Skeptic - 1997-98 - Vol 11 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 11, Number 3, published in 1998, features a cover story on "Unidentified Flying Airships" and includes a variety of articles critically examining paranormal claims, pseudoscientific theories, and historical mysteries. The magazine is published bimonthly from Manchester, UK, and is priced at £2.50. The editorial team announces a significant change: Wendy Grossman, the magazine's founder, is taking over as Editor-in-chief after ten years with Steve Donnelly and Toby Howard stepping down from that role.

Editorial

The editorial apologizes for the lateness of the issue, attributing it to "mysterious circumstances beyond our control." It announces a major change at The Skeptic: after ten years, editors Steve Donnelly and Toby Howard are handing over editorship to Wendy Grossman. This transition is driven by the increasing difficulty of producing the magazine regularly due to professional pressures. Grossman, who founded the magazine in 1987, has assembled a new team, and the future looks bright. The editorial notes that there will not be an issue 11.4; the next will be 12.1, but subscribers will receive the number of issues they have paid for. Donnelly and Howard will remain as associate editors.

Contents

The issue includes a range of articles, including "Hits and Misses" by Steve Donnelly, "Analysing an 'Alien' Implant" by Susan Blackmore and David T Patton, "Here be Penguins" by David Hambling (discussing the Piri Re'is map), "The Skeptic's Dictionary" by Robert Todd Carroll (on Atlantis), "Zeppelins Hysteria" by Robert Bartholomew and Philip Cole, "Feng Shui Fooey" by Neville Goodman, "Bewitched and Bewildered" by Lovell Brown, "Sprite" by Donald Rooum, "In Defense of Humanism" by Arthur Chappell, and "Psychic Diary" by Toby Howard. There are also sections for "Skeptic at Large" by Wendy Grossman, "Reviews," and "Letters."

Hits and Misses

This section, written by Steve Donnelly, covers several disparate topics:

What a hoot

Donnelly introduces the "Owlman of Mawman," a creature described in the Daily Mail as a five-foot-tall half-owl, half-man appearing in Cornwall, reportedly stealing goldfish. He notes the Catholic tradition of the Virgin Mary appearing to females, contrasting it with the Owlman's alleged appearances.

Professional forecasting

He discusses a diploma home study course in professional forecasting and prediction offered by Streetwise Marketing of Rotherham. The course claims that anyone can learn techniques like astrology, palmistry, and numerology for a monthly fee of £19.95, and includes a free booklet on "Twenty Businesses Related to the Unexplained You Could Start Tomorrow."

Of mice and men

This part examines the effects of electromagnetic (EM) fields on humans and animals. Donnelly notes that while some trials show effects, much of the subject matter is "scare-mongering rubbish." He mentions Michael Shallis's "Electric Shock Book" and research from 1996 indicating a possible link between microwave radiation from mobile phones and Alzheimer's, though he humorously suspects a link between mobile phone users and mental disorders.

He also discusses a pendant advertised to protect wearers from mobile phone radiation for £95. The section touches on computer games machines and their EM fields, citing a scientist who claims mice exposed to these fields learn more slowly. Dr. Zenon Sienkiewicz's research on mice in a Radial Arm Maze showed they made more mistakes when exposed to EM fields, even at levels 1000 times lower than those experienced by Playstation users. Donnelly suggests that safety guidelines are needed and that people working with computers for long hours might also be at risk. A cartoon illustrates mice being slower to find the exit after the computer is found.

One in nine million

This piece highlights a Daily Mail article suggesting that people with the astrological sign of Aries are more likely to win the National Lottery, with odds of 9 million to one compared to 14 million to one for others. The article includes a skeptical warning about the statistics being skewed by winners who go public.

Religious interest

Donnelly recounts the story of Ernest Digweed, who left a will stipulating that income from his estate be made available to Jesus Christ upon his return, with satisfactory ID. The will was to last 21 years, after which the income would revert to the Treasury. Despite numerous claimants, including a salesman claiming to be the son of God, only a few thousand pounds remain.

Steve Donnelly is identified as Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Salford.

