Phactum - 2013 08 - August

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: August/September 2013
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum, the newsletter and propaganda organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, dated August/September 2013, features a strong focus on skepticism, science, and the critique of pseudoscience and conspiracy theories. The cover headline highlights "The AIDS Conspiracy: Science Fights Back," setting the tone for several articles within.

PhACT Meeting Announcement

A PhACT meeting is announced for Saturday, September 21, 2013, at the Community College of Philadelphia. The event will host Dr. David Cattell and Nicoli Nattrass, who will discuss her book 'The AIDS Conspiracy: Science Fights Back.' The meeting is free and open to the public.

The AIDS Conspiracy: Science Fights Back

Nicoli Nattrass's upcoming talk and her book are central to this issue. The article details her focus on the dangers of AIDS conspiracy beliefs, their link to the rejection of evidence-based medicine and unsafe sexual behavior, and the role of racial repression and medical abuse in their historical context. Nattrass also examines how individual agents promote these beliefs and how pro-science activists counter them. The article notes that AIDS denialism, which argues science has been corrupted, makes a 'conspiratorial move' against HIV science.

Nattrass, director of the AIDS and Society Research Unit at the University of Cape Town and visiting Professor at Yale, has published widely on inequality, AIDS, and antiretroviral treatment. Her work was instrumental in a court case against the then AIDS denialist government of Thabo Mbeki. Her book, 'The AIDS Conspiracy: Science Fights Back,' explores the social roots of these beliefs in the US and South Africa and the role of powerful individuals in shaping them.

Thabo Mbeki and AIDS Denialism

The issue delves into the controversial stance of former South African President Thabo Mbeki on HIV/AIDS. Mbeki, who served from 1999 to 2008, was a vocal opponent of the link between HIV and AIDS and questioned the efficacy of anti-retroviral drugs. Supported by Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, he attributed widespread deaths to other diseases and malnutrition. Mbeki's government withheld anti-retroviral drugs, claiming pharmaceutical companies exaggerated the HIV/AIDS connection for profit and that the drugs were toxic. The article suggests Mbeki's strong anti-colonial feelings fueled his opposition to Western science on this matter, leading to hundreds of thousands of deaths from AIDS. He is described as a leader in repudiating well-founded medical science.

Book Reviews and Related Content

'The AIDS Conspiracy: Science Fights Back' by Nicoli Nattrass: This book is presented with its publication details (March 2012, Columbia University Press). It examines hypotheses about the origins of AIDS, including the idea that the US government manufactured HIV as a biological weapon. It also discusses contemporary AIDS denialism, which claims HIV is harmless and antiretrovirals are the cause of AIDS. Nattrass identifies four key figures in AIDS denialism: hero scientists, cultropreneurs, living icons, and praise singers. The book highlights how pro-science activists fight back with empirical evidence and political credibility.

'Mortal Combat: AIDS Denialism and the Struggle for Antiretrovirals in South Africa' by Nicoli Nattrass: Published by University of KwaZulu-Natal Press in 2007, this book details President Mbeki's adoption of AIDS denialist ideas and their tragic consequences for AIDS policy in South Africa. Nattrass states that an aggressive rollout of ARVs could have prevented at least 170,000 HIV infections and 340,000 deaths in South Africa.

Letters to the Editor

Zionist Conspiracy Theory: Mohamed Mahmoud Khalifa is cited for a British patent application for "Ever-lasting power" and a webpage, alleging a Zionist conspiracy to suppress perpetual motion by "controlling the petroleum." The letter notes the alleged Zionist involvement in Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the UAE, citing Einstein and mentioning Jewish heritage of Google founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page, and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.

Wild Men and Bigfoot: Howard J. Wilk discusses historical accounts of "American feral wild men" from the 19th and early 20th centuries, who were believed to revert to an animalistic state. He references articles about "James Miller, the 'Wild Man of Haycock'" and "Adam Weaver, the 'wild man' of Quakertown," later identified as Roy Hecox. Wilk suggests that belief in such beings faded because people could no longer accept such transformations, unlike the persistent belief in Bigfoot.

