Shadow of a Doubt - 2001 10

Magazine Overview

Title: Shadow of A Doubt
Issue: October 2001
Volume: 15th year of programs (1987-2002)
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the National Capital Area Skeptics' monthly calendar, 'Shadow of A Doubt,' for October 2001, focuses on upcoming lectures, events, and articles relevant to skeptical inquiry. The publication covers a range of topics from media criticism and scientific controversies to alternative health and pseudoscience.

Featured Events and Articles

David Murray on Media and Reality

Dr. David Murray, Director of Research for the Statistical Assessment Service (STATS), is featured discussing his book, "It Ain't Necessarily So: How Media Make and Unmake the Scientific Picture of Reality." A talk and book signing were scheduled for Saturday, October 27th, from 2pm to 3:30pm at the Twinbrook Library in Rockville. The book's introduction is quoted, emphasizing the vulnerability to misunderstanding caused by media and the risk of misdiagnosing the modern world. The first chapter of his book is available online.

Childhood Vaccine Controversy

Scheduled for Saturday, November 10th, from 10:30am to 12:30pm at the Twinbrook Library, Arthur Allen, a freelance writer for publications like The Washington Post and Salon.com, will discuss the controversies surrounding childhood vaccine safety. His talk will cover scientific issues, as well as the motivations and historical role of anti-vaccine activists in America. This lecture was rescheduled from March 2001.

Free Energy Device Lecture

Dennis Lee, who lectures on promoting a free energy device, was scheduled to speak at the University of Maryland on November 12th. The article provides a link to the Philadelphia Skeptics organization (PHACT) for a skeptical view of Lee's devices. Lee's message is quoted, stating their goal is to achieve non-polluting energy sources, acknowledging setbacks and opposition.

Computer Wellness and New-Age Treatments

An article directs readers to the Institute of Holistic Computer Wellness website for "computer homeopathy and other new-age treatments" for sluggish computer performance.

Astrology in Higher Education

"Learning with the Stars" by Mark D. Fefer, from The Seattle Weekly, discusses Kepler College of Astrological Arts and Sciences, described as the first institution of higher learning in North America authorized to offer degrees in astrology. The college received authorization from the Washington state Higher Education Coordinating Board and primarily operates as a distance learning program, with students gathering in Seattle for symposia. The article provides contact information for the Washington Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Membership and Renewal Information

NCAS reminds members about a "Last Chance to Renew" at 1987 rates. Renewal fees are $20 for a single person and $30 for a two-member household. The organization has maintained its membership fees since its founding in 1987 but notes that costs have increased. Beginning the following month, rates were set to rise by $10 per year. Contact information for NCAS, including a P.O. Box in Silver Spring, Maryland, a telephone number, email address, and website, is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical thinking, scientific literacy, and the examination of pseudoscientific claims and controversial topics. The National Capital Area Skeptics, as indicated by its name and the content, promotes a skeptical approach to information, encouraging critical evaluation of media, health claims (like vaccines), and unconventional theories (like free energy and astrology). The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and scientific understanding, as evidenced by the featured articles and the organization's mission statement.