Analysing an 'Alien' Implant

This article by Susan Blackmore and David T Patton investigates a claim by "abductee" James Basil, who alleged that aliens had implanted a small object in his mouth. The authors describe their examination of the object using a stereo light microscope and a Hitachi s-450 scanning electron microscope with an EDAX PV9100 X-ray microanalysis system. The object, approximately 2x3 mm and dullish grey, was found to have irregular edges and surface detail, with some yellow-brown material assumed to be dried organic matter. The analysis revealed its composition to be 40.5% mercury, 46.3% tin + silver, and 10.7% others (Ca, Cl, and Si). This composition was compared to standard dental amalgam, which is typically 50% mercury and 50% silver and tin (73% to 27%). The authors conclude that the 'implant' was a displaced dental filling coated with dried organic material. They raise questions about how far scientists should go in testing extraordinary claims but argue that it is important to do so to avoid alienating believers and to maintain scientific credibility. They note that the positive response from other scientists at the University of the West of England suggests agreement.

Here Be Penguins

David Hambling's article critiques Graham Hancock's claims in "Fingerprints of The Gods" regarding the Piri Re'is map. Hambling examines the 1513 Turkish map, which Hancock suggests shows Antarctica before it was covered in ice, implying an advanced ancient civilization. Hambling argues that the map is inaccurate, with the depicted landmass being thousands of miles north of Antarctica's true location and lacking resemblance to its coast or ice sheet. He points out that no ice sheet is shown, and the map includes deer, lions, and tropical snakes, which are incongruous with Antarctica. Hambling suggests that the map's accuracy regarding South America is plausible because it may have incorporated sketches made by Columbus. He concludes that the map is not anomalous for its era and does not require lost civilizations to explain it, attributing its inaccuracies to the mapmakers doing their best with available knowledge and the influence of ancient Greek ideas about a southern continent.

The Skeptic's Dictionary: The Mystery of Atlantis

Robert Todd Carroll's entry on Atlantis discusses the legendary island said by Plato to have sunk beneath the sea. Carroll mentions theories linking Atlantis to the volcanic island of Thera (Santorini) and its devastating eruption in 1625 BCE. He critiques various authors who have written about Atlantis, including Charles Berlitz and Ignatius Donnelly, recommending Kenneth L. Feder's "Frauds, Mysteries and Myths" as a more critical analysis. Carroll also touches upon the theosophical concepts of Atlantis and Mu, and Edgar Cayce's psychic claims. He concludes that there is no archaeological or geological evidence for Atlantis or Mu, paraphrasing Whitehead by stating that the belief in Atlantis is "just another footnote to Plato."

Britain's Zeppelin Hysteria

Robert Bartholomew and Philip Cole's article examines the "mass hysteria" surrounding Zeppelin sightings in the UK between 1912-1913. They argue that these sightings, often interpreted by UFO enthusiasts as alien spacecraft, were likely misidentifications of Zeppelins or other aerial phenomena, fueled by a war scare with Germany. The authors highlight that no reports from the period described saucer-shaped objects, and no ground residue was found that couldn't be explained by contemporary technology. They contrast this with modern abduction claims, noting the absence of such detailed accounts in the 1912-13 period. The article posits that the sightings were a result of social and cultural expectations, war hysteria, and misperception, rather than extraterrestrial visitation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of The Skeptic consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to extraordinary claims. Recurring themes include the debunking of pseudoscientific theories (Feng Shui, Atlantis, Piri Re'is map interpretations), the examination of historical mysteries through a skeptical lens (Zeppelin Hysteria), and the scientific analysis of purported paranormal evidence (alien implant). The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodology and critical thinking, often contrasting it with anecdotal evidence, popular beliefs, and the sensationalism found in some media. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting rationalism and skepticism, encouraging readers to question claims that lack empirical support and to seek plausible, mundane explanations for phenomena.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 11 Number 3
Publication Date: June 15 (Year not explicitly stated, but context suggests around 2000)

This issue of The Skeptic features a prominent article on the historical 'phantom airship' or Zeppelin sightings in Britain between 1912 and 1913, placing them within the context of escalating Anglo-German tensions and invasion fears. It also includes a defense of Humanism against criticism, an article deconstructing the popularity of Feng Shui, a comic strip, and notes for readers and contributors.

The Zeppelin Reports

The main feature delves into the wave of Zeppelin sightings reported in Britain from October 1912 to March 1913. The article begins by outlining the tense geopolitical climate between Britain and Germany, characterized by a naval race and concerns over German military intentions leading up to World War I. Sir C. Hardinge's 1906 assessment of no immediate German naval threat is contrasted with the growing unease by 1912. The 'naval race' intensified, and plans for additional German battleships heightened British Admiralty concerns.

