Phactum - 2016 07 - July

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: July/August/September 2016
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Type: Newsletter and Propaganda Organ

This issue of Phactum, dated July/August/September 2016, is published by the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking. The cover prominently features an article titled "How Laurel Hill Cemetery Can Teach Us About Beer in Philadelphia" by Michael T. Lewandowski. The issue also includes a quote from Benjamin Franklin about beer.

Beer in Philadelphia: A Historical Perspective

The lead article by Michael T. Lewandowski explores the historical connections between Laurel Hill Cemetery and the history of beer in Philadelphia. It highlights the 500th anniversary of the Reinheitsgebot, the German beer purity law proclaimed by Bavarian Duke Wilhelm IV in 1516. This law, which stipulated the use of only barley, hops, and water, was crucial for protecting beer quality and public health. Historians speculate it also aimed to reserve wheat for bread baking. The article notes that this law has remained in force in Bavaria and influenced beer culture globally.

Frederick Graff, a resident of Laurel Hill Cemetery, is credited with playing a key role in developing Philadelphia's water system in the 18th century, which was vital for the city to become a leading beer source. Graff, appointed superintendent and engineer of the Philadelphia Water Works in 1805, advocated for and designed the revolutionary Fairmount Water Works and a cast iron pipe system. This system, completed in 1815, provided a reliable water supply via gravity, overcoming the limitations of early steam engines and benefiting Philadelphia brewers.

The article also discusses William Massey, a 19th-century brewer and malt producer who significantly contributed to Philadelphia's brewing industry. Massey, who emigrated from England, worked at Gray's brewery and later became the sole owner of Poultney, Collins & Massey. By 1877, his brewery was the 11th largest in the United States. Massey was also a philanthropist, but the brewery eventually closed in 1894 after his leadership ended.

John Wagner is mentioned for bringing the first new-world lager yeast cultures from Bavaria to Philadelphia in 1840. Although his attempt to run a brewery from his house was unsuccessful, his yeast import revolutionized brewing. Subsequently, Charles Wolf and Charles Engel established the United States' first large-scale lager brewery, the Engel & Wolf Brewery, in their sugar refinery. The brewery later moved to Fountain Green in 1849, utilizing deep caverns for aging beer. The brewery was demolished in 1870 when the City of Philadelphia expanded Fairmount Park. Engel then merged with Gustavus Bergner to form the Bergner & Engel Brewing Company, which ceased production due to Prohibition.

The article concludes by noting that Engel and Bergner are buried next to each other at Laurel Hill Cemetery and promotes an upcoming event called "Pints and Plots: Oktoberfest in the Cemetery."

Upcoming PhACT Events and Discussions

The issue details several upcoming events hosted by the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT). Meetings are held on the third Saturday of most months at Community College of Philadelphia, hosted by Dr. David Cattell. Parking is available for $4.00.

On Saturday, September 17, 2016, Dr. Rob Brotherton, an academic psychologist and science writer, was scheduled to discuss "The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories." Brotherton, who holds a PhD on the subject from Goldsmiths, University of London, explores why people believe conspiracy theories, their harm, and the cognitive biases that contribute to them. He argues that conspiracy theorizing is a predictable product of how brains work.

Another upcoming lecture on Saturday, October 15, 2016, features Richard Saunders discussing "Thinking Critically about Money and Investing." Saunders, with 25 years of experience in the Philadelphia District Attorney's office and with AARP's Consumer Task Force, aims to empower people with knowledge to avoid financial scams and identity theft.

A further lecture is scheduled for Saturday, November 19, 2016, with the program and speaker to be announced.

Book Review: Suspicious Minds

Page 5 features a review of Rob Brotherton's book, "Suspicious Minds: Why We Believe Conspiracy Theories." The review highlights that conspiracy theorists are not necessarily "tin-foil hat" wearers but are ordinary people. The book delves into the history and consequences of conspiracism, exploring the psychological research that explains why people are drawn to implausible theories. It suggests that these theories tap into deep-seated desires, fears, and assumptions, and are a predictable outcome of how our minds function.

A quote from James Madison is included: "The strongest passions and most dangerous weaknesses of the human breast; ambition, avarice, vanity, the honorable or venal love of fame, are all in conspiracy against the desire and duty of peace."

Letters to the Editor

Several letters are included. Paul Schlueter III comments on an article about a creationist dinosaur museum, questioning the authenticity of supposed evidence linking dinosaurs and humans. He also discusses the article on the mysterious deer in Scotland, suggesting that herding deer might have been a common practice among ancient peoples.

