British and Irish Skeptic - 1987 - Vol 1 No 6

Magazine Overview

Title: The British & Irish SKEPTIC
Issue: Volume I, No. 6
Date: November/December 1987
Publisher: The British & Irish Skeptic
Country: Ireland
Language: English

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic delves into various pseudoscientific claims and phenomena, offering a critical and evidence-based perspective. The cover highlights several key articles, including investigations into the Loch Ness Monster ('Nessie Hunt'), the biblical story of Noah's Ark, the debate surrounding Creationism in Australia, the practices of magicians, mediums, and psychics, the 'Royal Nonesuch' of parapsychology, and the broader distinction between science and pseudoscience.

Articles

Special Report: Nessie Hunt

Steuart Campbell reports on Operation Deepscan, a large-scale sonar sweep of Loch Ness conducted from October 9th to 11th, 1987. The operation, designed by Tony Harmsworth, involved twenty out-of-season cabin cruisers equipped with sonar. While there were reports of contacts, they were unclear, with some possibly being debris or ephemeral echoes. The operation did not find evidence of the Loch Ness Monster, nor the remains of John Cobb's speedboat. Skeptics, like Campbell, had already concluded there was no Nessie, and Operation Deepscan did not alter this view. Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, the local tourist board believed the event would still attract visitors.

From the Editor

Wendy M. Grossman expresses gratitude to contributors of articles, clippings, time, tapes, and money, highlighting individuals like Peter O'Hara for managing finances and printing, Toby Howard for his column and energy, and others for sending newspaper clippings and tapes. She also thanks Martin Bridgstock for co-organizing a meeting. Grossman explains the magazine's policy on orthography, retaining authors' national styles (e.g., 'skeptic' vs. 'sceptic') to reflect diverse origins. She also states that all correspondence is considered fair game for quotation and publication unless explicitly marked private.

David Batters Goliath: Australian Skeptics and Creation 'Science'

Martin Bridgstock discusses the challenges faced by skeptics in Australia when confronting the claims of creation 'science'. The article likely examines the arguments and tactics used by creationists and the responses from the Australian skeptical community.

Noah's Ark Founders on the Facts

Stephen Moreton's article likely scrutinizes the factual basis and scientific plausibility of the Noah's Ark narrative, presenting evidence that challenges its literal interpretation.

Magicians, Mediums & Psychics

David Alexander explores the world of stage magic, psychic phenomena, and mediums, likely distinguishing between genuine trickery and purported supernatural abilities. The article may investigate common techniques used by performers and the psychology behind belief in psychic powers.

PREDICTIONS 1988

This section likely presents forecasts or predictions for the year 1988, possibly from astrological or other pseudoscientific sources, which the magazine would then critically analyze.

Science vs. Pseudoscience: Part Two: The Nature of Pseudoscience

Peter O'Hara continues his discussion on the demarcation between science and pseudoscience. This part likely focuses on defining the characteristics of pseudoscience, its methods, and its appeal, contrasting it with the rigorous approach of scientific inquiry.

The 'Royal Nonesuch' of Parapsychology

H. B. Gibson examines a specific case or phenomenon within parapsychology, possibly highlighting its dubious nature or lack of credible evidence, using the term 'Royal Nonesuch' to imply a grand but ultimately empty claim.

Departments

Hits & Misses

This section features a 'Correspondents' segment where the magazine exchanges publications with other skeptical groups globally. Toby Howard writes about his experience at a 'Psychics and Mystics Fair' in Manchester, noting the booming business and the £6 fee for short sessions. He observes a lack of genuine paranormal activity and recounts an instance where a tarot reader made contradictory predictions. Upcoming dates for similar fairs are listed. The 'Faith-Vets' subsection discusses a faith-healing experiment with sick horses, reported in the New Scientist, which involved testing radionics for controlling intestinal parasites. Professor Lawson Soulsby of Cambridge University was investigating this treatment.

Spirits on the Dole

This brief report from The Guardian mentions a Mr Peter Froude from Bournemouth receiving £40 a week under the Enterprise Allowance Scheme to 'do psychic creative writing,' claiming spirits are writing a novel through him via automatic writing.

