Phactum - 2013 02 - February

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: February 2013
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Main Articles and Features

Behavioral Economics and the Libertarian Paternalism Approach to Policy

This issue's cover story, featuring Professor John Ruscio, explores the emerging discipline of behavioral economics. It delves into how cognitive limitations and biases influence decision-making. The article introduces the concept of "libertarian paternalism," advanced by Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein, as a policy-making approach. This approach uses "nudges" to guide individuals towards more rational choices while maintaining their freedom of choice. An example provided is changing organ donation from an opt-in to an opt-out system to increase donor rates. The article discusses both the promises and pitfalls of this approach, noting that policy-makers themselves are subject to biases, raising questions about the assurance of nudges leading to rational decisions and the potential for nudges to become coercive.

John Ruscio, a psychology professor at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), is highlighted for his scholarly work in quantitative methods, human judgment, and decision-making. He has published extensively and teaches courses on critical thinking and behavioral economics.

Differentiating Paternalism of a Father versus the Paternalism of the State

A quote from Alexis de Tocqueville (1805-1859) is presented, describing an "immense, tutelary power" of the state that "takes sole charge of assuring their enjoyment and of watching over their fate." Tocqueville likens this to paternal power but notes that it seeks to keep men "irrevocably fixed in childhood." He describes the sovereign extending its arms over society with "petty regulations" that soften, bend, and direct individuals, preventing them from acting on their own, ultimately reducing the nation to "a herd of timid and industrious animals."

Letters to the Editor

Daniel J. Glass argues against the characterization of evolution as semi-unfalsifiable. He posits that evolution, defined as "change in relative gene frequency over generations," is an observable fact. He asserts that the predictions, hypotheses, and theories within the meta-theory of evolution are vulnerable to falsifiability, citing J.B.S. Haldane's example of "fossil rabbits in the pre-Cambrian" as a hypothetical disproof. Glass contends that specific principles like natural and sexual selection are testable and have not been falsified, explaining phenomena like animal coloration based on environmental pressures and mating advantages.

Jennifer A. Mather et al. are cited regarding the difficulty of observing live giant squid, despite sailors' tales. The article mentions Richard Ellis's work and the recent filming of a giant squid in its natural habitat in July 2012, coinciding with a Discovery Channel program.

Don Nigroni notes the ongoing quest to capture footage of a titanic struggle between a sperm whale and a giant squid, evidenced by sucker marks on whales.

Tom Medero is corrected by the editor regarding the attribution of the phrase "You could look it up." The editor clarifies that the phrase originated from a 1941 James Thurber story and was popularized by baseball manager Casey Stengel, not Yogi Berra.

Howard J. Wilk contributes two letters. The first corrects the attribution of "You could look it up." The second discusses the concept of immortality, referencing Greek mythology's Tithonus and quoting Woody Allen's desire to achieve immortality "through not dying."

Mitchell Brown critiques the approach of "what-if" thinking in science, contrasting it with the need to explain observed phenomena. He argues that theories like Thor Hyerdahl's demonstration of balsa-wood boat sailing or the Hollow Earth theory are based on "what-iffism" rather than addressing existing problems, unlike the theory of continental drift.

Various Ruminations (Collected/Written by Ray Haupt)

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): An Israeli company has developed a helmet-based therapy using magnetic fields to treat depression, with potential applications for Parkinson's disease, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PTSD.

Darwin Day Resolution in Congress: House Resolution 41, introduced by Congressman Rush Holt, aims to designate February 12th as Darwin Day. However, it faces challenges as Holt is the sole sponsor, and a similar bill in 2011 died in committee. The article questions Darwin's suitability as a symbol due to anti-Darwin sentiment and his non-American origin.

Joseph Leidy (1823-1893): The article proposes Joseph Leidy, a Philadelphia-born scientist, as an alternative icon of science and reason, especially if Darwin faces resistance. Leidy, a physician and researcher, made significant contributions, including analyzing blood for a murder mystery and proving trichinosis was caused by a parasite. He was instrumental at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia and the Wagner Free Institute of Science, where he reorganized its museum based on Darwinian principles.

Voice Programmed Radionic Potentizer: A device available for $395 that claims to prepare homeopathic remedies by modulating energy waves, allowing for "Remote Copying" of remedies.

