Phactum - 2011 03 - March

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: March 2011
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Phactum, the newsletter and propaganda organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, dated March 2011, features a prominent cover story titled "DISASTERS: GEOLOGY VS. HOLLYWOOD." It also includes a variety of articles, reports, and event listings, reflecting the organization's focus on critical thinking and skepticism.

PhACT Meeting Announcement

A PhACT Meeting was scheduled for Saturday, March 19, 2011, at 2:00 PM. Dr. David Cattell, Chairman of the Physics Department at Philadelphia Community College, was to host Professor Jon Nyquist, an Environmental Geologist at Temple University. The meeting's theme was "Disasters: Geology vs. Hollywood," aligning with the cover story.

Cover Story: Disasters: Geology vs. Hollywood

The main feature discusses Professor Jon Nyquist's course at Temple University, "Disasters: Geology vs. Hollywood." This course uses movies as a cornerstone to teach science to non-science students. Professor Nyquist, honored for his innovative teaching, has a background in geophysics from Oak Ridge National Laboratory and research focused on aerial geophysical techniques. The article highlights his career and academic achievements, including degrees in physics and geophysics.

Various Ruminations: Chemo Warfare to Chemo Therapy

This section, collected and written by Ray Haupt, explores the historical use of sulphur mustard gas in World War I, detailing its chemical composition (CH2-CH2-S-CH2-CH2-Cl) and its devastating effects, including burns, bone marrow damage, and increased cancer risk. It notes that approximately 5% of soldiers exposed perished, and blindness was a common outcome. The article then transitions to the development of nitrogen mustard (Cl-CH2-CH2-S-CH2-CH2-Cl) in the 1930s, initially stockpiled for combat but later experimented with for cancer treatment. It recounts the story of "J.D.," the first chemotherapy patient, who received intravenous nitrogen mustard in 1942. While J.D. initially showed improvement, his white blood cell count was decimated, and the cancer eventually returned, leading to his death on December 1, 1942. Despite the unfavorable outcome for J.D., the article emphasizes that this marked the birth of a powerful cancer-treating technique, illustrating how scientific progress often involves failed experiments that contribute valuable knowledge.

Mustard Gas and Homeopathy

Continuing the discussion on mustard gas, this segment questions whether it could be used as a homeopathic remedy. It details clinical trials conducted in 1941-42 by homeopathic clinicians in Glasgow and London, who prescribed 30C dilutions of Poison Ivy or Spanish Fly to alleviate symptoms of mustard gas exposure. The article describes Spanish Fly (Cantharides) as an intense irritant derived from the blister beetle, capable of causing severe burns and kidney failure, and notes its illegality worldwide. It also touches upon isopathy, a homeopathic technique treating disease with the causal agent, suggesting treatment of mustard gas injury with mustard gas itself. The article links to the James Lind Library for more information on these trials. The author expresses skepticism about the efficacy of these treatments, particularly the 30C dilutions.

The James Randi Educational Foundation and Homeopathy

This section highlights the James Randi Educational Foundation's (JREF) campaign against homeopathy, including a petition urging pharmacists to acknowledge that homeopathic products are ineffective scams. It mentions the JREF website (www.randi.org) and the New Zealand Skeptics' efforts to expose homeopathy's lack of efficacy. The article explains the "30C" dilution notation used in homeopathic products, illustrating how it signifies extreme dilution far beyond the point where any original substance molecule remains. It provides a link to the New Zealand Skeptics' webpage on homeopathy.

ZyVestra - A Homeopathic Remedy for Vertigo

The article introduces ZyVestra, a homeopathic remedy advertised for vertigo and dizziness relief. It notes that while the product's website (www.zyvestra.com) provides a clinical breakdown of ingredients by Dr. Thomas Latino, the dilution levels are not explicitly stated. Information from the NIH website reveals active ingredients such as Cocculus indicus, Ferrum metallicum, Gelsemium sempervirens, Phytolacca decandra, Pulsatilla, and Silicea, with dilutions ranging from 21X to 55X. The NIH disclaimer is quoted, stating that the product has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or efficacy and that the FDA is unaware of scientific evidence supporting homeopathy. The author expresses skepticism about the significance of these ingredients at such minute dilutions.