Cryogenics

The London Evening News reported that for £125,000, one can be put to sleep, frozen, and sent to LA for storage until future medical advancements. The article mentions Alcor, the LA company, and its British agent, Garratt Smith.

ASSAP

Paul Quincey inquired about ASSAP (The Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena). The magazine provides details, stating ASSAP was founded in 1980/1 by Hilary Evans and others. Its objectives include collecting and disseminating information on unexplained phenomena, encouraging research, and providing resources. ASSAP publishes a journal called 'Anomaly,' which features articles on poltergeist cases, ESP, dreams, and hauntings.

Mystic Stone-Update

This update follows up on a previous complaint about a mystic stone advertisement that claimed the stone would bring money, luck, and love. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) upheld the complaint, finding the advertiser failed to substantiate their claims. The advertiser was requested to remove the references, and their new advertisement is more moderate.

European Report

This section details the activities of skeptical groups across Europe.

• Germany: The German group officially changed its name to Gesellschaft für die wissenschaftliche Untersuchung von Parawissenschaften (GWUP), meaning 'Society for the Scientific Investigation of Para-science.' The article lists the newly elected board members and reports on the contents of their newsletter, 'Der Skeptiker.' They also mention CENAP, a West German group focused on aerial phenomena, and their request for information to form a worldwide contra-UFO network.
• The Netherlands: Representatives from Free Inquiry/Skeptical Inquirer attended the IHEU Conference in Utrecht, where the new Dutch Committee was founded. Professor Dr Cees de Jager, an astronomer, was elected Chairman, and Bert van Geider, a sociologist, became secretary.
• Spain: The Spanish association 'Alternativa Racional' (ARP) is highlighted for its efforts to promote skeptical literature in Spanish. The current issue of their publication, 'La Alternativa Racional,' includes articles on the 'Myth of the Universal Flood,' the 'Extraterrestrial Hypothesis,' and 'Paranormal Phenomena.' A poll indicated that 57% of Spaniards believed in creationism, with differences noted based on religiosity and educational level.

Swiss UFO

This report discusses a UFO cover story in the News of the World featuring Swiss citizen Eduard Meier. Conradin Beeii, the Swiss Convenor, notes his opinion on Meier has been published previously. Meier is promoting a book about his experiences, and the article mentions claims of a piece of metal from an alien spacecraft, analyzed by scientist Marcel Vogel, being made of elements bonded with advanced technology. It's also stated that aliens from the Pleiades telepathically retrieved the metal.

Chartsearch

Ernest Jackson writes about a firm called 'Chartsearch' that offers an 'Astrological Stockmarket & Gold Forecast.' The firm claims accuracy for its 1987 forecast and states the 1988 forecast is strictly limited. Jackson notes concerns about the firm's refusal to allow checking of the 1987 report, the anonymity of astrologers, and the short return period for the 1988 forecast, which might expire before the year begins.

Geller Close-Up

Toby Howard recounts his experience meeting Uri Geller at a press preview for Karl Sabbagh's documentary. Geller spoke about his belief in the paranormal and his success in dowsing for oil and gold. He performed a spoon-bending trick, employing 'first' misdirection by engaging the press and Karl Sabbagh. Geller also announced experiments to influence the AIDS virus, reacting indignantly when questioned about dedicating his life to such work if successful.

E-MAIL

A skeptics' e-mail network has been established, coordinated by Toby Howard (UK/Europe) and Jim Lippard (USA/Canada), with specific addresses provided for submissions and administrative requests.

Name This Newsletter Contest

The editorial board decided to retain the name 'The British & Irish Skeptic' and chose the subhead 'A Publication Dedicated to Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal.' They also confirmed the spelling 'skeptic' with a 'k'.

Irish Committee

Jacqueline Helme reports on the first meeting of the Irish Committee in Dublin. The members discussed topics including weeping statues, hauntings, flying saucers, astrology, and unorthodox healers. They agreed to approach sensitive beliefs with care, focusing on isolated phenomena. The committee also discussed publicizing their activities to increase membership and attract experts, and planned a public meeting with Karl Sabbagh.

