Phactum - 2019 01 - January

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: January/February/March 2019
Publisher: PhACT, the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Focus: Support for science, critical thinking, and science education, with an emphasis on investigating controversial or extraordinary claims.

Dinosaur Extinction: Volcanoes or a Meteor?

This feature article, by Paul Schlueter III, explores the ongoing scientific debate regarding the cause of the dinosaur extinction event approximately 65 million years ago. It contrasts the widely accepted 'Impactor Theory,' proposed by physicist Luis Alvarez in 1980, with the alternative theory of massive volcanic activity, championed by paleontologist Gerta Keller.

Luis Alvarez, a Nobel laureate, found iridium in geological strata worldwide, suggesting it originated from a meteor impact, possibly at Chicxulub, Mexico. His theory gained rapid acceptance, dominating the scientific conversation within two years.

Gerta Keller, a professor at Princeton University, argues for a more gradual extinction caused by the Deccan Traps volcanic eruption in India. This event, which occurred around the same time, released vast amounts of lava and toxic gases, leading to a prolonged period of environmental catastrophe. Keller's research suggests a die-off lasting hundreds of thousands of years, predating the main extinction event by about 200,000 years, and she questions the impact theory's ability to explain previous extinctions.

The article highlights the acrimonious nature of this scientific dispute, describing it as a "thirty-year war" with accusations of slander, sabotage, and ignorance exchanged between proponents of both theories. The discovery of the Chicxulub crater in 1991 bolstered the impact theory.

Keller points to historical volcanic events, like the 1783 Laki eruption in Iceland, as examples of how volcanism can cause widespread devastation, including global temperature increases, droughts, and famine, supporting her argument for the Deccan Traps' role.

The debate is framed within the context of current global warming discussions, with the article suggesting a parallel between the chemicals released by volcanic eruptions and those from burning fossil fuels. It poses the question of whether humanity's current actions are contributing to a sixth mass extinction.

PhACT Events and Lectures

The magazine outlines upcoming PhACT events, including lectures and expeditions. Dr. David Cattell hosts monthly meetings at the Community College of Philadelphia.

• January 19, 2019: Lecture by Paul Offit, M.D., on his book "Bad Advice: Why Celebrities Aren't Your Best Source of Health Information." Offit, a vaccinologist and pediatrician, discusses the challenges scientists face in communicating complex information and how misinformation spreads.
• February 16, 2019: Lecture by Earl Bennett, past President of the Philadelphia Area Space Alliance, on "The Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI)." The talk will cover historical and modern techniques for searching for extraterrestrial life.
• March 16, 2019: A PhACT lecture with the topic to be determined.
• April 20, 2019: A PhACT lecture with the topic to be determined.
• May 18, 2019: A PhACT Expedition to Indian Rock at Tyler Arboretum, focusing on a peculiar artifact and the local history of the Lenape people.

Featured Book: Bad Advice

Paul A. Offit's book "Bad Advice: Or Why Celebrities, Politicians, and Activists Aren't Your Best Source of Health Information" is featured. The book critiques the spread of health misinformation by non-experts and advocates for evidence-based science.

Letters to the Editor

This section includes correspondence from readers:

• Howard J. Wilk comments on journalistic aversion to precision, questioning the use of "nearly 50" instead of "49" trades.
• Another letter presents a pseudoscientific claim attributed to Dr. Yavuz Örnek, suggesting Noah's Ark was made of steel and ran on nuclear power, with links provided to further information.
• Eric Krieg responds to a challenge regarding free energy claims, outlining terms for testing and emphasizing the need to rule out fraud. He encourages rigorous testing and open sharing of ideas, even if they seem to defy known physics.

Various Ruminations

This section, collected by Ray Haupt, covers several topics:

• The Evolution of Creationism: Discusses Eric Krieg's talk on the topic and the role of the National Center for Science Education (NCSE) in tracking creationism and intelligent design. The author expresses skepticism about proposed solutions to climate change.
• Gambling Notes: Reports on the potential financial windfall for the NHL from legal sports betting and discusses the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling's efforts to educate parents about gambling risks for teens. It also touches on Pennsylvania's regulations for online gambling, preventing access within licensed casinos.