This period also saw a surge in British science fiction novels exploring themes of aerial invasion, reflecting public anxiety. The Zeppelin episode began with an incident at Sheerness on October 14, 1912, where witnesses reported an aerial noise and a distant light, speculated to be from an airship. Member of Parliament Mr. Joynson-Nicks inquired about this in Parliament, and while Mr. Churchill initially denied the existence of British airships of comparable size and power, he privately believed the sighting was of a Zeppelin.

The incident sparked widespread press speculation, leading to more reports. On December 3rd, an airship was reported near Portsmouth. On January 4, 1913, a bright light was observed over Dover, described by newspapers as fact. Similar sightings occurred in South Wales, with reports of an airship seen over Cardiff on January 18th, emitting smoke. Captain Lionel Lindsay, the Glamorgan Chief Constable, and other witnesses like John Wilkey and Miss Francis, provided accounts. Mr. H.J. Marshall of Swansea also reported seeing an aircraft or aeroplane.

These sightings continued almost nightly until March 7, 1913. The proximity of these sightings to the English Channel, without corresponding sightings in England, led to speculation that the vessel was secretly developed by a local inventor or the War Office. The term 'Zeppelin' became increasingly associated with these sightings.

E.T. Willows, a Cardiff airman, suggested that the objects could have been one of several Zeppelins capable of long journeys. He noted that weather conditions were suitable for airship flight and that the 'long oval shape' reported by observers suggested a dirigible balloon. He mentioned that the British War Office airships 'Gamma' and 'Delta' were capable of journeys across South Wales, with speeds of about 50 miles an hour, covering distances of 1,800 to 2,000 miles, bringing the South Wales coalfield within range of German aircraft operating from bases on the German border.

Mr. Willows stated that Britain had no equivalent airship technology at the time, though he was working on similar plans. He also noted the potential range of German airships, capable of reaching British industrial areas.

Skeptical explanations for the sightings began to emerge. Joseph M. Elgle, F.R.A.S., suggested that the mysterious light could be the planet Venus, which was prominent in the evening sky. He argued that Venus, due to irradiation, could appear to be hovering and moving in ways that might be misinterpreted, especially with intermittent cloud cover. He also addressed the 'hum of engines' and 'faint, bird-like shape' reports, suggesting that these could be imagined or misheard sounds, and that clouds could easily be mistaken for shapes.

Other explanations included fire balloons, rubber balloons with attached batteries, flocks of birds, and unusual atmospheric illusions. The article notes that actions by the British Government, such as passing a bill allowing officers to fire at mysterious aircraft, reinforced the belief in Zeppelin incursions, as it was assumed the authorities had received confidential reports.

Major Sykes of the Royal Flying Corps declared that Britain was no longer an island and that the aeroplane had destroyed the inviolability of the English air. Major B. Baden-Powell warned of German airships carrying bombs, drawing parallels to H.G. Wells' novel 'War in the Air'. The article concludes that the phantom Zeppelin sightings were a symbolic projection of the prevailing socio-political climate, where the skies became a 'Rorschach Ink Blot Test' for collective anxieties.

Feng Shui Fooey

Neville Goodman critically examines the popularity of Feng Shui, a practice described as an ancient art of placement. He draws a parallel between Feng Shui and graphology, stating that neither has a scientific basis and are therefore superstitions. Goodman notes that many large companies employ Feng Shui consultants, and that authors and publishers are capitalizing on its rediscovery. He quotes Bernadette Jones from 'Forte' magazine, who suggests that arranging items according to Feng Shui principles can maximize beneficial energy or 'chi flow', potentially changing one's life positively.

Goodman questions the logic of Feng Shui practitioners, citing Gina Lazenby's comparison of Feng Shui to acupuncture. He argues that doctors do not universally accept acupuncture, and even if it did work by freeing energy channels, it doesn't logically follow that energy moving through a human body is evidence for energy moving through an office.

He suggests that some Feng Shui principles, such as not sitting in line with a door, can be explained by common sense reasons like distraction, security, or avoiding draughts. He also mentions the idea of 'rubbish' being an obstacle to energy flow, interpreting this in a metaphorical sense of 'absurd ideas or suggestions; nonsense'. Goodman references Professor Richard Dawkins, who described the 'slow drip, drip of irrationality' as a danger to clear thinking and progress. He concludes that articles promoting Feng Shui often masquerade as fact and are presented with a 'Gosh!' factor, contrasting this with the cumulative nature of scientific knowledge.

In Defence of Humanism

Arthur Chappell, Secretary of the Manchester Humanists, responds to a critical article by Mike Walsh published in a previous issue. Chappell defends Humanism as a non-religious, secular belief system that is ethical and situational, not dogmatic. He clarifies that pacifism is not an absolute condition for Humanists, and that they often hold diverse views on various issues, citing the differing opinions on Princess Diana's death as an example.