Newman's Perpetual Car

This section reports on Joseph Newman's attempt to patent his electric motor globally. Newman theorizes a unified field theory to explain the universe and his motor. Physicists like Al Hibbs find his theories nonsensical, and his motor appears to be a perpetual motion machine. Newman is suing the US Patent and Trademark Office for refusing his application.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims and paranormal phenomena through a skeptical lens. The magazine consistently advocates for scientific methodology, evidence-based reasoning, and a rational approach to understanding the world. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting skepticism and challenging unsubstantiated beliefs, while also aiming to be inclusive and avoid unnecessary offense to religious or personal beliefs. The magazine actively engages with and reports on the activities of skeptical organizations worldwide, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among like-minded individuals.

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, dated November/December 1987, is identified by volume 11 and carries a cover price of 1.50. The main cover headline is "IN PROGRESS." The magazine focuses on skepticism, pseudoscience, and critical examination of paranormal claims.

Predictions for 1988

The issue begins with a section on "PREDICTIONS" and an "ASTROLOGY SURVEY." The Australian Skeptic previously conducted a survey, and Philip McKerracher is undertaking a similar one for this publication, focusing on January 1st predictions. The magazine reprints a sample prediction from Old Moore's Almanac for January, detailing expected economic and political trends. It also mentions newspaper cuttings with predictions, including those from the "X-Ray" couple (Anne and Peter Owen) about missing persons, and clairvoyant Stephen Alexander's prediction of Jeffrey Archer becoming Prime Minister. Brenda Elliot is cited for predicting Princess Diana's kidnapping, and "top American mediums" are quoted predicting a secret holiday for Princess Diana and Prince Andrew. A reader, J.A. Remfry, humorously asks if the most accurate predictor wins a prize.

Following this, the magazine presents predictions for 1988 from various individuals:

• Karl Sabbagh offers a poetic, cryptic set of predictions covering economic recovery, royal events, natural disasters, and political shifts.
• Wendy Grossman predicts a US stock market recovery, a British Royal pregnancy, Martina Navratilova regaining her tennis ranking, a paranormal stunt by The Sun, Mario Cuomo's election as US President, the privatization of the BBC, civil unrest in Scotland over a poll tax, a peace stride in Northern Ireland, a political scandal costing millions, and reaching two hundred subscribers to The British & Irish Skeptic.
• Andrew Tomlinson predicts the failure of a major structure, the death of a major entertainment figure, a British Royal Family member's hospital admission, a food toxin causing emergency measures, a tragedy at a sporting event, the discovery of a forged artwork, a popular daily paper ceasing publication, scientific breakthroughs in genetics and planetary evolution, adverse weather affecting the US East Coast, and a major scandal for the White House.
• Madawc Williams predicts Ronald Reagan will not die in office, the next US President will be a white male Republican whose name starts with A-J, the Tories will poll 45-50%, Charles Haughey will remain Irish Prime Minister, a new Quark will be discovered, the Gulf War will end, long-range nuclear missiles will be halved, regulations to protect the Ozone layer will be introduced, and big-time psychics will continue to earn excessive amounts.

Australian Skeptics vs. Creation 'Science'

Martin Bridgstock, a sociologist, details the Australian Skeptics' successful campaign against Creation Science, particularly in Queensland. He describes Creation Science as a belief system rooted in the Fundamentalist movement, arguing for a literal interpretation of the Bible, including a 6000-year-old Earth and a global flood. The Brisbane-based Creation Science Foundation had significant turnover and employed staff, distributing magazines to schools. The Skeptics investigated the Foundation's finances, discovering significant losses from "failed investments" that were not disclosed to supporters. This information was integrated into a book co-edited by Bridgstock and Ken Smith. The campaign involved public meetings and media efforts, leading to the Education Minister backing away from Creation Science and three directors resigning. The movement also faced setbacks in the USA due to court cases violating the separation of church and state.

