Skeptic - 1991 - Vol 5 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 5, Number 1
Date: January/February 1991
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
ISSN: 0959-5228
Price: £1.85

This issue of The Skeptic presents a diverse range of articles, focusing on skepticism towards paranormal claims, scientific inquiry, and critical analysis of popular beliefs. The cover prominently features an interview with the well-known skeptical entertainer Paul Daniels.

Contents and Key Articles

Interview with Paul Daniels

Paul Daniels, a celebrated magician and television personality, shares his views on skepticism, religion, and the paranormal in an interview with Michael Hutchinson. Daniels expresses his belief that a lack of proper education leads people to seek mysticism, and that the human animal is inherently amazing. He discusses his past belief in telekinesis and religious mysticism, but explains how a wider range of reading led him to a more logical perspective. He is critical of how the media often promotes paranormal claims before debunking them. Daniels also praises the work of James Randi in raising public awareness about skepticism and advocates for teaching critical thinking skills in schools. He expresses a desire to encounter genuine paranormal phenomena but remains unconvinced of their existence.

Hits and Misses by Steve Donnelly

This section covers several brief items:

• Firework Night: Reports of unusual lights seen over Western Europe on November 5th were initially suspected to be UFOs but were later identified as the reentry of a Soviet satellite's upper stage.
• Give us this Day...: An amusing incident at a church in Pennsylvania where a McDonald's broadcast was heard during Mass due to a cordless microphone mix-up.
• Three Men and a Ghost: A novelty story about a 'haunted movie set' where a ghost was reportedly seen. This was debunked by Disney as a cardboard cutout of actor Ted Danson.
• Natural Nasties: A warning from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society about the potential risks of 'natural' or alternative remedies, highlighting that they are not always safe or effective and can have serious side effects.

The Houdini File No. 4 by Frank Koval

This installment of 'The Houdini File' examines Houdini's involvement with film-making and his correspondence with Harry Price regarding mediums. It discusses Houdini's brief foray into film production and his fascination with ectoplasm. The article details Harry Price's investigation of the medium Willy Schneider and references the work of Dr. W.J. Crawford on Kathleen Goligher, whose investigations into ectoplasm were later found to be fraudulent by Dr. E.E. Fournier d'Albe.

The Philosophical Prestidigitator

This article is the interview with Paul Daniels, detailed above.

Martian Waterways by Sean O'Brian

This comprehensive article traces the history of the belief in Martian canals. It begins with Giovanni Schiaparelli's 1877 observations and his use of the term 'canali'. The article explains how atmospheric conditions and the selective nature of observation led astronomers to confirm and interpret these features as artificial canals. It discusses the influence of figures like Camille Flammarion and Percival Lowell, who promoted the idea of Martian civilization. The article also details the scientific investigations and photographic evidence that eventually disproved the existence of canals, culminating with the Mariner 4 mission in 1965. The conclusion is that the perception of canals was a result of human minds constructing images from limited and fluctuating data.

Nostradamus and the Middle-East Crisis by Allen Lang

This article examines claims that Nostradamus predicted the Gulf War, analyzing his prophecies in the context of the unfolding Middle-East crisis. It explores how certain quatrains are interpreted to foretell events related to the conflict.

Potty Training by Ian Woods

This article likely discusses the skepticism surrounding 'potty training' methods or claims, possibly related to child development or paranormal influences.

Warning-Graphology Can Damage Your Health! by Barrie Whitaker

This piece critiques graphology, the practice of analyzing handwriting to understand personality or predict future events. It argues that graphology lacks scientific validity and can be harmful, particularly when used for health-related assessments.

The Case for Super-Skepticism by David Fisher

This article advocates for a rigorous form of skepticism, likely exploring the principles and benefits of applying critical thinking to a wide range of claims and beliefs.

Skeptical Predictions 1991 by Marjorie Mackintosh

This article likely reviews predictions made for the year 1991, assessing their accuracy and the methods used to generate them from a skeptical viewpoint.

Psychic Diary by Toby Howard

This piece offers a skeptical examination of psychic phenomena, possibly reviewing personal experiences or claims of psychic abilities.