Dan Drozd references an article from The Washington Post about Greenland glacier melt, suggesting it contradicts a statement made at a previous PhACT lecture. Howard J. Wilk shares a minor coincidence regarding parking at the Jenkintown train station.

Various Ruminations

This section, collected by Ray Haupt, covers a variety of topics:

• The Red Baron: It recounts the first aerial combat victory of Manfred Albrecht Freiherr von Richthofen on September 17, 1916, during World War I.
• Shark Update: It mentions the detection of a Great White shark named Mary Lee swimming off the coast of New Jersey in May 2016, noting her Twitter presence and tracking information.
• Organic Agriculture is a Hoax: An article by PhACT member Eric Krieg points to a Forbes.com article that questions the benefits of organic foods. It argues that organic fertilizers and insecticides can be worse than conventional ones and that organic products are not necessarily free of GMOs.
• Homeopathy Potency: This section provides guidance on choosing homeopathic potencies (6C, 30C, 200C, M) for self-medication, explaining that lower potencies cover a wider range of symptoms, while higher potencies require more precise matching but have longer effects.
• Homeopathic Dilution Nomenclature: A brief refresher on homeopathic dilution scales (X, C, M, Q) is provided, explaining the factors of dilution and the process of succussion. It notes that at high dilutions, it's unlikely a single molecule of the original substance remains, but proponents believe water retains a memory.
• Burzynski Proceedings: It mentions that Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski, an oncologist facing controversy for his cancer treatments, is again involved in legal proceedings in Texas.

Internet Health Scams Survey

Dr. Bernie Garrett and his team at UBC are conducting a study on deceptive internet-marketed health practices and invite readers to complete a short online questionnaire. Participants can enter a draw for Amazon gift vouchers. The survey aims to gather feedback on health product advertising and scams online.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum include historical inquiry (particularly concerning beer and local history), critical thinking, skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims (as seen in the conspiracy theories and organic agriculture articles), and an interest in fringe science and alternative health practices (homeopathy). The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting critical examination of information, encouraging reader participation, and providing a platform for diverse, often unconventional, viewpoints within the context of skepticism and rational thought. The inclusion of "Infamous Rational Errors" and the focus on critical thinking suggest a commitment to debunking flawed reasoning.

Phactum, July/August/September 2016 issue, covers a diverse range of topics from medical controversies and health trends to scientific discussions on climate change and mathematics, and economic theories on poverty. The magazine features articles, meeting reports, and book reviews.

Articles and Reports

Medical Controversies and Health Trends

The issue begins with a report on the legal battle between the Texas Medical Board and Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski, M.D. The board filed a 202-page amended complaint in July 2014, alleging a pattern of substandard care in managing seven patients. Criticisms included improper retainers, inadequate tumor status evaluation, lack of rationale for drug regimens, failure to provide adequate informed consent, use of unlicensed and unqualified individuals, unnecessary tests, poor medical record-keeping, exorbitant prices, and improper billing to insurance companies. The board and the FDA have been attempting to curb Burzynski's activities for over 25 years. An article in Skeptical Inquirer by Professor Blaskiewicz is referenced.

Another health-related piece discusses the emergence of intravenous vitamin therapy in Vancouver, BC, as reported by the Vancouver Sun. This mobile service offers home delivery of IV megadose vitamins. Bernie Garrett, Professor of Nursing at the University of British Columbia, was interviewed for the story, providing an evidence-based medicine perspective. The article also mentions Dr. Erica Kubanek, ND, an employee of naturopath Dr. Heidi Rootes, founder of IV Wellness Boutique. The editorial staff expresses skepticism about the health claims of high-dosage intravenous vitamin therapy.

A report by Dr. Stephen Barrett, published in Consumer Health Digest on January 31, 2016, highlights a Frontline documentary that examines problems in the marketing and regulation of vitamins, herbals, and other supplement products. The report focuses on contaminated products, irresponsible promotion, regulatory weaknesses, and industry denial.

Science and Environment

A meeting report from April 16, 2016, details a presentation by Dr. Thomas Delworth, a climatologist, on "Global Warming and Climate Change - Where Are We Now?". Dr. Delworth explained the greenhouse effect as a natural phenomenon essential for life on Earth. He emphasized that human emissions of CO2 are amplifying this effect, leading to global warming. While past warming events occurred over millions of years due to natural phenomena, the current rate of CO2 increase is unprecedented. Dr. Delworth presented model predictions showing that drastic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions could mitigate the worst effects, while dire predictions suggest extreme environmental changes lasting thousands of years. Potential actions include reducing CO2 emissions through renewable energy or exploring geo-engineering, though Dr. Delworth expressed concerns about the latter's unintended consequences.

