REALL News - Vol 10 No 07 - 2002

Magazine Overview

The REALL News, Volume 10, Number 7, dated July 2002, is the official newsletter of the Rational Examination Association of Lincoln Land (REALL). The masthead features a quote from James Randi: "It's a very dangerous thing to believe in nonsense."

The Physics of ESP, Part 3 by Robert Novella

This article continues a discussion on the scientific feasibility of extrasensory perception (ESP). The author first examines the fundamental forces of nature, concluding they are insufficient to explain ESP. In Part 2, Quantum Mechanics and human physiology were discussed, with the conclusion that they also do not support ESP claims. This third part addresses other forms of ESP: telepathy (defined as mind-to-mind communication), clairvoyance (acquiring knowledge about an object or event without normal perception), and telekinesis (moving or influencing objects with the mind).

The author argues that telepathy is the most commonly assumed form of ESP, but clairvoyance, where information is supposedly sent by innocuous objects, is even more skeptical. Telekinesis, while sometimes considered separate from ESP as it involves influence rather than perception, is included due to its common association with paranormal mental powers.

Regarding telekinesis, the article explores the energy requirements. It posits that the brain, which normally consumes about 25 watts, would need to output 100 kilowatts to move a pen a few feet in about a second. This would require a four-fold increase in blood flow to the brain and a 60% increase in the body's total energy production, akin to vigorous exercise. This assumes the brain can focus energy efficiently, a separate and significant challenge.

An alternative power source for telekinesis is explored: Zero Point Energy, which exists in vacuum. While quantum mechanics confirms the existence of this energy, its harnessability for telekinesis is questioned due to insufficient amounts. Nobel laureate Steven Weinberg estimates that the Zero Point Energy within the Earth's volume is equivalent to only a gallon of gasoline. To lift a pen would require the energy from ten billion cubic meters of space.

Precognition, the perception of future events, is discussed next. It requires information to travel through time. While Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity supports the concept of time dilation (traveling into the future), traveling into the past is considered impossible by physicists. Speculation about black holes and wormholes as potential time travel methods is mentioned, but deemed impractical and fraught with engineering challenges. The grandfather paradox is cited as an example of the logical problems with time travel to the past.

The article concludes that ESP, particularly precognition, is incompatible with established principles of science, suggesting that either ESP claims are erroneous or much of science is wrong. It states that while our minds are powerful, ESP is not one of their true wonders.

In This Issue

The issue includes several other articles: "Author Looks at Ideas at the Frontiers of Science" by David Bloomberg, "Odds Are Good that Readers will Like This Book" also by David Bloomberg, "Sherlock Holmes Stories Teach About Common Mistakes" by David Bloomberg, and a "REALLity Check" column by David Bloomberg.

Author Looks at Ideas at the Frontiers of Science by David Bloomberg

This review discusses Marcus Chown's book, "The Universe Next Door: The Making of Tomorrow's Science." The book compiles ideas from scientists at the forefront of physics, some of which may seem "crazy" but could be true. The author emphasizes that nature does not have to conform to common sense and that evidence is key. The book explores concepts such as time reversal, multiple realities, particles outside of time, fifth dimensions, life on other planets, dark matter, and "mirror matter." The review notes that while some ideas are speculative, they are based on evidence, and the book aims to help readers distinguish speculation from facts. The article originally appeared in the State Journal-Register.

Odds Are Good that Readers Will Like This Book by David Bloomberg

This review covers Jefferson Hane Weaver's book, "What Are the Odds?: The Chances of Extraordinary Events in Everyday Life." The book uses wit and statistics to discuss topics like death, sex, romance, and probability. It aims to educate readers on statistics, which are often misunderstood. The author highlights Weaver's ability to explain complex concepts humorously, making them accessible. Topics covered include finding a mate, the chances of dying from various causes, and the lottery. The review suggests that the book, while not directly about fringe science, provides valuable information for understanding probabilities and combating irrational thinking. The article originally appeared in the State Journal-Register.

