Phactum - 2015 04 - April

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: April/May/June 2015
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of Phactum, the newsletter and anti-woo woo organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, spans April, May, and June of 2015. It features a diverse array of articles, event announcements, and opinion pieces, maintaining a focus on science, skepticism, and critical analysis.

Sergeant Stubby and GMOs

The cover story highlights Sergeant Stubby, a decorated World War I war dog, and humorously links his lineage to the concept of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). The article details Stubby's heroic feats, including capturing a German spy, and his unique promotion to sergeant. It also touches upon the scientific discussion of GMOs, with an upcoming lecture by toxicologist Dr. David Cragin and science writer Faye Flam scheduled for April 18th, 2015, to discuss perceptions and misperceptions surrounding modern science and food.

PhACT Events and Lectures

The magazine details upcoming events hosted by PhACT, primarily at the Community College of Philadelphia. These include:

• April 18, 2015: A lecture by Dr. Dave Cragin and Faye Flam on "Risk assessment, Critical thinking and Health" and science communication.
• May 16, 2015: An expedition to the Mullica River, exploring local folklore and natural history, including the legend of the Jersey Devil.
• July 18, 2015: A PhACT picnic and book swap.
• September 19, 2015: A lecture by Professor Paul Halpern on his book "Einstein's Dice and Schrödinger's Cat: How Two Great Minds Battled Quantum Randomness to Create a Unified Theory of Physics."

Scientific and Skeptical Articles

Several articles delve into scientific and skeptical topics:

• Calendar Systems: Howard J. Wilk provides a detailed explanation of the Julian and Gregorian calendars, including their historical adoption and the nuances of leap years and date changes.
• Physics and Unified Theory: Professor Paul Halpern's book "Einstein's Dice and Schrödinger's Cat" is discussed, focusing on the historical attempts by Einstein and Schrödinger to create a unified theory of physics and the ongoing search for a Theory of Everything.
• Food Fears and Misinformation: An article discusses the "Food Babe" and her claims, including the suggestion that castorium, a substance derived from beaver anal glands, is used in processed foods. It also links to a critique of "The Food Babe."
• Vaccination and Homeopathy: Dr. Stephen Barrett reports on the debunking of anti-vaccination objections and highlights an Australian Government report that concluded homeopathic treatment is worthless.
• Mars Plumes: A brief report on the discovery of large cloudlike plumes erupting from Mars, a phenomenon that scientists were unable to explain.
• Rhabdomancy: The term "rhabdomancy" (water dowsing) is defined and discussed, referencing historical dictionaries and its association with finding mineral deposits.

Other Features

• Letters to the Editor: This section includes correspondence on topics such as the accuracy of biographical dates, critiques of inventors like Joseph Newman, and a humorous submission about a fictional zombie tissue preservation technique that was accepted for a conference.
• Various Ruminations: Collected by Ray Haupt, this section includes a tribute to the late Joel Kauffman, a long-time PhACT member, and discussions on topics like International Dowsing Day and the historical "War of the Worlds" broadcast.
• Quotes: The issue features a quote from H. L. Mencken on the nature of science and its pursuit of knowledge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum are the promotion of scientific literacy, critical thinking, and skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims and misinformation. The publication actively engages with current scientific research, historical events, and public discourse on controversial topics like GMOs, vaccination, and alternative medicine. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and a rational approach to understanding the world, as evidenced by its self-description as an "Anti Woo Woo Organ."

Phactum, April/May/June 2015 issue.

Articles

Anti-vaccinationists ridiculed on YouTube (March 3, 2015)

Television talk-show host Jimmy Kimmel produced two episodes promoting vaccinations. The first episode suggested doctors know more about vaccines than actress Jenny McCarthy. The second discussed responses to the first video and included a survey asking children if they would rather get a shot or a lollipop.

FDA will reexamine its homeopathic product regulation (March 28, 2015)

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scheduled a public hearing to discuss the homeopathic marketplace and regulation. The 1938 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act permits substances in the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States to be marketed as drugs, but the FDA has not held them to the same standards as other drugs. The hearing was scheduled for April 20-21 at the FDA's White Oak Campus in Silver Spring, Maryland. The article notes a previous incorrect link to an Australian Government report that concluded homeopathic treatment is worthless.

