REALL News - Vol 04 No 01 - 1996

Magazine Overview

The REALL News, Volume 4, Issue 1, published in January 1996, features a cover headline "Of Evolution and the Supernatural." The issue includes book reviews by David Bloomberg and Bob Ladendorf.

Book Review: River Out of Eden: A Darwinian View of Life by Richard Dawkins

Reviewed by David Bloomberg, this section discusses Richard Dawkins' book, "River Out of Eden." The reviewer notes that the title, referencing the biblical story of Eden, might seem odd given Dawkins' strict Darwinian stance and his frequent arguments against creationism. Dawkins explains that the 'river' in the title refers not to water but to DNA, carrying information through generations. The book is written for a lay audience and aims to explain evolutionary basics, including refuting creationist claims with simple logic and evolutionary theory. Chapter 3, "Do Good by Stealth," is highlighted for its discussion of creationism, particularly addressing the "Argument from Personal Incredulity," where a correspondent doubted evolution based on a complex orchid-wasp interaction. Dawkins uses this to illustrate that human judgment alone is insufficient for assessing evolutionary processes. The reviewer appreciates that Dawkins tackles creationism directly, as many scientists tend to overlook it. The book is described as short (172 pages, five chapters) and uses well-thought-out scientific experiments to support its arguments, providing an overview without excessive technical detail. It is recommended for both those with and without a strong biology background.

Dawkins addresses the common creationist question, "If evolution is true, then we have no purpose for being here," by stating that science answers 'how' questions, while 'why' questions fall into the realm of faith. He counters the "Argument from Design" with Darwinian natural selection, explaining the "illusion of purposeful design." The reviewer emphasizes that Dawkins' arguments can be used by skeptics to challenge creationists, particularly regarding the evolution of complex organs like the eye, where Dawkins argues that even partial development (e.g., 20% of an eye) is superior to none.

Book Review: An Encyclopedia of Claims, Frauds, and Hoaxes of the Occult and Supernatural "exposed by" James Randi

Reviewed by Bob Ladendorf, this section covers James Randi's encyclopedia. The reviewer expresses a strong desire for this book to be widely available, suggesting it alongside Funk & Wagnalls. The subtitle, "James Randi's Decidedly Skeptical Definitions of Alternate Realities," gives a clear indication of its content. The encyclopedia is described as informative and entertaining, with the reviewer finding humor in the debunking of various con men and pseudoscientific claims, such as Dr. Albert Abrams and his "Omnipotent Oscilloclast" radio-wave machines. The book is noted for its wry tone and straightforward explanations, balanced with witty observations.

Randi, a professional magician and skeptic, covers a wide range of subjects, from faith healing to psychic surgery. A particularly detailed section examines the biblical prediction of the battle of Armageddon. Randi calculates that for the prophesied river of blood to reach the specified height and distance, approximately 360 million people would need to be slaughtered simultaneously, an impossible feat given the area's capacity. The encyclopedia includes illustrations and photos, with a cross-referencing system that links related entries. The reviewer notes a minor issue with some illustrations not being properly screened, interfering with the text. The final part of the book, detailing 49 failed "end-of-the-world" prophecies, is described as devastating. The book's ethos is summarized by a quote from Bertrand Russell: "What is wanted is not the will to believe but the wish to find out."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly promotes skepticism and critical thinking, evident in the reviews of both Dawkins' evolutionary arguments and Randi's debunking of pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific explanations and rational inquiry over belief in the supernatural or creationist viewpoints. The magazine seems dedicated to providing accessible information that challenges unsubstantiated beliefs and promotes a scientific understanding of the world.