Noah's Ark: Founders on the Facts

Stephen Moreton examines the Creationist theory of Noah's Flood, arguing it is easily disproven. He addresses the claim of a 6000-year-old Earth and a global flood in 2348 B.C., contrasting it with historical and archaeological evidence. Moreton critiques the idea of a water-vapour canopy, the disruption by a meteorite, and the formation of mountains. He dismisses the "evidence" of fossil graveyards and flood myths, explaining them through local floods and the prevalence of civilizations in flood-prone areas. Moreton highlights that the geological record shows no evidence of a worldwide flood, and that Creationists interpret the entire geological record as the flood itself. He points out inconsistencies with the fossil record, such as the placement of whales and corals, and the simultaneous existence of organisms adapted to different climates. He also questions the logistics of the Ark, including housing millions of species, providing food (like bamboo for pandas), and surviving diseases. Furthermore, he notes that lake varves, dated by carbon-14, show continuous deposition without a break around 2348 B.C., contradicting the flood narrative.

Magicians, Mediums & Psychics

David Alexander, a professional magician and private investigator, explores the methods used by mediums in séance rooms. He emphasizes the importance of the sitter's mental state and the séance setting, noting that sitters are often primed to believe in spiritual phenomena. Séances typically occur in darkness or dim light, and a "cabinet" (a curtained-off area) is used. Alexander explains that the cabinet is presented as a chamber for psychic force and ectoplasm, but is actually where the medium performs tricks. He describes how mediums, with the help of a "cabinet attendant" (who acts as a bodyguard and accomplice), use luminous chiffon and other props to create the illusion of materialized spirits. Apportation (bringing objects into the séance room) is also discussed, along with methods for producing "spirit voices" using trumpets and hidden megaphones. Alexander recounts the "Great Camp Chesterfield Exposé" of 1960, where infrared cameras revealed mediums entering through a hidden door, debunking claims of ectoplasm materialization.

Science vs. Pseudoscience

Peter O'Hara, a clinical psychiatrist, continues his series on the nature of pseudoscience. He defines pseudoscience as something that presents itself as science but lacks essential characteristics. These characteristics include: 1) providing a general statement, 2) having evidence in favor, 3) a method to reduce error and obtain evidence, and 4) a claim framed in a way that it is conceivable to be disproven (refutability). O'Hara contrasts Newton's theory of gravitation, which meets these criteria, with newspaper astrology, which lacks the third characteristic (contradictory evidence is abundant) and the fourth (any outcome is consistent with its claims). Classical star-sign astrology is also discussed as refutable but contradicted by tests. The article classifies pseudosciences based on which characteristics they lack, noting that some are irrefutable by design, while others have refutable hypotheses but lack sufficient evidence or have abundant contradictory evidence. Examples include creationism, UFOlogy, and dowsing. The article concludes by stating that the next installment will provide clues to suspect pseudoscience and discuss the term "paranormal."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for scientific rationality and critical thinking, consistently debunking paranormal claims and pseudoscientific theories. The magazine's stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to expose fraudulent practices and flawed reasoning, particularly in areas like astrology, mediumship, and creationism. The editorial tone is informative and analytical, providing detailed arguments and evidence to support its critical assessments. The recurring theme is the importance of empirical evidence, testability, and logical consistency in distinguishing genuine science from its imposters.

Title: The British & Irish Skeptic
Issue: November/December 1987
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic delves into a variety of topics, primarily focusing on skepticism towards paranormal claims, psychic phenomena, and dubious predictions. It features a collection of predictions for the upcoming year, critical reviews of paranormal research and media portrayals, and discussions on the nature of belief and deception.

Predictions for 1988

The magazine presents several lists of predictions from different individuals:

• J. Alan Remfry offers a list of 10 predictions covering events in Britain, including political assassinations, natural disasters, royal events, and scientific discoveries.
• Chris Parker provides 10 predictions related to media and societal trends, such as UFO headlines, the absence of scientific evidence for extraterrestrials, royal marriage issues, economic recession, and progress towards world peace.
• Frank Chambers lists 10 bold predictions, including a significant rise in gold prices, the peaceful death of Ronald Reagan, a dramatic event involving the Loch Ness Monster, California falling into the sea, and the United States being purchased by Japan.
• Charles Miller offers 10 geopolitical and economic predictions, including an assassination attempt on Gorbachev, political opportunities for Jackson, new gold and oil strikes in Ireland, and continued conflict in the Iran/Iraq war.
• Ernest Jackson presents 10 negative predictions, focusing on the absence of extraordinary events like flying saucers landing in public places or the discovery of Atlantis, and highlighting the persistence of fraud and psychological manipulation.

