Phactum - 2018 07 - July

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: July/August/September 2018
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Editor: Ray Haupt
Webmaster: Wes Powers

This issue of Phactum, a newsletter and propaganda organ for critical thinking, spans the months of July, August, and September 2018. It features a quote from Harry S. Truman on its cover, alongside an image of Alfred Joyce Kilmer and a mention of his famous poem "Trees."

Alfred Joyce Kilmer and the "Trees" Poem

The lead article delves into the life of Alfred Joyce Kilmer, exploring his connection to the Joyce Kilmer Service Area on the New Jersey Turnpike. It questions why a highway rest area bears his name, noting a plaque with his birth and death dates and a fragment of his poem "Trees." The article details Kilmer's family background, his education at Rutgers and Columbia Universities, and his marriage to Aline Murray. It recounts his early career as a teacher and writer for various publications, including The Literary Digest, The New York Times, and The Nation. Kilmer's work at Funk and Wagnalls, defining words for The Standard Dictionary for a meager sum, is also mentioned.

The narrative then shifts to Kilmer's military service. He enlisted in the Seventh Regiment of the New York National Guard in April 1917 after the U.S. declared war on Germany. He was later assigned to the U.S. 69th Infantry Regiment of the "Rainbow" Division, rising to the rank of sergeant. The article highlights the historical significance of the 69th Regiment, known as the "Irish Regiment" and the "Fighting Sixty Ninth," and its distinguished record in the Civil War. Kilmer's regiment arrived in France in November 1917. During the Second Battle of the Marne, Kilmer was killed by a sniper on July 30, 1918, while on a scouting mission. He was posthumously awarded the Croix de Guerre by the French Republic.

Page 4 features the full text of Alfred Joyce Kilmer's poem "Trees," noting that it was set to music in 1922 by Oscar Rasbach and has been performed by numerous artists. A YouTube link to a version by Mario Lanza is provided.

Upcoming PhACT Events and Lectures

Several upcoming PhACT events are announced. Meetings are generally held on the third Saturday of most months at the Community College of Philadelphia, costing $4.00 for parking. The meetings are free and open to the public.

• Saturday, September 15, 2018, 2:00 PM: PhACT Lecture Series kicks off with Rob Palmer, a Skeptical Inquirer columnist, presenting "An Introduction to the Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia (GSoW) Project." Palmer, who has made over 6,100 edits to Wikipedia, will discuss the importance of Wikipedia and the GSoW project in combating conspiracy theories and pseudoscience. GSoW has been publicly denounced by figures like Gary Null and Deepak Chopra.
• Saturday, October 20, 2018: A PhACT Lecture with the topic to be determined.
• Saturday, November 17, 2018: Linda Zimmerman will present on her book, "Bad Science: A Brief History of Bizarre Misconceptions, Totally Wrong Conclusions, and Incredibly Stupid Theories." Zimmerman, a former research chemist and author of over 30 books, will discuss her humorous look at flawed scientific ideas.

The Science History Institute is also mentioned as offering a free monthly Wiki salon.

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

This section introduces a new entry: "PROMISCUOUS QUESTIONING." This strategy involves overwhelming an audience with rhetorical questions to imply desired viewpoints without providing evidence. The listing of egregious flaws in thinking is compiled by Paul Schlueter III and is available as a pamphlet at PhACT meetings.

Letters to the Editor

The "Letters to the Editor" section includes a contribution from Don Nigroni of Glenolden, PA, discussing the folklore of fern seeds and their supposed ability to grant invisibility. He explains the scientific understanding of fern reproduction through spores and gametophytes, contrasting it with older beliefs. Nigroni also shares photographs of ferns found in the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Iceland.

Errors and Corrections

The editor apologizes for several errors in the previous April/May/June 2018 edition, including misidentifying the September speaker as "Rob Porter" instead of Rob Palmer, and incorrectly naming Buddy Ebsen as "Buddy Epson" and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk as "Mustafa Kemal Atatür." The identification of GSoW as "Guerrilla Skeptics" instead of "Guerrilla Skepticism" is also corrected.