Buckminster Fuller Coincidence: Howard J. Wilk shares a personal anecdote about his wife using the name "Bucky" and "Buckminster Fuller" for their dog, coincidentally after he had just encountered the name Fuller in a Scientific American article. His wife also mistook a photo of chemist R. B. Woodward for Buckminster Fuller.

Various Ruminations of Woo Woo and Real Science

BBC Supporting Homeopathic Treatment of HIV/AIDS in Tanzania: This section criticizes the BBC for uncritically presenting a story about homeopathic "doctors" dispensing "cures" to people with HIV in Tanzania. It mentions the Quackometer and the organization "Homeopathy for Health in Africa (HHA)," which operates clinics in Tanzania, claiming to help through homeopathy, a claim deemed misleading and potentially deadly.

Alternative Medicine, Is It A Cult?: An essay by Dr. Edzard Ernst is reviewed, drawing parallels between alternative medicine and cults. Ernst points out the authoritarian nature of cults, the suppression of dissenting information, and the barrage of misinformation. He concludes that the most striking parallel is the effective extinguishing of cognitive dissonance through a constant flow of misinformation, akin to brain-washing.

GIANT Virus from Mars: A Mail Online report about the discovery of Pandoravirus, a virus ten times larger than normal with only 6% of previously observed genes, is mentioned. Some scientists speculate it came from Mars.

New Teen Paranormal Romance: A sign at Barnes and Noble advertising this genre is noted with a sense of dismay, suggesting a societal trend.

Dolphin-Assisted Birth: A report about a couple flying from North Carolina to Hawaii for an underwater dolphin-assisted birth is mentioned, with the couple seeking "peace, comfort, and strength" but having no concrete plans for their future.

Psychiatry: An Industry of Death Museum

This section reviews a museum in Los Angeles operated by the Citizens Committee on Human Rights (CCHR), affiliated with the Church of Scientology. The museum critiques psychiatry and psychiatric drugs, highlighting historical treatments like electro-convulsive therapy and isolation chambers. CCHR advocates for the abolition of the psychiatric profession, suggesting Dianetics as an alternative. The author notes that CCHR's opposition may be financially motivated, as Dianetics involves expensive courses. The review advises verifying information presented at the museum and in Scientology literature.

Scientology Alien Landing Pad in New Mexico: A Daily Mail report about the Church of Scientology building a mile-long landing strip for alien spaceships in New Mexico is mentioned. The area is marked for Scientologists to return after a nuclear holocaust.

Real Science, Real Medicine

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP): This section details the history of CHOP, founded in 1855 as the first children's hospital in the United States. It traces its relocations and affiliations, noting its significant medical achievements, particularly in vaccinology, including the development of vaccines for whooping cough, influenza, mumps, and rotavirus. CHOP was ranked as the best children's hospital in the US by U.S. News and World Report.

'Do You Believe in Magic?: The Sense and Nonsense of Alternative Medicine' by Paul A. Offit: This book review, written by Dr. David Cragin, examines the historical origins and scientific basis of various alternative medicine practices like chiropractic and acupuncture. Offit provides historical context and modern scientific findings, discussing the disciplines of alternative medicine and their effectiveness. The reviewer praises the book for its in-depth look at an area often perceived as risk-free.

PhACT Council Member and Speaker

Dr. David Langdon, a PhACT Council member, is a physician at CHOP. The issue announces Dr. Paul Offit as the PhACT speaker on October 19, who will discuss his book "Do You Believe in Magic?: The Sense and Nonsense of Alternative Medicine." A book signing will follow.

Other Books and Reviews

'Science and Modern Thought in Nursing: Pragmatism & Praxis for Evidence-Based Practice' by Bernie Garrett: This e-book is reviewed by Peterson Masigan. It is described as suitable for anyone interested in the history and philosophy of science, advocating for Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in nursing and challenging discredited topics like Therapeutic Touch.