Human Head Transplant Two Years Away

An article from The Telegraph reported that Italian surgeon Dr. Sergio Canavero expects to graft a head to a donor body in about two years. He was set to announce the project at the American Academy of Neurological and Orthopaedic Surgeons conference. The article notes the first successful head transplant was performed on a monkey in 1970, which lived for nine days. Dr. Arthur Caplan of NYU Langone Medical Center expressed skepticism, highlighting ethical obstacles and the potential for insanity or severe mental disability if a brain were transplanted to a new body.

A Scientist in Wonderland: A Memoir of Searching for Truth and Finding Trouble by Edzard Ernst

This is a review of Edzard Ernst's memoir, detailing his life as a doctor and scientist, his pursuit of truth through scientific methods, and his growing interest in the history of medicine during the Nazi era. It highlights his appointment to the world's first chair in alternative medicine and the challenges he faced from outspoken promoters of alternative therapies. The memoir is described as providing insight into academic politics and a sobering reflection on the damage done by pseudoscience.

The High Cost of Free Energy

A lecture by Eric Krieg, an Electrical Engineer, for the Philadelphia Association of Critical Thinking (PhACT). Krieg discussed debunking claims of 'free' energy, citing examples like Dennis Lee (anti-gravity machine), Patrick Kelly (Genesis World Energy, convicted of defrauding investors), and Carl Tilley (electric vehicle, convicted of fraud). He also mentioned Dr. Randell Mills of BlackLight Power, who claims a new source of energy. Krieg noted that these inventors often claim conspiracy theories when their claims are challenged. The lecture concluded by emphasizing the need for better energy sources and prioritizing renewable energy research.

A Non-Stop Skeptic in a Believer's World

A lecture by Dr. Deborah Berebichez, a Physicist. Dr. Berebichez discussed the implications of skepticism, elaborating on three rejections of skepticism: the 'convenience store' approach, the 'singularity' approach, and the 'avoidance' approach. She stated that these rejections stem from a fear of uncertainty and that 'science is being comfortable with uncertainty.' She has dedicated her life to introducing science and skepticism in a way that doesn't deter people from complex answers. The lecture also covered the harmfulness of non-skeptic and magical thinking, citing examples like the film 'What the Bleep Do We Know!?' and the book 'The Secret.'

PhACT Participates in School Science Fairs in Philadelphia and in Bucks County, PA

Notes on the Bucks County Science Fair, where PhACT prizes were awarded. First place went to Sandhura Siddapureddy for investigating the effect of placebo on memory. Second place went to Casey Koochangian for research on organic food. Third place went to a team for experiments on dice rolling. The article also mentions Compucraft Fabricators Inc. providing medallions for the prizes. Notes on the 2015 Carver Science Fair, judged by PhACT, where three prizes of $50 were awarded. Alexandra Fiol-Mahon won for her project on antioxidant levels in beverages. Lillian Forrest won for comparing commercial versus natural dyes. Mikaela Watson investigated the potential connection between joint flexibility and hormonal effects of menstruation.

At the Wagner Free Institute of Science

An event called 'Explorer Sunday' was held on April 26, 2015, featuring Victorian-era technology and 'selfies' with silhouette portraits and solar photograms. This event was part of the 2015 Philadelphia Science Festival. A lecture on 'Philadelphia 1865: A City on the Edge' was presented by Bruce Laverty on May 20, 2015, discussing the city's growth and challenges in that pivotal year. The Wagner Free Institute of Science provides free educational experiences for over 20,000 school children annually.

Off the Beaten Path - Fleeting Beauty

An article by Kim A. Sheridan about spring ephemeral wildflowers. It describes how these plants awaken in early spring, bloom, and disperse seeds before the forest canopy leafs out. It details their life cycle, their reliance on sunlight and moisture, and their interaction with insects for pollination and seed dispersal (myrmecochory). The article highlights the benefits of wildflowers, such as soil stabilization and supporting native bees, and mentions challenges like invasive plants and habitat fragmentation. It suggests Shenk's Ferry Wildflower Preserve, Mt. Cuba Center, and Jenkins Arboretum as good places to view wildflowers.

NDE Research Resuscitated in the U.K.

