Phactum - 2015 01 - January

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: January/February/March 2015
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Phactum, the newsletter and anti-woo-woo organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, covers the period of January, February, and March 2015. The cover features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, born January 17, 1706, with a brief mention of his birth date.

Benjamin Franklin: A Critical Look

The lead article on page 2 delves into the life of Benjamin Franklin, highlighting his birth in Boston in 1706 and his journey to becoming a prominent American figure. It details his diverse roles as a businessman, philosopher, publisher, writer, scientist, politician, and revolutionary. Franklin's significant contributions to American society are enumerated, including founding the first insurance company, the Free Library, Philadelphia Hospital, the American Philosophical Society, and the University of Pennsylvania. The article notes his participation in scientific exploration, particularly the famous Kite & Key Experiment, which the publication's editor visited a café related to. It also mentions his role in drafting the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The article concludes by humorously noting that Franklin's 309th birthday coincided with PhACT's first meeting of 2015, and speculates on his thoughts regarding the discussion topic, 'Free Energy'.

Table of Contents and Featured Articles

The Table of Contents on page 2 lists various sections and articles, including upcoming PhACT events, letters to the editor, meeting reports, and several articles and book reviews. Notable articles include:

• "The data are overwhelmingly equivocal" by Howard J. Wilk.
• "Cold Duck" by Kim A. Sheridan.
• "The God of the Bible is a Myth: A Biological Basis for Religious Belief" by Norman Vadner.
• "The Many Exodi of Mankind" by Paul Schlueter III.

PhACT's Roster of I.R.E. (Infamous Rational Errors)

This section introduces a pamphlet compiled by Paul Schlueter III, which lists common logical fallacies and flawed arguments. It is available at PhACT meetings and is intended to be a collaborative project with submissions encouraged via email to the editor. A new entry, 'IDENTITY BIAS', is defined as a group's set of ideas and beliefs that distinguish its orientation and are adopted to establish personal identity and cultural heritage, often manifesting as 'articles of faith' or group ideology.

Upcoming PhACT Events

Page 3 details upcoming PhACT events hosted at the Community College of Philadelphia. Meetings are generally held on the third Saturday of the month at 2:00 PM and are free and open to the public.

• January 17, 2015: Eric Krieg will discuss "The high cost of Free Energy," exploring claims of free energy and super-efficient technologies.
• February 21, 2015: Professor Alan Mann will discuss "The Scars of Evolution," focusing on the evolutionary development of human upright posture and its associated problems.
• March 21, 2015: Dr. Deborah Berebichez will discuss "A Non-Stop Skeptic in a Believer's World." She is a physicist and promoter of science.

Book Reviews and Related Content

Pages 4 and 5 feature reviews or mentions of books and related topics:

• "Prehistoric Man, the Explorer's Kit: Visit a Prehistoric World and Excavate Early Man!" by Alan E. Mann (1997), a juvenile nonfiction book exploring human evolution.
• "Human Biology and Behavior: An Anthropological Perspective, 5th Edition" by Mark L. Weiss & Alan E. Mann (1997), which covers adaptation, evolution, molecular genetics, and human physical evolution.
• A lecture by Dr. Deborah Berebichez on "A Non-Stop Skeptic in a Believer's World" is announced.
• An upcoming lecture in April 2015 will feature Toxicologist Dr. David Cragin and Science Journalist Faye Flam discussing the controversy of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).

PhACT Expedition and Physics Lecture

Page 6 announces two events:

• May 16, 2015: A PhACT Expedition to the Mullica River, focusing on Jersey Devil folklore, led by James F. McCloy and Ray Miller, Jr., with a guide Don Nigroni. The expedition will explore the history of the bog iron era and local flora.
• September 19, 2015: Professor Paul Halpern will lecture on his new book, "Einstein's Dice and Schrödinger's Cat: How Two Great Minds Battled Quantum Randomness to Create a Unified Theory of Physics." The lecture will cover the search for a Theory of Everything and the contributions of Einstein and Schrödinger.

