REALL News - Vol 10 No 08 - 2002

Magazine Overview

Title: The REALL News
Issue Date: August 2002
Volume: 10, Number 8
Publisher: Rational Examination Association of Lincoln Land (REALL)
Character: This issue of The REALL News, a newsletter focused on rational examination of paranormal and fringe-science claims, features articles on skepticism, consumer health advice, and scientific debates.

The Doom of Debunkeritis by Martin Kottmeyer

Martin Kottmeyer critically examines a list of symptoms for "Debunkeritis," a supposed pathological skepticism, originally presented by David Jacobs. Kottmeyer finds the concept and its labeling as a "disease" to be adolescent and questions the validity of the symptoms, suggesting they are based on limited examples and lack general applicability. He specifically dissects "Apocalyptist's disease," which characterizes debunkers as viewing paranormal anomalies as a threat to science and civilization, requiring significant funds to combat. Kottmeyer contrasts this with the more nuanced concerns expressed in the announcement for the symposium that launched CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), noting that Paul Kurtz, CSICOP's chairman, presented a more balanced view in his papers. He also points out the irony of individuals like Jerome Clark, who is critical of "apocalyptic" debunkers, having themselves expressed apocalyptic sentiments regarding UFOs and societal collapse.

Kottmeyer argues that the notion of debunkers being apocalyptic is idiosyncratic and likely derived from David Jacobs. He compares Clark's version of this idea to passages from "The Unidentified" by Jerome Clark and Loren Coleman, finding similarities in the apocalyptic tone regarding technology and civilization. He suggests that the charge of "apocalyptic disease" might be a projection of Kottmeyer's own thought patterns, as apocalyptic expectations are common within the UFO community.

He further critiques the idea that science is under threat, citing a 1978 Harris poll showing high public prestige for scientists. Kottmeyer questions whether irrationality is increasing or simply changing forms, and suggests that while education can help, it cannot eradicate the attraction to mystery rooted in human nature. He concludes that while science faces challenges from "forces of unreason," it is not being overwhelmed and that progress in overcoming irrationality will involve appreciating humanity's fascination with mystery and drama.

Kottmeyer also touches upon the financial aspects of ufology, contrasting the cost of building a debunker facility with the perceived waste of funds within the UFO community on questionable research, citing Jacques Vallee's withdrawal from the field due to its lack of serious scientific work.

Don't Get Duped: Guide Cuts Through False Medical Claims by David Bloomberg

David Bloomberg reviews Larry M. Forness's book, "Don't Get Duped!: A Consumer's Guide to Health and Fitness." The book aims to educate consumers about the prevalence of "medical miracles" advertised in magazines and online, such as weight loss products, anti-aging solutions, and supplements. Forness provides a detailed guide to spotting false claims, including dissecting outrageous advertisements and identifying "fundamentals of fakery" such as unconscious implication and "scientific technobabble."

Bloomberg highlights Forness's "fundamentals of fakery," including "screaming superlatives" like "AMAZING!" and "MIRACULOUS!" which lack scientific meaning. He also discusses the term "all natural," which Forness states has no scientific definition but is used to imply superiority. A key point is that herbal supplements are often exempt from the rigorous testing required for drugs, making them potentially dangerous and ineffective. Forness emphasizes that the only guaranteed way to lose weight is by reducing caloric intake and/or increasing exercise, debunking "quick fixes."

The article explains that companies promote these products not to educate consumers, but to make money by encouraging belief in miracle cures. Forness's book aims to equip readers with the tools to make informed health choices.

REALLity Check by David Bloomberg

This column by David Bloomberg reviews three articles from a U.S. News & World Report special edition. The first article discussed is on alternative medicine, noting the rise of "Centers for Complementary Medicine" within hospitals. While acknowledging that some physicians believe these practices can help patients, Bloomberg points out that many alternative therapies lack rigorous study and their perceived benefits might be due to the placebo effect. He also notes that while hospital bureaucracies often resist integrating alternative medicine, this could change as more universities incorporate it into their programs.

The second and third articles covered are on evolution and creationism/Intelligent Design (ID). Bloomberg finds the main article on evolution to be well-written, emphasizing that evolution is a fundamental fact of biology, not just a theory. He addresses common creationist arguments, such as the "half an eye" problem and the idea that organisms are too perfect to arise by chance, refuting them with scientific explanations. He also discusses how single gene mutations can have significant effects, citing examples of mice with wrinkled cerebral cortices.

Bloomberg is critical of the article on "Intelligent Design," finding it less effective than the main evolution piece. He argues that the media often presents the ID debate as a "he said/she said" article, failing to emphasize that science is based on evidence, not public opinion polls. He concludes that ID proponents are still lacking in scientific evidence, regardless of public belief.

From the Chairman by David Bloomberg

David Bloomberg, REALL Chairman, discusses upcoming REALL meetings and events. The August meeting was canceled due to scheduling conflicts and a desire for better weather, with plans to reschedule the picnic for late September or early October. A September meeting is planned featuring Professor Karen Bartelt discussing the Intelligent Design movement. Bloomberg notes that they are taking steps to prevent disruptions from creationists, referencing a past incident with Professor Malcolm Levin.

New Board Member

Mike Henebry is introduced as a new member of the REALL Board. His background includes extensive experience as an environmental scientist and assistant professor, with degrees in biology and environmental toxicology. His concern about pseudoscience in the media motivated his membership in REALL.

A Nod to Our Patrons

A list of REALL patron members is provided, thanking them for their support.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, the importance of critical thinking and scientific literacy, and the defense of established scientific principles against pseudoscience and misinformation. The editorial stance of The REALL News is clearly pro-science, pro-rationality, and critical of claims lacking empirical evidence or scientific rigor. The newsletter actively promotes critical examination of topics ranging from debunking skepticism itself to medical claims and the evolution vs. creationism debate.