that this practice was pure fraud, and the "operations" were performed in patients' homes.

"Kidney" Was Blood

Professor Haugen's analysis of a sample provided by a skeptical relative revealed it to be animal blood, not human organ tissue. The blood had been preserved in alcohol, making it impossible to determine the species.

Norwegian Television Coverage

Despite Randi's high-profile visit, there was no TV recording. While some might expect TV coverage for such an event, TV-2 received the press release late, and NRK's program 'Schrødingers Katt' declined due to the lecture being on a Friday afternoon and the need for overtime work. The program management also noted Randi's unwillingness to reveal his tricks.

Student Week and Homeopathy

Randi's visit coincided with Trondheim's "UKA" student festival, which provided excellent arrangements for him. After Norway, Randi continued his tour to other Nordic countries.

The bulletin also addresses Randi's debunking of homeopathy, referencing Dr. Jacques Benveniste's experiment. A homeopath, Jan Evenhus, reacted to Randi's statements, suggesting that homeopathy consisting of dilutions was common knowledge. The article criticizes the use of New Age jargon like "energy structures" and "vibrational fields" in explaining homeopathy, stating that Randi exposed such explanations as poor scientific craftsmanship.

UFO and Paranormal Cases

UFO Gulf Breeze-Saken ("A Third Degree Photographic Encounter")

This case, previously covered in NIB 4-5/90, was hailed by a major UFO organization as potentially the "best" in ufology history. However, skeptics, including Philip Klass of CSICOP, pointed out numerous suspicious circumstances. Even the discovery of models of the alleged UFOs at the observer's home did not sway believers. An article in UFO Times by Mike Wotten references an analysis by William Hyzer, a leading photo analyst, who concluded that the Gulf Breeze photos were "very characteristic of double-exposed pictures and could easily be made with a simple application of this technique." Hyzer identified image #19 as a forgery. The case has reportedly caused further disappointment in ufology.

"Crop Circles"

Redaktør Wotten questions the fading interest in crop circles, noting the absence of dramatic media headlines and the emigration of cereologists to the USA. The crop circle organization CCCS has reportedly split due to the "bluff" element. The article traces the doubt back to Doug and Dave, who claimed to have created circles. The National Farmers Union also asked media to stop publishing new circle reports due to damage to fields caused by onlookers. Wotten suggests that the crop circle producers have lost their audience and reduced their activities, mentioning 24 known crop circle hoax groups in England.

The close connection between MUFON's international director Walter Andrews and English crop circle researcher Pat Delgado has also dissolved. Andrews, following an "ultra-New Age" line, predicted contact with "intelligence" behind the circles. He, along with American ufologist Steven Greer, reportedly observed a "strange red light" on July 30th, interpreted as a spaceship. The details of this event are vague, with the battery for the video equipment being stored away to protect it from rain.

"A Huge Success for Rocky Mountain Skeptics"

In Colorado, USA, a nursing school taught "laying on of hands" as a treatment method. Rocky Mountain Skeptics (RMS) has been involved for 2-3 years, facing difficulties with the school and involved nurses. Official intervention has now occurred against the school's pseudoscientific practices. This engagement, along with media reports, has been highly beneficial for RMS. RMS has distributed materials globally, bypassing the usual CSICOP procedure. The article highlights this case as an example of how skeptical efforts can be effective.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and alternative medicine, exemplified by the extensive coverage of James Randi's debunking activities. The publication consistently questions the validity of phenomena like UFOs, psychic abilities, and unproven medical treatments, advocating for scientific rigor and critical thinking. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and against what it perceives as fraudulent or unsubstantiated claims, particularly in the realms of ufology and alternative healing.

This issue of UFO-Nyt, dated 2/93, delves into a variety of topics ranging from alleged alien encounters and miraculous healings to the exposure of religious fraud and scientific skepticism.

