Phactum - 2017 04 - April

Magazine Overview

Phactum, the newsletter and propaganda organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, presents its April/May/June 2017 issue. The cover prominently features the article "The Mystery of the Templar Head Idols" by Don Nigroni, alongside other content related to critical thinking and science.

The Mystery of the Templar Head Idols

Don Nigroni's article delves into the historical accusations of the Knights Templar worshipping head idols. The article notes that while texts like "The Templars: Selected Sources" mention these alleged idols, none were found during the confiscation of Templar property in France following their arrests on October 13, 1307. The accusations, listed in the Order for the arrests issued by King Philip IV of France, included "made offerings to idols."

The testimony of Hugh of Pairaud, Visitor of France, is presented, where he allegedly described a head idol with four feet. However, the article also references the Episcopal inquiry at Clermont (June 1309) which listed various descriptions of these alleged idols. Malcolm Barber's "The Trial of the Templars" and Peter Partner's "The Knights Templar and their Myth" are cited, suggesting that descriptions of the idol, often called 'Baphomet,' varied widely and that the charges may have been concocted to "smear" the Templars.

Barbara Frale's research is also discussed, highlighting that diocesan bishops came to understand that the "idol-head" was likely a reliquary containing saintly remains, a common object in medieval art. The article also touches upon the theory that the "idol" might have been related to the Shroud of Turin. It is suggested that the confessions of idol worship were likely extracted under torture, and that the Templars' leaders may have been betrayed by the King and Pope.

Philip IV of France (1268-1314)

A biographical sketch of Philip IV of France is provided, detailing his reign, his aggressive expansion of monarchical power, his expulsion of Jews from France due to debt, and his arrest of the Knights Templar on October 13, 1307, driven by his own debts to the Order and a desire for their assets. His personal life, including scandals involving his daughters-in-law and his death from a stroke, are also mentioned.

Phactum Table Of Contents

The issue includes a variety of articles and features: "The Mystery of the Templar Head Idols" by Don Nigroni; "Upcoming PhACT Events"; "Letters to the Editor"; "Various Ruminations"; "Science Fair Report"; "Jan/Feb/Mar 2017 Meeting Reports"; "The Monty Hall Paradox" by Howard Wilk; "So Then, Why DO Bees Fly" by Paul Schlueter III; "NYC Trip - Poetry" by Albert Fried-Cassorla; "Off the Beaten Path" by Kim A. Sheridan; "Mattering: The Birth of a New Paradigm" by Paul Schlueter III; "The Determination of Free Will" by A. Granville Fonda; and "PhACT Calendar" events at the Wagner Free Institute of Science and Laurel Hill Cemetery.

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

This section introduces a pamphlet compiled by Paul Schlueter III, listing egregious flaws in thinking and argument tactics. The pamphlet is available free at PhACT Meetings, and contributors are invited to expand the listing. A new entry, "GAMBLER'S FALLACY," is explained: the erroneous belief that past random events influence the probability of future events, using a coin flip example.

Upcoming PhACT Events

Details are provided for several upcoming events hosted by PhACT:

• Saturday, April 15, 2017 at 2:00 PM: Dr. Paul Offit will discuss his new book, "Pandora's Lab: Seven Stories of Science Gone Wrong," at Community College of Philadelphia. Offit, a vaccinologist, will focus on scientific inventions that have had negative consequences.
• Saturday, May 20, 2017 at 10:00 AM: A PhACT Expedition to Valley Forge is planned, involving a hike led by Eric Krieg, exploring local folklore and historic buildings. Rob Kerr and Kim Sheridan will be present to identify flora and fauna.
• Saturday, July 22, 2017: A PhACT Picnic will be held at Mondauk Common Park, featuring a book swap and picnic.
• Saturday, September 16, 2017: The PhACT Lecture Series for 2017/2018 begins.

Pandora's Lab: Seven Stories of Science Gone Wrong by Paul A. Offit, M.D.

This section provides a description of Paul A. Offit's book, highlighting its exploration of scientific ideas that led to disaster, such as the rise of opioids, trans fats, and the controversy surrounding DDT. Offit uses case studies like e-cigarettes, GMOs, and ADHD treatments to teach how to distinguish good science from bad.