Reader Participation Desired

An invitation for readers to submit their thoughts and essays on various topics, encouraging critical thinking and the exploration of diverse opinions, including those from creationists and UFOlogists. The submission guidelines emphasize passionate but not angry discourse and exclude political topics and celebrity gossip.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific investigation, and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. It encourages readers to engage with complex issues, question information sources, and rely on evidence-based reasoning. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific discourse and against pseudoscience and misinformation, particularly in areas like health and evolution. The publication also seems to have a focus on local events and discussions relevant to its Philadelphia-area readership.

Phactum, January, February, March 2019 issue, covers a diverse range of topics including gambling, cults, alternative medicine, and science education. The magazine features articles, news reports, and reviews, providing insights into current events and ongoing discussions in these areas.

Gambling and Its Ramifications

The issue highlights several stories related to gambling. In Philadelphia, USA, 'Skinny Joey' Merlino, a reputed mob boss, received a two-year federal prison sentence for a gambling-related count. The article details accusations of operating illegal gambling rings and bribing doctors. In Nevada, USA, the article discusses the dangers of gambling as jackpot hits reach record highs, with Mega Millions at $1.6 billion, leading to increased crowds and concerns about problem gambling. A study from the University of British Columbia, Canada, suggests that flashing lights and catchy tunes from electronic gambling machines (EGMs) contribute to their addictive potential, making gamblers make riskier decisions. Pennsylvania has granted Harrah's Philadelphia Casino a license for sports gambling, with the company leveraging experience from its parent company, Caesars Entertainment Corp. The United Kingdom is experiencing a rise in female online gamblers, prompting scientific study into their habits. In New York, USA, the article criticizes pro teams and leagues for promoting gambling without acknowledging the inherent risk to customers. A report from California, USA, details how two nuns allegedly embezzled over $500,000 from a school, spending it on vacations and casinos. The magazine also explores the commonalities in gambling habits between men and women, noting that men tend to prefer skill-based games and strategy, while women lean towards luck-based games and lower-risk options like bingo and slots.

Cults and Belief Systems

Joe Szimhart, an expert on cults, is featured discussing his experiences and insights. A PhACT meeting report covers his talk, "Cults: 30 Years Ago and Today," where he shared his personal experience with a new age cult and discussed the nature of cults over the last 30 years. The Harmonic Convergence event of August 1987 is mentioned as an example of a cult-like occurrence. The issue also reviews Joe Szimhart's book, "Mushroom Satori: The Cult Diary," describing it as a journey exploring faith, philosophy, and family, and offering a glimpse into the world of cults. The article notes that an estimated five to seven million Americans have been involved in cults or similar groups. Another report details the Jonestown Massacre of 1978, where 918 people died, primarily from cyanide poisoning, and mentions the murder of Congressman Leo Ryan and four others. The magazine also touches upon the "Don't drink the Cool-aide" phrase originating from this event. A separate report discusses the rise of cult hotlines in the 1980s, particularly concerning Satanism and Scientology, and the publication of books and articles exploring cult ideas. The concept of a "Self Sealing Social System" is explained in relation to cult dynamics, including the "exit cost" for members leaving a cult. The martial arts cult Chung Moo Quan, founded by John C. Kim, is mentioned as an example of a cult that used indoctrination and extortion.

Alternative Medicine and Health Scrutiny

The issue critically examines alternative medicine. A report on a Yale School of Medicine study indicates that patients who chose "unproven cancer treatments" had a significantly higher risk of death compared to those receiving conventional cancer treatment. The article defines alternative medicine as practices that cannot be tested, refuse to be tested, or consistently fail tests. Spain is proposing a ban on alternative medicine in health centers. A chiropractor in Halifax, Canada, had her clinic shut down for promoting implausible health claims, including associations of vaccines with autism and cancer. The magazine also reports on lead found in spices, herbal products, and ceremonial powders in North Carolina, which can lead to developmental delays and behavioral problems in children. The article "Do We Really Need Science Education?" discusses a jury decision that affirmed the sale of Oscillococcinum, a homeopathic product, despite claims that it is essentially water. The author argues for the necessity of science education to counter such outcomes.