Book Review: Einstein's Dice and Schrödinger's Cat

Page 7 provides a detailed review of Paul Halpern's book, "Einstein's Dice and Schrödinger's Cat." It discusses the historical competition between Einstein and Schrödinger to develop a unified theory of physics, their dissatisfaction with quantum mechanics' indeterminacy, and their eventual failures. The review notes that while they missed key components like the weak and strong forces, the search for a unified theory continues, with modern physics like string theory revisiting similar concepts. Paul Halpern's credentials as a physics professor and author are highlighted.

Letters to the Editor

Page 8 features several letters:

• Howard J. Wilk comments on a previous illustration of a book cover being a map of Pennsylvania and discusses specific counties shown.
• Wilk also shares a study indicating that holographic and negative ion technology wristbands may have no positive effect on exercise endurance.
• Wilk writes about the sickle-cell anemia gene and its persistence in populations due to conferring resistance to malaria.
• Steve Hiscock criticizes an article about Joseph Newman's energy machine, defending its functionality and criticizing the publication's skepticism.
• A letter mentions Dr. Robert H. Lustig's views on sugar consumption and the role of fiber, noting an exception for grapes.

Various Ruminations and Science News

Page 9 includes:

• A continuation of a discussion on sugar and fruit consumption, referencing articles from The BMJ and The New York Times, with Howard J. Wilk providing links.
• An article about Project SNOWstorm, a collaboration studying Snowy Owls, detailing their wintering behavior, diet, and the use of GPS/GMS transmitters for tracking.
• A section titled "Various Ruminations of Woo Woo and Real Science and some Gossip," collected by Ray Haupt. It includes a link to a logical fallacies website and mentions the availability of PhACT's 'Roster of I.R.E.' pamphlet.
• A report on debunked vaccine misinformation, citing Dr. Stephen Barrett and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Vaccine Education Center's stance on the safety of aluminum in vaccines.

Vaccine Information and Reader Participation

Page 10 continues the discussion on vaccines, detailing the use of aluminum salts and stating that delaying vaccines does not significantly lessen exposure but increases the risk of infection. It also announces a lecture by Dr. Paul Offit on his book "Bad Faith: When Religious Belief Undermines Modern Medicine." The section "Reader Participation Wanted!!" encourages readers to submit letters to the editor and articles, covering topics like human evolution, free energy, alternative medicine, mystical quackery, and cryptozoology, as well as suggestions for improving Phactum. It specifically seeks news on alternative medicine quackery related to the Ebola Epidemic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, Phactum maintains a strong stance against "woo woo" or pseudoscience, promoting critical thinking and scientific rationalism. The publication actively debunks misinformation, particularly concerning vaccines and alternative medicine. It features lectures and articles by scientists and experts, encouraging a skeptical yet open-minded approach to various phenomena. The editorial stance clearly favors evidence-based reasoning and scientific inquiry, as evidenced by the content on rational errors, vaccine safety, and the critical examination of scientific theories and claims. The inclusion of topics like evolution, physics, and the Jersey Devil folklore suggests an interest in exploring both established science and phenomena that often fall outside mainstream scientific acceptance, but always through a lens of critical analysis.

Phactum, January/February/March 2015 issue. This issue features a diverse range of articles covering health, science, culture, and local events.

