Skeptic - 1994 - Vol 8 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 8 Number 1, published in 1994, features a prominent cover story on "Crop Circles: The Full Story." It also includes articles on parapsychological research in the UK, the dangers of New Age 'Crystal Healing,' and skeptical predictions for 1994. The price is £1.85.

Hilary Evans' Paranormal Picture Gallery

This section, authored by Hilary Evans, discusses "Otherworldly allies." It draws parallels between ancient myths, such as the interference of gods in Homer's Iliad, and the belief in supernatural assistance during World War One, citing the Angels of Mons. The article mentions the French figure Jeanne d'Arc and introduces Therese of Lisieux, who reportedly appeared in the French trenches in 1916 to aid ambulance men. The story of Therese's appearance was published in 'Le Pelerin' in 1923, potentially to further her cause, and she was canonized in 1925. Evans concludes by questioning whether this story was invented, suggesting that only a 'skeptic with a heart of stone' would suspect so. Hilary Evans is identified as co-proprietor of the Mary Evans Picture Library.

Contents

The contents page lists the editors as Dr Steve Donnelly and Toby Howard. Various staff are listed for subscriptions, typesetting, typing, cartoons, proof-reading, special consultancy, publicity, and printing. The issue features several articles:

• Hits and Misses by Steve Donnelly (page 4)
• Cereology Is Dead—Long Live Cerealogy! by Robin Allen (page 6)
• Parapsychology in the UK by Tony Lawrence (page 13)
• Crystal Dangers by Ian Plimer (page 15)
• Skeptical Predictions for 1994 by Marjorie Mackintosh (page 17)
• Hello, Earth Talking! by Robert McGrath (page 18)
• Far Too Green By Half by Russell Dear (page 19)
• Psychic Diary by Toby Howard (page 20)
• Skeptic at Large by Wendy Grossman (page 21)
• Reviews (page 22)
• Letters (page 27)

The magazine is published bimonthly from Manchester, UK. The ISSN is 0959-5228. A thank-you is extended to clipping contributors, and the front cover is credited to Cheesfoot Head, Hampshire, 1993, by F C Taylor/Fortean Picture Library.

Hits and Misses

Allo, allo, allo... by Steve Donnelly discusses a hoax radio broadcast in Yorkshire in December, where listeners to scanner radios heard police transmissions indicating alien landings. The report, from The Guardian, details how police investigated and encountered individuals claiming to have seen 'big blue men.' The operation, 'Operation Marconi,' aimed to catch criminals using information from radio transmissions. The article notes that while owning and listening to police broadcasts is legal in Britain, acting on such information is an offense. Donnelly speculates that regression hypnosis might reveal memories of alien encounters.

Here we go again warns of a prediction for the end of the world and the imminent reappearance of Christ, presented as a youth cult figure. This information is from a tract titled 'A Little Scroll Unrolled' by Ali A Shah, available for £5.50. The tract reportedly includes the name and address of the new Messiah and predicts worldwide catastrophes, a reversal of Earth's rotation, a new purple sun, and a winged horse with a human face.

What's in a name? reports on a father in Japan who is suing to register his son's name as 'Akuma' (Devil). Akishima city authorities near Tokyo refused, citing potential ridicule and discrimination. The father insists the name will make his son 'strong.' A law professor noted that the name's characters are on the authorized list, making the city's refusal legally challenging.

Two by two discusses claims of Noah's Ark remains found near Mount Ararat. An article in The Observer mentions the Turkish government designating the site as an area of special archaeological interest. A team of scientists discovered a buried, 'ship-like object' with dimensions close to those specified in Genesis. They also identified 'drogue-stones' used to stabilize ancient ships. American shipwreck specialist David Fasold reported clear radar imagery of what appear to be fossilized remains of the upper deck.

Volume 8 Number 1 - Page 5

Noah's Ark (continued) mentions that claims of Noah's Ark discoveries are regular. The article contrasts the Encyclopaedia Britannica's 1768 stance on its factual existence with its 1911 description as a myth. It notes that expeditions to Turkey have continued, with a significant 'discovery' announced in August 1984 by Marvin Steffins, who claimed to have found samples of fossilized wood. However, Turkish authorities were not enthusiastic, stating the finds were merely rocks and earth. Gerald Larue, a professor of biblical archaeology, suggests that even if it were the Ark, it might be a replica built by Christians 3,000 years after the event.