Intelligent Design and State Legislatures: The article discusses legislative efforts in various states, particularly Missouri, to address the teaching of evolution and intelligent design in science classrooms. It highlights the ambiguity and potential for manipulation in proposed bills that require equal time for non-verifiable identities.

Witchcraft is Alive and Well

This section reports on the continued practice and prosecution of witchcraft in various parts of the world. In Papua New Guinea, a woman was burned to death for alleged sorcery. In India, witchcraft charges are common, often motivated by financial gain. Saudi Arabia criminalizes witchcraft, with a high percentage of those arrested being female. Africa also sees widespread accusations, often driven by relatives seeking property. The article contrasts these practices with the tolerance of faith healing (white magic).

Meeting Report - January 2013: Media Myths: A lecture by Professor W. Joseph Campbell

Mark Meyer reports on a lecture by Professor W. Joseph Campbell, who discussed media-created myths. Three examples were presented:

1. The War of the Worlds broadcast: Campbell argued that the reported nationwide panic was largely fabricated by newspapers, which were reliant on wire services and competing with radio.
2. The Cronkite Moment: The anecdote of President Lyndon B. Johnson's reaction to Walter Cronkite's Vietnam report is presented as a myth, with inconsistencies in the timing, location, and wording.
3. The Watergate Scandal: Campbell suggested that the perception of Woodward and Bernstein as the sole agents who brought down Nixon is an oversimplification, ignoring the contributions of other agencies and the significance of the incriminating tapes.

Campbell emphasized the importance of debunking these myths to respect truth, distinguish fact from fiction, and understand the subtle power of the media.

Spring 2013 Adult Education Courses

Information is provided about free adult education courses offered by the Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia, including "Reading the Landscape of Philadelphia" and a "Beetle Basics" workshop.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking, skepticism towards pseudoscience, and a rational approach to understanding phenomena. It engages with scientific debates, such as evolution, and critiques media portrayals and policy approaches like libertarian paternalism. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based reasoning and challenges unsubstantiated claims, while also providing a platform for diverse viewpoints, as seen in the call for submissions from various groups.

This issue of Phactum, dated February 2013, focuses on books by W. Joseph Campbell, the controversy surrounding domestic drones, and historical accounts of sea monsters. It also includes a detailed calendar of events hosted by PhACT and affiliated organizations in the Philadelphia area.

Books by Dr. W. Joseph Campbell

The magazine features reviews and descriptions of three books authored by W. Joseph Campbell:

Getting It Wrong: Ten of the Greatest Misreported Stories in American Journalism

Published by the University of California Press in 2010, this book examines prominent media-driven myths that are widely believed but often prove apocryphal upon closer examination. Campbell addresses stories related to the Watergate scandal, Walter Cronkite's role in ending the Vietnam War, and William Randolph Hearst's alleged vow to "furnish the war" during the 1898 conflict with Spain. The book also includes cases like the coverage of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, arguing that these myths can perpetuate stereotypes, deflect blame, and exaggerate the media's influence.

The Year That Defined American Journalism: 1897 and the Clash of Paradigms

Published by Routledge in 2006, this book explores the pivotal year of 1897 in American journalism. It highlights a significant transition that redefined the profession, featuring a clash between William Randolph Hearst's "journalism of action" and the detached, fact-based approach of Adolph Ochs of The New York Times, along with an experiment in literary journalism by Lincoln Steffens. The resolution of this conflict ultimately led to the ascendancy of The New York Times' model, which remains the standard for mainstream American journalism. The book introduces a year-study methodology for mass communications research.

Yellow Journalism: Puncturing the Myths, Defining the Legacies

Published by Praeger in 2003, this work reassesses the era of the yellow press. It challenges the notion that the yellow press fomented the Spanish-American War in 1898, contrary to many media historians' arguments. The study presents evidence suggesting that the famous exchange of telegrams between Frederic Remington and William Randolph Hearst, where Hearst allegedly vowed to "furnish the war," likely never occurred. The book also includes a content analysis of leading U.S. newspapers, finding that distinguishing features of the yellow press persist in modern American journalism.

