REALL News - Vol 10 No 06 - 2002

Magazine Overview

Title: The REALL News
Issue: Volume 10, Number 6
Date: June 2002
Publisher: Rational Examination Association of Lincoln Land (REALL)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The REALL News, the official newsletter of the Rational Examination Association of Lincoln Land, focuses on the intersection of science, pseudoscience, and critical thinking. It features articles debunking paranormal claims, promoting scientific literacy, and exploring different perspectives on creationism.

The Physics of ESP, Part 2 by Robert Novella

This article continues the discussion from Part 1, examining whether quantum mechanics (QM) can provide a mechanism for extrasensory perception (ESP). Novella explains that while QM presents a reality that is counterintuitive to everyday experience, its bizarre aspects do not justify paranormal beliefs. He introduces key QM concepts: energy is discrete, not continuous; matter and energy are both wave-like and particle-like; there's an intrinsic limit to simultaneous knowledge (e.g., position and momentum); and unmeasured quantum systems exist in a superposition of states until measured, causing the wavefunction to collapse. Novella notes that the Copenhagen Interpretation is one of several interpretations of QM.

The article addresses the connection between QM and ESP through the concept of quantum entanglement, where two particles share a common origin and behave as one system, with effects on one instantaneously affecting the other, regardless of distance. While experiments have demonstrated this phenomenon, Novella argues that interpreting this as instantaneous information transfer is specious. He explains that entanglement demonstrates correlations, not necessarily a signal. Furthermore, even if signals were sent, QM's statistical nature, which only allows for probabilistic predictions, makes it impossible to encode a message for instant transmission. The act of measurement forces a particle into a state, but one cannot predict which state beforehand. Therefore, random bits of data, not interpretable messages, could be sent.

Another argument against entanglement explaining ESP is quantum decoherence, where interactions with other particles destroy special connections. The human brain, being a complex classical system (though made of quantum components), would cause any entangled particles produced within it to quickly decohere, preventing any ESP message from being sent.

Novella also discusses the physiological perspective, stating that if ESP existed, there would need to be specialized receptors in the human body to intercept and interpret these signals. He asserts that despite extensive study of human senses and receptors, no such mysterious receptors for unknown energies have been found. He debunks the myth that humans only use 10% of their brain, explaining that the brain consumes significant resources and evolutionary pressures would not favor such an underutilized organ. The article concludes that modern science offers no plausible mechanism or direct evidence for ESP, increasing the need for skepticism. The author notes that while lack of a mechanism doesn't disprove a phenomenon, compelling evidence is required, which is currently lacking for ESP.

Bad Astronomy and Poor Critical Thinking by David Bloomberg

David Bloomberg's article highlights the importance of critical thinking and scientific literacy, using examples of popular misconceptions and pseudosciences. He introduces Philip Plait, a research manager at Sonoma State University and creator of the "Bad Astronomy" website, who aims to bring astronomy to the public on a daily basis. Plait's new book, "Bad Astronomy: Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed," tackles topics ranging from science fiction movie reviews to pseudoscience.

One of the myths Plait addresses is the claim that eggs can only be balanced on their ends during the Vernal Equinox. Bloomberg emphasizes that this is a myth and that eggs can be balanced at any time. Plait argues that the media's continued propagation of such misinformation erodes public trust in their reporting on more critical matters like medicine and business. He stresses that the real issue is not "bad astronomy" but "lack of critical thinking," as people are easily convinced of things if they don't think critically.

Professor Charles Schweighauser of the University of Illinois, Springfield, confirms that he receives many legitimate questions but also deals with "bad astronomy," particularly astrology, which he calls "sloppy thinking, not scientific thinking." Bloomberg differentiates between bad science, which can be corrected, and pseudoscience, which is "pernicious" and often perpetuated by a "big industry." The book also covers other pseudosciences like supposed planetary alignments, UFOs, and creationism.

