Phactum - 2010 01 - January

Magazine Overview

Phactum, January 2010 issue, is the newsletter of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT). It features a cover story on distinguishing paranormal 'orbs' from dust, a calendar of upcoming events, and various articles and letters on science, history, and critical thinking.

Cover Story: Orbs or Dust? A Practical Guide to False-Positives

The lead article announces an upcoming PhACT meeting on Saturday, January 16, 2010, featuring Kenneth Biddle, founder of PIRA (Paranormal Investigators & Research Association). Biddle will discuss how to differentiate between genuine paranormal phenomena and natural explanations for 'orbs' often seen in photographs. The article highlights PIRA's objectives: to investigate paranormal claims using common sense and critical thinking, to test devices claiming to capture paranormal activity, and to educate the public about false claims.

The cover also features a photograph taken by Alfred Erpel around 2002, showing PhACT President Eric Krieg and Skeptic Magazine publisher Dr. Michael Shermer at an event. The photo includes a mysterious 'orb,' prompting questions about its origin – spirit, dust, or camera artifact. The location is noted as being near the site of Benjamin Franklin's legendary Kite and Key Experiment, with a bar named 'The Kite and Key' at the purported experiment site.

PhACT Calendar

The newsletter includes a detailed calendar of events hosted or endorsed by PhACT and related organizations in the Philadelphia area:

• Dr. David Cattell hosts PhACT meetings on the third Saturday of most months at Community College of Philadelphia. Parking is $3.50.
• January 16, 2010: Kenneth Biddle speaks on "Orbs or Dust? A Practical Guide to False-Positives."
• February 20, 2010: Ted Goertzel of Rutgers University will speak on "Conspiracy Theories in Science" and the global warming email scandal.
• March 20, 2010: TBA.
• January 13, 2010: Dr. William Grassie presents "The Economics of Religion and the Religion of Economics" at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. The talk explores economic growth, social technologies, the impact of religion on economics, and theories like Max Weber's Protestant Ethic and Karl Marx's views.
• January 16, 2010: The Secular Book Club discusses Dava Sobel's "Galileo's Daughter: A Historical Memoir of Science, Faith, and Love" at Barnes and Noble.
• January 23, 2010: A "Records Unearthed: A Genealogist's Workshop" is held at an unspecified location, with sessions on genealogy research and a guided tour of Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• January 26, 2010: Adrienne Mayor discusses her book "The Poison King: The Life and Legend of Mithradates" at the University of Pennsylvania Museum.
• April 10, 2010: A presentation on "TITANIC'S FLOATERS: Recovery, Preparation, and Disposition" is held, focusing on the 98 passengers destined for Pennsylvania and the commemoration of the Titanic's sinking at Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• Chemical Heritage Foundation events include a Nanomedicine Terminology Workshop and ongoing exhibitions on alchemy.
• Wagner Free Institute of Science offers free science courses for Winter/Spring 2010, including "Fungi and Plants," "Evolution in Action," "Global Change, Mass Extinctions, and Biodiversity," and "Introduction to Pollination Biology."
• Lectures at various institutions include topics like "Stories Behind the Species: Animals at Risk," "I Am One of You: The Secret Language of Bacteria," and "Silent, Weird, Beautiful: Philadelphia's City Hall and It's Architect."
• Penn Science Café hosts discussions on topics such as DNA Banks, Quantum Computing, Bioethics, Viral Evolution, and Cognitive Processes.
• The College of Physicians of Philadelphia offers lectures on "Ethics in Medical Education," "Gambling and Recovery Forum," and "Imperialism and the Family Business."
• Medical Film Symposium is held from January 20-23, 2010, exploring the history and ethical implications of medical film.

Science on Tap

This monthly gathering in Philadelphia features informal presentations by scientists. The January 11, 6:00 PM event is "The Origin and Evolution of Beer" by Ernie Schuyler of the Academy of Natural Sciences. The February 8, 6:00 PM event is "Imperialism and the Family Business: Population Structure and Political Change on the Central Coast of Peru" by Lori Jahnke.

