Skeptic - 1995 - Vol 9 No 5

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 9, Number 5
Date: 1995
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Price: £2.00
ISSN: 0959-5228

This issue of The Skeptic, dated 1995, focuses heavily on the critical examination of the high-fidelity (hi-fi) industry, its reviewing practices, and the prevalence of pseudoscience within it. The cover headline, 'Health-care for your Hi-Fi', sets the tone for an in-depth critique of what the magazine views as often unsubstantiated claims and dubious products.

Contents and Key Articles

Health-care for your Hi-Fi

This main feature, written by Richard Ward, delves into the world of audiophiles and the often-expensive pursuit of sonic perfection. Ward expresses his own membership in the 'nutty hi-fi fraternity' but proceeds to dissect the industry's claims and the methodology of its reviewers. He highlights the subjective nature of sound quality and the vast range of products, from speakers to cables, that enthusiasts invest in. A significant portion of the article is dedicated to criticizing the lack of proper blind testing in hi-fi reviews. Ward argues that reviewers often fail to conduct or report on blind tests, which he believes are crucial for objective assessment. He points to instances where reviewers have dismissed blind testing when results were unfavorable, or have used anecdotal evidence to support claims. The article also touches upon various 'tweak' products, such as 'green pens' for CDs and 'room tuning' devices, questioning their efficacy and the high prices associated with them.

Electromagnetic Integrity

In this section, Steve Donnelly addresses a reader's query regarding his previous remark about electricity companies sponsoring research. Donnelly retracts any implication of bias, stating his confidence in the honesty and integrity of scientists in the industry. However, he notes that despite this, exaggerated claims about the dangers of electromagnetic fields persist, even leading to lawsuits based on public fears rather than clear evidence.

Autopsy Hoax

This piece scrutinizes the authenticity of the 'alien autopsy' film that was broadcast. The article cites a Sunday Times investigation that pointed out several flaws in the footage, including the disappearance of security coding and discrepancies with eyewitness accounts. Furthermore, the Harry S Truman library confirmed that President Truman, who was claimed to be present, was not in New Mexico at the time the autopsies supposedly took place, leading to the conclusion that the film is likely a fake.

Suck up a pinta

This short article discusses the phenomenon of Hindu statues, particularly of Ganesh, appearing to 'drink' milk in September. It suggests that this event, amplified by the media, was likely due to capillary action, a simple physical explanation that skeptics proposed, contrasting with the believers' interpretations of divine messages.

Handy Miracle

The article recounts the story of the severed hand of St John Kemble being used to heal Father Christopher Jenkins. While the hospital spokesperson stated the priest was stable, the piece implies a skeptical view on the therapeutic power of the relic, questioning if it could be made available through the NHS.

Fishy Stories

This section covers two separate incidents: one involving mysterious lights over Torquay traced to a fishpond's filtration system, and another concerning 'jellyfish' phenomena observed above thunderstorms, described as red blobs and blue jets of light that appear and disappear rapidly.

Piltdown Puss

This brief report addresses the discovery of a cat skull in a Cornish river, which was initially thought to be evidence of the 'Beast of Bodmin'. However, specialists identified it as a young male leopard from India, likely from an old leopard-skin rug, debunking the local cryptid theory.

Give us our ball back

This piece highlights a case where two psychics from Maidenhead lost a 'psychic time bomb' – a crystal ball used to drain sickness. They feared it could cause harm to the finder and appealed for its return for psychic cleansing, illustrating a belief in objects possessing supernatural properties.

Confessions of a Hi-fi Enthusiast (continued)

Richard Ward's article continues, detailing his experiences and observations within the hi-fi community. He discusses the subjective nature of sound quality, the importance of stereo imagery and timing, and the overwhelming number of products and 'tweaks' available. He reiterates his criticism of hi-fi magazines for not prioritizing blind testing and for promoting products with questionable scientific backing. He also mentions the 'green pen' incident again and the controversy surrounding it, including responses from reviewers who defended its efficacy despite a lack of rigorous proof.

