Shadow of a Doubt

Magazine Overview

Title: Shadow of a Doubt
Issue: June, 1996
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Featured Lecture: KARATE: Reality versus Hollywood

This issue prominently features an upcoming lecture by Ed Garrasi, Sensei, titled "KARATE: Reality versus Hollywood." The lecture aims to clarify the concept of karate, distinguishing between traditional practice and its often-misrepresented Hollywood depiction. Garrasi will examine how Eastern concepts like 'chi' and 'acupuncture' are sometimes dismissed as pseudoscience by Westerners. The presentation will focus on the differences between traditional karate, self-defense, and cinematic portrayals, exploring how "magical thinking, common misconceptions, qualified reciprocation and systemic inbreeding" have led to a general misinterpretation. The lecture will also delve into "high-investment, low-yield techniques" and "preconceived scripts and forms that fail to evolve," aiming to help the audience discern between authentic self-defense and delusion.

The lecture is scheduled for Saturday, June 15, 1996, from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm at the Bethesda Library, located at 7400 Arlington Road, Bethesda, Maryland. Admission is free, and all are welcome, including members and non-members. For further information, attendees can call the NCAS Skeptic Line at 301-587-3827.

NCAS 1996-97 Schedule

This issue marks the last newsletter of the 1995-96 year, with the NCAS taking a summer break. The NCAS Board is actively planning the fall schedule, which is set to commence on September 21. The newsletter provides the full schedule for the 1996-97 programs, all of which will be held at the Bethesda Branch of the Montgomery County Library, 7400 Arlington Road. Meetings are scheduled to begin at 2 pm and last approximately one and a half hours. The listed dates are:

• September 21, 1996
• October 19, 1996
• November 16, 1996
• December 21, 1996
• January 18, 1997
• February 15, 1997
• March 22, 1997
• April 19, 1997
• May 17, 1997
• June 21, 1997

All scheduled meetings are on Saturdays.

CSICOP Skeptical Library

The newsletter also includes information about the CSICOP Skeptical Library, described as the "finest library of skeptical materials on the paranormal in the world." This collection is part of the Center for Inquiry's library and is under the direction of Dr. Gordon Stein. Dr. Stein has been actively collecting material from used bookstores across the country. The NCAS is soliciting donations to help fill gaps in their collection of journals and books. They welcome contributions of any material, whether pro or con, including paperbacks, but explicitly exclude science fiction or other types of fiction. Donors will receive a valuation for income tax purposes, as CSICOP is a registered 501(C)-3 charitable organization. Interested individuals are asked to write to Dr. Stein at the Center for Inquiry, 3965 Rensch Road, Amherst, NY 14228, with a brief description of the intended donation.

Editorial Stance and Communication

The newsletter concludes with a message encouraging readers to enjoy their summer break and announcing that the next issue will be available in September. It also highlights that "late breaking news is always distributed by email to NCAS members." Members with an email account are encouraged to provide their address to [email protected] to ensure they receive timely updates.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism, critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscience, as exemplified by the lecture on karate. The NCAS positions itself as an organization dedicated to providing accurate information and fostering a rational understanding of various phenomena. The emphasis on email communication for "late breaking news" suggests a commitment to keeping members informed in a timely manner. The promotion of the CSICOP Skeptical Library further underscores the organization's dedication to promoting skeptical inquiry and providing resources for research.