Phactum - 2009 09 - September

Magazine Overview

Phactum, September 2009 issue. This newsletter from the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT) covers a range of topics including historical accounts of unusual phenomena, science education events, and discussions on skepticism.

Phantom Armies in the Sky over the Delmarva Peninsula

This article by Don Nigroni explores historical reports of "phantom armies" seen in the sky, suggesting they might be omens, precognitions, or retrocognitions of past events. A notable account details sightings of phantom armies of angels and soldiers in the Delmarva Peninsula shortly after President Garfield's assassination in 1881. Charles Fort's writings are cited, referencing dispatches from Wilmington, Delaware, describing platoons of angels and even the ghostly figure of President Garfield himself. The author notes that general acceptance attributes such phenomena to the prevailing thoughts and subjects uppermost in people's minds.

PhACT Calendar

The calendar section details upcoming events hosted or supported by PhACT and related organizations in the Philadelphia area for September, October, November, and December 2009. These include:

• PhACT Meetings: Held on the third Saturday of most months at the Community College of Philadelphia. The September 19, 2009 meeting features Dr. Lewis Mifsud discussing "Science, Pseudoscience and the Law." The October 17, 2009 meeting features Dr. Paul Halpern discussing his book "Collider: The Search for the World's Smallest Particles." The November 21, 2009 meeting features Dr. Robert L. Park discussing "Superstition: Belief in the Age of Science."
• Delaware Valley Mensa General Membership Meeting: Held on the second Friday of each month at the Police Administration Building, Philadelphia.
• Delaware Valley Opera Company: Performing on Sunday, September 13, 2009.
• Philadelphia Urban Sustainability Forum: "No Vacancy": Reimagining Vacant Land In Philadelphia, on September 17, 2009, at the Academy of Natural Sciences.
• Energy Use in Condominiums: An event on September 22, 2009, at the Academy of Natural Sciences.
• An Evening with Explorer Richard Wiese: On September 24, 2009, at The Academy of Natural Sciences.
• Free Lecture Series at the Free Library of Philadelphia: Featuring authors and speakers like Karen Armstrong (October 1), Steve Poses (October 15), Richard Dawkins (October 22), Gordon S. Wood (October 29), and Adam Gopnik (November 24).
• 2009-10 Penn Science Café Schedule: A series of lectures held at the White Dog Café, Philadelphia, featuring topics like "How the Vast and the Miniscule Conspire to Form Our Universe" (September 16) and "Free Will and the Criminal Justice System" (October 14).
• Science on Tap: A monthly gathering at National Mechanics, Philadelphia, for discussions on science topics. The September 14, 2009 event features Robert D. Hicks discussing "Bringing Physics to Physicians."
• Wagner Free Institute of Science: Offering fall courses and "Weeknights at the Wagner" lectures, including "Life at the Bottom of the World: Deep-Sea Cephalopods of the Atlantic" (October 15).

Science, Pseudoscience and the Law

This section details an upcoming PhACT event on September 19, 2009, featuring Professor Lewis Mifsud. The lecture will cover the legal authentication of scientific evidence, including criteria introduced by the U.S. Supreme Court case *Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc.* A biographical sketch of Lewis Mifsud highlights his extensive academic and professional background in physics, engineering, and his work as a testifying expert in legal cases.

Letters

Don Nigroni's story about the screaming lady of Fort Mifflin: A letter from Bob Glickman and Eric Krieg recounts their overnight stay at Fort Mifflin, noting the creepy atmosphere but attributing screams to drag racing noise rather than paranormal activity.

Delaware Valley Science Fairs (DVSF): Henry Disston, President and Director of DVSF, clarifies that PhACT's prize money supports the Bucks County Science Research Competition, which feeds into DVSF and the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

Jeffry Meldrum and Bigfoot: A letter from L. David Leiter discusses an article in *Scientific American* about Jeffry Meldrum, an expert on Bigfoot anatomy. Leiter quotes Meldrum on the challenges of studying fringe science and criticizes skeptics for avoiding Type-1 errors (believing something untrue) at the expense of Type-2 errors (not believing something true).

Reincarnation and Ben Franklin: L. David Leiter also discusses Ian Stevenson's work on reincarnation and Ben Franklin's possible views on the subject, inviting further discussion.

Skepticism Definition: A quote attributed to the late Marcello Truzzi defines skepticism as "doubt, not denial."