Mathematics and Culture

The issue features a review of "A Numerate Life: A Mathematician Explores the Vagaries of Life, His Own and Probably Yours" by John Allen Paulos. The book is described as a "meta-memoir" that uses intuitive mathematical ideas to explore life's questions, such as the reliability of memory and the statistical bias in presuppositions. Paulos combines storytelling with scientific skepticism to re-evaluate personal experiences. The review highlights vignettes from his biography and how concepts like arithmetic, geometry, nonlinear dynamics, and logarithms offer new perspectives on life. A list of other books by John Allen Paulos is also provided.

Expeditions and History

A report on the "PhACT Expedition to Haycock Mountain" on May 21, 2016, recounts an investigation into rumors of a "new Wildman" inhabiting the mountain. The expedition referenced historical accounts of "James Miller, the 'Wild Man of Haycock Mountain'" from the early 20th century, and "Adam Weaver, the Haycock mountain outlaw" from a 1922 newspaper article. The expedition aimed to find evidence of a new feral man, with participants including leader Don Nigroni, Robb Kerr (botany), and Kim Sheridan (wildlife photography). The report notes that the expedition was successful in finding its objective, with photos of a "new Feral Man" presented.

Economics and Social Issues

An article titled "Ending Poverty in America" by Mike Curtis, inspired by Henry George's "Progress & Poverty," analyzes the economic landscape. It notes that while the rich are getting richer, wages for the majority have been frozen since the 1960s. Despite numerous anti-poverty programs, nearly 15% of Americans remain impoverished. The article argues that increased expenditures on healthcare, education, and job training have not created enough jobs to match population growth or raise wages. The root causes of poverty are explored, with a focus on two primary factors affecting communities: lack of education and self-discipline, or alcoholism, or divorce. The article delves into Henry George's philosophy, particularly his "Single-Tax" idea and the concept of Georgism, which posits that individuals own the value they create, while natural resources and common opportunities, like land value, should be owned in common.

The economic analysis explains that technological progress increases productivity but benefits are not shared equally, with gains going to the "asset class." The article discusses how an "equal opportunity" for all workers would lead to poverty reduction. It highlights the role of land ownership and speculation in exacerbating poverty, arguing that the "rental value of land" should be captured for public use. The piece concludes with a quote from Henry George emphasizing the power of thinking individuals.

A separate section introduces an abridged version of Henry George's "Progress and Poverty," highlighting its analysis of industrial depressions and the causes of poverty, attributing wealth gaps to the monopolization of natural opportunities.

Events and Education

The issue includes listings for events at the Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia, such as "Libations with Leidy," "Crash! Why Birds Collide with Buildings in Philadelphia & Beyond," and "Archives Month Philly - Philadelphia Lantern Slide Salon." It also details the "Adult Education Fall 2016 Course Schedule" at the Wagner, offering free courses on "The Cosmos: A History of Early Astronomy," "Wild City Plants," and "Urban Entomology."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical and evidence-based approach, particularly concerning health claims and alternative medicine, as seen in the critique of intravenous vitamin therapy and the reporting on Dr. Burzynski. There is a clear emphasis on scientific research and rational analysis, evident in the climate change report and the review of John Allen Paulos's work. The inclusion of Henry George's economic theories suggests an interest in social and economic justice, framed within a historical and philosophical context. The editorial stance appears to favor critical examination of claims, promotion of scientific understanding, and exploration of societal issues through a rational lens.

This issue of Phactum, dated July/August/September 2016, presents a collection of articles exploring diverse and often intersecting themes, including economic philosophy, personal customization, cutting-edge genetic engineering, climate change, and the demarcation between scientific understanding and mythological belief.

Economic Philosophy and Social Reform

The issue opens with an article discussing the economic theories of Henry George, as interpreted by Mike Curtis of the Henry George Institute. It posits that the 'free-land opportunity' increases living standards and wages. The core idea is that by collecting the rental value of land for social purposes and abolishing taxes that penalize production, poverty can be eradicated. This fund, generated from land rent, could also support government functions, national healthcare, social security, and medical research, potentially offering a dividend to all citizens. The article emphasizes that this dividend is not a redistribution of wealth but a sharing of community-generated value.

The Philosophy of Customization: M.A.F.U.B.T.I.M.I.

