British and Irish Skeptic - 1990 - Vol 4 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: The British & Irish SKEPTIC
Issue: Volume IV, No. 2
Date: March/April 1990
Publisher: The British & Irish Skeptic
Country: UK
ISSN: 0955-6575
Price: £1.50 (IR£1.70)

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, a publication dedicated to the scientific investigation of claims of the paranormal, features a range of articles scrutinizing various phenomena and beliefs. The cover highlights topics such as 'Gullibility and the Appliance of Science,' 'A Skeptical Look at Crop Circles,' 'What a Coincidence!', 'UFOs over Russia,' 'The World of the Para-thinker,' and 'Tabloid Madness.'

Contents and Articles

Hits and Misses (Page 4)

A Matter of Gravity by Steve Donnelly:
This article discusses a paper published in Physical Review Letters by Japanese scientists Hideo Hayasaka and Sakae Takeuchi, reporting anomalous weight reduction on a gyroscope spinning clockwise. The effect, measured in milligrams, was not explained by usual theories. The article notes that while the paper was published without editorial comment, other researchers suggest electromagnetic interactions or other mundane explanations. American researchers reportedly failed to replicate the effect. The author speculates that this might only work in Japan and mentions Sandy Kidd, an inventor whose antigravity machine was reported in tabloids.

Marilyn and Elvis:
This section humorously recounts tabloid reports of Marilyn Monroe being alive and working as a nanny in Portadown, Northern Ireland, and Elvis Presley being alive and well in heaven, as reported by The Sun after a séance. The article contrasts these with the categorical statement from Elvis himself that he died.

Nothing Acts Faster than Homeopathy (Page 5)

This article discusses a proposal to integrate homeopathy into the UK's National Health Service, citing a study by Dr. Jeremy Swayne that suggests potential cost savings of £69 million per annum. The average expenditure per patient for homeopathic remedies was 92p compared to £4.61 for conventional remedies. The article sarcastically suggests extending this principle to other areas, like telepathy for British Telecom.

Dead Wrong:
This piece critiques mediums, recounting a story from the News of the World about psychic Lee Everett describing her deceased friend as a 'drunken, dope-taking nymphomaniac who died of a drugs overdose.' The friend, Michelle Anderson, was, in fact, alive and well and denied these claims.

Murdoch's Stars:
An item from the Melbourne Age suggests that Rupert Murdoch's (British) Sun newspaper's use of nude photographs might be influenced by his belief in astrology. Sir Larry Lamb, the Sun's first editor, is quoted as saying Murdoch had 'a thing about the stars,' implying that astrological forecasts influenced decisions about page 3 content.

Abominable Hoaxer:
This section discusses the myth of the yeti, or abominable snowman, referencing mountaineer Eric Shipton's 1951 discovery of tracks on a Himalayan glacier. The article casts doubt on the authenticity of Shipton's claims, citing an article in the Sunday Times magazine by Peter Gillman, which suggests Shipton was 'economical with the truth' and may have faked or 'tidied up' the prints. It also mentions a suggestion that yeti hunters should be 'placed in cork buckets.'

Is Geller Bent? (Page 6)

This article addresses the hostility towards Uri Geller, particularly from magicians. It refers to a television appearance where Geller claimed to have stopped Big Ben via a faxed request and his subsequent actions. The author presents three possible conclusions: Geller stopped Big Ben paranormally, he genuinely believes he did but was mistaken, or he lied to enhance his career. The article concludes that until Geller stops making unsubstantiated claims, magicians and others will likely remain hostile.

Video Nasties:
This section discusses 'Video Operators' Distress Syndrome' (VODS), an ailment reported in Personal Computer World, which can cause blurred vision, headaches, and other symptoms. The article notes that ionizer manufacturers suggest their products can protect against VODS, but the scientific evidence for ionizers is equivocal. It also touches upon the potential effects of electromagnetic fields on health, referencing a US report on childhood leukaemia occurring near water hydrants.