Mer ufologi: Brakk nakken på en UFO-naut

This section reports on the claims of American ufologist Don Worley and his findings regarding contactee Patsy Wingate. Wingate recounts an experience where she allegedly encountered three small grey aliens in her bathroom. In a moment of panic, she claims to have grabbed one of the beings by the neck and broken it, killing it. The other two aliens then reportedly carried the deceased extraterrestrial away.

Enøyet Rommann

This short piece critiques sensationalist magazines like the American National Enquirer and Weekly World News, suggesting that UFO-Nyt is beginning to rival them in fabricated stories. It mentions a story from UFO-Nyt nr. 2/92 about the Wasserman couple's six-year-old daughter, who was allegedly miraculously healed of a heart defect on her parents' kitchen by a one-eyed alien.

President Bush holdt tett om romfolkene

This article discusses an incident where President George Bush was handed a copy of the tabloid Weekly World News, which featured a headline about aliens meeting Ross Perot. The article within claimed that aliens had also met with Bush at Camp David. Bush's alleged reaction, as reported, was a humorous remark about wanting the meeting to be kept secret and being surprised to find Perot there as well. The piece expresses concern that such sensationalist claims might be taken seriously in future UFO literature.

UFO-ekspertene venter storbesøk til OL

This is a cartoon depicting two aliens in a UFO arriving at a planet adorned with Olympic rings, with a speech bubble asking, "Did you remember the tickets?". The accompanying text suggests that UFO experts are anticipating a large influx of visitors for the Olympics, implying a connection to UFO sightings or interest surrounding the event.

Tyske helsemyndigheter forbyr en stor del urtepreparater

This article details actions taken by German health authorities (Bundesgesundheitamt - BGA) regarding herbal and homeopathic preparations. In the autumn of 1992, they banned 50 such products containing toxic pyrrolizadine alkaloids, deeming them both ineffective and dangerous. The BGA also set dosage limits for 550 other 'natural preparations' containing these alkaloids. Jürgen Henning from the BGA is quoted stating that plant-derived medicines can be as dangerous as laboratory-produced ones. The article explains that pyrrolizadine alkaloids can damage the liver, potentially causing cirrhosis and even death with prolonged high intake. Lower doses can alter genetic material, harm embryos, and may be carcinogenic, according to animal studies. Konstantin Keller from BGAS pharmaceutical institute elaborates, describing how consuming large amounts of comfrey leaves (valurt) can lead to poisoning, nausea, vomiting, shock, coma, and death. He also notes that smaller doses can cause genetic mutations in individual cells, potentially leading to cancer. The BGA report indicates that these alkaloids are metabolized in the liver into pyrrol-like compounds that bind to genetic material, causing damage. Keller emphasizes that there is no risk-free dose and the range of safe usage varies greatly by plant and application. Since 1980, manufacturers have voluntarily recalled approximately 2500 products containing these alkaloids. However, BGA spokesmen suggest that these are only part of the problem, as nearly 60% of the 100,000 drugs on the German market are herbal or homeopathic and will be studied further.

Scientologikirken i retten

This brief report states that the Church of Scientology is facing a lawsuit in Oslo city court. The plaintiff is seeking 215,000 kroner in damages for courses and course materials. Rune Vikan, a legal representative, explains that his client took out loans to finance their membership in the Oslo Scientology church, with the funds used for courses, materials, and 'auditing' (a form of interrogation).

Nye avsløringer av Sai Baba's "mirakler"

This section critically examines the claims of Satya Sai Baba, an Indian swami referred to as a "godman." The article suggests that he achieves his following of tens of thousands of devotees through common magic tricks. A video from November 1992 allegedly showed Baba producing a gold bracelet out of thin air. Indian authorities reportedly tried to suppress the footage, but copies have since emerged. The article highlights the work of Indian CSICOP, led by illusionist B. Premanand, who dedicates himself to exposing the deceptions of Indian gurus. Premanand has compiled a list of commonly performed "miracles" and their explanations. Two examples are provided:

MIRAKEL NR 106: Psychic Powers

A priest in the USA demonstrated psychic abilities by cutting a newspaper column and then, claiming to read the mind of a spectator, predicting where the cut would be made. The method involved preparing a duplicate newspaper clipping with the correct cut already made and a blank tape to cover the actual cut, creating the illusion of mind-reading. The spectator would be asked to point to a spot, and the priest would make the cut, which would appear to match his prediction.

