Skeptic - 1997 - Vol 11 No 1

Magazine Overview

The Skeptic, Volume 11, Number 1

This issue of "The Skeptic" magazine, dated Volume 11, Number 1, is presented as a special anniversary edition, marking the publication's 10th year. The cover prominently features a portrait of Sigmund Freud and the headline "Psychoanalysis: Fact or Fiction?", suggesting a critical examination of the field. Other highlighted topics include "Remembering Carl Sagan", "The truth about the Mars Effect", "Sleep paralysis or alien abductions?", "Runes and the New Age", the formation of a "New British skeptical group", and "X-Files and skeptics". The magazine also indicates sections for "News", "Book Reviews", "Comment", and "Humour", with a cover price of £2.50.

Editorial

The editorial section addresses the magazine's production difficulties, noting that this anniversary issue is significantly late. The editors apologize profusely for the delay and reassure readers that the magazine is not going out of business. They express gratitude to the many individuals who have contributed to "The Skeptic" over the past decade, emphasizing that writers and illustrators receive no monetary reward. Special thanks are given to illustrators Tim Pearce, Donald Rooum, and Nick Kim, and to regular columnist Wendy Grossman, who also co-founded the magazine. Hilary Evans of the Mary Evans Picture Library is thanked for providing pictures and occasional articles. Dave Martin is credited for managing the subscription database, and other contributors like proofreaders and legal advisors are also acknowledged. The editorial highlights the magazine's precarious financial situation and the significant impact of anonymous donations. Readers are thanked for their continued support, even when their subscriptions are overdue.

Production Issues and Solutions

The editorial explains that the primary problem causing the delays is the editors' increasing workload due to their full-time academic positions. Both editors work in their spare time to produce the magazine, which they believe rivals professionally produced publications. To alleviate this overwork, "The Skeptic" will transition from a bi-monthly to a quarterly publication, starting with this issue. Importantly, subscribers will receive the number of issues they have paid for, effectively extending subscriptions (e.g., a one-year subscription becomes an 18-month subscription for the quarterly magazine). The subscriber database will continue to track payments and issue renewal notices. This change aims to allow the production of the same high-quality magazine while reducing stress.

Long-Term Solutions and Volunteer Needs

The magazine seeks long-term solutions to its understaffing by appealing for volunteers in three key areas:

1. Circulation Manager: Someone with skills, knowledge, or enthusiasm to expand the subscriber base through cost-effective means. The goal is to attract readers with a rational interest in the paranormal. This role is initially unremunerated but could lead to a salary from increased subscription income.
2. Advertising Manager: A volunteer to secure appropriate advertising and potentially develop a classified advertisement section. While "The Skeptic" has generally avoided advertising for ethical reasons, it is seen as a potential income source for improvement. This role is also initially unremunerated but negotiable for future salary.
3. Webmaster: Someone to take over and develop the magazine's website, making it an attractive and informative advertisement for "The Skeptic" on the World-Wide Web.

Additionally, the magazine welcomes any other ideas for promotion, such as suggestions for friendly newsagents or booksellers who might stock the publication.

Contents Overview

Editorial

(As detailed above)

Hits and Misses

By Steve Donnelly

This section covers several brief skeptical observations:

• The truth is out there: The Church of England's marketing campaign, intended to use the X-Files slogan "The Truth is Out There" (modified to "The Truth is Here") on billboards, was cancelled because they couldn't reach an agreement with 20th Century Fox over copyright. Donnelly humorously suggests alternative slogans.
• High (Church) spirits: The Catholic Church, through Vatican commentator Father Gino Concetti, has suggested that communication with the deceased in heaven or purgatory is possible, a view that contrasts with some Christian interpretations that condemn communication with the dead.
• Belgium's official psychic: The Belgian gendarmerie, investigating missing children, have employed a psychic medium after testing several candidates. While acknowledging the gendarmerie's attempt to prevent exploitation of distraught parents by charlatans, Donnelly expresses doubt that the medium will actually help locate the children.

