Skeptic - 1999 - Vol 12 No 3-4

Magazine Overview

This issue of "The Skeptic" (Volume 12, Numbers 3 & 4, published in 1999) is a UK-based magazine dedicated to skeptical inquiry and critical thinking. The cover prominently features "MARS: the mystery planet?" with an image of faces on the Martian surface, alongside the headline "Happy New Millennium." Other featured articles include investigations into radio psychics and 'cold reading,' the search for the Loch Ness Monster, near-death experiences, the astronomy of the Hare Krishna movement, and scientists who deviate from mainstream thought.

Skeptic in Chains

Wendy M Grossman's editorial, "Skeptic in Chains," reflects on the cyclical nature of skepticism and the media's tendency to cover stories that may not be scientifically robust. She discusses a BBC researcher's difficulty in finding skeptical comments on the Shroud of Turin, attributing it to journalistic rules requiring external opinions. Grossman also touches upon the speculative nature of Internet stock markets and the repetitive nature of debunking common pseudoscientific claims like astrology. The recent solar eclipse serves as a point of reflection, highlighting how scientific predictability can contrast with the nebulous claims of astrology and ESP.

Paranormal Picture Gallery

Hilary Evans presents "Paranormal Picture Gallery," focusing on the superstition surrounding the number 13. She notes that the belief in 13 being unlucky predates Jesus's Last Supper, with ancient Romans also considering it a symbol of misfortune. The article is sourced from Charles Gibson's "Allan's Family Journal" (Sweden, 1925).

Contents

The table of contents lists a variety of articles, including "Skeptic in Chains" by Wendy M Grossman, "Hits and Misses" and "TEOTWAWKI" also by Grossman, "Behind the Red Planet" by Paul Chambers, "Skeptical Stats (part 1 & 2)," "Immortality Revoked" by Barry F Siedman, "In Search of Nessie" by Lucy Sherriff, "Radio Ga-Ga" by Tony Youens, "It's Astronomy, Jim, But Not As We Know It" by Marc LaChapelle, "The Skeptic's Dictionary" by Robert Todd Carroll, "Scientists and the Paranormal" by Harry Edwards, "Fantastic Skepticism" by David J Eccott, "What Really Happened?" by Peter Ward, "Sprite" and "Rhyme and Reason" by Steve Donnelly, and "Photographer's Corner" by Julian Baggini. The issue also includes reviews and letters.

Hits and Misses

This section, compiled by Wendy Grossman with contributions from Simon Brophy, Rachel Carthy, and David Morton, covers several brief items:

• Superbirds: Scottish researcher James Easton proposes that a 1947 UFO sighting by Kenneth Arnold, which led to the term 'flying saucer,' might have been American White Pelicans. These birds can weigh up to 30 pounds and have a wingspan of ten feet, flying at speeds of up to 52 mph.
• Moonstones: Alonzo Fyfe of Applied Space Resources discusses the pricing of moon rocks, noting that while his company charges $200 for a pea-sized rock, fragments of lunar meteorites can fetch much higher prices, with one 0.2g fragment selling for $442,000. He also clarifies that material brought back by Apollo missions is not available to the public.
• It's a miracle, but don't look! This piece critiques the government's advice to stay indoors and watch the solar eclipse on TV, rather than providing safe viewing methods. The author suggests this is an example of how people, including politicians, may not fully grasp the implications of their statements.

Nostradamus misses again

This article reports on a claim that Nostradamus was a plagiarist, with his original text allegedly written by Yves de Lessines between 1322 and 1329. The author notes parallels with other attributions of famous works and individuals.

Everybody gets butterflies

Simon Brophy discusses the controversy surrounding genetically modified (GM) crops, criticizing the British press's use of the term 'Frankenfoods.' He argues that the debate should focus on economics and politics rather than food safety. The article highlights a study suggesting GM corn pollen might harm Monarch butterflies, but notes that the Monarch butterfly is not native to the UK. It also mentions the economic benefits of GM corn, such as reduced pesticide use, saving an estimated $1 billion per season in the USA.

Electrical faults

This section addresses concerns about scientific fraud and incompetence. It mentions a US federal probe into a scientist at Lawrence Berkeley Lab who allegedly faked evidence linking electromagnetic radiation to cancer. The article notes that numerous studies by the National Institutes of Health have concluded that electric power is safe, and a recent study found no link between electromagnetic fields and childhood leukemia. The piece emphasizes that science is a self-correcting process.

Bang! You're dead!

This article discusses a machine at Brookhaven National Laboratories designed to replicate the Big Bang. The accelerator aims to strip atoms of gold of their electrons and accelerate them to near light speed. Collisions between these particles are predicted to generate fireballs of dense matter, potentially creating solitary strange quarks or a tiny black hole that could consume the planet. The scientists involved deem these possibilities unlikely but are investigating further.

Breathe to live

Simon Brophy recounts his experience with a "breatharian" entrepreneur in France, who claims to extract nutrition from the atmosphere. He notes the skepticism of the article in "Woman" magazine, but finds the warning about the fatal consequences of actually living as a breatharian to be the most valuable part of the piece.

Russian roulette

Mike Kenward reports that sales of science magazines are down in Hungary and Russia. According to Gyula Bencze, this is due to increased costs after subsidies ended and a renewed interest in alternative therapies, astrology, and miracle cures, which were suppressed under Communism. Bencze also notes that science journalism was valued during the Communist era for its perceived truthfulness, contrasting with the current situation.

The section also mentions a report of a tomato found in Bradford displaying the name of God in Arabic, and a humorous call for readers to find produce with the words "Science sucks."

Psychic junk

This article details the author's experience testing an advertisement for a talisman from "Maria Duval." After filling out a form and providing a fictitious name, the author received several solicitations for psychic services and products, including a "lucky pentacle" and a "horoscope-prediction." The author concludes that the experience yielded mostly junk mail and a disappointing talisman.