Letters to the Editor

Amy Lowenstein of Yardley, PA, writes in response to a previous issue, questioning Howard J. Wilk's premise of a choice between "despicable A or disreputable B" and advocating for "none of the above" or third-party candidates like Alyson Kennedy of the Socialist Workers Party. She criticizes the assumption that people are forced to choose between two bad options.

Howard J. Wilk responds, acknowledging that write-in votes are possible and promising a follow-up letter to explain his "randomized-response" method. The editor notes their own confusion regarding the method.

Wilk then provides a detailed explanation of the randomized response method, designed to poll sensitive topics by ensuring anonymity. The method involves a die roll to determine whether a respondent answers truthfully about their preference or gives the opposite answer, thus protecting their identity.

Other Editor's Notes and Articles

An editor's note discusses the visual similarity between the outlines of South Australia and the District of Columbia, referencing an article by Howard J. Wilk. Another editor's note highlights the case of Canadian banker Brian Molony, who embezzled over $10 million, and recommends the book "Stung: The Incredible Obsession of Brian Molony."

An editor's comment on wildfire containment discusses the process of measuring containment and the distinction between "contained" and "extinguished" fires, emphasizing the continued danger of contained wildfires.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and skepticism, encouraging readers to question assumptions and analyze information rigorously. The editorial stance appears to favor rational inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, as evidenced by the focus on debunking flawed arguments (Infamous Rational Errors) and scrutinizing historical and scientific claims. The publication also serves as a platform for community engagement through its event listings and letters to the editor, fostering discussion and debate among its readers.

Phactum, April/May/June 2017 issue, presents a collection of articles and reader contributions covering a wide spectrum of topics, from scientific inquiry and environmental issues to social commentary and personal reflections. The magazine's overarching theme appears to be the promotion of critical thinking and a science-based approach to understanding the world, while also engaging with more speculative or 'woo woo' subjects.

Wildfire Management and Ecological Cycles

The issue opens with a piece by Paul Schlueter III from Dallas, PA, discussing the evolving understanding of wildfire management. He contrasts the historical approach of immediate dousing with the modern realization that wildfires can be a natural part of forest regeneration, essential for opening pine cones and clearing undergrowth. He draws a parallel between wildfire containment and managing prisoners, suggesting that while complete containment is costly and sometimes counterproductive, remediation and controlled burning can lead to healthier growth. Evidence-based reason is presented as the guiding policy.

Rationalization in Science and Humor

Howard J. Wilk of Philadelphia contributes a letter to the editor regarding a previous article on 'Rational Thinking is Teachable.' Wilk clarifies that 'rationalize' is not a pejorous term in science, citing Einstein's theory of general relativity as an example of a theory that rationalizes observed anomalies. He emphasizes that a rationalizing theory provides an explanation but doesn't guarantee correctness, as future observations could prove it wrong. Wilk also shares a joke about the cost of hotel rooms in Nova Scotia, linking its specific phrasing to his knowledge of music from a certain era.

The Kevin Youkilis URL Quirk

Another reader contribution, also from Howard J. Wilk, discusses an 'embarrassing formatting oddity' noted on baseball websites where the URL for pages featuring Jewish player Kevin Youkilis contained 'youkike.' This quirk arose from an automatic URL-generating algorithm that combined the first five letters of a player's surname with the first two letters of his first name. Wilk recounts how this was discovered in 2007 and manually corrected, but a sabermetrician informed him that such a database nomenclature system dates back to at least 1996, predating Youkilis's draft year.

Various Ruminations: Woo Woo and Real Science

Collected and written by Ray Haupt, this section offers a series of short observations and news items.

Paranormal Societies

Haupt notes the existence of 3,991 Paranormal Societies in the U.S.A., citing the website www.paranormalsocieties.com, and expresses a sense of being 'massively outnumbered.'

Potatoes on Mars

An article from phys.org is referenced, detailing how scientists at the International Potato Center in Peru have successfully grown potatoes in a chamber mimicking Martian conditions. This suggests a potential for future Mars colonists to export potato chips, humorously referencing a Robert A. Heinlein novel about giant cabbages on Mars.

Anti-Vaxxer Activity and a Happy Ending?

