REALL News - Vol 09 No 04 - 2001

Magazine Overview

The REALL News, Volume 9, Number 4, published in April 2001, is the official newsletter of the Rational Examination Association of Lincoln Land (REALL). It is dedicated to promoting rational thinking and the scientific method in examining paranormal and fringe-science claims. The issue includes a variety of articles, reviews, and organizational updates.

Local Creationist Changes His Mind

This feature article by Lapri Solof reports on David Sack, a creationist who led the Lincoln Land Community College's creation club. Sack has admitted he was wrong and plans to announce this to his club. He credits Professor Malcolm Levin for showing him that genes are not computer programs and are "really, really small." Sack intends to pursue a Ph.D. in biology to teach the actual science and explain the errors in creationist arguments, such as the misuse of the "second law of thermodynamics." He acknowledges that his former club members may struggle to accept this, as they are often "100% certain that their view is the only Truth." One anonymous club member expressed concern but will wait for Sack's official announcement. The article notes that the April 1st announcement date might lead some to believe it's an April Fools' joke, which the author confirms it is.

From the Chairman

In his column, REALL Chairman David Bloomberg explains that the "Local Creationist Changes His Mind" article was an April Fools' Day spoof, inspired by a photo on the front page. He clarifies that David Sack is still a creationist and that the article was a parody. He also mentions that other articles in the issue were chosen with the April Fool's theme in mind, including reviews of "Complete Idiot's Guides." Bloomberg also announces the April 3rd business meeting, which will discuss proposed changes to the organization's Bylaws, including extending terms to two years and offering exclusive benefits to patron members. He also mentions an upcoming trip to New York to meet with officials from CSICOP and other skeptic groups.

Guides to Psychic Power and Tarot?

This review by David Bloomberg critically examines two "Complete Idiot's Guide" books: "Being Psychic" and "Tarot and Fortune-Telling." Bloomberg argues that these books treat paranormal beliefs as fact, requiring readers to accept them without evidence. He cites an example from "Being Psychic" about a psychic scam where the authors still claimed the psychic was gifted. He criticizes "Tarot" for its vague card meanings and for basing descriptions on casual observation rather than standard symbolism. Bloomberg points out that the authors claim cards answer questions even when they seem wrong, essentially covering all bases. He notes that the books acknowledge skepticism but dismiss it, often misinterpreting the word "debunk." The review highlights instances where the books cite questionable evidence, such as Uri Geller, firewalking, therapeutic touch, and the Fox Sisters, while ignoring scientific explanations or evidence of hoaxes. The author concludes that while the series is useful for practical skills, it fails when applied to complex and controversial topics like the paranormal, potentially making readers feel like "a complete idiot."

Meaningless Divisions and Meaningless Predictions

This article by David Bloomberg addresses a common misconception about evolution, specifically the distinction between microevolution and macroevolution. He explains that the question, submitted by A. Frederic Harms, suggests these are two different theories. Bloomberg, writing as "SDSTAFF David" for The Straight Dope, clarifies that microevolution (small changes within a species) and macroevolution (changes leading to new species and beyond) are part of a single, continuous evolutionary process. He references Niles Eldredge's book "The Triumph of Evolution and the Failure of Creationism," which emphasizes the "utter continuity in evolutionary processes from the smallest scales (microevolution) up through the largest scales (macroevolution)." Bloomberg argues that creationists accept microevolution but reject macroevolution without a valid reason for drawing a dividing line. He concludes that biological evidence shows that the same natural forces drive all evolutionary change, from small variations to the diversification of life.

Mark

This section addresses two "Straight Dope" questions. The first, submitted by Heather and Mark, asks how a Ouija board works. Bloomberg explains that it is a game manufactured by Parker Brothers and that its operation is based on the ideomotor effect, an involuntary muscle movement, rather than spirits. He suggests that users unconsciously select the letters. The second part of this section is a continuation of the "From the Chairman" column, discussing proposed changes to REALL's bylaws.

Our Next Meeting

This section announces an upcoming business meeting for REALL on Tuesday, April 3, at 7:00 PM at the Lincoln Library in Springfield, Illinois. The meeting will cover proposed changes to the bylaws and will include a request for suggestions for issues to raise at a gathering of skeptic group leaders in New York. The meeting is free and open to the public.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The REALL News consistently promotes a skeptical and scientific approach to claims of the paranormal and fringe science. The editorial stance is critical of pseudoscience, highlighting logical fallacies, lack of evidence, and misinterpretations of scientific concepts, as seen in the reviews of psychic books and the discussion on evolution. The newsletter also engages with its readership through a Q&A format and updates on organizational matters, while maintaining a commitment to objective inquiry and rational examination.