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

The Mars Effect

By Lewis Jones

This article critically examines the "Mars Effect," a claim by Michel Gauquelin that athletic champions are disproportionately born when Mars is in specific sectors of the sky. Jones traces the history of tests and criticisms of Gauquelin's claims, starting from 1955. Early tests by the Para Committee in Belgium (1967) were ambiguous. Gauquelin's own 1976 test showed champions born more often in key sectors, but skeptics questioned his sampling methods. US tests yielded negative results. Gauquelin claimed success again with European champions, but critics pointed out he had changed criteria. The French Committee of Skeptics (CFEPP) conducted a rigorous 13-year test of over 1000 French champions. The article details the complex methodology, including excluding births after 1950 (due to induced labor and C-sections), restricting the sample to metropolitan France, and defining "champion" based on national-level competition. It also discusses complications in defining "sport" and inconsistencies in data sources. The CFEPP's conclusion was that there was "no statistical ambiguity in the results: They show no evidence for the influence of Mars on the birth of athletes." The article notes Gauquelin's attempts to alter the data and redefine categories, which the CFEPP rejected. Jan Willem Nienhuys, a Dutch mathematician, highlights errors in town hall data and issues with Gauquelin's reporting, stating that starting from scratch yields no evidence for the Mars Effect. The article concludes by mentioning Michel Gauquelin's suicide on May 20, 1991, and his alleged instructions to destroy his data.

Norse Manure

By David Hambling

This article scrutinizes the New Age interpretation of Norse runes, contrasting it with their historical context. Hambling argues that the New Age version sanitizes the brutal reality of the Norsemen, who were a violent people whose religion involved blood sacrifices, including human captives. The article explains that runes were originally magical symbols used for divination and memorial carving, possibly derived from the Etruscan alphabet and appearing around the 3rd century BC. The "modern rune craze" is attributed to Ralph Blum's 1982 book "The Book Of Runes," which Hambling claims has no connection to Norse roots but is derived from the Chinese I Ching and the author's imagination. The article criticizes the lack of historical records on rune interpretation, leading to a proliferation of books where authors invent their own methods. It highlights the "pick 'n' mix" approach of the New Age, combining runes with elements from Taoism, Native American beliefs, and crystal lore, often stripped of their original religious context. The article questions the protective value of runes without their religious framework, comparing it to a Hindu expecting protection from a St. Christopher medallion. It also notes that the SS, the Nazi elite, resurrected rune mythology, particularly the double 'Sigel' rune, as a symbol of their supposed Viking heritage. The article concludes that the New Age rune-lore is a commercial product with no real connection to the ancient art of casting runes, trivializing the Norse religion and its pantheon.

Carl Sagan: An Appreciation

By James Randi

James Randi pays tribute to Carl Sagan, whom he lists as one of his five "real super-heroes." Randi laments Sagan's passing as a "terrible loss." He describes Sagan as an astronomer who taught at Cornell University and became a renowned "explainer" to the public, reaching an estimated 400 million people through his "Cosmos" series. Randi emphasizes Sagan's ability to convey the excitement of scientific discovery and promote critical thinking. Sagan is portrayed as tolerant of public inquiries, aiming to explain how the real world works and gently pointing out errors in thinking that lead to pseudoscience. Randi mentions Sagan's final book, "The Demon-Haunted World," noting its stronger terminology in the finished manuscript, which he speculates might have been Sagan's last statement. Randi urges readers to obtain and read the book, highlighting Sagan's eloquent, forceful, and kind communication style. He recounts Sagan's battle with a rare illness, his fortitude, and his optimism even when pale and exhausted from therapy. Randi quotes Sagan's belief that "we are all 'made of star stuff'" and praises Sagan himself as being "made of very fine star stuff." The article includes a poignant quote from Sagan's book about the increasing temptation of pseudoscience and superstition as the Millennium approaches, urging readers to "provide as much light as we can generate, to banish the darkness and make sure it does not triumph over us." Randi concludes by stating that the burden now falls on others to carry on Sagan's work.

