Phactum - 2011 01 - January

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: January 2011
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Phactum, the newsletter and propaganda organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, provides a diverse range of content centered around skepticism, science, and critical inquiry. The January 2011 issue features an announcement for a PhACT meeting on January 15, 2011, where Professor Massimo Pigliucci of the City University of New York will discuss his new book, "Nonsense on Stilts: How to Tell Science from Bunk." The meeting is scheduled to be held at the Community College of Philadelphia.

Featured Articles and Reports

"Nonsense on Stilts" and Professor Pigliucci

Massimo Pigliucci, Chair of the Department of Philosophy at CUNY-Lehman College and editor-in-chief of "Philosophy & Theory in Biology," is highlighted. He is known as a critic of creationism and an advocate for science education, frequently writing for "Skeptical Inquirer" and maintaining a blog called "Rationally Speaking." His book "Nonsense on Stilts" aims to separate scientific fact from pseudoscience, examining how science is conducted, disseminated, and interpreted.

History of Dental Colleges in Philadelphia

"Various Ruminations," collected and written by Ray Haupt, delves into the history of dental education in Philadelphia. It details the founding of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery in 1840, the first dental college in the world, and the subsequent establishment of the Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery (PCDS) in 1856 and the Philadelphia Dental College (PDC) in 1863. The article notes the affiliation of Garretson Hospital for Oral Surgery and the eventual merger of PDC with Temple College, forming Temple University. It also highlights two notable alumni of PCDS: Doc Holliday, who received his DDS in 1872 before becoming a gambler and gunfighter, and Zane Grey, the American novelist, who also studied dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania before pursuing his writing career.

Cosmology and "Crackpots"

The issue includes a detailed report on the November PhACT meeting, featuring a lecture by Professor Dave Goldberg of Drexel University titled "Cosmology and Crackpots." The report, contributed by students Catherine Bergeron and Said Elmenyawy, and summarized by Sara Snell, covers topics such as Dark Matter, Dark Energy, and the expanding universe. Professor Goldberg discussed the scientific basis for these concepts, contrasting them with pseudoscientific theories and "crackpot" websites. He explained that about 95% of the universe is composed of dark matter and dark energy, a concept that is often met with skepticism by the general public. Goldberg emphasized the importance of distinguishing between real science and pseudoscience, and advised readers to be critical of popular science media that may sensationalize or misrepresent scientific findings.

Free Will Discussion

A thread on the PhACT online discussion board regarding free will is mentioned, stemming from a Special Edition of Phactum by Al Fonda. Alfred Erpel shares his opinion that free will exists, precluding belief in an omniscient entity. Al Fonda responds, acknowledging Erpel's position as a standard one that prioritizes direct experience of willing and acting. Fonda suggests that the conflict between free will and determinism is a false one and that humans are exceptional, advocating for peace and acceptance.

Other Topics

The issue also touches upon various other subjects:

• Vacation at Chernobyl: Encouragement for Ukrainian government initiatives to promote tourism in the Chernobyl area.
• Cosmology: A brief mention of a recent announcement that the estimated number of stars in the Universe has tripled to 300 sextillion.
• End of the World: A reference to a website predicting the end of the world on May 21, 2011.
• Sylvia Browne: An announcement for a psychic event featuring Sylvia Browne.
• Vaccines: A discussion on the development of personalized vaccines for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, citing a successful clinical trial led by Dr. Stephen Schuster at the University of Pennsylvania. The article also explores the definition of "vaccine" and mentions shingles vaccines and a vaccine education game.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phactum strongly advocates for critical thinking, scientific literacy, and skepticism towards pseudoscience and misinformation. The editorial stance is clear in promoting evidence-based reasoning and encouraging readers to question and investigate claims, particularly those found in popular media or fringe theories. The magazine serves as a platform for disseminating scientific information, fostering intellectual discussion, and debunking pseudoscientific beliefs. The emphasis on the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking's mission is evident throughout the publication.

Phactum, January 2011 issue, presents a diverse range of articles covering cosmology, historical events, neuroscience, legal philosophy, and economics.

