Skeptic - 1993 - Vol 7 No 6

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 7 Number 6
Date: November/December 1993
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Price: £1.85
Cover Headline: Science and Nonsense

This issue of "The Skeptic" magazine, titled "Science and Nonsense," explores a variety of topics at the intersection of belief, mystery, and scientific inquiry. The cover features a microscope within a circle of astrological symbols, suggesting a theme of applying scientific scrutiny to esoteric subjects.

Articles and Features

Hilary Evans' Paranormal Picture Gallery: The saint who never was

This section details the story of Saint Philomena, whose cult gained immense popularity in the 19th century with numerous reported miracles. However, further archaeological research in the late 19th century revealed that the inscription identifying her had been misinterpreted, and no such person existed. The Vatican formally forbade the cult in 1961, acknowledging that millions had been victims of a delusion.

Contents

• The contents page lists a range of articles, including:
• "A Celestial Mystery Revisited" by Brian Haines, examining the Mary Celeste.
• "Who's That on the Line?" by Robert E McGrath, discussing authentication of computer and psychic channels.
• "Close Encounters of the Cult Kind" by Arthur Chappell.
• "Dissecting the Soul" by John Clarke.
• "Where Not to Look for Science Books" by Daniel O'Hara.
• "Science and Nonsense" by Gilbert Shapiro.
• "Psychic Diary" by Toby Howard.
• "Skeptic at Large" by Wendy Grossman.

Hits and Misses: Amongst the angels

This piece by Steve Donnelly discusses the growing interest in angels, noting that books on the subject were popular at the end of the previous year. It suggests that angels might replace UFOs as the primary focus of paranormal belief. The article quotes Rowan Williams, who suggests the idea of other intellectual beings in the universe is not silly, and Malcolm Godwin, who posits that an angel is an integral part of ourselves.

Hits and Misses: You don't have to be mad

This section addresses the psychological state of individuals who claim unusual experiences, such as hearing God or being abducted by aliens. It cites two studies: one published in The Times and another in New Scientist, which found no evidence that these individuals are psychologically disturbed. However, they were more likely to hold beliefs in reincarnation, astrology, and UFOs.

Hits and Misses: ...but it helps

This part of the "Hits and Misses" column discusses a proposal for a European UFO observatory, which was met with skepticism by Euro-sceptic MP Sir Teddy Taylor. The article mentions that the European Parliament's trade and technology subcommittee had given the go-ahead for the project and that MEPs were investigating sightings. Sir Teddy Taylor also raised questions about unidentified objects and aliens in the asteroid belt.

The King is dead

This article humorously discusses a piece of software called 'Elvis Detector' designed to detect the presence of Elvis Presley's spirit. It notes the software's disclaimer about the transient nature of spirits and mentions plans for a version that could detect the spirits of Roy Orbison and MC Hammer.

Whisper who dares...

This piece introduces an electronic rosary device invented by Father Pasquale Silla. The device, sold for about £30, measures prayers and plays religious music. The author humorously suggests the next advance should be a fax-modem for a direct line to God.

Born free

This section discusses cryptozoological phenomena, focusing on the Loch Ness Monster and the Beast of Bodmin. It mentions a blurred photograph of the Beast of Bodmin published in The Sun and discusses sightings of a large, dark feline on Bodmin Moor. The article also touches on animal mutilations attributed to the Beast and speculates on its origins, including extraterrestrial possibilities. It also mentions a review suggesting Nessie might be a Baltic sturgeon.

Pet therapy

This short piece describes the existence of pet therapists in the US, with fees ranging from $150 to $400 for a three-hour consultation. A veterinarian is quoted as saying, "The pets aren't crazy. The humans are crazy."

A Celestial Mystery Revisited

Brian Haines examines the story of the Mary Celeste, arguing that it is largely fiction, popularized by Arthur Conan Doyle. He explains that while a ship named Mary Celeste did exist, it was not the 'ghost ship' of legend. The article details the ship's history, including its original name 'Amazon,' its wreck, and subsequent re-registration. Haines suggests that the legend was embellished by Doyle's storytelling. He also discusses the actual findings when the ship was discovered: it was found sailing under minimal sail, with no physical damage, and no sign of the crew. The missing items were navigational instruments, suggesting an intention for an independent voyage.

Who's That on the Line?

Robert E McGrath explores the problem of authenticating messages, drawing parallels between computer communications and psychic channeling. He explains that in computer systems, authentication relies on 'shared secrets' and 'trusted' authorities to verify the sender's identity. Similarly, for psychic messages, the challenge is to determine if the source is genuine. The article discusses methods like prearranged secret codes (used by Houdini) and linguistic analysis to identify the source's unconscious 'signature.' It notes that authenticating non-human sources like aliens or spirits is particularly difficult.

