Skeptic - 1992 - Vol 6 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 6, Number 2
Date: March/April 1992
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Price: £1.85

This issue of The Skeptic, published bimonthly from Manchester, UK, presents a critical examination of various phenomena and beliefs, with a strong emphasis on skepticism and rational inquiry. The cover story, "Brainwashed Skeptic: The story of a cult survivor," is complemented by articles investigating "Dianetics: From Out of the Blue?", "Who Invented the Loch Ness Monster?", and "Arguments to Design." Other sections include "Hits and Misses," "Ask Professor Mesmo," and reviews.

Key Articles and Features

Brainwashed Skeptic: The story of a cult survivor

This issue's lead story focuses on the experiences of a cult survivor, detailing the psychological manipulation and control often associated with cults. While the specific details of the survivor's story are not fully elaborated in the provided text, the headline itself indicates a deep dive into the personal impact of such environments.

Dianetics: From Out of the Blue?

Jeff Jacobsen investigates the originality of L. Ron Hubbard's ideas presented in "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health." Jacobsen challenges Hubbard's claim that Dianetics was a completely novel discovery, arguing that many of its core concepts, such as engrams, the reactive mind, and the idea of embryonic memories affecting adult behavior, can be found in earlier scientific and psychoanalytic literature. The article cites researchers like Dr. J. Sadger and Grace W. Pailthorpe, as well as concepts like abreaction from psychoanalysis, to demonstrate that Hubbard's theories were not entirely unprecedented. The article suggests that Hubbard may have either studied existing works or spent time re-inventing concepts that were already known.

Arguments to Design

Antony Flew, a professor emeritus, offers a philosophical critique of the "Arguments to Design," which are used to infer the existence of a creator God based on perceived design in nature. Flew argues that while the inference from an artifact to a designer is compelling, the premise that natural phenomena are necessarily artifacts is flawed. He uses the analogy of a watch found on the ground, which clearly indicates a maker, but questions whether natural objects, which develop organically, fit the same criteria. Flew critiques the teleological argument, particularly as presented by Aquinas, suggesting that it relies on a flawed premise that orderedness in nature requires a conscious director, even when such direction is not apparent. He posits that the simplest explanation for observed phenomena should be considered, and that arguments for supernatural design may be exercises in wishful thinking.

Who Invented the Loch Ness Monster?

This article, authored by Steuart Campbell, likely explores the origins and development of the Loch Ness Monster myth, critically examining the evidence and claims associated with it.

Hits and Misses

Steve Donnelly's column covers a range of skeptical topics:

• Eastern-bloc mysticism: Donnelly notes an apparent surge in interest in psychic phenomena in former Soviet bloc countries following the collapse of communist regimes. He mentions the formation of a skeptics group in Hungary and the use of telepathic customs officers in Bulgaria for drug detection.
• From the subliminal to the ridiculous: This section reports on a British Psychological Society study concluding that subliminal messages on self-help tapes are ineffective. The article humorously notes that the act of purchasing such a tape demonstrates a commitment that may be the actual factor in behavioral change.
• Pyramid-life crisis?: The article touches upon the tabloid coverage of the Duchess of York's alleged treatment using a blue perspex pyramid, invoking ancient Egyptian powers. Donnelly humorously speculates that this might have contributed to her marital issues.
• Hi Fi tips: This piece satirizes pseudoscientific claims in the audio equipment market, referencing a "Lasaway CD pen" that claims to improve sound by drawing circles on CDs. It also mentions other dubious tips like wearing a copper ring or inserting paper sheets into LP sleeves.
• Responsible TV: Donnelly discusses a case in France where a talk show host was charged with aiding and abetting fraud for featuring a faith healer who promised free cancer treatment in exchange for donations.
• Healing with (but not for) peanuts: This section examines the practices of John Walsh, a faith healer in Scotland, who sells "healing" crystals and oils. The article highlights that Walsh turns away patients with fatal illnesses if they cannot pay a minimum fee and mentions claims that castor oil can cure serious ailments.
• Heavy metal poisoning: This part of the column discusses the dangers of unregulated alternative medicine, citing court cases where individuals were convicted for administering dangerous substances. Examples include a herbalist fined for a remedy containing 84% lead, and a Buddhist monk jailed for treating patients with arsenic and mercury.
• Deadly beliefs: This section recounts a harrowing court case in Manchester where a girl died during an exorcism, involving starvation, beatings, and the forced administration of chili powder. The perpetrators, an "Asian Holy Man" and his assistant, were sentenced.

