Phactum - 2012 05 - May

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: May / June / July 2012
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, covers a range of topics from local expeditions and historical toxins to scientific and philosophical inquiries.

PhACT Scientific Expedition to the Blue Hole

On Saturday, May 19, 2012, PhACT organized a scientific expedition to the Blue Hole in the South Jersey Pine Barrens. The Blue Hole is described as a pool of water with unusual temperature variations and is associated with the legend of the Jersey Devil. The expedition aimed to investigate these legendary properties and search for remains of Inskip, a former sawmill site. The guide for the expedition was Don Nigroni, and Eric Krieg, president of PhACT, led the scientific team. Participants were advised to bring insect repellent, sturdy shoes, lunch, and a camera. The event was free.

Directions to the Blue Hole were provided, including GPS coordinates and detailed driving instructions from Philadelphia. The article also references previous Phactum articles about the Blue Hole and the Jersey Devil, as well as links to a movie and a short video related to the Blue Hole legend.

PhACT Picnic

A PhACT picnic was scheduled for Saturday, July 7, 2012, at Mondauk Common Park in Upper Dublin. The event included fun, eating, playing sports, and a book swap. Attendees were encouraged to bring their own food and items to grill.

Edge of the Universe: A Voyage to the Cosmic Horizon and Beyond

On Saturday, September 15, 2012, Dr. Paul Halpern, a physicist and science writer, was scheduled to speak about his book, "Edge of the Universe: A Voyage to the Cosmic Horizon and Beyond." The talk was to cover topics such as the vastness of the observable universe, the concept of the multiverse, and questions about the universe before the Big Bang. Dr. Halpern's research interests include complex and higher-dimensional solutions in general relativity.

Letters to the Editor

Howard J. Wilk contributed two letters. The first addresses the probability of coin flips, referencing John von Neumann's procedure for obtaining fair results from an unfair coin. The second letter discusses strategies for playing the lottery, specifically mentioning playing numbers over 31 and avoiding numbers with 7's, and lists common lottery number patterns.

Various Ruminations

Collected by Ray Haupt, this section covers several distinct topics:

Mayan Calendar and Apocalypse

An article from USA Today suggests that the Mayan Calendar may not end on December 21, 2012, but rather in the 36th Century AD. The section speculates if Harold Camping, a Doomsday Prophesier, is involved. It also mentions a new exhibition at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology titled "MAYA 2012: Lords of Time."

Chiropractic Schools Facing Financial Trouble

Dr. Stephen Barrett reported on financial difficulties faced by chiropractic schools in the US, citing a decline in enrollment and high compensation packages for presidents as contributing factors. The report is based on an analysis from The Chronicle of Higher Education.

JAMA Commentary Blasts NCCAM

This section highlights criticism of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) by Dr. Paul A. Offit. NCCAM is criticized for spending $1.6 billion with little to show for it, sponsoring studies lacking biological underpinning, and not effectively changing behavior based on negative study results. Dr. Offit suggests NCCAM should focus on the placebo response or shift resources to other NIH institutes.

Coincidences

Howard Wilk shared a link to Professor David Spiegelhalter's work on "coincidence" and collecting stories of coincidental happenings. The Understanding Uncertainty website is mentioned for its animated facility showing lottery number frequencies.

Meeting Report - April 2012

"The good old days: They were terrible" - A Lecture by toxicologist David Cragin, Ph.D.

This report, prepared by Marko Kopij, details a PhACT meeting where Dr. David Cragin presented on historical toxins. He discussed the past use of arsenic in items like wallpaper, candles, and cosmetics, and its health effects. He also covered DDT, a pesticide used extensively in agriculture until the 1970s, noting its persistence and environmental impact, including effects on wildlife and potential risks to human health. Dr. Cragin also criticized sources of information on toxic occurrences for spinning stories and emphasized the importance of verifying information from original sources. The lecture concluded with the statement, "Anything is toxic in the right dose."

What's on Your Mind?

The Noble Quest Continues by Tom Medero

Tom Medero discusses the National Institutes for Health's Human Connectome Project, which maps brain connections. He argues that while the project illuminates functionality, it leaves the fundamental philosophical question of how neural activity creates consciousness and thought unanswered. Medero emphasizes the historical importance of philosophy in driving scientific discovery and suggests that the exploration of the mind and consciousness requires a return to philosophical inquiry. He posits that consciousness is a product of neuronal function, likening it to other bodily functions, and that the frontal cortex acts as a 'brake' on the limbic system's primal impulses, enabling cooperation and complex behaviors. He concludes by stating that understanding what makes us human requires addressing the 'how' and 'why' of consciousness, a quest that began with philosophers.

New Book by Paul Barnett

Paul Barnett, a science fiction writer and PhACT speaker, has a new non-fiction book titled "Denying Science: Conspiracy Theories, Media Distortions, and the War Against Reality." The article also mentions his previous HUGO Award wins.