An article by Paul Schlueter III discussing a study by Sam Parnia from the University of Southampton on near-death experiences (NDEs). The study involved over 2,000 cardiac arrest patients and suggested that consciousness often continues for a brief time after death, with nearly 40 percent of survivors describing some form of 'awareness' during cardiac arrest. The author expresses skepticism about the framing of the study in the popular press, suggesting it favors pseudoscientific interpretations and may lead to increased funding for unproven practices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes scientific investigation, critical thinking, and evidence-based medicine. It features articles that debunk pseudoscience, highlight the importance of education, and discuss ethical considerations in science and medicine. There is a clear stance against anti-vaccination sentiments and alternative medicine practices that lack scientific support. The publication also showcases local science and nature events, encouraging engagement with scientific and environmental topics.

This issue of Phactum, dated April/May/June 2015, spans 9 pages and features a variety of articles, including a prominent cover story on "Uncommon Dog Breeds for Critical Thinkers" by Howard J. Wilk. Other articles cover "On the Theory of Intelligent Design, etc." by Howard J. Wilk, and "Growing Old in 'the World of William Penn'" by Clarissa F. Dillon, Ph.D.

Article: A response to the Parnia study

Page 21 includes a letter or commentary discussing the Parnia study and its reporting, criticizing it for promoting "semi-Spiritualist baloney about glimpsing 'the other side' and 'life after death' double talk." The author argues that once a brain is dead, it cannot process experiences, and that recovery from deep oxygen deprivation leads to stories that fall into similar patterns due to shared brain structures. The author calls for further study into subjective experiences during oxygen deprivation but rejects supernatural interpretations. The commentary ends with a request for a response from Parnia or the Daily Telegraph and mentions Paul Schlueter III, who is serving a prison sentence in Pennsylvania, with a website for supporters.

Article: On the Theory of Intelligent Design, etc.

Howard J. Wilk's article on page 22 examines the theory of Intelligent Design, using the honeycomb as a case study. He initially proposes a proof for the falsity of Intelligent Design based on the honeycomb's closed ends, which are constructed of three rhombi, suggesting a more efficient design exists. However, he acknowledges the work of mathematician László Fejes Tóth, who proved a better solution using two hexagons and two smaller rhombi, which uses 0.035% less wax. Wilk notes that in the real world, with thick bubble walls, honeycombs assume the bee's geometry, scoring a point for "God." He then discusses the worker bees' labor, finding the system unfair to females, thus tying the score 1-1. The article also touches upon Moser's worm problem, a mathematical puzzle concerning the smallest blanket size to cover an inchworm, citing Wikipedia references for differing area estimates (0.260437 to 0.232239 square inches), concluding that "God knows" the answer. Wilk identifies himself as a chemist, weightlifter, and skeptic from Philadelphia.

Article: Uncommon Dog Breeds for Critical Thinkers

This multi-page feature, starting on page 23, explores various dog breeds, often with a critical or skeptical eye, and is continued on page 27 with an "Answer Key." The article is by Howard J. Wilk.

The Albanian Goatherd Dog

Described as an ancient breed from Albania, its origins are debated, with Aristotle suggesting crosses between lionesses and Carpathian wolves. The breed supposedly prospered under Enver Hoxha's dictatorship, used by the Shpilki (secret police) for their sense of smell to detect counter-revolutionaries. The article notes their acute sense of smell was later used to distinguish friend from foe based on food odors during Balkan wars.

The Frisian Shepherd Dog

Originating from Friesland in Northern Europe, this breed was developed partly due to the Little Ice Age (1350-1850) when polar bears were predators of sheep. The dogs are bred to be all white for camouflage against snow. The author mentions his own dog, Glacier, a Frisian Shepherd, and the lengthy process to authenticate him with Dutch and German kennel clubs.

The Hudson Bay Retriever

This is presented as another name for the Newfoundland Dog, with some individuals being considerably larger. Molosser dogs, including Newfoundlands and mastiffs, are mentioned as descendants of ancient Greek dogs. One such dog, living among the Inuit in Nunavut, is cited as weighing 262 pounds and nicknamed "The Colossus of Molossus."