Winter madness explores research from the Institute of Psychiatry in London on the causes of schizophrenia. Using MRI scans, researchers found that schizophrenics had significantly smaller brains, with a reduced amount of grey matter, particularly those born in winter. One theory suggests babies born in winter are more likely to be exposed to viruses in the womb. The article notes that astrological influences cannot be ruled out.

Unlucky for some examines the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th. Recent research by the Mid Downs Health Authority in West Sussex, analyzing traffic records for the southern M25, found that people were less likely to drive on Friday the 13th, but significantly more road accidents occurred on that date compared to Friday the 6th. Dr Tom Scanlon suggested increased anxiety or a sense of destiny might affect drivers' concentration.

Odds presents a statistic from the Daily Telegraph about the odds against dealing a bridge hand with all 13 spades being 158,753,389,899 to 1 against, noting that these are also the odds for any particular 13-card hand.

Steve Donnelly is identified as a physicist and reader in electronics and electrical engineering at the University of Salford.

Cereology Is Dead—Long Live Cerealogy!

Part 1 of a two-part history of the crop circle phenomenon by Robin Allen begins by defining 'Cerealogy' as the scientific study of crop circles. Allen reminisces about the fun of being a cerealogist in the summer of 1991, when the phenomenon was at its peak, with spectacular formations and widespread public and press interest. He describes how evidence seemed to support revolutionary hypotheses, and the field was poised for a scientific paradigm shift. However, this dream collapsed in the autumn of 1991 when Doug Bower and Dave Chorley claimed responsibility for starting the phenomenon years earlier. The press then declared all circles to be hoaxes.

Allen notes that despite this revelation, the circle phenomenon and cerealogy continued. 1992 and 1993 saw more circles, and cerealogy adapted, rationalizing the hoaxing revelations. He states that the field remains alive, though despondent, and that despite efforts, circles researchers have not won their battle against hoaxers.

The article then presents a puzzle related to the 'Bohemia Two' crop pictogram, which appeared in the summer of 1993 near Cheesefoot Head, Hampshire. This formation, described as a 'geometrically complex area of flattened wheat,' measured about 200' and formed in the early hours of August 1st at Chilcomb. It was observed to have a spiral pattern in the crop, with imperfect centers and linear avenues. The stems were laid with complexity, including braiding, and showed little damage. The formation had a sharp cutoff at the edges and some 'gap-seeking' effects. Richard Andrews, a crop circle investigator, authenticated it. Subtle energies were sensed by meditators, and RF anomalies were reported. The design was linked to the Barbury Castle pictogram of 1991.

Allen then lists various theories for the creation of crop circles, including atmospheric phenomena ('plasma vortex'), alien craft, psychic extraterrestrial projection, energy beyond materialist science, ley lines, poltergeists, fungal infection, helicopters, rampaging hedgehogs, military involvement, skeptics with garden rollers, and drunken yobbos with planks and string. He notes that while experts favored options (a), (b), and (c) (plasma vortex, alien craft, psychic projection), the public and some researchers leaned towards other explanations, especially after the 1991 revelations.

Volume 8 Number 1 - Page 7

Allen continues his analysis of cerealogy, stating that the field has not broadened its horizon, with many still believing in options (b) or (c) (alien craft or psychic projection). He reveals that 'Bohemia Two' was man-made, created by five 'yobbos' using a method pioneered by Doug and Dave: a stick-and-reins technique involving a loop of rope attached to a plank. This method, which involves trampling the crop, is described as not particularly strenuous and can be made more bearable with drinks and snacks. Allen expresses surprise that such crude methods can still fool some cerealogists, especially after public disclosures and hoaxing competitions. He notes that the Bohemia Two team had only made 'Bohemia One' the night before, a formation some described as 'dreadful' but which was authenticated by Richard Andrews.

He then discusses the division within cerealogy, with some researchers liking Bohemia Two but not Bohemia One, and others believing Bohemia One was genuine. Allen suggests that many cerealogists were impressed by neither formation. He posits that the confusion arises from the difficulty in distinguishing genuine circles from hoaxes, and that some researchers have adopted a stance of uncertainty. A growing belief is that the genuine phenomenon ceased after 1991, its 'Golden Age' having passed.