Other Sections

• Hilary Evans' Paranormal Picture Gallery: Features a photograph by Hippolyte Baraduc, taken twenty minutes after his wife Nadine's death, which Baraduc believed captured her soul lingering near her corpse. Hilary Evans is identified as co-proprietor of the Mary Evans Picture Library.
• Time to ASKE questions: Toby Howard interviews Wayne Spencer.
• Jackie and the Aliens: By Susan Blackmore.
• Top-Ten Survey of Paranormal Phenomena of the Past Decade: By Wendy Grossman.
• Back in Time: By Russell Dear.
• Psychoanalysis: Fact or Fiction?: By Susan Crawley.
• X-Files for Skeptics: By Arthur Chappell.
• Psychic Diary: By Toby Howard.
• Skeptic at Large: By Wendy Grossman.
• Reviews: (Content not detailed in the provided pages).
• Letters: (Content not detailed in the provided pages).
• Festive Fifty Prize Quiz Answers: Lists answers to a quiz from a previous issue and provides humorous explanations for bent spoons found in the office.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "The Skeptic" revolve around critical examination of paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and popular beliefs. The magazine consistently promotes a rational, evidence-based approach, as exemplified by its articles on psychoanalysis, the Mars Effect, and New Age interpretations of runes. There is a strong emphasis on debunking unsubstantiated claims and providing factual counterarguments. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for critical thinking and scientific literacy, as articulated in the tribute to Carl Sagan and the critique of the New Age movement. The magazine also engages with popular culture, such as the X-Files, from a skeptical perspective. The publication's commitment to its mission is underscored by its efforts to overcome production challenges and its appeal for reader support and volunteer assistance.

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 11 Number 1, focuses on skepticism in the UK and internationally, featuring the launch of a new organization, an examination of alien abduction claims, a critique of psychoanalysis, and a skeptical take on the popular TV show 'The X-Files'.

ASKE: A New UK Skeptical Organisation

The lead article, "Time to ASKE questions," by Toby Howard, introduces the Association for Skeptical Enquiry (ASKE), a new UK-based organization aimed at countering the widespread promotion of pseudoscientific and paranormal claims. Wayne Spencer, a co-founder, is interviewed about the group's origins and goals. Spencer explains that ASKE was formed due to a desire to see more done against pseudoscience and to combat the isolation many skeptics experience. The organization comprises a diverse group of professionals, including a university lecturer, scientists, engineers, and others. Initially, ASKE will be funded by its members, with plans to seek external funding from science promotion schemes. The group has a steering committee of five members and aims to foster a greater exchange of information and comradeship among skeptics, promote public awareness of skeptical viewpoints, and encourage practical initiatives.

ASKE's principles include the application of rational, objective, and scientific methods to investigate claims, challenging unsupported beliefs, opposing the misrepresentation of science, supporting the evaluation of medical and psychological techniques, and promoting a rational understanding of why irrational beliefs are accepted. While respecting individuals' right to choose their beliefs, ASKE's constitution will be subject to member ratification. The organization plans to compile a directory of members, publish a bi-monthly newsletter called 'The Skeptical Intelligencer,' and potentially organize public talks and workshops. They are also arranging for Professor Stanley Jeffers to give a talk and planning a conference on skepticism within a year. ASKE will not conduct tests as an organization but may finance independent research if funds allow. They also aim to assist media queries and encourage more skeptical content in media productions.

ASKE's relationship with 'The Skeptic' magazine is one of hoped-for future communication and mutual support. They have made preliminary inquiries about joining the European Council of Skeptical Organisations and plan to publish translations of European skeptical articles. ASKE is independent of CSICOP but acknowledges its inspirational role. Membership is open to anyone who broadly agrees with ASKE's aims and principles, costing £10 per year and including a subscription to the newsletter. The steering committee reserves the right to refuse membership in extraordinary cases.