Behind the Red Planet

Paul Chambers examines the "face on Mars" and the historical "canals on Mars" controversies. He explains that the "face on Mars" is a landform on the Cydonia Plain, photographed by the Viking mission, which some interpreted as evidence of alien intelligence. Chambers draws parallels between this and the earlier "canals on Mars" debate, initiated by astronomers like Giovanni Schiaparelli and Percival Lowell. He argues that both controversies stemmed from the subjective interpretation of distant, low-resolution images and the human tendency to find patterns. The article notes that modern computer enhancements of the "face on Mars" have made it appear more artificial, and that statistical analyses, like Carlotto's fractal analysis, are tools for research, not definitive proof.

The Canals on Mars

This article provides a detailed history of the "canals on Mars" controversy. It explains that the term "canali" (waterways) was first used by Angelo Secchi in 1858 and later mapped by Giovanni Schiaparelli. Percival Lowell popularized the idea of artificial canals, linking them to a dying Martian civilization. The article notes that the controversy was largely resolved by 1900, with experiments by Edward Maunder and John Evans demonstrating how optical illusions could create the appearance of canals. The Mariner IV mission in 1965 provided definitive photographic evidence that dispelled the canal theory.

Bad Sci-Fi

This piece discusses Monsanto's decision not to market its "terminator gene" plants in response to public pressure. The article explains that these GM crops were engineered to be sterile, which would disrupt farming practices and raise costs for farmers. The author hopes Monsanto will not pursue similar technologies in the future.

Space writing

This article debunks an urban legend about NASA spending a fortune developing a space pen, when the Russians simply used pencils. It clarifies that the space pen was developed by the Fisher pen company and that NASA purchased them as a standard refill cartridge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "The Skeptic" consistently promotes critical thinking and scientific evidence over pseudoscience, superstition, and sensationalism. Recurring themes include the debunking of UFO claims, paranormal phenomena, and pseudoscientific theories like astrology and psychic readings. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, the self-correcting nature of science, and the potential for human perception and media influence to create or perpetuate myths. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and a healthy skepticism towards extraordinary claims.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 12, Numbers 3 & 4
Date: Unknown

This issue of The Skeptic critically examines phenomena often associated with the paranormal, presenting skeptical viewpoints and scientific explanations. It covers topics ranging from alleged extraterrestrial evidence on Mars to the nature of Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) and the enduring mystery of the Loch Ness Monster.

The Face on Mars

The article "The Face on Mars" discusses the controversy surrounding a feature on the Martian surface photographed by the Viking orbiter in 1976. Initially presented as a potential artifact, it was later explained by NASA as a natural hill. The piece critiques the use of mathematics by proponents like Richard C. Hoagland, who claimed the feature and surrounding formations were artificial, built by ancient aliens 500,000 years ago. The author argues that applying geometry to random features on a map can easily create geometric shapes and that Lowell's mathematical calculations regarding Mars' habitability have been proven wrong. The article contrasts the scientific consensus with the persistence of theories involving alien civilizations and government conspiracies.

Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)

"Immortality Revoked" by Barry F. Seidman reports on the progress in understanding Near-Death Experiences. It begins by acknowledging the human desire for immortality and the comfort derived from religious beliefs about an afterlife. The article introduces NDEs as phenomena reported by people close to death, often involving experiences like floating above the body, seeing a tunnel of light, and encountering deceased relatives. While believers interpret these as proof of the soul's existence, the Skeptic presents scientific perspectives. Psychologists and neuroscientists like Ian Stevenson, Dean Radin, and Dr. Joanne D.S. McMahon suggest that NDEs are complex phenomena with physiological, psychological, and cultural origins that science struggles to fully explain. They propose that NDEs are a form of consciousness that cannot be easily replicated in a laboratory. Susan Blackmore, a Ph.D. in Parapsychology, argues that NDEs can be studied scientifically and that experiences like drug-induced hallucinations share similarities. She posits that the brain subconsciously creates 'mental models' to explain reality, and during an NDE, it constructs a 'real' experience from memory. Barry Beyerstein, a psychologist, argues that consciousness cannot exist independently of a functioning brain, suggesting that NDEs are naturalistic events caused by brain dysfunction, such as irregular neurotransmitter activity and anoxia (lack of oxygen), which can lead to hallucinations and altered perceptions. The article concludes that while NDEs offer comfort to believers, scientific inquiry aims to understand them through brain function and memory processes.

In Search of Nessie

Lucy Sherriff's article, "In Search of Nessie," recounts her visit to Loch Ness in Scotland in search of its famous inhabitant. She notes that while many Scottish lochs have monster legends, Loch Ness's has persisted due to its perceived reality. The article describes the loch's geography, situated on the Great Glen fault, its considerable depth (averaging 600 feet), and its large volume of water. It touches upon theories suggesting Nessie could be a surviving Plesiosaur from the Cretaceous period. Sherriff describes her own experience, which involved visiting tourist sites, purchasing Nessie merchandise, and seeing a life-sized mock-up of the creature. Despite the lack of a personal sighting, she highlights the economic importance of the Nessie legend to the local tourism industry, with the Official Nessie Exhibition being a major attraction. The article also mentions the possibility of Nessie hiding in underwater caves and the availability of online resources and webcams for those interested in the phenomenon.

Radio Ga-Ga: The Tactics of Radio Psychics

Tony Youens' "Radio Ga-Ga" investigates the methods used by radio psychics, particularly focusing on 'cold reading.' Youens recounts his experience attempting to test a psychic named Kevin Wade on a radio phone-in show. He explains that cold reading involves making statements that sound specific but are general enough to apply to many people, often phrased as questions. Psychics use cues from the caller, language patterns, and psychological principles to create the illusion of knowing personal details. Youens describes Wade's peculiar speech pattern, using 'please' frequently and phrasing statements as questions, which he suggests is a tactic to avoid definitive incorrect answers. The article highlights how the popularity of such shows leads to massive listener response, making it difficult for skeptics to directly challenge the psychics' claims.