One box of new powder for two old ones

This section critiques the trend in hi-fi magazines to use sensationalist headlines, comparing it to 'soap powder syndrome'. It questions how significantly new models can differ, especially given the rapid pace of technological advancement. The author notes that while technology advances rapidly, sound quality is more subjective. The article also touches upon the practice of releasing 'special edition' versions of products tailored for specific markets, such as 'British ears'. It reiterates the criticism that proper blind testing is rarely conducted, suggesting that reviewers' credibility depends on distinguishing differences, even if none exist.

Little green pens

This part of the article focuses on the 'green ink' treatment for CDs, which claimed to improve clarity and imaging. The author recounts his own attempts to question this claim and the responses he received from reviewers who defended the product based on subjective experience rather than objective evidence. He highlights the argument that repeatable phenomena can be witnessed before a scientific explanation is found, but questions the lack of evidence for such claims, even extending to vinyl records.

Misguided Lasers

This section discusses another product, LaserGuide, a CD cleaner that claimed similar improvements to the green pen. A double-blind test conducted by the author and friends found no discernible difference between treated and untreated discs, yet the response from a reviewer implied that blind testing was a valid method of proof, raising the question of why it wasn't standard practice.

Sticky Flying Saucers

This piece critiques the review of 'Harmonix RFA-78 room tuning devices' in Hi-fi News. The reviewer, Ken Kessler, described how these discs, when placed on walls and ceilings, made the room feel more comfortable and serene, leading to a better sound. The author questions the objectivity of this assessment, noting that room acoustics naturally vary and that Kessler's claims were not supported by proper blind testing. The high cost of these devices is also highlighted.

Fish fingers, peas... and CDs

This section discusses the trend of 'cryogenic freezing' of CDs, as reported in Audiophile. The author describes how one reader ingeniously used a kitchen freezer to freeze CDs, controlling the thaw rate to supposedly improve sound quality. The article notes that this practice was also applied to other equipment, despite the obvious risks of short-circuiting and electrocution.

Strange Sights in Our Solar System

This is a visual feature with cartoon-like illustrations depicting unusual formations on Mars ('The face on Mars'), Mercury ('The mooning buttocks'), and Venus ('The rude gesture on Venus'), with the caption 'Still highly classified.... IS SOMEONE TRYING TO TELL US SOMETHING..?' This section appears to be a commentary on unusual astronomical observations and potential interpretations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly within the hi-fi industry and in popular culture. The magazine consistently advocates for rigorous scientific methodology, especially blind testing, as the gold standard for evaluating products and phenomena. There is a clear editorial stance against pseudoscience, marketing hype, and the uncritical acceptance of anecdotal evidence. The articles critique the media's role in propagating such ideas and call for greater integrity and scientific competence from reviewers and manufacturers alike. The magazine aims to educate its readers to be critical thinkers, questioning extraordinary claims and seeking evidence-based explanations.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 9 Number 5
Date: November 1995
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK

This issue of The Skeptic, a publication focused on critical thinking and skepticism, features a range of articles addressing science fiction, alternative beliefs, and skeptical investigations.

Traveller in Black: John Brunner, 1934 – 1995

This piece by Dave Langford is an obituary and tribute to the British SF author John Kilian Houston Brunner, who died on August 25th at the World Science Fiction Convention in Glasgow. Brunner is remembered as a giant of SF, known for his 'lived-in futures' that combined extrapolative exhilaration with the nightmare of future shock. His most recognized blockbuster was 'Stand on Zanzibar' (1968), which won the Hugo award. Other significant works include 'The Jagged Orbit' (1969), 'The Sheep Look Up' (1972) – a polemic against pollution – and 'The Shockwave Rider' (1975), which prophetically mapped issues of information overload and hacking. Brunner was also a longtime supporter of the skeptical movement, holding a strong hatred of superstition and cant. The article notes his opposition to nuclear deterrence and his critique of religion. In 1975, he gave a speech titled 'Science Fiction and the Larger Lunacy,' lambasting those who promoted pseudoscientific drivel and specifically targeting works like 'The Morning of the Magicians' by Pauwels and Bergier. The article mentions his later struggles with income from his ambitious novels and the impact of his first wife Marjorie's death. He is survived by his second wife, LiYi Tan Brunner. The author notes that Brunner's only excursion into pure fantasy, 'Traveller in Black' (1971), featured an enigmatic figure purging the universe of irrationality, a role David Langford likens to Brunner himself.