Various Ruminations of Woo Woo and Real Science and some Gossip

This section, collected by Ray Haupt, includes a tribute to radio personality Art Bell, who passed away on April 13, 2018, at age 72. Bell, known for his paranormal radio show, died from legally prescribed medications, with contributing factors including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and hypertension.

It also features "Bad Advice" segments, including humorous suggestions like "Buy Lunar Real Estate!" and a quote from Benjamin Franklin about "ill customs and bad advice." Dr. Paul Offit, a medical scientist and past PhACT speaker, is mentioned as having written a new book titled "Bad Advice," which critiques celebrities, politicians, and activists as sources of health information. Offit is scheduled to speak at the College of Physicians on September 27.

Lectures at Eastern State Penitentiary

The section notes ongoing free lectures at Eastern State Penitentiary covering various aspects of the American prison system. A lecture by journalist Alisa Roth on the history of incarceration and the issues of criminalization of mental illness is highlighted as particularly outstanding.

Flat Earth Conference in Britain

PhACT member Tom Napier shared an item about Britain's first Flat Earth Conference, expressing skepticism about any useful scientific knowledge being imparted.

Gambling Addiction Notes

This section discusses the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on May 14, 2018, which declared the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act unconstitutional, thereby enabling legal sports betting operations across the states. Delaware is noted as the first state to enable sports betting after the ruling.

Book Reviews/Features

• Bad Advice: Or Why Celebrities, Politicians, and Activists Aren't Your Best Source of Health Information by Paul A. Offit, M.D.: This book is described as a guide to battling misinformation and defending sound science, critiquing the influence of non-scientists on public health discourse.
• Insane: America's Criminal Treatment of Mental Illness by Alisa Roth: This book is an exposé of the mental health crisis within the U.S. criminal justice system, arguing that mental illness has been criminalized and that jails have become warehouses for the mentally ill.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum include a focus on critical thinking, the debunking of pseudoscience and misinformation, and the examination of historical figures and events through a skeptical lens. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific accuracy and rational discourse, as evidenced by the "Roster of I.R.E." and the critique of non-expert health advice. The publication encourages reader participation and aims to foster a community of critical thinkers.

Phactum, July/August/September 2018 issue, is a magazine that covers a diverse range of topics, including the legalization of sports betting, the psychology of conspiracy theories, health-related issues, and historical and cultural explorations.

Sports Betting Legalization

The issue extensively covers the US Supreme Court's decision to legalize sports betting. Articles discuss the implications for states, the gaming industry, and sports leagues. Gene Graney, a tourist, expresses optimism about the economic benefits for Atlantic City. The American Gaming Association emphasizes the importance of game integrity. The decision is seen as a significant win for companies like DraftKings and FanDuel, and potentially for media companies with sports broadcasting rights. New Jersey is highlighted as being well-prepared for the shift. However, Les Bernal of Stop Predatory Gambling warns that legal betting could fundamentally alter how fans watch sports and potentially increase gambling addiction among young people. The potential for gambling scandals is also explored, with Marc Edelman noting that while legalization might move gambling away from black markets, a larger marketplace could increase the likelihood of scandals. Metta World Peace (formerly Ron Artest) shares an anecdote about being offered money to fix a college game, highlighting the potential risks for athletes. The financial impact is also noted, with Americans losing billions annually on gambling, and projections of significant increases if sports betting becomes commonplace nationwide. The issue also touches on the concerns of recovering gambling addicts in Arizona regarding the potential for new problem gamblers.

Health and Alternative Medicine

Several articles address health-related topics. Public Health England has renewed its support for water fluoridation, with a report concluding it is a safe and effective measure to reduce dental decay, benefiting children from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Conversely, a case report links Salmonella infection to the consumption of rattlesnake pills, which are marketed as remedies but are not approved by the FDA. The issue also features a report on Dr. Stephen Barrett's newsletter, Consumer Health Digest, and the Center for Inquiry's call for stronger FDA action against homeopathic products, citing billions wasted annually on such remedies. Professor Edzard Ernst's work is highlighted, particularly his book "SCAM: So-Called Alternative Medicine," which offers a critical perspective on alternative medicine claims. His blog post on "Critical Thinking" is also referenced, defining it as a process of making decisions based on evidence. Another book by Ernst and Kevin Smith, "More Harm than Good?: The Moral Maze of Complementary and Alternative Medicine," is reviewed, analyzing ethical and legal violations in the CAM industry.