Skeptical Stats (part 1)

This section presents a collection of statistics related to various topics, often highlighting unusual or surprising figures. Examples include the amount of money attracted by a hoax website, the number of people who sent messages to extraterrestrials, the percentage of papers with statistical errors in a psychiatry journal, the number of human souls auctioned on eBay, the probability of identical irises, electricity supply from nuclear power, plant species under threat, firearms in the US, gun control laws, and the number of virgins with insurance against immaculate conception. It also includes statistics on remote viewing courses, survival claims, starvation figures, undiscovered marine creatures, and the number of members in the Astrological Society of Great Britain. The section concludes with figures related to Scientology's e-meter and yogic flyers.

Y2K Gifts

A lighthearted section offering humorous suggestions for Year 2000 presents, submitted to the Journal of Improbable Research. The list includes items like "2000 flushes toilet bowl cleaner," "2000 Calorie mascara," "Lever 2000 Soap," and "Class 2000, an escort service in New York City."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue of The Skeptic is the critical examination of paranormal claims through a scientific lens. The magazine consistently questions phenomena that lack empirical evidence, offering rational explanations and highlighting the logical fallacies or psychological factors that may contribute to belief. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk pseudoscientific theories and promote critical thinking. The articles encourage readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on evidence-based reasoning rather than faith or anecdotal accounts. The magazine also implicitly advocates for the scientific method as the most reliable tool for understanding the world.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 12 Numbers 3 & 4
Date: 1995 (implied by content and page numbering)
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: Australia

This issue of The Skeptic delves into various topics related to pseudoscience, paranormal claims, and the critical examination of beliefs that deviate from established scientific understanding. The magazine features articles that scrutinize psychic phenomena, alternative astronomical models, archaeological interpretations, and the unconventional beliefs of scientists.

Psychic Mediums and Cold Reading

The issue begins with an examination of psychic mediums, particularly focusing on the technique of 'cold reading'. Through a series of questions posed to a psychic named Kevin, the author illustrates how cold reading works. Kevin's responses are analyzed, showing how he uses vague statements and fishing questions to gain information from the caller, rather than demonstrating genuine psychic ability. Examples like asking for the name 'Albert' and then deflecting the direct answer highlight the evasive tactics employed. The author contrasts this with the expectation of straight answers to straight questions, using the quiz show 'Mastermind' as an analogy for direct questioning.

Further examples demonstrate how mediums might shift the burden of proof onto the caller, asking them to check information with family members, or using ambiguous phrasing to allow for reinterpretation. The article notes that modern talk radio psychics have adopted a more streamlined approach, often asking about future events which are inherently difficult to verify.

The Skeptic's Dictionary: Bach Flower Remedies

This section provides a brief overview of Bach flower therapy, developed by Edward Bach in the 1930s. It describes the system's basis in the supposed healing properties of 38 wildflowers, which Bach claimed to discover intuitively. The therapy aims to balance emotional states by harmonizing the human soul with the flower's energy. The author notes that the claims are largely metaphysical and difficult to test empirically, mentioning the FDA's conclusion that 'orgone energy' devices, a related concept from Wilhelm Reich, were worthless.

It's Astronomy, Jim, But Not As We Know It

Authored by Marc LaChapelle, this article critically examines the astronomical beliefs of the Hare Krishna organization (ISKCON). The article contrasts the conventional scientific understanding of celestial bodies, such as the Sun and Moon, with the interpretations derived from ancient Vedic texts. ISKCON followers believe that modern science is fundamentally flawed in its understanding of the solar system. Specifically, the Vedic texts, such as the Srimad Bhagavatam, propose significantly different distances and sizes for the Sun and Moon compared to scientific measurements. For instance, the Moon is said to be 1,600,000 miles away, and the Sun 800,000 miles away, with the Moon having a larger 'extend' (possibly diameter or circumference) than the Sun. The article also touches upon the ISKCON explanation for solar eclipses, which involves a planet named Rahu, and their skepticism regarding the Moon landings, suggesting they may have been staged or that astronauts visited Rahu instead.

The author highlights that ISKCON's astronomy is based on ancient texts and does not acknowledge scientific advancements, viewing 'Western science' as erroneous. While the people spoken to were friendly, they deferred detailed questions to more learned members of the Society. The article concludes by questioning why ancient descriptions of the external world should not yield to scientific discoveries.

Fantastic Skepticism: A Response to Claims of Fantastic Archaeology

David J Eccott responds to an article by Howard Wellman concerning 'Fantastic Archaeology'. While agreeing with Wellman's refutation of claims about Atlantis, Bronze Age Celts in America, and extraterrestrial pyramid builders, Eccott expresses concern about Wellman's apparent inability to differentiate between the fantasies of Erich von Däniken and the evidence presented by Dr. Robert Schoch regarding the age of the Sphinx. Eccott also points out what he considers misleading statements and inaccuracies in Wellman's text.

Eccott specifically addresses Wellman's interpretation of Maya iconography, particularly the tomb lid of Pacal at Palenque. He corrects Wellman's description of Pacal 'climbing the tree of life', stating that the iconography depicts Pacal falling, not climbing, and that the tree is the 'World Tree' (Wakah Chan), not the 'tree of life'. This detailed correction serves to highlight what Eccott views as a fundamental flaw in Wellman's presentation, despite his general emphasis on correct archaeological methodology.

Furthermore, Eccott challenges Wellman's dating of Maya pyramids, stating that Wellman's assertion of construction around A.D. 800 is misleading. He explains that A.D. 800 marked the end of the Terminal Classic period, while the major construction of Maya cities and pyramids occurred during the Classic period (A.D. 250-800) and even earlier in the Late Preclassic period (B.C. 300-A.D. 250). He cites Professor Norman Hammond's research on the pyramids at Tikal, indicating construction at least 400 years earlier than previously assumed. Eccott also corrects Wellman's assertion that Egyptian pyramids were primarily tombs while Maya pyramids were primarily temple platforms, noting that some Maya pyramids, like the one at Palenque, were designed to encase tombs from the outset.