UFOs Over Russia (Page 7)

Are alien visitors taking advantage of glasnost? by Tom Ruffles:
This article examines numerous UFO reports originating from the Soviet Union, often disseminated by the official TASS news agency. Reports include sightings of luminous spheres, alien figures, and debris dumped from crafts. Specific incidents detailed include sightings in Vologda, Cherepovetsk, and Dalnegorsk. A notable incident in Dalnegorsk involved unusual debris with properties beyond current scientific understanding. The article also discusses a mysterious burnt spot near Moscow, initially attributed to a UFO landing but later explained as a prank involving a burning haystack. The author notes that these reports were picked up by the US press with enthusiasm, but commentators offered various explanations, including the effects of glasnost or a need for mystery in Russian culture.

UFOs Over Russia (Continued) (Page 8)

This section continues the report on Soviet UFO incidents. It mentions a story from Socialist Industry about a milkmaid in Perm who encountered a tall, dark figure. Another report describes fluorescent egg-shaped objects hovering over a field. The article also references a Soviet Military Review article suggesting the US Strategic Defence Initiative should be scrapped due to the possibility of shooting down a UFO. The most famous Soviet UFO incident, the Voronezh case, is detailed: TASS reported a landing in a park where eyewitnesses claimed aliens emerged from a 'glowing two-legged sphere.' Further details emerge about the aliens' appearance and actions, including the use of a 'gun' and the apparent vanishing of a boy. The article notes that while initial reports were consistent, later analysis suggested the rocks found at the landing site were terrestrial, and the story spread after an article in a local newspaper.

UFOs Over Russia (Continued) (Page 9)

This section concludes the report on the Voronezh UFO incident. It details the media's reaction, including coverage by the Washington Post and Associated Press. The article notes that while some commentators attributed the UFO fever to glasnost or a need for mystery, the episode highlighted how TASS reports were sometimes given credibility simply due to the agency's reputation. The article quotes Silanov, a scientist involved, as saying, 'Don't believe all you hear from TASS,' casting doubt on the agency's reporting. The author, Tom Ruffles, is identified as a commercial analyst interested in parapsychology.

The Moses Barrier (Page 10)

The paranormal takes over where religion left off by Lewis Jones:
This article explores the concept of the 'Moses Barrier,' a term coined by T. H. Huxley to describe the boundaries of scientific knowledge. Jones argues that in the 20th century, these barriers have moved into science itself, with fields like para-physics and parapsychology claiming a special dispensation from rigorous testing. The author draws parallels between these 'para-thinkers' and religious practices, citing historical examples like the doctrine of signatures and the claims of faith healing. The article suggests that the modern paranormal movement often mimics religious claims by using a 'para- label' to avoid direct scientific scrutiny, highlighting the numerous parallels between paranormal claims and religion.

Reviews

• Acupuncture Meets Gaia (Robin Allen)
• Astro-archaeology Revisited (Hilary Evans)
• Unexplained Sightings in Bath (Redge Lewis & William Haynes)
• Alienation (Ian Ridpath)
• The Myth of Alternative Health (Nick Beard)
• On Medium Wavelengths (Mike Rutter)

Letters (Page 3)

This section contains letters from readers, including one from David Hawkins questioning the hostility towards Uri Geller from magicians.

Editors and Acknowledgements

Editors: Dr Steve Donnelly and Toby Howard
Typing: Mary McDerby
Proofreading: Gaynor Donnelly and Jane Bousfield

The magazine is published bimonthly from P.O. Box 475, Manchester M60 2TH, UK. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the editors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, UFO sightings, and pseudoscientific beliefs. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, emphasizing the need for scientific rigor, objective testing, and evidence-based reasoning. The magazine actively debunks sensationalized media reports and challenges unsubstantiated claims, advocating for a rational and scientific approach to understanding phenomena that fall outside conventional scientific understanding. There is a strong undercurrent of distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and what is perceived as gullibility, hoaxes, or exploitation of public interest in the mysterious.

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, dated March/April 1990, focuses on skepticism and critical thinking, with a particular emphasis on the statistical underestimation of coincidences and a detailed review of recent literature on crop circles. The magazine features articles by Clive Hunt and David J. Fisher, along with book reviews and special offers.