Various Ruminations

Global Warming Skepticism: This section presents thoughts from Australian geologist Ian Plimer, who argues that carbon dioxide's effect on the atmosphere is limited to the first 50 parts per million and that past periods with much higher CO2 levels did not result in runaway global warming, but rather glaciation. He asserts that carbon dioxide is vital plant food and demonizing it shows a lack of understanding.

Creationist theme park shut down: An update on Dinosaur Adventure Land, a Creationist theme park operated by evangelist Kent Hovind, which was seized by the federal government due to unpaid employee taxes. Hovind claimed he was employed by God and therefore exempt from taxes.

James Randi excerpt: A brief mention of an article by James Randi titled "We Should Be Insulted."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, while also supporting science education and public engagement with scientific topics. The editorial stance appears to be open to diverse viewpoints within a scientific framework, encouraging discussion and debate, as evidenced by the "Letters" and "Various Ruminations" sections. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between science and pseudoscience, as highlighted in the "Science, Pseudoscience and the Law" event and the discussion on skepticism.

Title: Phactum
Issue: September 2009
Volume: 11

This issue of Phactum magazine delves into a diverse range of topics, from critiques of alternative medicine and government health agencies to explorations of neuroscience, physics, and the practicalities of space exploration. The publication maintains a critical and evidence-based perspective, challenging pseudoscientific claims and promoting rational inquiry.

Articles and Features

NCCAM Promoting Quack Teaching

The article begins by highlighting the significant financial aspect of the "complimentary and alternative medicine" (CAM) business in the US, estimated at $34 billion annually. It questions the accessibility of information regarding the budget of the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) and its NCCAM section. The author notes a pattern of clinical trials conducted by NCCAM where results are not well-publicized and costs are not disclosed. The piece invites readers to share their observations and contribute to Phactum.

A report from Dr. Stephen Barrett's Consumer Health Digest details how NCCAM has been funding low-quality educational programs in schools that train health professionals. From 2000 to 2003, NCCAM awarded grants to 14 schools and the American Medical Students Association Foundation to integrate CAM into curricula. An examination of these programs revealed biased teachings on herbal remedies, chiropractic, acupuncture, and homeopathy, often basing positive conclusions on low-quality trials while ignoring negative results from larger studies. The investigators concluded that these programs failed to uphold educational standards, leading to the recommendation that NCCAM should cease funding programs that promote unproven methods.

Odd Medical Device Department

PhACT President Eric Krieg shares information about a historical medical device: tobacco smoke enemas, popular from the 1750s to the 1810s. This procedure involved infusing smoke into a patient's rectum, primarily for the resuscitation of drowning victims. The article humorously speculates on potential modern recreational uses for such devices.

Free Energy in Australia

This section highlights a website promoting a "free energy" contraption described as a perpetual motion machine that produces more energy than it consumes, defying the laws of physics. The device is slated for sale in two years for approximately $5,000, though the article expresses skepticism regarding production timelines.

Creationist Education and the Internet

The article discusses the efforts of Professor William Dembski of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to require students to insert "pro Intelligent Design" materials into "hostile" internet websites, as part of his 2009-2010 Academic Year Teaching schedule.

Collider: The Search for the World's Smallest Particles

This is a review of Paul Halpern's book, which provides an accessible overview of particle physics and the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The book explains how the LHC will smash particles to deconstruct matter, test the existence of the Higgs boson, and potentially confirm or disprove current understandings of quarks, string theory, dark matter, and dark energy.

What Makes Us Different?

This article, by Paul Schlueter III, explores the unique characteristics of humans, particularly focusing on von Economo neurons (VENs). These neurons, discovered by Constantin von Economo, are larger than typical neurons and have only two dendrites. They are found in the anterior cingulate cortex and frontal insula and are thought to be crucial for advanced social development, enabling complex interactions, recognition of others, long-term attachments, and 'theory of mind.' VENs are found in Great Apes and humans, with humans possessing them in the greatest proportion. The article notes that these neurons appear to have evolved separately multiple times in different species, suggesting an inherent need for greater processing speed in complex social structures.

#### Baron Constantin Alexander von Economo Freiherr von San Serff

A biographical sketch of Baron Constantin Alexander Economo Freiherr von San Serff (1876-1953), a physician and scientist. Born in Romania, he studied engineering and then medicine, working with notable figures like Alois Alzheimer. He became fascinated by flying and aviation. His significant contribution was the discovery of spindle neurons, now known as von Economo neurons (VENs), which are involved in processing neural signals. The article also touches upon encephalitis lethargica, a disease he studied, and speculates that Adolf Hitler may have contracted it in 1918.