Eccott also takes issue with Wellman's dismissal of the possibility of pre-Columbian trans-oceanic contact. He argues that while analogy is a weak form of argument, it is unreasonable to dismiss the possibility based on inaccurate or incomplete factual contexts. He agrees that pyramids appearing in both Egypt and Mesoamerica do not alone constitute evidence of contact, but suggests that other aspects warrant discussion, referencing Michael D. Coe's statement about possible transmission of cultural traits from Asia across the Pacific, particularly features of the Mesoamerican calendrical system that align with the Han-dynasty Chinese eclipse calendar.

Scientists and the Paranormal

This section, authored by Harry Edwards, profiles several respected scientists who, later in their careers, developed beliefs in paranormal or pseudoscientific fields. The article begins by referencing a letter from John Allen questioning how to regard scientists who promote irrational ideas. The author suggests that qualifications are irrelevant if the argument itself lacks validity, attributing such beliefs to factors like money, fame, or wishful thinking, a phenomenon Irving Langmuir termed 'pathological science'.

Several individuals are highlighted:

• Dr. William McBride: An obstetrician and gynaecologist who initially drew attention to the link between thalidomide and limb deformities. Later, he claimed the drug Debendox caused deformities in rabbits, but his evidence was found to be doctored, leading to accusations of scientific fraud.
• Albert Abrams: A highly qualified medical doctor who theorized that diseases had characteristic vibratory rates and developed apparatus for diagnosis and treatment. His devices were found to be useless, and he was later described as a 'charlatan'.
• William Bates: An ophthalmologist who incorrectly claimed that refractive errors were due to 'strain of the mind' and could be treated with eye exercises without glasses. His method is considered to have no validity by consensus.
• Cyril Burt: A British psychologist whose work on heredity was later found to involve appropriated research and invented sources.
• Linus Pauling: A Nobel laureate chemist who advocated high doses of vitamin C for colds and cancer. Double-blind studies have shown no significant benefit for cold prevention, and no difference in cancer patient outcomes.
• Wilhelm Reich: A psychiatrist who claimed to discover 'orgone energy' and invented devices like the Orgone Energy Accumulator. Research by the FDA concluded that orgone energy does not exist and his devices were worthless.
• J.B. Rhine: A parapsychologist whose extensive experiments with ESP cards were claimed to demonstrate psychic phenomena. However, critics note that his findings have not been independently confirmed, and accusations of loose laboratory controls and recording errors have been made.
• Rudolph Steiner: A philosopher and scientist who believed in Atlantis and the Akashic records, and developed 'Bio-Dynamic farming' and 'Iscador' for cancer treatment, the latter found to be ineffective.
• Samuel Soal: A mathematician who replicated Rhine's ESP experiments with astonishing accuracy. However, it was later discovered that Soal had cheated by altering score sheets.

The article concludes by noting that many practitioners now offer alternative and pseudoscientific services, questioning why they abandon scientific methods for unproven remedies, suggesting that pecuniary interest and the placebo effect may play roles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic are the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, the debunking of paranormal phenomena, and the questioning of beliefs that lack empirical evidence. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, emphasizing the importance of scientific methodology, peer review, and verifiable evidence. The editorial stance is clearly against the acceptance of unsubstantiated claims, whether they originate from psychic mediums, alternative scientific theories, or scientists who deviate into pseudoscience. The publication aims to educate its readers by dissecting these claims and providing rational, evidence-based counterarguments, often highlighting instances of fraud, error, or wishful thinking within these fields.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 12 Numbers 3 & 4
Date: December 1999
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Article 1: Trans-Atlantic Contact and Pseudo Archaeology

This section, likely an excerpt or continuation from a previous article, discusses theories of pre-Columbian trans-oceanic contact. It highlights the work of archaeologist Paul Tolstoy, who demonstrated technological similarities in bark paper production between the New World tropics (Maya) and Southeast Asia (Celebes and Moluccas), suggesting an Asian origin. The author emphasizes that not all theories of trans-oceanic contact are baseless and should not be dismissed as 'pseudo archaeology' alongside more fanciful claims.

A key point of comparison is made between the Chinese and Maya eclipse calendars, noting they share not only principles but also errors. The Han dynasty calendar predicted 23 lunar eclipses in 135 lunar months, while the Maya calculated 69 eclipses in 405 lunations. The Maya figure is precisely triple the Chinese, maintaining the same proportion. The author also notes that the Chinese calculation of 23 lunar eclipses in 135 lunar months is an overestimation.

Further evidence for trans-oceanic contact is drawn from studies by Stephen Jett, Professor of Geography at the University of California, Davis. Jett found similarities between the blowgun's development and use in South and Central America and Southeast Asia, suggesting Southeast Asia as a potential link for early voyaging.

The author also references Howard Wellman's work and Stephen Williams's book 'Fantastic Archaeology,' sharing Williams's concern about unsubstantiated theories presented as fact. The article mentions books like 'The Mayan Prophecies' by Adrian Gilbert and 'The Supergods' by Maurice Cotterell being sold alongside scholarly works. A review by David H. Kelley of Williams's 'Fantastic Archaeology' is cited, noting Kelley's critique of Williams's lack of knowledge about the Hopewell people.

Article 2: The Sphinx and Skepticism

This section critiques Howard Wellman's claims regarding the age of the Sphinx. Dr. Schoch is cited as suggesting the Sphinx's erosion patterns indicate weathering from rainfall, pointing to a possible construction date between 5000 and 7000 B.C. John Anthony West is credited with proposing the 10,000 B.C. date. The author disputes Wellman's assertion that Dr. Schoch ignored documentary, architectural, and archaeological contexts. The article points out the lack of direct evidence linking Pharaoh Chephren to the Sphinx's construction, noting that the stela of Tuthmosis IV, while mentioning Khaf (possibly the first syllable of Chephren's name), does not state Chephren built it. The architectural evidence is also deemed non-existent, with no other Egyptian structures resembling the Sphinx. The author concludes that Dr. Schoch's data is the only hard evidence for any date, and while not universally accepted, it is not invalidated.

The article also touches upon the discovery of large stone slabs in Egypt's Sahara Desert at Nabta, dated to around 6,500 years ago, confirmed by J. Malville. These slabs are considered the oldest known astronomical alignment of megaliths and may have influenced the development of pyramid construction.