How to authenticate psychic communications

This section, continuing the theme from the previous article, delves deeper into authenticating psychic messages. It discusses how messages from the deceased are often emotionally compelling and may contain verifiable details. However, it stresses the need for critical evaluation to ensure the information wasn't obtained through mundane means like 'cold reading.' The article also highlights the difficulty in authenticating messages from unknown or non-human entities.

Other approaches to Investigating psychic channels

This part of the article suggests that some investigators judge channeled messages based on their content and artistic merit, rather than the source's identity. While this approach might be acceptable for psychic messages, it offers little to computer engineering. It also touches on the potential for computer viruses if systems are designed with a 'if it looks OK, do it' mentality.

Lessons for computer engineering

This section reflects on the lessons computer engineers can learn from psychic investigations. It points out that mathematical authentication schemes have limits and rely on assumptions that may not hold true when dealing with non-material or super-human intelligences. The article suggests that future computer systems will face similar ambiguities and complexities as psychic investigations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is skepticism towards paranormal claims and the application of scientific reasoning to unexplained phenomena. The magazine consistently questions extraordinary assertions, seeking rational explanations and highlighting instances where beliefs have been based on misinterpretation or fiction. The editorial stance is clearly one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to approach claims of the supernatural, psychic abilities, and even historical mysteries with a healthy dose of doubt and a demand for evidence. The parallels drawn between computer security and psychic authentication underscore the magazine's commitment to logical analysis and the identification of potential deceptions or errors in perception.

This issue of The Skeptic, dated November/December 1993, features several articles that critically examine phenomena often associated with the paranormal and pseudoscientific beliefs, contrasting them with scientific principles and methodologies. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, encouraging readers to apply critical thinking to claims of the extraordinary.

Close Encounters of the Cult Kind

Arthur Chappell's article, "Close Encounters of the Cult Kind," explores the world of UFO cults. Chappell distinguishes between ordinary UFO spotters and those who become part of cults, emphasizing that many sightings are misperceptions of terrestrial objects. He critiques figures like George Adamski and Claude Vorhilan, founders of UFO cults, highlighting their claims and the characteristics of their followers. The article points out that UFO cults often share traits with established religious cults, including fanatical leaders and a sense of mission. Chappell also discusses how hypnotic regression is used to 'discover' past UFO encounters, questioning the reliability of such methods, particularly when leading questions are employed. He concludes that while the existence of UFOs is a matter for individual belief, UFO cults are a concern due to their similarity to recognized cults, and suggests that ex-UFO cultists should be welcomed into support groups.

Dissecting the Soul

John Clarke, in "Dissecting the Soul," tackles the philosophical question of whether humans are corporeal or ethereal, focusing on the nature of consciousness and the concept of a soul. Clarke begins by clarifying that consciousness is the 'you' that is aware, distinct from possessions. He argues that experiences like Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) and out-of-body phenomena rely heavily on memory, which he posits is corporeal and tied to the brain. Clarke suggests that consciousness itself might be the only truly ethereal aspect, but that memory, personality, and awareness of self are dependent on physical processes. He questions the idea of a soul surviving death, suggesting that without memory, consciousness would be akin to ignorance. Clarke also touches upon the fragility of memory, citing personal experiences with aphasia and the effects of brain damage, to support his view that the mind is fundamentally linked to the physical brain.

Where Not to Look for Science Books

Daniel O'Hara's piece, "Where Not to Look for Science Books," humorously recounts his frustrating experience trying to find popular science books in bookshops in Guernsey. He notes the prevalence of fiction and occult literature over scientific texts, illustrating this with an anecdote where Richard Dawkins' "The Blind Watchmaker" was classified under 'Fiction'. O'Hara contrasts this with his later success in finding science books in London, highlighting the uneven distribution of scientific literature in retail spaces and the potential for misclassification by booksellers.

Science and Nonsense

Gilbert Shapiro, in "Science and Nonsense," addresses the challenge of distinguishing fact from fancy, particularly in the context of astrology and other pseudoscientific beliefs. Shapiro, a physicist, explains that scientific theories are provisional and subject to revision, but that science has a hallmark of admitting error, which is absent in other belief systems. He argues that the scientific approach seeks simple explanations and relies on empirical evidence and rigorous testing. Shapiro criticizes the uncritical acceptance of horoscopes and other pseudoscientific claims, even by public figures. He emphasizes that scientific truth is not absolute but is based on the best available evidence and is reproducible. Shapiro contrasts the scientific method with the approach of pseudo-scientists who often start with a conclusion and seek evidence to support it, likening this to religious belief. He praises scientists like Einstein and Hawking for admitting mistakes, and contrasts this with the lack of self-correction in fields like astrology, citing a study that showed astrologers performed no better than chance in matching descriptions to birth dates.