Various Ruminations

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

• Annular Solar Eclipse of January 15: The newsletter notes that an annular solar eclipse will occur on January 15, 2010, visible in Africa, the Indian Ocean, and eastern Asia. It briefly explains the four types of solar eclipses: partial, annular, total, and hybrid.
• Thales of Miletus: The section references Dr. Robert Park's lecture and Thales' prediction of a solar eclipse in 585 BC, which reportedly stopped a battle between the Medes and Lydians.
• Mammoth Meat: PhACT member Paul Menga mused on the possibility of eating frozen woolly mammoth meat, citing internet searches that suggest it was consumed in 1951 by the Explorer's Club. Another article discusses a new strain of bacteria discovered in frozen mammoth that reportedly rejuvenated mice.
• Refrigerator Magnets: PhACT member Bruce Clark's business of making refrigerator magnets of roadside signs and historical markers is mentioned.
• Elvis Presley's Middle Name: A trivia fact notes that King's middle name was Aaron.
• Philadelphia Founding: A historical marker notes Philadelphia was founded by William Penn in 1682 and served as Pennsylvania's capital until 1799.

Dangerous Cell Phones

Mayor Gavin Newsom of San Francisco is endorsing a proposal to require radiation labels for cell phones. The article notes that scientists disagree on whether cell phone radiation poses a health hazard, and the FCC deems all legally sold phones safe. The author expresses skepticism about the cell phone cancer controversy, comparing it to past scares about power lines.

Improve Your Memory With Ginkgo Biloba

A new study released in JAMA claims that Ginkgo Biloba does not help improve memory or reduce Alzheimer's effects. The article provides links to the study and comments from Dr. Steven Novella.

Lunch time at the Mutter Museum

A YouTube video of Dr. Robert Hicks feeding pet leeches at the Mutter Museum is shared, encouraging readers to visit the museum.

Historic Mansions in Philadelphia's Fairmount Park

PhACT member Christine Mifsud is recognized for organizing an arts contest and exhibition on Fairmount Park's historic mansions.

Letters to the Editor

• Anonymous (an ancient Greek philosopher) shares a method to solve an age-old problem, which the editor finds humorous.
• Paul Schlueter III thanks Phactum for its informative content and inquires about a document format for "Prisoner Literacy."
• Jim Bergin and Judy Garvey from Blue Hill, Maine, request information on a previous essay and advocate for corrections officials to continue academic programs.
• Howard J. Wilk from Philadelphia shares an article from The New Yorker about criminal profilers, questioning their efficacy compared to psychics.
• Lynn DeWees from Pottstown, PA, contributes a poem about chiropractors.
• Editor's Note: The editor acknowledges the letters and notes that the essay mentioned by Jim Bergin has been shared with other groups.

Climate Change Discussion

One letter to the editor argues that the media's focus on carbon dioxide (CO2) in relation to global warming is politically motivated. The author contends that water vapor (H2O) has a significantly greater heat retention capacity, citing calculations that suggest H2O's capacity is 251 times greater than CO2's. The letter also points out that H2O's effect is concentrated at the Earth's surface and that cloud cover significantly impacts temperature. The author advocates for clean energy technologies but criticizes the use of "lies and bad or false science" to promote an agenda.

Music Industry Commentary

Paul Schlueter III from Dallas, PA, comments on the current state of the music industry, drawing a parallel to a 1922 ban on broadcasting records. He notes the ongoing struggles between record companies, music publishers, and internet music providers, predicting that the industry will eventually find ways to profit from internet music sales, similar to how radio became intertwined with recordings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum include critical thinking applied to paranormal claims, the intersection of science and society, historical events and figures, and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific methodology, evidence-based reasoning, and a critical examination of popular beliefs, as evidenced by the articles on 'orbs,' conspiracy theories, and the discussion on climate change. The newsletter also serves as a platform for local community events and discussions relevant to a scientifically-minded audience in Philadelphia.

Phactum, January 2010 issue. This issue features a diverse range of articles, including scientific critique, evolutionary biology, addiction treatment, alternative medicine, and paranormal phenomena.

Articles

Denialism: How Irrational Thinking Hinders Scientific Progress, Harms the Planet, and Threatens Our Lives by Michael Specter

This article reviews Michael Specter's book, which argues that Americans increasingly mistrust science, viewing it as a political constituency rather than a source of beneficial information. Specter highlights examples like African nations rejecting genetically modified grains and protests against childhood vaccines. He contends that this trend is a "war against progress" and calls for a revival of an approach to the physical world based on understanding and experiment.

Secundum Artem: Selected works of art and design from the University collections

This section describes an exhibition at the Marvin Samson Center for the History of Pharmacy, showcasing over 150 objects related to pharmacy and science from the last 300 years. The exhibition explores items manufactured "secundum artem," meaning according to the art or practice of their makers, blurring the lines between utilitarian and decorative functions. Examples include 17th-century apothecary jars and 19th-century German botanical panels.