Articles and Reviews

'A LOAD OF MERLIN' by Madawc Williams

This article examines the legend of Merlin, tracing the name's origin and evolution. Williams argues that 'Merlin' is likely a Norman invention, adapted from the Welsh magician 'Myrddin', and that the figure as commonly perceived is a fictional construct, no more historically real than Batman.

'THE ROYAL NONESUCH' of PARAPSYCHOLOGY by H. B. Gibson

H. B. Gibson uses Mark Twain's story of 'The King's Camelopard' as an analogy for parapsychological research. He suggests that the field is driven by a human tendency to seek value for invested effort, even when misled, and that fraud and self-deception are prevalent. Gibson criticizes the field for its lack of genuine progress and the fostering of suspicion.

'WAS ANYBODY THERE?' - Reviews of a Channel 4 Broadcast

Two contrasting reviews are presented for a television program titled 'Is There Anybody There?', produced by Karl Sabbagh and presented by Nicholas Humphrey.

• Leslie Shepard acknowledges the program's importance as a skeptical presentation of the paranormal but criticizes its biased stance in favor of materialism and selective treatment of evidence. Shepard questions Humphrey's credentials and approach, and points out factual errors in the program's references to historical figures like D.D. Home and the Fox sisters.
• The review also touches upon the program's superficial coverage of channeling and the Ballinspittle moving statue incident, suggesting a lack of depth and tact in its debunking efforts.

'SKEPTICS in the NEWS'

This section reports on the emergence of skeptical organizations, such as 'The Irish Sceptics', which aim to critically examine paranormal claims. It highlights the formation of such groups in response to widespread belief in phenomena like moving statues and psychic powers, and notes the media's role in both promoting and debunking these claims.

Toby Howard's 'PSYCHIC DIARY'

Toby Howard reviews various psychic products and services available in local shops, including lucky charms, astrological phone lines, and crystal healing. He questions the ethics of promising good fortune and highlights how charlatans can exploit people's distress. Howard also discusses the controversy surrounding Ian Wilson's book on Doris Stokes and the claims of spiritualist mediums.

Other Mentions

• Media Coverage: The issue notes various media reports on paranormal topics, including controversies surrounding alternative medicine in Ireland, the late Doris Stokes, hypnotism, and alleged UFO sightings.
• Books: Biographies of L. Ron Hubbard and Ian Wilson's 'The After Death Experience' are mentioned.
• Organizations: The formation and activities of skeptical organizations like CSICOP and The Irish Sceptics are discussed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is a strong emphasis on skepticism and critical thinking regarding paranormal claims. The magazine consistently questions the validity of psychic phenomena, UFO sightings, and pseudoscientific theories, often highlighting instances of fraud, self-deception, and flawed methodology. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and a scientific approach, advocating for the debunking of unsubstantiated beliefs and the protection of the public from exploitation by fraudulent practitioners. The issue champions the role of skeptics in challenging extraordinary claims and promoting a more rational understanding of the world.

Title: The British & Irish Skeptic
Issue: November/December 1987
Volume: Vol. I
Publisher: The British & Irish Skeptic
Country: Ireland
Language: English

Program Critique: 'Is There Anybody There?'

The issue begins with a detailed critique of a 90-minute television program on the paranormal, presented by Nicholas Humphrey. The reviewer, Lewis Jones, expresses significant dissatisfaction with the program's approach, labeling it "tendentious" and "seriously flawed by its prejudice."