Psychic Diary

Toby Howard's "Psychic Diary" column, "Getting to the root of the problem," discusses the historical and occult significance of the mandrake plant. Howard recounts finding a specimen at a grocery store and reflects on the plant's long association with magic, folklore, and aphrodisiac properties. He details ancient methods for uprooting the mandrake, which involved elaborate rituals and even the sacrifice of a dog, and its purported magical uses as a talisman or for love magic. Howard notes that the true mandrake is not indigenous to the UK, and that local plants like white or black bryony are often mistaken for it. He concludes with a lighthearted remark about sticking to potatoes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the importance of critical thinking and scientific skepticism in evaluating claims, particularly those related to the paranormal, pseudoscience, and cults. The magazine consistently promotes the scientific method as the most reliable means of understanding the world, emphasizing evidence, reproducibility, and intellectual honesty. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry and against unsubstantiated beliefs, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on empirical evidence rather than faith or anecdotal accounts. The articles collectively advocate for a clear demarcation between scientific understanding and pseudoscientific or cultic thinking.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: November/December 1993
Volume: 7
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Language: English
Cover Headline: Skeptic at Large

This issue of The Skeptic, published bimonthly, features a range of articles and reviews focusing on skepticism, pseudoscience, and critical thinking. The main cover story by Wendy M Grossman, titled 'Skeptic at Large: Pseudoscience in the FOREST', humorously suggests reclassifying smoking as a religion to circumvent anti-smoking measures and explores the broader implications for other addictions and self-help movements. The issue also includes several book reviews, letters to the editor, and a section on back issues.

Pseudoscience in the FOREST

Wendy M Grossman's lead article satirically proposes that smoking be reclassified as a religion. She argues that this would shield smokers from government intervention, such as setting targets for reducing smoking or taxation, by framing it as religious persecution or discrimination. Grossman draws parallels between the tobacco industry's past claims and the arguments of some religious groups, suggesting that the 'health fascist' label is often applied to those who advocate for public health measures. She extends the analogy to other addictions and self-help movements, noting that many 12-step programs already rely on a 'Higher Power' and shared experiences rather than scientific evidence. The article critiques the tobacco industry's marketing strategies and draws a comparison to the Catholic Church's stance on birth control, suggesting that the creationist approach to evolution is a similar form of pseudoscientific reasoning.

Reviews

All the facts-allegedly

Peter Piper reviews Rosemary Ellen Guiley's 'Encyclopedia of Mystical and Paranormal Experience'. While acknowledging Guiley's intention to be open-minded, Piper notes that the book, despite its subject matter, attempts to present information with some critical distance. Guiley is credited with not being an across-the-board believer, questioning Kirlian photography and noting the lack of scientific evidence for auras. The review highlights the book's usefulness as a reference for paranormal phenomena, occult groups, and cults, though Piper points out that the challenge of distinguishing 'real facts' from opinions remains. He recommends the book as a way for skeptics to understand their 'enemies'.

Close encounters of the cult kind

Steuart Campbell reviews 'UFOs The Final Answer?', edited by David and Therese Marie Barclay. Campbell expresses skepticism about the book, noting that the editors are relatively unknown and that the contributors are not experts. He criticizes the book for its lack of rigorous analysis, particularly in Arthur Tomlinson's claim about the ancient pedigree of UFOs and Ken Phillips' discussion of the 'Anamnesis Protocol'. Campbell finds the book to be a poorly written collection of views that does little to solve the 'UFO mystery', with numerous spelling and grammatical errors.

The story of God

Robert E McGrath reviews Karen Armstrong's 'A History of God: The 4000-Year Quest of Judaism, Christianity and Islam'. McGrath explains that Armstrong approaches the idea of 'one God' from an intellectual historian's perspective, exploring how concepts of God have developed and contended within major monotheistic faiths. The review highlights Armstrong's distinction between the 'God of the philosophers' (a distant first cause) and the 'God of the mystics' (an immanent, personal experience). McGrath notes that Armstrong shows how ideas about God have played out against cultural and political backgrounds, and that modern secularism emerged partly from the adoption of a 'God of the philosophers' conception that was challenged by scientific discoveries. The review concludes by stating that Armstrong's work contributes to understanding human needs and religious tolerance.

Cross-referenced consciousness

Malcolm Shute reviews Israel Rosenfield's 'The Strange, Familiar, and Forgotten: an Anatomy of Consciousness'. Shute notes that the book, which avoids typical New Age topics, presents a scientific text arguing that human consciousness, perception, and memory are indivisible. Rosenfield's theory suggests that the brain constantly scans sensory data, and that perception is structured relative to a slowly changing body-image. Shute finds the model appealing for its storage efficiency but is less convinced by Rosenfield's emphasis on language's centrality to consciousness. He also points out that some clinical data provided only partial support for the conclusions. Despite some reservations, Shute considers the book valuable for making him rethink his ideas on consciousness, though he questions the price for the coverage provided.

