Phactum - 2017 10 - October

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: October/November/December 2017
Publisher: The Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Editor: Ray Haupt

This issue of Phactum, a newsletter focused on critical thinking, presents a diverse range of articles spanning archaeology, history, health, and science. The cover story delves into the intriguing "Curious Bind Runes of GR 1" found in Greenland, while other sections address historical medical practices, scientific advancements, and the identification of medical quackery.

The Curious Bind Runes of GR 1

Don Nigroni's article explores the runestone GR 1, discovered on Kingittorsuaq Island off the coast of Greenland. The stone, shown to W. A. Graah in 1824, was found near three piles of stones that formed an equilateral triangle. Erik Wahlgren, in "The Vikings and America," suggested the runestone and piles might date to 1333. The inscription translates to: "Erlingur, son of Sigvath, and Baarne, son of Tortar, and Enrithi, son of As, on the Saturday before Rogation Day raised these piles of stones and sailed away." Following this text are six unusual characters, described as "bind runes" where two or more runic letters are combined. Nigroni transliterates the first, second, and sixth as "mty" and the other three as "mey," resulting in the sequence "mty mty mey mey mty mty." The article notes that these bind runes are cryptic or magical, potentially altered to conceal their normal shape, and their meaning remains undeciphered.

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

This section introduces a pamphlet compiled by Paul Schlueter III, which lists egregious flaws in thinking and devious tactics of argument. The pamphlet is available for free at PhACT meetings, and attendees are invited to contribute to its expansion. A new entry, "DAISY HOPPING," is defined as a tactic of argument where one leaps from point to point rapidly, preventing opponents from addressing preceding points, characterized as a "promiscuous pursuit of 'talking points.'"

Upcoming PhACT Events

The magazine lists several upcoming lectures and events hosted by PhACT, generally held at the Community College of Philadelphia. These include:

• Saturday, October 21, 2017: A lecture by Professor Alan Mann (anthropologist) on "The Anthropology of Food."
• Saturday, November 18, 2017: A lecture by Robert Hicks, Ph.D. (curator of the Mutter Museum) on "Vaccination Pure and Spurious: The Confederate Vaccination Crisis of the Civil War."
• Saturday, January 20, 2018: A lecture by Paul Halpern, Ph.D. (physicist and cosmologist) discussing his book "The Quantum Labyrinth: How Richard Feynman and John Wheeler Revolutionized Time and Reality."
• Saturday, May 19, 2018: A PhACT Expedition to Laurel Hill Cemetery in Philadelphia.

Several other lecture dates are listed with the topic to be determined.

Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment in Early Nineteenth Century Philadelphia

This article, by Clarissa F. Dillon, Ph.D., is mentioned as being on page 13 and discusses historical cancer treatments. The outcome for sufferers was noted as not optimistic.

A Brief History of LLS

Jennifer Parrado presents a brief history of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), highlighting successful advances in treating blood cancers, with some of these advancements occurring in Philadelphia between the end of World War 2 and the present.

Various Ruminations on Woo Woo and Real Science and some Gossip

Collected by Ray Haupt, this section touches on various topics. It references the article on 19th-century cancer treatments and the LLS history. It also mentions turning to Dr. Stephen Barrett, a "quack watcher," and his publication "Consumer Health Digest" for information on combating medical fraudsters.

Health and Quackery Reports

Several reports detail instances of alleged medical fraud and quackery:

• Integrative Medicine Doctor Facing Charges in Texas: Ted Leroy Edwards, Jr., M.D., was charged by the Texas Medical Board for failing to meet the standard of care and non-therapeutically prescribing treatments for pancreatic cancer, including various oral supplements and therapies.
• Infant Poisoned by "Homeopathic" Bracelet: A report from the CDC details an infant in Connecticut found with anemia and a high blood lead level, traced to a handmade "homeopathic magnetic hematite healing bracelet."
• Defiant Black Salve Marketer Receives Six-Year Prison Sentence: Samuel A. Girod was sentenced to six years in prison for impeding federal officers, obstruction of proceedings, witness tampering, and violations of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act related to products marketed with unapproved health claims, including "TOMOR-GONE" black salve.
• Australian Cancer Fraudster Fined: Annabelle Natalie Gibson was ordered to pay AUS$410,000 for unconscionable conduct related to her book and app "The Whole Pantry," after falsely claiming to have cured herself of brain cancer through natural methods.
• Quack Muscle Test Debunked: A report on the bi-digital O-ring test (BDORT), a variant of applied kinesiology, is discussed, noting its claims to provide information about internal organs by testing finger strength.