Ask Professor Mesmo

Professor Mesmo, a "metaphysical pure mathematician," answers a reader's query about a possible UFO abduction experience involving a friend named Moira. Mesmo humorously suggests that Moira might be learning alien customs or receiving alien wisdom. The column also announces that Professor Mesmo will be on a six-month academic retreat, and his column will be taken over by "Olga Destinée."

Other Content

• Crossword: A crossword puzzle is listed.
• The Medium is Not the Message: An article by Terry Sanderson.
• Skeptic at Large: An entry by Wendy Grossman.
• Reviews: A section dedicated to book or product reviews.
• Letters: A section for reader correspondence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently promotes critical thinking and skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, paranormal phenomena, and alternative medicine. The magazine aims to debunk myths, expose quackery, and provide rational explanations for extraordinary claims. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific evidence and reasoned argument, as demonstrated by the critical analysis of Dianetics, Arguments to Design, and various forms of alternative healing and paranormal belief.

The publication relies on reader contributions, including articles, ideas, and clippings, indicating a community-driven approach to skeptical investigation. The magazine also serves as a platform for various skeptical organizations in the UK and internationally, fostering a network for like-minded individuals.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: March/April 1992
Volume: 13
Date: March/April 1992
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Price: £1.50

This issue of The Skeptic features several articles critically examining pseudoscientific claims and phenomena. The main cover story, "Taking it all too far," by Michael Heap, scrutinizes the "Synchro-Energiser," a device marketed for mental well-being. Other articles delve into the origins of Dianetics, the Loch Ness Monster myth, and the role of psychics in crime-solving.

Dianetics: A Synthesis of Previous Ideas

The article "Dianetics" by an unnamed author, argues that the theories presented in L. Ron Hubbard's Dianetics did not originate from his claimed 'many years of exact research' but were instead a synthesis of previous, uncredited works. The author points to similarities with the concept of 'abreaction' discussed by Nathaniel Thornton, and the idea of 'engrams' found in Richard Simon's 1923 book 'The Mneme.' Alfred Korzybski's writings are also mentioned as having significant overlap with Dianetics, with former followers of Dianetics noting the similarity. The article highlights that the word 'engram' itself is listed in the Oxford English Dictionary as deriving from Simon's work. Furthermore, Norbert Wiener's 1948 book 'Cybernetics,' which compares the human mind to a computer, predates Dianetics and shares concepts like 'affective tone' scales, which Dianetics also uses. The author concludes that Hubbard was likely aware of this research, despite not always acknowledging it. The article also criticizes Dianetics for making outlandish, unsubstantiated claims, such as the possibility of curing cancer, eradicating colds, improving IQ, extending life, and achieving total recall, none of which are scientifically proven.

The Synchro-Energiser: A Pseudoscientific Panacea?

Michael Heap's article, "Taking it all too far," examines the "Synchro-Energiser," a device from Synchro-Tech of Cleveland, Ohio. This device, which involves wearing goggles and earphones, claims to assist users in achieving states of tranquility, creativity, and mental balance, and even cure phobias and improve sexual functioning. Heap criticizes the device's marketing, which extends scientific concepts like 'force,' 'energy,' 'vibrations,' and 'electromagnetic field' beyond their valid applications. He questions the claim of a third type of stimulation ('light/sound and electromagnetic stimulation') and points out that a person cannot 'hear' through goggles. The article debunks the notion that stimulating the brain with specific EEG frequency bands directly creates corresponding mental states, explaining that the relationship is more complex and influenced by expectancy. Heap also identifies factual errors, such as the equivalence drawn between stimulating the ears and stimulating the brain hemispheres separately. He argues that the brain functions as an integrated unit, and the concept of 'left-brain/right-brain' thinking is largely misplaced. The article dismisses claims of 'total awareness,' 'enhanced cognition,' and 'brain balancing' as lacking any basis in neurophysiology or neuropsychology. Heap concludes that the principles at work involve extending ideas and methods beyond their demonstrated effectiveness, a common practice in various treatment systems, including pseudoscientific ones.