123. EFFEKT: And i en kokkosnøtt (Spirit in a coconut)

This trick involves transferring a "spirit" from a haunted object into a coconut, causing the coconut to move. The method uses a live mouse or frog placed inside a hollowed-out coconut. When the coconut is placed on the floor, the animal's movements make it appear to move on its own.

124. EFFEKT: En ørn kommer klokken 12.00 til et tempel (An eagle arrives at the temple at 12:00 PM)

This describes a supposed miracle at a temple in Tamilnadu where two eagles arrive precisely at 12:00 PM for offerings. Premanand reveals that in 1945, the eagles were captured and fed opium at 12:00 PM, making them dependent on the timing and location for their drug fix.

126. EFFEKT: Å bli slått med en svepe uten å skades (Being whipped with a lash without injury)

This describes a ritual where oracles in Kali temples can be whipped with a jute rope without harm. The trick involves using a specially thinned rope. If a small knot is attached to the end, it can cause skin to be torn off.

128. EFFEKT: Risping i kroppen med kniv (Scratching the body with a knife)

This practice, performed by Muslims and Hindu oracles, involves cutting the skin with a knife, causing blood to appear. The wounds then supposedly vanish. The method uses ferric chloride and sodium cyanide. The skin is coated with ferric chloride, and the knife is dipped in sodium cyanide. When the knife touches the skin, red marks appear, which are then wiped away, creating the illusion of a vanishing wound.

Et studium av patologisk vitenskap

This article discusses the emerging interest among Chinese scientists and psychologists in studying "pathological science." This concept is seen as a way to counter "paranormal science" in China, where it is considered an important concept in the West. The article mentions several publications that have introduced and discussed this concept, including research on "Patological Science, Cold Fusion etc." and articles on "Cold Fusion, Qigong Craze and Patological Science." It notes the popularity of paranormal beliefs in China, attributing it partly to a lack of developed scientific thinking and pride in traditional culture. The study of pathological science is suggested as a means to help people critically evaluate such beliefs.

Forbrytelser i ly av religionens fane

This section critically examines the phenomenon of "religious freedom" in the USA, highlighting numerous deaths and tragedies attributed to it. It focuses on so-called evangelists who are portrayed as businesspeople exploiting the gullible. The article specifically details the case of evangelist Robert Tilton, who is being investigated by government attorney Dan Morales. The piece includes a reader's letter defending Tilton, questioning "Where is the crime?" and suggesting that the government should not protect people from poor decisions. However, the article strongly condemns the misuse of public funds and the alleged deception. Bob Ray Sanders, a radio host, is mentioned as a defender of Tilton, arguing that he has only practiced religious freedom. The article then presents the case of Mary Elizabeth Turck, a 67-year-old widow who, due to her faith in Tilton's promises of healing through television, refused medical treatment for colon cancer. She sent all her money to Tilton, only to realize too late that his promises were a scam. Doctors reportedly told her she would likely have been cured if she had sought timely medical attention. The article poses rhetorical questions to those who defend Tilton and similar figures, asking what if the victim were their own mother, and suggesting that such charlatans who enrich themselves through people's credulity should be prosecuted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of paranormal claims, the exposure of hoaxes and scams, and the questioning of purported miracles and supernatural phenomena. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, aiming to debunk sensationalist stories and highlight the potential for deception in areas of ufology, alternative health, and religious practices. There is a clear editorial stance against fraudulent claims and exploitation, particularly when it involves exploiting people's faith or credulity for financial gain.