Is 'IGNORANT' A Dirty Name?

Paul Schlueter III examines the use and perception of the word "ignorant." He argues that "ignorant" is an adjective describing a lack of knowledge, not an epithet, and criticizes the tendency to misinterpret its meaning in debates. The article discusses how the term can become a "fighting word" when applied to those who are sensitive about their lack of knowledge, contrasting this with the American ideal of equality that can sometimes equate a lack of education with being "just as good as" someone with knowledge. The author concludes that "ignorant" is not a dirty name but a descriptive term, lamenting the belligerent reactions it can provoke.

A VICTORY FOR CRITICAL THINKING: PROGRESS AGAINST HOMEOPATHY IN THIRD WORLD COUNTRIES

This section details the efforts of Voice of Young Science (VoYS), a UK-based organization, in challenging the World Health Organization's (WHO) stance on homeopathy. VoYS, along with early career medics and researchers, penned an open letter to the WHO calling for condemnation of homeopathy for treating serious diseases like TB, infant diarrhea, influenza, malaria, and HIV. The letter highlights that homeopathy does not protect against these diseases and that its promotion in place of effective treatment leads to loss of life. Examples are provided from Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Botswana, where homeopathic practices are being promoted for these serious conditions. The article notes that the WHO has responded by stating it does not recommend homeopathy for these diseases. It also includes a brief mention of the Society of Homeopaths and the UK's Faculty of Homeopathy defending homeopathy and calling for further research.

#### Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann (1755 - 1843)

A biographical profile of Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homeopathy. It details his linguistic proficiency, medical studies, and his development of the principle of "like cures like" based on his self-experimentation with Cinchona bark, which evoked malaria-like symptoms in him.

Moon ice and Moonshine

Tom Napier discusses the potential of hydrogen as a fuel source, particularly in the context of space exploration. While acknowledging hydrogen's potential as a clean fuel, he emphasizes that it is not abundant and requires significant energy to produce from water. The article critiques the promotion of hydrogen as a universal energy source by oil companies. It highlights the challenges of storing hydrogen, especially for space missions, and discusses the concept of "lunar fill-up" where ice on the Moon could be used to produce hydrogen and oxygen for spacecraft fuel. The author also touches upon the alleged properties of "Brown's Gas" and explains why it is less efficient for welding than oxy-acetylene.

Two Paranormal Theories of Residual Hauntings

Don Nigroni presents two paranormal theories to explain residual hauntings: imprint theory and retrocognition theory. Imprint theory suggests that past events leave "imprints" on the environment that can replay under certain conditions. Retrocognition theory posits paranormal knowledge of the past. The article analyzes various issues in judging the plausibility of these theories, including level, lighting, location, fading, and period (styles of dress and language).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning, particularly in the fields of health and science. There is a strong skepticism towards alternative medicine claims, pseudoscientific theories, and unsubstantiated beliefs. The editorial stance favors scientific rigor, transparency in research funding and results, and a rational approach to understanding the world. The publication encourages reader engagement and contributions, fostering a community of critical thinkers.

Phactum, September 2009 issue, Volume 21. This issue features articles on paranormal theories, Pennsylvania's gambling addiction, and the cognitive vulnerabilities of older adults.

Paranormal Theories and Phenomena

The issue begins by exploring paranormal theories, specifically 'imprint theory' and 'retrocognition theory,' in relation to residual hauntings. Imprint theory posits that apparitions are replays of past events, with figures dressed and acting according to their historical period. Retrocognition theory suggests that while past events can be known, cameras would not capture them as they are not physically occurring in the present. The article examines issues related to camera surveillance and observation, questioning how the method of knowing an event affects our understanding of it. It proposes examining cases like the Screaming Lady of Fort Mifflin or the ghost ship HMS DeBraak to evaluate these theories.

Further into the issue, a discussion on unexplained phenomena touches upon sightings of "angels slowly marching and countermarching to and fro in the clouds, their white robes and helmets glistening with a weird light." These sightings, reported in Sussex County, Delaware, and Talbot County, Maryland, involved what appeared to be "bands of soldiers of great size, equipped in dazzling uniforms." The phenomenon is linked to pareidolia, the tendency to perceive meaningful images or sounds in vague stimuli, influenced by individual beliefs. The article references David Hume's observation on the human tendency to project familiar qualities onto external objects, suggesting that such phenomena could be interpreted as divine or extraterrestrial based on cultural context.