Article: Professor Goldberg's Arguments on Dark Matter and Dark Energy

This section provides an overview of Professor Goldberg's lecture, focusing on his arguments for the existence of dark matter and dark energy. His key points included:

1. Rotational Curves: Galaxies appear to be missing a significant amount of mass based on their rotational curves.
2. Clusters: The "bullet cluster" example suggests gravitational lensing is responsible for the apparent mass discrepancies in clusters.
3. Microwave Background: Measurements from the WMAP (Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe) provide accurate parameters for the Big Bang model, including the density of baryonic and non-baryonic matter.

The author found Professor Goldberg's presentation persuasive, noting it was within his field of specialty. A minor critique was that the "crackpot" aspect of the lecture, suggested by the title "Cosmology and Crackpots," seemed underdeveloped. Crackpots were only mentioned briefly at the beginning and end, with the majority of the time dedicated to proving dark matter and dark energy. Goldberg did mention amusing sites like "timecube" and "space mirror mystery" and announced his next book would focus on false science. Despite this, Goldberg was described as a good public speaker, engaging, informative, and well-executed.

Article: Reactions to the Panic Broadcast in Philadelphia and Metro NYC

This article by Don Nigroni details the public reaction to the Mercury Theatre on the Air's Halloween Eve, October 30, 1938, dramatization of H. G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds." The broadcast, set on a fictitious Wilmuth farm in Grover's Mill, New Jersey, led to widespread panic, with many listeners believing a Martian invasion was real. Newspaper accounts indicate tens of thousands, possibly hundreds of thousands, of calls were received by police and radio stations. People reportedly went outside to witness the "attack" or to gather information.

Excerpts from the radio script and newspaper reports illustrate the confusion. The drama described Martians landing, devastating New York City, and killing state militiamen. Philadelphians were concerned about being overwhelmed by refugees. Reports from various newspapers like The Daily Courier, Tyrone Daily Herald, and The New York Times describe people fleeing their homes, hiding in basements, and swamped switchboards. The broadcast mentioned poisonous black smoke and Martians crossing the Passaic River and Hudson River, leading to traffic snarls, people using wet handkerchiefs for protection, and even injuries like broken arms and bruised knees, as in the case of WPA actress Caroline Cantlon.

The article also includes biographical information on Don Nigroni, noting his BS in economics and MA in philosophy, and his career as an economist.

Article: George Orson Welles

This section provides biographical details about George Orson Welles, born in Wisconsin in 1915. It highlights his early career in theater, forming The Mercury Theater with John Houseman, and his role as the voice of Lamont Cranston (The Shadow) on radio. The article focuses on his infamous 1938 radio adaptation of "The War of the Worlds," which unintentionally fooled many listeners into believing Martians had invaded Earth, leading to his national fame.

His directorial debut in Hollywood was with the film "Citizen Kane" (1941), critically acclaimed for its innovative techniques but not a box office success, reportedly due to William Randolph Hearst's influence. Welles's subsequent films include "The Magnificent Ambersons" (1942), "The Lady From Shanghai" (1948), and "Touch of Evil" (1958). He was known for difficulties in finishing projects and battled with studio executives. He also acted in films like "The Third Man" (1949) and "The Muppet Movie" (1979), and worked primarily in television and as a narrator before his death in 1985.

The section also includes several quotes attributed to Orson Welles on various topics, including the colorization of "Citizen Kane," Donny Osmond's musical talent, Nostradamus' predictions, religion, and the nature of happy endings.

Article: How Addiction Lights Up Our Brains

By Gary Lange Ph.D., MFT, NCGC, this article explores the neuroscience of addiction, focusing on how neurotransmitters dopamine and glutamate affect the brain. It explains that pleasurable experiences, including those from addictive behaviors, activate specific areas of the brain: the Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA), the prefrontal cortex, and the Nucleus Accumbens (NA).

The VTA and NA are described as ancient survival areas in the midbrain, acting as the brain's "pleasure center." Normally, the prefrontal cortex keeps the midbrain in check. However, in addiction, the midbrain gains dominance. Addictive chemicals or behaviors stimulate these survival centers, impairing communication between the prefrontal cortex and the midbrain. The addicted person then prioritizes the addictive behavior over consequences.

