Phactum - 2010 02 - February

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: February 2010
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Focus: Critical thinking, science, skepticism, and related events.

Main Feature: Conspiracy Theories in Science

The February 2010 issue of Phactum prominently features a discussion on "Conspiracy Theories in Science" by Dr. Ted Goertzel, Professor of Sociology at Rutgers University. The event, hosted by Dr. David Cattell of the Community College of Philadelphia, took place on Saturday, February 20, 2010. Dr. Goertzel's talk was set to address claims on both sides of the global warming issue, including censorship, and to discuss conspiracy belief in general. The article notes that conspiracy theory is a rich topic, encompassing both malevolent political intrigues and harmless events like UFO claimants or surprise parties. The event was free and open to the public, held at the Center for Business and Industry.

Book Review: Cradles of Eminence

A review highlights "Cradles of Eminence: Childhoods of More Than 700 Famous Men and Women" by Victor Goertzel, Mildred Goertzel, Ted Goertzel, and Ariel Hansen. This updated edition explores common childhood experiences of eminent adults, finding that many disliked school, valued education, had strong mothers, and felt different from others. Key findings include ambitious parents, unconventional parental opinions, and dominant mothers. The book is available for $16.47.

PhACT Calendar and Upcoming Events

The magazine includes a detailed calendar of events hosted or sponsored by PhACT and related organizations, primarily in the Philadelphia area, spanning from February to May 2010.

Key Events Mentioned:

• February 10, 2010: Lecture on "Pierre Teilhard de Chardin: The China years" by Kathleen Duffey at Chestnut Hill College.
• February 12, 2010: Delaware Valley Mensa General Membership Meeting on "The Economy, Financial Investments, and Tax Change" with Edward Marden.
• February 13-14, 2010: "'Til Death Do Us Part: The Love Stories of Laurel Hill Cemetery" walking tour and "Valentine's Day with the Jameson Sisters" music event.
• February 20, 2010: The main PhACT meeting with Dr. Ted Goertzel on "Conspiracy Theories in Science."
• February 23, 2010: "Awakening The Dreamer, Changing The Dream" Symposium at The Academy of Natural Sciences.
• February 24, 2010: Lecture on "Game-Changing Advances in Medicine" at The Franklin Institute, featuring research on gene therapy and autism.
• March 4, 2010: Lecture on "Stories Behind the Species: Animals at Risk" by Dr. Scott McRobert.
• March 5, 2010: Lecture by Lisa Anne Auerbach on "Pass It On" at the APS Museum.
• March 9, 2010: Lecture on "Ethics, Turning a Job Into a Profession" by John Baird.
• March 18, 2010: Urban Sustainability Forum on Building Codes.
• March 19, 2010: Philadelphia Area Colloquium on the History of Science, Technology and Medicine.
• March 20, 2010: PhACT meeting (TBA).
• March 23, 2010: Lecture on "Charles Darwin the Experimental Botanist" by Karen Snetselaar.
• March 26, 2010: Lecture on "The Architectural Ethics of Frank Furness" by Michael J. Lewis.
• April 10, 2010: "Titanic's Floaters: Recovery, Preparation, and Disposition" event at Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• April 14, 2010: Metanexus Lecture "God and the Dinosaurs" by Peter Dodson.
• April 17, 2010: PhACT meeting (TBA).
• April 24, 2010: 3rd Annual Natural History Road Show.
• May 1, 2010: Public Paranormal Investigation of Eastern State Penitentiary.
• May 10, 2010: Annual Cheryl Beth Silverman Memorial Lecture featuring Dr. Sylvia Earle.

Other Series Mentioned:

• Wagner Free Institute of Science: Offers free science courses and lectures on topics like "Global Change, Mass Extinctions, and Biodiversity," "Introduction to Pollination Biology," and "Introduction to Birding."
• Science on Tap: A monthly gathering at National Mechanics for discussions on science topics.
• The College of Physicians of Philadelphia: Offers lectures and programs, including "Ethics, Turning a Job Into a Profession" and the "Philadelphia Area Colloquium in the History of Science, Technology and Medicine."
• APS Museum: Features events related to Darwin, including lectures and family-friendly afternoons.
• Penn Science Café: A lecture series held at the MarBar, covering topics in history, sociology, computer science, and psychology.
• Chemical Heritage Foundation: Hosts Brown Bag Lectures on topics such as Isaac Newton's alchemical papers, physics, and art history, as well as exhibits on alchemy.
• Zwaanendael Museum: Features exhibits on Delaware's history, including the Swanendael settlement and the War of 1812.