Vaccine Lecture at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia

On March 1, 2011, a lecture was held at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia featuring journalist Seth Mnookin and Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccinologist. They discussed anxieties and misinformation surrounding vaccination, particularly concerning children. The article points to Dr. Andrew Wakefield's falsified report linking vaccines to autism as a catalyst for vaccine hysteria, which has led to decreased vaccination rates and increased incidence of communicable diseases. Both speakers discussed their new books on the topic.

Life Came From Outer Space?

This segment introduces the hypothesis of Panspermia, the idea that life exists throughout the universe and is distributed by celestial bodies. It mentions Dr. Richard B. Hoover, an astrobiologist with NASA, who claims to have discovered fossilized bacteria on meteorites recovered in Antarctica. The article provides links to Fox News articles discussing these claims and notes that other NASA scientists have asserted Hoover's claims are not well-substantiated and should have undergone more rigorous peer review.

Book Reviews

The Panic Virus: A True Story of Medicine, Science, and Fear by Seth Mnookin

This book is described as a riveting medical detective story that explores the persistence of conspiracy theories and the limits of rational thought. It details how Andrew Wakefield's falsified report linking the MMR vaccine to autism, despite subsequent studies finding no link, has fueled widespread fear. The book discusses the diversion of research funds, the financial burden on families seeking "miracle cures," and the rise in vaccine-preventable diseases due to declining vaccination rates. It examines how media personalities and journalists have popularized these myths.

Deadly Choices: How the Anti-Vaccine Movement Threatens Us All by Paul A. Offit, M.D.

This book is presented as a sharp exposé of vaccine pseudoscience, written by a vaccinologist from Children's Hospital in Philadelphia. Offit addresses claims that childhood inoculations cause brain damage, autism, diabetes, and cancer, refuting them as misinformation and faulty research. He traces the history of anti-vaccine sentiment, including 19th-century criticisms of the cowpox vaccine, and criticizes celebrity anti-vaccine advocates and media figures. The book focuses more on the science than the sociology of the controversy, aiming to dismantle anti-vaccine notions and warn about the resurgence of deadly childhood infections.

Gambling Notes

This section includes brief news items related to gambling: a Catholic church in the Philippines banning funeral masses if gambling occurs during wakes, a former music teacher in Florida accused of stealing instruments to fund a gambling addiction, and a report on the effectiveness of problem gambling treatment programs from UNLV.

First Philadelphia Science Festival

The issue promotes the First Philadelphia Science Festival, scheduled for April 15-28, 2011. This citywide event involves over 100 organizations and aims to showcase science and technology through various programs, including lectures, hands-on activities, and exhibits. The festival is presented by The Dow Chemical Company and organized by The Franklin Institute. Several specific events are listed, such as discussions on cancer with Siddhartha Mukherjee, innovation with Dean Kamen, critical decision-making with Judge John E. Jones, augmented reality, and a portrayal of Marie Curie. The festival also includes "Science Cafés" focusing on topics like miracle berries, chocolate, and beer, as well as neighborhood science events and a "Big Jump" stunt.

Meeting Report(s): David Clark - "Destructive Cults"

This section contains reports prepared by Pavel Itersky and Said Elmenyawy, physics students of Dr. David Cattell, on a lecture by David Clark about "Destructive Cults." Itersky's report highlights Clark's insights into the destructive nature of cultism, mind control, hypnosis, and psychological damage, including instances of suicide linked to brainwashing methods. He defines destructive cults as groups where individuals break away from families and alienate relationships, emphasizing deception and the discarding of ethical principles. The report notes that cults recruit on college campuses and stresses the importance of understanding their tactics.