The Malayan Jungle Dog

This breed, also known as the Mandalay Snake Hound, originated from dogs that escaped into the jungle during the Second World War in Malaya and Burma. These dogs evolved considerable resistance to the zootoxins of local venomous snakes, with an estimated LD50 of Ophiophagus hannah (king cobra) venom 12-15 times higher than in other dogs.

The Mimosa Inu

Named after Mimosa, Hokkaido, Japan, this breed is associated with the Ainu people. It is also known as the Gojira Inu. The breed is described as large and powerful, well-suited to Hokkaido's climate, and is known as the "fisherman's friend," capable of rescuing lost skiers.

The Ocracoke Pirate Dog

This is described as a now-feral dog descended from dogs left on Portsmouth Island, North Carolina, in 1971. The name stems from a legend involving Edward Teach (Blackbeard the Pirate) using the dogs to guard treasure, though the author dismisses this as groundless. The breed is likely a mongrelization of local dogs. An ancestor, "Beedat," is noted for rescuing sailors in the 19th century off Cape Hatteras.

The San Roque Dog

Named after Saint Roch, the patron saint of dogs, this breed is linked to a monastery in Desaguadero, Bolivia, at 12,556 feet. The monks of San Roque breed these dogs, which are similar to St. Bernard Dogs but do not shed their coats due to the tropical subalpine climate. San Roque's Day, August 16th, is considered the "birthday of all dogs" in Bolivia.

The Tehuelche Dog

Traditionally used by the Tehuelche people of Patagonia to hunt rheas, the origin of this dog is disputed. Some believe it descends from pre-Columbian dogs, while others suggest interbreeding with European dogs. The breed is described as not playing well with others and unsuitable as pets, with its export prohibited by the Argentine government.

The Windhoek Löwenhund

This breed from Namibia, whose name means "lion dog," was developed by crossbreeding Basenjis with Oldenburger Dogs and African Wolves. It produces an unusual "barroo" sound and, like the Basenji, bitches come into estrus only once a year. The breed is noted for swimming ability but reluctance to do so voluntarily.

Answer Key to Uncommon Dog Breeds

Page 27 provides the "Answer Key," revealing that most of the described breeds (Albanian Goatherd Dog, Frisian Shepherd Dog, Hudson Bay Retriever, Malayan Jungle Dog, Mimosa Inu, Ocracoke Pirate Dog, San Roque Dog, Tehuelche Dog, and Windhoek Löwenhund) are fictional or significantly embellished. The author admits to fabricating details for most of them, including breed names, histories, and specific characteristics, often for humorous or illustrative purposes. For instance, the Frisian Shepherd Dog is stated to be unrecognized by the FCI, and the author's own dog, Glacier, is presented as the only one of its kind. The Malayan Jungle Dog is revealed to have no such breed, and the photo likely shows a boa constrictor. The Mimosa Inu is also fabricated, with "mimosa" meaning "conduct; behavior" in Japanese, and "Gojira" being the Japanese name for Godzilla. The Ocracoke Pirate Dog is also stated to be non-existent, with the island having been abandoned in 1971. The San Roque Dog is also fabricated, though Saint Roch is indeed the patron saint of dogs. The Tehuelche Dog is also stated to be non-existent, though the peoples and rheas are real. The Windhoek Löwenhund is also fabricated, though Namibia and "desert lions" exist. The article humorously debunks its own presented breeds, highlighting the author's creative license and critical thinking prompt.

Article: Growing Old in "the World of William Penn"