This issue of Skeptical Briefs, identified as number 2/92, focuses on the establishment of a skeptic organization in Hungary and includes broader commentary on societal trends and skeptical investigations.

Skepticism in Hungary

The lead article details the formation of the 'Hungarian Skeptics' organization. It notes that the organization has already made its presence felt on various fronts. Their initial project was to publish an appeal for assistance in establishing the group, which appeared in Nepszabadsag, Hungary's largest newspaper, and the monthly science magazine Termeszet Vilaga (Nature's World). The appeal highlights the rise of pseudoscientific tendencies in Hungary following democratic changes, stating it is the scientific community's duty to prevent charlatans from exploiting the public. The organization emphasizes the importance of popularizing critical thinking, especially in a time of societal change and a general crisis of trust in science. They welcome all who approach 'paranormal' phenomena and harmful cults in a sensible and critical manner.

The Society for the Dissemination of Science and the editorial team of World of Nature had previously contacted CSICOP for advice on establishing Hungarian Skeptics and integrating them into the international skeptical movement. The request was signed by the Hungarian Society for the Dissemination of Science, the Editors of World of Nature, The Chamber of Scientific Journalists, and the Hungarian Association of Scientific Films.

James Randi was invited to Hungary for an intensive eight-day lecture and media tour. He met with members of the Chamber of Scientific Journalists for a lengthy discussion and also lectured to the Hungarian Union of Magicians. During an international neurological conference in Visegrad, Randi addressed over a hundred scientists. On January 24th, he gave a lecture to five hundred people at the Budapest Planetarium.

The following day, Randi participated in a program organized by World of Nature for high-school teachers and students. During this event, World of Nature announced a national competition for student articles on scientific topics, the first such competition in the magazine's 123-year history.

At this same gathering, Randi was presented with the highest award by the president of the Society for the Dissemination of Science, Professor Janos Szentágothai. Szentágothai is also a former president of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and a member of the Hungarian Parliament. The award, a commemorative plaque and a gold wreath, recognized Randi's long-standing work in exposing pseudoscience.

Furthermore, World of Nature has launched a column titled "Skeptics Corner," featuring translated articles from Skeptical Inquirer.

The president of the Hungarian Skeptics is Professor Szentágot hai. Other notable members include physicist Gyula Bencze, astronomer Ivan Almar, magician Gergely Molnar, author Istvan Lazar, World of Nature editor Gyula Staar, historian of science Laszlo Vekerdi, psychology professor Gyorgy Adam, chemist Mihaly Beck, and organizational secretary Orsi Rethelyi.

The organization's address is: Hungarian Skeptics, c/o Termeszet Vilaga, P.O. Box 256, Budapest 8, 1444 Hungary. The fax number is 36-1-118-7506.

Reflections on the Turn of the Millennium

Merete Lie Hoel's article, "NOEN REFLEKSJONER VED STARTEN PA ET NYTT AR" (Some Reflections at the Start of a New Year), offers a critical perspective on contemporary society as it approaches the year 2000. The author contrasts the perceived decadence of the present with historical examples like the Romans and the French aristocracy, suggesting that modern society is not necessarily more decadent but perhaps more openly so. The article critiques the overwhelming influx of information through various media, leading to a superficial engagement with knowledge and a disconnect from each other. It laments the state of modern art, which is described as flat and incomprehensible, producing 'sand and nail piles' and 'thick books that cannot be read.' The author also criticizes the advancements in science and technology, which were meant to save the world but are now seen as potentially destructive, leading to issues like AIDS and starvation. The article touches upon the perceived decline in societal values, with corrupt leaders, the commercialization of sports ('bread and circuses'), and the pursuit of wealth leading to unhappiness and rootlessness.

The author suggests that as we approach the year 2000, there is a tendency to look backward, seeking comfort in older styles and traditions. This is reflected in home decor and fashion. However, the author questions whether this nostalgia is sufficient and calls for a new modernism characterized by a sense of responsibility, faith, and love, suggesting that the year 2001 would be a more fitting time for such a transformation.