Paul Schlueter III contributes an essay exploring the acronym M.A.F.U.B.T.I.M.I. (Made All Fd Up, But Then I Modified It). This philosophy, common among hot rodders and other enthusiasts, extends to various domains, including modifying motorcycles, guitars, and even homes. The author notes that in the modern age, while direct modification might be less common due to integrated manufacturing, the trend persists through custom orders and personalized choices in products and services. This concept is extended to 'custom philosophy,' where individuals tailor their beliefs and thinking to their own preferences, reflecting a fundamental human drive to modify the environment and ourselves.

CRISPR/Cas9 and Gene Drive Technology

Another article by Paul Schlueter III delves into CRISPR/Cas9, a revolutionary gene editing technique. It explains how CRISPR RNA guides sequences to specific DNA locations, and the Cas9 enzyme breaks the DNA, allowing new sequences to be incorporated. The 'gene drive' aspect is highlighted as particularly significant, as it can spread alterations across chromosomes and generations, unlike traditional GMOs which are limited to a single generation. The potential for rapid, species-wide modification is immense, with implications for pest control and disease eradication. However, the article raises serious ethical concerns about the potential for misuse, accidental release, and the difficulty of recalling such changes once introduced into the environment. Examples discussed include potential applications for invasive species like carp and mosquitoes, and the ethical debates surrounding human gene editing, including a call for precautionary restraint on experiments that could lead to pregnancy.

Climate Change: Science vs. Politics and Mythology

Howard J. Wilk examines the complexities of climate change, questioning the simplistic 'warming' or 'cooling' narratives. He argues that while natural cycles exist, the current decade-by-decade trend is upward and influenced by human activity. Wilk criticizes the politicization of climate science, referencing Senator James Inhofe's views and contrasting them with the scientific work of Svante Arrhenius, who in the late 19th century described the 'hot-house theory' of the atmosphere. The article touches on the potential benefits of increased carbon dioxide for agriculture and the cultivation of new lands, while also acknowledging that climate change can negatively impact other regions. The author emphasizes that while climate change is a scientific matter, its classification as 'bad' or 'good' is a matter of informed opinion.

The Sunrise Myth vs. Scientific Reality

Paul Schlueter III also contributes an essay titled 'The Sunrise Myth,' arguing that common language used to describe sunrise and sunset is mythical and does not reflect actual reality. He posits that our perception is limited by our frame of reference on Earth, leading us to believe the sun moves across the sky. In reality, the sun orbits the galactic center, and the Earth orbits the sun and spins on its axis. The article contrasts this scientific understanding with ancient mythological explanations, including those found in the Bible, Koran, and Torah, suggesting that these are 'sheer fantasy' and urging readers to embrace scientific study for truth and reality.

PhACT Calendar

The issue concludes with the PhACT Calendar, listing upcoming events related to skepticism and scientific inquiry, including lectures on the psychology of conspiracy theories and critical thinking about money and investing, hosted by the PhACT organization in Philadelphia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phactum consistently champions scientific inquiry and rational analysis over myth, political rhetoric, and unsubstantiated beliefs. There is a strong emphasis on understanding complex systems, whether economic, technological, or cosmological, through evidence-based reasoning. The articles advocate for critical thinking, questioning established narratives, and engaging with new ideas, while also acknowledging the profound ethical responsibilities that accompany technological advancements like gene editing. The magazine appears to promote a worldview grounded in empirical evidence and scientific consensus, encouraging readers to challenge assumptions and seek deeper understanding.

This issue of Phactum, published by the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT), covers events scheduled for July, August, and September 2016. The magazine serves as a calendar of events related to science, history, technology, and medicine, with a particular focus on activities in the Philadelphia area.

Featured Events and Series

The Philadelphia Area Center for the History of Science (PACHS)

PACHS maintains an extensive calendar of events related to the history of science, technology, and medicine. Several PACHS-affiliated events are listed, including discussions at Eastern State Penitentiary and lectures at various institutions.

Searchlight Series (Eastern State Penitentiary)

This ongoing series, held on the first Tuesday of every month, features discussions about crime, justice, and the American prison system. Events are free and open to the public, with no reservations required. Support for the series comes from The George W. Rentschler Foundation.