Chappell addresses the problematic use of the word 'Humanism', noting that cults also use the term. He specifically criticizes Walsh's reference to a 'Siloist' project, clarifying that mainstream Humanists do not support it. He traces the historical roots of Humanism from Cicero's 'Studia Humanitas' to its secularization in the 19th century and the role of Ethical societies.

He defends The Freethinker magazine, which Walsh criticized for an article on Cuban social politics, arguing that it presented a more positive view than many commentators. Chappell questions why Walsh, who read the article, did not respond to it if he disagreed.

Chappell argues that Humanists are not intolerant and often engage in respectful debate. He defends the use of humor and satire directed at religion, stating it can illustrate the absurdities of literal belief. He also defends the concept of Gay and Lesbian movements, such as GALHA, as essential for combating religious prejudice. He clarifies that abortion is not mandatory for Humanists, but that they generally support a woman's right to choose.

He describes the meetings of Manchester Humanists, which cover a wide range of topics, and emphasizes the diversity of opinions. Chappell also defends Humanist funeral ceremonies as dignified and respectful, contrasting them with potentially impersonal Christian funerals. He also discusses the potential of Humanist ceremonies for weddings.

Other Content

• "Bewitched and bewildered" by Lovell Brown: A personal account of a perceived curse from a woman named Elvira, and how the author ultimately found the experience to be beneficial, leading to a fitter lifestyle and weight loss.
• "SPRITE" comic strip: A humorous comic strip about materialization, with characters discussing the terms of a deal.
• "Skeptical sights": A brief note thanking a reader for photographic evidence of 'alien infiltration' in Stockport, Cheshire.
• Notes and References: Extensive lists of sources and references for the articles.
• Advertisement: An advertisement for a musical hymn for skeptics, "Il rasoio di Ockham."
• Call for Contributors: Information on how to get involved with producing The Skeptic magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently adopts a rationalist and skeptical stance, critically examining phenomena often associated with the paranormal, pseudoscience, and fringe beliefs. The magazine aims to provide evidence-based analysis and debunk unsubstantiated claims. Themes recurring in this issue include the historical analysis of unexplained events (Zeppelin sightings), the critique of pseudoscientific fads (Feng Shui), and the defense of secular, rationalist philosophies (Humanism) against perceived dogma or irrationality. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and a rejection of superstition and unfounded beliefs.

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 11, Number 3, published in 1997, features a "Psychic Diary" by Toby Howard, exploring various unconventional claims and phenomena with a skeptical eye. The magazine covers topics ranging from purported immortality devices to the humorous Ig Nobel Prizes, and includes reviews of books on astrology, intuition, miracles, mythology, and scientific interpretation.

Magnetic Madness

Toby Howard's column, "Magnetic Madness," discusses Alex Chiu's claims of achieving immortality through his "Eternal Life Foot Braces" and magnetic rings. Chiu asserts that attaching magnets to the body's negative and positive terminals can lead to eternal youth and cure diseases. Howard notes Chiu's earnest, capital-letter-filled website and his other inventions, including a teleportation machine and new theories on gravitation and animal thought. Despite Chiu's extensive testimonials, Howard remains unconvinced, humorously noting that Chiu has never replied to his email.

Skeptic at Large

Wendy Grossman's "Skeptic at Large" column focuses on the Ig Nobel Prizes, highlighting scientist Harold Hillman's award for research on pain experienced during execution. The article details the humorous nature of the awards, which celebrate achievements that "cannot, or should not, be reproduced." It mentions other winning teams and past recipients like Nick Leeson and L. Ron Hubbard. The column also touches on the controversy surrounding the awards, with science advisor Sir Robert May complaining that they risk bringing serious research into ridicule. A lawsuit filed against the event's organizer, Marc Abrahams, is also mentioned.

Reviews

Moonshine

Marjorie Mackintosh reviews J.V. Stewart's book "Astrology: What's Really in the Stars." The book is divided into two parts: the history of astrology and a section on "Errors, Discrepancies, and Questions." Mackintosh finds Stewart's writing awkward and amateurish, lacking clear explanations and containing factual errors, such as misrepresenting Alexander the Great's role in spreading Greek culture. She concludes that while the subject is good, the book is poorly executed.