Pennsylvania's Gambling Addiction

Natalie C. Rogol's article, "PENNSYLVANIA'S GAMBLING ADDICTION," critically examines the impact of legalized slot machine gambling in Pennsylvania, introduced by Act 71 of 2004. The act, which allows for 61,000 slot machines in 14 casinos, promised significant benefits, including a $1 billion reduction in property taxes. However, the article argues that these promises have not been met. Instead, the licensing of casinos was conducted below market value, costing the state over $2 billion in potential revenue. While school property taxes have increased by an estimated $3 billion since 2004, homeowners are paying an average of $800 more. The article also notes that slots gambling has negatively affected state lottery sales, with a 4.2 percent decrease in counties with casinos and stagnant statewide sales.

The article further criticizes the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, describing it as "costly and susceptible to corruption." The board's six members have a combined salary exceeding $1 million, and the board has incurred significant expenses, including a trip to Italy costing over $30,000, despite a ban on out-of-state travel. The board has also "borrowed" from the Property Tax Relief Fund to cover its operational costs, which exceed $25 million annually.

Concerns are also raised about the board's failure to conduct thorough background checks, leading to embarrassing situations, including hiring an employee charged with murder and another who falsified information. The infamous case of Louis DeNaples, who was awarded a license for the Mount Airy Casino despite facing perjury charges related to organized crime, is highlighted as an example of faulty investigation.

Older Adults and Decision-Making

An article titled "Why So Many Seniors Get Swindled: Brain Anomalies and Poor Decision-making in Older Adults" by Natalie Denburg, Ph.D., discusses research from the Dana Foundation and the National Institute of Health. Dr. Denburg suggests that some older adults experience impaired decision-making due to abnormalities in the brain's prefrontal cortex, which are distinct from Alzheimer's disease. The Iowa Gambling Task (IGT), a computerized psychological test, is used to simulate real-life decision-making. In this task, participants select cards from decks with varying risk-reward profiles. While healthy individuals typically learn to shift towards lower-risk, lower-reward decks over time, older participants in Dr. Denburg's studies were less likely to make this shift. The article notes that older people are often targeted by fraudulent telemarketing firms, with an estimated 14,000 such firms operating in the U.S., 80% of which target older individuals. This targeting of vulnerable individuals is presented as a significant societal problem.

The issue connects this research to the broader theme of gambling addiction, referencing Dr. Gary Lange's article "Will Gamblers Get Out Alive?" and noting the large number of older adults frequenting casinos. It suggests that impaired decision-making in older adults, combined with the powerful addiction of gambling, creates a dangerous situation, exacerbated by the fact that fraudsters are legally permitted to operate.

Gambling Treatment and Recovery

Dr. Gary Lange, Ph.D., in "Will Gamblers Get Out Alive?", addresses the challenges faced by gamblers, particularly those unemployed during economic hard times. He highlights that gambling can be an escape from stress and negative emotions, with calls to gambling helplines increasing significantly. The article points out that compulsive gamblers have significantly higher suicide rates. Lange discusses the concept of "Addiction Plus," where gambling addiction co-occurs with other stressors and psychiatric disorders. He identifies key precipitants of hazardous gambling behavior, including ample free time, available cash, adverse moods, family conflict, and trauma. The article also mentions the availability of online gambling sites, which offer easy access and can exacerbate addictive behaviors. Treatment strategies include recognizing the problem, willingness to change, and employing various therapeutic techniques, with tools like "GamBlock.com" suggested to block online gambling sites.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum revolve around critical examination of societal issues, particularly those involving questionable government policies and their consequences. The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical stance towards official narratives and promises, as seen in its critique of Pennsylvania's gambling legislation and the perceived failures of the Gaming Control Board. There is a strong emphasis on research-backed analysis, with references to scientific studies and expert opinions on topics ranging from paranormal phenomena to cognitive psychology and addiction. The editorial stance seems to advocate for informed public discourse and a critical approach to understanding complex issues, encouraging readers to question official claims and to consider alternative explanations. The inclusion of W.C. Fields quotes at the end of the issue further reinforces a cynical and critical perspective on human behavior and societal dealings.