Article 3: TEOTWAWKI - The End of the World as We Know It

This article by Wendy M Grossman discusses the widespread fears surrounding the Year 2000 bug (Y2K) and the potential for societal collapse. It outlines a predicted scenario for Y2K failures, starting in early 1999 with financial projections, escalating to a global crash by April 1999, and leading to panic, shortages of food and fuel, bank runs, and widespread business computer failures by September. The scenario predicts major cities burning by 9/9/99, followed by power outages and brownouts, culminating in the failure of billions of embedded chips on New Year's Eve 2000, leading to a five to ten year period of complete anarchy. The author notes the 'apocalyptic relish' with which some predicted disaster, quoting Gary North on the scale of the impending catastrophe and the doom of most jobs.

The article also touches on financial collapse and alternative currencies, mentioning gold, real estate, silver, and platinum. A poster expresses frustration that Y2K might prevent them from living a full life. Damien Thompson, author of 'The End of Time: Faith and Fear in the Shadow of the Millennium,' explains the detailed attention to Y2K as providing a mechanism for everything breaking down.

Wendy M Grossman is identified as the editor of The Skeptic, and the article is noted as having originally appeared in the Daily Telegraph.

Article 4: Skeptical Stats (part 2)

This section presents a list of 25 statistical facts, covering a range of topics from the cost of a Vedic Observatory and TV shows featuring aliens to mobile phone radiation, lottery statistics, gun laws, the Mars Orbiter failure, Anthony Robbins's earnings, and the average worker's time spent waiting for technical support. It also includes statistics on AIDS, dinosaur species, Nostradamus's predictions, and the number of independent health food retailers.

• Notable statistics include:
• The cost of a 40" x 40" tabletop Vedic Observatory and its accompanying book.
• The number of American prime-time TV shows featuring aliens (2).
• The risk ratio between the 'safest' and 'riskiest' mobile phones (20:1) and the lack of evidence for health risks.
• Over 90% of the UK population bought National Lottery tickets between 1994-1998.
• A 1 in 270 year chance of matching six numbers with a £1,000 weekly lottery spend.
• The Mars Orbiter loss due to metric vs. imperial measurement confusion ($1.25 million).
• Anthony Robbins earning over $80 million annually from books, tapes, and seminars, with his share in GHS, Inc. valued at $276 million.
• An average worker spends one year of their working life waiting for technical support.
• 2.3 million deaths worldwide due to AIDS in 1998.
• The Jobariatiguidensis dinosaur's size: 60 feet long, 30 feet high.
• Nostradamus's prediction of one comet destroying the Earth in 1999.
• Erich von Däniken's plans for 'Mystery theme parks' in the Swiss Alps.
• Only 1 out of 30 shops gave correct advice for serious health conditions, with others selling herbal treatments.

Sources for these statistics are provided, including website URLs and publications.

Article 5: What Really Happened? Peter Ward Investigates Claims of Satanic Abuse

This article by Peter Ward critically examines the claims of Satanic ritual abuse, focusing on the Nottingham case from 1994. It begins by referencing Professor Jean La Fontaine's 1994 Department of Health report, 'The Extent and Nature of Organised and Ritual Abuse,' which found evidence of a ritual element in only three out of 84 alleged cases, and in those, the ritual was secondary to the sex offense, not for magical or religious purposes. The report concluded that no case verified child sacrifice or sexual abuse to further any belief system designated as 'Satanic.'

Despite La Fontaine's findings, some, like feminist writer Beatrix Campbell, criticized the report. The Nottingham case, in particular, remained controversial. A 'Joint Enquiry Team (JET) Report' published on the internet in 1997 was highly critical of social services' handling of the case, raising the question of whether Satanic or ritual abuse occurred.

The article acknowledges that severe child sex offenses did occur in Nottingham, with seven men and two women jailed in 1989 for horrific crimes. However, it questions whether these acts were ritualized or part of a 'Satanic' objective.

Conflicting Claims:

The author states that no hard evidence confirming testimonies of Satanic ritual abuse has been found. Allegations presented on television by Ms. Campbell are dismissed as potentially staged or inconclusive. The lack of named offenders is noted as convenient for Ms. Campbell but limits the weight of the evidence.

Believe the Children:

This section scrutinizes the reliability of children's testimony, citing experiments that show how adult questioning can coerce responses. It highlights the tendency for children to avoid contradicting elders and the impact of body language and negative feedback. The article references a case where suggestive questions led to false accusations.

A classic miscarriage of justice involving the murder of Maxwell Confait is used as an example of how confessions, influenced by interviewer incentives, can lead to wrongful convictions.

The article questions whether the Nottingham children's testimony was contaminated by expectations raised by 'experts' like Pamela Klein (an American psychologist criticized for her questioning techniques) and Maureen Davies (associated with a church organization focused on 'cults and the occult').

Satanic Indicators:

Ray Wyre, a consultant on child sex offenses, is discussed. The JET Report states he provided a list of 'Satanic indicators' to foster parents, potentially brainwashing victims. However, Wyre later denied giving written lists, claiming he provided information relevant to organized abuse and police reservations. The article highlights a contradiction between Wyre's statements to Tim Tate and his later claims.

The 'Satanic indicators' are described as behavior patterns observed in children supposedly victims of Satanic ritual abuse. The article argues that these indicators are not unique to abuse victims and can be displayed by healthy children. The lack of weighting for these indicators is criticized, making it difficult to assess their significance.

Contamination and Corroboration:

The article suggests that children's statements were contaminated after 'experts' and 'indicators' were consulted. It cites the JET Report's analysis of a child named Craig, whose statements about 'witches' and 'killing sheep' were interpreted as Satanic but could be explained by fantasy, popular imagery, or misinterpretations of everyday events (like blood samples or the movie 'Jaws').

The JET Report's conclusion that the ritual element lacked corroboration is supported by the police and Professor La Fontaine. Critics like Tim Tate and Beatrix Campbell are mentioned, with Campbell describing the JET Report as 'discredited.' However, the Council adopted a report that acknowledged the possibility of ritualistic elements but found no definite evidence.

