Phactum - 2009 11 - November

Magazine Overview

Phactum is the newsletter of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT), with the November/December 2009 issue.

Lead Story: Superstition: Belief in the Age of Science

This issue prominently features Dr. Robert L. Park, an emeritus professor of physics at the University of Maryland, who will discuss his book "Superstition: Belief in the Age of Science." The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 21, 2009, at 2:00 PM at the Community College of Philadelphia. Dr. Park is known for his critical commentaries on alternative medicine and pseudoscience, and his opposition to manned space travel. He has authored numerous technical papers and is a Fellow of the American Physical Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. His weekly column, "What's New," discusses science news, space exploration, energy, government in science, pseudoscience, alternative medicine, the creation-evolution controversy, and nuclear weapons. The article notes that Dr. Park has characterized Wikipedia as a target for misuse by "purveyors of pseudoscience" but also finds it indispensable.

Dr. Park's book "Superstition: Belief in the Age of Science" is described as an examination of why people persist in superstition despite scientific evidence to the contrary. It covers supernatural beliefs from religion and the afterlife to New Age spiritualism and faith-based medical claims, and argues that science is the only reliable way of understanding the world. His other book, "Voodoo Science: The Road from Foolishness to Fraud," is also mentioned, defining "voodoo science" as pathological science, junk science, pseudoscience, and fraudulent science, and highlighting his role in promoting scientific rationality.

PhACT Calendar of Events

The newsletter includes an extensive calendar of science-related events in and around Philadelphia for November and December 2009, and early 2010. These events are generally free and open to the public, hosted by various institutions:

• PhACT Meetings: Held at the Community College of Philadelphia, featuring speakers like Dr. Robert L. Park.
• Wagner Free Institute of Science: Offers free science courses for Winter/Spring 2010 on topics such as Fungi and Plants, Evolution in Action, Global Change, Mass Extinctions, and Biodiversity, and Introduction to Pollination Biology and Birding. They also hosted a Family Open House on November 21, 2009, with a presentation on "Naturally Illuminating: The Science Behind Luminescence."
• Chemical Heritage Foundation: Hosts events and exhibits, including Brown Bag Lectures on topics like "Early Flat-Panel Display Research at RCA" and "Perceptions of Groundwater in al-Karaji's 11th-Century 'Treatise on the Extraction of Hidden Waters.'" They also hosted the Ullyot Public Affairs Lecture by Joseph M. DeSimone on green manufacturing and gene therapy.
• Science on Tap: A monthly gathering at National Mechanics featuring informal presentations by scientists. Events included "Embracing Darwin" with Colin Purrington and a talk by Michael McCann on "The Singularity."
• The College of Physicians of Philadelphia: Offers free lectures and programs, including "House of Estrogen: A father's play about strong women," and talks on "The Anatomy Murders" and "Health Care Reform 2009."
• Academy of Natural Sciences: Hosted "An Evening with Polar Explorer Lonnie Dupre."
• Free Library of Philadelphia: Features lectures by authors and academics, such as Adam Gopnik discussing "Angels and Ages: A Short Book about Darwin, Lincoln, and Modern Life," and a presentation on Ken Burns' "The National Parks: America's Best Idea."
• Regol Concerts: Presents The Al Harrison Dixieland Band.
• University of Pennsylvania: The Penn Science Café series at the White Dog Café features discussions on topics ranging from computer science and veterinary medicine to bioethics and psychology.
• Westbrook Lecture 2010: Features Dr. Bonnie Bassler discussing "The Secret Language of Bacteria."

Historical Feature: The Ghostly Drummer of Tedworth

The issue includes a "Letter of the Drum" to the publisher of The Gazette, dated April 23, 1730. The letter recounts a detailed account of a purported haunting at a house in Tedworth, England, in March 1661. The incident began after John Mompesson sued a local drummer. The spirit allegedly drummed loudly, moved objects, threw shoes, and wrestled with servants. The letter writer expresses newfound fear of supernatural phenomena after hearing this account, which was attested to by two Reverend Fathers. The letter questions the timing of the events in relation to theological beliefs about the Devil's activities. The letter also references a story about a curate in Jamaica and a learned Greutzius, to debate the credibility of the Tedworth incident.