Letters to the Editor

This section includes correspondence from readers. One letter discusses a British press story about ancient sites forming triangular formations, linking it to potential alien influence. Another letter shares a link to a lengthy paper analyzing the Climategate analysis. A third letter provides a follow-up on the "Ardi" fossil (Ardipithecus ramidus), discussing the controversy surrounding its placement in human evolution, the debate over canine tooth size and its implications for behavior, and the lack of opposable thumbs. It also mentions other early hominid discoveries like Sahelanthropus tchadensis and Orrorin tugenensis, noting that Ardi may not be the earliest hominid.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly in areas like conspiracy theories and pseudoscience. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based reasoning and objective analysis, as evidenced by the focus on scientific events, lectures, and discussions. The inclusion of diverse scientific topics, from evolutionary biology and medicine to environmental science and the history of science, reflects a broad interest in intellectual exploration. The publication serves as a community hub for individuals interested in these subjects, providing information on local events and fostering discussion.

Title: Phactum
Issue: February 2010
Volume: 12
Publisher: PhACT
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Phactum, titled 'Various Ruminations,' presents a collection of articles and observations from various contributors, focusing on skeptical inquiry, critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscientific claims. The magazine tackles diverse subjects ranging from social issues within prisons to the technicalities of photography and proposed calendar reforms.

Numeracy in Prison

Paul Schlueter III, following up on a previous discussion about prison illiteracy, addresses the issue of 'numeracy' among inmates. He highlights the significant social problem of illiteracy and its link to criminal behavior and recidivism. Schlueter notes that many prisoners are released with little improvement in their ability to read or write. His Google search on 'prisoner' and 'numeracy' revealed a surprising lack of US-centric information, with more results originating from the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, a disparity he finds glaring.

Homeopathic Advantage!

Vicki Hyde, Chair-entity of New Zealand Skeptics, contributes a piece highlighting the perceived absurdity of homeopathic practices. She references an incident where Billy Joel's daughter survived a suicide attempt by overdosing on homeopathic 'medication.' Hyde explains that homeopathy relies on massive dilutions and a belief in water's memory, and she argues that its inefficacious nature could be considered 'suicidal' when used to treat disease.

Dowsing for Landmines

Tom Napier reports on the case of James McCormick, who was charged with fraud in Britain for selling bomb-detecting dowsing rods to the Iraqi Army for substantial sums, reportedly up to $60,000 per unit. The article notes that ATSC Ltd., McCormick's company, marketed these devices, which experts claim lack any electronic circuitry and operate on the principle of 'electrostatic magnetic ion attraction.' Despite the Iraqi government paying between $40,000 and $60,000 per unit, ATSC was marketing them for $16,000. The failure of these devices has allegedly led to thousands of deaths. The article includes links to a BBC video report and a James Randi video on the subject.

Pendulum Dowsing

Napier also touches upon other forms of dowsing, including 'Pendulum Dowsing for Chakras,' which he finds to be a concept that detects 'even that which does not exist.' He mentions that Ken Biddle, a speaker at a PhACT meeting, had displayed dowsing equipment used by ghost hunters, which, not surprisingly, does not work.

The MMR Vaccine Flap: Vaccine scaremonger slammed

This section addresses the controversy surrounding the MMR vaccine, largely fueled by claims made by British physician Dr. Andrew Wakefield. Dr. Stephen Barret reports that questions have arisen regarding Wakefield's financial practices and research. The British General Medical Council (GMC) found Wakefield acted dishonestly and irresponsibly in a study linking the MMR vaccine to autism and bowel problems. Subsequent studies found no connection, yet sensational publicity led to a drop in immunization rates. Ten of the study's authors renounced their conclusions, and the editor of The Lancet noted Wakefield's links to litigation against vaccine manufacturers as a 'fatal conflict of interest.' The GMC also investigated Wakefield for improperly recruiting patients, paying them to give blood specimens, and performing inappropriate tests. He was also criticized for failing to disclose a patent for a competing vaccine. The GMC concluded that these allegations could amount to 'serious professional misconduct.' Wakefield relocated to Austin, Texas, where he helped found Thoughtful House Center for Children, a clinic that offers unsubstantiated autism treatments, with his salary listed as $270,000 in 2008.

