Skeptic - 1997 - Vol 11 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 11, Number 2
Date: 1997 (implied by copyright)
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £2.50

This issue of *The Skeptic* magazine, published bimonthly from Manchester, UK, features a cover story titled "Organ Snatchers: Myth or Reality?" by Peter Burger. The magazine has adopted a new printing method, directly from computer disk, to improve quality and control costs, introducing a small amount of paid advertising for readers. The issue also includes articles on "Ginseng - tastes like a vegetable, looks like a man," a session with a regression hypnotist, and "Humanism - the atheist's religion?" alongside news, book reviews, comment, and humor.

Hilary Evans' Paranormal Picture Gallery

This section, curated by Hilary Evans, co-proprietor of the Mary Evans Picture Library, presents a picture of Harry Houdini (Ehrich Weiss) in 1925, questioning whether his skepticism concealed a passionate wish-to-believe. The article ponders his motives for visiting spirit mediums incognito and whether he sought to debunk or be convinced.

Editorial

The editorial announces a change in the magazine's printing process, moving to direct computer disk printing. This new technology offers greater control over the publication and aims for consistently high printing quality. To offset the slightly higher costs associated with this technology without increasing the subscription price, *The Skeptic* is introducing a small amount of paid advertising, offered first to its readers. The editors reserve the right to refuse inappropriate advertisements.

Contents

The issue includes the following articles:

• Hits and Misses by Steve Donnelly
• Organ Snatchers by Peter Burger
• The Adaptable Medicine by Simon Brophy
• The Alternative to Religion by Mike Walsh
• The Skeptic's Dictionary by Robert Todd Carroll
• Many Happy Returns by Melissa Krausey
• Psychic Diary by Toby Howard
• Skeptic at Large by Wendy Grossman
• Reviews
• Letters

Hits and Misses

Computer therapy

Steve Donnelly reports on the rise of computer software in psychotherapy, citing a program called 'Fear Fighter' that reportedly helps patients with irrational fears as effectively as human therapists. The article suggests that this technology could even be applied to sensitive areas, such as replacing priests in confessionals for the Catholic Church in Australia, given the current fears surrounding paedophile priests.

Repaying old debts

This piece recounts the case of Roger Katz, a teacher in California who, when found with a naked 14-year-old schoolgirl, claimed the girl was a mature woman in 640 AD Tibet where he had been a monk and was merely repaying a 'debt of love and devotion'. Despite psychological reports indicating he was not delusional, he was sentenced to 18 months in jail.

Homeopathic detergent

The article introduces the 'Earthsmart Laundry CD', a product claimed to be an environmentally safe laundry detergent replacement. It works by emitting a charge into the water, breaking molecular bonds and using quantum physics principles, similar to homeopathy, to clean fabrics. The device is priced at $89.95 and is said to last for 50 years.

Digital water memory

This section discusses the research of Jacques Benveniste on water memory. Benveniste and his colleagues claim to have sent homeopathic influences via email, demonstrating that water can retain these influences even when transmitted electronically.

Woolly thinking

An anecdote from Hampshire describes sheep exhibiting unusual intelligence by using a cattle grid as a barrier, with one sheep lying on it to allow the entire flock to cross.

Mancunian UFOs

A survey by the Manchester Evening News revealed that 79% of Mancunians believe in flying saucers, despite the city's reputation for being down-to-earth. The article also mentions an advertisement by Canon cameras that claimed their cameras would prevent alien abduction.

Drink and be slim

This piece discusses 'Beer Blok' pills, undergoing trials in the UK, which are designed to prevent beer calories from being converted into fat. It also mentions Olestra, an oil substitute used in potato crisps that is not absorbed by the body but may cause anal leakage.

Organ Snatchers: Myth or Reality?

Peter Burger's article critically examines the sensational stories of organ theft, particularly those originating from Latin America, which have haunted the media for years. Burger argues that these horror stories are largely based on rumors and legends, often amplified by documentaries and media reports.