Cover Cartoon

The cover features a two-part cartoon by Nick D. Kim. The first panel shows Biggins watching Santa's sleigh crash spectacularly. The second panel shows Biggins lamenting that this event might jeopardize his research funding, implying a connection between superstition and scientific endeavor.

Quotes

The issue includes a quote from Winston Churchill on private enterprise and a powerful quote from Harry S Truman on government silencing opposition and repression. A prominent quote from Martin Luther is also featured on page 6: "Reason is the greatest enemy that faith has; it never comes to the aid of spiritual things, but - more frequently than not - struggles against the divine Word, treating with contempt all that emanates from God."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum are the promotion of science and critical thinking, the debunking of pseudoscience and superstition, and the dissemination of information about scientific and intellectual events in the Philadelphia area. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rationalism and evidence-based reasoning, as exemplified by the focus on Dr. Robert L. Park's work and the inclusion of events that encourage scientific literacy and engagement. The historical piece on the Tedworth drummer and the letter debating its veracity further underscore the newsletter's interest in examining claims critically, even those rooted in folklore or superstition.

Phactum, Nov/Dec 2009 issue, Volume 11. This issue delves into a variety of topics, from philosophical principles of skepticism to contemporary issues in science, health, and social justice. The cover features a "DANGER CONFORMITY HAZARD" warning, suggesting a theme of independent thought and challenging established norms.

Letters to the Editor

The "Letters to the Editor" section opens with a quote from René Descartes' "Discourse on Method," Chapter Two, outlining his four rules for clear thinking. M. Paul Menga of Philadelphia recommends these rules as a framework for skepticism, defining a skeptic as one who questions claims that haven't followed these logical principles. David Leiter of Willow Grove, PA, informs about the Society for Scientific Exploration's new magazine, EdgeScience. Simon Singh of London discusses the campaign to "Keep the Libel Laws Out of Science," advocating for English libel laws to be more like American laws, which are more sympathetic to free speech and public interest coverage.

Various Ruminations

This section, collected and written by Ray Haupt, covers several distinct topics:

Witchcraft in the Age of Science

An Associated Press article from October 19, 2009, reported by CBSNews, highlights the alarming prevalence of witchcraft accusations against children in Nigeria. Pastors in some evangelical Christian sects interpret Exodus 22:18 literally, leading to the accusation and murder of children. Over the last decade, approximately 15,000 children have been accused, and at least 1,000 have been murdered. The article cites specific instances, including a nine-year-old boy forced to drink acid by his father after being denounced by his pastor.

The anti-vaccination controversy

Dr. Paul Offit, a speaker for PhACT, is discussed in the context of the anti-vaccination movement. Despite his work developing vaccines that have saved thousands of lives, he faces condemnation from fearful parents who wrongly believe vaccines cause autism due to a mercury-containing preservative. Dr. Offit, supported by numerous medical studies, insists that vaccines do not cause autism and that the mercury compound is no longer used. The article references a study from the Childood Autism Risks from Genetics and the Environment (CHARGE) study, which found no difference in blood mercury levels between autistic and non-autistic children. It also notes that rubella, a disease preventable by vaccination, can cause severe birth defects in unborn children, and a high rate of autism has been observed in children with congenital rubella.

Alternative Medicine in the United Kingdom

Simon Singh, a science writer, is featured for his libel trial with the British Chiropractic Association (BCA). Singh and Dr. Edzard Ernst questioned chiropractors' ability to treat ailments beyond back problems in their book "Trick or Treatment?" The BCA sued Singh over a Guardian article where he stated that the organization "happily promotes bogus treatments." The article mentions that the BCA has since retracted the term "maliciously attacked" in favor of "libelled," opening the door for a counter-suit. A video link is provided where Singh discusses "diverse quackeries."

Alternative Medicine in Australia

An email from Vicky Hyde of the New Zealand Skeptics introduces Noel Batten, an Australian alternative medicine "healer" with no formal medical training who claims to have cured numerous serious diseases, including cancer, using a homeopathic potion called Oxybeecream. Batten also works as a landscaper and has written numerous online medical books.

