The Skeptic

Magazine Overview

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 13 Numbers 3 & 4, published in 2000, features a cover story titled 'God on the Brain,' accompanied by an image of a man with electrodes attached to his head and a UFO poster, suggesting an exploration of belief systems and the paranormal.

Contents Overview

The magazine covers a wide range of topics, including:

'God on the Brain'

This central theme is likely explored in the main article, possibly delving into the neurological or psychological aspects of religious experiences or belief.

Other Featured Articles:

• Requiem for Phyllis: A tribute or discussion related to a person named Phyllis.
• John Diamond on Miracle Cures: Columnist John Diamond critically examines claims of miracle cures for serious illnesses, particularly cancer, expressing skepticism towards alternative therapies and alleged conspiracies.
• Global Warming? – Chill Out: An article that likely questions or provides a skeptical perspective on the prevailing discourse around global warming.
• Flying Saucers of the Third Reich: This article investigates purported UFO sightings or phenomena associated with the Third Reich era, likely from a skeptical viewpoint.

Regular Columns and Features:

• Skeptic in Chains: A column by Wendy M. Grossman, likely discussing news and events from a skeptical perspective, including commentary on the US election and public understanding of statistics.
• Hilary Evans' Paranormal Picture Gallery: Features an illustration and discussion on 'The Power of Imagination,' using a historical anecdote about poet Clovis Hugues.
• Hits and Misses: A section reviewing recent news and claims, including a piece on 'BSE is good for you' (likely a critical take on corporate influence in research) and 'Mystic beer' (a humorous look at a crop circle-themed beer).
• Do crop circles keep kosher?: An article discussing crop circle formations, possibly questioning their origins or significance.
• Beware of the wort: An examination of herbal remedies, specifically St. John's Wort, detailing its potential interactions and side effects.
• The power of magnets: A skeptical review of magnotherapy, questioning its effectiveness for treating pain.
• Hi-tech mediaevalism: Investigates modern hoaxes, such as a statue appearing to weep blood using technology.
• A different kind of QI: Discusses Kevin Warwick's experiments with implanted chips and telepathic communication, expressing skepticism.
• The search for IQ: Reports on the SETI@home project and its efforts to find extraterrestrial intelligence.
• Gold-toothed wonders: Critically examines claims of miraculous gold tooth fillings, attributing them to natural explanations or misperceptions.
• X-ray religion: Features an artist using X-rays for portraits and touches upon the concept of miracle fillings.
• Faulty vision: Explores how eye diseases or hallucinations might explain sightings of ghosts and goblins.
• What's Chinese philosophy got to do with it?: Discusses the adoption of Feng Shui by the British Tomato Growers Association.
• Ig Nobel awards 2000: Highlights the humorous and often absurd Ig Nobel awards, with a mention of British recipients.
• Skeptics in a darkened pub: An account of a Skeptics in the Pub meeting disrupted by a power outage.
• It's good to be a lunatic: Comments on the correlation between full moons and phone usage, and the concept of 'displacement activity' related to internet use.
• Telepathy test: Reports on Richard Wiseman's large-scale telepathy experiment.
• Shorts: A collection of brief news items, including celebrity endorsements and paranormal claims.
• Reviews: Book reviews are included.
• Letters: Reader correspondence is featured.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of The Skeptic is critical inquiry and skepticism towards paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and unsubstantiated beliefs. The magazine consistently adopts an evidence-based approach, dissecting extraordinary claims with scientific reasoning and a healthy dose of humor. Recurring themes include the examination of alternative medicine, the psychology of belief, the debunking of hoaxes, and the importance of scientific literacy. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rationalism and empirical evidence, challenging what it perceives as irrationality and gullibility in society. The magazine aims to inform its readers by providing a counterpoint to sensationalist or uncritical reporting on topics ranging from UFOs and psychic phenomena to health fads and conspiracy theories.

This issue of "the SKEPTIC" (Volume 13, Numbers 3 & 4) delves into two primary areas: the debunking of sensationalized paranormal claims, specifically Spontaneous Human Combustion (SHC), and a critical examination of the discourse surrounding global warming, presenting a skeptical viewpoint.

Requiem for Phyllis: The Making of a Horror Story

Jan Willem Nienhuys investigates the origins of sensationalized stories of Spontaneous Human Combustion (SHC), focusing on the case of Maybelle Andrews. He traces the tale's evolution, suggesting it originated from a real incident involving Phyllis Newcombe, who died from severe burns after her dress caught fire at a dance in Chelmsford, England, in 1938. Nienhuys meticulously details how various writers, including Eric Frank Russell, Allan W. Eckert, Vincent Gaddis, and Michael Harrison, embellished and distorted the original event, creating a myth of SHC. He highlights inconsistencies in dates, names, and descriptions across different accounts, concluding that Maybelle Andrews likely never existed and is a fictional construct derived from Phyllis Newcombe's tragedy. The investigation also touches upon other alleged burnings in vehicles, such as Willem ten Bruik, George Turner, and John Greeley, suggesting these too are products of myth-making and distorted reporting.