Skeptic at Large by Wendy Grossman

This column likely provides commentary on current events or trends from a skeptical perspective.

Reviews and Letters

The issue includes a 'Reviews' section, likely featuring critiques of books or media related to skepticism and the paranormal, and a 'Letters' section for reader correspondence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, the importance of scientific methodology, critical analysis of popular beliefs, and the role of education in fostering rational thinking. The magazine's stance, as indicated by its title and the content, is to promote critical inquiry and to challenge unsubstantiated claims, particularly those related to UFOs, psychic phenomena, and pseudoscientific practices. The editors, Steve Donnelly and Toby Howard, along with Associate Editor Dave Love, curate content that encourages readers to question and investigate extraordinary claims.

This issue of The Skeptic, dated January/February 1991, features a cover story by Allan Lang titled "Nostradamus and the Middle-East Crisis," which critically examines the claim that Nostradamus predicted the Gulf War. The magazine also includes articles on management training, graphology, and a call for a more assertive form of skepticism.

Nostradamus and the Middle-East Crisis by Allan Lang

Allan Lang addresses the popular claim that Nostradamus predicted the recent Middle Eastern crisis, specifically the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. Lang simulates an argument to demonstrate how easily Nostradamus's quatrains can be retrofitted to fit historical events, even if no one made such interpretations before the event. He analyzes quatrains such as 2:89, 2:62, and 8:70, proposing anagrammatic interpretations for names like 'Mabus' to 'Sudam' (Saddam Hussein). Lang suggests that Nostradamus foresaw the rise of a 'Final Anti-Christ' associated with Mesopotamia, predicting the use of chemical weapons and a long war. He also touches upon quatrains 3:61 and 5:25, which he links to the Iraq-Iran conflict and the potential mobilization of forces against Iraq. Lang notes that while modern interpreters focus on the Middle East, Nostradamus's original context involved fears of a Moslem invasion of Europe. He concludes that despite claims of Nostradamus's prescience, no one had previously interpreted these specific quatrains as predicting the current crisis before August 1990, highlighting a common failure among 'Nostradamen' to accurately predict the future.

Potty Training: A skeptical look at management training by Ian Woods

Ian Woods offers a scathing critique of the management training industry, comparing it to quack medicine and astrology. He argues that companies, despite their wealth, are often as gullible as individuals, and that management training exploits corporate health problems with vague promises and high costs. Woods points out that the 'aims' of these courses are so generalized that their effectiveness is impossible to measure objectively. He further contends that testimonials are unreliable, as employees are pressured to give positive feedback to avoid appearing ungrateful or incompetent. Woods suggests that companies invest in training due to peer pressure and the desire to appear proactive, rather than demonstrable results. He describes the typical content of such courses as a 'cocktail' of case histories, anecdotes, and theories, often presented by an 'expert' whose talking commands high fees. Woods concludes that genuine expertise comes from aptitude, hard work, and practice, not from these superficial courses, and that the industry thrives on a self-perpetuating belief system that suits everyone involved except those seeking genuine improvement.

Warning—Graphology Can Damage Your Health! by Barrie Whitaker

Barrie Whitaker investigates graphology, the analysis of handwriting to determine personality. He notes its historical roots and current use in employment selection and other areas, but expresses skepticism about its scientific validity. Whitaker explains that while the brain influences hand movements, the leap to accurately assessing personality from script is problematic. He critiques graphologists for ignoring factors like conditioning and autosuggestion, and for using vague, unspecific language in their reports. Whitaker describes a personal study where graphology's accuracy in predicting personality traits was statistically insignificant, performing only marginally better than random guessing. He concludes that graphology cannot be taken as a serious assessment tool and is best viewed as an art, possibly offering an illusory sense of comfort to organizations lacking structured methodologies.