"On Coincidences" by Clive Hunt

Clive Hunt's article, "On Coincidences," delves into why people often find seemingly improbable events to be more significant than they statistically are. He introduces two key principles:

Principle No. 1: Underestimation of Coincidence Probability

Hunt illustrates this with the "Birthday Problem," which shows that in a group of just 23 people, there's a 50% chance of two sharing a birthday. This is counterintuitive, as most people guess a much higher number. He provides figures showing how rapidly the probability of a coincidence increases with group size. The core idea is that people greatly underestimate the likelihood of simple coincidences.

Principle No. 2: The Mind as a Pattern Recognizer

This principle highlights the mind's strong ability to recognize patterns retrospectively (a posteriori). While people focus on surprising events that have happened, they tend to ignore the vast number of non-occurrences of similar patterns. This selective attention creates a biased perception of how unlikely certain events truly are.

Hunt uses examples of surprising events that have occurred during audience participation in talks about the Birthday Problem, such as identical twins being present or matching birthdays. He contrasts these with events that haven't happened, emphasizing that the mind automatically picks up coincidences but fails to account for the countless non-coincidences.

The article concludes by suggesting that understanding these principles can help in critically appraising evidence presented as 'coincidences.' Hunt is a statistician based in Johannesburg, and this article is reprinted from ARIP, the newsletter of the South African Skeptics.

"Gullibility and the Appliance of Science" by Gerald Haigh

Gerald Haigh argues that the primary reason for emphasizing science education is not to produce more scientists, but to reduce gullibility in the general population. He criticizes the tendency to accept extraordinary explanations for phenomena without questioning them.

Haigh uses examples like advertising claims ('absorbed' by the skin, diet products slimming specific body parts) and paranormal beliefs (spiritualist mediums, disturbed teenagers as foci for supernatural beings) to illustrate this point. He contrasts the scientific method of postulating, testing, and questioning with the uncritical acceptance of unsubstantiated claims.

He notes that while the national curriculum aims to encourage questioning, the pervasive gullibility means that people are prone to believing in things like astrologers, spirit mediums, and even mythical creatures like the Loch Ness Monster. Haigh suggests that a lack of basic scientific literacy leads people to leap to the least likely explanations for unusual events.

The article expresses concern that without improved science education, society might be governed by less rational influences. Haigh writes for the Times Education Supplement.

"Circular Arguments and Straw Men" by David J. Fisher

David J. Fisher provides a critical review of three recent books on crop circles: "Circular Evidence" by Delgado & Andrews, "The Circles Effect and its Mysteries" by G. T. Meaden, and "Controversy of the Circles" by Fuller & Randles. Fisher, a scientific editor and writer, applies a skeptical approach, often championing the "null option" (fraud) as the most parsimonious explanation.

Review of Books and Authors:

• Circular Evidence (Delgado & Andrews): Described as beautifully produced, this book suggests circles are caused by 'unknown' forces or known forces acting in unprecedented ways, leaning towards UFO activity. Fisher notes Delgado's background as a design engineer and Andrews' as an electrical engineer.
• The Circles Effect and its Mysteries (G. T. Meaden): This book is presented as more like a scientific textbook. Dr. Meaden, a physicist, proposes atmospheric vortices as the cause. Fisher points out Meaden's editorship of the Journal of Meteorology and directorship of TORRO, suggesting potential bias.
• Controversy of the Circles (Fuller & Randles): This is a pamphlet criticized for its amateurish layout and text. Fuller and Randles, described as 'new wave' ufologists, support Meaden's vortex theory and attack UFO and hoax explanations.

Fisher's Critique of Crop Circle Arguments:

Fisher systematically dismantles common arguments used to support the idea that crop circles are not hoaxes:

• Point A (Genuine vs. Fake): The argument that 'genuine' circles have specific characteristics (layering, banding, damage, elliptical shape, overnight appearance) not found in hoaxes is criticized as circular. Fisher states that experts cannot reliably distinguish real from fake, and that the definition of 'genuine' is based on eliminating fakes, without proof of genuine origin.
• Point B (Day vs. Night): The claim that genuine circles appear overnight while hoaxes are made during the day is disputed and not universally agreed upon.
• Point C (Publicity): The idea that hoaxes are made for publicity is challenged, suggesting that some circles might be intentionally made to be unseen, like art installations.
• Point D (Antiquity): The claim that circles date back to ancient times is dismissed as relying on dubious sources and misinterpreting evidence. Fisher suggests that reports of ancient 'circles' might refer to different phenomena like mowing-devils or concentric patterns, not necessarily swirled crop formations.