Laurel Hill Cemetery

An article by Carol Yaster and Rachel Wolgemuth, "Laurel Hill Cemetery (Images of America)," is featured. Established in 1836 in Philadelphia, it was one of America's earliest rural cemeteries, known for its picturesque views, outstanding horticulture, and monuments by notable artists. It served as the burial place for Philadelphia's elite and became a model for New York's Central Park. The article notes its decline in the 20th century but its revitalization through a friends group and designation as a National Historic Landmark.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phactum positions itself as an open forum for discussing science, technology, anti-science, history, economics, mythology, and science-based medicine, while actively opposing quackery and medical fraud. The magazine encourages diverse viewpoints but avoids harsh commentary on religion unless it contradicts science. It also states a policy against engaging in partisan politics and reporting on celebrity news like the Kardashians. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking, evidence-based practices, and the debunking of pseudoscience and misinformation, particularly in the realm of health and medicine.

Phactum, October/November/December 2017 issue. This magazine delves into various topics ranging from questionable medical practices and societal phenomena to historical medical practices and advancements in cancer research.

Articles

BDORT and Muscle Testing

The article critiques BDORT (Bi-digital O-ring test) and Quantum Reflex Analysis, methods that claim to assess organ health and treat problems through muscle-testing. Developed in the early 1980s by Dr. Yoshiaki Omura, these techniques are dismissed as preposterous, despite their use by thousands of practitioners.

Vampire Scare in Malawi

The United Nations reported withdrawing personnel from southern Malawi due to a vampire scare that incited mob violence. Belief in witchcraft is prevalent in rural Malawi, and rumors of vampires, originating from Mozambique, led to lynch mobs and roadblocks. Malawian President Peter Mutharika expressed distress, and the US embassy temporarily withdrew Peace Corps volunteers from affected districts.

Post-Truth and Science

The concept of 'post-truth,' defined as objective facts being less influential than appeals to emotion and personal belief, is discussed. Chosen as the Oxford English Dictionary's word of the year for 2016, it is linked to the US Presidential election and the Brexit referendum. The article speculates on its potential application to areas like anti-vaccination movements and a rejection of established science, suggesting a preference for 'post-science' where personal desires override known facts, even humorously linking it to a fondness for dragons and unicorns.

Kenneth Silber Discusses Science and Politics in a Post-Truth Era

A report by Jordan Chapman details a presentation by science and politics journalist Kenneth Silber. Silber discussed modern skepticism in science and its connection to politics. He highlighted how the March for Science revealed individual political ideologies and explored indicators of skepticism beyond climate change, such as education levels and age, and the role of social media. He noted that political beliefs could influence belief in phenomena like ghosts. The report also briefly mentions Paul Offit's previous points and suggests Silber could have addressed issues like vaccination.

In DeWitt's Footsteps: Seeing History on the Erie Canal

This section reviews a book by Kenneth Silber that explores the history of the Erie Canal through the lens of DeWitt Clinton's descendants. The book intertwines national and family history with a photographic journey along the canal.

Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment in Early Nineteenth-Century Philadelphia

This multi-part article examines the historical understanding and treatment of cancer. It notes that in the past, sores and lumps were often called cancers, making it difficult to distinguish between malignant and benign conditions. Definitions from an 18th-century dictionary are provided. Recommended treatments varied, including cold baths, salves, mercury pills, and carrot poultices. Surgery was also an option but considered risky. The article extensively uses diary entries from Elizabeth Drinker to detail the case of Susannah Swett, who suffered from a facial lump suspected to be cancer. The diary entries document various consultations with physicians like Dr. Kuhn, Dr. Physick, and Dr. Dorsey, and the treatments attempted, including plasters, poultices, and eventually surgery. The case history highlights the limited medical knowledge of the time and the patient's prolonged suffering.

A sidebar defines 'Poultice or cataplasm' as a paste made from mashed herbs or other substances applied to the skin. Another section includes a definition of 'CANCER' from Noah Webster's Dictionary of 1828, referencing the crab, the zodiac sign, and a medical definition of a hard, painful tumor.