Jackie and the Aliens: Sleep Paralysis or Abduction?

Susan Blackmore's article, "Jackie and the Aliens," investigates the claim that 3.7 million Americans may have been abducted by aliens, as suggested by the 1992 Roper Poll. Blackmore questions this conclusion, which was based on indicator questions related to sleep paralysis, missing time, unexplained scars, flying experiences, and seeing lights. She proposes two hypotheses: either people have been abducted, or they have had interesting psychological experiences, primarily sleep paralysis. To test this, she conducted an experiment with children and adults in Bristol, using a 'bed-side story' designed to enhance memory recall. The results showed that a significant number of participants reported indicator experiences, but knowledge of aliens and abduction was more correlated with watching television shows like 'The X-Files' than with having these experiences. Blackmore concludes that while her findings don't disprove abductions, they suggest that knowledge of alien appearance and behavior is more influenced by media consumption than by actual experiences, casting doubt on the 3.7 million figure.

Psychoanalysis: Fact or Fiction?

Susan Crawley's essay, "Psychoanalysis: Fact or Fiction?," critically examines Freudian psychoanalysis. The essay highlights that while Freud's ideas have permeated culture, they have faced significant criticism within academic psychology for being unscientific and the therapy ineffective. Crawley focuses on what she considers wrong with Freud's original theories, including psychic determinism, the concepts of the conscious, preconscious, and unconscious mind, and the tripartite structure of personality (id, ego, superego). The essay discusses Freud's psychosexual stage theory and the idea that childhood experiences shape adult behavior. A major criticism is that Freud's theories are often unfalsifiable and difficult to test, relying on retrospective explanations rather than predictive power. The essay points out that Freud dispensed with empirical methods, basing his theories on a biased sample and possibly selectively writing up case notes. The concept of repression is discussed, particularly in relation to recovered memories of child sexual abuse, noting the difficulty in verifying repressed memories and the ethical concerns of implanting them. The essay also critiques the circularity of evidence used to support theories, such as the symbolic meaning of dreams. It mentions that attempts to make psychoanalysis testable have often failed or have been criticized for overlooking simpler explanations or invoking concepts like reaction formation. The essay concludes that psychoanalysis, due to its lack of empirical support and difficulty in testing, has often been justifiably criticized as unscientific, casting doubt on its value despite Freud's groundbreaking work in conceptualizing human functioning.

X-Files for Skeptics

Arthur Chappell's article, "X-Files for Skeptics," argues that the popular TV show 'The X-Files,' despite its subject matter, is not pro-occult propaganda but rather science fiction hokum. Chappell notes that the show's producers aim to explore absurd possibilities and urban myths with deadpan humor. He highlights episodes where seemingly paranormal events are explained by mundane causes, such as an alligator being responsible for killings in 'Quagmire.' The article points out that the show's stars do not believe in the occult in real life and that the production team has tried to broaden the show's appeal beyond the pro-occult lobby. Chappell praises the show's healthy scorn and its ability to turn genre stories on their heads, comparing it to the work of Lewis Carroll. He concludes that 'The X-Files' is best understood as science fiction that explores what the world would be like if old wives' tales and urban legends were true, and suggests that critics should focus on real paranormal claims rather than fictional portrayals.