Elmenyawy's report details David Clark's presentation, which began with a personal experience of a cult member's suicide. Clark noted that many cults have changed names and are still dangerous. He defined a cult as accepting information without question and discussed how cults, protected by the First Amendment, operate freely. The report explains that cults exert extraordinary control over members' lives and use brainwashing. It traces the historical meaning of "cultus" and "cult," noting that in the US, "cult" is used similarly to "sect" in Europe. The report concludes by defining destructive cults as organizations where individuals devote their lives, time, and income, with leaders effectively exploiting human dependency and attachment needs. A quote from Daniel Shaw, a former member of Siddha Yoga, is included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phactum strongly emphasizes critical thinking, skepticism towards pseudoscience (particularly homeopathy and anti-vaccine sentiments), and the importance of scientific literacy. The editorial stance is clearly against unsubstantiated claims and promotes evidence-based reasoning. The publication actively engages with scientific discourse, reviews books that challenge misinformation, and promotes events that foster scientific understanding. The inclusion of the James Randi Educational Foundation's campaign against homeopathy and the critical reviews of books on vaccines and cults underscore the publication's commitment to debunking what it perceives as harmful or irrational beliefs.

Phactum, March 2011 issue. This issue features articles on cults, immunotherapy for cancer treatment, human sexuality and evolutionary development, and the scientific concept of falsifiability. It also includes a poetry section and a calendar of upcoming events.

Articles

Understanding Cults

This article explores the deceptive and manipulative tactics employed by cult organizations. It highlights how cults foster closed-mindedness, use double meanings in language, and often require a financial investment for access to 'special knowledge.' The text describes how cult leaders can exert control through information overload, systematic creation of helplessness, and manipulation of reward and punishment. Hypnosis and nonverbal signs are mentioned as tools used to influence members. A study involving a mathematics and physics graduate student who lost abilities after being in a cult is cited. The article also references Margaret Singer's six steps of cult thought control and lists several cult organizations, including "Legionaries of Christ," "Forever Family," "Unification Church," "Happy Christmas," "World Society Group," "Scientology Group," and "Mormons."

Immunotherapy: The Future of Cancer Treatment

This section discusses the revolutionary field of cancer research at Penn's Abramson Cancer Center, focusing on immunotherapy. It explains that immunotherapy uses the immune system to fight cancer, reduce recurrence, and minimize side effects. The article details various weapons in the immunotherapy arsenal, such as cancer vaccines, T-cell and antibody-based therapies, and novel immunotherapy-boosting agents. It highlights the work of Drs. Carl H. June and David L. Porter, who are genetically modifying patients' immune cells to target leukemia cells. The article also mentions the research of Dr. Robert H. Vonderheide, who is using targeted antibodies to treat pancreatic cancer, with promising results showing partial regression and stabilization of disease in patients.

Is 'FALSIFIABILITY' Understood?

Authored by Paul Schlueter III, this article examines the common misunderstanding of the scientific term "falsifiability." The author argues that while the term is clear within the scientific community, it is often misinterpreted by the public, particularly in discussions about evolution versus creationism. The article suggests that the term "testability" might be a better alternative for public discourse to avoid misinterpretation and confrontation. It criticizes the deliberate misunderstanding of scientific terms by some to support their own beliefs and highlights the importance of understanding how an audience will interpret words, regardless of their precise jargon usage.

Human Sexuality and Evo Devo

This article, also by Paul Schlueter III, explores the intersection of human sexuality and evolutionary development (Evo Devo). It posits that sexual urge has been a primary driver in human evolution and the creation of our species' social behaviors. Evo Devo is described as a science that integrates genetics, paleontology, psychology, and other fields to understand organismal change. The article discusses how fossil evidence, though limited for soft tissues, can provide insights into reproductive systems. It touches upon the tendency for pareidolia (recognizing familiar objects in random images) and simulacra (objects that appear to be something they are not) in interpreting evidence. The text delves into ancient texts, such as the Epic of Gilgamesh, and discusses the evolution of human sexual behaviors, including the role of jealousy in controlling inbreeding and the potential for opportunistic behavior in traveling men. It also examines how tribal cultures historically viewed women, the concept of 'enemy' females in raiding situations, and the potential evolutionary advantage of female beauty. The article contrasts tribal views with modern societal norms and discusses the impact of genetics and historical events, like those involving Genghis Khan and Alexander the Great, on human lineage. It also touches upon the biblical perspective on sexuality, noting its focus on male behavior and apparent ignorance of the female orgasm.

Old Lady Hip Accident

This section features a poem titled "Old Lady Hip Accident" by Albert Fried-Cassorla, based on a true conversation. The poem captures an elderly woman's reflections on her hip injury, her husband's death, and her own mortality.

