Phactum - 2010 04 - April

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: April 2010
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Content Focus: Critical thinking, skepticism, science, history, and current events with a focus on rational analysis.

Featured Articles and Discussions

Financial Meltdowns, Man-Made Disasters, and the Human Mind: Risk and Numbers

This section announces a talk by Dr. David Cragin, a toxicologist and professor, who will address why intelligent individuals and companies make poor risk management decisions. The discussion will explore whether these challenges stem from education or evolutionary reasons that hinder risk comprehension. Dr. Cragin's affiliations include the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia and Peking University in Beijing, China.

The Hard Problem of Consciousness

Don Nigroni tackles the philosophical challenge of consciousness, distinguishing between the 'easy problems' (correlating neural activity with mental activity) and the 'hard problem' (explaining the existence of the immaterial mind and its interaction with the physical brain). He examines various philosophical stances, including Cartesian dualism and bundle theory, concluding that the problem may be unsolvable if one avoids mysticism and magic.

Are Aliens Nesting at the Heinz NWR at Tinicum?

Don Nigroni investigates reports of unusual sightings at the Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia. He revisits the idea that nocturnal owls, particularly the Great Horned Owl, could be mistaken for extraterrestrial aliens, citing past incidents like the 'Little Green Men' encounter in Kentucky and the 'Flatwoods Monster' and 'Mothman' in West Virginia, which were later identified as owls. The article details an 'Owl Prowl' conducted at the refuge.

On Addiction, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Paul Schlueter III shares his personal perspective on addiction, drawing from his past experiences and his involvement in addiction diagnosis and treatment. He critically examines the concept of the 'gateway drug,' arguing that it is a flawed notion used to support the criminalization of marijuana. Schlueter posits that the 'gateway' is not the drug itself but rather a social and biological disposition towards seeking altered perceptions to cope with life. He also touches upon nicotine as a potentially more fitting example of a substance that teens might experiment with early in life.

Book Review: Invisible Ink: Spycraft of the American Revolution

A review of John A. Nagy's book, which details the critical role of espionage during the American Revolution. The review highlights Washington's reliance on a spy network and his design of deceptions, covering techniques like codes, ciphers, dead drops, and counterintelligence efforts. The book is based on nearly two decades of research, including the discovery of previously unrecognized spies and methods.

Meeting Reports and Other News

March 2010 Meeting Report: The Decline of Males

Professor Lionel Tiger discussed his book "The Decline of Males," examining how American family and sexual norms have changed over the last half-century, influenced by effective contraception and women's increased power. He notes the rise of women in education and the workforce, and shifts in voting patterns. Tiger also briefly discussed his book "God's Brain," exploring the evolutionary basis of religion and its role in uniting societies, drawing parallels with primate behavior.

PhACT Participates in the Bucks County Science Fair

PhACT members served as judges at the Bucks County Science Fair, awarding three $100 prizes to students for critical thinking skills. The event was held at Delaware Valley College. The article highlights the scientific attitudes of the students and mentions specific projects by Timothy Ireland ('Bio Gas the Future of renewable energy'), Jaclyn DiYeso ('Pyramids - do they have the power to preserve'), and Blake Vuocolo ('Could a Single Sneeze Cause a Dangerous Disease?'). PhACT plans to continue supporting science fairs.

Government Efficiency

A report on a Sacramento Bee article detailing two IRS agents delivering a bill for a mere $0.04 in delinquent tax payment, plus fines and interest, totaling $202.35. The article criticizes the IRS's discretion and prioritization.

A Win in the UK for Science Based Medicine

Simon Singh won an appeal in a libel suit filed against him by the British Chiropractic Association (BCA). The case involved Singh's opinion that the BCA promotes treatments without evidence. The Court of Appeal ruled that Singh's statement was an expression of opinion.

The Pennsylvania Lottery, Innumeracy, and 7's

An article discusses the Pennsylvania Lottery's winning number 7777, noting that it was a popular number leading to a large payout. The article questions the lottery's financial loss and the infrequency of the number 7777 winning.

On This Day in 1790: Benjamin Franklin's Death

This section commemorates the 220th anniversary of Benjamin Franklin's death on April 17, 1790. It provides biographical details about Franklin, including his birth in Boston, his career as a printer, and his description as a 'polymath.' His mock epitaph is included.