Fisher also critiques the authors' methods, such as setting up "straw men" (easily refutable arguments against weak hoax theories) and name-dropping to bolster authority. He questions the claim of numerous scientists involved with some of the research.

Alternative Explanations and Fisher's Theory:

Fisher suggests that many circles could be created by farmers using machinery, particularly those operating on tramlines. He notes that large patterns could be made by turning tractor steering wheels, and that farm implements could create spirals. He also mentions the possibility of traffic-generated eddies influencing crop patterns, citing a study linking US tornado activity to motorway flow.

He proposes that the creation of crop circles might be a form of superstitious activity, drawing parallels with ancient beliefs about 'spirit animals' causing crops to sway. He also suggests that the complexity and frequency of circles might increase due to factors like boredom, resentment, or a desire to create mystery.

Fisher concludes that the hoax theory remains viable, and that the experts' inability to distinguish genuine from fake, coupled with their reliance on anecdotal evidence and flawed logic, makes their conclusions suspect. He advocates for Occam's razor, preferring human peculiarity over more exotic explanations.

Special Offers and Book Reviews

The magazine includes special pre-publication discounts and reductions on several books, including works by Joe Nickell, Douglas Stalker, Clark Glymour, Roger Culver, Philip Ianna, and Philip J. Klass. These books cover topics ranging from mystery solving and holistic medicine to astrology and UFO abductions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism, critical thinking, and the scientific method. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational explanations, questioning extraordinary claims, and promoting scientific literacy to combat gullibility. The magazine actively debunks paranormal phenomena and pseudoscientific arguments, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based reasoning and statistical analysis. The review of crop circle literature strongly advocates for a skeptical approach, challenging the validity of claims that dismiss hoax explanations in favor of more mysterious or exotic causes.

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, dated March/April 1990, features a collection of articles and reviews that critically examine paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and alternative beliefs from a skeptical perspective.

Skeptic at Large: A farewell look at Irish beliefs

Wendy M. Grossman, in her farewell article from Ireland, reflects on her six years in the country and her impending move to Britain. She touches upon the influence of religion on scientific discourse in Ireland, citing an example of a hospital cancelling a conference on Parkinson's Disease due to objections about the use of fetal cells. Grossman also discusses the historical anti-contraception material and its alleged link to various social evils, questioning the proof. She notes that while contraception is now legal, condoms face restrictions. Grossman observes that there seems to be less paranormal activity in Ireland than in the UK, attributing this partly to the continuing dominance of the church, suggesting that religious miracles are more likely to be accepted. She also considers economic factors, noting that it's less profitable for international psychic stars to tour Ireland. She recounts Uri Geller's appearance on 'The Late Late Show' and Doris Stokes's impact, but points out that Geller's book did not sell well. Grossman highlights local paranormal phenomena like dowsing and faith healing. She also mentions a government crackdown on health food stores selling preparations without licensing, contrasting it with the continued availability of publications like 'Blueprint for Living' that promote alternative therapies. The article concludes by suggesting that Americans have more leisure time and money to pursue paranormal beliefs, while Ireland's low wages and high taxes make it difficult for people to afford such pursuits.

Enquiring Minds?

Marc Moran critically examines claims found in the National Enquirer, such as Nostradamus being an Extra-Terrestrial and the mysterious powers of the 'Ring of Re'. He debunks the 'Ring of Re' as a product that profits from people's desire for luck, suggesting that any satisfaction comes from psychological effects or the vendors' gains. Moran then analyzes the National Enquirer's 1989 psychic predictions, highlighting their spectacular failure to foresee major world events like the fall of the Berlin Wall, while a single UFO prediction is noted with irony. He concludes that the 'Ring of Re' brings prosperity only to its sellers.

Psychic Diary: Is there any future in divination?