'Charles Darwin: A Graphic Biography' by Eugene Byrne and Simon Gurr: Daniel Glass reviews this book, which presents a serious biography of Darwin in a comic book style.

Australian Chiropractors Warned Against Opposing Vaccination

Dr. Stephen Barrett of Quackwatch.org reports that the Chiropractic Board of Australia has ordered chiropractors to remove anti-vaccination material from their websites and clinics. This action is seen as a positive development in promoting science and reason.

Meeting Report - May 2013

Report on the PhACT Expedition to find the Ape Boy of the Swamps at the Heinz National Wildlife Refuge: Dave Blythe reports on a PhACT expedition to the Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. The expedition's stated goal was to search for the "Ape Boy of the Swamps," a cryptid. The report details the hike, the participants (including Weed Warriors), and the wildlife observed. Despite the lack of cryptid evidence, the day is described as a "history lesson, scenic walk, nice weather, pleasant conversation and a filling lunch."

Call for Submissions

The issue concludes with an encouragement for PhACT members and readers to submit essays and letters on various topics, including science, pseudoscience, and alternative medicine, adhering to Hemingway's advice to "write one true sentence."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum are skepticism, critical thinking, and the promotion of science and evidence-based reasoning. The editorial stance is clearly against pseudoscience, conspiracy theories (particularly regarding AIDS), and unsubstantiated claims in alternative medicine. The magazine actively debunks or questions claims related to homeopathy, Scientology, and various conspiracy narratives, while celebrating scientific achievements and the importance of empirical evidence. There is a consistent effort to educate readers and encourage them to question and analyze information critically.

Title: Phactum
Issue: August/September
Year: 2013

This issue of Phactum covers a diverse range of topics, from local wildlife and historical exploration to cognitive science, education, and a book review.

Heinz Happenings: Beavers at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge

The issue opens with an article on the presence of North American Beavers at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. The article highlights the beavers' activity, such as gnawing trees and building dams, as a sign of a healthy habitat. It notes that beavers' teeth grow continuously, requiring them to gnaw wood to keep them short. Adult beavers weigh between 35 to 60 pounds and have good hearing and a strong sense of smell, compensating for poor eyesight. They can swim well and stay underwater for up to 15 minutes. Other aquatic mammals recently seen at Heinz include River Otters, Mink, and Muskrats. The article also provides contact information for the John Heinz NWR and a link for nature walks and programs.

Sir Humphrey Gilbert and the Sea Lion

This section delves into a historical account of Sir Humphrey Gilbert's voyage in 1583. An eyewitness, Edward Hayes, described an encounter with a creature that resembled a lion, which swam by sliding on the water. The creature had a "horrible voice, roaring or bellowing as doth a lion" and "ugly demonstration of long teeth, and glaring eyes." Gilbert interpreted this as a good omen. The article explores various interpretations of this creature, with sources suggesting it was a great seal or sea-lion. Further research, particularly from William Gilbert Gosling's work, identifies the creature as a walrus. The article compares the description to the walrus, noting its shape, hair, color, whiskers, and vocalizations, concluding that the "lion in the ocean sea" was indeed a walrus, characterized by its yellowish facial whiskers resembling a lion's mane, tusks like long teeth, and roaring sounds when excited.

Sir Humphrey Gilbert (1539-1583) is introduced as an English nobleman, Army officer, Member of Parliament, and explorer. His career included attempts to establish English settlements in Ireland and a search for a Northwest Passage. He founded an English settlement in Newfoundland and is said to have believed in the lost continent of Atlantis. His expedition in 1578 was attacked, and he later sailed again in 1583 with five ships, landing in Newfoundland and claiming the area for Queen Elizabeth I. His ill-fated expedition ended when his boat, the "Squirrel," sank near the Azore Islands on September 9, 1583, resulting in his death. He was the step-brother of Sir Walter Raleigh.