The Case for Super-Skepticism by David Fisher

David Fisher argues for a more aggressive and uncompromising form of skepticism, differentiating it from 'wet' skepticism that seeks to be overly polite and balanced. He calls for 'cynical skepticism,' which involves ridiculing and relentlessly criticizing pseudoscientific claims rather than inviting them to undergo proper testing. Fisher believes that skeptics should not be exploited for 'balance' in media programs, as this often gives undue weight to unfounded claims. He advocates for using a wider range of techniques, including dramatization, to influence public opinion against irrationality. Fisher contends that the gullible are as culpable as unscrupulous leaders in the paranormal field and that a failure to appreciate strict rules of evidence underlies many societal miseries, from racism to pseudoscience. He criticizes the media for prioritizing entertainment over information and for fostering a preference for emotion over reason.

Skeptical Predictions 1991 by Marjorie Mackintosh

Marjorie Mackintosh provides a humorous list of satirical 'predictions' for 1991, poking fun at various trends and figures. These include astrologers claiming to have predicted Mrs. Thatcher's downfall, explanations for tears on icons related to financial losses, a breakthrough in homeopathic cars running on 'memory of petrol,' and aliens landing in Trafalgar Square. The predictions also touch on political events, religious condemnations of rock music, parapsychological theories about Dan Quayle's mind, and a conference of remote viewers unable to find the venue. The year concludes with a controversy over red lights in the sky, attributed by UFOlogists to Martian visitors and by government officials to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is skepticism towards claims of paranormal phenomena, pseudoscientific practices, and unverified predictions. The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance, challenging the validity of subjects like Nostradamus's prophecies, management training effectiveness, and graphology. The editorial stance favors evidence-based reasoning, scientific rigor, and a healthy dose of critical inquiry, as exemplified by David Fisher's call for 'cynical skepticism.' The inclusion of humorous predictions by Marjorie Mackintosh further underscores the magazine's lighthearted yet critical approach to the extraordinary claims often presented to the public.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue Date: January/February 1991
Character: A critical and investigative publication focused on skepticism towards paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and New Age beliefs.

Psychic Diary by Toby Howard

Toby Howard begins the issue with a personal reflection on 'New Age Music,' expressing a dislike for its perceived anodyne nature and lack of style. He contrasts it with Brian Eno's 'ambient music,' which he finds more interesting despite its ignorable quality. Howard critiques 'New Age Video' as equally uninspired, citing examples like 'Field of yellow rape seed blowing in the wind' and 'Basil the Parrot.' He notes that while New Age music aims to facilitate meditation, traditional music can achieve similar states without sacrificing style. The article concludes with a brief biographical note identifying Toby Howard as a lecturer in computer graphics and a member of the Manchester Skeptics.

Skeptic at Large by Wendy M Grossman

Wendy Grossman, the founder of The Skeptic, expresses gratitude to contributors like Toby Howard and Steve Donnelly. She highlights the work of Robin Allen and the Wessex Skeptics, who generated interest through articles in national newspapers. Grossman also praises Mike Howgate and the London Student Skeptics, recounting her experience being tested for ESP, where the results were close to chance expectations. She strongly advocates for the importance of local skeptic groups in Britain, emphasizing their role in combating isolation and fostering mutual understanding among skeptics. Grossman draws parallels with the success of local groups in the US, which have contributed to CSICOP's growth and projects like James Randi's investigation of Peter Popoff. She offers advice on how to start a local group, suggesting a simple pub meeting or a larger public event, and stresses the crucial role of communication in maintaining group cohesion. The article also acknowledges Michael Hutchinson's earlier contributions to skeptical literature in Britain.

Reviews

Follow the New Age brick road

Eileen Campbell and J H Brennan's "The Aquarian Guide to the New Age" is reviewed by an unnamed author. The book is described as offering comprehensive coverage of New Age ideas with a historical introduction and extensive entries. However, the reviewer notes the lack of an index and criticizes the book for presenting a 'pot-pourri of unorthodox ideas' without critical evaluation. While the authors advocate for discrimination and skepticism, the reviewer feels the book gives the impression that most items are genuine. Notably absent from the bibliography are standard skeptical authors. The review points out the book's failure to discuss opposing viewpoints or critics of alternative medical practices, and it lists numerous New Age concepts (Bermuda Triangle, Biorhythms, Astral Projection, UFOs, etc.) for which the book provides no critical examination. The reviewer concludes that while the book has merits as an account of New Age beliefs, general readers will need skeptical guidance to sort through the material.

