REALL News - Vol 05 No 04 - 1997

Magazine Overview

The REALL News, Volume 5, Issue 4, published in April 1997, is a newsletter from The Rational Examination Association of Lincoln Land (REALL). The issue's cover story, "Be Wary of 'Alternative' Health Methods" by Stephen Barrett, M.D., serves as a central theme, warning readers about the uncritical promotion of unproven health practices.

"Alternative" Health Methods: A Skeptical Examination

Stephen Barrett, M.D., a retired psychiatrist and consumer advocate, critically analyzes the rise of "alternative" medicine. He argues that the term has become a politically correct label for practices previously identified as quackery. Barrett classifies alternative methods into three categories: genuine (scientifically validated), experimental (unproven but with a plausible rationale), and questionable (groundless and lacking scientific rationale). He asserts that most questionable alternatives are worthless, citing homeopathy as an archetype. Barrett criticizes the media for uncritically featuring proponents and satisfied clients, contributing to a societal trend of rejecting science. He emphasizes that under scientific principles, the burden of proof lies with those making claims, who must conduct suitable studies. Instead, promoters of questionable alternatives rely on anecdotes, testimonials, and political maneuvering.

Barrett explains that perceived improvements from alternative methods are often due to the placebo effect, natural symptom resolution, or the variable nature of ailments, rather than the treatment itself. He warns that relying on the placebo effect is misleading and that therapy should target abnormal physiology, not just symptom relief. A British study is cited where breast cancer patients treated at the Bristol Cancer Help Center had shorter survival times and metastasis-free periods compared to those treated at mainstream hospitals.

The article further discusses vitalism, a concept underlying many alternative practices, which posits a "life force" distinct from physical forces. Practitioners of vitalism, such as homeopaths, acupuncturists, and chiropractors, claim to stimulate the body's healing ability or balance "life energy." Barrett contends that these vitalistic concepts and "energies" cannot be measured scientifically and that vitalists often reject the scientific method in favor of subjective judgment and emotional satisfaction.

Barrett also addresses the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) Office of Alternative Medicine (OAM), suggesting its creation was spearheaded by promoters of questionable therapies. He notes that OAM's advisory panel has largely consisted of alternative medicine proponents and that its publications have not criticized any method, raising concerns about its scientific impartiality.

REALLity Check: Media and Pseudoscience

David Bloomberg's column, "REALLity Check," reviews media coverage of pseudoscientific and paranormal topics. He expresses surprise at a skeptical article in the Chicago Tribune suggesting alien abductions might not be real, linking them to false memories. This contrasts with the Tribune's past coverage of other topics, which Bloomberg found less critical.

The column discusses the therapist-induced false memories theory, citing psychologists Richard Ofshe and Elizabeth Loftus. Loftus suggests that alien abduction memories might be preferable to "recovered memories" of childhood abuse, as they could be less destructive to families.

Another segment covers Tim Harte's "ghost" hunting, which explores Michael Persinger's theory that electromagnetic fields can disrupt brain function and induce supernatural experiences. Harte's equipment measured strong electromagnetic fields in "haunted" locations, but the article notes the lack of comparison to non-haunted places and the need for double-blind studies, suggesting the possibility of a placebo effect.

Bloomberg also critiques an article in the State Journal-Register about Feng Shui, a practice focused on "energy" flow in homes. He notes the article's lack of scientific explanation for "energy" and its reliance on anecdotal evidence. Similarly, a Chicago Sun-Times article about a "fortune-teller" scam is discussed, with Investigator Bruce Walstad providing insights into how such cons operate through "cold reading" and manipulation.

Sources of Information and Upcoming Events

The issue includes a "Sources of Information" section, referencing articles on "Sybil" and the diagnosis of multiple personality disorder, and a critique of media coverage of science by Kendrick Frazier of Skeptical Inquirer. It also lists upcoming events, including a REALL meeting with Michael Shermer of the Skeptics Society, a Center for Inquiry workshop, and a Skeptics Society conference.

Organization Information and Membership

The newsletter provides information about REALL's purpose: to promote rational thinking and the scientific method. It outlines REALL's commitment to objective inquiry and its role in conducting research, convening meetings, and publishing its newsletter. The masthead lists the Board of Directors and Editorial Board members, including David Bloomberg as Chairman and Bob Ladendorf as Editor. The issue concludes with a "Nod to Our Patrons" thanking members who contribute financially to support REALL's mission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards unproven claims, particularly in health and paranormal phenomena, and a critical examination of media coverage of these topics. The editorial stance, as represented by Stephen Barrett's article and David Bloomberg's column, strongly advocates for the scientific method, critical thinking, and evidence-based reasoning, while cautioning against pseudoscience, quackery, and sensationalism. REALL positions itself as an organization dedicated to promoting rational thought and scientific inquiry.