Dopamine, released in the VTA and NA, signals pleasure. High dopamine levels lead to a strong sense of pleasure. Dopamine stimulates the NA to secrete glutamate, which then signals the prefrontal cortex to remember the pleasurable experience. This "locks" the memory of the reward. In addiction, drugs and addictive behaviors release excessive dopamine, creating "super-duper memories" that can last for years and leave the individual vulnerable to relapse.

The article explains that this imbalance between dopamine and glutamate can desensitize the brain to normal rewards, leading to a state where pleasure is only felt through the addictive behavior or substance. This can result in depression associated with withdrawal. The article argues that addiction is a disease of the brain, affecting the reward pathway and the prefrontal cortex responsible for decision-making. It highlights that recovery involves re-setting the brain's pleasure centers through abstinence, healthy behaviors, psychotherapy, and supportive groups.

Article: "What Promise Hath Life?"

Authored by Paul Schlueter III, this piece questions the legal presumption in "Wrongful Death" actions that a victim would have lived a fully productive life had they not died prematurely. Schlueter argues that life offers no guarantees, citing the unpredictability of lifespan and the numerous potential hazards that could lead to death at any moment.

He uses the example of a man who allegedly committed murder and the victims' families' claims of being "robbed" of time. Schlueter posits that if the victims had survived the attack, they could have still faced other fatal incidents. He emphasizes that "Life Hath NO Promise" and urges readers to appreciate each moment and live life to its fullest. The article also critiques the legal system's reliance on "rational, logic-based fact" when "justice" can be subjective and history is written by victors. It advocates for critical thinking and skepticism.

Paul Schlueter III is serving a life sentence in Nebraska, and a website, www.jaylbird.org, has been created by his supporters.

Article: Gambling and the Law®: Of Course It Was a Depression

Professor I. Nelson Rose examines the impact of the "Mini-Depression" (likely referring to the 2008-2009 economic downturn) on the legal gaming industry. He defines an economic depression as a decline in gross domestic product lasting longer than a recession and notes that its full impact is often only recognized years later.

The article details how Penn National Gaming was affected when banks withdrew financing for its acquisition, leading to a significant drop in its stock price. The Bank of England cut its interest rate, and U.S. treasury yields went negative, indicating a flight to safety. Economic depressions lead to deflation, with sellers becoming desperate and prices dropping.

Las Vegas casinos saw drastically reduced room rates, with some even giving away rooms. Atlantic City's gross operating profit fell significantly. The article cites statistics showing a decline in average visitor spending on food, drink, shows, and gambling budgets in Las Vegas from 2006 to 2009. While internet gambling showed slower growth, land-based gaming was hit hard by dual disasters: the economic downturn and massive expansions funded by debt.

Numerous gaming companies, including Trump Entertainment, Herbst Gaming, and MGM Mirage, faced bankruptcy or significant financial distress. The article notes that even long-standing enterprises like the Imperial Hotel and Casino in Colorado succumbed to the Mini-Depression, competition, and a smoking ban.

Governments, desperate for tax revenue, looked to gambling as a source of income, often leading to tax increases. However, some desperate measures were taken, such as New Jersey considering rolling back a smoking ban for Atlantic City casinos. The article also discusses movements toward legalizing intra-state Internet poker in New Jersey and California, with potential future implications for interstate betting if Congress amends the UIGEA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue touches upon themes of perception versus reality (the "War of the Worlds" broadcast, the nature of addiction), the scientific exploration of the universe (cosmology), the human brain and its vulnerabilities (addiction), and the impact of economic forces on industries and legal frameworks (gambling, wrongful death). The editorial stance appears to favor scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and a nuanced understanding of complex issues like addiction and economic downturns, while also acknowledging the subjective nature of law and justice.

This document is the January 2011 issue of the PhACT Calendar, a publication of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT). It serves as a comprehensive listing of upcoming events, lectures, workshops, and meetings in and around Philadelphia, primarily focusing on science, history, culture, and critical thinking.

PhACT Meetings and Events

The calendar details regular PhACT meetings, typically held on the third Saturday of most months at the Community College of Philadelphia. These meetings are free and open to the public. The January 15, 2011 meeting featured Professor Massimo Pigliucci speaking on "Nonsense on Stilts." Future speakers include David Clarke in February and TBA in March and April. The annual PhACT Banquet is scheduled for May 21, 2011, in Flourtown, PA.