Chasing the eternal flame

Charles Paul Brown, BernaDeane, and James Russell Strole's "Together Forever: An Invitation to Physical Immortality" is reviewed by Mike Moran. Moran finds the book's premise of physical immortality to be long on rhetoric and short on evidence. He describes the content as inspirational from a pulpit but banal and incomprehensible on paper, mentioning concepts like 'cellular intercourse.' Moran remains unconvinced by the authors' arguments and expresses skepticism about achieving immortality. He questions whether he would even want to live forever, citing the potential for boredom as illustrated by mythological figures.

We should be so lucky

Royston M. Roberts' "Serendipity: Accidental Discoveries in Science" is reviewed by Les Francis. The book is praised for its collection of discoveries made by happy accident, such as Velcro and the Daguerreotype process. Francis highlights that the book emphasizes chemistry-related subjects and is written enthusiastically for the lay reader. The reviewer notes that the book appeals to anyone curious about unlikely discoveries and concludes that serendipity does occur, citing the book's own accidental discovery as an example.

Conspiracies and cover-ups

Howard Blum's "Out There" is reviewed by Les Francis. The book is described as a journalist's look at UFO cover-ups in the USA. Francis finds that Blum makes little impact on the ufology world, despite his previous work on spy rings. The review outlines the book's chronology of official UFO investigations and its anecdotal experiences, criticizing Blum for accepting witness accounts without question and missing the tenet that people often misidentify what they see. The review mentions the inclusion of MJ-12, Roswell, and Bill Moore's involvement with government agencies investigating Dr. Paul Bennewitz. Francis concludes that the book is a solid history of governmental UFO interest but faults Blum for not realizing that witnesses and ufologists are susceptible to UFO mythology. The definitive cover-up investigation book, however, is deemed yet to be written.

Whole in one

David Lorimer's "Whole In One: The Near-Death Experience and the Ethic of Interconnectedness" is reviewed by Susan Blackmore. Blackmore expresses disappointment with the book's 'mishmash' of explanations for NDEs, which include concepts like telepathic prehension and Bohm's implicate order. While acknowledging the accurate description of NDE experiences, she criticizes the book for assuming a substantial self and free will, and for using evidence from hypnotic regression and channeled messages to support the idea of a moral universe. Blackmore questions the book's conclusion that NDEs provide evidence for interconnectedness, arguing that materialists can also learn essential life lessons.

Christians vs. the New Age

Lowell D Streiker's "New Age comes to Main Street: what worried Christians must know" is reviewed by Peter Bell. Bell criticizes the book's title, suggesting that Christianity itself is as diverse as the New Age. He notes that the book explains various strands of the New Age movement but fails to offer a clear Christian response. Bell, a scientist and evangelical Christian, approaches paranormal occurrences with skepticism but believes Christ can perform miracles. He describes the book's content as ranging from crystal users and UFO abductees to witches and radical feminists. While finding the book easy to read and a good survey of the New Age movement, Bell feels the author unnecessarily foregrounds himself and fails to provide a useful Christian perspective on the topic.

Nasty things in the night

David Hufford's "The Terror That Comes In The Night" is reviewed by Peter Bell. The book is an experience-centered study of supernatural assault traditions, focusing on the 'Old Hag' experience. Bell notes that Hufford estimates about 15% of people experience this phenomenon. The reviewer explains that Hufford, a folklorist, investigates this occurrence and strongly disputes the common explanation of it being a variation of hypnagogic hallucination. Hufford's work is described as iconoclastic, but the reviewer questions the strength of his conclusions based on anecdotal evidence. Hufford is commended for not leaping to a paranormal explanation or adopting a metaphysical position. However, the review notes the book's weakness in offering few suggestions for explanation and its lack of references to other researchers like Sue Blackmore. The book is considered a preliminary study that appeals for further investigation, suggesting that the 'Old Hag' experience is more than just imagination.