Psychic Diary: A Tangled Web of Independent Thinkers

Toby Howard's "Psychic Diary" column discusses the phenomenon of "Independent Thinkers" who disseminate their views online. He introduces "Archimedes Plutonium," who has a theory called "231 Plutonium Atom Totality," suggesting the entire universe is a single Plutonium atom. Plutonium's ideas, which he claims unify all sciences, include explanations for chemical elements, the fine-structure constant, cosmic background radiation, and a rejection of evolution and general relativity. Howard notes that Plutonium's emails are difficult to manage due to pranks and spam, leading him to adopt a "trashcan-unopened" approach. The article highlights how the internet has provided a platform for such individuals to share their theories without the costs of traditional publishing. Howard mentions a subscription service that provides summaries of "psychoceramics" (a term for crackpot theories). He quotes Plutonium's assertion of being the "King of Physics" and ordained by the Atom, emphasizing the disconnect between these thinkers and mainstream science.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently promotes a skeptical and rational approach to understanding the world. The establishment of ASKE signifies a concerted effort within the UK to actively counter pseudoscience and paranormal claims. The articles on alien abductions and psychoanalysis critically examine phenomena often accepted uncritically, advocating for evidence-based reasoning and scientific methodology. The 'X-Files' piece reinforces the idea of distinguishing between fiction and reality, while the 'Psychic Diary' column highlights the challenges of navigating unsubstantiated claims in the digital age. The overall stance of The Skeptic magazine is clearly in favor of critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and the debunking of pseudoscientific and paranormal beliefs.

Skeptic at Large by Wendy Grossman

Wendy Grossman, founder and writer for The Skeptic, reflects on the magazine entering its second decade. She acknowledges the significant effort by Toby and Steve in maintaining the publication for eight years. The editorial touches upon the passing of Carl Sagan and Isaac Asimov in 1996, noting that Sagan's astronomy class at Cornell University was narrowly missed by Grossman as a student. The piece also mentions the release of Sagan's book, 'The Demon-Haunted World,' and Grossman's regret at not having read more of his works while he was alive.

The editorial is dedicated to Martin Gardner, whose work influenced Grossman's involvement in skeptical matters. She recounts how James Randi's lecture in January 1982 introduced her to techniques for testing beliefs, but it was Gardner who truly sparked her interest in CSICOP. Gardner's influence is also noted through his Scientific American columns, which provided instructions for making flexagons, a mathematical construct.

Grossman shares a personal anecdote about her 9th and 10th-grade math teacher, Nancy Rosenberg, who was unconventional and introduced her to Gardner's work. The teacher's unique methods, including using the Greek character theta for Thursday and her enthusiasm for 'Portnoy's Complaint,' are fondly remembered.

The editorial concludes with a thank you to Gardner, acknowledging his broad influence on mathematicians, skeptics, and many others.

Reviews

Myths and mysteries

The Paranormal Source Book by Jenny Randles (Piatkus, £14.99)

Reviewed by Mike Walsh, this book is described as covering paranormal subjects in alphabetical order, from alien abductions to life after death. Each section includes a definition, historical review, advice, research methods, recent occurrences, and sources. Walsh notes that Randles recommends many of her own publications. While the book aims to 'steer a path between the myths and the mysteries,' Walsh finds it tends to concentrate more on myths, citing 'tired old stuff' like the Roper poll and the representation of quantum physics as paranormal. He mentions figures like Erich Von Däniken, George Adamski, and David Icke, alongside Carl Sagan, Sue Blackmore, and Hilary Evans. Despite not changing his view of the paranormal, Walsh considers it a useful volume for background information and lists of individuals and organizations.

The magic of science

Behind the Crystal Ball by Anthony Aveni (Newleaf, £20)

Reviewed by Mike Hutton, this book explores the theory and practice of magic. Hutton finds it thoughtful and informative but questions its success in demonstrating that science and magic once coexisted comfortably. He argues that science has displaced magic due to its power to predict and control events and its ability to update knowledge, whereas magic remains static. Hutton acknowledges the historical and cultural significance of magical thinking but believes it doesn't offer valuable insights into the present world. He suggests it would make a useful reference work with a good bibliography.

Dumb numbers

The Modern Numerology: A Practical Guide to the Meaning and Influence of Numbers by John King (Blandford, £8.99)

Reviewed by Martin S Taylor, this book is described as bizarre, covering light mathematics, arcane history, and metaphysical claptrap with numerous non-sequiturs. Taylor highlights examples of King's simplistic statements about numbers, such as 'The largest number is, of course, infinity.' The book discusses the history of numbers and then delves into numerological interpretations, linking names to numbers and prime significance. Taylor expresses doubt that King's proposed study correlating lucky numbers with gematria interpretation would ever be funded.