Featured Lectures and Talks

Several institutions host a variety of lectures and talks listed in the calendar:

• The College of Physicians of Philadelphia: Offers lectures on topics such as "The Barnes in the 21st Century" (Derek Gillman), "40 Years and Counting: The War on Cancer" (Alfred Knudson, Anna Meadows), "The Science Center: Rocking Philadelphia's Cradle of Eds, Meds, and Innovation" (Stephen Tang), and "Islam and the West" (Buntzie Ellis Churchill).
• Free Library of Philadelphia: Hosts talks by notable authors and figures, including Edmund Morris on "Colonel Roosevelt," Annette Gordon-Reed on "Andrew Johnson," Michael Scheuer on "Osama bin Laden," Bart D. Ehrman on "Forged: Writing in the Name of God," and James Gleick on "The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood." Elijah Anderson will speak on "The Cosmopolitan Canopy: Race and Civility in Everyday Life."
• University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology: Features the "Great Adventures along the Silk Road" lecture series, with topics like "The Plague: Deadly Travel Companion of Trade Routes" (Lester K. Little) and "Samarkand in the Age of Tamerlane." It also hosts an Archaeological Institute of America lecture on "Roman provincial coins."
• The Academy of Natural Sciences: Presents "Archives and Expeditions" highlighting past explorations, and an "Urban Forestry Hike." They also host events related to "The World Water Crisis" (Stan Laskowski) and "Why You Can Hardly Swing A Dead Cat Without Hitting A Dead Cat In an Animal Shelter Today" (Michael Moyer).
• Chemical Heritage Foundation (CHF): Offers "Brown Bag Lectures" such as "The Story of Chemistry from the 18th Century to Today" (Thomas R. Tritton) and "At the Nexus of Organic Chemistry, Ecology, and Microbiology: Sergei Winogradsky's Research into Chemosynthesis, 1880–1900" (Lloyd Ackert). They also host the "Elemental Matters" exhibit opening.
• Wagner Free Institute of Science: Offers adult education courses on "Invasive Plants," "Adventures of a Molecular Geneticist," and "Exceptional Fossil Preservation." They also host lectures, including "Nasal Attraction: How Your Nose Can Help You Select a Suitable Partner" (Dr. Johan Lundström) and "A New Formula: A Behind the Scenes Look at the Wagner's Building Conservation Plan" (Dorothy Krotzer, Marlene Goeke).
• Laurel Hill Cemetery: Hosts historical tours such as "An Old Cemetery in a New Year," "A Dream within a Dream: Rousing Edgar Allan Poe," and "'Til Death do Us Part: The Love Stories of Laurel Hill."

Other Notable Events

• Delaware Valley Amateur Astronomers: Meetings include talks on "Evolution of the Flat Galaxy" and "Solar Sights, Storms, and Sounds."
• American Revolution Round Table of Philadelphia (ARRTOP): Meetings feature speakers on topics like "George Washington's America" and "Revolutionary War Spies of Pennsylvania."
• 13th ANNUAL GEN. MEADE SOCIETY SYMPOSIUM: "Philadelphia on the Home Front in the Civil War."
• Regol Concerts: Presents a Jazz Luncheon featuring The Lenny Pierro Group.
• 3rd Regiment Infantry United States Colored Troops: Civil War Re-enactors event at Fort Mifflin.

PhACT Membership and Contributions

PhACT encourages support through annual memberships, with options for email or US Mail delivery. Donations are also welcomed, particularly for the High School Science Fair Student Prize Funds. The publication "Phactum" is described as the main propaganda organ for PhACT.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The PhACT Calendar consistently promotes events that encourage critical thinking, scientific literacy, and an appreciation for history and culture. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting accessible, educational, and engaging public events, particularly those with a connection to Philadelphia and its institutions. There is a clear emphasis on science, history, and intellectual discourse, aligning with the goals of a skeptical and scientific community organization. The calendar also highlights the importance of education and the sharing of knowledge through various public forums.