Articles

Homeopathy and Ebola

The issue critically examines the claims of "Homeopaths Without Borders" regarding cures for Ebola. An article from the Daily Mail highlights a team of homeopaths in Liberia attempting to treat Ebola patients with remedies like snake venom and Spanish Fly, facing ridicule from the scientific community but dismissing critics as "armchair intellectuals." Dr. Ingrid Samet is quoted suggesting a remedy involving diluted flower petals, table salt, and potentially snake venom. The article also references a blog post by Dr. Edzard Earnst, an expert and critic of alternative medicine, who published an account of a German homeopathic journal's article about an international team of homeopaths assisting in Liberia. This team, organized by the World Association of Homeopathic Doctors and the Liga Medicorum Homoeopathica Internationalis, aimed to document homeopathic treatments for Ebola patients as an adjunct to standard WHO treatment, with Dr. Cornelia Bajic, chairperson of the German Central Association of Homeopathic Doctors, believing homeopathic treatment might significantly reduce mortality. However, the article notes political considerations, such as the WHO forbidding care for patients in the "Ebola Treatment Unit," hindering their efforts. Mike Noyes of ActionAid is quoted stating there is no scientific evidence that homeopathy impacts viral diseases like Ebola and that unproven approaches are damaging to the response.

Bad Faith: When Religious Belief Undermines Modern Medicine

A review of Paul A. Offit's book "Bad Faith: When Religious Belief Undermines Modern Medicine" is presented. The book explores how religious beliefs lead some individuals to reject scientifically proven medical treatments, citing examples like Christian Scientists praying for healing instead of seeking medical care, Jehovah's Witnesses refusing blood transfusions, and ultra-Orthodox Jewish mohels using contaminated circumcision tools, resulting in preventable suffering and death for children. Offit argues that denying medical care for religious reasons is not only immoral but also rejects the positive aspects of belief.

The End of the World — Again: Why the Apocalypse Meme Replicates in Media, Science, and Culture

This section reports on a lecture by Professor Barry Vacker of Temple University. Vacker discusses the pervasive influence of apocalyptic scenarios in media, science, and culture, exploring the psychological and sociological reasons behind humanity's fascination with doomsday predictions. He notes that the 2012 Mayan calendar event was taken seriously by many, despite its cyclical nature. Vacker identifies three main drives for this interest: fear of the uncertain future, the yearning for a new beginning, and human arrogance or a sense of cosmic centrality. He contrasts the significant funding for apocalyptic media with the comparatively small funding for programs like NASA's NEO program, which tracks near-earth objects, questioning why society spends more on contemplating destruction than on prevention.

Neuroethics: the Perils and Potential of Brain Science

This report covers a lecture by Dr. Ted Schick, Professor of Philosophy at Muhlenberg College, on "Neuroethics: the Perils and Potential of Brain Science." Dr. Schick discusses the ongoing "brain-race" in neuroscience, driven by projects like the European Human Brain Project and the US BRAIN initiative, which aim to map the brain and develop new technologies for lie detection, memory recall, and altering neural pathways for medical and psychological disorders. He highlights the ethical quandaries arising from these advancements, questioning how far we should go in altering our minds, whether removing memories changes a person's identity, and the potential for using neuroscience in the justice system. Dr. Schick also touches upon the philosophical debate between dualism (mind and body as separate) and holism (mind and body as integrated), noting that current neuroscience supports a holistic view. The report also mentions Dr. Schick's book, "How to Think About Weird Things: Critical Thinking for a New Age."

The data are overwhelmingly equivocal

Authored by Howard J. Wilk, this article discusses the confusing and often contradictory information provided by science regarding health and nutrition. Wilk uses examples like the changing views on coffee, alcohol, cholesterol, and carbohydrates to illustrate this point. He argues that "health" cannot be expressed as a single variable and that fitness and body type requirements for survival vary greatly. The article specifically examines the role of antioxidant vitamins, phytochemicals, and NSAIDs in relation to muscle building and inflammation, citing a study that found the data to be "overwhelmingly equivocal." Wilk suggests that the effectiveness of these interventions depends heavily on the specific exercise, individual, timing, type, and amount of food or supplements consumed.

Correlation of the Effect of the Month of May on the Mien of the Male and the Feelings of the Female with Meaningful or Meaningless Lyrics in Popular Music

This piece by Howard J. Wilk explores a correlation between the month of May and popular music lyrics. Wilk notes that lyrics referencing May often describe it as mellow and darlin', but he is unsure about the meaning of "passion eyes of May." He concludes that a correlation exists.