Book Review: Science and Modern Thought in Nursing

This review covers "Science and Modern Thought in Nursing: Pragmatism & Praxis for Evidence-Based Practice" by Dr. Bernie Garrett. The book explores the evolution of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in nursing, examining the historical development of science and its philosophical underpinnings. It is geared towards nursing students and practicing nurses, encouraging them to consider the role of science and EBP in their practice. The book includes historical surveys, discussions on important concepts in scientific inquiry, alternative philosophies to empirics-based sciences, and the issues of using intuition versus EBP. It also touches upon bad science and pseudoscience in healthcare and discusses the future of science and EBP in the nursing profession. The reviewer notes the book's clear summaries, discussion questions, and helpful optical illusion diagrams. While some chapters lean towards philosophy, the book is praised for its wit and organization. It is available in e-book formats.

Adult Education Course Schedule - Fall 2013

The Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia offers a schedule of free adult education courses for Fall 2013. These include "Natural History from Antiquity to Now" with Professor Jane E. Boyd, "From Death, to Recovery, to Museums: The Curious Lives of Human Remains" with Professor Janet Monge, and "Birds and Birding" with Professor Clifford Hence. These courses are open to the public and are taught at a university undergraduate level.

2013 Philadelphia Honey Festival

The Philadelphia Beekeepers Guild presents the 2013 Philadelphia Honey Festival, in partnership with the Wagner Free Institute of Science, Wyck Historic House and Garden, and Bartram's Garden. The festival took place from September 6-8, 2013.

Alternative Blindness

This article by Paul Schlueter III defines "Alternative Blindness" as a cognitive failure to recognize or consider alternative explanations or scenarios that might be superior to the initial hypothesis. The author argues that people often feel they have "no other choice" due to cognitive biases, social habits, and cultural expectations. This can manifest in criminal behavior, interpersonal conflicts, and even scientific research. The article contrasts this with indecisiveness, suggesting a need for a balance between conservatism and progressivism. It uses examples ranging from everyday decisions to the scientific method and the challenges faced by creationists.

Book Learning vs. Street Smarts

Another article by Paul Schlueter III, "Book Learning vs. Street Smarts," explores the historical dilemma between theoretical knowledge gained through education and practical, experiential knowledge. Using the Wright brothers' development of powered flight as an example, the article illustrates how both book learning and hands-on experience are crucial. It discusses how this dichotomy often leads to social stratification, with the "undereducated class" often distrusting the "book-learned" and valuing their own "street smarts." The article touches upon the potential for both positive and negative outcomes for individuals who rely solely on one or the other, and the societal implications of this divide.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the exploration of nature and history, the importance of critical thinking and diverse perspectives (as seen in the "Alternative Blindness" and "Book Learning vs. Street Smarts" articles), and the value of education and scientific inquiry. The magazine appears to promote a balanced approach to knowledge, valuing both empirical evidence and historical context, while also encouraging intellectual curiosity and open-mindedness.

This issue of Phactum, dated August/September, delves into the societal divide between intellectual and 'undereducated' classes, exploring the nature of belief systems, skepticism, and the challenges of communication. The magazine also provides a comprehensive calendar of upcoming events in the Philadelphia area related to science, history, and culture.

The Divide Between 'Book-Heads' and the 'Undereducated'

The lead article discusses the perceived chasm between those who rely on 'rationality,' 'science,' or 'reason' and those who do not. The author posits that the 'undereducated' class, often portrayed in media like Hollywood, are proud of their ignorance and actively seek out the most outlandish beliefs, viewing them as superior if disliked by intellectuals or the government. This is contrasted with the 'bookish' class, who are seen as untrustworthy by the 'undereducated.' The article notes the satisfaction derived from seeing skeptics dramatically change their minds in movies, suggesting this is a narrative catering to the undereducated viewer's desire for validation. The author observes that people rarely cross class lines once they've adopted a belief system, and that the 99% often compete to believe the most outlandish things, proudly asserting their disregard for anything that makes sense.

A perplexing observation is made about the apparent link between the 'Conservative Right,' wealthy business tycoons, and religious fanatics, noting a disconnect between positions of power and acceptance of scientific evidence on issues like climate change, abortion, and healthcare. The article suggests that while one might expect book learning to align with rationalism, individuals are often quirky.