"Lucy's Aunt, Ardi" by Paul Schlueter III

This article discusses the discovery of "Ardi" (Ardipithecus ramicus), a fossil species considered a predecessor to "Lucy" (Australopithecus afarensis). Ardi, dated to 4.4 million years ago, is described as having a mix of apelike and monkeylike traits suitable for both tree climbing and upright walking. The article contrasts Ardi's size with Lucy's and notes that Ardi's skeleton lacks traits for hanging from branches or knuckle-walking, suggesting a transitional form close to the hominid-great ape split.

"I'll bet I can be nicer than you." By Dr. Gary Lange

Dr. Gary Lange recounts his experience as an English-speaking "expert" at the UCan International Gambling conference in Seoul, South Korea, and later in Japan. He describes the exceptional hospitality and "service" received in South Korea, where he shared strategies for treating problem gamblers. He also visited addiction and gambling treatment programs in Japan, including a residential program in Yokohama. Lange emphasizes the importance of respecting other cultures and highlights the challenges of treating pathological gambling, especially in Korea where most forms of gambling are illegal.

"Discover the Power of Magnets!" By Tom Napier

Tom Napier, a self-described skeptic and physicist, critically examines magnetic therapy products, specifically a "Magnetic Bracelet with copper" advertised for various health benefits. He notes the disclaimer "Not for use by pregnant women or individuals fitted with cardiac pacemakers and/or internal automatic defibrillators. No health or medical claims expressed or implied," while also pointing out that the product's claims imply medical benefits. Napier questions the potential danger of strong magnets to credit cards and medical devices.

Drexel promotes junk science By Robert Hart

Robert Hart criticizes Drexel University for offering a class on qigong, a Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) treatment. He argues that CAM disciplines often lack rigorous scientific research and evidence, with studies showing little effect compared to placebo. Hart contends that qigong, based on concepts like "life force" or "personal energy" (qi or chi), cannot qualify as science due to its poorly defined and untestable nature. He urges Drexel to promote evidence-based medicine instead of unproven treatments.

Falsification By Don Nigroni

This article explores the difference between science and philosophy, focusing on the concept of falsification. Nigroni argues that empirical theories, even those seemingly certain like the geocentric model, can be wrong. He posits that science cannot definitively confirm or disconfirm theories, citing the example of observing white swans not proving all swans are white. Nigroni suggests that while we can never directly know noumena, we should use good sense in selecting theories while maintaining an open mind.

Of the Subconscious and Coincidence By M. Paul Menga

Menga recounts an experience where he consciously tried to recall the name of an old rapper and, upon entering a record store, the name "Tupac" immediately came to mind, appearing on a placard. He explores the interplay between the subconscious, conscious mind, and sensory input, referencing "Consciousness: a User's Guide" by Adam Zeman. The article touches on the ongoing scientific research into the mind and consciousness.

Human Memory and the Paranormal By Don Nigroni

Don Nigroni discusses the shift in understanding memory storage from an enigmatic storehouse to being mysteriously stored in the brain. This change has implications for paranormal phenomena like ghosts, mediums, reincarnation, and out-of-body experiences (OBEs). Nigroni argues that if memories are brain-dependent, then departed minds separated from their physical bodies should not be able to communicate or remember their past. He suggests that beliefs in paranormal phenomena often rest on outdated assumptions.

On Catching Colds and Catarrhs TO BENJAMIN RUSH

This is a letter dated July 14, 1773, from Benjamin Franklin to Benjamin Rush. Franklin discusses a pamphlet he received and expresses hope for the advancement of liberty. He mentions forwarding a packet to M. Dubourg, who is translating his book into French. Franklin shares his thoughts on the cause of colds and catarrhs, questioning Dr. Cullen's theory of "cold" as a cause and suggesting that putridity from stagnant air and excessive living with little exercise are more likely culprits. He also notes that dampness alone does not cause colds, citing examples of people in wet environments who do not catch colds.