PhACT Calendar

The PhACT Calendar lists upcoming events, including meetings on "Real Geology vs Hollywood Disaster Movies," a discussion on "Science and the Court Room" featuring Judge John Jones, an annual PhACT Banquet, and a Delaware Valley Mensa meeting discussing the Soviet acquisition of atomic bomb secrets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical and scientific viewpoint, evident in its articles on cults, the defense of scientific principles like falsifiability, and the exploration of evolutionary biology. There is a clear emphasis on critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific inquiry and rational explanation over dogma or unsubstantiated beliefs. The inclusion of a calendar for PhACT (presumably a skeptical or scientific organization) further reinforces this theme.

Title: Phactum
Issue Date: March 2011
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)

This issue of Phactum, the publication of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, serves as a comprehensive calendar of events, lectures, and discussions happening in and around Philadelphia during March 2011. It highlights a diverse array of topics, from scientific inquiry and historical exploration to cultural events and skeptical analysis.

Featured Events and Lectures

Science and Skepticism

The magazine prominently features events related to science and skepticism. A talk by Mr. Hornblum, author of "The Invisible Harry Gold," is mentioned, focusing on his experience as an "imprisoned human guinea pig" and his books that have received international attention. The National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS) is hosting a meeting with Dr. Elisabeth Cornwell discussing "Madison Avenue or Charles Darwin: Who Invented Beauty?", exploring evolutionary psychology and human mate selection.

History and Culture

Several events delve into historical and cultural themes. A tour of Laurel Hill Cemetery, "The Quick and the Dead: Early Transportation to Philadelphia's Final Destination," explores the history of transportation in the region. The "Science on Tap" series features Christine Bartos from the Philadelphia Zoo discussing "Living the High Life: Insights on the Private Lives of Giraffes." The Kate Hurd-Mead Lecture at Drexel University College of Medicine will cover "Lesions of the Will or Wounds of the Spirit?: Shellshock in Women in World War I." The "American Revolution Round Table of Philadelphia (ARRTOP)" has several scheduled talks, including one featuring Kim Hanley as Abigail Adams and another on "The Quotable Ethan Allen" by Kevin Graffagnino.

Environmental and Urban Issues

Discussions on environmental topics include "Impacts of Marcellus Shale Drilling on Pennsylvania Agriculture" hosted by The Academy of Natural Sciences. The "Local Food - Safe Food: Bringing it to Market" program addresses challenges in distributing and regulating local, sustainable food.

Science and Technology

Events related to science and technology include a lecture on "Neuroeconomics: Decision Making and the Brain" by Joe Kable at Penn. The University City Science Center is highlighted as a hub for innovation, with a talk by its President and CEO, Stephen Tang.

Civil War Commemorations

The issue extensively covers Civil War reenactments and commemorative events. The "22nd Annual Neshaminy Civil War Reenactment" and the "Battle of Belmont Plateau - Civil War Reenactment" are detailed, offering living history and battle reenactments. The "3rd Regiment Infantry United States Colored Troops Civil War Re-enactors" will present programs at Fort Mifflin. The "General George G. Meade Society" is also active with events like the "Annual Grand Army Museum Preservation Dinner" and the "Re-Dedication of the repaired monument to Col. Edwin Glenn."

Other Notable Events

Other events include a lecture on "The Foundations of Morality: Biology, Religion, Culture" by Francisco J. Ayala, and a talk by Mark W. Moffett on "Adventures Among Ants." The "Northeast Conference on Science & Skepticism 2011" is announced, focusing on the intersection of science, skepticism, media, and society. The issue also features a discussion on "Rose Is a Rose Is a Rose...Or Is It? If Empress Josephine Met Gertrude Stein," exploring the symbolism of roses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phactum, as the organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, consistently promotes a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding the world. The recurring themes include the promotion of scientific literacy, critical thinking, and skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims and unsubstantiated beliefs. The magazine actively advertises events that encourage intellectual engagement, informed discussion, and the exploration of diverse fields of knowledge. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific inquiry, historical accuracy, and the debunking of myths and misconceptions, as evidenced by the types of speakers and topics featured. The emphasis on events related to science, skepticism, and critical analysis underscores PhACT's mission to foster a more informed and discerning public.