Volume 8 Number 1 - Page 8

Allen continues to explore the theories behind crop circles. He describes the 'plasma vortex' theory, attributed to Dr Terence Meaden, which posits a spinning mass of ionised air akin to ball lightning. Meaden also linked this phenomenon to the construction of Stonehenge. However, many cerealogists rejected 'Meadenism' and other rationalist explanations, seeking answers outside orthodox physics. Pat Delgado, a proponent of the 'Circles Phenomenon Research Group' (CPRG), suggested that circles might be related to the face on Mars or UFOs. Other researchers, including most members of the Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS), agreed that circles were not hoaxes but paranormal, though they remained open-minded about the specific cause, ranging from fairies to psychically-manipulated earth energies.

Fieldwork is described as central to cerealogy, involving visiting and analyzing circles. Experts would assess genuineness through visual inspection, 'little black boxes with flashing lights,' dowsing, or psychic abilities. Meaden claimed CERES had an 'instrumental test' for genuine circles, but did not detail it. If a circle passed the test, its structure would be analyzed for significant, un-hoaxable layering patterns.

Volume 8 Number 1 - Page 9

Allen continues his discussion of the 'Bohemia Two' formation, noting that while some found it 'dreadful,' it was authenticated by Richard Andrews, and even Colin Andrews reportedly stated that if it were man-made, it would undermine his notions about circles. An art critic grudgingly admitted that while it might have looked poor, it was 'extremely well-laid.'

Allen addresses the selective nature of enthusiasm for crop circles, noting that not all researchers were impressed by the Bohemia formations. He suggests that many rejected them not due to superior hoax-detection skills, but due to hypersensitivity and a suspicion that the genuine phenomenon has been swamped by fakes. This has led to a belief that the genuine phenomenon effectively ended after 1991. George Wingfield, editor of 'The Cerealogist,' is quoted as saying that since 1991, he has seen nothing but 'crap.' Wingfield's address at the 1993 Conference, which compared hoaxers to insects, was met with applause.

A Brief History of Cerealogy

This section, by Mary Evans/G T Meaden, provides a historical overview of cerealogy. It states that the belief in genuine circles stems from more than just a repudiation of hoaxes; researchers have claimed to possess convincing evidence for a non-human component. The article aims to place these claims within their historical context. The author apologizes for any flippancy and invites the reader back to the summer of 1991.

In the early nineties, the crop circle phenomenon was at its height, with the emergence of complex 'pictograms' in 1990 and their reappearance in 1991. Cerealogy had evolved into two camps: meteorological and mystical. Both agreed that not all circles were hoaxes, but differed on the cause. Dr Terence Meaden, head of Circles Effect Research (CERES), attributed circles to a 'plasma vortex,' a spinning mass of ionised air. Science did not recognize this phenomenon, and its supposed properties, such as flawless perfection, naturally engendered skepticism. Meaden, however, declared the evidence overwhelming for an atmospheric origin and attracted the attention of UFOlogists, who then declared the 'death of the UFO.' Meaden also linked crop circles to the construction of Stonehenge.

Most cerealogists, however, rejected 'Meadenism' and other rationalist discourse, seeking answers beyond orthodox physics. Pat Delgado, a leading figure in the Circles Phenomenon Research Group (CPRG), suggested circles could be related to the face on Mars or UFOs. Other researchers, like those in the nascent Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS), agreed that circles were paranormal but remained open-minded about the cause, considering theories from fairies to psychically-manipulated earth energies.

Fieldwork involved visiting and analyzing circles, assessing genuineness through visual inspection, instrumental tests, dowsing, or psychic abilities. Meaden claimed CERES had an 'instrumental test' for genuine circles, but its details were not provided. Significant, un-hoaxable layering patterns, including braiding and plaiting, were noted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims and phenomena. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, questioning evidence, analyzing methodologies, and highlighting potential hoaxes or misinterpretations. The articles on crop circles, parapsychology, and 'Crystal Healing' all fall under this umbrella, encouraging readers to approach extraordinary claims with a critical and evidence-based perspective. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting rational inquiry and debunking unsubstantiated beliefs, as exemplified by the magazine's title and the content of its articles.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 8 Number 1
Date: 1994

This issue of The Skeptic critically examines various phenomena, from crop circles and parapsychology to crystal healing and pseudoscientific claims within environmentalist movements. It features articles by Ian Plimer, Russell Dear, Tony Lawrence, Toby Howard, and Marjorie Mackintosh, offering a skeptical perspective on beliefs and practices often presented as factual.

