North Texas Skeptic - Vol 25 No 06 - 2011

Magazine Overview

Title: The North Texas Skeptic
Issue: Volume 25, Number 6
Date: June 2011
Publisher: The North Texas Skeptics
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The North Texas Skeptic, dated June 2011, focuses on the recurring theme of "The end of the world" and related predictions, alongside discussions on science education and political appointments.

The End of the World: A History of Failed Predictions

The lead article, "The end of the world" by John Blanton, explores the cyclical nature of doomsday predictions. It references ancient prophecies, such as those by Ezekiel concerning the destruction of Jerusalem (around 587 BCE), and later predictions like William Miller's prophecy of Christ's second coming on or before 1843, which eventually led to the formation of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

The article then shifts to more recent events, highlighting the frenzy in Rome surrounding a predicted earthquake based on the ideas of Raffaele Bendandi, an Italian scientist honored by Mussolini. Despite thousands preparing for the event, it was noted that Bendandi had not actually predicted an earthquake for May 11th of that year. The piece also covers radio evangelist Harold Camping's prediction of the world's end on May 21, 2011. Camping's prediction failed, leading to disappointment among his followers, including Keith Bauer, who had taken time off work and incurred debt in anticipation of the event. Camping later adjusted his prediction to October 21, 2011.

The NTS clarifies that it is not anti-religious but becomes interested when religious beliefs intersect with the physical world, citing examples like creationism, faith healing, and reincarnation. The article touches upon historical instances of cults like Heaven's Gate and Jonestown, and the Branch Davidian incident, as examples of people abandoning a real-world view for mental comfort, which can lead to self-destruction.

Legal and Political Battles Over Science Education

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the political and legal challenges surrounding science education, particularly the debate over teaching evolution. The article "Web news" by John Blanton discusses the Louisiana Science Education Act (LSEA), signed by Governor Bobby Jindal in 2008. This law aimed to foster an environment promoting critical thinking and objective discussion of scientific theories, but critics argued it could be used to introduce religious or unscientific viewpoints, especially regarding evolution, the origins of life, global warming, and human cloning.

The article details the opposition to the LSEA, including efforts to repeal it through Senate Bill 70. Numerous scientific and educational organizations, such as the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the National Center for Science Education (NCSE), and various scientific societies, endorsed the repeal. Letters from AAAS CEO Alan I. Leshner and statements from the New Orleans City Council are quoted, emphasizing the importance of teaching established scientific theories like evolution.

The issue also touches upon similar political dynamics in Texas, where Governor Rick Perry's appointments to the State Board of Education, such as Gail Lowe and Don McLeroy, were controversial due to their creationist views. The article notes that even some conservative politicians were growing weary of the political maneuvering associated with such appointments. The Texas Freedom Network is highlighted as an organization working to monitor and counter far-right initiatives in Texas.

The Paranormal Challenge

The "Challenge activity" section, also by John Blanton, details the North Texas Skeptics' Paranormal Challenge. The magazine requires claimants to provide a demonstration of their abilities before engaging in serious discussion. The article recounts an interaction with George Rhodes, who claimed to be a "rain maker" and expressed readiness to participate in the challenge. The NTS requested a demonstration and further details, but Rhodes's responses were deemed uninformative, leading to a pause in the evaluation process.

Skeptic Ink: A Comic Strip

A comic strip titled "Skeptic Ink" by Prasad Golla and John Blanton is included, humorously depicting the NTS's approach to claims, emphasizing critical thinking, scientific methodology, and peer-reviewed research, while contrasting it with a more simplistic or faith-based approach.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The North Texas Skeptic consistently advocates for a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding the world. The magazine critically examines pseudoscientific claims, end-of-the-world prophecies, and the politicization of science education. The editorial stance is one of promoting critical thinking, scientific literacy, and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, while respecting individuals' personal beliefs as long as they do not infringe upon the scientific understanding of the physical world or public education.