The piece concludes that deeply held beliefs, formed in childhood, are difficult to change, regardless of whether they stem from 'street smarts' or 'book learning.' When opposing viewpoints recognize each other, communication breaks down due to erected defenses. The phenomenon of 'conservation bias' is identified, where individuals only seek out information that reinforces their existing beliefs.

The author questions the purpose of trying to persuade those with opposing views, acknowledging that occasional individuals may become discouraged with their belief systems and become open to other arguments. The drive to reinforce one's own beliefs and persuade others is framed as a continuous, uneven contest for social dominance. The article humorously suggests that while persuading the 'ignorant' and preaching to one's 'choir' can be a way to spend idle time, one could also simply 'read another book.'

Editor's Note

An editor's note highlights the situation of Paul Schlueter III, who has served over 27 years in prison and has been an adult literacy tutor, tutor trainer, and council board member for twenty years. The note details the abrupt shutdown of the prison's Laubach tutoring program, an inmate-led initiative, by the prison administration as part of a broader effort to end inmate peer-teaching programs.

PhACT Calendar

The PhACT Calendar section provides a detailed listing of upcoming events, primarily in the Philadelphia area, spanning September 2013 through January 2014. These events cover a wide range of topics, including:

• AIDS Denialism: A talk by Nicoli Nattrass on 'The AIDS Conspiracy: Science Fights Back.'
• Alternative Medicine: A discussion by Dr. Paul Offit on 'Do You Believe in Magic?: The Sense and Nonsense of Alternative Medicine.'
• Literary Events: Performances of Edgar Lee Masters' 'Spoon River Anthology' at Laurel Hill Cemetery, featuring local actors and artists.
• Historical and Cultural Events: The Philadelphia Honey Festival, an '18th Century Tavern' event discussing historical foods and drinks, and a 'Graveyard Cabaret' performance.
• Science and History Lectures: 'Science on Tap' gatherings featuring informal presentations by scientists, lectures on the history of science, medicine, and empire, and discussions on topics like Victorian natural history and chemical information.
• Astronomical Meetings: Monthly meetings of the Rittenhouse Astronomical Society.
• Paranormal Investigations: A 'Ghosts Among Our Graves' workshop and ghost hunt at Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• Thematic Tours: Tours of Laurel Hill Cemetery focusing on historical figures, 'Hot Spots and Storied Plots,' 'Sinners, Scandals and Suicides,' and 'What a Way to Go! Strange Exits and Freakish Ends.'
• Author Talks: Presentations by authors such as Salman Rushdie, Martin Amis, Jill Lepore, Louise Aronson, and Eric Schlosser.
• Special Interest Events: A 'Cinema in the Cemetery' Halloween movie screening, a 'Newlin Grist Mill Harvest Festival,' and discussions on topics like 'Red Dwarf Stars and Little Green People?' and 'The Voyages of Chinese Explorer Zheng He.'

The calendar emphasizes that PhACT events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted, and provides contact information and websites for further details and registration. It also notes that the PhACT Calendar is open to announcements from other groups and does not accept paid advertising.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the promotion of scientific literacy, critical thinking, and rationalism, often in contrast to superstition, pseudoscience, and unsubstantiated beliefs. The magazine appears to advocate for evidence-based reasoning and a skeptical approach to claims, particularly those that lack scientific backing. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging engagement with scientific discourse and historical inquiry, as evidenced by the diverse range of events listed in the calendar. The publication also shows a commitment to community engagement by providing a platform for various organizations and events, particularly those in the Philadelphia area, and by highlighting issues of educational access, as seen in the editor's note.

Title: Phactum
Issue: August/September 2013
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of Phactum, dated August/September 2013, serves as the main propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT). It details upcoming events and provides information on membership and contributions.

Upcoming Events and Lectures:

• Data Management and Navigation: A talk on Tuesday, October 15, 2013, at the Free Library of Philadelphia, focusing on data-driven systems, information management, and best practices for chemical information management. This event is free and open to the public.