Laurel Hill Cemetery Events

• Laurel Hill Cemetery hosts a variety of events throughout the period, including:
• Into the Veil: An immersive evening exploring the liminal world between life and the afterlife, presented with Atlas Obscura.
• Death is a Cabaret, Ol' Chum: A theatrical performance as part of the Philly Fringe Festival.
• Pints and Plots: Oktoberfest in the Cemetery: A walking tour focusing on the history of beer in Philadelphia.
• 8th Annual Rest in Peace 5K Run: A Halloween costume run and after-party.
• Hot Spots and Storied Plots: A historical walking tour.
• Soul Crawl: Haunted Halloween History Tours: Flashlight tours exploring the cemetery's history.
• Gravediggers' Ball: An annual fundraiser for the Friends of Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• The Worlds of Thomas Jefferson: A walking tour led by a Jefferson scholar.

Science on Tap

A monthly gathering featuring brief, informal presentations by scientists or experts, followed by conversation, food, and beer. These events are held at National Mechanics and are free and open to the public for those 21 or accompanied by a parent.

Penn Lightbulb Café (University of Pennsylvania)

These events, held at World Cafe Live, feature talks by UPenn faculty on various topics. Examples include John Lapinski discussing "The 2016 Election, Research & Data" and Vijay Balasubramanian on "Decoding Your Mental GPS: Transcendental Numbers in the Brain."

Rittenhouse Astronomical Society

Astronomy lectures open to the general public are held at the Fels Planetarium at The Franklin Institute. The society aims to spread knowledge and awareness of astronomy.

Chemical Heritage Foundation (CHF) Events

• CHF hosts several events, including:
• Brown Bag Lectures: Talks by scholars on various topics, such as publishing a scientist's correspondence or the work of Humphry Davy.
• Synthesis Lectures: Presentations based on new books, such as Jan Golinski's biography of Humphry Davy.

College of Physicians of Philadelphia Events

• This institution hosts a range of events, including:
• Exposed: Philadelphia Physicians in Photographs: An Archives Month Philly event showcasing historical medical photographs.
• Perfect Vessels: Skulls, Symbols & Symmetry: A talk by artist David Orr on his work with human skulls.
• Grand Rounds: Tobacco, Retail Stores, and the Marketing of Disease: A discussion on the impact of tobacco advertising.

Other Notable Events

• The Richard Hopper Day Memorial Medal Award Presentation and Talk by Elizabeth Kolbert: At the Academy of Natural Sciences, discussing "The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History."
• PENN SCIENCE CAFÉ: Featuring talks by University of Pennsylvania researchers.
• PhACT Lecture: Dr. Rob Brotherton speaking on "The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories."
• ARMED AND DANGEROUS: AN ICONOGRAPHY OF PROTECTIVE MIDDLE AND NEW KINGDOM DEMONS: A program at the University of Pennsylvania Museum.
• DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES ARE CHANGING THE FACE OF 21ST CENTURY ARCHAEOLOGY: A lecture by Neil Asher Silberman at the University of Pennsylvania Museum.
• Susan O. Montgomery Lecture: Linda Greenhouse discusses her book "The Burger Court and the Rise of the Judicial Right."
• The American Presidency | Neil Oxman: A talk on the history of political spots on TV.
• Poe: An Immersive Performance of the Masque of the Red Death: At the Mütter Museum.
• Whatever Did They Eat?: A talk on food scarcity during the winter of 1777-78.
• The Dead Milkmen in Concert: A performance at Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• TURKISH FILM FESTIVAL: ISTANBUL UNVEILED: At the University of Pennsylvania Museum.
• The Institute for Science and Religion: Discussions on topics like "Do Humans Have Minds? Neuroscientific and Biblical Issues" and "Outsourcing Memory? Can we Upload our Memory to a Computer?"
• Crash! Why Birds Collide with Buildings in Philadelphia & Beyond: A talk by Keith Russell at the Wagner Free Institute of Science.
• The American Revolution Round Table of Philadelphia: Meetings featuring talks on historical topics.
• PhACT Lectures: Scheduled lectures on various topics.

Socrates Café

A nationwide network of philosophical discussion groups with meetings in Springfield, Glenside, and Abington.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes engagement with science, history, and critical thinking through a variety of public events. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging intellectual curiosity and providing access to educational and cultural programming within the Philadelphia area. The publication emphasizes free and open access to many of these events, while also noting when advance reservations or paid admission are required. The inclusion of the "PhACT" lectures and the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking's gratitude for hosting facilities suggest a strong commitment to fostering critical thought and discussion.

The issue also includes information on how to support PhACT through membership and donations, and provides contact information for the PhACTum editor. A quote from Stephen Jay Gould on the nature of scientific fact underscores the publication's emphasis on evidence-based reasoning.