This section critically examines anti-vaccination sentiment, presenting a story from The Daily Telegraph in Sydney, Australia, about a mother who refused a Vitamin K injection for her newborn. The article details the importance of Vitamin K for blood clotting and the standard practice of administering it to newborns. It highlights the anti-vax movement's opposition, describing it as an 'unnatural evil.' The piece also mentions the Natural Society's cautious but critical view of Vitamin K injections, noting potential psycho-emotional trauma and physiologic instability. It further discusses the prevalence of anti-vax sentiment in Byron Shire, Australia, and its connection to a whooping cough epidemic. The section also reports on a measles outbreak in Romania, attributing it to poverty and anti-vaxxer activity, and notes low vaccination rates.

Homeopathy

The magazine presents information on homeopathy, including an article from Homeopathy Plus, an Australian newsletter. It discusses homeopathic immunisation (homeoprophylaxis) as an alternative to vaccines, citing its perceived advantages of being inexpensive, easily distributed, and safe, with remedies for epidemic diseases. Examples are given of governments in India, Cuba, Brazil, Thailand, and Colombo using homeopathy for epidemic management. However, PhACT explicitly states it does not endorse homeopathy.

Arsenic and Darwinian Evolution

An article from New Scientist reports on people in the Atacama Desert, Chile, who have evolved to tolerate unusually high levels of arsenic in their drinking water. Scientists theorize that arsenic's negative health effects, such as inducing miscarriages, acted as a natural selection pressure, leading to this adaptation. The article also draws a parallel to the evolution of lactose tolerance in humans.

Gambling Addiction and its Societal Impact

This section features several reports on gambling addiction:

• Brain Disorder: A study by a Japanese research group found that compulsive gambling is linked to a brain disorder causing reduced activity in the frontal lobe, potentially aiding in treatment development.
• Opioid Crisis vs. Gambling: The US consumes 80% of the world's opioids, with over 33,000 deaths in 2015. However, Americans spent $119 billion on gambling in 2013, with state and federal governments benefiting from gambling taxes, thus showing little incentive to curb the industry.
• Airport Gambling in Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania House of Representatives struck down an amendment that would have allowed gambling in airports.
• Grant Money Allocation: A discussion on whether gambling grant money in Luzerne County, PA, is being used effectively, with concerns that it often benefits private companies.
• Lottery Play and Addiction: A study suggests that daily lottery play is linked to gambling addiction.
• Credit Card Gambling: Pennsylvania lawmakers are debating a proposal to allow the use of credit cards for gambling.
• Criminal Charges for Self-Excluded Gamblers: A state representative in Pennsylvania proposed a bill to offer treatment to individuals who violate their self-exclusion from casinos.
• Brain Structures and Addiction: A meta-analysis indicates that reward system dysfunctions in the brain differ between substance and gambling addiction, with decreased striatum activity observed in both during reward anticipation.

PhACT Participates in School Science Fairs

PhACT reports on its participation in two countywide science fairs: the George Washington Carver Fair in Philadelphia County and the Bucks County Science Fair. The organization awarded cash prizes and medallions to students demonstrating critical thinking skills. The article lists some of the winning projects, including topics like toothpaste efficacy, placebo effects, drug solubility, and WiFi blocking materials.

Meeting Reports: January, February, March 2017

Mathematician John A. Paulos Discusses "A Numerate Life"

This report details a PhACT meeting featuring mathematician John A. Paulos, a professor at Temple University. Paulos discussed his book "A Numerate Life - A Mathematician Explores the Vagaries of Life, His Own and Probably Yours." He shared insights on life's perplexities, particularly coincidences, and discussed mathematics as a form of critical thinking. Questions were raised about whether abstract thinking is innate or acquired, and Paulos hinted it is largely acquired, though some individuals possess greater natural talent. He also noted that science, particularly neuroscience, still has much to learn about the human brain.

Professor Jon Nyquist on Disasters: Geology vs. Hollywood

Environmental Geologist Professor Jon Nyquist from Temple University lectured on the inaccuracies in Hollywood's depiction of natural disasters. He contrasted the cinematic portrayal of tsunamis with their real-world behavior, explaining that they typically surge inland as a white foam rather than a breaking crest. Nyquist emphasized the importance of early alert systems for mitigating damage from tsunamis and asteroid impacts, noting the lack of such systems for the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. He concluded that humans are largely powerless against these calamities, relying on early warning systems for survival.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phactum consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly in areas like anti-vaccination and homeopathy. The magazine actively engages with current scientific research and societal issues, presenting a diverse range of perspectives while maintaining a clear editorial stance favoring evidence-based analysis. The inclusion of reader contributions and meeting reports suggests a community-oriented approach, encouraging dialogue and intellectual engagement. The magazine also demonstrates a willingness to address controversial topics, such as the anti-vax movement and the societal costs of gambling, with a balanced yet critical perspective. The editorial note regarding the werewolf question invites readers to apply critical thinking, reason, and science, reinforcing the publication's core values.