Crop Circles: A Scientific and Skeptical Analysis

The issue delves into the crop circle phenomenon, presenting the work of Dr. G.T. Meaden and the CERES group. Meaden's research involved analyzing structural information from site surveys to explain formations using vortex motion. CERES claimed to have found anomalous levels of radioactivity in stems from genuine circles and suggested a 'litmus-test way' to distinguish them. The article also touches upon the 'Project Argus' team's scientific tests and the CCCS's proclamation that it might have found a way to identify genuine circles. However, the text highlights criticisms, such as the lack of control studies to validate Meaden's vortex theory. The article also mentions the claims of Doug Bower and Dave Chorley, who alleged they created crop circles, and the skepticism they faced, including their inability to create a good circle when demonstrating their skills. The piece notes that CERES eventually rejected complex formations as hoaxes, while retaining a belief in vortices for simple circles.

Parapsychology in the UK: A Healthy State?

Tony Lawrence's article, 'Parapsychology in the UK', provides an overview of research in the field. He notes the historical prominence of British psychical researchers and the subsequent shift in focus to American research. The resurgence of British experimental parapsychology is attributed to the Koestler bequest, which established a Chair of Parapsychology at Edinburgh University in 1985. The Koestler Chair, headed by Professor Robert Morris, is described as having a solid, scientific approach, with researchers focusing on areas like psi training studies, the psychology of psi, and social studies of paranormal belief. The article details the work of several researchers at Edinburgh, including Dr. Deborah Delanoy, Caroline Watt, Cathy Dalton, Shari Cohn, Christopher Roe, Carl Williams, Paul Stevens, Carlos Alvarado, and Tony Lawrence himself. It also mentions other centers for parapsychology research in the UK, such as the University of the West of England, Bristol, supervised by Dr. Susan Blackmore, and the University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, where Dr. Richard Wiseman teaches. The article concludes with a prediction that British parapsychology is on the rise, poised to make significant contributions.

Crystal Dangers: A Critique of New Age Healing

Ian Plimer's article, 'Crystal Dangers', critically examines the claims made by New Age proponents regarding the healing properties of crystals. Plimer, a Professor of Geology, argues that minerals are naturally occurring chemicals whose properties are explained by their composition and atomic arrangement, and that no unusual properties are beyond the scope of physics and chemistry. He debunks the idea that crystals possess mystical powers, attributing such beliefs to purveyors of fraud and those seeking delusion. Plimer highlights the irresponsibility of publishing unsubstantiated claims about crystals curing serious illnesses, warning that it could lead individuals to forgo essential medical treatment. He provides examples of dubious claims, such as quartz curing kennel cough or tourmaline treating multiple sclerosis. The article also points out the lack of scientific knowledge and logical reasoning among crystal proponents, deeming their beliefs destructive to national heritage and potentially dangerous to health.

Skeptical Predictions for 1994

Marjorie Mackintosh, writing as a 'resident seer', offers a satirical look at potential events in 1994. Her predictions humorously target public figures and common societal trends. These include Lady Thatcher channeling Attila the Hun, John Major attempting to channel past leaders, the Prince of Wales claiming alien abduction, and Kenneth Clark's budget being praised due to a 'Clever Hans' financial adviser. Other predictions involve homeopathic spirits, government ministers using transcendental meditation for rail drivers, a decline in crop circle reports attributed to wet summers, the discovery of an ancient apple from Eden, Fergie studying reflexology, and Father Christmas disappearing into the Bermuda Triangle. The predictions are presented with a tongue-in-cheek tone, highlighting the absurdity of some contemporary beliefs and events.

Psychic Diary: The Secret of the Black Magic Box

Toby Howard's 'Psychic Diary' discusses the unusual and often pseudoscientific material The Skeptic magazine receives. He describes the magazine's use of a Post Office Box number for anonymity and the variety of submissions, including lengthy 'rants' from individuals who feel skeptics are 'evil debunkers' or that discussing psychic activity increases it. Howard also recounts receiving psychically-inspired pictures of atoms, broken watches (later explained by the PO Box's previous use by a watch company), and self-published books. One notable example is 'Gog, the Forces of Magog, the Land of America' by Michael Callagher, which interprets biblical prophecies to predict current events. Another is a publication claiming to decipher the 'Secret of Westminster Abbey' through a Baconian theory, using complex cryptography. Howard emphasizes the administrative and safety benefits of the PO Box, preventing such manuscripts from being delivered to his home.