Criticisms of Humphrey's Presentation:

• Misuse of Sources: The program is accused of presenting subjects like Yeats and the occult picturesquely without deep examination, and of taking quotations out of context (e.g., W.H. Auden). Newton's beliefs and Sir Thomas Browne's philosophical points were also, according to the reviewer, misinterpreted.
• Interpretation of Newton and Browne: Humphrey's interpretation of Newton's 'worlds within us' as referring to imagination, and Browne's point as a philosophical one better suited to Bishop Berkeley's Idealism, is questioned.
• Rupert Sheldrake: Sheldrake, a biochemist, was allowed to make a statement but it was then interpreted and refuted by Humphrey without giving Sheldrake a chance to respond.
• The Knock Apparitions: The reviewer's main criticism is directed at Humphrey's speculative theory of fraud regarding the 19th-century apparitions at Knock, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Humphrey suggested the parish priest, Archdeacon Cavanagh, bought a magic lantern and projected images onto the church gable. The reviewer finds this theory "preposterous," "utterly out of character," and implausible, citing the logistical difficulties and the social context of the time.
• Simplistic Fallacies: The program is criticized for perpetuating the fallacy that because a stage magician can duplicate paranormal phenomena, the paranormal must be fraud or illusion.
• Lack of Balance: The program is described as having "some worthwhile and stimulating material" but being "seriously flawed by its prejudice." The most acceptable statements were from both the skeptic Carl Sagan and the believer Kathleen Raine, who shared common ground in their humane and sensitive approaches.

Other Program Content:

• Yeats and the Occult: Used as an introduction to the theme of science versus poetry.
• Newton's Beliefs: Used to discuss 'worlds within us'.
• Doris Stokes: Mentioned as an example of the "spirit-message racket" and "Victorian spiritualism in a new guise."
• Daniel Home: His claim of levitation was highlighted with crude animation, ignoring the fact that his performances took place in dark rooms under uncontrolled conditions with anecdotal evidence.
• Enfield Poltergeist: The program presented the case, mentioning Maurice Grosse and Guy Lyon Playfair's investigation, but the reviewer notes that claims of objective recording were unsupported by the visuals.
• Ballinspittle Statue: The program showed a statue reported to move, attributing it to the autokinetic effect and Humphrey's idea that "It's our imagination that's furnishing the paranormal world."

History of the Paranormal and Fraud

The issue reminds readers that the history of the paranormal is "riddled with fraud, both confessed and unconfessed," citing examples like the Fox sisters, the Cottingley fairies, and the alleged manipulation of data by J.B. Rhine's colleague, S.G. Soal.

Ray Hyman's '5 Basics for Gaining a Reputation as a Seer'

Psychologist Ray Hyman's demonstration of how to gain a reputation as a seer is highlighted as an enjoyable moment. His five basics are:

1. Get the cooperation of the subject.
2. Use commonplace information.
3. Flatter.
4. Exploit the subject's reactions.
5. Pretend to know more than you do.

Public Opinion on the Paranormal

A commissioned opinion poll revealed that almost 9 out of 10 people believe in at least one paranormal phenomenon (telepathy, ghosts, dreams, reincarnation, messages from the dead).

Carl Sagan's Perspective

Carl Sagan is presented as steering the program back to the issue. He found no evidence for a spirit world but objected to "entrepreneurs who prey upon people who are vulnerable on this issue," calling it a "scam."

Book Review: 'Extrasensory Deception' by Henry Gordon

Frank Chambers reviews Henry Gordon's book, which is a collection of essays debunking paranormal claims. Gordon, a magician and debunker, covers subjects like spiritualism, UFOs, and psychic surgery. The reviewer notes that Gordon uses humor and sarcasm, but sometimes appeals to emotion rather than providing proof. The book is recommended for those who have been "trapped into unquestioning belief" in various pseudoscientific claims.

Book Review: 'The Evolution of Man' by Colin Wood

Lewis Jones reviews Colin Wood's hypothesis, originally published in Mensa Magazine, which suggests that modern man did not evolve but sprang into existence fully formed around the world at the end of the last ice age, created by a higher intelligence. Wood's theory posits that this was done to establish a global 'crop' of human beings for 'mental potential.' Jones dismisses Wood's ideas as "bizarre" and lacking evidence, placing him firmly with the Creationists.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters are included:

• Nick Pope submits his 10 predictions for 1988, noting that amateur skeptics may lack the resources of professional psychics.
• Andrew Tomlinson comments on the "Nessie hunt outcome," suggesting a shift in narrative from "Nessie the Monster" to "Nessie the very large fish."
• Stephen Moreton provides details about the location of "Ballinderris" in relation to the Knock apparitions, clarifying his previous remarks.
• Steuart Campbell responds to criticism of his astronomical explanation for the Knock 'apparition,' defending his hypothesis and addressing comments from John C. Brown.
• Leslie Shepard is mentioned as being confused about the Knock apparitions.