Cancer Treatment

Carl June, MD, of Penn Medicine, was recognized for his work on a "Serial Killer" T Cell Leukemia Treatment, which uses genetically engineered T cells to target cancerous tumors. This research has implications for treating ovarian, pancreatic cancers, and mesothelioma.

Deadly Choices: How the Anti-Vaccination Movement Threatens Us All

This section reviews Paul Offit's book, which details the anti-vaccine movement in America, its origins, leaders, and impact. The book aims to counter misinformation about vaccines and prevent a return to an era of high infectious disease mortality.

How to Become a Certified Heinz NWR Weed Warrior

This announcement describes the Weed Warriors program at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, which aims to restore native plant communities by removing invasive species. It details online training and upcoming in-house workshops and field training dates in May, June, and July 2012.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking, skepticism towards pseudoscience, and an interest in local legends and scientific advancements. There is a clear editorial stance favoring evidence-based reasoning and a healthy skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly in areas like alternative medicine and conspiracy theories. The publication encourages reader participation in discussions and events, fostering a community of critical thinkers. The issue highlights the intersection of science, history, and philosophy, encouraging readers to question and explore complex topics.

Phactum, May/June/July 2012 issue, presents a multifaceted exploration of mutation, science, and historical events. The magazine features articles on the scientific realities of mutation, fictional portrayals in media, a historical case of medical quackery, and the contemporary issue of science denial.

The Realities of Mutation by Paul Schlueter III

This article debunks Hollywood's sensationalized view of mutation, often attributed to radiation or magic. Schlueter explains that mutation is a fundamental aspect of all life, driven by the imprecise duplication of DNA during biological processes. These minor alterations, accumulated over millions of generations, lead to evolutionary changes. While some mutations prove beneficial, enhancing survivability or reproduction, the article contrasts this with fictional portrayals where mutations grant extraordinary, often instantaneous, powers.

The author criticizes sci-fi movies for often instilling fear of scientists and their "irresponsible" curiosity, drawing parallels to Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein." He notes that while some fictional mutations are purely imaginative (like telepathy or mental control of matter), others, such as regenerative abilities, have some basis in natural phenomena, though the speed and extent seen in fiction are unrealistic. The article also touches upon the potential for negative mutations, such as genetic predispositions to diseases or mental disabilities, and the ethical considerations surrounding reproduction when such traits are present.

Schlueter further discusses the human tendency to desire a "superior" breed, referencing historical attempts to control breeding and contrasting them with the natural tendency for interbreeding that confounds such plans. He highlights the ongoing scientific effort to understand DNA and its influences, acknowledging that despite advancements, much remains unknown. The article concludes by emphasizing that overcoming disease and environmental challenges requires a fundamental shift in human behavior and a consciously-directed evolution, a concept he frames as a "sci-fi fantasy."

Cartoon by Dave Lowe

A cartoon by Dave Lowe, titled "ACCIDENTS THE MOTHER OF ALL INVENTION," is featured, depicting a progression of human evolution from ape-like figures to modern humans, culminating in a mushroom cloud, symbolizing the destructive potential of scientific advancement or mutation.

'Like a half-felled cow' – a case of arsenic poisoning in Victorian Scotland by Caroline Rance

This article recounts the tragic case of Mrs. Jean Landess of Paisley, Scotland, in May 1868. Experiencing symptoms she feared were breast cancer, she consulted an unlicensed practitioner named Paterson, a shoemaker with a sideline in treating cancer. Paterson, believing her to have cancer, applied a fly-blister and then an ointment. Mrs. Landess developed severe symptoms, including headaches, vomiting, and a fit, and died shortly after. A post-mortem examination by Professor Douglas Maclagan revealed no breast cancer but confirmed traces of arsenic in her organs. Paterson's salve was found to be 49% arsenic and 51% lard. The article notes that arsenic salves were a common quack treatment for cancer in earlier centuries. Paterson was tried for culpable homicide, and despite his defense of having 20 years of experience and witnesses attesting to his cures, he was found guilty and sentenced to four months in prison. The judge, Lord Ardmillan, stated that "A mere mistake" did not imply culpability.

Caroline Rance is introduced as a writer of historical fiction, with her novel "Kill-Grief" set in a 1750s hospital. She also runs a blog called thequackdoctor.com and is pursuing a MA in Medicine, Science and Society.

Book Reviews

Edge of the Universe: A Voyage to the Cosmic Horizon and Beyond by Paul Halpern

This book, published by Wiley, explores cosmology and the recent revolutions in understanding the universe, including concepts like the multiverse, the Big Bang, and cosmic phenomena.

Denying Science: Conspiracy Theories, Media Distortions, and the War Against Reality by John Grant

Published by Prometheus Books, this work addresses the growing antagonism towards science in contemporary culture. Grant argues that many people reject scientific evidence on issues like global warming, evolution, and vaccinations, often due to ignorance or deliberate misinformation campaigns by ideological and commercial entities. The book surveys various forms of science denial, from fundamentalist creationism to the fossil-fuel industry's attempts to discredit climate science.