This issue of Phactum magazine, dated April/May/June 2017, features a cover story on George Hrab, a skeptic and musician, presenting his unique approach to science communication through story and song. The magazine also includes articles on the Monty Hall Paradox, the aerodynamics of bee flight, poetry inspired by New York City, and a feature on the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge.

George Hrab: Skepticism Through Story and Song

Reported by Michael Devinsky, this section details a presentation by George Hrab at PhACT. Hrab uses song and comedy to convey scientific knowledge, bridging the gap between the scientific community and popular audiences, similar to Neil Degrasse Tyson. While Hrab's approach is praised for making science accessible and correcting misconceptions, the reviewer suggests that understanding the 'why' behind facts (like why blood is red) is more crucial than memorizing facts themselves. The reviewer also touches upon the societal tendency to prioritize memorization and the importance of embracing outlandish theories for progress, citing Richard Feynman's perspective on doubt.

George Hrab's Musical and Philosophical Themes

Reported by Nicolas Bugueno, this article delves into the themes explored in George Hrab's songs and lectures. Hrab addresses topics such as science, skepticism, atheism, religion, and rationalism, aiming to challenge conventional ideas and encourage critical thinking. Songs like "God Is Not Great" question the concept of a perfect God, while "Everything Alive Will Die Someday" reflects on the scientific reality of death. "When I Was Your Age" examines generational impact and the influence of technology on societal values, contrasting 21st-century youth with their 19th-century counterparts.

The Monty Hall Paradox

Authored by Howard J. Wilk, this article provides an explanation of the Monty Hall Paradox, a probability puzzle that arose from a talk by John Paulos. The paradox involves a game show scenario where a contestant chooses a door, and after the host opens another door revealing a goat, the contestant is offered a chance to switch. Wilk explains that switching doors significantly increases the probability of winning the car. He notes that even prominent mathematicians like Paul Erdös initially doubted the solution, requiring empirical evidence from computer trials. The article also includes a link for readers to try the paradox themselves and a humorous anecdote about Wilk's interaction with Paulos regarding the 'best explanation' of the paradox.

So Then, Why DO Bees Fly?

Written by Paul Schlueter III, this piece debunks the common misconception that bees cannot fly according to the laws of aerodynamics. Schlueter argues that this claim is a myth and that aerodynamics is a natural science that explains phenomena, not declares them impossible. He proposes a "First Law of Aerodynamics": "That which can routinely be observed to fly is, by definition, ABLE to fly." The article uses examples like Harley-Davidson engines and Leonardo da Vinci's designs to illustrate how seemingly impossible things are achieved through understanding and application of scientific principles. It also touches upon the importance of empirical testing and observation in science, contrasting it with unfounded assertions.

NYC Trip Poems

By Albert Fried-Cassorla, this section features two poems, "NYC Poem 1. Sky" and "NYC Poem 2. Train to where?" The poems capture the sensory experiences and reflections of a trip to New York City, from observing the sky and urban landscapes to the journey on an Amtrak train. The poems evoke a sense of wonder, connection, and appreciation for the city's vibrant atmosphere and the shared experience with a companion. Albert Fried-Cassorla is identified as an Adjunct Professor of English and a poet.

Off the Beaten Path: Hidden in Plain Sight

Authored by Kim A. Sheridan, this article highlights the benefits of spending time in nature, particularly in urban green spaces like the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia. The refuge is described as an oasis offering stress relief, improved concentration, and inspiration. The article details the diverse flora and fauna found within the refuge, including butterflies, birds, turtles, and mammals, emphasizing the importance of preserving such natural habitats. It also provides practical information for visitors, such as location, hours, and what to expect.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phactum consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and a rational worldview. The articles encourage readers to question common assumptions, understand underlying principles rather than just memorizing facts, and appreciate the natural world through observation and scientific understanding. There is a clear emphasis on debunking myths and misconceptions, whether related to science, probability, or nature. The magazine also showcases creative expression through poetry and highlights the work of individuals who engage with these themes through various mediums like music, writing, and photography. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based reasoning and a thoughtful, curious approach to understanding the world.