Conspiracy Theories and Critical Thinking

Rob Brotherton's presentation on "Hip Hop and the Illuminati" is detailed, tracing the history of the Illuminati and its incorporation into hip-hop music, suggesting that Black Americans' distrust of government contributes to this trend. Brotherton's book, "Suspicious Minds: Why We Believe Conspiracy Theories," is also featured, exploring the psychology behind conspiracy theories and why they resonate with people. The article posits that conspiracy theories are not a fringe phenomenon but a predictable product of how brains work. A quote from Richard Feynman suggests that reports of flying saucers are more likely due to the known irrational characteristics of terrestrial intelligence than unknown extraterrestrial efforts.

Historical and Cultural Exploration

The magazine includes a report on a PhACT expedition to Laurel Hill Cemetery, detailing the historical significance of the site and notable figures buried there, including Major General George Gordon Meade and spiritualists. The expedition, guided by Professor Michael Brooks, focused on historical exploration rather than supernatural encounters. The article also mentions the cemetery's founding in 1836 and its elaborate sculptures and the remains of over 100,000 Philadelphians.

Other Topics

An article discusses an accusation filed against Dr. William Edwin Gray III for unprofessional conduct related to his marketing of "eRemedies," which are sound files claimed to provide rapid relief for various ailments. The medical board's accusation includes allegations of failing to register offerings with the FDA and marketing remedies not eligible for over-the-counter status. The "End Times Watch" section humorously notes that the predicted end of the world on April 23 did not occur and has been rescheduled for September 23.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and a skeptical approach to unsubstantiated claims, particularly in the realm of alternative medicine and conspiracy theories. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based reasoning and a questioning of pseudoscientific or sensationalist narratives. The editorial stance appears to favor rational inquiry and a cautious examination of phenomena, whether it be the societal impact of legalized gambling or the psychological drivers behind belief in conspiracy theories. The inclusion of historical and cultural pieces suggests an interest in understanding societal trends and their roots.

This issue of Phactum magazine, dated July/August/September 2018, presents a diverse collection of articles spanning history, philosophy, urban studies, and anthropology.

Book Reviews

Laurel Hill Cemetery (Images of America)

This section reviews a book by Carol Yaster and Rachel Wolgemuth, published by Arcadia Publishing. Established in 1836 in Philadelphia, Laurel Hill Cemetery was a significant rural cemetery known for its scenic beauty, horticulture, and monuments by notable artists. It was a preferred burial site for Philadelphia's elite and, despite a 20th-century decline, has been revitalized since its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1998. The authors are identified as Carol Yaster, president of the Friends of Laurel Hill Cemetery, and Rachel Wolgemuth, an author and historian.

Subway City: Riding the Trains, Reading New York

This review covers a book by Professor Michael Brooks, published by Rutgers University Press. The book examines New York's subway system as both a literal mode of transport and a metaphor for the city. It details the subway's development, its role as a symbol of urban hopes and fears, and its portrayal in popular culture, including the impact of the Bernhard Goetz shooting. The review also notes the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's efforts in station improvements and arts programs.

John Ruskin and Victorian Architecture

Another book by Professor Michael Brooks is reviewed. Published by Rutgers University Press, this scholarly work analyzes the influence of John Ruskin on Victorian architecture, particularly the concept of "Ruskinism." It compares Brooks's work to other studies on Ruskin's views and highlights its focus on the evolution of his thought.

American Indian Studies: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Contemporary Issues

This collection of essays, edited by Dane A. Morrison and published by Peter Lang Inc., is presented as a scholarly yet accessible text for students and the public. The contributors explore various aspects of the Native American experience through disciplines such as economics, education, film studies, history, linguistics, literature, museum studies, popular culture, and religion. The review mentions topics like the impact of boarding schools and the strategic planning of Indian casinos.