UFO Classics: Kelly-Hopkinsville

The "UFO-KLASSIKERE" (UFO Classics) section revisits the 1955 Kelly-Hopkinsville case. The article notes that many older UFO accounts have been superseded by newer investigations. The Kelly-Hopkinsville case involved 11 people reportedly besieged by small beings with large luminous eyes and claw-like hands. In November 1992, John W. Coates from Houston investigated this case. He located one of the policemen involved, who stated that no traces were found on the farm and that the 'bullet holes' in the windows appeared to have been cut. The policeman also found the witnesses not to be credible. It was also noted that a science fiction film had been released in the area that same week.

Investigating Scientology

The article "SØKELYS PA SCIENTOLOGENE" (Inquiries into Scientology) by journalist John-Einar Sandvand, author of the book 'Religion til salgs' (Religion for Sale), describes Scientology as a multinational corporation that uses religiosity to gain power over insecure and often young individuals, leading to significant economic and psychological problems for its 'victims.' Sandvand's book details how the organization annually earns hundreds of millions of kroner from people persuaded to buy expensive courses, promising them abilities like flying between planets and remembering past lives. While the organization's global leadership manages a vast fortune, employees in local branches, such as Oslo, reportedly earn only a few hundred kroner per week. The article traces Scientology's history from its founding by L. Ron Hubbard, a mediocre science fiction writer, and describes its current operations and tactics both in Norway and internationally. Sandvand, an award-winning investigative journalist for Vårt Land, interviewed former members of the Church of Scientology in Norway and the USA for his book.

From the Editorial Office

The "FRA REDAKSJONEN" (From the Editorial Office) section apologizes for a significant delay in publication, attributed to an 'experiment' in Lithuania that was intended to reduce printing and postage costs but ultimately failed. The editorial team acknowledges that the individuals involved could not master the task and, after a year, had to admit defeat. Consequently, NIB (presumably the magazine's acronym) is about a year behind schedule. To regain momentum, they plan to skip the 1993 volume and begin with 1994. Subscribers who paid for 1993 will have their subscriptions extended to the current year. The magazine will now be produced in Norway, with hopes for an improved layout in future issues. The editors apologize for the simple presentation of this issue, emphasizing that content is paramount. They thank subscribers for their patience and understanding, admitting they placed undue trust in a partner and were not 'skeptical enough.' They wish readers a Happy New Year.

Dubious Science

The "TVILSOM VITENSKAP" (Dubious Science) section reports on a letter received in December 1992 from 'Programme Laboratories' in Jordan. This entity requested participation in a project to demonstrate sticking needles and metal spikes through the body without causing injury or pain, claiming experiments had shown this to be possible. Similar letters were reportedly sent to other skeptic organizations, including Indian CSICOP. B. Premanand, a magician and leader of Indian CSICOP, responded by requesting X-ray images of the test subjects with the spikes and needles in place. The outcome of this request was unknown at the time of writing.

Nostradamus on Offer

Under the heading "NOSTRADAMUS PÅ TILBUD" (Nostradamus on Offer), the text mentions a book club in England advertising a book titled "Nostradamus: the end of the Millennium" for a low price (approximately 20 Norwegian kroner) upon joining. An interesting point highlighted is a prediction within the book stating that George Bush would be re-elected in 1992, which the text notes with an 'Oobs!' (an exclamation of surprise or disbelief).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes skepticism and critical thinking as essential tools for navigating a world increasingly influenced by pseudoscience, misinformation, and what the editors perceive as societal decay. The establishment of the Hungarian Skeptics organization is presented as a positive development, aligning with the magazine's core values. The critique of Scientology and the examination of UFO cases reflect a commitment to debunking claims lacking empirical evidence. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry and a scientific worldview, urging readers to be discerning and critical of extraordinary claims and societal trends.