Off the Beaten Path: Cold Duck

This article by Kim A. Sheridan describes winter birdwatching opportunities at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. It highlights the presence of various winter ducks, including Red-breasted Mergansers, Long-tailed Ducks, Common Eiders, and Harlequin Ducks, noting that Barnegat Light is their winter home. The article explains how birds maintain warmth in icy waters through their feathers and preen oil.

Events at The Wagner Free Institute of Science

This section lists upcoming events and adult education courses at The Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia for Winter/Spring 2015. Events include talks on freshwater mussels, local history, and science festival activities. Courses cover topics such as fungi, biochemistry of the senses, the periodic table of elements, developmental biology, and public health in Philadelphia. The institute offers free educational experiences, supported by endowments, grants, and donations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly in the realms of alternative medicine (homeopathy) and pseudoscientific theories (apocalypse memes). There is a clear emphasis on scientific evidence and established medical practices, as seen in the critique of homeopathy and the review of Paul Offit's book. The publication also engages with contemporary scientific advancements, such as neuroscience, while raising important ethical considerations. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based reasoning and a cautious approach to new technologies and beliefs that lack rigorous scientific backing.

Title: Phactum
Issue: January/February/March 2015
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum presents a collection of articles that critically examine religion from biological, evolutionary, and historical perspectives, alongside explorations into human origins and paleontology.

The God of the Bible is a Myth: A Biological Basis for Religious Belief

Authored by Norman Vadner, this extensive article argues that religious belief lacks a sound, rational basis and is primarily driven by biological factors and the human psyche. Vadner posits that while an unknown higher power might exist, the specific God of the Bible is a human construct. The paper explores how early-age indoctrination, wishful thinking, and biological predispositions contribute to religious belief, often leading to a suspension of critical thinking and a phenomenon called 'compartmentalization,' where religious adherents can be rational in other areas of life but not in their faith.

The article contends that God does not speak directly because he cannot, as he does not exist; any perceived divine communication is a human projection. It highlights historical instances where religious dogma has clashed with scientific understanding, such as the church's stance on Galileo, suggesting that religious institutions can be mistaken. The concept of 'confirmation bias' is introduced to explain why people tend to remember events that confirm their beliefs while forgetting those that do not.

Vadner also discusses the 'Man Behind the Curtain,' asserting that while transcendental experiences might occur, they do not provide rational evidence for the God of the bible. The paper suggests that religion is a manifestation of human minds, created to fulfill human needs, and that its tenets are not based on reality but on blind faith. The article touches upon the sociological and biological advantages of religious groups for survival and reproduction, and suggests that future medical research might identify the biological basis for religious belief, potentially leading to manipulation.

History of Christianity

This section traces the origins and development of Christianity, noting that the New Testament was not established in the first centuries after Jesus. It describes the early Christian groups with diverse beliefs, some of which were later deemed bizarre. The article highlights Emperor Constantine's role in unifying Christianity in the 4th century, leading to the Council of Nicea in A.D. 325. This council, driven by political and theological debates, established the Trinity of God, Jesus, and the Holy Ghost as a tenet of Christianity through a majority vote, forming the basis of the Nicene Creed.

Human Evolution and the Soul

This article discusses the evolution of Homo sapiens, noting that multiple hominid species coexisted on Earth. It traces the lineage from early hominids like Orrorin and Toumari to Australopithecus afarensis and eventually Homo sapiens. The piece raises theological questions about when the 'soul' was introduced into the human race and whether it was given to branches that later died out.

Some Inconsistencies and Illogical Thinking in Christianity

This section points out perceived contradictions within Christian doctrine. It questions why an all-powerful God would need humans to guess his nature or purpose, and why he created a vast universe if humans were his primary concern. The article critiques the concept of original sin and the atonement through Jesus, as well as the biblical account of Cain and Abel, and the paradox of free will versus divine omniscience. It also references scientific discoveries like the Antarctica crater and mass extinctions as challenges to the idea of a perfect, benevolent creator.