John Locke – His Philosophy of Human Nature

This essay by Albert Fried-Cassorla explores John Locke's philosophy of human nature. It begins by defining human nature as the distinguishing natural characteristics of humans. The author posits that Locke believed humans were originally peaceful and that knowledge is acquired through sensory experiences, not innate ideas. Locke's concept of the "state of nature" is discussed, where individuals live according to reason without a common superior. The essay references Bertrand Russell and St. Thomas Aquinas in its discussion of Locke's ideas.

Can You Know GOD Without Religion?

Paul Schlueter III discusses the concept of "natural law" as understood in Catholic doctrine, which suggests that knowledge of God can be obtained through observing nature and conscience, even without formal religion. The author explores the idea that a moral and sociable life can be led without belief in deities, referencing Ockham's Razor. The essay also touches upon personal spirituality, the nature of prophetic revelation, and the historical use of Latin in religious texts. It notes the shift towards vernacular translations of the Bible and the potential for religious change over time.

Anthropology Update

Paul Schlueter III provides an update on recent anthropological findings. A key focus is new evidence suggesting that Homo sapiens migrated out of Africa earlier than previously thought, with a fossil finger bone found in Saudi Arabia dating to around 86,000 years ago. This evidence, along with stone tools found at the same site, suggests a more continuous diaspora. The article also discusses genetic studies indicating interbreeding between humans and Neanderthals as early as 110,000 years ago, though the contribution of Neanderthals to the modern human genome is considered minimal. The author emphasizes that all post-African humans today share a common ancestry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the origins and evolution of human thought, culture, and society, from historical figures like John Locke and John Ruskin to anthropological discoveries about human migration and the development of religion. There is a clear interest in examining foundational concepts in philosophy and history, as well as current scientific research. The magazine appears to adopt a critical and analytical stance, encouraging readers to question established narratives and consider diverse perspectives, particularly in the realms of religion and human origins. The editorial stance seems to favor empirical evidence and rational inquiry, while acknowledging the complexities of human belief systems and cultural development.

This document is the "PhACT Calendar" for July/August/September 2018, published by Phactum. It details upcoming events, primarily lectures and tours, with a focus on science, history, and culture, predominantly in the Philadelphia area. The calendar highlights events hosted by PhACT (Philadelphia Area Center for the History of Science), Laurel Hill Cemetery, The Franklin Institute, and other local institutions.

Upcoming PhACT Events

PhACT meetings are hosted by Dr. David Cattell, Chairman of the Physics Department at the Community College of Philadelphia. These meetings occur on the third Saturday of most months at 2:00 PM. Parking is available in a free garage on 17th Street. The meetings are free and open to the public, but attendees must sign in for security reasons and show ID.

The PhACT 2018/2019 Lecture Season begins on Saturday, September 15, 2018, with Rob Palmer discussing "An Introduction to the Guerrilla Skepticism on Wikipedia (GSoW) Project." On Saturday, November 17, 2018, Linda Zimmerman will present on her book, "Bad Science: A Brief History of Bizarre Misconceptions, Totally Wrong Conclusions, and Incredibly Stupid Theories."

Other PhACT lectures are scheduled for October 20, 2018, January 19, 2019, and February 16, 2019, with topics to be determined.

Events at Laurel Hill Cemetery

Laurel Hill Cemetery hosts a variety of events throughout the period covered:

• The Hot Spots and Storied Plots: A monthly tour offering an overview of the cemetery's history, art, and stories. This tour is offered on August 24, August 31, September 8, and September 28, 2018.
• An Afternoon Out with Our Dearly Departed: Victorian Picnic: A guided walking tour and group picnic on August 25, 2018.
• Yoga in the Cemetery: Held on the first Saturday of each month (May-September) at 10:00 AM.
• Famous Fights and Feuds: A tour focusing on historical disputes and scandals among former residents, on August 30, 2018.
• Gone But Not Forgotten: Market of the Macabre: An outdoor market of antiques and oddities on September 8, 2018.
• Sinners, Scandals, and Suicides: A tour exploring the darker side of Laurel Hill's residents on September 9, 2018.
• Death is a Cabaret, Ol' Chum: A Graveyard Cabaret: Presented by REV Theatre Company on September 14-15 and 21-22, 2018.
• Blue Signs of History: PA Historical Marker Connections: A tour on September 16, 2018.
• Cinema in the Cemetery: A screening of "Nosferatu" on September 28, 2018.
• Oddly Departed: Mischief Night Mysteries: A tour on October 30, 2018.
• Pints and Plots: Laurel Hill's Buried Brewers: A tour focusing on the history of beer in Philadelphia on September 30, 2018.
• Soul Crawl: Haunted Halloween History Tours: Flashlight tours on October 19-20, 2018.
• Fall Family Day: Halloween Picnic and Parade: On October 28, 2018.