This issue of Phactum, dated April/May/June 2017, features a cover story titled "MATTERING: The Birth of a New Paradigm" by Paul Schlueter III. The magazine explores contemporary philosophical and scientific ideas, with a particular focus on the concept of 'Mattering' and the age-old debate surrounding free will and determinism.

"Mattering: The Birth of a New Paradigm"

The lead article by Paul Schlueter III introduces "Mattering Theory," a concept presented by philosophers Rebecca Newberger Goldstein and Andy Norman. This theory addresses the human need to matter, to have value and importance. Schlueter explains that the theory grapples with the difficulty of deriving moral statements ('what ought to be') from empirical observations ('what is'), a problem famously noted by David Hume. Goldstein proposes that 'mattering' can be divided into 'what matters' and 'who matters,' with 'who matters' further divided into the first-person perspective (self-perception of importance) and the second-person plural (how others perceive one's importance). The article suggests that the first-person aspect is linked to the survival instinct, while the second-person aspect introduces a moral component to behavior as conscious beings interact and consider others' relative identities.

The theory is presented as a new framework for analyzing human morality, and it is noted that its supporters are still developing its ideas. The article encourages critical thinkers to engage with this developing dialogue. It is suggested that 'mattering' should exist independently of partisan affiliations, religion, or sexual orientation, emphasizing individual self-realization while also advocating for a secular humanist ideal where each member of society inherently matters and deserves human rights and self-determination.

David Hume (1711–1776)

A sidebar provides a biographical sketch of David Hume, highlighting his significance as a philosopher and historian. His major works, including "A Treatise of Human Nature" and "Enquiries concerning Human Understanding" and "Principles of Morals," are mentioned as influential. Despite contemporary criticisms of skepticism and atheism, Hume's influence is noted in the works of Adam Smith, Immanuel Kant, Jeremy Bentham, and Charles Darwin. He is recognized as an exponent of philosophical naturalism, a precursor to cognitive science, and an inspiration for ethical theories.

The Determination of Free Will

Another major article, "The Determination of Free Will" by A. Granville Fonda, PE, delves into the long-standing mind-body problem and the related debate between determinism and free will. Fonda begins by discussing determinism as grounded in Newtonian law, where every effect is determined by an antecedent cause. He notes that while quantum-scale events may be indeterministic, the brain, to be rational, must operate on pragmatic deterministic principles, as suggested by physicist Erwin Schroedinger.

Fonda examines arguments that condemn free will, citing philosophers like Thomas Huxley, Sam Harris, and Alfred Mele, who argue that decisions are subconscious and influenced by factors beyond our awareness, rendering free will an illusion. Evidence from independent tests is presented, suggesting that actions can precede conscious intent, supporting the idea that sensory perception might be processed subconsciously before conscious awareness.

However, Fonda also explores the alternative perspective that determinism may cultivate free will. He references Patrick Haggard's suggestion that humans learn voluntary action through reinforcement learning, where the feeling of willing becomes a consciously experienced proxy for subconscious deterministic causation. This view posits that determinism is the means by which free will is achieved, not its opposite. The article highlights how repetition and adaptive enhancement, observed in fetal development and in the rewiring of the brain in blind individuals, can reinforce volition.

Further support for this idea comes from J. T. Ismael, who describes self-governing systems in the brain as operating on a closed-loop system. This system involves information synthesis and decision-making that leads to a collective deliberative standpoint, creating a 'real unity' of selfhood. Fonda illustrates this with a mentation block diagram, showing a two-pass process where subconscious operations generate a tentative plan, followed by conscious refinement. This model suggests a rational augmentation of the subconscious by the conscious mind, rather than the subconscious dominating consciousness.

Fonda concludes that deterministic processes are the means to achieving free will, and that our feeling of spontaneous action is a result of subconscious learning and neural plasticity. He affirms the efficacy of conscious volition but denies causeless spontaneity, suggesting that our reasons for acting are not always as obvious as we believe. The article leaves the reader to consider whether this resolves the mind-body problem and the determinism versus free will debate.