A cartoon by T. McCracken humorously depicts a character suggesting that "slow moving broccoli flakes cure cancer," satirizing the proliferation of unproven medical claims.

A Brief History of LLS, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Prepared by Jennifer Parrado, this section chronicles the history of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). It details the organization's dedication to funding research and providing treatments for blood cancer patients. Key milestones include:

• 1946: William Dameshek, MD, contributes to the development of the first anti-cancer chemotherapy.
• 1949: The Leukemia Society is founded by the de Villiers family.
• 1950: The Jimmy Fund is established by Sidney Farber, MD, to fight childhood leukemia.
• 1956: E. Donnall Thomas, MD, conducts the first successful bone marrow transplant on a leukemia patient.
• 1960: Combination chemotherapies are developed for childhood leukemia patients.
• 1970: Discovery of oncogenes leads to understanding cancer cells at a genetic level.
• 1980: Research into molecular pathways involved in immune B-cell activation and B-cell cancers.
• 1985: Hagop Kantarjian, MD, receives awards for studying treatments for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
• 1990: First FDA approvals for targeted blood cancer drugs.
• 1996: Brian Druker, MD, tests a BCR-ABL-blocking drug, leading to the development of imatinib (Gleevec®).
• 2001: Advances in understanding cancer lead to new discoveries, including improved effectiveness of chemotherapy regimens.
• 2004: Lenalidomide (Revlimid®) is confirmed effective for a rare form of myelodysplastic syndromes.
• 2009: Preliminary evidence of clinical activity of idelalisib in B-cell malignancies is presented.
• 2010: Progress in targeted immunotherapies, including breakthroughs in ibrutinib for CLL and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR-T) therapy for ALL patients.

The section highlights the significant role of LLS-funded researchers and institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in advancing cancer treatment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical approach towards unproven medical claims and pseudoscientific practices, as seen in the critique of BDORT and the discussion of 'post-truth' and 'post-science.' There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based medicine and scientific progress, particularly evident in the historical review of cancer treatments and the detailed account of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's achievements. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific rigor and critical thinking over anecdotal evidence or unsubstantiated beliefs.

Title: Phactum
Issue: October/November/December 2017
Publisher: PhACT

This issue of Phactum explores the intricate relationship between ethics, morality, and law, alongside significant advancements in science and a re-examination of evolutionary concepts.

How Well Can Ethics/Morality Be Codified?

The lead article, "How Well Can Ethics/Morality Be Codified?" by Paul Schlueter III, delves into the challenges of translating ethical principles into a comprehensive legal code. Schlueter contrasts law, which is place-defined and influenced by political interests, with ethics, which is more universal and philosophical. He discusses how laws are codified to manage societal interactions and resource competition, but acknowledges that an exhaustive codification is impractical due to the complexity of human behavior and the need for interpretation. The article highlights exceptions to laws, such as those for emergencies in amateur radio use, and the legal concept of 'castle doctrine' in Pennsylvania. It questions the ability of laws to perfectly capture moral justifications and suggests that while law is fully codified, ethics requires critical thinking and the choice of the best answer, rather than blind obedience. The author posits that English may become the global language for ethics, facilitating international discourse and potentially leading to more consistent ethical agreements.

Advancements in Cancer Treatment

The issue features updates on significant progress in cancer immunotherapy. It highlights the role of Stephan Grupp, MD, in advancing immunotherapy for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is recognized for applauding the FDA's approval of several groundbreaking treatments. These include Vyxeos™ for high-risk AML patients, Kymriah (an immunotherapy that reprograms the immune system), and Mylotarg®, another AML treatment. The LLS-led Beat AML collaboration is also mentioned for launching a Master Trial to test investigational drugs. A personal story recounts how Emily Whitehead, treated with CAR-T therapy in 2012, is now in remission.

Donations to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Information is provided for donations to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter, detailing their distribution of $50 million for patient aid and $70 million for research in 2016, with $10.1 million invested in the Greater Philadelphia area.