Pedro Reggi's Case

The documentary "Organ Snatchers" highlights the case of Pedro Reggi, who claims his corneas were stolen while he was in a mental institution. However, an examination by Dutch ophthalmologist Mrs. H. Vilker-Dieben suggests Reggi's corneas are clouded due to old infections and scar tissue, not theft. Medical records indicate he was born with bilateral glaucoma and lost his eyesight due to eye diseases.

Jeison's Eyes

Another controversial case from the documentary involves Jeison Cruz Vargas, a 10-year-old boy whose mother claims his eyes were removed during a hospital stay for diarrhea. The hospital and the Colombian government have contested this, with an ombudsman stating Jeison never underwent an eye operation. French specialists examined Jeison and confirmed that his eyeballs, though atrophied, are still present, and the infection that damaged his eyesight is common in malnourished infants.

The Blood Carriage Moral

This section traces the origins of organ theft rumors back to historical panics, such as the blood libel legend and the 1750 Parisian panic involving alleged child kidnappings. The "Blood Carriage" legend, where a rich lady lures children with sweets, is presented as a precursor to modern organ theft rumors, suggesting a consistent narrative of exploitation of the vulnerable.

Hansel and Gretel

Marie-Monique Robin is not the first to raise concerns about organ trafficking. Reports of organ-napping surfaced in 1987, with a Honduran paper claiming disabled children were sold for 'spare parts.' These initial reports were often retracted, but the press frequently ignored the retractions, fueling the narrative. Soviet media also amplified these stories. The European Parliament has passed resolutions condemning organ traffic.

The EuroKidney Gang

This section discusses contemporary legends of organ theft in the Netherlands and other parts of Europe, mirroring the Latin American narratives. Stories involve tourists being anaesthetized and waking up with a missing kidney. A version involving children at Disneyland near Paris also emerged. Despite widespread fear, no victims or parents have ever come forward, suggesting these are contemporary legends.

Lynch Justice for Child Snatchers

This part details incidents in Guatemala in 1994 where American tourists, Melissa Larson and June Weinstock, were brutally attacked and accused of being child snatchers due to circulating rumors. These events highlight the dangerous consequences of mass hysteria fueled by unsubstantiated stories.

A Children's Exodus

This section explores the origins of organ theft rumors, suggesting they are not inspired by actual crimes but rather by the synthesis of real-world issues like adoption and organ traffic in Latin America. The article posits that these rumors reflect the perceptions of the poor regarding exploitation by the wealthy and powerful.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of *The Skeptic* consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards sensational claims, particularly those related to paranormal phenomena and conspiracy theories. The magazine prioritizes evidence-based analysis, debunking sensational stories like the 'Organ Snatchers' by examining medical records and expert opinions. It highlights the role of rumor, folklore, and media amplification in creating and perpetuating such narratives. The editorial stance is one of rational inquiry, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to seek verifiable facts. The introduction of advertising also signals a pragmatic approach to sustaining the publication while maintaining its critical mission.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 11 Number 2
Date: 1994
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK

This issue of The Skeptic magazine features a range of articles critically examining various phenomena, from the prevalence of urban legends and conspiracy theories to philosophical and alternative belief systems.

The Adaptable Medicine: Ginseng

Simon Brophy's article, "The Adaptable Medicine," scrutinizes the claims surrounding ginseng, a plant whose root is often said to resemble the human form. Brophy notes that 'ginseng' is a collective name for several plants, with Panax ginseng and Eleutherococcus senticosus being the most common. He highlights that while these plants contain compounds like ginsenosides and eleutherosides, the evidence for their claimed medicinal benefits—such as improving stamina, calming nerves, and treating various ailments—is largely based on anecdotal evidence and shaky research. The article points out that the industry thrives on the exotic nature of the plant and its high price, and that its preparation involves harsh treatments with no official standard of pharmacological activity. Brophy also touches upon the concept of 'adaptogens,' suggesting that the perceived benefits might stem from weak steroid-like activities or simply a placebo effect, and that claims of improving sexual activity could be ironically attributed to any positive life event.