Getting away from it all

Adrian West reviews Stafford Whiteaker's 'The Good Retreat Guide'. West describes the book as a guide to over 300 places for retreats in Britain, Ireland, France, and Spain, offering an alternative to the stresses of modern life. He explains that retreats can be viewed as holidays designed to facilitate inner peace and deeper self-experience. The book provides details on the centers' activities, religious affiliations, accommodation, and booking information. West notes that good retreat centers typically offer peaceful surroundings, a positive atmosphere, and a routine to relieve the burden of decision-making. He mentions that many places are monasteries or abbeys, but alternative traditions are also represented. A minor criticism is the lack of information on how the author obtained the details for each entry. Overall, West recommends the book as a useful introduction for those considering a retreat.

The frontiers of tolerance

Hilary Evans reviews R A Gilbert's 'Casting the First Stone: the Hypocrisy of Religious Fundamentalism and its Threat to Society'. Evans highlights Gilbert's argument that while fundamentalists believe they possess unique insight into God's intentions, their beliefs often lead to shoddy thinking, hypocrisy, and the spread of unfounded allegations. Gilbert argues that the dogmatism of fundamentalists poses a threat to societal liberties, citing examples of false accusations of ritual abuse and the exploitation of politicians by dubious causes. Evans praises the book for its passionate yet sober examination of activities on the frontiers of tolerance, advocating for tolerance of all beliefs except intolerance itself.

Science as art

John Yates reviews Andrew Wilkes' edited book 'On the Nature of Things: The Scientific Photography of Fritz Goro'. Yates describes Goro's photographs as stunning and mind-boggling, spanning various scientific fields. He notes that the book includes commentaries by eminent scientists and argues that such works are vital in showing that science is not dull and artless, countering the media's tendency to present scientists and artists as separate types of people. Yates praises the book for refuting the 'tedious fallacy' of polarising science and art.

Made in the USA

Paul Johnson reviews Delos B McKown's 'The Mythmaker's Magic'. Johnson explains that the book attacks Scientific Creationists by demonstrating the unscientific and illogical nature of biblical inerrancy, rather than debunking physical claims. It is aimed at school teachers and governors. The book consists of essays on biblical aspects, logic, and US constitutional law. Johnson highlights a chapter on how to parody creationist dogma by creating a fictional three-creation Earth. While finding the book interesting and useful, Johnson criticizes McKown's writing style, describing it as having long, convoluted sentences and parentheses that make it difficult to read.

Letters

A fair claim

Hugh Farey writes in response to Andrew Colman's article on Marilyn vos Savant's IQ. Farey argues that Colman's research was insufficient and that the Guinness Book of Records explains how the 228 IQ score was achieved by applying the definition used for children. He suggests that Colman's rejection of this method as 'old-fashioned' is unwarranted and that the original definition of IQ for children was still widely used. Farey also notes that vos Savant achieved a score representing a performance level of 1 in 10,000,000 on another test, suggesting a Wechsler IQ of around 175.

A call for care

Martin Hempstead writes that Andrew Colman's article on Marilyn vos Savant's IQ is flawed because it assumes a normal distribution for IQ results. Hempstead argues that a normal distribution cannot be assumed for IQ, as it is bounded from below and above, unlike a true normal distribution. He suggests that a population component of geniuses, perhaps due to genetic mutation, could explain such high scores without relying on a normal distribution. Hempstead urges skeptics to be more careful in their argumentation.

No extra light

Steuart Campbell writes in response to Chris Nash's review of a book on the Dead Sea Scrolls. Campbell cites Theodore H Gaster's research, which concluded that the Scrolls were scriptures of an Essene community at Qumran, composed between 170 and 68 BC. He states that the Scrolls contain no anticipation of Christian doctrines and do not mention a martyred Messiah. Campbell concludes that the Scrolls are not Christian documents and shed little light on early Christianity.

Back issues sought

Ian Cooper is seeking to purchase complete volumes 1, 2, and 3 of The Skeptic.

Subscribe to The Skeptic

This section provides subscription rates for The Skeptic magazine, detailing prices for the UK, Europe, and the rest of the world, along with information on how to order back issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently champions critical thinking and scientific skepticism, actively debunking pseudoscience, paranormal claims, and unfounded beliefs across various domains, including religion, ufology, and psychology. The magazine provides reviews of books and articles that either support or challenge skeptical viewpoints, often featuring detailed critiques of pseudoscientific arguments and methodologies. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and against dogma, intolerance, and the uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims. The publication aims to educate its readers and encourage a more rational approach to understanding the world.