Despite recession, Tooth Fairy remains generous

A brief note on Delta Dental's statistics showing that Tooth Fairy payments have increased despite the recession, commending the Tooth Fairy for supporting the economy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Phactum newsletter consistently promotes critical thinking, skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, and a rational approach to understanding complex issues. The publication encourages scientific inquiry, historical accuracy, and a questioning attitude towards authority and conventional wisdom. The editorial stance is clearly aligned with promoting evidence-based reasoning and debunking pseudoscience and misinformation, as seen in articles on consciousness, UFOs, and the critique of concepts like 'gateway drugs.' The organization also actively supports science education and public engagement through events and participation in science fairs.

Phactum, April 2010, Volume 11, is a magazine that delves into complex societal issues, with this issue focusing heavily on addiction, its definitions, and treatment methodologies. The cover prominently features a quote from American writer William S. Burroughs, who argues that psychotherapy is strongly contraindicated for addicts and that inquiring about the origins of their addiction is irrelevant to treatment, likening it to asking a malarial patient why they went to a malarial area.

Defining Addiction: Beyond Simple Habits

The article "What defines an 'addict?'" challenges the common definition of addiction as simply "that which forms a habit." The author shares a personal anecdote about being more addicted to relationships than drugs, questioning the need for a finer edge to the definition. The piece critiques the use of lists of questions related to behaviors accompanying substance use, highlighting two main problems: these lists are often based on anecdotal evidence from individuals who may not have personal experience with addiction, and the interpretation of answers is subjective and arbitrary.

While acknowledging the appeal of simple questionnaires for assessing negative behaviors, the author points out their ineffectiveness when dealing with individuals already deep in addiction, such as a crackhead who will lie and immediately ask for money. The article asserts that lists are unnecessary when the diagnosis is obvious and lack the subtlety to define a clear demarcation between "addicted" and "not addicted."

The Nuance of Addiction: Shades of Grey

"THERE IS NO CLEAR DISTINCTION!" the article proclaims, stating that addiction is not a black-and-white issue but involves many subtle shades of grey. Some individuals may lie about substance use but face no other problems, while others might spend money they really can't spare on their addiction yet still function effectively. The author cites a magazine poll indicating that 20% of women have never had sex unless intoxicated, questioning if this constitutes addiction to the substance or the sex itself.

The point is made that numerous associated behaviors accompany substance use or the pursuit of endorphins through high-risk activities. These include social behaviors, financial costs, moral/ethical choices, and a complex interplay of factors that require extensive analysis by a trained professional to determine the degree of addiction.

The Circumstantial Definition of Addiction

The article argues that addiction often comes down to a single question: has the behavior forced the subject into discussion? If one needs to be evaluated for addictive behavior, it's likely they will be declared an addict. Conversely, if the issue isn't significant enough to warrant such attention, they may not consider themselves an addict, regardless of habituality. This is compared to being arrested by the police making one a criminal, while avoiding arrest means not being a criminal. The author criticizes this as a "definition by circumstance" rather than rational determination or scientific analysis, noting that much of "addiction treatment" follows this pattern.

The Treatment of Addiction: Critiquing Conventional Methods

The second part of the article, "The Treatment of Addiction," addresses the common fallacy that one can never be cured of addiction, only remain "in recovery." This myth, the author contends, stems from the observation of relapse but ignores the fact that many people do not relapse. The author shares a personal experience of quitting smoking at age 18 and remaining nicotine-free for over 15 years without treatment, questioning why this anecdotal fact is less compelling than the evidence supporting the "addicts can't be cured" myth.

The article criticizes the addiction treatment industry, suggesting that it relies on treating addicts and perpetuates the need for "lifelong" treatment to sustain its income. The most popular form of treatment, the 12-step group, is described as a faith-based, dogmatic ritual where participants admit powerlessness and turn control over to a generic "higher power." The author notes the prevalence of other addictive substances and behaviors within these groups, such as smoking and caffeine consumption.

Alternative programs like Rational Recovery are mentioned as offering similar principles without supernatural reliance, but their success is questioned. The article suggests that even individuals making a half-hearted attempt to quit without treatment might achieve similar results.

The Role of "Gurus" and Institutional Bias

Treatment programs are often sponsored by institutions (corporate, educational, governmental, or religious), with the selection of programs based on political or financial decisions rather than scientific criteria. The "facilitators" are frequently trained by popular "gurus" who have published self-help books, and the author draws parallels between these gurus and proponents of homeopathy or faith healing. The article questions the scientific rigor of these programs and suggests that the choice of program is often influenced by biases or public relations exercises.

The author argues that the effectiveness of these programs is often motivated by the facilitators' desire to keep their jobs, leading to a focus on demonstrating success rates rather than genuine efficacy. Independent "Rehab" facilities are described as ranging from spas with in-house 12-step programs to enforced treatment facilities for judicial or private sector clients. Factors like competitive bidding for payment rates can also compromise quality of care.