The Alternative to Religion?

Mike Walsh, in "The Alternative to Religion? A brief brush with humanism," explores his journey as an atheist seeking a secular belief system. He initially considers Humanism, finding the American Humanist Association's emphasis on reason and science appealing. However, he becomes disillusioned upon reading "A Humanist Declaration of Peace," which he finds too idealistic and impractical, particularly its stance on war and conscientious objection. His concerns are further amplified by the "New Humanism" movement and its "Copenhagen Declaration," which he criticizes for its perceived socialist leanings and call for revolution. Walsh then turns to "The Freethinker," a Humanist periodical, but finds its editor's views on Cuba to be overly optimistic and its content often filled with vitriol against religion. He criticizes the magazine for its perceived attempts to form a religion with its own dogma and rites, and for its espousal of concepts like the 'Gay and Lesbian' movement, which he finds illogical.

Walsh concludes that neither organized religion nor Humanism offers him a satisfactory framework for life. He advocates for a personal philosophy of "Walshism," characterized by healthy skepticism, a desire to avoid judgment, tolerance, and an acknowledgment of his own occasional unreasonableness, intolerance, and bias.

The Skeptic's Dictionary: Angels are back in fashion

Robert Todd Carroll's "The Skeptic's Dictionary" entry on angels discusses the resurgence of belief in these bodiless, immortal spirits, which are prominent in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Carroll notes that angels appear in the Bible in significant roles and that the cult of guardian angels is particularly strong in the West. He observes that belief in angels can be comforting and is sometimes used by parents to monitor children's behavior. Carroll questions the depiction of angels as winged humans, arguing that such imagery enhances belief but that a truly bodiless being cannot be depicted. He suggests that the popularity of angels, evidenced by books and television programs, reflects a human desire for comfort and a way to suspend disbelief.

Many Happy Returns: An attempt to regress to a past life

Melissa Krausey recounts her experience with past life regression therapy in "Many Happy Returns." Convinced she was a Victorian governess in a previous life, she sought regression to explore this idea. She describes her session with a therapist named Cecil, who she found to be somewhat self-important. Despite Cecil's efforts, including guiding her through imaginary stairs, doors, and tunnels, Krausey found herself unable to access any past life memories, concluding that she had no past beyond her current existence. The experience ended with a negotiated half-price deal for the session, and Krausey never discovered her supposed aversion to whelks.

Psychic Diary: Monkey business

Toby Howard's "Psychic Diary" entry, "Monkey business," explores the world of conspiracy theories, likening them to underground rivers. He mentions well-known theories like Watergate and JFK's assassination, and the idea of UFOs being advanced alien technology. Howard then introduces a peculiar conspiracy theory: that the world is controlled by hyper-intelligent, telepathic, purple monkeys from the Amazon rainforest. This theory, which traces its origins to ancient Egypt and later appears in Crete, suggests these monkeys manipulate humanity through holograms and fund their operations through bogus 'Save the Rainforest' charities. Howard finds this theory appealing as it offers an explanation for human problems without invoking a deity.

Notes and References

The extensive notes section provides a detailed bibliography of sources cited in the articles, particularly for the discussions on organ theft rumors and urban legends, as well as for the articles on ginseng and Humanism. This section includes references to various academic journals, books, and news publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic magazine consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards pseudoscientific claims, paranormal phenomena, and unsubstantiated beliefs. The articles in this issue challenge the validity of ginseng's medicinal properties, question the tenets and practices of Humanism, debunk the notion of angels as literal beings, and critically examine the appeal and logic of conspiracy theories. The magazine promotes a worldview grounded in reason, science, and critical thinking, often contrasting these with what it perceives as irrationality, dogma, and wishful thinking in alternative belief systems and organized religions.

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 11, Number 2, published quarterly, features a cover story titled 'Skeptic at Large' by Wendy Grossman. The issue delves into various topics related to skepticism, paranormal phenomena, and critical analysis of claims.