The article argues that the crime scenes (run-down council houses) were not conducive to Satanic ritual abuse, and the lack of any physical evidence (blood, remains) makes the claims highly improbable. The corroboration by three adult 'witnesses' is also doubted, with one witness having retracted her statement and another's claims about tunnels and swimming pools being demonstrably false.

Conclusion:

The article concludes that, despite varying analyses, the universal view is that no evidence for Satanic ritual abuse exists. The evidence presented is deemed insufficient to stand up to scrutiny, and Mrs. Justice Booth's designation of the abuse as 'Satanic' during a wardship hearing is seen as a decision on the children's welfare, not a finding of fact regarding Satanic ritual abuse. The author suggests that contamination and evidence-tampering by foster parents and Team 4, influenced by Christian and American 'experts,' led to the presumption of Satanic ritual abuse where none took place.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach, questioning sensational claims and demanding rigorous proof. The issue demonstrates this by dissecting theories of ancient trans-oceanic contact, debunking the fear-mongering surrounding Y2K, and thoroughly investigating the controversial Nottingham child abuse case. The magazine's stance is one of healthy skepticism, distinguishing it from outright denial or credulity, and emphasizing the importance of factual accuracy and logical reasoning in evaluating extraordinary claims. The recurring theme is the exposure of unsubstantiated beliefs and the promotion of critical thinking, particularly in areas prone to sensationalism and pseudoscience.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 12 Numbers 3 & 4
Date: Circa 2000 (implied by millennium focus)
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK

This issue of The Skeptic delves into various topics related to skepticism, the paranormal, and the approaching third millennium. It features a mix of opinion pieces, reviews of books and media, and a satirical cartoon on the cover.

Skepticism for the Third Millennium

Steve Donnelly's column, "Skepticism for the third millennium," looks ahead to the new century. He predicts that UFO sightings will continue due to human psychology and the increasing number of satellites. However, he believes that genuine contact with extraterrestrials is more likely to occur through detecting signals (SETI) than physical encounters. Donnelly also discusses "Free Energy," noting the shift in terminology from "perpetual motion" and expressing skepticism about imminent breakthroughs, attributing the pursuit to amateur inventors and a misunderstanding of quantum mechanics. He also touches on ESP, suggesting that future advancements in communication will be driven by silicon microchip technology rather than biological extensions of the brain, referencing Professor Kevin Warwick's work on implanting chips to record and replay nervous impulses. For divination, Donnelly humorously suggests a modernized system based on randomly selecting lines from Beatles or Van Morrison lyrics.

Philosopher's Corner: How Philosophy Affects Beliefs

Julian Baggini's "Philosopher's Corner" presents the results of a poll conducted by The Philosophers' Magazine on how studying philosophy impacts visitors' beliefs. The findings indicate that philosophy does not alter monotheistic religious beliefs but significantly reduces belief in Karma. It also appears to decrease credulity regarding alien visitations and the rejection of Darwinian evolution. However, a notable gender difference emerged: women were less likely than men to adopt a skeptical stance on these issues, though this gap narrows with higher education levels. Baggini concludes by noting that the magazine's readership skews male, aligning with the survey's implication that skepticism may appeal more to men.

Reviews

IRRATIONAL PHILOSOPHY

Anything Goes: Origins of the Cult of Scientific Irrationalism by David Stove (Reviewed by Scott Campbell)

This reissue of a classic work by the late Australian philosopher David Stove critiques the dominant views in twentieth-century philosophy of science, particularly those of Sir Karl Popper, Thomas Kuhn, Imre Lakatos, and Paul Feyerabend. Stove argues that their ideas, which suggest scientific knowledge is impossible to obtain, are fundamentally flawed and lead to a clearly ridiculous position. The review highlights Stove's devastating analysis and his polemical ability and wit, recommending the book for anyone interested in the philosophy of science.

BIBLE READING

Bible Prophecy: Failure or Fulfillment? by Tim Callahan (Reviewed by Willem Betz)

This book challenges claims that biblical prophecies accurately predicted historical events. Callahan examines the Bible's origins, history, and interpretations, pointing out inconsistencies and demonstrating that many prophecies were written after the fact, were self-fulfilling, or were based on vague interpretations. The review notes that the book provides a systematic and chronological analysis, making it a valuable resource for understanding biblical prophecies, though it may be a shock to fundamentalists.

MUMBO JUMBO

Magic and Mystery in Ancient Egypt by Christian Jacq (Reviewed by John Bosley)

John Bosley reviews this book, expressing disappointment and advising readers not to waste their time or money. While acknowledging the author's premise that science alone is insufficient, Bosley finds the content to be "mumbo jumbo," comparing it to snake charming and medicine practices. He notes that the book discusses magic and religion as inseparable and mentions predestination and escaping it through magic. The review criticizes the book's lack of rationality and its focus on esoteric practices.

MAKE A MEDIEVAL WISH

Conjuring Spirits: Texts and Traditions of Medieval Ritual Magic by Claire Fanger (Editor) (Reviewed by John Bosley)

This scholarly book, aimed at an academic audience, is a study of medieval texts detailing magical rituals. John Bosley notes that while the book is difficult to read, it contains treasures, such as an examination of the Liber Visionum, a medieval work by a monk named John of Morigny, which describes rituals for summoning visions and petitioning for desires. Bosley draws parallels between these medieval practices and modern New Age approaches to communication with celestial beings, noting that while the methods are similar, the historical context treated such practices more seriously.

SERIOUSLY WEIRD

Fortean Studies Volume 5 edited by Steve Moore (Reviewed by Marjorie Mackintosh)

This volume contains articles that are too long for Fortean Times, with several chapters of interest to skeptics. One chapter examines the evidence behind out-of-place ships, finding it unconvincing. Another investigates ufology from a sociological and political perspective. The book is well-researched, with extensive footnotes. A second part includes an index to the 1997 Fortean Times. The reviewer notes that while some chapters examine folklore rather than evidence, the series is a valuable resource for research into weird phenomena.