Bloomberg quotes Plait calling creationism "the worst" because it promotes religion as science, which is "silly." Plait notes that creationists often attack biology but also impact astronomy with inaccurate web pages and outdated theories. The article also touches on the moon landing hoax conspiracy theory, which gained traction after a Fox network special.

Bloomberg recounts how Plait received numerous emails regarding a TV show about a supposed UFO, and how a local news station reported an asteroid collision course with Earth, despite a very low probability and distant timeframe. The article concludes by urging people to understand good science from bad, lest they be misled by sensationalized media reports.

Sad News: Stephen Jay Gould

The article notes the passing of Stephen Jay Gould at the age of 60. Gould is remembered as a great science popularizer and scientist who addressed evolution, a topic often controversial. His theory of punctuated equilibrium faced debate, and creationists were accused of misrepresenting his work. The article mentions a past incident where creationist Kent Hovind falsely claimed Gould agreed to a debate, a claim Gould himself denied.

A Different Kind of Creationism by Clark Olson

Clark Olson's article explores a less common approach to creationism within the Roman Catholic Church, contrasting it with the more prevalent "young earth creationism." He describes how Dominican and other Catholic groups embrace modern cosmology and even sacralize it, viewing creation as an ongoing, unfinished process that accepts evolution. Olson recounts attending a presentation by a visiting priest and nun who discussed the theological implications of modern cosmology.

The day began with a ritual illustrating the history of the universe from the Big Bang to the origin of life, emphasizing creation as a continuous process. The audience, primarily Dominican and Franciscan nuns, were educated and likely familiar with the material but received additional depth and encouragement. Olson notes that this perspective encourages environmentally friendly living, contrasting it with some religious conservatives who are perceived as only interested in Heaven.

The article identifies Brian Swimme, a physicist, as a key figure in this movement, whose videos focus on cosmology. It also mentions Matthew Fox and Thomas Berry, who are associated with the "Gaia idea." Olson then discusses different religious groups' approaches to Biblical literalism, noting that the Roman Catholic Church is not literalist in this context. He contrasts this with the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA), which has some nonliteralist statements, and the aggressively literalist Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, and Jehovah's Witnesses.

Olson argues that while evolutionists present science, creationists often try to discredit it. He believes more attention should be paid to the "untenability of the religious side of the debate." He points out that Genesis was written by people, not God, at different times and under different circumstances, and that even if inspired by God, it's unlikely to contain scientific truths. He highlights the scientific implausibility of literal interpretations, such as Adam naming all creatures or Noah fitting them on the ark. Olson calls for religious leaders to speak out on these issues, noting the lack of a regular forum for such discussions compared to scientific publications. He invites readers to share information about specific religious groups' approaches to creationism.

From the Chairman by David Bloomberg

David Bloomberg, Chairman of REALL, announces the second annual picnic meeting on Saturday, June 8, at 4:00 PM, hosted by Board member Dave McMaster at his home in Springfield. He notes that the main course will be provided, with desserts and side dishes being a potluck. He encourages RSVPs to Dave McMaster.

Bloomberg also reflects on the low turnout at the May meeting, expressing disappointment that more members did not attend a chance to support science and education. He asks for feedback from members via email.

A Nod to Our Patrons

A section thanks REALL's patron members for their generosity, which helps the organization grow. A list of patron members is provided, including their names and locations.

REALL Contacts and Purpose

Information is provided on REALL's purpose as a non-profit organization dedicated to rational thinking and the scientific method. It outlines its activities, geographic region, and commitment to objective inquiry. Membership rates and contact information (hotline, chairman, editor, website) are also listed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, the importance of scientific literacy and critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscience. The REALL News consistently promotes a skeptical and evidence-based approach to understanding the world. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific rationality and against the uncritical acceptance of unsubstantiated beliefs, whether they stem from paranormal claims, pseudoscientific theories, or literalist interpretations of religious texts that conflict with scientific consensus. The newsletter actively seeks to educate its readers and encourage them to question and analyze information rigorously.