Skeptic at Large: Getting things in perspective

Wendy Grossman reflects on the media's tendency to prioritize sensationalism over substance, drawing a parallel between the public's fascination with the 'Who shot JR?' storyline in the 1980s and the media's coverage of the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident versus the Mars landing in the summer of 1997. She notes how the Roswell Festival was marketed as a tacky theme park version of UFOlogy, contrasting it with the serious scientific endeavors of space exploration. Grossman observes that while Mars garnered more news coverage, Roswell dominated talk shows. She highlights the internet's role, with the Mars Pathfinder site receiving an unprecedented number of hits, indicating a stronger public interest in real scientific discovery than in 'bug-eyed crash dummies'. She concludes that the general public, for once, showed more interest in factual exploration than in paranormal claims, and that the internet is emerging as a powerful news medium, akin to how the Gulf War boosted CNN.

Reviews

Scholarly Forteana

Steve Moore's edited 'Fortean Studies Volume 3' is reviewed by Richard Wiseman. The book presents scholarly articles on a variety of Fortean phenomena, including folklore surrounding 'unexplained mysteries' like Spring-Heeled Jack and 'Screaming Skull' legends, as well as discussions on giant birds, sea serpents, and the 'Singing Mouse of Devonport'. It also covers UFO-related topics, media analysis, and alien abductions. Wiseman praises the book's extensive research and documentation, noting its comprehensive footnotes and appendices, and recommends it as a model for skeptical research into Fortean phenomena.

Spectral variations

'Ghosts: Appearances of the Dead and Cultural Transformation' by R.C. Finacune is reviewed by Christopher C French. The book, a scholarly and readable historical analysis, examines how the perception and behavior of ghosts have varied throughout Western European traditions. Finacune focuses on ghost reports from England from the sixteenth century onwards, tracing changes in these perceptions and their social functions, such as reinforcing religious teachings in medieval times and serving as a basic idea of life after death in modern times.

Old trons, new trons

A.K. Dewdney's 'Yes, We Have No Neutrons: An Eye-Opening Tour through the Twists and Turns of Bad Science' is reviewed by David Langford. The book tackles various examples of pseudoscience and flawed scientific reasoning, including cold fusion, Prosper Blondlot's N-rays, IQ testing, Freud's theories, the Drake equation, neural-net systems, Biosphere 2, and J. Philippe Rushton's theories on racial IQ differences. Langford finds the book to be a well-written, lively, and informative entry-level text for those interested in pathological science, though he suggests experienced skeptics might wait for the paperback.

Unexpectedly skeptical

Peter Brookesmith's 'UFO: The Government Files' is reviewed by Chris Willis. Willis notes that despite Brookesmith's background as editor of 'The Unexplained', this book is surprisingly rational and skeptical. It covers various UFO-related topics, including an analysis of the Belgian UFO flap and a summary of the Roswell crash. The review mentions that Brookesmith's discussion of alleged government cover-ups begins with the 1942 Los Angeles Air Raid.

A very strange year

'Fortean Times Weird Year 1996' is reviewed by David Langford. This compilation of weird and wonderful news stories from 1996 includes alien abduction stories and religious phenomena. Langford finds it entertaining and a welcome opportunity to enjoy the magazine without its usual sexist advertisements. The review highlights bizarre incidents, including the 'Holy Handkerchief of Genoa' and a man impaled by a branch, and touches upon the perennial Roswell topic, questioning the continued journalistic interest in it.

Absurd pseudoscience

'Guidelines for Extrasensory Perception Research' by Julie Milton and Richard Wiseman is reviewed by Mike Walsh. This slim volume is described as a negatively defined guide, primarily serving to provide information sources for those interested in ESP studies. Walsh finds the advice simplistic and suggests it would be of limited use to both novices and experienced researchers in the field.

Knowledge and power

Steven Shapin's 'The Scientific Revolution' is reviewed by Ted Slade. The book challenges the conventional narrative of the scientific revolution, arguing that the growth of modern natural philosophy was intricately linked with shifts in religion, State power, and commerce. Shapin emphasizes Francis Bacon's concept of 'knowledge is power,' highlighting science's role in serving the State. Slade notes that the book argues rational humanism still needs defending against the resurgence of mysticism and fundamentalism.