The Triumph of Alternative Therapy

By H B Gibson, this article critically examines the phenomenon of 'Alternative Therapy.' Gibson argues that while conventional medicine has become more honest and effective, alternative therapies thrive due to a combination of factors, including the placebo effect and a desire among some patients to reject the realities of the modern world. He recounts his own experience of a prolonged, unexplained painful condition that eventually resolved naturally, highlighting how such cases can be misinterpreted as evidence for the efficacy of unproven treatments. Gibson details various forms of quackery, such as reflexology, iridology, homeopathy, and acupuncture, and criticizes practitioners for not admitting when they don't know what is wrong with a patient. He suggests that many clients of quacks are seeking support for an attitude of mind that rejects scientific progress and embraces a view of the world as being polluted and harmful. The article also touches upon the potential for harm when alternative therapies replace conventional medical treatment, citing examples of serious negative outcomes.

A Bizarre Bazaar

Written by Chris Willis, this piece reports on the National Pagan Halloween Festival held at the University of London Union. Willis describes the event as a showcase of Paganism, comparing it to church bazaars but with stalls selling items like Tarot cards and aromatherapy oils, and offering workshops on herbalism and chanting. She notes the presence of various Pagan groups, including the Association of Hedgewitches and the Fellowship of Isis, and even a book by the skeptic James Randi. Willis expresses surprise at the cost of 'entertainment' like palm or Tarot card readings. She observes that Pagans are nature-worshippers, not devil-worshippers, and generally respect the environment and women. Despite her skeptical stance, Willis admits to enjoying the encounter, finding Pagans preferable to some other religions due to their non-proselytizing nature and their ethic: 'An it harm no-one, do what you will.'

The Age of Aquarius

Val Dobson's article deconstructs the 'New Age' concept of the Age of Aquarius. Dobson argues that the idea is a conflation of two ancient concepts: The Great Year, a belief in cyclical human history, and the Precession of the Equinoxes, an astronomical phenomenon. She explains how Greek philosophers like Plato contributed to the idea of a Great Year, and how Hipparchus described the precession of the equinoxes. The article traces the development of the myth, particularly through Helena Blavatsky and the Theosophy Society, linking it to the idea of a coming 'New Age' of spiritual enlightenment. Dobson critically examines the historical correspondence between astrological ages and actual historical events, finding it lacking. She also questions the dating of the Age of Aquarius and points out the geographical bias, noting that the concept primarily applies to the Northern Hemisphere.

An Antipodean Odyssey

Susan Blackmore recounts her experiences attending the Australian Skeptics' 1995 Annual Public Convention in Melbourne. Despite the mid-winter weather, she found the conference to be a great event, with sessions on fraud, the placebo effect, and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. Blackmore gave a lecture on her twenty years in parapsychology. The article also touches upon discussions on alternative medicine, creationism, and cults, including a moving account of 'The Family' cult by Ed Ogden. Blackmore visited various cities in Australia and New Zealand, noting the cooperative and open approach of local skeptical and parapsychological groups, which she contrasts with the more polarized situation in the United States. She expresses a preference for the Australian and New Zealand model, where there is more overlap between different belief systems.

Psychic Diary

Toby Howard presents a series of personal anecdotes illustrating what he terms 'coincidences.' He describes instances where he unexpectedly heard his co-editor on the radio, encountered the word 'Maverick' multiple times in quick succession, received an email from someone with the same first names as his own, and heard a specific word from a crossword puzzle sung on the radio at the same moment. Howard then delves into a paper by Matthews and Blackmore that attempts to explain why people find coincidences so impressive. They propose that 'coincidence' is a 'ghost' arising from a mismatch between our mental models of probabilities and the actual mathematical likelihood of events. The article concludes that unless we improve our understanding of probabilities, coincidences will continue to be a source of annoyance and perceived significance.