The True Story of Phyllis

Nienhuys contrasts the sensationalized versions with the factual account of Phyllis Newcombe's death. The incident occurred after a dance at the Shire Hall in Chelmsford. Her dress, made of tulle and satin, caught fire, possibly from a dropped match. Despite rescue efforts, she sustained severe burns and later died from complications, including sepsis and pneumonia. The article emphasizes that this was a tragic accident, not a case of SHC, and criticizes how the media and subsequent authors have sensationalized and misrepresented the facts.

Global Warming? Chill Out

Lewis Jones presents a skeptical perspective on the issue of global warming, arguing that the threat has been greatly exaggerated and is often driven by political agendas rather than sound science. The article critiques the media's role in promoting 'doomsday scenarios' and highlights the views of scientists who question the severity and causes of climate change.

The 'Armageddon Complex'

The author suggests that the environmental movement often operates on an 'Armageddon complex,' using simplified, dramatic statements to push a political agenda. He quotes atmospheric scientist Stephen Schneider admitting the need for 'scary scenarios' to gain attention. The article also points to the historical shift from fears of an Ice Age to concerns about global warming, suggesting a consistent pattern of alarmism.

Critiquing Climate Models and Data

Michaels and Balling, authors of a book critical of mainstream climate science, are cited extensively. They argue that climate models (GCMs) have failed to accurately replicate observed atmospheric data, particularly in the troposphere. The article questions the reliability of these models for making policy recommendations that could harm prosperity. It also highlights that temperature records from satellites, which are highly accurate, show that any slight warming trend is largely attributable to the 1998 El Niño and that there is no significant warming trend otherwise.

Benefits of a Warming Planet?

Contrary to popular belief, the article suggests that a warming planet might not be entirely negative. It notes that nonpolar glaciers have been melting for some time due to natural cycles. Furthermore, it argues that warmer winter months lead to reduced mortality, and that increased carbon dioxide levels are beneficial for plant growth, leading to a 'greening of the earth' and increased agricultural output. The article concludes that the fears of catastrophic sea-level rise are overstated, with estimates suggesting only a modest increase that populations could adapt to.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "the SKEPTIC" consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance, aiming to debunk sensationalized myths and challenge widely accepted narratives, particularly in the realms of the paranormal and environmental science. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards claims that lack robust empirical evidence or appear to be driven by agendas beyond scientific inquiry. The magazine champions rigorous investigation, factual accuracy, and a rational approach to understanding complex phenomena, contrasting these with the distortions and embellishments found in popular media and certain speculative literature.

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 13 Numbers 3 & 4, published by Prometheus Books, delves into several controversial topics, including climate change skepticism, the neuroscience of belief, and the myth of Nazi secret technology related to UFOs. The magazine features articles by Lewis Jones, Barry F. Seidman, Hugh Thomas, and David Hambling, with contributions from various researchers and authors.

Climate Change Skepticism

The article "any putative change in climate" presents a skeptical view on global warming, citing Dennis Avery and other sources. It argues that 20th-century temperature increases were significant and that carbon dioxide acts as a plant fertilizer, potentially boosting crop yields and forest growth. Historical data from the Medieval Climate Optimum is used to suggest that warmer periods have been beneficial for mankind and the environment. The article criticizes the proposed solutions to climate change, suggesting they could cripple energy systems and harm humanity. The conclusion is that the predicted modest global warming should be welcomed rather than feared.

The Neuroscience of Belief: Locating God

Barry F. Seidman's article, "Locating God," explores the question of whether God is hardwired into the human brain. It examines pseudoscientific books that postulate science as proof of God's existence, contrasting this with the view that belief in the supernatural arises from blind evolution and the fear of death. The article discusses how religion has historically served to control masses, fill knowledge gaps, and provide rituals. It highlights that humans are pattern-seeking creatures, sometimes finding patterns where none exist. The fear of death is identified as a primary driver for the concept of God, offering a sense of sanctuary. The article also touches upon the idea that the human brain, with its awareness of mortality, seeks to escape this reality. It presents the work of Dr. Kate Makarec, who suggests that God and religion are intertwined with politics and mental health, and that the idea of God might be a product of human creativity and intelligence.

The Scientific Search for God

This section focuses on the research of Dr. Michael Persinger of Laurentian University, who investigates the neurological basis of religious experiences. Persinger's work with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) aims to induce 'God experiences' by stimulating the temporal lobe of the brain. He hypothesizes that these experiences arise from the brain's hemispheres momentarily separating, creating a sense of a 'presence.' The article explains TMS and its traditional uses, as well as Persinger's adaptation of it. It notes that some critics, like Mark Scott, question the scientific rigor of Persinger's methods, comparing it to 'cold fusion' discoveries and highlighting the lack of replicated, blinded studies. However, Persinger claims to be able to induce these experiences at will.