Events at The Franklin Institute

• Science After Hours: An event featuring scientific demonstrations on August 28 and September 25, 2018. The September event is themed "Wizard School" and is for ages 21+.
• Night Skies at the Joel M. Bloom Observatory: Monthly stargazing events on the second Thursday of each month.

Events at the College of Physicians of Philadelphia

• The Searchlight Series: Conversations about crime, justice, and the American prison system, held on the first Tuesday of each month.
• Philadelphia Public Health Grand Rounds: Discussing alcohol, violence, and public health on September 26, 2018.
• Archives Month Philly Event: From Oyntments & Salves to Kotex & Pills: An open house and exhibit on women's healthcare on October 9, 2018.

Events at the American Philosophical Society

• Frontier Rebels with Patrick Spero: A book talk on September 20, 2018.
• The Digital Restoration Initiative: Reading the Invisible Library: A lecture on September 23, 2018.
• The Landmark Julius Caesar: A lecture on October 25, 2018.
• An Academic Life with Hanna Gray: A lecture on October 4, 2018.

Other Notable Events

• The Institute for Science and Religion: Hosts lectures such as "How to Pursue Truth" by Camille Carlisle on November 13, 2018, and "Drawn to Follow the Road of Fire: Teilhard and Struggle" by Sister Kathleen Duffy on September 16, 2018.
• Wagner Free Institute of Science: Offers "Weeknights at the Wagner" and other lectures throughout the period.
• Penn Science Cafe: Lectures at World Cafe Live on various dates.
• Penn State University – Abington: Hosts "Friday Night Film" series.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The publication primarily focuses on events that explore the intersection of science, history, culture, and skepticism. There is a strong emphasis on historical and scientific topics, often presented through lectures, tours, and discussions. The editorial stance appears to be one that promotes intellectual curiosity and engagement with a wide range of subjects, from astronomy and physics to history and social issues. The frequent listings of events at Laurel Hill Cemetery suggest an interest in local history and its connection to broader themes. The inclusion of "PhACT" in the title and the focus on PhACT lectures indicate a specific affiliation or interest in this organization's activities.

Title: Phactum
Issue: July/August/September 2018
Volume: 41
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Phactum, dated July/August/September 2018, is primarily dedicated to a comprehensive listing of "Philadelphia Area Lecture Host Websites." The magazine aims to inform readers about various institutions and organizations in the Philadelphia region that host public lectures, events, and talks, particularly those related to science, critical thinking, and intellectual curiosity. The cover explicitly states that the listing "is likely incomplete" and encourages readers to email the Phactum editor with any corrections or additions.

Philadelphia Area Lecture Host Websites

The core of the issue is a directory of organizations, each with its name, a brief description of its location or event type, and its website address. These include:

• Academy of Natural Sciences: Lists a specific event on January 13, 2013, at 6:00 PM-8:00 PM, with a website provided.
• American Philosophical Society: Located at Benjamin Franklin Hall, 427 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, with a website for more information and notes that events are "Free and Open to the Public."
• Franklin Institute: Provides the website http://www.fi.edu.
• Free Library of Philadelphia (FLOP): Located at 1901 Vine Street, 19103, with a specific URL for author events.
• Freethought Society: Website provided is https://www.ftsociety.org/.
• Friends of Valley Forge: Notes events are held on the "first Tuesday of the month" and provides a website for more details.
• American Revolution Roundtable of Philadelphia (ARRTOP): Meets at MaGerks Pub and Grill, 582 South Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington, PA, with events on the "Last Monday of most months" and a website.
• Chemical Heritage Foundation: Directs readers to the Science History Institute.
• Science History Institute: Located at 315 Chestnut Street, Phila., PA 19106, with a website.
• College of Physicians of Philadelphia: Located at 19 South Twenty-Second Street, Phila. PA, with a link to their program calendar.
• Delaware County Institute of Science: Located at 11 Veterans Square, Media, PA 19063, with a website.
• Delaware Valley Opera Company: Mentions the Venice Island Performing Arts Center in Manayunk, Philadelphia, and provides a website.
• 2017 Summer Opera Festival: Associated with the Delaware Valley Opera Company.
• Delaware Valley Amateur Astronomers: Meets at the Radnor Township Municipal Building, 301 Iven Ave, Radnor, PA 19087, with events noted as "Free and Open to the Public."
• Eastern State Penitentiary: Located at 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, with events on the "First Tuesday of every month."
• Penn Science Cafe & Lightbulb Cafe: Located at World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, with events noted as "Free and Open to the Public."
• Penn State University Abington: Located at 112 Woodland Building, 1600 Woodland Rd, Abington, PA 19001, with a website.
• Pint of Science: Provides a national website for city-specific events.
• Rittenhouse Astronomical Society: Meets at the Fels Planetarium, The Franklin Institute, 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, with lectures "open to the Public" on the "Third Tuesday of every month."
• Science on the Hill at St. Joseph's University: Located at Landmark Americana Tap & Grill, 54th and City Avenue, Philadelphia 19131, with a website.
• Science on Tap: Meets on the "2nd Monday of each month" at National Mechanics, 22 S. Third Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106, with a website.
• University of Pennsylvania Museum: Located at 3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, with a website.
• Wagner Free Institute of Science: Located at 1700 West Montgomery Avenue, Philadelphia, with events noted as "Free and Open to the Public."
• Laboratory for Research on the Structure of Matter - Science Cafe: Provides a website for event listings.
• Laurel Hill Cemetery: Located at 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, with a website.
• Nerd Nite: Contact information includes an email address for event details.
• Humanist Association of Greater Philadelphia (HAGP): Website provided is www.HAGP.org.
• Institute for Science and Religion: Website provided is http://www.irands.org, with events noted as "Free and Open to the Public" with a donation requested.

PhACT Information and Membership

The second page of the magazine provides details about the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT). It expresses gratitude for the hospitality of the Community College of Philadelphia and Dr. David Cattell for hosting PhACT events. PhACT is described as supporting the goal of serving Philadelphia as a premier learning institution by hosting engaging and educational talks.

Information is provided for supporting PhACT through membership or donations. The annual membership is $15 ($10 for students), which includes e-mail delivery of Phactum. Donations are accepted for general support and specifically for High School Science Fair prizes. Mail checks can be sent to PhACT at 653 Garden Road, Glenside, PA 19038, or payments can be made online via www.PhACT.org.

Phactum is distributed 4 times a year and is described as the main "propaganda organ" for PhACT. The magazine also outlines 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 (as published in Skeptical Inquirer), provided the author and PhACT are credited. Other publications must obtain permission from PhACT.

PhACT Council 2018/19

The issue lists the members of the PhACT Council for the 2018/19 term:

• Bob Glickman, President
• David Cragin, PhD., Vice-President
• Doreva Belfiore, Treasurer
• Becky Strickland, Secretary
• Eric Krieg, Past President
• Wes Powers, Webmaster
• David Cattell Ph.D.
• Jeffrey Craigin, Teen Member of Council
• Ray Haupt
• David Langdon, M.D.
• Tom Napier

Ray Haupt is also identified as the Phactum Editor, with the email address [email protected].

Notable Quote

The issue features a prominent quote attributed to James Madison, fourth President of the United States (1751-1836):

"I believe there are more instances of the abridgement of freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments by those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the promotion of science communication and public engagement through lectures and events in the Philadelphia area. PhACT, as the publisher, clearly advocates for critical thinking and education, as evidenced by its support for diverse lecture series and its own mission. The inclusion of the James Madison quote suggests an underlying concern for civil liberties and an awareness of potential abuses of power, a theme often explored within skeptical and critical thinking communities. The magazine's stance is one of actively facilitating access to information and intellectual discourse.