The Many Exodi of Mankind

Authored by Paul Schlueter III, this article focuses on paleontology and human migration. It challenges the simplistic view of a single, massive human exodus from Africa, proposing instead multiple migratory waves. The discovery of the Ust'-Ishim Man in Siberia, dated to 45,000 years ago, is highlighted as crucial evidence. This find indicates that humans and Neanderthals interbred between 60 and 50 Kya, and that the genetic makeup of modern non-Africans is descended from this interbred group. The article suggests that earlier migratory waves from Africa may have occurred but did not leave modern descendants.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of religious beliefs through the lens of science, reason, and evolutionary biology. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance towards religious dogma, particularly Christianity, suggesting that its tenets are human constructs rather than divine truths. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific explanations and rational inquiry over faith-based assertions, advocating for a biological and evolutionary understanding of human behavior and origins. The articles collectively aim to deconstruct religious narratives and present alternative, evidence-based perspectives.

This issue of Phactum, dated January/February/March 2015, focuses on human origins, ancient migrations, and archaeological discoveries. The content explores genetic links between ancient human groups, the settlement of the Americas, and the scientific and legal challenges in studying ancient remains.

Denisovans and Tibetan Adaptation

The issue highlights a report in Nature concerning the Denisovans, a group known from skeletal fragments found in Siberia. It reveals that Denisovan DNA is present in modern Southeast Asians, particularly those in the Pacific Islands. More significantly, a specific variant of the EPAS1 gene, which aids Tibetans in processing oxygen at high altitudes, has been linked to Denisovans. Analysis comparing Tibetan and Han Chinese DNA shows that the Tibetan EPAS1 variant is unique and not inherited from Neanderthals. Researchers found that Denisovans shared 15 out of 20 genetic distinctions (SNPs) with Tibetans, suggesting a potential connection to this high-altitude adaptation, though the exact mechanism and location of its acquisition remain unknown. This adaptation is presented as a case where a genetic trait, possibly acquired randomly, later proved highly beneficial in a specific environment.

Early Migrations to the Americas

The magazine discusses two distinct waves of Siberian migration into North America's arctic region, neither of which contributed to the genetic heritage of other Native Americans. It details the Dorset culture, which appeared around 5 Kya and disappeared around 1 Kya, being replaced by the Thule culture, ancestors of modern Inuits in Greenland and Canada. Both groups originated from a common population in Siberia. Native Americans are also noted to have descended from Siberians, migrating into the continent at least 12 Kya, but not settling the Arctic. The co-existence of Dorset and Thule cultures for at least 150 years is mentioned, with the Thule's advantage in bows-and-arrows and organized communities contributing to the displacement of the Dorsets. The Sadlermuit culture's demise in 1903 due to European disease is noted, with their DNA showing modern Inuit characteristics. The absence of Scandinavian DNA in ancient Thule samples argues against interbreeding with Vikings. A Siberian boy's DNA from around 24 Kya indicates his group was the common source for Dorsets, Thules, and modern Native Americans.

Kennewick Man and Early American Settlers

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the Kennewick Man, whose remains were discovered in 1996 near Kennewick, WA. Carbon dating placed his age at over 9,000 years old. The legal and scientific battle over studying his remains is detailed, including the involvement of the Army Corps of Engineers and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). In 2004, a court ruled that Kennewick Man was not related to modern Native Americans, allowing for scientific study. Scientists concluded he belonged to an early settler group, seafarers sharing ancestry with Polynesians and the Jômon culture of Japan. The Jômon culture is believed to have reached the Americas via the "Kelp Highway." Kennewick Man's DNA has not been fully analyzed, but he is physiologically distinct from modern Native Americans. His closest living relatives are suggested to be the Moriori people of the Chatham Islands. The Corps' actions to prevent further examination, such as dumping rock over the site, are criticized.