High School Science Fairs

PhACT is raising funds to award prizes at the Bucks County Science Research Competition in March 2010. The goal is to raise $300, and $185 has been accumulated so far. The article explains the importance of science fairs in introducing children to science and combating vulnerability to "medical" practitioners and charlatans.

Please Help Quackwatch and Dr. Barrett

Robert S. Baratz, MD, PhD, DDS, appeals for donations to support Dr. Stephen Barrett's work in combating quackery and health fraud. Dr. Barrett, who has led this struggle for over 35 years, publishes the Consumer Health Digest and manages numerous consumer protection websites, including Quackwatch. Quackery promoters have attempted to discredit him through libel and lawsuits. Donations are needed to cover legal fees and the costs of maintaining these valuable consumer resources.

October 2009 Meeting Report

By Tom Napier:

The Large Hadron Collider

Professor Paul Halpern gave a talk on the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), covering 100 years of physics research leading to its development. The LHC, located in a 17-mile circular tunnel under the French countryside, is CERN's latest particle accelerator. Despite a 2008 incident involving a faulty superconducting magnet, repairs have been made, and tests are resuming, albeit at half power initially. The article explains how particle accelerators work, from linear accelerators to circular ones using magnetic fields. It discusses the four fundamental forces of nature, the Higgs Field, and the theoretical Higgs boson, noting that the LHC, while less energetic than the Superconducting Supercollider, could still contribute significantly to discovering the Higgs boson or providing data for new particle theories. The report also touches on the LHC's immense scale, its computer power, and addresses concerns about safety, including the creation of miniature black holes (deemed microscopically small and short-lived) and security at CERN.

Autism's False Prophets: Bad Science, Risky Medicine, and the Search for a Cure

This section reviews Paul A. Offit, MD's book, which challenges the assertion that the MMR vaccine causes autism. The book details how the idea originated from a London researcher and was fueled by parents' beliefs about mercury preservatives. It recounts tragic cases of children harmed by untested alternative therapies. Offit argues that the book exposes the opportunism of those promoting the autism-vaccine link and highlights the exploitation of the autism condition. The review emphasizes that overwhelming scientific evidence confirms vaccine safety and efficacy, refuting the persistent fear among some parents.

Miracles and Science

By Don Nigroni:

This article explores the concept of miracles in relation to science and mechanistic materialism. It posits that a miracle is a divine supernatural occurrence that violates a law of nature. If an event appears to violate a natural law, it could either be a supernatural event or require a revision of the natural law. The author contrasts natural events (explainable by physical laws) with supernatural events (beyond physical explanation). Mechanistic materialists reject the supernatural and occult. The article discusses how extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence, suggesting that natural explanations are generally more plausible than supernatural ones. It uses examples like paranormal levitation and the discovery of unusual creatures (megamouth shark, Loch Ness Monster, Bigfoot) to illustrate the difficulty of proving supernatural events.

Simplicity and Intelligent Design

By Don Nigroni:

This article examines the principle of simplicity, often referred to as Occam's Razor, as a criterion for choosing among competing theories. Simplicity can refer to quantitative parsimony (fewest entities), qualitative parsimony (fewest kinds of things), or elegance. The author suggests that while many skeptics adhere to atheistic mechanistic materialism, a strict adherence to simplicity might lead to the conclusion of intelligent design. Using the analogy of a pocket watch, the article argues that if a complex mechanism appears to be the result of design, then the universe, if it exhibits simplicity, might also be considered a product of intelligent design. It contrasts this with explanations involving astronomical flukes or multiple universes.

PRISONER LITERACY: Does Reading Prevent Crime?

By Paul Schlueter III:

This article discusses the issue of prisoner literacy, particularly in the Pennsylvania state prison system. The author, an incarcerated volunteer literacy tutor, notes the difficulty in obtaining formal statistics but relies on experience and reports. "Functional illiteracy" is defined as the inability to read and write English well enough for basic life tasks, such as filling out job applications or understanding newspaper articles. Data from the National Adult Literacy Survey (NALS) indicates that a significant percentage of inmates are functionally illiterate, far exceeding the rate in the general population. The article highlights the strong link between low literacy levels, high dropout rates from school, and crime. It details Pennsylvania's policies mandating schooling for inmates without proof of a high school diploma or GED, and the challenges faced by functionally illiterate inmates, including those with learning disabilities. The author emphasizes that improving literacy and education, particularly obtaining a GED or college education, significantly reduces recidivism rates. The article concludes with a quote from John Kenneth Galbraith stressing the importance of conquering illiteracy for societal progress.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum include the importance of critical thinking and skepticism in evaluating claims, particularly in the realms of science and alternative medicine. The magazine consistently challenges misinformation and pseudoscience, as seen in the articles on vaccination, alternative therapies, and the critique of chiropractic claims. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based reasoning and the scientific method. The issue also highlights social issues, such as the persecution of children in Nigeria and the critical need for education and literacy, particularly within the prison system. The editorial stance appears to be one that champions scientific integrity, free speech, and the pursuit of knowledge, while actively debunking unfounded beliefs and practices.

This issue of Phactum, dated November/December 2009, features a diverse range of articles, including a deep dive into the world of "Electronic Alchemy: Vacuum Tube Audio" by Paul Schlueter III, an analysis of "Jules Verne: the founder of technobabble" by Tom Napier, and a detailed exploration of "Poe, Probability, and Marie Rogêt" by M. Paul Menga.

Electronic Alchemy: Vacuum Tube Audio

Paul Schlueter III's article contrasts the popular image of alchemists with the modern "magical thinking" surrounding vacuum tube audio enthusiasts. He argues that while tubes have a dedicated cachet, transistors are technically superior in nearly every measurable aspect, including cost, longevity, efficiency, and fidelity. Schlueter attributes the preference for tubes to a subjective auditory effect, specifically their non-linear amplification which enhances "even order" harmonics, creating a pleasing sound that audiophiles mistakenly perceive as superior. He debunks the notion that "ancient wisdom is superior to modern science," stating that tube distortion, while subjectively pleasing, is less linear and can be less desirable than transistor distortion, which can be more harsh and out of tune to the ear. The article traces the history of amplification, noting how engineers have long sought to reduce distortion, but how musicians discovered the appeal of deliberately overdriving tube amps, leading to a persistent mythology.

Jules Verne: The Founder of Technobabble

Tom Napier examines Jules Verne's legacy, particularly his use of technical detail in science fiction. Verne was the first author to make a living writing adventures based on improbable scenarios, and his novels are filled with technical descriptions. Napier questions whether this detail represents real science or "technobabble" – a blend of scientific-sounding terms that obscure the actual means of achieving goals. He analyzes Verne's "Five Weeks in a Balloon," highlighting the implausible electrical power source and the concept of a "Buntzen battery" capable of immense power output. The article also discusses Verne's ideas on electrolysis for producing hydrogen and oxygen, noting how this concept has been embraced by modern free-energy promoters. Napier points out that Verne's scientific blunders often reflect the common beliefs of his time or his unfamiliarity with astrophysics, but that his skill lay in weaving engrossing stories, sometimes at the expense of factual accuracy. The article also touches upon Verne's ideas on space travel and the concept of weightlessness.

Poe, Probability, and Marie Rogêt

M. Paul Menga's article uses Edgar Allan Poe's "The Mystery of Marie Rogêt" as a springboard to discuss the fundamentals of probability. The essay begins by referencing the real-life case of Mary Cecilia Rogers, whose unsolved murder inspired Poe's fictionalized investigation. Menga delves into Poe's analytical approach and his discussion of the "Calculus of Probabilities." The article critically examines Poe's assertion that after two throws of sixes, one should have special reasons to doubt a third throw of sixes, arguing that Poe is mistaken and that individual dice throws are independent events. Menga explains the concepts of a priori and a posteriori probability, emphasizing the importance of defining a sample space and ensuring that outcomes are equally likely. He illustrates these concepts with examples involving coin flips and dice throws, demonstrating how to calculate probabilities and highlighting common errors, such as the gambler's fallacy. The article also introduces the three axioms of probability and their role in formalizing calculations. Menga concludes by showing how the ratio of probabilities for specific dice throw patterns remains constant, providing a nuanced answer to Poe's musings.