USS Philadelphia returning from last mission

An Inquirer Staff Report notes the return of the attack submarine USS Philadelphia (SSN 690) from its last deployment, marking the end of 33 years of service. The submarine was involved in operations in the U.S. Central Command area and made port calls in Scotland, Bahrain, and Gibraltar.

Conspiracy Theories

This editorial piece reflects on how many items in the 'Ruminations' section, and in skeptical newsletters generally, involve conspiracy theories, even seemingly harmless ones like pendulum dowsing. It suggests that this is a common theme in skeptical discourse.

January 2010 Meeting Report

By Becky Strickland, this report covers the January meeting featuring Ken Biddle, founder of the Paranormal Investigators and Research Association (PIRA). Biddle's investigations are presented as examples of the scientific method. The report discusses how camera lens phenomena, such as light reflections, dust, pollen, and moisture, can be misinterpreted as ghosts or orbs. Biddle's work involves attempting to recreate such effects using prosaic methods, and he has succeeded in explaining many alleged paranormal images as natural phenomena or deliberate fakes. He remains open to the possibility of ghosts but relies on scientific evidence.

Why the camera sometimes lies.

By Tom Napier, this article delves into the technical aspects of photography that can lead to misinterpretations of images, particularly those alleged to be ghosts. Napier explains concepts like focal length, depth of field, aperture (f-number), spherical aberration, and chromatic aberration. He details how lens characteristics, internal reflections, and the camera's iris (which can create hexagonal or octagonal apertures) can produce unusual images. He also discusses how light entering a lens can reflect off internal surfaces, creating 'lens flares' that can resemble hexagonal objects, and how out-of-focus points of light can appear as 'orbs.' The article emphasizes the importance of understanding these photographic principles to avoid misinterpreting images.

"Numeracy Among Prisoners"

By Paul Schlueter III, this article expands on the theme of numeracy among inmates. Schlueter, drawing from his direct experience, discusses the spectrum of educational levels among prisoners, from those with no formal education to those with college degrees. He defines numeracy as familiarity with numbers, their uses, and manipulation. While inmates often demonstrate practical counting skills, they struggle with abstract numerical concepts, particularly those related to fractions and theoretical explanations in math. He notes that math is often one of the first subjects to lose students' comprehension. Schlueter argues that a lack of basic numeracy skills, particularly abstract thinking, hinders inmates from obtaining a GED and fitting into the workplace after release. He also touches upon the 'anti-intellectual' bias that can exist against helping inmates progress beyond basic functional math skills.

"A Rational Calendar"

By Paul Schlueter III, this article proposes a new calendar system. Schlueter suggests starting the year on the winter solstice, dividing it into 10 months (named numerically), and having months with 36.5 days, or more practically, odd months with 37 days and even months with 36 days. He also proposes six-day weeks and a standardized date format (year-month-day). He believes this system would be more rational than the Gregorian calendar and would provide opportunities for industries to redesign calendars and watches.

Observations on the prevailing Doctrines of Life and Death.

This section features a letter translated from M. Dubourg's edition of Benjamin Franklin's Works. Franklin responds to observations on the causes of death and experiments for reviving those apparently killed by lightning. He discusses the limited understanding of life and death, citing examples of animals like toads and turtles surviving for extended periods without nourishment. Franklin recounts an experiment where drowned flies were revived by the sun, expressing a desire to invent a method for embalming drowned persons to be recalled to life in the future. He concludes by expressing anticipation for a promised experiment involving the resurrection of a fowl or turkey cock.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum are skepticism, critical thinking, and the examination of claims through a scientific lens. The magazine consistently challenges pseudoscientific beliefs, exposes fraud, and educates readers on the scientific principles behind phenomena often misinterpreted. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting rational inquiry and debunking unfounded claims, encouraging readers to question extraordinary assertions and rely on evidence-based reasoning. The inclusion of a quote from Isaiah Berlin at the bottom of page 11 underscores the magazine's emphasis on curiosity and intellectual engagement.