All in the mind

James E Alcock's "Science and Supernature: A Critical Appraisal of Parapsychology" is reviewed by Robin Allen. The book is described as meticulously detailed and comprehensive, valuable for academic study of psychokinesis and remote viewing, but potentially slow for a bedtime read. Allen highlights the introductions, which provide overviews of parapsychology and experimental methods. He notes Alcock's dispassionate tone when describing how parapsychologists use the 'experimenter effect' to justify findings. The review mentions Alcock's postscript responding to criticisms. Allen finds the book serious and unlikely to appear alongside popular paperbacks debunking pseudoscience, which he regrets. The review questions why Alcock doesn't ask why mysterious powers are so exciting to scientifically trained individuals.

The Lights are Bright

Paul Devereux's "Earth Lights Revelations" is reviewed by Martin Hempstead. Hempstead notes the book's focus on 'earth lights,' described as small, glowing globes of light. He praises the author's sober and coherent approach, filling over a hundred pages with sighting details from around the world. The review mentions the inclusion of 43 color plates, some of which are disappointing. Hempstead feels the consistency of form suggests an objective reality to these lights, independent of social or cultural context, and that multiple eyewitness accounts argue against psychological illusion or hoaxing. Devereux's thesis connecting earth lights with seismic strain fields and inferring electromagnetic phenomena is presented. However, Hempstead criticizes the book for rarely exploring counter-arguments, lack of discussion on population density, and for its speculative ten pages on consciousness and extraterrestrials, which he dismisses as 'ignis fatuus.' Despite weaknesses, the book is recommended as a readable source of eyewitness accounts.

A beautiful balance

Michael Rowan-Robinson's "Universe" is reviewed by John Yates. Yates praises the book as a monumental effort to present state-of-the-art astronomical knowledge to a lay audience, calling it a superb book of beauty, conviction, and style that deserves to become a classic. The author covers twenty different astronomical objects, weaving in current concepts and theories of modern astronomy. The review highlights the book's appeal in attaching equal emphasis to technical matters and mankind's relationship to the universe, encompassing cultural, metaphysical, and aesthetic forms. Yates notes the successful balancing of graphs, charts, diagrams, color photographs, poetry, songs, and artworks.

Letters

Keith Harary

Keith Harary writes to correct points made in a previous review of his books "Have An Out Of Body Experience In 30 Days" and "Lucid Dreams In 30 Days." He clarifies that he has not 'turned to making money out of psychic ventures' and has had no involvement with Russell Targ's recent activities. Harary also agrees that inducing lucid dreams and OBEs may not be harmful but states that he and Pamela Weintraub included cautions in their books, advising readers with psychological problems to consult a mental health professional and suggesting that even balanced readers should not get carried away. He also mentions including exercises for grounding and maintaining a balanced approach.

Jehovah's Witnesses

An anonymous writer responds to a letter about Scientology, correcting a statement about Jehovah's Witnesses. The writer argues that the doctrine of hell is the most prominent distinguishing feature of the sect, and that Judge Rutherford's "The Harp of God" presents four distinct reasons why hell cannot be true: it is unreasonable, repugnant to justice, contrary to love, and unscriptural. The writer asserts that accusing Jehovah's Witnesses of teaching this doctrine is unfair, given their extraordinary record of courage and persistence under persecution.

A free comment

Nick Beard writes in response to an article by Anthony Garrett on management consultancy. Beard, who claims to be a management consultant, disagrees with Garrett's conclusions, stating that Garrett seems to have no experience in the field. Beard uses the joke about consultants borrowing watches to tell time and charging for the report to illustrate his point, suggesting that clients are not forced to return for advice.