Hidden in the mind

Robert A. Baker's 'Hidden Memories' is reviewed by Mike Walsh. Baker, a psychology lecturer, examines phenomena such as past lives, channelling, and alien abductions, attributing them to cryptomnesia. Walsh finds Baker's arguments compelling, particularly his explanation of how culture influences perceived future lives. He notes Baker's dismissive stance towards Freudian theories and his 'hard line' skepticism, suggesting the book is a thoughtful and important document for those studying supernatural phenomena.

Self-help and hyperbole

'Ashes to Ashes... Families to Dust: False Accusations of Child Abuse: A Roadmap for Survivors' by Dean Tong is reviewed by John Gillies. Gillies describes the book as a 'roadmap of a minefield,' written with passion but lacking objectivity. He notes its focus on North American resources and legal precedents, and its controversial recommendation of Dr. Ralph Underwager. The review points out that while the book aims to be a 'self-help manual,' its categorization of 'False Memory Syndrome' and 'Sexual Allegations in Divorce' as syndromes can be seen as reification.

Which witch?

David Pickering's 'Dictionary of Witchcraft' is reviewed by Wolf Roder. The dictionary focuses on European history and Christian belief, defining the witch as someone who renounced baptism and made a pact with the devil. Roder notes the book's coverage of the historical truth and reality of witchcraft events, including articles on demons, familiars, spells, and institutions like the Inquisition. It is described as strong on important figures and cross-referenced.

Letters

Independent thinkers

John Allen from London writes about the 'tangled web of Independent Thinkers,' distinguishing between those with outlandish theories and 'maverick scientists' who possess genuine qualifications but promote paranormal ideas, citing examples like Percy Seymour (astrology), Stanton Friedman (UFOs), and Jacques Benveniste (homeopathy).

Ethical ads

Chris Rycroft, writing by email, raises ethical questions about The Skeptic accepting advertisements from publishers of books on paranormal topics, dowsing kits, Tarot cards, or alternative health remedies. He suggests it might be safer to maintain an 'advert-free zone'. The Editors respond, acknowledging the ethical considerations but stating that the magazine benefits from the revenue generated by advertising, and encourages advertisers of skeptical material.

Bookwatch

This section provides brief descriptions of recent books of interest to skeptics, including:

• 'Life After Death: The Evidence' by Ian Wilson (pro-afterlife).
• 'Music: The New Age Elixir' by Lisa and Joseph Summer (critical of New Age healers).
• 'Scams From the Great Beyond' by Peter Huston (parody of paranormalist books).
• 'The Mammoth Book of Dracula' edited by Stephen Jones (short stories).
• 'What's Really in the Stars' by J.V. Stewart (skeptical look at astrology).
• 'MIB' by Jenny Randles (investigating the Men In Black legend).
• 'Plants of Mystery and Magic' by Michael Jordan (guide to plants with links to magic).
• 'Psychic Discoveries: The Iron Curtain Lifted' by Sheila Ostrander and Lynn Schroeder (updated edition on Russian psychic scene).

Order back issues

This section lists available back issues of The Skeptic from Volume 4 (1990) to Volume 11 (1997), with descriptions of their contents and prices. Several issues are marked as 'SOLD OUT'. Discounts are offered for ordering multiple back issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently promotes a critical and evidence-based approach to paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and questionable scientific theories. The magazine features reviews of books that either support or challenge these claims, with a clear preference for skeptical analysis. Themes recurring throughout the issue include UFOlogy, the nature of belief, the role of media in shaping public perception, the distinction between genuine science and pseudoscience, and the historical analysis of phenomena often associated with the paranormal. The editorial stance is firmly rooted in rationalism and scientific inquiry, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and seek verifiable evidence. The magazine also engages with ethical considerations regarding advertising and the promotion of skeptical viewpoints.