TEACHING AS FACT

The Jesus Mysteries: Was the original Jesus a Pagan God? by Timothy Freke and Peter Gandy (Reviewed by Anthony Campbell)

This book proposes that Christianity originated from a Gnostic sect that created a Jewish version of a pagan Mystery cult, with a fictional Jesus as a dying and resurrecting godman. The reviewer finds the thesis improbable, noting that the direct evidence relies on the Jesus story itself, leading to circularity. Despite this, the book is noted for containing surprising information and being well-referenced.

A MATTER OF INTERPRETATION

Nostradamus: the Next 50 Years by Peter Lemesurier (Reviewed by Ray Ward)

Ray Ward reviews this book, questioning why people still focus on Nostradamus's vague predictions. Lemesurier retranslates and reinterprets predictions, creating a sensational narrative. Ward criticizes the book for its circular reasoning and reliance on dubious preconceptions, noting that Lemesurier uncritically refers to works by others like Jeanne Dixon. He points out historical inaccuracies in interpretations and suggests Nostradamus is remembered for nonsense rather than his correct contemporary French writings.

CUT AND PASTE

Arrival of the Gods: Revealing the Alien Landing Sites of Nazca by Erich von Däniken (Reviewed by Dene Bebbington)

Dene Bebbington recommends the book for its 150 photographs of the Nazca markings but advises against the text. The text is described as a summary of existing theories, including von Däniken's claims of being misunderstood. His explanation that extraterrestrials visited Peru to prospect for minerals and left markings as "approach indicators" is deemed neither original nor credible. The review suggests the book is a "pot-boiler and a scissors-and-paste work."

GRAIL TRACK

The Discovery of the Grail by Andrew Sinclair (Reviewed by Mike Hutton)

Mike Hutton reviews this book as an enjoyable history of humanity's fascination with the Holy Grail. While acknowledging that specialists might quibble over interpretations, the book is aimed at newcomers and covers a wide range of Grail-related topics. Sinclair dismisses many modern Grail authors as "fantasists" but also criticizes the "sceptical age" for implying that medieval faith was baseless. The reviewer notes Sinclair's preference for a personal, spiritual journey analysis of the Grail quest.

SPIRIT LEVEL

Shamanism: Traditional and Contemporary Approaches to the Mastery of Spirits and Healing by Merete Demant Jakobsen (Reviewed by Mike Walsh)

Mike Walsh reviews this anthropological textbook, which compares New Age neo-shamanism with traditional shamanism, particularly from Greenland. The reviewer finds the parallels between Greenlandic shamanic practices and those of early Western mediums striking, noting similarities in spirit journeys, séances, and healing practices. However, Walsh criticizes the author's neutrality and uncritical treatment of the subject, suggesting that skeptics can gain insight into New Age training courses and the "agelessness of the art of deception."

SCIENTIFIC SELECTION BOX

Galileo's Commandment: An Anthology of Great Science Writing edited by Edmund Blair Bolles (Reviewed by Louise Johnson)

Louise Johnson reviews this anthology of science writing, describing it as unusual and inspired. The collection includes a broad range of pieces, from ancient poetry to essays on scientific figures like Newton, Darwin, and Galileo. The reviewer highlights the inclusion of diverse scientific perspectives, including Chomsky on Skinner, Kepler on the moon, and Watson on DNA, emphasizing that the book showcases not only the character of science but also the personalities of the scientists.

E.T. REALLY IS OUT THERE

Probability 1: Why There Must be Intelligent Life in the Universe by Amir Aczel (Reviewed by Dene Bebbington)

Dene Bebbington reviews this book, which argues for the high probability of intelligent extraterrestrial life. The book covers the history of the question, the Fermi paradox, and the Drake equation. It explores subjects like DNA, the Panspermia hypothesis, planetary evolution, and the evolution of intelligence. Bebbington finds the book highly readable and informative, recommending it for anyone interested in the question of whether humanity is alone in the universe.

IT'S A MYSTERY

Music – The New Age Elixir by Lisa Summer with Joseph Summer (Reviewed by Dr Melvyn Willin)

Dr Melvyn Willin reviews this book, which offers a critique of New Age music healing claims. The reviewer was pleasantly surprised, finding that the book admirably debunks these claims with substantial knowledge of music history and theory. Despite minor irritations with the text, Willin thoroughly recommends the book to readers with a background in music theory or an interest in pseudo-music science, warning that it may be disillusioning.

YARDSTICKS

Uriel's Machine: The Prehistoric Technology That Survived the Flood by Christopher Knight and Robert Lomas (Reviewed by Frank Chambers)

Frank Chambers reviews this book, which postulates a prehistoric civilization and advanced astronomical knowledge recorded by Enoch. The authors claim that Enoch, transported by Uriel, provided knowledge to predict celestial events. Chambers criticizes the book for numerous typographical errors, repetitions, and "fantastic leapings to conclusions," deeming it "Fun to read but not a scientific text." He suggests downloading freeware "Home Planet" for astronomy information.

FAR OUT

Remote Viewing: The History and Science of Psychic Warfare and Spying by Tim Rifat (Reviewed by Richard Wiseman)

Richard Wiseman reviews this book, which details claims of psychic warfare by the Soviet Union and USA during the Cold War. The book discusses military investment in developing psychic energy and mind-control technology. Wiseman notes that the book deals with dramatic claims and the aim to build "psychic agents" for the war effort.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic revolve around critical examination of paranormal claims, New Age beliefs, and pseudoscientific theories. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, challenging unsubstantiated claims and promoting rational inquiry. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific evidence and logical reasoning, as demonstrated by the reviews of books that debunk or critically analyze topics like UFOs, free energy, biblical prophecy, and New Age practices. The magazine encourages readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on evidence-based understanding.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 12 Numbers 3 & 4
Date: 1999
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of The Skeptic critically examines various New Age beliefs, paranormal claims, and the nature of skepticism itself. It features reviews of several books, discussions on psychical research, and letters from readers.