Evolution's Next Homo

Another article, "Evolution's Next Homo" by Paul Schlueter III, examines the concept of evolution and its misinterpretations, particularly in relation to "The Island of Lost Souls" and the Frankenstein myth. The author argues that evolution does not proceed in a specific direction and that humans are not an ultimate target. He discusses the extinction of various hominid species and the current human tendency towards self-destruction, leading to the term "Homo homicidicus." The article critiques the fear of GMOs and genetic manipulation, attributing it to the anti-science portrayal in horror movies. It suggests that science and technology are evolving faster than biological systems, and explores the potential for genetic editing. The author expresses a pessimistic view of humanity's future, suggesting that survival might depend on becoming more conformist or segregating into competitive groups, and questions whether "us" or "them" will prevail in an evolutionary contest.

The Island of Dr. Moreau

A review of H.G. Wells's "The Island of Dr. Moreau" is presented, highlighting its early critique of evolution and the potential misuse of science, particularly in the context of genetic engineering. The novel's themes are seen as prescient regarding modern ethical issues in creating enhanced humans or reviving extinct species.

Edward O. Wilson Quote

A quote from Edward O. Wilson's "The social conquest of Earth" is featured, emphasizing that emigration from Earth is unlikely and that focusing on exploring space with robots is more practical. It suggests that Earth can be transformed into a paradise, implying a responsibility for human stewardship.

PhACT Calendar and Events

The issue includes a "PhACT Calendar" listing upcoming lectures and events for skeptics in the Philadelphia area, organized by PhACT and other organizations like PACHS. These events cover a range of topics including anthropology, history of science, physics, and cosmology, featuring speakers from various academic and research institutions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical and rationalist viewpoint, encouraging critical thinking about science, ethics, law, and societal issues. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based reasoning and a questioning of dogma, whether religious or scientific. The editorial stance appears to favor secular humanism and a pragmatic approach to complex problems, advocating for open discourse and the pursuit of knowledge while acknowledging the potential pitfalls of scientific advancement and societal structures.

Title: Phactum
Issue: October/November/December 2017
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum, the propaganda organ for the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, focuses on providing a comprehensive listing of lectures, events, and host websites primarily within the Philadelphia area for the period of October 2017 through early 2018. The publication emphasizes scientific, historical, and cultural topics, encouraging public participation in educational activities.

Featured Organizations and Events

Rittenhouse Astronomical Society

The Rittenhouse Astronomical Society holds monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Fels Planetarium at the Franklin Institute. These meetings are free and open to the public, aiming to spread knowledge and enjoyment of astronomy. No experience is necessary to attend.

The Delaware Valley Amateur Astronomers (DVAA)

The DVAA is a group of hobbyists in the Philadelphia area. Their free monthly meetings are held on the third Friday of each month at the Freedom Hall in the Upper Merion Township Building, King of Prussia, PA. Meetings begin with informal socializing at 7:00 p.m., followed by a short talk on current astronomical topics and a presentation by a professional astronomer or a member of a neighboring club. Refreshments are provided.

The Searchlight Series

Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site hosts 'The Searchlight Series,' a discussion series about crime, justice, and the American prison system. These events take place on the first Tuesday of every month, are free and open to the public, and require no reservations. More information is available on their website.

Wagner Free Institute of Science

The Wagner Free Institute of Science is featured prominently with a schedule of lectures and events from October 2017 through November 2017:

• October 12, 2017: Lantern Slide Salon (Free, registration encouraged).
• October 25, 2017: 'Empire of the Living Dead: The Scientific History of Peruvian Mummies' lecture by Christopher Heaney (Free, registration encouraged).
• November 2, 2017: 'Evening with an Expert: Fossils' tour led by Dr. Jason Downs (Tickets required: $30/$20 for members).
• November 11, 2017: 2017 Westbrook Lecture: 'Dire Predictions: Understanding Climate Change' by Dr. Michael E. Mann. The museum is open from 1 pm, with the talk at 3 pm. A member reception follows.
• November 29, 2017: 'The Good, the Bad, and the Chemistry: Decoding Chemical Sensationalism' lecture by Dr. Michelle Francl.

The Wagner also offers Adult Education Fall 2017 Courses:

• 'The Cosmos: A History of Modern Astronomy' with Professor Darin Hayton (6 Wednesdays, Sept 27 - Nov 1, 2017).
• 'A Selective History of 19th Century American Entomology' with Professor Greg Cowper (6 Wednesdays, Oct 4 - Nov 8, 2017).
• 'The Science Behind Global Warming' with Professor Kevin Cannon (6 Mondays, Oct 16 - Nov 27, 2017).