Brainwashing a Skeptic: Escape from a Cult

Arthur Chappell recounts his personal experience of being recruited into the Divine Light Mission (DLM), a Hindu-rooted cult, in May 1981. Despite being an atheist and skeptical of religion, he was drawn in during a period of personal despair following his father's death and unemployment. Chappell describes how the cult used 'Heavenly Deception,' inviting him to a lecture on 'Transcendental Meditation' which turned out to be discourses about Guru Maharaj Ji. He details the esoteric jargon, the hostility towards Christian teachings, and the relentless attention from cult members. He was eventually 'hooked' despite his doubts. Chappell explains that DLM members are sworn to celibacy, and he was to remain so for four and a half years. He recounts how Maharaj Ji's support waned after he married an American air-hostess and was renounced by his mother. Chappell describes his intense display of questions and doubts being squashed, with DLM theology stating that 'thinking is a delusion of the Maya.' He was told to accept Maharaj Ji at face value and to stop questioning. He describes his mental disintegration, becoming aggressive and withdrawn, and losing interest in anything other than DLM. He eventually received 'proof' of Maharaj Ji's divinity through a 'meditation' technique involving focusing on the Third Eye, which he later realized was a form of drug-induced hallucination. Chappell details other techniques used, such as 'Music Meditation' and a hyperventilational breathing discipline called 'Holy Name breathing.' He states that the cult's mind-bending methods stifle skepticism, leading to mental atrophication. Chappell eventually left DLM in mid-1985, finding that addictive meditation effects caused involuntary trances. He pursued writing and a degree that included a dissertation on cults, and now helps others break free from cults through groups like Family Action, Information and Rescue (FAIR).

The Medium is Not the Message: Fighting Crime with the Psychics

Terry Sanderson's article questions the effectiveness of psychics in assisting police investigations. He references a television mini-series about the 'Hillside Stranglers' where a medium's vague information was initially dismissed but later found to have some accuracy. Sanderson notes that claims by psychics about locating kidnap victims or hidden bodies are common, but often unverified. He cites a Scotland Yard report from 1990 that monitored London's major investigation pools and found no cases where psychics offered effective help or were invited to assist. Even Tony Ortzen, editor of Psychic News, admits that many mediums exploit situations, particularly the grief of the bereaved, by making opportunistic claims. Sanderson argues that while spiritualism might be appealing, it poses little threat to the criminal fraternity. He questions why, if mediums can contact the deceased, they cannot provide answers to profound cosmic questions or resolve literary mysteries like the unfinished Dickens novel.

Who Invented the Loch Ness Monster?

Steuart Campbell investigates the origins of the Loch Ness Monster legend. He refers to Henry Bauer's research, which suggests the monster was an invention of journalists. Bauer contacted 'Lester Smith,' who claimed to have run a publicity service in London in the early 1930s with two partners. 'Smith' (later revealed to be Digby George Gerahty) stated that they arranged for the Loch Ness Monster to be sighted to generate publicity for a group of hotels in the area, and that this was hatched in a pub. Bauer implies that the false report was linked to the Mackays, who leased the Drumnadrochit Hotel and whose sighting was reported in the Inverness Courier in May 1933. This report, conveyed by Alex Campbell, is seen as the start of the modern myth. However, Campbell's investigation into Gerahty's claims suggests that Gerahty had nothing to do with the 1933 reports and was claiming credit where it was not due. Gerahty, who was Director of Canadian Trade Publicity in Great Britain, may have run a publicity agency 'on the side.' Campbell concludes that it was likely Alex Campbell who distorted and exaggerated the Mackays' modest report, and that Gerahty's claims were an attempt to earn a fee. The article also notes that the hotel was owned by brewers and changed hands in 1935, contradicting 'Smith's' timeline.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of The Skeptic consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards claims of paranormal phenomena, pseudoscientific practices, and unsubstantiated theories. The articles dissect and debunk claims related to Dianetics, the Synchro-Energiser, psychic abilities, and the Loch Ness Monster legend, emphasizing the lack of scientific evidence and the tendency for such claims to be based on misinterpretations, fabrications, or exploitation of public credulity. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking, scientific validation, and a rejection of claims that lack empirical support. The magazine aims to expose what it views as 'balderdash' and 'quackery,' encouraging readers to approach extraordinary claims with skepticism and a demand for evidence.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue Date: March/April 1992
Volume: 6
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Skeptic at Large by Wendy M Grossman

Wendy M Grossman's column, "No one knows anything," reflects on the unreliability of predictions, particularly in the context of elections. She notes how media outlets, like Sky News, invite astrologers to predict outcomes, questioning the validity of such claims. Grossman highlights the tendency to rely on historical patterns for political predictions, citing a journalist's complaint that this stifles debate. She quotes William Goldman's assertion that "NO ONE KNOWS ANYTHING" regarding the film industry, extending this to journalists, bookmakers, campaign managers, opinion pollsters, psychics, and senior corporate executives.