Pre-Clovis Evidence in the Americas

The magazine presents evidence suggesting the presence of pre-Clovis populations in the Americas. A report in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences pushed back the date for Clovis people, with spearpoints found at the El Fin del Mundo site in Mexico's Sonoran Desert, associated with gomphothere bones, dating to 13,390 years ago. Another Clovis site in Texas is of similar age. The hunting of mammoths, mastodons, and gomphotheres by Clovis people is discussed as evidence of their specialized hunting culture. The issue also mentions the discovery of 13K-year-old remains of a teenage girl in an underwater cave in Mexico, whose features suggest a relationship with Kennewick Man, while her DNA links her to early Native Americans on the maternal side.

Early European Migrations and Ancient Cultures

Evidence for pre-Clovis occupation is further supported by findings at the Meadowcroft rock shelter in Pennsylvania, with artifacts dated to 16 Kya, and at Monte Verde in Chile, where stone tools and campfire charcoal were dated to 33,730 years ago, and even to between 33 and 40 Kya in a deeper layer. These findings, particularly from South America, challenge the traditional timeline of human settlement in the Americas. The issue also touches on early European history, mentioning the discovery of two men in a cave in Spain dating to 7 Kya, whose DNA was analyzed. Modern humans are noted to have reached Europe 40 Kya, displacing Neanderthals. The impact of glaciers on human migration and the spread of agriculture in the Mediterranean are also briefly discussed. The genetic makeup of Europeans is attributed to three ancient groups: Early European farmers, Western European hunter-gatherers, and "ancient North Eurasians." The 24K-year-old Siberian boy, Mal'ta-l, is highlighted for his genetic profile, which resembles both Western Europeans and Native Americans, contributing significantly to their genomes.

Scientific Advancements and Future Prospects

The article emphasizes the increasing sophistication of DNA testing and computer analysis in tracing ancient human migrations. It suggests that a comprehensive understanding requires the genetic fingerprint of every living person and as many extinct human branches as possible. The author expresses anticipation for future discoveries in the coming years.

PhACT Calendar and Events

The latter part of the magazine is dedicated to the "PhACT Calendar," listing numerous upcoming events in January, February, and March 2015, primarily in Philadelphia and surrounding areas. These events cover a wide range of topics, including science lectures, historical talks, astronomical society meetings, and cultural events. Speakers and topics mentioned include Eric Krieg on "The high cost of Free Energy," Professor Alan Mann on "The Scars of Evolution," Dr. Deborah Berebichez on "A Non-Stop Skeptic in a Believer's World," and discussions on genetically modified organisms, the Jersey Devil, and quantum physics. Other events include lectures on ancient Egypt, the lighthouse of Alexandria, the Bartram family, and the history of science. The calendar also lists various "Science on Tap" and "PENN SCIENCE CAFÉ" events, as well as lectures hosted by the Chemical Heritage Foundation and the Rittenhouse Astronomical Society.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are human origins, ancient migrations, and the scientific exploration of the past through genetics and archaeology. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting scientific inquiry, presenting new research findings, and encouraging public engagement with science through events and lectures. There is a clear emphasis on challenging established timelines and theories with new evidence, particularly concerning the peopling of the Americas and the genetic history of human populations. The magazine also highlights the role of scientific institutions and public forums in disseminating knowledge and fostering discussion.

Title: Phactum
Issue: January/February/March 2015
Publisher: The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum, the main propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, covers events and lectures scheduled for early to mid-2015, with a focus on science, skepticism, and critical thinking in the Philadelphia area. The magazine also includes information on membership, editorial policies, and a thought-provoking quote.