The Norwegian Kraken and the Androsian Lusca

This section, authored by Don Nigroni, explores the legends of the Kraken and the Lusca. It references Bishop Erich Pontoppidan's 1755 description of the Kraken as a massive creature with arms, capable of sinking ships. The text notes that the giant squid, scientifically named in 1857, is now widely accepted as the basis for the Kraken legend. The article then shifts to the Lusca of Andros in the Bahamas, described as a gigantic octopus or half-octopus, half-shark creature inhabiting underwater "blue holes." It discusses how powerful tides and whirlpools in these blue holes may have contributed to the Lusca legend. The author also examines the Maelstrom of Saltstraumen and Moskstraumen in Norway, suggesting that these natural whirlpools, famously referenced by Edgar Allan Poe and Jules Verne, were the phenomena that inspired the legends of the Kraken and other sea monsters, rather than actual sea creatures.

Don Nigroni is a retired economist with a background in economics and philosophy.

The Controversy Over Domestic Drones

Authored by Paul Schlueter III, this article discusses the increasing use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones, for domestic purposes in the United States. While military use of drones is widely accepted, their application by civilian authorities for border patrol, drug trafficking surveillance, locating illegal immigrants, searching for lost individuals, and even traffic citations is raising concerns. The article highlights that police departments are testing drones, and the FAA is relaxing rules for their deployment. The potential for misuse, such as unauthorized surveillance and the possibility of drones being armed, is a significant concern. The author notes that while 67% of Americans find drone use acceptable for tracking criminals, 64% fear privacy invasion. The article also touches upon the hobbyist drone community and the ease with which individuals can build and modify drones.

Paul Schlueter III is serving a life sentence in prison.

Spanish Police Foil Remote-Controlled Zeppelin Jailbreak

A brief news item reports on an incident where Spanish authorities foiled a jailbreak attempt involving a 13-foot model zeppelin laden with climbing gear, planned by associates of a jailed drug trafficker.

PhACT Calendar

The magazine includes a comprehensive calendar of events for February, March, April, May, and September 2013, primarily focused on the Philadelphia area. These events are hosted by PhACT (Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking) and other affiliated organizations, including:

• PhACT Meetings: Held on the third Saturday of most months at the Community College of Philadelphia, featuring discussions on topics like Behavioral Economics and the Museum of Scientifically Proven Supernatural and Paranormal Phenomena.
• Philadelphia Science Festival: Participation with James Randi as a guest speaker.
• PhACT Expedition to the Heinz NWR: A search for the "Ape Boy" of the Chester Swamps.
• AIDS Denialism Talk: A presentation by Nicoli Nattrass.
• Lectures and Events: A variety of talks and presentations are scheduled at various institutions, including:
• The Institute for Religion and Science, discussing "Darwin and Religion: Rumors of Warfare in a Post-Darwinian Age" and "The Emergent Christ."
• The Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge, featuring a discussion on "Native Americans' American Revolution."
• The Chemical Heritage Foundation, with a talk on "Early Periodic Tables of the Elements."
• Philadelphia Nerd Nite.
• University of Pennsylvania Museum, with an evening lecture on "Great Battles" focusing on Cleopatra.
• The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, presenting "The Universe Within: Discovering the Common History of Rocks, Planets, and People."
• The Franklin Institute, hosting the Rittenhouse Astronomical Society.
• The Delaware Valley Amateur Astronomers meetings.
• Discussions on "Visualizing Vapors: The Shift from Smell to Smoke in Defining Air Quality."
• A presentation on "The Jewish Problem in American Medical Education and Its Modern Implications."

Submissions for the PhACT Calendar are open to members and non-members for events of general interest to the skeptical or scientific community within a reasonable radius of Philadelphia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum are critical examination of information, skepticism towards extraordinary claims, and an interest in the history of science and media. The magazine promotes a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding phenomena, whether they are historical myths, scientific discoveries, or emerging technologies like drones. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting critical thinking, debunking pseudoscience, and encouraging public engagement with scientific and historical topics through lectures and discussions.

Title: Phactum
Issue: February 2013
Volume: 23
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Phactum, dated February 2013, is a comprehensive listing of events, lectures, and tours taking place primarily in Philadelphia and surrounding areas. The publication serves as the main propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT).