Science and Evolution

The magazine features an article on Dr. Carl Woese, the discoverer of Archaea, highlighting his contributions to molecular phylogenetics and the discovery of a new domain of life. The article discusses the evolution of life, contrasting traditional views of evolution through diversion with the discovery of horizontal gene transfer. It also touches upon the debate between creationism and evolution, noting that some countries have banned the teaching of evolution. The Wagner Free Institute of Science is promoting various courses and lectures on topics such as fermentation, biochemistry, environmental geology, recycling, plant adaptations, and genetic engineering, emphasizing that these are free and open to the public.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum include the societal impact of gambling, the psychological and sociological aspects of cults, the critical evaluation of alternative medicine versus evidence-based science, and the importance of science education. The editorial stance appears to be one that favors scientific understanding, critical thinking, and evidence-based practices, while cautioning against deceptive advertising, unproven remedies, and manipulative group dynamics.

Phactum, January, February, March 2019 issue. This issue features a diverse range of articles, including scientific discoveries, historical figures, and intriguing paradoxes, alongside a calendar of upcoming events.

Articles

Horizontal Gene Transfer: Shaking the Tree of Life

This article explores the groundbreaking work of biologist Carl Woese, who revolutionized the understanding of life's evolutionary history. Woese's research led to the identification of three main domains of life: Bacteria, Eukarya, and Archaea. A key revelation was the concept of Horizontal Gene Transfer (HGT), where DNA segments can move between unrelated organisms, challenging the traditional view of vertical inheritance. The article highlights how HGT is now understood to occur through conjugation, transformation, and transduction. Evidence of HGT is presented across various life forms, including plants, bacteria (E. coli in yeast), rotifers, insects, and even humans, where 8% of the human genome consists of viral DNA inserted sideways. The article also touches upon the discovery of Lokiarchaeota, a DNA segment found deep-sea, potentially linked to human DNA heritage.

The Water-and-Wine Paradox

Written by Howard J. Wilk, this piece delves into a mathematical paradox concerning the average ratio of water to wine in a mixture. The paradox arises when different calculation methods yield conflicting results for the water-to-wine ratio. The article references a Science magazine blog post and an essay by Veronique Greenwood about physicist Francis Pesey, who explored this paradox. Pesey's work, though sometimes criticized as "incomprehensible," suggests an average water-to-wine ratio of 1.4 or 7/5. The author also explores other potential solutions and averages, highlighting that many people have grappled with this seemingly simple yet complex problem.

Petrarch – Why it's worthwhile knowing a bit about him

Authored by Albert Fried-Cassorla, this article introduces the 14th-century writer, scholar, and poet Petrarch (Francesco Petrarca). Petrarch is credited as a founder of Humanism, emphasizing critical thinking over dogma. The piece discusses his essay "On My Own Ignorance and that of others," noting his self-effacing tone and his views on knowledge and will. Petrarch believed that a "good and pious will" is more important than a "capable and clear intellect." The article also mentions his relationship with Aristotle and Cicero and provides links to his essays and sonnets.

Eric's $10,000 Challenge: Why We Need Better Science Education

Written by Becky Strickland, this article discusses Eric Krieg's long-standing challenge to offer $10,000 for proof of a working free energy machine. Krieg, an electrical engineer, outlines specific criteria for testing such a machine, emphasizing the need for measurable output over 24 hours and the absence of conventional fuel sources. The article also provides advice for aspiring inventors, encouraging them to research existing ideas, understand the laws of conservation of energy, and be wary of conspiracies. It highlights the importance of small-scale testing and transparency to rule out fraud. A separate inquiry about overcoming gravity is met with a direct "There is no way to overcome gravity."