Book Reviews

Scams from the Great Beyond: How to make easy money off ESP, astrology, UFOs, crop circles, cattle mutilations, alien abductions, Atlantis, channelling and other New Age nonsense by Peter Huston

Reviewed by Kate Holden, this book is described as sensationalist, one-sided, tedious, and not worth viewing. The reviewer notes the book's emphasis on psychic warfare and a guide to remote viewing, followed by appendices of 'evidence' from defence intelligence documentation. Holden finds the book to be a superficial and tedious presentation of information.

Office Feng Shui in a Week by Lisa Sumner with Joseph Sumner

Reviewed by Harriett Moore, this book is characterized as a New Age mishmash of half-truths and misinformation. The reviewer suggests that taking its advice seriously would be the fastest way to losing a business. Undesirable office items include telephones, fax machines, computers, printers, scanners, perfumes, artificial fragrances, bright or dull colors, desk clutter, fluorescent lighting, sharp corners, EMF generators, and fizzy drinks machines. Preferred items include neuro-linguistic programming, soft lighting, curved furniture, cork tiles, triple glazing, a fountain, and eco-friendly deodorants.

Mind Myths: Exploring Popular Assumptions and the Mind and the Brain (Editor: Sergio Della Salla)

Reviewed by Mike Hutton, this book is recommended for those curious about neurological and cognitive science who struggle to separate fact from fiction. The seventeen chapters, written by different authors, cover topics like 'Do we only use 10% of our brain?', 'Energy and the brain', Hypnosis, and the Placebo Effect. Hutton praises the clear and concise writing, accessible diagrams, and the book's ability to make complex topics understandable. The book addresses widespread myths while emphasizing how much remains unknown about the brain and behavior.

Be a New Age Bilko: Scams from the Great Beyond by Peter Huston

Reviewed by Robin Allen, this book is described as a how-to guide on bilking people with psychic tricks and New Age bunkum. Allen notes that it's essentially a rehash of existing information and criticizes Huston's superficial treatment of topics like crop circles, demonstrating a lack of knowledge about their creation.

Twenty Year Millennium Wildcat by Donald Rooum

Reviewed by Toby Howard, this review praises Donald Rooum's 'Wildcat' comic strip as a snarlingly cynical, truth-telling character that mocks the system. Howard highlights the strip's humor, beautiful drawing, and energetic frames, calling it consistently hilarious and irreverent.

Too Good to be True: The Colossal Book of Urban Legends by Jan Harold Brunvand

Reviewed by Les Francis, this book is presented as a comprehensive collection of urban legends. Francis notes that Jan Harold Brunvand is the authority on the subject, and the book relates hundreds of tales with trademark humor and panache, exploring the plausibility and vagueness of these stories.

Events

23rd International Conference of the Society for Psychical Research (2-5th September 1999, Durham University)

This section, reviewed by Matt Colborn, discusses the conference's focus on the elusive nature of 'psi'. It highlights experiments by Suitbert Ertel, which were met with skepticism from Sue Blackmore regarding statistical analysis. Simon Sherwood's experiment on consensus judging for dream precognition yielded negative results. Richard Wiseman and Julie Milton's meta-analysis of recent ganzfeld data also found collective scoring to be negative. Adrian Parker presented highlights of his ganzfeld sessions, but Colborn expressed doubts about the abstract nature of his comparisons. The section also touches on talks about sleep paralysis, out-of-body experiences, and paranormal beliefs about dreams, raising questions about the role of skepticism when irrational beliefs positively impact a person's life.

Letters to the Editor

Forteana by Steve Armstrong

Armstrong suggests that a skepticism based on doubt, modified by discovery, is not far removed from a Fortean stance, questioning the difference between a true skeptic and a Fortean.

Meanings by Yilmaz Magurtzey

Magurtzey proposes a distinction between British 'scepticism' (agnostic) and American 'skepticism' (dogmatic), reserving 'Skepticism' (capitalized) for a more extreme, dogmatic form of disbelief.

Science matters by Charles Goodwin

Goodwin questions the methodology of single or double-blind experiments in particle physics, suggesting that computer analysis might introduce experimenter bias and that peer review plays a similar role to blind methodology in human subject experiments.

Blind belief by George Wood

Wood argues that distinguishing between experiments requiring blind techniques and those that do not should be straightforward, especially when objective results are expected, questioning the need for 'experimental investigations' in such cases.

Hungry for money by Ben Whiting

Whiting expresses delight in The Skeptic magazine's aim to combat paranormal claims. He shares a leaflet about Jasmuheen, a 'Breatharian' who claims not to have eaten since 1993, and questions why such individuals charge for lectures instead of helping those in need, and why they don't claim the million-dollar prize from James Randi.

Agnosticism by Steuart Campbell

Campbell corrects a perceived misunderstanding of 'agnosticism', stating it means believing that nothing is known or likely to be known of God or material phenomena, and that it's inappropriate to apply it to skepticism.

Tolerance by Matti Tirkkonen

Tirkkonen criticizes skeptics for being more tolerant of established religions than other superstitions, noting that in Finland, skeptics have teamed up with Christian organizations to defend biblical truths against New Age and UFOlogy. He argues that this collaboration is for political gain and PR campaigning, and that he refrains from calling himself a skeptic due to this hypocrisy.

Gift horse in the mouth?

Helen Dowling, a librarian, explains that the Newham Library service evaluates all material, and they have decided not to accept a complimentary copy of The Skeptic magazine due to a lack of customer requests and because it does not meet their stock policy criteria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic magazine consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based stance, challenging pseudoscience, New Age beliefs, and unsubstantiated paranormal claims. The publication encourages rational inquiry and critical thinking, as evidenced by its reviews, letters, and discussions on scientific methodology. There is a recurring theme of distinguishing between genuine skepticism and dogmatic disbelief, and a concern for the potential for exploitation through fraudulent claims in the paranormal and New Age fields. The magazine also engages with broader philosophical questions, such as the role of belief in people's lives and the nature of scientific evidence.