WHO'S THE MONKEY'S UNCLE? by Paul Schlueter III

This article examines human genetic heritage and evolution, refuting the creationist argument about monkey grandparents. It explains that a human generation is primarily limited by female fertility and defines a generation as approximately 20 years. The author highlights the compressed advancement of human knowledge over the last 8 generations. Using geneticists' formulas, the article estimates that humans and chimpanzees diverged about 6 million years ago. It mentions various hominid species like Australopithecines and Homo Erectus, and notes that Neanderthals were likely not direct ancestors of modern humans. The article concludes by stating that while humans share 98% of their genome with chimps, the 2% difference is significant.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance, particularly towards pseudoscientific claims and unsubstantiated beliefs. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based reasoning, scientific methodology, and skepticism towards phenomena that lack empirical support. The editorial stance appears to favor rational thought, scientific progress, and a critical examination of societal trends that may undermine these principles, as seen in the articles on science denial and the critique of qigong. The inclusion of historical perspectives, such as the letter from Benjamin Franklin, and discussions on evolution and human origins, suggest an interest in both scientific understanding and the history of ideas.

Phactum, January 2010, Volume 21, is a publication of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking. This issue features articles on human evolution, the Pennsylvania prison system, the distinction between analog and digital audio devices, and an analysis of frivolous lawsuits.

Evolution and Shared Ancestry

The first article, "Phactum," discusses the concept of Mitochondrial Eve, an abstraction representing the common female ancestor of all modern humans, estimated to have lived 100-200,000 years ago in Eastern Africa. The author clarifies that humans have not evolved 'farther' than other species like chimpanzees, but rather 'differently,' and that all life on Earth, from lemurs to dogs to fish, shares a common ancestor and has evolved along its own unique path. The piece advocates for appreciating the diversity of life and our common heritage, suggesting "we truly are not alone."

Pennsylvania's Prison System and 'Bizarro' Logic

An article titled "Bizarro" by William DiMascio, executive director of the Pennsylvania Prison Society, critiques the state's approach to prison overcrowding. Despite severe revenue shortages and an insistence on cutting spending, the Department of Corrections was seeking to house inmates in out-of-state cells, a move estimated to cost tens of millions of dollars. The author labels this logic as 'bizarro,' comparing it to going out for dinner after losing one's job. The state's prison population is swelling, with projections indicating it will exceed capacity by 2013. The article argues for alternatives to incarceration, such as community-based treatment programs for non-violent offenders and those with mental health issues, and suggests reforms to parole violation policies. It emphasizes that prisons should be reserved for individuals who pose a danger to society.

"Sham 'DIGITAL' Devices"

This article by Paul Schlueter III addresses a common advertising gimmick where audio products are marketed as "Digital" when they are essentially analog devices. The author defines 'digital' in electronics as a signal that is 'sampled' rapidly and processed by microchips, requiring a power supply and often indicating a 'sampling rate.' He explains that passive devices (lacking a power supply) and those without a specified sampling frequency are analog. Crucially, he points out that analog devices are generally compatible with digital audio equipment, and consumers do not need to buy new accessories like headphones or antennas. The article advises consumers to "TRY THE OLD ANALOG EQUIVALENT FIRST" before falling for marketing ploys.

Attempted Robbery By Lawsuit

By Professor I. Nelson Rose, this article analyzes frivolous lawsuits, particularly in the context of casinos. It uses the case of Mark A. Merrill, who robbed two banks and then sued Donald Trump and the Trump Casino, alleging that the casino's encouragement of his compulsive gambling led him to commit the crimes. The author explains the "American Rule" where the losing party typically does not pay the winner's attorney fees, making it low-risk for plaintiffs to file suits. He outlines common defense strategies for casinos, including checking for procedural mistakes and filing motions to dismiss. The article highlights that prisoners are a significant source of lawsuits due to their ample free time and access to law libraries. It concludes that casinos are often seen as 'deep pockets' and lack sympathy from juries, making them targets for such suits.

Other Content

The issue also includes a brief mention of Ulysses Simpson Grant, a quote about separating church and state attributed to Paul Schlueter III, and information about the Delaware Valley Science Fairs and the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, including membership and donation details. A book advertisement for "Internet Gaming Law: Second Edition" by I. Nelson Rose and Martin D. Owens Jr. is also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phactum, as the propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, consistently promotes critical analysis and skepticism towards misleading information, whether in advertising, legal arguments, or societal norms. The magazine advocates for rational thought, evidence-based reasoning, and reform in areas such as the criminal justice system. The editorial stance appears to be one of informed skepticism, encouraging readers to question claims and seek factual understanding, particularly concerning scientific concepts, legal practices, and consumer information.