Toby Howard humorously explores various methods of divination, from alectryomancy (using a cockerel) and ceromancy (melted wax) to more obscure techniques like gyromancy, theriomancy, and even tyromancy (coagulation of cheese). He considers methods involving oneself, such as scapulimancy (shoulder blades) and chiromancy (palms). Ultimately, he admits to making up a divination method and jokes about the unreliability of divination, referencing a horse race.

Heaven and Earth: Tabloid Mass ESP Tests

Michael Hutchinson scrutinizes 'mass-telepathy' experiments conducted by tabloids, criticizing journalists for their lack of rigor. He analyzes the Matthew Manning 'mass telepathy test' from the Sunday Mirror in 1977, showing how Randi's predicted figures closely matched the actual results, suggesting the success was not due to psychic ability. Hutchinson also examines the Daily Mirror's 'great Geller experiment' and The Sun's experiments with Doris Stokes and Uri Geller, pointing out statistical flaws and misquotations. He expresses skepticism about The Sun's figures, stating it's now part of his nature to doubt them.

Reviews

Acupuncture Meets Gaia

This review of Stephen Skinner's 'The Living Earth Manual of Feng-Shui' criticizes the book for ascribing profound significance to Feng Shui simply because it is old and Chinese. The reviewer finds the book tedious and frustrating, deeming Feng Shui as pure superstition. The review highlights the book's attempts to explain phenomena through 'ch'i' energy and its advice on interring relatives. The reviewer also critiques Skinner's use of non-sequiturs and his dismissal of scientific explanations in favor of anecdotal evidence, particularly noting Skinner's attribution of organism navigation to Earth's magnetic field as scientific ignorance.

Astro-archaeology revisited

Robin Allen reviews John Michell's 'A Little History of Astro-Archaeology', praising its intelligent and intelligible writing style in charting the controversy surrounding the alignment of archaeological sites with astronomical points. However, Allen notes that the book's lucidity also reveals pitfalls, particularly the 'New Age' tendency to embrace speculation and 'anomalous natural energies' as fact. While acknowledging the book's merit, Allen remains skeptical of the extrapolations drawn from ambiguous findings.

Unexplained sightings in Bath

This review covers an exhibition titled 'The Unexplained-Mysteries of Space Mind and Time' and a talk by Lynn Picknett. The reviewer finds the exhibition absurd, criticizing its display of 'fiddled nonsense'. Specific items mentioned include crop circles, ghosts, poltergeists, and UFOs, with particular criticism directed at the inclusion of Alex Birch's confessed hoax photographs and the commentary on the Trinidade Island UFO photographs. The reviewer also discusses the exhibition's handling of the Turin Shroud and levitation, expressing a personal fascination with levitation. The review concludes by suggesting that a local museum, planetarium, or library would offer a better exploration of the universe's real wonders.

Alienation?

Ian Ridpath reviews Edith Fiore's 'Abductions', criticizing the book for its repetitive nature and Fiore's uncritical acceptance of alien abduction claims based on hypnotic regression. Ridpath highlights the suggestive nature of Fiore's questioning and her 'religious certainty' in the reality of abductions, offering a self-help guide to using a pendulum to access subconscious memories as a way to blame aliens for problems.

The Myth of Alternative Health

Nick Beard reviews Rosalind Coward's 'The Whole Truth', which critiques the myth of alternative health. The review notes Coward's focus on the inconsistencies and dishonesty within the alternative health movement, rather than its efficacy. It highlights the shift towards personal responsibility for health and the subtle racism in marketing 'natural' products from Africa and India. The review also touches on the book's discussion of women's obsession with natural lifestyles and childbirth, and its repetition of some pseudo-radical myths.

On medium wavelengths

This review of Betty Shine's 'Mind to Mind' discusses her experiences as a medium and psychic healer. The reviewer notes Shine's belief that a head injury activated her psychic abilities and her use of 'active imagination'. Shine's practice of 'laying on of hands' and 'channelling' spirit doctors is mentioned, along with her belief that most illnesses are psychosomatic and treatable by psychic means. The review expresses a desire for collaboration with the medical establishment to investigate her abilities but concludes that 'not proven' is the only skeptical verdict possible.

New Writers

The British & Irish Skeptic is seeking new contributors for articles on pseudoscience and the paranormal, aiming to entertain as well as inform.