Spiritualism, Ancient and Modern

Max Sexton explores the historical roots of Spiritualism, tracing it back to late antiquity and the 'mystery cults' of the Roman world. He discusses the concept of the spirit or 'daimon' and its role in validating beliefs in an immortal soul and a supernatural cosmology. Sexton highlights the influence of Neoplatonism and the practice of 'theurgy,' which involved contacting spirits through mediums. He mentions alleged phenomena such as levitation and ectoplasm, drawing parallels with modern psychical research. The article notes that Christianity eventually replaced the mystery cults but absorbed some of their elements. The revival of theurgy in the 19th century, associated with the Fox sisters, marked a shift towards 'occult science' and psychical research, moving away from the earlier religious underpinnings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based stance, challenging pseudoscientific claims and promoting rational inquiry. Recurring themes in this issue include the debunking of alternative therapies and New Age beliefs, the examination of paranormal phenomena through a skeptical lens, and the exploration of psychological factors that contribute to belief in the unproven. The magazine champions scientific literacy and critical thinking, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on empirical evidence. The articles collectively advocate for a worldview grounded in reason and scientific understanding, while acknowledging the complexities of human belief and the appeal of alternative explanations.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 9 Number 5
Date: November 1995
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of The Skeptic delves into a variety of topics, primarily focusing on skepticism, pseudoscience, and the critical examination of unusual claims. The magazine features a column by Wendy M Grossman, reviews of several books, and letters from readers.

Skeptic at Large: The Ig Nobel Awards

Wendy M Grossman's column, 'Skeptic at Large', reports on the 1995 Ig Nobel Awards ceremony held at Harvard University. These awards, run by the Annals of Improbable Research, celebrate achievements that 'first make people laugh, and then make them think.' Grossman describes the event, highlighting the presence of Nobel Laureates and the diverse and often bizarre categories of awards. The winners included John Martinez for Luak Coffee (ingested and excreted by the luak), researchers for their analysis of soggy breakfast cereal, Nick Leeson and his superiors for demonstrating financial institution limits, and studies on nostril breathing, rectal foreign bodies, pigeon art discrimination, the impact of wet underwear, and DNA cologne.

Reviews

Bewitched, bothered and bewildered: The Lancashire Witch-Craze

This review discusses Jonathan Lumby's book, 'The Lancashire Witch-Craze: Jennet Preston and the Lancashire Witches, 1612'. The book examines the historical context of witchcraft accusations in 17th-century England, focusing on the trial and execution of Jennet Preston in 1612. The reviewer notes that the book is a scholarly work, well-illustrated and reasonably priced, but may appeal primarily to those with a specialist interest. It explores possible reasons for the charges against Preston, including speculation that she may have been the older Lister's mistress and that some accused may have been secret Catholics facing persecution.

Tag with extra-terrestrial ghosts: UFOs and Psychic Close Encounters

Albert Budden's book, 'The Electromagnetic Indictment: UFO's Psychic Close Encounters', is reviewed. Budden argues that UFO encounters are not psychological but psychic, comparing them to hauntings and apparitions. He suggests that the unconscious mind creates these events, which can manipulate physical reality and leave traces like burns or footprints. The reviewer, Wolf Roder, finds Budden's thesis unconvincing, questioning the reliance on psychic phenomena and the lack of connection to electromagnetic radiation research. He notes that Budden's theory suggests UFO events are associated with large orange balls of light or occur near power lines, radio masts, and quarries.

Academics vs science: Higher Superstition

This review covers 'Higher Superstition: The Academic Left and its Quarrels with Science' by P Gross and N Levitt. The book argues that a segment of American humanities and social science academics, termed the 'Academic Left', exhibit a hostility towards science based on an incoherent ideology and ignorance of scientific methodology. They promote 'perspectivism', viewing science as just one perspective among many, often associated with dominant Western culture. The review highlights that this stance endangers university research and that skeptics should engage with these arguments. The reviewer, Martin Bridgstock, finds the book well-written and entertaining but believes the authors may overstate the threat to science, suggesting that science remains strong globally.

UFO detectives: Unidentified Aerial Object Photographed near Zwisch-bergen, Switzerland on July 26, 1975

This review discusses a book by Wim Van Utrecht and Frits Van der Veldt, which analyzes a UFO case from 1975. The book is described as a meticulous study and a model of investigation, presenting the findings step-by-step like a detective story. The case involves three Dutch tourists who photographed an object that scientific analysis confirmed was not a hoax but whose nature remained undetermined. The reviewer, Hilary Evans, encourages readers to examine the evidence themselves and does not reveal the conclusion.