Circles from the air

This short item is an announcement that the author promised in a previous letter to ask members of Britain's Air Crew Association if they had seen any crop circles during or before World War II.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, New Age beliefs, and pseudoscience. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, challenging unsubstantiated assertions and promoting scientific reasoning. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based analysis, with reviewers and contributors frequently pointing out logical fallacies, lack of empirical support, and the potential for psychological or cultural explanations for reported phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry and the debunking of what are perceived as unfounded beliefs, while also acknowledging the importance of open discussion and the need for local skeptic communities to support this endeavor.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 5 Number 1
Date: January/February 1991
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Price: £1.85

This issue of The Skeptic magazine, dated January/February 1991, presents a diverse range of articles and reader contributions centered around skepticism, the paranormal, and critical thinking. The cover features an interview with Paul Daniels and a piece titled 'Potty Training'.

Featured Articles and Letters

Crop Circles and Meteorology: A reader, L. J. Clarke from Uxbridge, writes to debunk the theory that crop circles are caused by meteorological phenomena. He notes that his request, published in the ACA's journal, yielded no reports of crop circles among thousands of aircrew during the war, suggesting that the cause is not weather-related.

Levitation Books: L. J. Clarke also expresses an interest in collecting books on levitation, having previously collected books on astral projection. He is seeking information on any books titled 'Levitation for Terrestrials' or other related works.

Astrology Debate: Frank Chambers from Newport, Co Mayo, responds to a charge from Val Dobson regarding his article on astrology. Chambers defends his summary approach, stating that a full study would require an excessive amount of paper. He offers to provide more details if Val Dobson contacts him at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Glasgow. Chambers also awaits the testing of computer astrology and notes the failure of astrology in a double-blind experiment conducted with prominent astrologers.

Statistics and Sleights: Anthony Garrett from Glasgow comments on the previous issue, raising two points. Firstly, he discusses Andrew Belsey's argument that the supernatural is part of nature if nature is defined as 'simply whatever exists'. Garrett questions whether spirits and demons would be considered 'natural' in a material or scientific sense. Secondly, he addresses Michael Heap's preference for the term 'creative fantasy' over 'cryptomnesia' for past-life experiences, agreeing that such experiences are not literal reproductions but are worked up through imagination, likening memory to storytelling rather than a videotape.

Wigs and Follies: Mike Rutter from Manchester expresses disappointment that Graham Wagstaff has not responded to his previous letter. Rutter clarifies his relationship with Keith Hearne, stating he only supervised Hearne's PhD thesis on dreaming and has not collaborated with him otherwise. He challenges Wagstaff's claim of inaccuracy, pointing out Wagstaff's own collaboration with Hearne on hypnosis research, which Wagstaff apparently forgot.

Science Fiction Correction: H. B. Gibson from Cambridge notes an error in a previous issue, stating that Kurt Vonnegut's novel 'Ice 9' is from 'Cat's Cradle', not 'The Sirens of Titan'. David Simpson from Lusaka, Zambia, also contributes this correction.

Back Issues Listing

The magazine includes a comprehensive listing of available back issues from Volume 1 (1987) to Volume 4 (1990). These issues cover a wide array of topics, including:

• Volume 1 (1987): Abductions, magicians, mediums, psychics, Carl Sagan, science vs. pseudoscience, creationism, Noah's Ark, Nessie, parapsychology, and predictions.
• Volume 2 (1988): Geller's sailboat, telepathy, alternative medicine, Doris Collins, Paul Kurtz interviews, state of the art, S.G. Soal, hypnosis, near-death experiences, pyramids, and iridology.
• Volume 3 (1989): Firewalking, Randi, irrationality, alternative medicine, paranormal on radio, Joseph Newman, psychic odysseys, and cosmic crystal crankery.
• Volume 4 (1990): Hypnosis, occult, leylines, PSI debate, UFOs over Russia, crop circles, astrology, past life regressions, science, fringe science, pseudoscience, Stephen Fry, meta-analysis, creationists, UFOs, and Scientology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue and the listed back issues strongly indicate an editorial stance focused on skepticism, critical examination of paranormal claims, and the promotion of scientific understanding. The magazine actively encourages debate and correction among its readership, as evidenced by the letters section. Topics consistently addressed include UFOs, astrology, psychic phenomena, pseudoscience, and the demarcation between science and belief. The publication appears dedicated to providing a platform for rational inquiry and challenging unsubstantiated claims.