North Texas Skeptic - Vol 23 No 11 - 2009

Magazine Overview

The North Texas Skeptic, Volume 23, Number 11, published in November 2009, is a magazine dedicated to skeptical inquiry and the debunking of paranormal phenomena, pseudoscience, and conspiracy theories. This issue, titled "Conspiracy Times," focuses on various popular conspiracy theories of the year.

Conspiracy Times: Your Annual Report

This section, authored by John Brandt, reviews the year's significant conspiracy theories. It begins by addressing the "MIHOP" (Made It Happen On Purpose) proponents, such as Architects and Engineers for 9/11 Truth, who question the official account of the 9/11 attacks. Their latest hypothesis involves "nano-thermite," an experimental thermite made from nanoscale particles. The theory posits that this substance was used to cut the WTC girders, based on a photograph of a fireman near a cut girder, implying the cutting occurred during the attack rather than during cleanup. The article points out the logistical difficulties of installing and using such a large quantity of thermite and questions the rationale behind the supposed conspirators' actions. The author then introduces the concept of "nano-thermite" as a faster-burning substance, but notes its R&D status in 2001 makes its use in the attacks unlikely. The article also touches upon the "LIHOP" (Let It Happen On Purpose) theory, which suggests the Bush administration knew about the attacks and allowed them to occur, noting that while scientific questions can be addressed, LIHOP theories are harder to debunk.

Other Left-Wing Conspiracy Theories

The article notes that some conspiracy theories originate from the political left, such as the claim that the Bush administration deliberately destroyed New Orleans levees during Hurricane Katrina or inflicted AIDS and drugs on inner cities. However, it highlights that 9/11 conspiracy theories have gained more traction. It mentions Van Jones, President Obama's "green jobs" advisor, who resigned after endorsing the LIHOP theory, suggesting that some signatories might have merely sought a second investigation into 9/11.

Right-Wing Conspiracy Theories

The publication anticipates a shift in conspiracy theorizing towards the far right with the change in presidential power. Historically, right-wing theories have targeted left-of-center presidents, often involving secret alliances with Communists. The article contrasts this with the left's approach, noting that mainstream conservative politicians are more willing to endorse right-wing conspiracy theories.

"Birthers"

This section delves into the "birther" conspiracy theory, which claims President Obama was not born in the U.S. and is thus unqualified to be President. The author finds this theory easily debunked, citing contemporaneous birth announcements in Hawaiian newspapers in 1961 and the fact that Obama's mother was a U.S. citizen. The article dismisses claims that the Hawaiian birth certificate is a forgery or that a purported Kenyan birth certificate is genuine. It mocks the idea that birth announcements from 1961 could be part of a conspiracy to facilitate Obama's father's immigration or that his mother's age at his birth would invalidate his citizenship. The author sarcastically notes that "birthers" likely reject the theory of evolution.

Conspiracy Theories-To-Be

The article speculates on future conspiracy theories, suggesting that the debate over health care reform is a fertile ground. It addresses claims made by opponents of the reform, such as the existence of "death panels," provisions for abortions, or benefits for undocumented aliens. The author points to President Obama's statements clarifying these points and the outburst of Representative Joe Wilson, who accused the President of lying. The article explains that while health care reform bills are complex, provisions like the "public option" are designed to be self-funded through premiums, and that undocumented immigrants would only receive benefits if they were legally present in the U.S. or if future immigration reform granted them legal status.

Skeptic Ink

This section, by Prasad Golla and John Blanton, features a comic strip and discussions on various topics.

"One less hoax to worry about"

Prasad Golla discusses the "balloon boy" hoax of October 2009, where a family claimed their son was lost in a homemade balloon. The article reveals this was a hoax orchestrated by the parents, Richard and Mayumi Heene, to gain attention and money due to financial difficulties. It contrasts this with earlier incidents, including an 11-year-old boy in 1964 who was accidentally lifted in a balloon and a 4-year-old boy in 1933 who was strapped to balloons for shows. The author expresses frustration with the waste of resources and time on such hoaxes, suggesting that efforts could be better directed towards solving real-world problems.

Critique of Don Patton's Use of Quotes

John Blanton addresses objections raised by Jared McCormick concerning his previous writings about Dr. Don Patton's use of quotes. Blanton defends his position, stating that while Patton's theories may be debatable, his honesty and upfront presentation of information are not in question. However, Blanton then proceeds to detail how creationists, including Don Patton, engage in "quote mining" and "out-of-context quotes." He illustrates this with examples, including Patton's manipulation of quotes from scientists regarding radiometric dating and from Richard Dawkins' "The Blind Watchmaker." Blanton argues that Patton selectively uses parts of texts, rearranges them, and omits crucial context to support his creationist arguments, effectively distorting the original authors' meanings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rational, scientific approach to evaluating claims, particularly those related to paranormal phenomena and conspiracy theories. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk misinformation and expose hoaxes through evidence-based reasoning. The publication encourages critical thinking and the systematic testing of claims, as outlined in its membership agreement. Recurring themes include the analysis of 9/11 conspiracy theories, the debunking of popular hoaxes, and the critique of pseudoscientific arguments, particularly those from creationist sources. The magazine also touches upon political conspiracy theories, contrasting the approaches of different political ideologies.

Organization Information

The North Texas Skeptics is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) scientific and educational organization. Members receive the NTS newsletter and may attend NTS functions. The newsletter is published monthly and provides contact information and membership application details. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the organization.