Grossman reviews a folder of her own 'Prediction Track' from 1987/1988 to assess past predictions. She details predictions made by Jim Elliott (assassination attempt on Prince Charles), Zak Martin (U2 member loss, economic recovery, political shifts in Ireland, royal marital problems), Stephen Alexander (Jeffrey Archer as Prime Minister), and Jonathan Cainer (Gabriela Sabatini winning Wimbledon, house prices rising, 'Fergie's' helicopter incident).

She then references "The Experts Speak" by Christopher Cerf and Victor Navasky, which compiles authoritative misinformation. Examples include an executive's view that Ronald Reagan lacked a presidential look, Thomas J Watson's prediction of a limited market for computers, and the infamous Chicago Tribune headline "Dewey Defeats Truman" when Harry S. Truman actually won the presidency. Grossman concludes by humorously predicting another Prime Minister for the UK election and deferring a US prediction.

Reviews

Catalogue of errors

*Edgar Evans Cayce and Hugh Lynn Cayce, The Outer Limits of Edgar Cayce's Power*

Les Francis reviews this book, which examines instances where Edgar Cayce, known as 'the sleeping prophet', was wrong in his 'psychic readings' between 1901 and 1945. The authors, Cayce's sons, attempt to provide plausible explanations for his failures, such as attributing incorrect predictions to 'mental static' or 'thought forms of other people'. Francis finds these rationalizations unintentionally hilarious, particularly the explanation for Cayce's incorrect information regarding the Lindbergh kidnapping. Despite the book's focus on errors, Francis notes that Cayce was likely an altruistic man convinced of his gifts, and hopes his medical diagnoses were more accurate than his predictions.

A Glastonbury collection

Frances Howard-Gordon, *Glastonbury: Maker of Myths*; Geoffrey Ashe, *The Glastonbury Tor Maze*; John Michell, *New Light on the Ancient Mystery of Glastonbury*; Moyra Caldecott, *The Green Lady and The King of Shadows*; Lynne Elstob and Anne Howes, *The Glastonbury Festivals*.

This review by Hobgoblin covers a collection of books from Gothic Image related to Glastonbury. *Glastonbury: Maker of Myths* is described as a guide to the area's mystical sites. *The Glastonbury Tor Maze* by Geoffrey Ashe proposes that terracing on the Tor is a remnant of a prehistoric maze. *New Light on the Ancient Mystery of Glastonbury* by John Michell is a speculative work. Moyra Caldecott's book is a novel. *The Glastonbury Festivals* is a pictorial record of rock festivals. Hobgoblin notes that while some books are credulous, they can serve as starting points for understanding the appeal of Glastonbury. He finds Michell's work speculative but not dismissible, and Caldecott's novel weak in style. The festival book is recommended as a souvenir for those who attended.

Holy gossip

*Kenneth L Woodward, Making Saints*

Hobgoblin reviews Kenneth L Woodward's book on the process of canonisation in the Catholic Church. He contrasts it with a humorous portrayal by 'Father' Guido Sarducci. The book is described as an intriguing, though less humorous, introduction to Vatican politics and the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. While informative about the process, the author finds it limited in scope regarding miracles and not very penetrating from a skeptical viewpoint. Despite its fascinating details, it is unlikely to be of significant interest to skeptics.

Cursing the Devil?

*Robert D Hicks, In Pursuit of Satan: The Police and the Occult*

Martin Hempstead reviews Robert Hicks' book, which debunks beliefs in 'Satanic' sexual abuse of children. Hempstead finds Hicks useful in cautioning against over-credulity but criticizes the book for being overly biased and inaccurate on details. He questions Hicks' methodology and his unclear focus, noting that Hicks seems to deny ritualistic abuse, child sex rings, and sexual abuse itself, which are widely accepted social problems. Hempstead argues that Hicks undermines evidence for 'Satanic' abuse, but acknowledges the difficulty in proving such claims. He also points out that Hicks is scathing about spoken evidence from alleged survivors.