Clarissa F. Dillon, Ph.D., explores myths about life in the 18th century on pages 28-30, particularly focusing on aging. The article debunks the myth that everyone died young, noting that while child mortality was high, survivors could live to a ripe old age. It discusses the difficulty in finding detailed information on individuals' lifespans and causes of death, relying on diaries and correspondence. Common conditions associated with aging, such as decreased mobility, are discussed, along with the ambiguity of terminology and home remedies used. Vision problems like glaucoma and cataracts are examined, with the article noting that in the 18th century, these were often viewed as the same issue, and home remedies were employed. The article also references Samuel Johnson's 1755 dictionary definitions for glaucoma, cataract, and suffusion. Medical treatments for cataracts are described, including invasive surgical procedures like "couching." The article also touches upon conditions that today would be called dementia or Alzheimer's, citing Benjamin Franklin's son's concerns about his mother's memory. It presents examples of individuals who lived long lives and remained active, such as Mary Lightfoot (over 80 with a sound mind) and Adam Poth (103 years old). The article concludes that individual variation in lifespan was as present then as it is today. It then addresses attempts to hold back the signs of aging, discussing wigs and hair loss treatments, including a powder to prevent baldness and a method to quicken hair growth. Finally, it touches on facial wrinkles and age spots, mentioning a "youthful face" treatment involving various waters and tragacanth. The article concludes by noting that discolored or missing teeth were also a concern, with people encouraged to use whitening products and dentures or implants being available.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance, particularly evident in the "Uncommon Dog Breeds" feature where the author admits to fabricating most of the breeds presented, challenging readers to discern truth from fiction. The commentary on the Parnia study also reflects a critical view of sensationalized reporting and unsubstantiated claims. The article on intelligent design questions its scientific validity. The historical pieces, while informative, are presented with a factual and analytical tone, avoiding overly romanticized views of the past. The overall editorial stance appears to favor critical thinking, skepticism towards extraordinary claims, and a grounded, evidence-based approach to information, whether historical or scientific.

This issue of Phactum, dated April/May/June 2015, features a diverse range of articles covering historical medical practices, the ethics of cloning, and a calendar of scientific events in the Philadelphia area. The cover story, "The Quack Doctor: Historical Remedies for all your Ills" by Caroline Rance, explores the history of quackery and advertising for dubious medical treatments.

Historical Dental Practices and Remedies

The issue begins with a look at 18th-century dental care, highlighting the challenges and rudimentary treatments available. Diarist Elizabeth Drinker's entries detail tooth extractions and attempts at replacement, while references are made to dentists like Doctor Spence and Js. Gardette who offered cleaning and extraction services. The article notes that preventive measures were not available to those without money. The advertisement for "Dr. RICHARD ROCK's Tincture for Curing the TEETH" exemplifies the era's approach to dental care, promising to cure toothaches, whiten teeth, and address gum disorders, while also claiming to improve facial appearance by removing blemishes and wrinkles.

Another section discusses historical remedies for eye ailments, mentioning the use of "Eye-bright" and juice of crab apples. It notes that while these were common home treatments, their efficacy was questionable. The article also touches upon the invention of bifocals by Benjamin Franklin as a solution for age-related vision changes.

The Ethics of Cloning

Paul Schlueter III's article, "What Are The Ethics Of Cloning?", uses science fiction, specifically the movie "Star Trek X: Nemesis," as a springboard to discuss the potential ethical and societal implications of human cloning. The article explores scenarios where clones might be created for organ donation or to replicate individuals of perceived high value. It raises profound questions about the rights of a clone, the concept of ownership, and the potential for misuse by governments or corporations. The author critiques the tendency of modern sci-fi to favor emotional narratives over rational scientific inquiry and questions who should be responsible for establishing cloning regulations, suggesting that neither current political bodies nor religious institutions might be adequately prepared.

Historical Events and Lectures

The magazine also includes a detailed "PhACT Calendar" listing numerous upcoming events in the Philadelphia area. These events span a wide array of topics, including:

• Lectures and Discussions: Topics range from "Perceptions and Misperceptions of the Modern World and Science" by a toxicologist and science writer, to discussions on "Einstein's Dice and Schrödinger's Cat" and "The Emergent Mind: What Brains and Cognition Tell Us about Faith."
• Historical Tours: Walking tours focusing on "Surrender at Appomattox: The End of the Civil War" and "Patriots, Politicians and Playwrights: Philadelphia Lawyers at Laurel Hill" are featured.
• Science Cafés and Workshops: Events like "Tapping Our Watershed" explore environmental topics, while a workshop on "Preparing some 18th-Century Beverages" offers a historical culinary experience.
• Museum and Site Events: The calendar includes events at various institutions, such as the University of Pennsylvania Museum, the Chemical Heritage Foundation, and Eastern State Penitentiary, covering topics from archaeology to crime and justice.
• Special Events: A "Mega-Bad Movie Night" featuring "Mega-Shark vs Giant Octopus" and a "Brown Bag Lecture" are also listed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of history, science, and ethics. There's a clear interest in examining past practices, particularly in medicine and science, to understand their context and contrast them with contemporary knowledge. The ethical considerations of emerging technologies, such as cloning, are explored with a critical and questioning stance. The extensive event calendar suggests an editorial focus on promoting scientific literacy and engagement within the Philadelphia community, encouraging participation in lectures, discussions, and historical explorations. The magazine appears to advocate for a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding the world, while acknowledging the complexities and potential pitfalls of both historical and future advancements.