Sherlock Holmes Stories Teach About Common Mistakes by David Bloomberg

This review discusses Colin Bruce's book, "Conned Again Watson!: Cautionary Tales of Logic, Math, and Probability." The book uses Sherlock Holmes stories to impart lessons on logic and probability in an entertaining way. Bruce recreates the personas of Holmes and Watson and uses stories to illustrate various "cons," including intentional scams and self-deception. Examples include the "penny-wise, pound-foolish error" and the misconception that chance events must balance out. The review notes that Bruce also touches on topics like gambling, correlation vs. causation, and crop circles, making complex subjects understandable. It suggests that the book can help readers adopt a more logical outlook. The article originally appeared in the State Journal-Register.

REALLity Check by David Bloomberg

This column provides a roundup of news items. It begins with a report from New Zealand where a jury found parents guilty of killing their son by refusing conventional medical treatment for a vitamin B-12 deficiency in favor of herbal remedies, citing it as a test of their faith. The author quotes James Randi's statement about the danger of believing in nonsense.

Next, the column discusses a conflict in Italy over homeopathy. Despite a document signed by Nobel laureates and scientists denouncing homeopathy, and findings of ineffectiveness by government health agencies, the Health Minister indicated he would ignore these results, citing other studies. The author notes this as an example of science facing political interference.

Finally, the column addresses the US administration's decision to study ephedra again rather than banning it, despite its association with numerous deaths and side effects. The author criticizes the lack of regulation for supplements compared to prescription drugs.

From the Chairman, David Bloomberg

David Bloomberg, Chairman of REALL, discusses the cancellation of the annual REALL picnic due to low turnout and the difficulty of finding a suitable date. He announces that the July meeting is canceled, and the next meeting is planned for August, with a picnic likely in August as well. A September meeting is scheduled with Professor Karen Bartelt discussing the Intelligent Design movement, history, deceptions, and related topics.

Purpose of REALL

The Rational Examination Association of Lincoln Land (REALL) is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to rational thinking and the scientific method for studying paranormal and fringe-science phenomena. REALL conducts research, convenes meetings, and publishes a newsletter. It emphasizes the scientific method as the most reliable system for obtaining knowledge and does not reject paranormal claims a priori but insists on objective inquiry.

Board of Directors and Editorial Board

The issue lists the Board of Directors, including Chairman David Bloomberg, Vice Chairman Jim Rosenthal, Secretary-Treasurer Bob Ladendorf, Newsletter Editor Wally Hartshorn, and At-Large Members David McMaster, Clark Olson, and Mike Henebry. The Editorial Board consists of Wally Hartshorn, David Bloomberg, and Jim Rosenthal.

REALL Contacts

Contact information for REALL is provided, including a hotline number (217-726-5354), email addresses for the Chairman ([email protected]) and Editor ([email protected]), and the website (www.reall.org).

A Nod to Our Patrons

A list of REALL patron members is included, thanking them for their support. Patrons include Karen Bartelt, David Bloomberg, David Brown, Alan Burge, Bill Hahm, Charles Hanson, Wally Hartshorn, Bob Ladendorf, John Lockard, Jr., Stephen & Elaine Mayer, David McMaster, Bill Mellon, Jim Rosenthal, Doug Smith, and Melanie Wojtulewicz.

Our Next Meeting

The July meeting is canceled, with members encouraged to "Stay Home!" The next meeting is planned for August.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, the application of scientific principles and logic, and the debunking of pseudoscientific ideas. The REALL News consistently promotes skepticism, evidence-based reasoning, and a rational approach to understanding the world. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific inquiry and against unsubstantiated beliefs, as evidenced by the articles on ESP, the book reviews promoting critical thinking, and the "REALLity Check" segment highlighting cases where belief in nonsense has negative consequences. The organization itself is dedicated to promoting rational thinking and the scientific method.