• "The Collaboration: Hollywood's Pact with Hitler": On Tuesday, October 15, 2013, at the Free Library of Philadelphia, Ben Urwand will discuss his book, revealing how Hollywood studios cooperated with the Third Reich, including script alterations and the production of German armaments by MGM.

• "What's (Not) New in Antibiotics and Why.": A "Food & Thought" presentation on Wednesday, October 16, 2013, at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. This session will address the growing problem of antibiotic resistance, discussing the factors contributing to it and the slowdown in the development of new therapeutic products.

• "Spirits on the Stage: Our Residents Speak": A Halloween-themed theatrical event at Laurel Hill Cemetery from Thursday, October 17, to Saturday, October 19, 2013. The "Not Ready for Afterlife Players" will perform short theatrical pieces based on the stories of notable permanent residents of the cemetery. Performances begin at 7:00 PM, with general admission costing $20.

• PhACT Event with Dr. Paul Offit: On Saturday, October 19, 2013, at 2:00 PM, Dr. Paul Offit will discuss his new book, “Do You Believe in Magic?: The Sense and Nonsense of Alternative Medicine.” Further details are available on page 7.

• Harvest Fair: On Saturday, October 19, 2013, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at The 1696 Thomas Massey House in Broomall, PA. 18th Century Historian Clarissa Dillon, Ph.D., will guide visitors through the historical garden.

• Civil War Hospital Day: On Saturday, October 19, 2013, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. This event will recreate the atmosphere of wartime Philadelphia, featuring re-enactors from the 3rd Regiment, United States Colored Troops, displays on medical practices, and the contribution of black soldiers. The event is free with museum admission.

Membership and Support:

PhACT offers annual memberships for $15 (with email delivery of Phactum) or $10 for students. US Mail delivery is available for $25. Donations are also welcomed for additional support or to dedicate funds for High School Science Fair prizes. Checks should be made payable to PhACT and mailed to their Glenside, PA address.

Editorial Stance and Policy:

Phactum is distributed six times a year and serves as the main propaganda organ for PhACT. The publication welcomes letters of rebuttal, ideas, short essays, poetry, opinion pieces, complaints, and praise, to be sent to the editor, Ray Haupt. Materials originating in Phactum may be reprinted by groups recognized in CSI's international network of skeptics organizations, provided credit is given to the author and PhACT. Other publications must obtain permission from PhACT. Permission for articles and illustrations from other sources must be granted by the original publisher.

Acknowledgements:

The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking expresses gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Community College of Philadelphia and Dr. David Cattell, Chair of the Physics Department, for hosting PhACT and providing access to their facilities.

PhACT Council 2012/13:

The issue lists the members of the PhACT Council for 2012/13, including Bob Glickman (President), Dr. David Cragin (Vice-President), Susan Glickman (Treasurer), Becky Strickland (Secretary), Eric Krieg (Past President), Wes Powers (Webmaster), Mike Caro, David Cattell Ph.D., Ray Haupt, Dr. David Langdon, M.D., and Tom Napier.

Website:

The PhACT website is listed as www.phact.org.

Notable Quote:

The issue includes a quote from Joseph Addison: "A man must be excessively stupid, as well as uncharitable, who believes that there is no virtue but on his own side, and that there are not men as honest as himself who may differ from him in political principles."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phactum reflects a strong emphasis on critical thinking, skepticism, and the promotion of scientific and historical understanding. The events highlighted cover a diverse range of topics, from the critical analysis of data and historical events (Hollywood and the Third Reich) to scientific and medical issues (antibiotic resistance, alternative medicine, Civil War medicine). The publication actively encourages engagement through events, membership, and contributions of written material, positioning itself as a platform for intellectual discourse and the dissemination of evidence-based information. The editorial stance is clearly aligned with skeptical inquiry, as evidenced by the policy for article use and the emphasis on scientific accuracy and historical context. The inclusion of a quote from Joseph Addison underscores a commitment to intellectual tolerance and the recognition of diverse perspectives, even within a framework of critical analysis.