Title: Phactum
Issue: April/May/June 2015
Publisher: The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of Phactum serves as a comprehensive calendar of events for the Philadelphia area, spanning April, May, and June 2015. It is published by The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT), which aims to promote critical thinking through a variety of engaging and educational topics.

Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation

The issue highlights an interactive afternoon of forensic investigation at The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, simulating a crime scene within the Mütter Museum. Participants are invited to experience criminal investigation techniques and solve a mystery, suitable for ages 16 and up.

History and Cultural Events

Several events delve into historical topics. "BONES BELLS and WHISTLES: A HISTORY OF PHILLY'S SCIENTIFIC MEN and WOMEN" at Laurel Hill Cemetery explores the contributions of notable Philadelphians. The "American Revolution Round Table of Philadelphia" features a talk on "Christ Church and the Interpretation of a National Shrine" by Neil Ronk. Cokie Roberts presents "Colonial Dames: The Civil War and the Women of Washington, 1848-1868," examining the roles of women during the Civil War era. Another event at Laurel Hill Cemetery, "THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD: WRITERS, EDITORS and PUBLISHERS of LAUREL HILL," celebrates Philadelphia's publishing history, featuring figures like Louis Godey and Sarah Josepha Hale.

Science and Academia

"Science on Tap" events are monthly gatherings offering informal presentations by scientists followed by discussion. The Chemical Heritage Foundation hosts various lectures, including "An Alchemist's Toast to Health, Wealth, and Longevity," exploring the history and modern relevance of alchemy, and a talk by Michael Worboys. The University of Pennsylvania Museum hosts the "Great Wonders Lecture Series," with a lecture on "The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus and its Successors." Beth Shapiro discusses "How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-Extinction" at the Free Library of Philadelphia. Jason Pine presents "Meth Labs, Material Culture, and Industrial Geography." The Rittenhouse Astronomical Society holds monthly meetings at The Franklin Institute.

Special Interest and Themed Events

Laurel Hill Cemetery is a frequent venue for unique events. These include "CRYPTIC CRYPTS: EGYPTIAN SYMBOLISIM at LAUREL HILL," exploring afterlife beliefs across cultures, "YOGA in the CEMETERY," "LAUREL HILL: THE HOT SPOTS and STORIED PLOTS," "LUNAR STROLL: PHOTOGRAPHING LAUREL HILL AFTER HOURS," "Cinema in the Cemetery," and "A GHOSTLY CIRCUS: FIRE ARTS PERFORMANCE in the CEMETERY." The cemetery also hosts events like "1865: LINCOLN'S ASSASSINATION and the END of the CIVIL WAR" and a "MEMORIAL DAY PARADE, SERVICE and RECEPTION."

Other notable events include a discussion on "Vaccination and the State: A Panel Discussion on Ending the Personal Belief Exemption in Pennsylvania" at the College of Physicians, and a talk by Deborah Harkness on "An Evening with Deborah Harkness" exploring alchemy and historical figures.

Event Logistics

Most events require pre-registration, with costs varying from free to $20 per person. Contact information, websites, and specific times and locations are provided for each event. Many events are open to the public, with some having age restrictions (e.g., 21+ for "Science on Tap").

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of science, history, and culture, with a strong emphasis on Philadelphia's rich heritage and its institutions. The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT) positions itself as a facilitator of intellectual engagement, providing a platform for diverse topics and discussions. The publication promotes a skeptical and evidence-based approach, evident in its name and its affiliation with critical thinking organizations. The extensive listing of events suggests a commitment to making knowledge accessible to the public, encouraging participation in lectures, workshops, and community gatherings. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting intellectual curiosity and informed discourse across a wide spectrum of disciplines.