Biographical Notes and Quotes

The issue includes a biographical note on Sir John Ambrose Fleming, the inventor of the thermionic valve (vacuum tube) and a key figure in the birth of modern electronics. He is also noted for his involvement in the Evolution Protest Movement. Several quotes are featured, including one from Benjamin Franklin on writing and action, Gordon Brown on the importance of reading, and Dr. Seuss on the power of knowledge gained through reading.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of technology, science, and popular belief, often with a critical and skeptical eye. There's a recurring theme of examining historical technological concepts and their modern relevance, questioning established myths, and applying logical reasoning to complex subjects. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous analysis, empirical evidence, and a distrust of unsubstantiated claims, particularly in areas like audio technology and probability. The publication encourages readers to think critically and "use your reasoning skills, your skeptical BS detector" when evaluating information.

Title: Phactum
Issue: Nov / Dec 2009
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Phactum, the propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, covers topics related to probability and a critical examination of alternative medicine.

Probability and Poe

The first section of the magazine discusses the concept of probability, referencing the book "Fundamentals of Probability" by Saeed Ghahramani. It highlights how probability theorems are derived from axioms and touches upon counting principles. The text also references Edgar Allan Poe's work, suggesting a connection between variations in facts and significant miscalculations, quoting Poe: "... it should be considered that the most trifling variation in the facts of the two cases might give rise to the most important miscalculations, by diverting thoroughly the two courses of events; very much as, in arithmetic, an error which, in its own individuality, may be inappreciable, produces at length, by dint of multiplication at all points of the process, a result enormously at variance with truth ...". Several references are provided, including E. O. Wilson's "Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge", Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, Christopher Hitchens' "God is Not Great", and "Introduction to Probability and Statistics" by Lipschutz and Schiller.

M. Paul Menga, a freelance writer and programmer, is mentioned with a quote from his high school yearbook: "Use your illusions!", contrasted with his current proposal: "Lose your illusions!".

Book Review: Trick or Treatment: The Undeniable Facts about Alternative Medicine

The issue features a review of the book "Trick or Treatment: The Undeniable Facts about Alternative Medicine" by Simon Singh and Edzard Ernst. Published by W.W. Norton & Co., the book examines alternative therapies such as acupuncture, homeopathy, chiropractic, and herbal medicine. Singh, known for "Fermat's Last Theorem," and Ernst, a professor of complementary medicine, aim for objectivity but conclude that most of these therapies are "largely worthless." The review notes that while patients may experience improvement with alternative remedies, the rate is no higher than with a placebo. Exceptions are noted for some herbal remedies like St. John's wort and echinacea, which can be helpful, and chiropractors who can relieve low back pain under certain circumstances. The book is described as a stimulating and informative account that explores evidence-based medicine, clinical trials, and ethical issues, though it may not convince staunch believers in alternative treatments.

Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)

The magazine includes information about PhACT, expressing gratitude to the Community College of Philadelphia and Dr. David Cattell for hosting their events. PhACT distributes Phactum six times a year and organizes talks on educational topics.

Membership options are detailed: $15 for a one-year membership with email delivery of Phactum, $25 for US Mail delivery, and $10 for students (email only). Donations are also welcomed.

Contributions for the PhACT's High School Science Fair 2010 Prize Fund are solicited, with a goal of $300.00, of which $185.00 had been collected. Funds raised beyond the 2010 goal will be applied to the 2011 Prize Fund or other youth science education projects.

Editorial and Contact Information

Letters, ideas, essays, and other submissions can be sent to Ray Haupt, Phactum editor, at [email protected]. The "Policy For Article Use" section states that materials originating in Phactum may be reprinted by groups recognized in CSI's international network of skeptics organizations, provided attribution is given to the author and PhACT. Permission from the original publisher is required for materials from other sources.

The PhACT Council for 2009 is listed, including Eric Krieg (President), Bob Glickman (Secretary), Wes Powers (Webmaster), Ray Haupt (Treasurer), Mike Caro, Dr. David Cattell, Dr. David Cragin, Tom Napier, Harry Rothwell, and Becky Strickland. The PhACT website is www.phact.org.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the rigorous examination of claims through probability and evidence-based medicine, a skeptical approach to alternative therapies, and the promotion of critical thinking and science education within the community. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific evidence and against unsubstantiated claims, as demonstrated by the review of "Trick or Treatment" and the general focus of PhACT.