Far Too Green By Half: Pseudoscientific Environmentalism

Russell Dear's article critiques the tendency for some 'Green' publications to include pseudoscientific content alongside legitimate ecological issues. He uses the example of 'Green Scotland' magazine, which features articles on topics like 'Marx or Muesli' and 'The Efficacy of Flower Essences'. Dear recounts his experience writing a letter to the editor criticizing an article on yarrow's supposed ability to remedy radiation sickness, pointing out that the pink color of yarrow is a natural variation and not due to irradiation. He also criticizes homeopathy, stating it's unfortunate that such magazines become a 'clearing house for cranks'. The article includes responses from readers defending homeopathy and criticizing Dear's 'attack' on 'Green issues'. Dear concludes with the observation that 'Greenies like nuts', suggesting a tendency towards irrationality within the movement.

Hello, Earth Talking! A Far-Fetched Concerto for Earth and Orchestra

Robert E McGrath reports on an Earth art project by Gary Dwyer, entitled 'Mea Culpa-My Fault: A Report on an Earthwork in Progress'. The project, located on the Carrizo Plain along the San Andreas Fault in California, aims to initiate a dialogue with the earth through a landscape sculpture. Symbols from the Celtic Ogham alphabet are to be inscribed along the fault line, transcribed from the Chumash language. A sound system will play a symphony and record the earth's sounds, with the intention of capturing the earth's 'answer' to the question 'What do we do now?' via seismic activity. McGrath notes that the project might seem less amusing given recent earthquakes in California.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue of The Skeptic is the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, New Age beliefs, and unsubstantiated phenomena. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, using scientific reasoning and logical argument to debunk claims that lack empirical evidence. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting critical thinking and challenging beliefs that are presented without rigorous proof, particularly when they have potential negative consequences for health or societal understanding. The magazine aims to distinguish between credible research and unfounded speculation across various fields, including parapsychology, ufology, and alternative healing practices.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 8 Number 1
Date: 1994

This issue of The Skeptic delves into a variety of topics, critically examining claims of the paranormal, pseudoscience, and questionable scientific endeavors. The magazine features a mix of columns, reviews, and reader contributions, all from a skeptical perspective.

Skeptic at Large

Wendy M. Grossman's column, "Skeptic at Large," addresses two main points. First, she critiques the scientific inaccuracies presented in the movie "Jurassic Park," highlighting how the film promulgates irresponsible ideas about evolution and dinosaur coexistence. She questions the logic of the movie's plot points, such as the all-female population of dinosaurs and the rapid conclusion about frog spawn DNA. Second, Grossman discusses the resurgence of the debate about psychoanalysis as a pseudoscience, particularly in relation to recovered memories. She notes how techniques used in therapy, sometimes under hypnosis, can lead patients to recall memories of abuse that they have no prior recollection of, leading to legal battles and lawsuits against therapists. She references Melvin Harris and Philip Klass, who have previously investigated similar phenomena, suggesting that recalled memories can be a mix of half-digested information from novels or science-fictional tales.

Reviews

All in the mind

Mike Rutter reviews "Mind Waves" by Betty Shine. Rutter expresses wariness about Shine's reliance on mediumistic powers and spirit helpers, despite her compassionate advice on positive thinking and stress management. While acknowledging the potential benefits of her methods, he notes the lack of objective validation and reliance on anecdote. He criticizes Shine for presenting psychic phenomena like psychic photography, telepathy, and psychokinesis as established truths, and for extolling Philippine psychic surgeons despite exposes of their harmful practices. Rutter finds the account of a comatose child communicating telepathically to be the most disturbing feature, urging scientific investigation if genuine, or exposure if mistaken.

Weird science

Steve Shore reviews Gary Taubes' "Bad Science: The Short Life and Weird Times of Cold Fusion." Shore praises the book as a masterful piece of science journalism that details the public's awareness of the cold fusion claims and how it became a prime example of how not to conduct science. He highlights Taubes' contribution in placing the episode in context, particularly the role of the science press in promoting and exploiting the affair. Shore notes Taubes' exposure of the role of the science press, including articles in Scientific American, in popularizing phenomena like muon-catalyzed fusion. He also details how funding processes at the NSF and DOE, and the involvement of 'special interest' funding agencies like EPRI, contributed to the promotion of such research. Shore contrasts the legitimate, albeit meager, results of muon-catalyzed fusion with the lack of results in cold fusion. He commends the book for its detailed, moment-by-moment reporting and extensive documentation, calling it a must-read for understanding the evolution of scientific and paranormal claims.