Phactum, February 2010 issue, features a cover story titled "Gambling and the Law®: Pathological Poker" by Professor I. Nelson Rose. The issue also includes articles on the history of prison reform in Pennsylvania, the Zwaanendael Merman, and the Lawndale, Illinois big bird incident.

Gambling and the Law®: Pathological Poker

Professor I. Nelson Rose addresses the complexities of identifying pathological gambling, particularly in poker players. He questions whether poker is truly gambling and if a professional player making a good living can be considered a compulsive gambler. Rose notes that standard gambling problem tests, like the Gamblers Anonymous 20 Questions, may not be perfectly suited for poker players, citing examples like the question about gambling longer than planned, which might not apply to casual home games. He highlights the differences between social, professional, home-based, and online poker, and the varying levels of play from free micro-stakes to high-stakes games.

To assist poker players in self-assessment, Rose has developed his own test, which he admits is not entirely scientific but is based on existing literature and discussions with professionals. He presents a list of questions for poker players, covering issues such as playing stakes too high, inability to quit whether winning or losing, blaming bad beats, anger at other players, going on tilt, increasing bets when losing, staying in too many hands, excessive drinking, forgetting social obligations, misleading others about poker habits, increasing ATM use, lying to get money for poker, feeling bad about poker-related actions, and prioritizing poker over sex. Rose suggests that answering many of these questions affirmatively warrants contacting a gambling hotline.

Professor I. Nelson Rose is recognized as a leading expert on gambling law, a consultant, and an expert witness. His books include "Internet Gaming Law" and "Gaming Law: Cases and Materials."

In the Footsteps of Our Forbearers: Official Prison Visitors: Continuing the Mission

This article, by Dee Johnson and Ezra Geggel, chronicles the history and ongoing work of The Pennsylvania Prison Society, founded over two centuries ago. The society's founders aimed to reform the penal system, which at the time of the American Revolution was a "hodgepodge of disorder" where first-time offenders were mixed with recidivists, and conditions were squalid, disease-ridden, and often involved the sale of liquor and encouragement of prostitution by jailors. Prisoners were frequently charged for basic necessities, leading to starvation and increased hardening rather than rehabilitation.

In 1787, a group of prominent Philadelphians, including Benjamin Franklin, Bishop William White, and Dr. Benjamin Rush, founded the Pennsylvania Society for Alleviating the Miseries of Public Prisons. Influenced by Enlightenment ideals, they abhorred inhumane punishments and advocated for imprisonment as a more civilized form of punishment. Dr. Rush proposed the "Pennsylvania System," emphasizing penitence and isolation for prisoners.

To implement this system, the Society lobbied for and secured funding for Eastern State Penitentiary, built starting in 1822, which featured amenities like central heating, shower baths, and flushing toilets. The Pennsylvania System gained international recognition, with delegates like Alex de Tocqueville studying its methods, and prisons worldwide adopted similar models. However, by the early 1900s, the system was replaced by a congregate system. Despite this shift, the Society's influence in penal reform continued.

The Society established an Acting Committee, now known as Official Prison Visitors, to monitor prison conditions, advocate for prisoners, and facilitate visits. Dr. Johnston notes that these visits helped improve food, clothing, heating, and sanitation. In 1829, the Official Visitation of Prisons Act was adopted, granting Society members access to correctional facilities and sustaining citizen oversight.

Today, the Prison Society has 67 statewide chapters and over 450 Official Prison Visitors who conduct thousands of visits annually. Executive Director William DiMascio emphasizes the volunteers' commitment to social justice and human dignity. John Hargreaves, Director of Volunteers, dedicated nearly 30 years to this work. With over 51,000 inmates in state prisons and 45,000 in county jails in Pennsylvania, the need for volunteers is significant.

The article also discusses the challenges prisoners face, such as prisons being located far from home, hindering family ties and rehabilitation. Volunteers bridge this gap by connecting prisoners with community agencies and maintaining contact with families. The Society encourages public awareness of criminal justice reform and invites individuals to become Official Prison Visitors. Information on how to get involved is provided, including contact details and the society's website.