Phactum Calendar and Events

The issue also includes a "Phact Calendar" listing upcoming events hosted by PhACT and related organizations, such as lectures, expeditions, and picnics. These events cover a range of topics related to science, skepticism, and history, with specific dates and locations provided. A separate section, "Philadelphia Area Lecture Host Websites," lists various institutions and organizations that host lectures and events of interest to skeptics, providing their websites for more information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the philosophical exploration of human value and purpose ('Mattering Theory') and the intricate relationship between free will and determinism. The magazine appears to adopt a secular humanist and progressive stance, encouraging critical thinking and rational inquiry into complex philosophical and scientific questions. The articles advocate for evidence-based reasoning and a naturalistic worldview, while also acknowledging the subjective experience of consciousness and volition.

Title: Phactum
Issue: April/May/June 2017
Publisher: The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum, the propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, serves as a guide to upcoming events and activities hosted by two prominent Philadelphia institutions: the Wagner Free Institute of Science and Laurel Hill Cemetery. The publication also includes information about PhACT membership and its mission.

Wagner Free Institute of Science Events

The Wagner Free Institute of Science presents a series of engaging lectures and events:

• Evenings with an Expert: Insects (Thursday, April 6, 2017, 5:30 PM): An intimate, scholar-led tour focusing on the institute's insect collection, led by entomologist Greg Cowper from the Academy of Natural Sciences. The event includes a wine and cheese reception and a temporary exhibit of insects collected from the Wagner yard. The tour is limited to 20 participants and costs $30 ($20 for members).
• Be a Scientist Day: Be A Marine Biologist! (Sunday, April 23, 2017, 12:00-4:00 PM): A free event for children ages 6-12, focusing on ocean life and deep-sea coral reef ecosystems, with participation from Temple biologist Dr. Erik Cordes. The museum and building will be open to visitors of all ages. Suggested donations are $10 for adults and $5 for children. ASL interpretation is available upon request.
• Moses Williams, Cutter of Profiles: An Illustrated Presentation (Wednesday, May 17, 2017, 6:00 PM): Dr. Gwendolyn DuBois Shaw from the University of Pennsylvania will present on Moses Williams, a former slave of the Peale family who worked in their museum and created silhouette portraits. This talk explores narratives of race, identity, and art in the age of Peale's museum and is co-sponsored by the American Philosophical Society Museum.

Additionally, the Wagner offers adult education courses:

• Trees of Philadelphia (6 Tuesdays, March 28 - May 2, 2017, 6:30 PM): Taught by Professor David Hewitt at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, this course covers urban forest ecology, tree identification, physiology, growth, and ecology. Preregistration is required.
• The Science Behind Global Warming (6 Wednesdays, March 29 - May 3, 2017, 6:15 PM): Led by Professor Kevin Cannon at the Independence Branch of the Free Library, this course examines the science of global warming, its evidence, and modeling techniques. No preregistration is necessary.

All Wagner lectures and courses are free and open to the public, with contributions gratefully accepted. They are taught at an introductory college level.

Laurel Hill Cemetery Events

Laurel Hill Cemetery, established in 1836, offers a variety of events throughout April, May, and June:

• Cryptic Crypts: Egyptian Symbolism at Laurel Hill (Sunday, April 2, 1 PM): Explores religions, philosophies, mythologies, and cultures related to the afterlife.
• Designing for the Dead: Art and Architecture of Laurel Hill (Saturday, April 8, 1 PM): A tour focusing on the notable architects who designed structures within the cemetery.
• The Hot Spots and Storied Plots (Various Dates: April 8, April 28, May 13, June 10, June 23, July 8): These popular tours explore the stories and wonders of Philadelphia's famous home of the dead.
• America Enters the Great War: Laurel Hill's WWI Veterans (Sunday, April 9, 1 PM): Commemorates America's entry into World War I and its impact.
• History Hunt, Family Hike and Journal Making (Saturday, April 22, 1 PM): An Earth Day program designed for families to explore the cemetery.
• Liberty or Death: The Revolutionary War Patriots of Laurel Hill (Sunday, April 23, 1 PM): Highlights the American Revolution's origins and its connection to the cemetery.
• Citywide Star Party (Friday, April 28, 7:30 PM): A Philadelphia Science Festival event offering a cosmic tour with local astronomers.
• Ghosts Among Our Graves (Friday, May 5, 7 PM): An event exploring paranormal aspects of the cemetery.
• Death Loves a Shining Mark: The Language of Mourning (Sunday, May 7, 1 PM): Examines Victorian mourning rituals.
• Buried, Not Taxidermied: Academy of Natural Sciences Members at Laurel Hill (Tuesday, May 9, 6:30 PM): Connects the Academy of Natural Sciences with Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• Shades of Animals at Laurel Hill (Saturday, May 13, 1 PM): Explores the influence of animals in culture and their connection to the cemetery.
• The Latecomer: An Anthology of Edgar Allan Poe (May 18-20, 7 PM): A program exploring Edgar Allan Poe's connection to Philadelphia and Laurel Hill.
• Yoga in the Cemetery (Saturday, May 20, 2 PM & Saturday, June 17, 2 PM): Offers a yoga session in the cemetery's peaceful setting.
• Duty, Honor, Country: Laurel Hill's West Point Graduates (Saturday, May 20, 1 PM): Focuses on West Point graduates interred at Laurel Hill.
• Volunteer Flag Placement: Preparing to Honor America's Heroes (Sunday, May 21, 10 AM): A volunteer event in preparation for Memorial Day.
• Memorial Day Parade, Service & Reception (Sunday, May 28, 12 PM): Reenacts the traditional Decoration Day service.
• Music for the Hearing Eye: The Divine Hand Ensemble (Saturday, June 3, 6 PM): A musical performance.
• Six Feet (Under) From Stardom (Sunday, June 4, 1 PM): A salute to supporting players and lesser-known characters.
• The Art of Laurel Hill Cemetery (Thursday, June 8, 6 PM): A walking tour exploring the art and aesthetics of the cemetery, co-sponsored by The Barnes Foundation.
• Heavenly Intonations: Laurel Hill's Musical Legacy (Sunday, June 11, 1 PM): Explores the musical history associated with those buried there.
• The Ghostly Circus: Fire and Aerial Theater (June 16-17, 7 PM): A partnership with 7textures for a circus-themed event.
• The Soulstice (a Young Friends Event) (Saturday, June 24, 7 PM): An event hosted by the cemetery's Young Friends group, The Antemortem Society.
• Engines of Creation: Architects, Inventors and Scientists (Sunday, June 25, 1 PM): Highlights individuals who made significant contributions in these fields.
• Hamlet (July 7-8, 8 PM & July 14-15, 8 PM): A theatrical presentation by REV Theatre.
• Gettysburg and Beyond: Laurel Hill's Ultimate Civil War Tour (Sunday, July 9, 10 AM): A tour focusing on the Civil War and the Battle of Gettysburg.
• Cyanotypes in the Cemetery (Saturday, July 22, 10 AM): An event exploring the cyanotype process.
• Cinema in the Cemetery (Friday, July 28, 9 PM): An outdoor film screening.
• Victorians After Dark (Thursday, August 3, 6 PM): A tour focusing on 19th-century gossip and scandals.
• From Deutschland to Deadland: Historic Germans of Laurel Hill (Sunday, August 6, 10 AM): Explores the role of German immigrants in Philadelphia's history.

PhACT Information and Editorial Stance

The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT) expresses gratitude to the Community College of Philadelphia for hosting their events and providing access to facilities. PhACT aims to support the college's mission by offering engaging and educational talks.

PhACT is distributed four times a year and is the main propaganda organ for the association. Membership is available for $15 annually ($10 for students), which includes email delivery of Phactum. Donations are also accepted.

The publication outlines a policy for article use, stating that materials originating in Phactum may be reprinted by groups recognized in CSI's international network of skeptics organizations, provided attribution is given to the author and PhACT. Other publications require permission from PhACT.

The issue concludes with a quote from William Penn: "Truth often suffers more by the heat of its defenders than the arguments of its opposers."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around public education, historical exploration, and the promotion of critical thinking. Both the Wagner Free Institute of Science and Laurel Hill Cemetery are presented as vital cultural and educational resources for the Philadelphia community, offering diverse programming that caters to a wide range of interests, from natural sciences and history to art and literature. The editorial stance of PhACT is clearly to support and disseminate information about these institutions and to encourage intellectual engagement and critical inquiry among its readership.