Mesmerism defended

H. B. Gibson reviews Alan Gauld's "A History of Hypnotism." Gibson criticizes Gauld for defending mesmerists and sometimes implying belief in absurd phenomena, such as reading without the use of eyes. He notes Gauld's omission of details about tricksters and the work of E. M. Thornton, who suggested that many patients in Mesmer's salon were epileptics. Gibson believes the book will appeal to those who feel the mesmeric movement has been unfairly treated by scientists, and regrets the biased nature of the scholarly research.

The 'mysterious overself'

Sophie Brown reviews Paul Brunton's "The Secret Path: A Technique of Spiritual Discovery for the Modern World." Brown notes the book's poetic and devotional style, which she feels biases the reader against objective validity. She points out that Brunton is a pioneer in introducing Eastern mysticism to the West. The book is divided into sections on Brunton's philosophical conclusions about human existence and his doctrine of a 'mysterious Overself,' and meditation techniques to achieve inner peace. Brown highlights Brunton's description of the Overself as a 'secret, silent witness' and his emphasis on intuition. She finds the meditation technique chapters to be the most useful and credible part of the work. However, she notes that the book mixes Buddhist, Hindu, and Christian beliefs, and that Brunton's claims of direct spiritual insight lack objective or rational analysis.

The human face of science

This section reviews two books: Dennis Overbye's "Lonely Hearts of the Cosmos" and Steven Rose's "The Making of Memory." The reviewer notes that scientists are often perceived as mysterious and alien. "Lonely Hearts of the Cosmos" is described as an intriguing story of the development of modern cosmology, making it accessible and exciting. "The Making of Memory" by Steven Rose offers a personal look at scientific research into memory, written in an autobiographical style. The reviewer highlights Rose's discussion of the ethical issues surrounding his experiments on baby chicks and his ambivalent feelings about using animals in research. The section concludes by suggesting that a better public understanding of scientists as people could lead to greater appreciation of science.

Unexplained mysteries?

Les Francis reviews "The Unexplained: Mysteries of Mind Space and Time." He notes that the book collects articles from a part-work series and is a visual feast, but that the text is less rigorously researched than the illustrations. Francis criticizes the book's unrestrained credulity and wide-eyed amazement, suggesting it appeals to people's interest in the mysterious over skeptical dissent. He acknowledges that the book is engaging and covers a wide range of paranormal topics, but advises buying it only if found in a remainder shop or as a part-work.

Letters

Anything goes

Lassi Hyvarinen writes about the concepts of modern cosmology, particularly the "Inflation-a Miracle" hypothesis, which he views as a one-time event that defies accepted physical laws. He questions how events before the Big Bang can be known and discusses the implications of the General Theory of Relativity on time and gravity. He also touches on the concept of an "Open/Closed Universe" and the role of gravitation.

Sounds odd

Michael Heap shares an experience of hearing a mysterious loud "pop" sound from his car roof while driving on the A1. He asks for similar experiences or explanations from readers, suggesting a possible link to an RAF base.

Seeking experiences

Harriett Moore is seeking readers who have had detrimental experiences with Alternative and New Age Medicine, particularly in life-threatening situations, to publish a skeptical viewpoint.

Medium tedium

Steve Donnelly reviews Stephen O'Brien's "In Touch with Eternity" and "Angels by my Side." Donnelly finds O'Brien to be a sincere and intelligent person but questions the information he provides from the 'other side,' noting repetitive details across different readings. He also recounts an unimpressive television performance by O'Brien. Donnelly concludes that the books offer little insight into the cosmos or spiritualists, but rather reveal O'Brien's uninventive fantasy world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic are skepticism towards paranormal claims, critical examination of pseudoscience, and the demystification of science. The magazine consistently promotes a rational and evidence-based approach, challenging unsubstantiated assertions and highlighting the importance of scientific methodology. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking and a rejection of claims that lack empirical support or are based on anecdotal evidence. The magazine aims to educate its readers about the pitfalls of credulity and the value of scientific inquiry.