Bishop William White (1748-1836)

A biographical sketch of Bishop William White is included, detailing his birth in Philadelphia, education at the College of Philadelphia, and his role as a moderate revolutionary during the American Revolution. He was instrumental in keeping the American branch of the Anglican church unified with Britain and became rector of Christ Church and St. Peter's. He was also chaplain to the Continental Congress. White was an organizer and theologian, a member of the American Philosophical Society, and an early participant in prison ministry. He was elected president of the first General Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church and later became its Bishop. His extensive tenure as a trustee of the University of Pennsylvania is also noted.

The Zwaanendael Merman

By Don Nigroni, this article explores the concept of mermaids and mermen in English folklore, noting their likely origins from Mediterranean siren myths and the evolution to a fish-tailed form. The belief in their existence persisted for centuries, reinforced by tales and fakes. Historical accounts of mermaid sightings are mentioned, including Christopher Columbus's encounter with manatees he mistook for mermaids. The article details several mermaid exhibitions in England during the 18th and 19th centuries, often involving elaborate impostures.

Nigroni then focuses on a specific exhibit at the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes, Delaware. He recounts a visit with Ray Haupt and Bob Clark to see the museum's "Zwaanendael Merman." The accompanying text at the museum suggests the merman is a fake from mid-19th century China, made of materials like fish, hair, ivory, oak, glass, rayon, and dye. The text indicates the creature belonged to the Martin family and was displayed at the museum intermittently before being purchased and donated. The Zwaanendael Merman is noted to have "relatives" in at least six other museums across North America.

Don Nigroni's background as an economist is provided, noting his retirement and current interests in outdoor activities.

The Lawndale, Illinois Big Birds Incident

Also by Don Nigroni, this article investigates a reported incident on July 25, 1977, where a 10-year-old boy in Lawndale, Illinois, was allegedly picked up by a mysterious big bird. The article considers various possibilities, including an out-of-range Andean condor, a relict teratorn, a supernatural thunderbird, or a common bird species misidentified due to its appearance.

The author discusses the historical context of large flying creatures, including pterosaurs and teratorns, which are now extinct, and mentions reports of large birds and mythical flying beings throughout history and in different cultures. He notes that while there is no convincing evidence of strange flying creatures existing for thousands of years, reports persist.

Nigroni examines specific historical accounts of large birds and winged creatures, including those from American Indian oral traditions (thunderbirds) and legends like the Jersey Devil. He cites reports of large birds with significant wingspans in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, and a sighting in South Texas. The article also details extinct flying creatures with impressive wingspans, such as Quetzalcoatlus northropi and Argentavis magnificens, as well as extant birds like Andean condors and turkey vultures.

The core of the article focuses on the Lawndale incident, where witnesses described "two huge, coal-black birds with long, white-ringed necks, long curled beaks, and wingspans of 10 or more feet." The article compares this description to recently fledged turkey vultures, noting that while adult turkey vultures have distinctive reddish-crimson heads and no white neck rings, young birds can have grayish-black heads and a ring of white down feathers around their necks. The article provides a comparative table of the Lawndale birds' description versus recently fledged turkey vultures, suggesting a surprisingly good match.

Nigroni addresses the implausibility of supernatural thunderbirds or teratorns lifting a 70-pound boy, citing the weight limitations of these creatures. He concludes that it is more plausible that the birds seen in Lawndale were indeed turkey vultures, possibly young ones with distinctive neck markings, and that the boy's experience of being lifted might have been a misinterpretation of falling after being frightened.

The article includes a list of references and a note defining "North America" as used in the National Geographic Society's Field Guide to the Birds of North America. A cartoon from Web Donuts.com and a poem by Edgar Allan Poe titled "To Science" are also featured.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phactum, the propaganda organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT), demonstrates a commitment to skeptical inquiry and rational explanation across diverse topics. The articles on pathological poker and the Lawndale big bird incident exemplify this by seeking logical explanations for complex phenomena, whether psychological or observational. The detailed historical account of the Pennsylvania Prison Society underscores PhACT's interest in social progress and the examination of historical movements. The inclusion of the Zwaanendael Merman, while discussing a purported mythical creature, frames it within the context of folklore, historical exhibitions, and museum artifacts, maintaining a grounded perspective. The publication actively encourages reader engagement through letters and feedback, reinforcing its role as a platform for critical discussion and the dissemination of information relevant to critical thinking.