Reaching new heights: Little One: Message from Planet Heaven

Ann Walker's book, 'Little One: Message from Planet Heaven', is reviewed. The reviewer likens it to works by Lobsang Rampa and David Icke, describing it as a far-fetched story about saving the world from imminent destruction due to deforestation and a comet. The book features a spirit guide named 'White Arrow' and discusses past lives and alien encounters. The reviewer finds the book absurd and questions its value, noting that it includes elements for various interests, including aliens, UFOs, crop circles, and spirits.

What's all this, Zen? Astral Sex - Zen Teabags

Gerry Thompson's 'Astral Sex - Zen Teabags: An illustrated Encyclopaedia of New Age Jargon' is reviewed. The book is compared to '1066 and All That' for its humor. It defines New Age jargon, including 'Astral Sex' and 'Zen Teabags'. The reviewer, Susan Blackmore, notes the book's humor and classic cartoons, but also its lack of profound wisdom. She mentions the concept of 'learning experiences' instead of mistakes.

Fringe views: At the Fringes of Science

Michael W Friedlander's book, 'At the Fringes of Science', is reviewed. The book addresses the challenge of distinguishing between genuine science and pseudoscience. It examines various examples of pseudoscience and discusses how scientists think and communicate. The reviewer, Martin Bridgstock, finds the book valuable for skeptics, providing a comprehensive overview of topics like cold fusion and the Jupiter Effect, though he notes that some cases were unfamiliar. He concludes that Friedlander does not draw a clear demarcation line between science and pseudoscience.

Did he have magic? Hitler and the Occult

Ken Anderson's book, 'Hitler and the Occult', is reviewed. Anderson examines claims of Hitler possessing mystical or occult powers, concluding that there is more evidence for Churchill's involvement in the occult. The book argues that Hitler persecuted occult groups and that his ideology was based on prevailing social Darwinism and eugenics, not unique occult beliefs. The reviewer, Wolf Roder, highlights Hitler's talent for swaying audiences, comparing him to televangelists and rock stars. The review also notes errors in the book, such as misidentifying Hamburg as the capital of Bavaria.

Deja vu? Journeys Through Time and Through Time into Healing

This section reviews two books on past life regression therapy: 'Journeys Through Time' by Soozi Holbeche and 'Through Time into Healing' by Dr. Brian Weiss. Both books discuss reincarnation and present case histories. The reviewer, Chris Willis, notes that while regression therapy is popular, some case histories seem to owe more to imagination than reality. He advises caution and suggests that the books offer entertaining reading for those with an open mind, but should be taken with a large dose of salt.

Letters

Unicorns

John Brunner writes in defense of the unicorn patent, refuting Les Francis's mockery. Brunner claims to have met a unicorn and possesses a photograph, describing it as a doctored male goat. He argues that the operation rendered the animals docile and intelligent, making them ideal protectors.

In praise of sea-bands

Andy Brice's article on acupressure bands for sea-sickness is challenged by a reader who found them effective. However, another reader's brother-in-law had a negative experience. The letter proposes a survey to determine the success rate and any adverse effects of sea-bands.

Millenia fever

Margaret Moulton comments on historical accounts of the church encouraging belief in the end of the world in the tenth century, leading people to divest their goods. She suggests the church will find similar excuses in the future, citing Jubilee and Holy years as examples of wealth gathering.

Creating nonsense

Val Dobson writes about creationists, suggesting that they might argue their God created the world as described in Genesis and then arranged fossils and geological strata to make it appear billions of years old, thus reconciling their beliefs with scientific evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic include the critical examination of pseudoscience, New Age beliefs, and paranormal claims. The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical approach, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and seek natural explanations. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific reasoning and evidence-based inquiry, as demonstrated through the reviews of books that challenge or debunk pseudoscientific ideas and the publication of letters that engage with these themes from a critical perspective. The magazine also highlights the importance of clear thinking and the potential for intellectual dishonesty in various fields, from academic theorizing to the promotion of unverified therapies and beliefs.