Body and karma

*Bruce Thomas, The Body of Time and the Energies of Being*; *Penny Thornton, The Forces of Destiny; Reincarnation, Karma and Astrology*

Mike Rutter reviews two 'New Age' books. Thomas's book attempts to integrate Gurdjieff's philosophy with Platonic tradition, Freud, and concepts like the holographic universe. Rutter suggests Thomas is describing 'peak experiences' and would have preferred a discussion of their psychological origins. Thornton's book traces reincarnation theories and adapts karmic theory to astrology, confusing reincarnation with pre-existence and mistranslating biblical terms. Rutter notes Thornton cites various figures and theories but fails to reference skeptical criticisms. He finds both books poetically written but uncritical, and suggests that focusing on psychological benefits rather than objective truth might mislead readers.

Monkey business

*Kendrick Frazier (Ed.), The Hundredth Monkey and Other Paradigms of the Paranormal*

Dave Snowdon reviews this collection of 43 essays from *The Skeptical Inquirer*, covering various aspects of the paranormal. The book aims to introduce skepticism and critical thinking techniques to counter the widespread belief in paranormal phenomena. Snowdon notes the book's consideration of topics like parapsychology, medical controversies, astrology, UFOs, and spontaneous human combustion. He praises the book's skeptical arsenal for refuting paranormal claims and providing insight into why these phenomena gain credence. The book is described as a useful, informative, and readable resource for anyone interested in a skeptical viewpoint.

Arthurian trivial pursuits

*Ronan Coghlan, The Encyclopaedia of Arthurian Legends*

Chris Lilley reviews Ronan Coghlan's book, describing it as an A-Z of Arthurian trivia rather than a comprehensive encyclopedia. While it may help those with limited knowledge of Arthurian legends, the emphasis is on presenting characters rather than concepts. Lilley notes the introductory chapter covers the growth of the legends and their popularity, but criticizes the author for being uncomfortable with modern developments and for his views on spiritual hunger and the rise of fantasy novels. Lilley questions the relevance of the studies presented if archetypal content is independent of historical fact, suggesting that popular culture like 'Star Wars' could provide this more easily.

Hypnosis: what's in a word?

*Robert A Baker, They Call It Hypnosis*

Chris Lilley reviews Robert A Baker's book, which argues that 'hypnosis' is not a distinct state but rather a combination of social compliance, relaxation, suggestibility, expectation, and imagination. The author is critical of the concept of 'trance' and suggests that hypnosis can be used effectively for various problems. Lilley finds the book a useful presentation of the 'nonstate' view but questions whether the state-nonstate dichotomy is misleading, as relaxation itself can be considered an altered state. He concludes that the book is unlikely to convert adherents of the state position.

Letters

Irrational thoughts

John S. Green defends 'irrationalists' against Ray Ward's assertion about the scientific validity of IQ tests. Green questions the existence of an objective reality and an identifiable entity called 'intelligence' that can be objectively measured by IQ tests. He suggests 'intelligence' is a 'bucket concept' akin to 'schizophrenia' and that human behavior is rarely genuinely 'intelligent'.

Measure for measure

Nick Beard responds to Ray Ward's claims about IQ tests, agreeing they are accurate for measuring ability to perform IQ tests but questioning what else they measure (e.g., ability to be happy, rich, or imaginative). Beard criticizes the elitism of Mensa and finds it disconcerting for a 'skeptic' to chastise someone for changing their mind.

Miracles under scrutiny

Steuart Campbell addresses Daniel O'Hara's contention that Jesus dared not use supernatural power. Campbell cites Matthew 26:53 and Deuteronomy 6:16 as evidence that Jesus was constrained from using his power to fulfill prophecies. He argues that while some Gospel accounts may be invented, it doesn't mean all miracle stories are, and absolute skepticism is not justified without reason. Campbell also comments on Hilary Evans' article about filing 'flying saucers', stating that all man-made illustrations are suspect and should be treated as fiction.

Erratum

This section corrects a printing error in a previous issue's letter from Daniel O'Hara, clarifying that while the 'Temptation Stories' show Jesus abjuring self-promotional miracles, the Gospels generally represent him as working miracles that demonstrate his supernatural power.

Back Issues

This section lists available back issues of The Skeptic magazine from Volume 1 (1987) to Volume 6 (1992), detailing the articles published in each issue. Topics covered include pseudoscience, paranormal phenomena, skepticism, UFOs, astrology, hypnosis, and historical controversies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic are the critical examination of paranormal claims, the unreliability of predictions and pseudoscience, and the promotion of scientific skepticism and critical thinking. The magazine consistently reviews books and articles that challenge pseudoscientific beliefs and offers a platform for reasoned debate on topics ranging from psychic phenomena and UFOs to historical mysteries and the nature of consciousness. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a preference for evidence-based reasoning.