Astronomical Explanations for Knock:

Steuart Campbell's hypothesis for the Knock apparitions involves astronomical bodies like Jupiter and Saturn, and their reflections. He discusses the visibility of Jupiter's moon Ganymede and the possibility of mirages. He also addresses the idea that the "Star of Bethlehem" was not Venus but mythical.

Other Astronomical Observations:

• On January 6, 1880, a row of lights was seen by Miss Anderson and others, possibly mistaken astronomical bodies or their reflections.
• On February 2/3, 1880, Miss Anderson reported seeing lights.
• On February 10, 1880, John McCloskey saw a light or bright cloud.

Subsequent Reports and Modifications:

Subsequent reports suggest a modification to the astronomical hypothesis, proposing that witnesses might have been looking at a reflection of Jupiter on the church wall. The reflectivity of the wall and the possibility of it being altered are raised.

Cover Story: 'Seers saw nothing'

The cover story, by an unnamed author, discusses the unreliability of predictions made by psychics and astrologers. It notes that "Old Moore's Almanac" admitted to being "a little bit out" in its predictions regarding the stock market crash. Olivia Robertson of the Fellowship of Isis is quoted as seeing financial empires crashing and a coming "golden age."

Article: 'How stars tell City fortunes'

This article profiles David Pallant, a financial analyst who uses astrology (Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus) to forecast stock market movements. Pallant claims his "Astrotrade" predictions have been successful, even predicting the collapse of gold and silver prices in 1983 and the FT 100 breakout in January. He charges a minimum of £1,000 per quarterly prediction and offers a gloomy prediction of a market crash comparable to 1929 for late 1988/early 1989.

Article: 'EYE OF THE STORM'

This piece discusses a conflict within the field of iridology, the practice of diagnosing ailments by examining the iris. A breakaway movement led by Mrs Farida Davidson claims the iris holds psychological as well as physiological secrets, a view not accepted by all iridologists or conventional medicine.

Back Issues and Subscription Information

The magazine provides details on how to subscribe and purchase back issues, listing the contents of previous volumes and issues, which cover a wide range of paranormal and skeptical topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, the examination of evidence (or lack thereof), the prevalence of fraud and misinterpretation in the history of the paranormal, and the critique of media presentations that lack balance or scientific rigor. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting critical thinking, demanding evidence, and debunking pseudoscientific assertions, while acknowledging the human tendency to believe in the extraordinary. The magazine aims to investigate the paranormal from a skeptical perspective, covering UFOs, ghosts, faith healing, and other phenomena.

This document is a page from the Archives for the Unexplained (AFU), providing information about their digitization project and how the public can contribute. The project has been running since 2010, aiming to share donated and deposited files with the public.

Support and Donations

The AFU foundation encourages individuals to support their work through monetary donations, either as single or regular contributions. Additionally, they welcome donations of files for future preservation at their archival centre. This highlights AFU's commitment to building a comprehensive archive of unexplained phenomena-related materials.

Contact and Financial Information

The document provides detailed contact and financial information for AFU. The organization is based in Norrkoping, Sweden, with a postal address: PO Box 11027, 600 11 Norrkoping, Sweden. Their website is www.afu.se. For financial transactions, they offer several methods:

• Paypal: [email protected]
• IBAN: SE59 9500 0099 6042 0490 7143
• BIC: NDEASESS (associated with Nordea/Plusgirot, Stockholm)
• Swish: 123 585 43 69 (for Sweden only)

This comprehensive set of payment options facilitates easy contributions from a wide range of supporters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this document is the archival and preservation of information related to unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance is one of openness and public engagement, actively seeking contributions and support to maintain and expand their collection. The emphasis on digitization and sharing underscores a mission to make these archives accessible.