Gut feelings

Richard Wiseman reviews Laura Day's "Practical Intuition." The book offers exercises to harness intuition, but Wiseman takes issue with parts suggesting intuition can access hidden information and predict the future. He finds the sections on personal readings and predicting race-horse winners difficult to swallow and not recommended for a skeptical audience.

What is a miracle anyway?

Wolf Roder reviews Cassandra Eason's "Miracles: A Collection of True Stories Which Prove that Miracles Do Happen." Roder notes that Eason does not define miracles and presents stories of unusual events, but none that are impossible. He points out that Eason's examples, like remissions from cancer or surviving disasters, do not necessarily rely on religion. Roder concludes that while the stories are interesting, they do not prove anything and that there are no rules for miracles.

Deities great and small

Elizabeth Hallam's edited book "Gods and Goddesses" is reviewed by an unnamed author. The book provides brief descriptions of 130 deities from various cultures. The reviewer notes the lack of Christian and Islamic gods, the absence of consistent chronology, and the reliance on modern illustrations. The book is described as a descriptive work for quick reference rather than a scholarly study.

Science lessons

Willem Betz reviews John H. Fennick's "Studies Show: A Popular Guide to Understanding Scientific Studies." Fennick aims to equip readers with tools to critically evaluate scientific claims, particularly in health fads. Betz highlights Fennick's emphasis on the unreliability of single studies and the subjective nature of statistics, quoting Fennick's advice to "develop a strong disregard for 'strong correlations'" and his final comforting advice: "if you're healthy and happy, keep doing what you do."

Happy anniversary

This section reviews two books on UFOs published in commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's sighting and the Roswell incident.

Alien Contacts and Encounters

Jenny Randles and Peter Hough's "Alien Contacts and Encounters" is described as a general readership book with 36 chapters covering different periods of ufology. The reviewer disputes its claim of being a fully updated edition. The authors are noted for presenting cases in a way that suggests controlling intelligence but ambiguously state that they do not know if UFOs are alien craft. They predict that modern technology will lead to indisputable evidence of alien craft in the near future.

UFO 1947–1997: Fifty Years of Flying Saucers

Edited by Hilary Evans and Dennis Stacy, this more expensive hardback is aimed at a well-informed readership. Its 29 chapters feature contributions from various authors analyzing individual cases and UFO flaps. The review contrasts the presentation of the Trans-en-Provence case with R&H's book, suggesting that E&S's analysis points to the case being elevated to classic status due to investigators' wish-to-believe and sloppy procedures. The reviewer concludes that the lack of a single indisputable case accepted by all ufologists suggests the ET hypothesis may be built on shaky foundations.

Letters

Donut be fooled

Simon Jones corrects a common misconception about John F. Kennedy's "Ich bin ein Berliner!" speech, stating that it translates to "I am a Berliner" or "a male person/native of Berlin," not "I am a jelly doughnut."

The Humanism debate

This section presents letters in response to Mike Walsh's article on Humanism.

• John Bosley agrees with Walsh about rituals but notes that imperfect beings still have needs that organized religions previously satisfied. As a humanist officiant, he offers an alternative to traditional funerals.
• Dene Bebbington shares Walsh's negative view of "The Freethinker" magazine but finds the suggestion that a doctor's letter advocating execution of petty criminals reflects on Secular Humanists absurd. He criticizes Walsh's petulant tone and argues that marking life events with Humanist ceremonies is not arrogance.
• Chris Condon suggests Mike Walsh read "Free Inquiry" magazine, edited by Paul Kurtz, as an alternative to other humanist publications. Condon takes issue with Walsh's comment about gay men and lesbians, finding it flippant and equating homosexuality with pedophilia and bestiality, which he believes will enrage gay and lesbian readers.
• Andy Brice sympathizes with Walsh's experiences with humanism and agrees that gay men and lesbians have common ground in feeling alienated and discriminated against. He criticizes Walsh's comment as inappropriate, especially after Walsh's own remarks about "unnecessarily offensive remarks" directed at believers.

Hilary Evans' Paranormal Picture Gallery

This section features a cover image from "Le Petit Inventeur," No. 31, 1929, depicting a robot servant of the future. The accompanying text, attributed to an unnamed artist, humorously describes the robot's capabilities and the wife's practical, albeit cynical, reaction to the invention.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and unconventional beliefs. The magazine actively debunks myths, scrutinizes questionable research, and promotes scientific literacy. Recurring themes include UFOs, alternative medicine, astrology, and the psychology of belief. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, emphasizing the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, critical thinking, and the avoidance of unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to provide readers with a rational perspective on phenomena often shrouded in mystery or sensationalism.