The Ideal of Individualized Medical Treatment

Semi-professional therapists working on an individualized basis are seen as potentially offering effective care at a lower cost, provided the treatment is based on the best medical information and scientific approach. The specificity of individualized care, tailoring treatment to a patient's unique experiences, social circumstances, biological influences, and psychological needs, is highlighted as crucial. However, the cost of such treatment is noted as likely prohibitive for many.

Conclusion: Moving Beyond Stigma and Towards Effective Care

The article concludes by observing the media's frequent coverage of celebrity rehabs, often linked to scandals or a need for "attention." It notes the public's tendency to be judgmental about others' vices, using the term "addict" to put individuals on the defensive. The author cautions against this judgmental attitude, suggesting that everyone is a complex individual.

While acknowledging that many people suffer from unhealthy reliance on substances or activities and would benefit from evidence-based treatment, the article criticizes the ease with which people point fingers and label others as addicts. It calls for a recognition of the witch-hunt mentality and advocates for reason to guide discussions, moving away from pop-psychiatry and talk show diagnostics. The author stresses the need to remove the social stigma associated with addiction, making individuals more willing to seek qualified help. Decriminalizing ordinary drug use, as long as treatment is voluntary, is also suggested as a societal benefit. Finally, the article emphasizes the importance of making effective treatment affordable, providing reliable information, and holding the industry accountable to scientific standards, stating, "This isn't a game we can leave to the Woo-Woos and their hocus-pocus."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phactum adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards conventional addiction treatment, particularly the 12-step model and the broader societal tendency to label and stigmatize individuals with addictive behaviors. The magazine advocates for a more rational, evidence-based, and individualized approach to addiction treatment, emphasizing the need for scientific rigor and affordability. It challenges the notion of perpetual "recovery" and suggests that genuine cures are possible. The editorial stance is one of questioning established norms and promoting a more nuanced and compassionate understanding of addiction, while also pushing for industry accountability and the removal of social stigma.

Title: Phactum
Issue Date: April 2010
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum, the propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, details a series of events and exhibits primarily hosted by Laurel Hill Cemetery and the Chemical Heritage Foundation, spanning April and May 2010. It also includes information on PhACT's membership, donations, and upcoming activities.

Laurel Hill Cemetery Events

Laurel Hill Cemetery is hosting several significant events:

Titanic's Floaters: Recovery, Preparation, and Disposition (Saturday, April 10, 2010, 3 PM)

This annual commemoration of the R.M.S. Titanic's sinking includes a walking tour of Laurel Hill Cemetery to visit the burial places of Titanic passengers, followed by a visit to West Laurel Hill Cemetery for additional graves. The event concludes with a slide-supported presentation focusing on bodies that re-emerged from the depths, and a sumptuous feast replicating the Titanic's dinner. Dr. J. Joseph Edgette, Widener University Professor and Resident Folklorist, hosts the event. The cost is $25 for tours only, and $75 for the full package. Advance registration is required.

A Sunday Afternoon of All Things Baseball: The Harry Kalas Museum Exhibit Public Opening (Sunday, April 11, 2010, 1 PM)

This event marks the public opening of the Harry Kalas Museum Exhibit at Laurel Hill Cemetery, the late sportscaster's final resting place. The exhibit features personal items belonging to Harry Kalas. Following the exhibit, attendees can watch the Phillies play the Houston Astros on a large screen while enjoying food and drink. Guided tours to Harry Kalas's gravesite are also offered. Author Randy Miller, who wrote "Harry the K: The Remarkable Life of Harry Kalas," will be present to sign books. A raffle offers a chance to win Phillies game tickets. The cost is $40 for adults and $10 for children ages 12 and under. Tickets are all-inclusive and can be purchased in advance.

Nature in the Necropolis: Birds and Blooms (Saturday, May 1, 2010, 10 AM)

This program is a walk through Laurel Hill Cemetery, the nation's first garden cemetery, focusing on its landscape, history, and bird identification. Participants can observe birds during the near end of migration season. Binoculars, a bird book, notepad, and pen are optional. The program costs $20 per person, with discounts for members, seniors, and students. Children under 12 are free. Reservations can be made by phone or email.