PhACT Calendar

The PhACT Calendar lists upcoming events related to science, skepticism, and history in the Philadelphia area. Events include scientific expeditions, picnics, lectures on various scientific topics, historical tours, and art workshops. Notable events include a PhACT Scientific Expedition to the Blue Hole, lectures by Paul Halpern and Michael Gordin, and a talk on "Politics vs Science."

Other Events and Organizations

The Philadelphia Area Center for the History of Science (PACHS) maintains a calendar of events. Several other events are listed, including "Philadelphia Nerd Nite," "Science on Tap," historical cemetery tours, a "Food & Thought" talk by Dr. Bennett Lorber on health impacts of lifestyle choices, and an "Urban Sustainability Forum."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding the world, evident in its critical examination of sensationalized media portrayals of science, its historical investigations into medical practices, and its engagement with contemporary issues like science denial. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific literacy, critical thinking, and a healthy skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, whether they originate from fiction, historical quackery, or modern misinformation campaigns. The inclusion of the PhACT Calendar and other event listings suggests a community focus on promoting scientific and skeptical discourse.

Title: Phactum
Issue Date: May / June / July 2012
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of Phactum, dated May/June/July 2012, serves as a comprehensive listing of upcoming events and activities primarily centered in Philadelphia. The publication focuses on a variety of topics including history, science, culture, and local community gatherings.

Laurel Hill Cemetery Events

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to events hosted at Laurel Hill Cemetery. These include:

• Laurel Hill: The Hot Spots and Storied Plots: Informative tours exploring the cemetery's history, notable figures, and architectural masterpieces. These tours are presented monthly on the fourth Friday.
• BYOB Concert in the Cemetery: Featuring the Philadelphia-based band The Bailey Hounds, offering a musical experience within the cemetery grounds.
• Cinema at the Cemetery: Screenings of neglected films curated by Jay Schwartz, providing a unique outdoor film experience.
• Philadelphia's Fearless Architect 100 Years Later: Remembering Frank Furness: A retrospective tour commemorating the 100th anniversary of Frank Furness's passing, highlighting his architectural legacy and Civil War heroism.
• Coming to America: The Story of Laurel Hill's Immigrants Beyond the Golden Door: A walking tour focusing on the diverse immigrant stories represented within the cemetery.
• The Eighth Annual Gravediggers' Ball: A black-tie event to benefit the Friends of Laurel Hill Cemetery's preservation efforts.

Science and Education Events

PhACT, as an organization focused on critical thinking and science, highlights several educational events:

• Weed Warrior Training Program: A volunteer program at John Heintz National Wildlife Refuge focused on invasive plant species.
• Mega Bad Movie Night!!: An event at The Academy of Natural Sciences featuring a screening of "Sharktopus" with expert commentary.
• Great Riddles in Archaeology Lecture: The Maya and 2012: Fact, Fantasy, and Phenomenon: A lecture at the University of Pennsylvania Museum discussing Maya beliefs about the end of time.
• Science on Tap: A monthly series held at National Mechanics, featuring informal presentations and discussions on various scientific topics. Events include "Do-It-Yourself Evolution: A Historian's Guide to Amateur Plant Breeding" and "Flash! A Quick History of Photography in Motion."
• Philadelphia Nerd Nite: Regular gatherings at Frankford Hall offering science lectures and discussions.
• Calling All Astronomers! Rittenhouse Astronomical Society: Monthly meetings held at The Franklin Institute for astronomy enthusiasts.

Historical and Cultural Events

Beyond cemetery tours, other historical and cultural events are featured:

• Sic Transit Glorious: A Transit of Venus Celebration: A series of events at the American Philosophical Society and Independence National Historical Park, commemorating the astronomical phenomenon and its scientific importance.
• American Revolution Round Table of Philadelphia (ARRTOP): A meeting featuring a talk by Christian McBurney on his book "The Rhode Island Campaign."
• Delaware Valley Opera Company: Performances of operas including "Hansel and Gretel" and "La Somnambula."
• Battle of Belmont Plateau: A Civil War reenactment and living history commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War.

PhACT Information

Phactum is the main propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT), distributed six times a year. The magazine provides information on how to become a supporting member or subscriber, with options for email or US Mail delivery. It also encourages readers to submit letters, essays, and other contributions to the editor, Ray Haupt. The publication also details its policy for article use, allowing reprinting by skeptical organizations under certain conditions.

PhACT's High School Science Fair Student Prize Funds

The magazine solicits donations for PhACT's High School Science Fair Student Prize Funds, outlining the amounts awarded in previous years and the target for the 2013 Prize Fund.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum are community engagement, the promotion of critical thinking, and the celebration of local history and science. The editorial stance is informative and encourages participation in a wide array of intellectual and cultural events. PhACT positions itself as a facilitator for learning and discussion, particularly within the Philadelphia area. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific literacy, historical preservation, and the exploration of diverse cultural narratives. The inclusion of events ranging from cemetery tours to astronomy meetings and historical reenactments suggests a broad interest in understanding the past and present through various lenses.