Featured Events and Lectures

February 2013 Events:

• Laurel Hill Cemetery Tours: Several tours are scheduled, including the "Hot Spots and Storied Plots" series on February 22nd, focusing on the cemetery's history, art, and legendary stories. Michael Brooks, Ph.D., is the guide. Another tour, "Literary Laurel Hill," is scheduled for March 3rd, exploring the graves of notable writers.
• Screening of Contagion: On February 25th, The College of Physicians of Philadelphia will host a special screening of the film "Contagion," honoring Anne Schuchat, MD, Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. The event is open to the public with a $5 admission fee.
• Fourteenth Jonathan E. Rhoads Commemorative Lecture: Also on February 26th at The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, Anne Schuchat, M.D., will be honored. The lecture series was established to honor Dr. Jonathan E. Rhoads.
• American Revolution Round Table: On February 27th, Daniel N. Rolph, PhD, will speak on "My Brother's Keeper: Acts of Mercy During the American Revolution" at Brittingham's Irish Pub and Restaurant.
• Year of Proof Lecture: On February 27th at the University of Pennsylvania Museum, Robert K. Wittman, former FBI Senior Investigator and author of "Priceless: How I Went Undercover to Rescue the World's Stolen Treasures," will discuss his work recovering stolen art and cultural property. Admission is free.
• Peter Edelman Lecture: On February 28th at the Free Library of Philadelphia, anti-poverty advocate Peter Edelman will discuss "So Rich, So Poor: Why It's So Hard to End Poverty in America."

March 2013 Events:

• Rittenhouse Astronomical Society Meetings: Monthly meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Fels Planetarium at the Franklin Institute. Meetings are free and no experience is necessary.
• Washington Memorial Chapel Lecture: On March 5th at Valley Forge, Kim Hanley will present a first-person interpretation of Abigail Adams.
• Philadelphia Nerd Nite: On March 6th at Frankford Hall, a "Nerd Nite" event will take place.
• Delaware County Institute of Science Lecture: On March 11th, Tom Reeves will lecture on "Spring Interactions of the Birds, Bees, and Other Players in the Environmental Web."
• Wagner Free Institute of Science Lecture: On March 14th, Dr. Alexandra Horowitz will give an illustrated lecture titled "Observing Dogs," discussing canine cognition and behavior.
• Hands-on Cooking Workshop: On March 16th at the 1696 Thomas Massey House in Broomall, PA, Clarissa Dillon, PhD, will lead a workshop on preparing an 18th-century meal.
• PhACT Event: On March 16th, PhACT President Bob Glickman will lead a discussion on "The Museum of Scientifically Proven Supernatural and Paranormal Phenomena."
• Fort Mifflin Events: On March 17th, there will be a display and demonstration called "Still Working" and a symposium "Soldiers' Fare."
• Laurel Hill Cemetery St. Patrick's Day Tour: On March 17th, a special tour, "Classy Broads and Daring Dames: The Ladies of Laurel Hill," will honor accomplished women buried in the cemetery.
• Chestnut Hill College Lecture: On March 18th, Andrew Newberg, M.D., will present on "Neurotheology."
• Free Library of Philadelphia Lecture: On March 18th, Ben Yagoda will discuss common writing problems and offer advice in his talk "How To Not Write Bad."
• Chemical Heritage Foundation Talk: On March 19th, Victoria Lee will present "Pure Culture: Traditional Industry and Microbial Studies in Early 20th-Century Japan."
• Laurel Hill Cemetery Tours (March): The "Hot Spots and Storied Plots" tour is on March 22nd. "Familiar Philadelphia" is on March 23rd, and "Classy Broads and Daring Dames: The Ladies of Laurel Hill" is on March 24th.

PhACT Information

PhACT (The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking) expresses gratitude to the Community College of Philadelphia for hosting their events. The association publishes Phactum six times a year. Membership is available for $15 annually (email delivery) or $25 (US Mail). Donations are accepted, including those dedicated to the High School Science Fair prizes. The issue lists the PhACT Council for 2012-13, including Bob Glickman as President and Ray Haupt as Editor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the promotion of intellectual engagement through lectures, tours, and screenings, with a strong emphasis on local Philadelphia institutions and historical sites like Laurel Hill Cemetery. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and an appreciation for history and culture, as evidenced by the diverse range of topics covered and the explicit mention of PhACT's mission. The publication also highlights opportunities for public participation and learning.