Desperately seeking Nessie

The Loch Ness Monster: The Evidence by Steuart Campbell (Birlinn, £6.99)

Reviewed by Mike Walsh, this book examines the physical evidence for the Loch Ness Monster, including photographs, film, video, and sonar. Walsh notes the paucity of evidence presented, with only twenty-one photographs and twenty-six pieces of film over sixty years. He criticizes Campbell for being selective in his case discussions and for his conclusion that if Nessie doesn't exist, then no monsters exist in any lake. Despite these faults, Walsh deems it a useful book but less well-structured than Ronald Binns' 'The Loch Ness Mystery Solved.'

Science without sense

Science Without Limits: Toward a Theory of Interaction Between Nature and Knowledge by James S Perlman (Prometheus, £25.50)

Reviewed by Martin Bridgstock, this book aims to examine the scientist's role in understanding the world. Bridgstock finds the book badly focused, incoherent, and badly written, with examples limited to astronomy and physics. He criticizes the narrow scope and the neglect of many aspects of the scientist's role. The book relies on old sources, with one chapter based on a unit from nearly 50 years ago. Bridgstock suggests Perlman needed more time to clarify his ideas or that the editors should have ensured the work was completed properly.

Selling wellness

Perfect Digestion and Boundless Energy by Deepak Chopra (Rider, £7.99 each)

Reviewed by Michael Hutton, these books offer an Ayurvedic approach to gastrointestinal problems and chronic fatigue. Hutton notes that they combine simple anatomy and physiology with advice on lifestyle and then detail Ayurvedic principles. He finds a lack of logical connection between the two parts and questions the need for philosophical intricacies when simple advice is available. He also mentions a Harvard School of Public Health report warning about the unproven benefits of such therapies.

Can a comic book be dull?

Cosmo and his Search for the Meaning of Life by Sue Stack (Findhorn Press, £4.95)

Reviewed by Wolf Roder, this Australian comic book is described as containing New Age phrases and concepts. It includes instructions on seeing auras and activating chakras, and mentions near-death experiences, acupuncture, reiki, and mind reading. Roder finds the drawings not very good and not funny. The plot, concerning Cosmo the koala seeking the meaning of life, is described as preachy and lacking humor or surprise. The reviewer suggests bailing out when the companions find 50,000-year-old scrolls.

Mind science

The Prehistory of the Mind: A Search for the Origins of Art, Religion and Science by Stephen Mithin (Thames & Hudson, £16.95)

Reviewed by Nick Beard, this book is described as an intelligent piece of 'popular science' that explores the archaeology of mind science. Mithin's main thesis is that archaeologists can contribute to the study of the human mind by understanding its origins. Beard finds the book offers an enjoyable collection of smart, wittily presented ideas and unusual facts.

Odd bods

The Mammoth Book of Oddities by Frank O'Neil (Robinson Publishing, £4.98)

Reviewed by Martin Bridgstock, this book contains over 500 pages of 'bizarre, weird and amazing facts and feats,' with no paranormal content. Bridgstock highlights 'Culinary Oddities' such as toasted dung-beetle and cat dung coffee. He criticizes the lack of an index and the disorganized 'sources' section. Bridgstock notes that the book has no discernible plot or theme, and that the real world is so bizarre that the paranormal is not needed.

Life goes on

Reincarnation: A Critical Examination by Paul Edwards (Prometheus, £24.50)

Reviewed by Martin Bridgstock, this book examines arguments for reincarnation and Karma, concluding the evidence is worthless. Edwards reviews beliefs, theories, and recent claims, dismissing them. The review highlights Edwards' writing style, characterized by heavy sarcasm, which Bridgstock finds irritating. He also notes that Edwards seems to dismiss claims that don't align with his own views. Despite its thorough review of evidence, Bridgstock feels the book's impact is weakened by its self-satisfied tone.