Upcoming Events and Lectures

Science Cafés and Lectures

• April 21, 2015: A PENN SCIENCE CAFÉ at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia will feature a discussion on the controversy of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) with Toxicologist Dr. David Cragin and Science Journalist Faye Flam.
• April 26, 2015: The Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia will host a free and open-to-the-public event.
• May 13, 2015: The Rittenhouse Astronomical Society will hold a lecture at the Fels Planetarium, The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, open to the general public.
• June 10, 2015: Another Rittenhouse Astronomical Society lecture is scheduled at the Fels Planetarium, The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia.
• September 19, 2015: A PhACT Lecture will feature Professor Paul Halpern discussing his new book, "Einstein's Dice and Schrödinger's Cat: How Two Great Minds Battled Quantum Randomness to Create a Unified Theory of Physics."

PhACT / Philadelphia Science Fair Lecture

• April 2015 (Date and Location TBA): This lecture will feature Dr. David Cragin and Faye Flam discussing the controversy surrounding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).

Special Expeditions and Programs

• May 16, 2015: A PhACT Expedition is planned to the Mullica River to "Capture the Jersey Devil."
• April 27, 2015: The American Revolution Round Table of Philadelphia will hold a program at MaGerks Pub and Grill in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania. The specific program is to be announced.
• April 28, 2015: A "Brown Bag Lecture" by Michael Worboys will be held at the Chemical Heritage Foundation in Philadelphia, free and open to the public.
• May 5, 2015: The "Searchlight Series: Conversations About Crime, Justice, and the American Prison System" will take place at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia. The discussion topic is TBA.
• May 6, 2015: Philadelphia Nerd Nite will be held at Frankford Hall, featuring science discussions, food, and drinks. Admission is $5.00.

Editorial and Organizational Information

Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)

PhACT expresses gratitude to the Community College of Philadelphia for its hospitality and facilities. The organization aims to serve Philadelphia by hosting engaging and educational talks. Students and faculty are encouraged to participate.

Phactum Publication Details

Phactum is distributed four times a year, beginning January 2014. It serves as the main propaganda organ for PhACT. Subscription options include an annual membership for $15 which includes email delivery of Phactum, or $25 for US Mail delivery. Donations are also accepted.

Article Use Policy

Materials originating in Phactum may be reprinted by groups recognized in CSI's international network of skeptics organizations, as published in Skeptical Inquirer, provided the author and PhACT are credited. For other publications, permission from PhACT is required. Use of articles and illustrations from other sources requires permission from the original publisher.

Contact Information

Letters, rebuttals, essays, poetry, opinion pieces, complaints, and praise can be sent to Ray Haupt, Phactum editor, at [email protected]. Checks for membership should be made payable to PhACT and mailed to:

PhACT
653 Garden Road
Glenside, PA 19038

The PhACT website is: www.phact.org

PhACT Council 2012/13

The issue lists the members of the PhACT Council, including Bob Glickman (President), David Cragin, PhD. (Vice-President), Doreva Belfiore (Treasurer), Becky Strickland (Secretary), Eric Krieg (Past President), Wes Powers (Webmaster), David Cattell Ph.D., Ray Haupt, Thomas Kasznowski, David Langdon, M.D., and Tom Napier.

Notable Quote

The issue features a quote attributed to Eric Hoffer (1902-1983):

"People unfit for freedom - who cannot do much with it - are hungry for power. The desire for freedom is an attribute of a "have" type of self. It says: leave me alone and I shall grow, learn, and realize my capacities. The desire for power is basically an attribute of a "have not" type of self."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum revolve around the promotion of scientific literacy, critical thinking, and skepticism. The publication actively advertises and encourages participation in lectures, discussions, and events that explore scientific topics, debunk pseudoscience, and foster intellectual curiosity within the Philadelphia community. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and the dissemination of evidence-based information, while also engaging with historical and cultural topics that align with a skeptical worldview. The inclusion of a quote on freedom and power suggests an interest in broader philosophical and societal issues as well.