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

Laurel Hill Cemetery Events

Laurel Hill Cemetery, established in 1836, offers a variety of events throughout the year, including historical tours and seasonal celebrations. Notable events listed for this period include:

• October 14, 2017: 'The Hot Spots and Storied Plots' tour.
• October 15, 2017: 'The Worlds of Thomas Jefferson at Laurel Hill' walking tour led by William David Barker.
• October 20-21, 2017: 'Soul Crawl: Haunted Halloween History Tours'.
• October 26-28, 2017: 'Dracula: A Gothic Mystery' theatrical performance.
• October 27, 2017: 'The Hot Spots and Storied Plots' tour.
• October 29, 2017: 'Fall Family Day: Halloween Picnic and Parade'.
• November 5, 2017: Members-Only tour: 'Inside the Mausoleums and Vaults of Laurel Hill'.
• November 10, 2017: Marine Corps Anniversary Service.
• November 11, 2017: 'The Hot Spots and Storied Plots' tour and 'Patriots, Politicians and Playwrights: Philadelphia Lawyers' tour.
• November 12, 2017: 'By Arms and Courage: Laurel Hill's Military Legacy' tour.
• November 18, 2017: 'Legendary Civil War Ladies' program with living historian Kerry Bryan.
• November 19, 2017: 'Buried in the Land of Strangers: Confederates of Laurel Hill' tour.
• November 24, 2017: 'The Hot Spots and Storied Plots' tour.
• December 2, 2017: 'Victorian Hair Wreath Workshop'.
• December 9, 2017: 'The Hot Spots and Storied Plots' tour.
• December 10, 2017: 'Having the Last Word: Epitaphs of Laurel Hill' walking tour.
• December 22, 2017: 'The Hot Spots and Storied Plots' tour.
• December 31, 2017: General Meade's Birthday Celebration, including a parade, 21-gun salute, and reception.

Laurel Hill Cemetery is open seven days a week with free admission for self-guided visits.

Philadelphia Area Lecture Host Websites

The magazine provides a comprehensive list of organizations and their websites that host lectures and events in the Philadelphia area. This list includes:

• Academy of Natural Sciences
• American Philosophical Society
• American Revolution Roundtable of Philadelphia (ARRTOP)
• Chemical Heritage Foundation
• College of Physicians of Philadelphia
• Delaware County Institute of Science
• Delaware Valley Opera Company
• Delaware Valley Amateur Astronomers
• Eastern State Penitentiary
• Franklin Institute
• Free Library of Philadelphia (FLOP)
• Freethought Society
• Friends of Valley Forge
• Humanist Association of Greater Philadelphia (HAGP)
• Institute for Science and Religion
• Laurel Hill Cemetery
• Nerd Nite
• Penn Science Cafe & Lightbulb Cafe
• Pint of Science
• Rittenhouse Astronomical Society
• Science on the Hill
• Science on Tap
• University of Pennsylvania Museum
• Wagner Free Institute of Science
• Laboratory for Research on the Structure of Matter - Science Cafe

PhACT encourages readers to email the editor at [email protected] if any listed sites are erroneous or if a desired site is missing.

PhACT Membership and Policy

PhACT offers annual memberships for $15 ($10 for students), which include email delivery of Phactum. Donations are also accepted for additional support and for High School Science Fair prizes. The publication details its 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 proper credit is given. Other publications must obtain permission from PhACT. Permission for articles from other sources must be granted by the original publisher. The PhACT website is www.phact.org.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phactum strongly promotes critical thinking and skepticism by highlighting scientific and historical events, lectures, and organizations. The editorial stance is evident in the selection of content, which focuses on evidence-based discussions, historical exploration, and the debunking of sensationalism (as seen in the lecture on chemical sensationalism). The magazine serves as a platform for intellectual engagement within the Philadelphia community, encouraging participation in educational and thought-provoking events. The inclusion of a quote from William Penn underscores a commitment to reasoned discourse and the pursuit of truth, suggesting an editorial philosophy that values open inquiry and rational debate over emotional fervor.