Prophet and loss

The Fortean Times Book of the Millennium by Kevin McClure (John Brown Publishing, L9.99)

Reviewed by Chris Willis, this book explores end-of-the-world prophecies from biblical times to the present. Willis notes the contradictions between prophecies and sympathizes with the idea of a computer Antichrist. The book examines various figures, including Nostradamus and New Age gurus, and highlights disturbing links between modern prophets and right-wing politics, such as anti-Semitism and 'White Supremacy' movements. Willis encourages readers to challenge such ideas.

Bookwatch

This section provides brief descriptions of recent books:

• Medical Curiosities by Robert M Youngson (Robinson, £6.99): A collection of medically bizarre examples, described as hilarious and deeply shocking.
• Lo! by Charles Fort (Revised by X) (John Brown, £9.99): A revised edition of Fort's work, described as iconoclastic but hard going due to Fort's prose.
• The Book of World Religions by John Bowker (Dorling Kindersley, £25): A well-illustrated study of major faiths, described as a masterpiece.
• Fairies by Janet Bord (Michael O'Mara, £15.99): Bord's historical and contemporary research on fairies is noted.
• Deception and Self-deception: Investigating Psychics by Richard Wiseman (Prometheus Books, $25.95): A collection of articles on psychic fraud and mediumistic trickery.
• UFO 1947-1997 (Hilary Evans & Dennis Stacy, Eds) (John Brown, £16.99): A serious work on 50 years of UFO culture with contributions from UFOlogists.
• The Complete Book of UFOs by Jenny Randles & Peter Hough (Piatkus, £6.99): A more populist take on UFO culture.

Letters

Really useful

John Wallington of Torquay questions South West Water's advice to reduce hot water tank temperature, suggesting it saves nothing if the bath temperature remains the same. He wonders if they are helping customers 'tap' into the paranormal.

Thank you

A reader from London sent a £500 cheque to support the magazine's cause of exposing fakers, stating that if the magazine has saved even one person from cult involvement, its efforts are worthwhile.

Nasty things

Peter Lancaster of Maldon, Essex, appreciates The Skeptic's coverage of human gullibility and finds that the magazine and 'The Freethinker' provide good coverage. He questions the relevance of clitoridectomy to skeptical thought and suggests Jim Josefsson join pressure groups if he feels strongly about it. Lancaster prefers to read about 'nasty things' in context, citing Wendy Grossman's article as a good example.

School books

Helen and Charles Goodwin suggest that skeptics should try to get books like James Randi's 'Flim-Flam' onto school curricula, questioning why creationists can do it but skeptics cannot.

Science fiction

Simon Dickerson notes a WH Smith display featuring 'SCIENCE FACT' books, including works by Erich von Däniken and Nostradamus, alongside only one token 'real science' book. He observes that 'millennium fever is paraded as fact.'

God's reward

Martin S Taylor responds to a previous mention of a study suggesting elderly Christians are healthier due to church attendance. Taylor suggests it might simply be because those too ill to attend church are less healthy.

Wanted

Ian Carstairs is seeking specific BBC documentaries on video: 'Everyman: Science Friction' on Creationism and Miracles, and the series 'The Ascent of Man' by J. Bronowski.

Back Issues

This section lists available back issues of The Skeptic from Volume 4 (1990) to Volume 10 (1996), with descriptions of the contents of each issue. Discounts are offered for purchasing multiple back issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic revolve around critical examination of paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and New Age beliefs. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, scrutinizing evidence, methodology, and the motivations behind such claims. There is a strong emphasis on scientific reasoning and a critique of flawed arguments and research. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting rational thought and debunking irrationality, while also acknowledging the value of genuine scientific inquiry and the importance of historical context. The magazine also serves as a platform for book reviews that align with these skeptical principles, offering critical assessments of works that touch upon the paranormal, science, and related topics. The inclusion of letters from readers further highlights engagement with these themes and provides a space for diverse viewpoints within the skeptical community.