Chemical Heritage Foundation Events

The Chemical Heritage Foundation (CHF) in Philadelphia offers a series of free events:

Brown Bag Lecture: Chin Jou, “How the Calorie Leapt from Chemistry Lab Obscurity to Diet-Culture Eminence" (Tuesday, April 13, 2010, 12 PM - 1 PM)

Chin Jou will discuss the history of the calorie, from Wilbur Olin Atwater's experiments in the 1890s to its rise as a central concept in diet culture in the 1910s and 1920s. The lecture will explore how the calorie transformed our perception of food and its popularity in weight management.

Science Fiction Movie: X: The Unknown (1956) (Wednesday, April 14, 2010, 6:30 PM)

A screening of the British science-fiction thriller "X: The Unknown," directed by Leslie Norman. The film involves a mysterious, intelligent, radioactive mud mass emerging from the Earth. The screening is followed by a discussion led by Michael Wellenreiter.

Yoshiyuki Kikuchi, "The Emperor's Chemists at War: Joji Sakurai during the Russo-Japanese and First World Wars, 1904-1919" (Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 12 PM - 1 PM)

Yoshiyuki Kikuchi will present research arguing that the involvement of civilian chemists in war-related research began in Japan earlier than commonly believed, during the Russo-Japanese War, focusing on Joji Sakurai's work with tear gas. Kikuchi contends that these conflicts transformed Sakurai into a national figure and significantly influenced Japan's scientific research system.

Matteo Martelli, "'Natural and Secret Things': The Alchemical Work of Pseudo-Democritus in Its Greek and Syriac Tradition" (Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 12 PM - 1 PM)

Matteo Martelli will discuss the oldest alchemical work known in the Western world, attributed to Democritus. The presentation will explore the origins of Greek alchemy, its relationship to ancient craftsmanship, and its assimilation into Middle Eastern culture through Syriac and Arabic translations.

Regina Lee Blaszczyk, "Plexiglas: From the Eyes of Aviation to McDonald's Golden Arches" (Tuesday, May 4, 2010, 12 PM - 1 PM)

This talk will focus on the history of innovation at Rohm and Haas Company, particularly the development and impact of Plexiglas acrylic plastic. The presentation will cover how Plexiglas transformed aviation, influenced roadside architecture, and grew the market through customer collaboration.

Ongoing Exhibitions at CHF

• Transmutations: Alchemy in Art: Monday-Friday, 10 AM - 4 PM (appointment only).
• The Whole of Nature and the Mirror of Art: Images of Alchemy: Du Pont Gallery.
• Marvels and Ciphers: A Look Inside The Flask: March 1 - December 10, 2010.

PhACT Events

Annual Dinner/Fundraiser (Saturday, May 15, 2010, 5 PM)

The annual dinner and fundraiser for PhACT will be held at The Sorella Rose in Flourtown. The guest speaker will be Joe Nickell, writer and investigator for Skeptical Inquirer, who will discuss his investigations into paranormal phenomena, cryptozoology, UFO's, and vampires. The cost is $35 per person, and an RSVP is required. Reservations can be made by sending a check to Bob Glickman.

Jersey Devil Hunt!! (Sunday, May 16, 2010)

An expedition to the New Jersey Pine Barrens to search for the Jersey Devil. Joe Nickell will be present, and the guide will be Don Nigroni. The event is free and will involve exploring the Wharton Tract area. Participants are advised to bring insect repellent, sturdy shoes, and a camera.

PhACT Membership and Donations

PhACT offers annual memberships: $15 for email delivery of Phactum, and $25 for US Mail delivery. Student memberships are $10 (email only). Donations are welcome and can be made payable to PhACT. The organization also manages High School Science Fair Student Prize Funds, with contributions for 2010 and 2011 detailed. Information on judging and donations for student prizes is available from Eric Krieg.

Policy For Article Use

Materials originating in Phactum may be reprinted by groups recognized in CSI's international network of skeptics organizations, provided PhACT and the author are credited. Other publications require permission from PhACT. Illustrations from other sources require permission from the original publisher.

The PhACT Council 2010

The issue lists the members of the PhACT Council for 2010, 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 revolve around history, science, and the paranormal, with a particular focus on local events and educational outreach. PhACT, as an organization dedicated to critical thinking, presents information on historical events (Titanic, scientific discoveries), scientific and pseudoscientific topics (alchemy, UFOs, Jersey Devil), and cultural phenomena (baseball, diet culture). The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting critical examination of these topics, offering lectures, exhibits, and expeditions that encourage learning and discussion, while also providing a platform for members to engage with these subjects. The emphasis on skepticism is evident in the mention of Skeptical Inquirer and the policy for article use, suggesting an aim to debunk or critically analyze claims, particularly those related to the paranormal.