Important Announcement

The magazine announces a change of title from 'The British & Irish Skeptic' to 'The Skeptic', effective from issue IV.3.

Special Offer for B&IS Readers

Readers are offered a discount on Philip Ward's 'Dictionary of Common Fallacies'.

Psi and the Sceptic

An announcement for a Study Day hosted by the Society for Psychical Research, addressing the reasons for belief and disbelief in the paranormal and the reaction of psychical researchers to skepticism. The event features four speakers and a general discussion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, psychic phenomena, and alternative health practices from a skeptical viewpoint. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism, challenging the validity of tabloid sensationalism, unscientific methodologies, and unsubstantiated beliefs. The magazine actively promotes critical thinking and the separation of science from myth, while also providing a platform for writers to express their views on these topics. There is a consistent effort to debunk pseudoscience and highlight the importance of empirical evidence and logical reasoning.

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, dated March/April 1990, is a collection of letters to the editor, covering a range of topics from paranormal claims to the nature of skepticism and the magazine's own content.

Letters to the Editor

Uri Geller

David Hawkins from Reading writes to express his surprise at the continued hostile attitude towards Uri Geller, particularly from magicians. Hawkins, a performing magician himself, finds Geller fascinating and believes magicians should aim to create wonder rather than destroy it through skepticism. He recalls Geller's warm appearance at a 1988 conference in Brighton and his surprising friendship with David Berglas, challenging the press's portrayal of them as enemies. Hawkins concludes that Geller is a superb entertainer regardless of whether he possesses psychic abilities.

Roy Jenkins' Dream

Jon Lord from Surrey raises a critical point regarding an incident recounted by Dr. John Beloff in a previous issue. The incident involved Roy Jenkins having a dream about his colleague Anthony Crosland dying, only for Crosland to pass away shortly after. Lord questions Beloff's assertion that Crosland's death was unexpected, pointing to newspaper reports from February 14th to 18th, 1977, in 'The Times' which detailed Crosland's admission to hospital, critical condition, and signs of a stroke. Lord argues that Jenkins had ample reason to expect his colleague's death, making the dream of less paranormal significance.

John Beloff Replies

Dr. John Beloff responds to Jon Lord's critique, admitting a 'mea culpa' regarding the unexpectedness of Crosland's death. He concedes that media reports indicated Crosland was dangerously ill. However, Beloff maintains that there was no reason for Jenkins to expect his *imminent* demise, noting that Jenkins had learned from Denis Healey on the previous Monday that Crosland was ill and might be out of action for some time. Beloff emphasizes that what impressed Jenkins, and even Crosland's widow Susan, was the timing of the dream coinciding with the death, not the dream itself. Beloff categorizes such spontaneous cases as unprovable if one rejects ESP, but as further examples of psychical research phenomena if ESP is accepted.

A Lore Unto Himself

Simon Wikins from Oxford expresses concern about Toby Howard's columns focusing on folk customs. Wikins worries that encouraging skepticism towards such traditions might reduce the effectiveness of folk remedies or practices, humorously referencing a 'fertility' promise.

Bent Spoon Award

Phil Newman from London comments on the first annual UK Skeptics' 'Bent Spoon Award'. While acknowledging its potential to highlight idiocy and gain media attention for the skeptical movement, Newman finds the name unfortunate. He argues that 'Bent Spoon' is synonymous with Uri Geller in Britain, thereby providing him with free publicity. Newman suggests an alternative name, such as 'Cracked Crystal Ball Award'.

Back Cover Information

The back cover provides subscription information for The British & Irish Skeptic, detailing costs for UK, Europe, and other countries, and lists several feature articles from previous issues across Volumes I, II, and III, covering topics like UFOs, psychics, magicians, creationism, and skepticism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The letters in this issue reflect a core editorial stance of critical inquiry and skepticism towards paranormal claims. The debate over the Roy Jenkins' dream highlights the magazine's focus on rigorous examination of evidence and the importance of context in evaluating purported paranormal events. The discussion around Uri Geller and the 'Bent Spoon Award' further underscores the magazine's engagement with prominent figures and events in the paranormal and skeptical communities, often with a critical or analytical perspective.