Upcoming PhACT Events

This section details a calendar of events hosted by PhACT (Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking) and related organizations. Events include lectures on topics such as "Bad Advice: Why Celebrities Aren't Your Best Source of Health Information" by Paul Offit, M.D., and "The Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence" by Earl Bennett. Other listed events cover a range of scientific and historical subjects, including talks on Benjamin Franklin, nuclear regulation, astronomy, and the history of science.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and skepticism, evident in its coverage of scientific controversies like Horizontal Gene Transfer, its exploration of paradoxes, and its focus on evidence-based reasoning. The "Eric's $10,000 Challenge" article underscores the magazine's commitment to promoting science education and rigorous testing of new ideas. The calendar of events further reinforces this stance by featuring lectures and discussions on scientific topics, often from a skeptical perspective. The overall editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity, encouraging readers to question, investigate, and engage with complex subjects from a rational viewpoint.

Title: Phactum
Issue: January, February, March 2019
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum serves as a comprehensive listing of lectures, workshops, and events scheduled for the first quarter of 2019 in the Philadelphia area. It highlights the activities organized or supported by the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, an organization dedicated to promoting science, critical thinking, and science education.

Featured Events and Lectures

The magazine details a wide array of events hosted by various institutions, including universities, museums, historical societies, and scientific organizations. These events are designed to engage the public with diverse topics and provide opportunities for learning and discussion.

Astronomy and Science

The Rittenhouse Astronomical Society holds monthly meetings at the Fels Planetarium at The Franklin Institute, offering opportunities for the public to learn about astronomy. The issue also lists "Science on Tap" events, which feature informal presentations by scientists followed by discussions, and "Penn Science Cafe" lectures, often held at World Cafe Live or the Wilma Theater, covering various scientific topics.

History and Culture

Historical themes are prominent, with events focusing on the Revolutionary War, American Jewish history, and archaeology. The Laurel Hill Cemetery hosts numerous tours and lectures exploring "The Hot Spots and Storied Plots," "Classy Broads and Daring Dames," and "Cities of the Dead for the Living." The American Revolution Round Table of Philadelphia presents talks on historical figures and events. The Penn Museum hosts lectures on archaeology, including "The Stuff of Legend: Early 19th Century Excavations at Nippur" and "The Stuff Beyond: The Great Maya Cosmos."

Special Interest Topics

Other featured topics include "Spies, Patriots, and Traitors: American Intelligence in the Revolutionary War," "Translating the Odyssey: Why and How," and discussions on "The Evolution of Cooperation." The "WikiSalon" events encourage participation in editing Wikipedia, focusing on science topics.

Key Institutions and Venues

Several key institutions and venues are repeatedly mentioned as hosts for these events:

• Laurel Hill Cemetery: Hosts numerous historical and cultural lectures and tours.
• Eastern State Penitentiary: Features a lecture series on various topics.
• The Franklin Institute: Home to the Fels Planetarium and hosts astronomy lectures.
• University of Pennsylvania Museum: Offers lectures on archaeology and culture.
• Science History Institute: Hosts events related to science and its history.
• College of Physicians of Philadelphia: Presents lectures on various subjects, including medical history and science.
• National Mechanics: Venue for "Science on Tap" events.
• Suzanne Roberts Theatre: Hosts "Penn Lightbulb Café" lectures.

Membership and Support

The magazine concludes with information on how to support the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking. It outlines membership dues ($15 annually for regular members, $10 for students) which include email delivery of Phactum, and encourages donations for additional support and High School Science Fair prizes. Contact information for the PhACT editor and mailing address for checks are provided, along with an option to pay online.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum are the promotion of science, critical thinking, and education through public lectures and events. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of making knowledge accessible to the general public, encouraging intellectual curiosity, and fostering a deeper understanding of scientific and historical subjects. The emphasis on "free and open to the public" events underscores a commitment to broad community engagement. The publication acts as a central hub for disseminating information about intellectual and cultural activities within the Philadelphia area, particularly those that align with the goals of critical inquiry and evidence-based reasoning.