Still No Sign Of The Blue Smoke?

Hugh Thomas, a Chartered Psychologist, critically examines a pseudoscientific therapy for ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis) involving a miniature radio transmitter. The therapy claims that missing brainwave activity can be restored by carrying a transmitter emitting specific frequencies. Thomas likens this to a flawed analogy, comparing it to a factory manager trying to fix a production line by creating blue smoke from a bonfire, rather than addressing the actual problem within the factory. He argues that EEG is an epiphenomenon (a byproduct) and that treating a side effect will not cure the underlying illness. The article concludes that such alternative therapies often rely on belief and perseverance, with patients attributing recovery to the therapy even if it had no real effect.

Flying Saucers of The Third Reich

David Hambling's article investigates the myth of Nazi secret technology, particularly 'foo fighters' reported by Allied aircrews during World War II. These were described as glowing spheres of light that paced aircraft. While some natural phenomena like St. Elmo's fire and static electricity discharges can create glowing balls, they do not behave like the reported foo fighters. The article examines the popular myth of advanced Nazi weapons, including the V-1 and V-2 rockets, and projects like the ME-262 jet fighter and ME-163 Komet rocket plane. It concludes that while the Germans developed impressive technologies, there is no credible evidence to support the existence of flying saucers or advanced secret weapons beyond conventional aircraft. The article references claims made by Renate Vesco about secret projects like the 'Feuerball' and 'Kugelblitz,' but notes the lack of corroboration in standard aviation literature. It also points out that the V-weapons, while technologically advanced, were not decisive in the war and were less effective than Allied bombing campaigns.

Skeptical Stats

This section presents a series of statistics related to paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and unusual facts. It includes the price of Uri Geller's 'Parascience Pack,' sales rank of a book, the cost of a Vedic Observatory, lawsuits against a Japanese cult, dates related to Nostradamus's predictions, statistics on scientists adjusting conclusions for corporate sponsors, people off work with sore backs, DNA matching probabilities, lottery prize chances, and details from the 2000 US Presidential election. It also lists fundamental physical constants and the fine levied on someone for creating a crop circle.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic magazine consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to examine claims that lack scientific support. This issue demonstrates a clear editorial stance against pseudoscience, unsubstantiated beliefs, and sensationalized myths. The articles challenge widely held beliefs in climate alarmism, supernatural phenomena, and conspiracy theories surrounding Nazi technology. The magazine promotes critical thinking and scientific inquiry, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to seek empirical evidence. The recurring theme is the debunking of popular myths and the promotion of rationalism and skepticism in understanding the world.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 13 Numbers 3 & 4
Date: 1999/2000

This issue of 'The Skeptic' delves into several topics related to unexplained phenomena, media representation, and scientific skepticism. It critically examines historical claims of Nazi secret weapons and UFOs, proposes a scientific explanation for the WWII 'foo fighter' sightings, and analyzes the pervasive bias in media coverage of paranormal subjects.

Nazi Secret Weapons and Flying Saucers

The article begins by addressing the popular notion of advanced Nazi secret weapons, including flying saucers. It debunks many of these claims, suggesting that while Germany did develop advanced weaponry like the V-weapons and the Fritz-X missile, many other 'exotic' projects were impractical or failed. The author points out that key innovations like the jet engine and rocketry were based on Allied or American pioneers (Frank Whittle and Robert Goddard, respectively), and that even the atomic bomb concept originated with Albert Einstein. The idea of Nazi flying saucers is dismissed as belonging to a 'fantasy world,' with proponents often resorting to bizarre theories like the 'hollow world theory' and rejecting established science due to anti-Semitic ideology.

The 'Foo Fighter' Phenomenon Explained as Ball Lightning

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to explaining the WWII 'foo fighter' sightings. The author argues that these phenomena are best understood as ball lightning. The article details the characteristics of ball lightning, noting its ancient history but recent scientific acceptance. It highlights similarities between ball lightning and 'foo fighter' reports, such as electrical interference, attraction to metallic objects, color, size, and duration. The article suggests that interactions between German and Allied radar systems might have contributed to the sightings. It concludes that there is no evidence of solid, structured craft, and that the Nazi flying saucer theory lacks a link to the actual WWII reports, which described balls of light, not saucers.

Critiques of Media and Paranormal Claims

Christopher C. French, a psychologist, presents a skeptical view of the media's relationship with the paranormal. He discusses the advantages and disadvantages for both believers and skeptics when appearing in media contexts, noting the rarity value of informed skeptics. French critiques the tendency of media to sensationalize paranormal claims, often driven by the need to entertain rather than conduct rigorous investigations. He highlights the issue of 'tokenism,' where skeptics are included merely for appearance of balance, and their critical points are often edited out.

Robert Todd Carroll, editor of 'The Skeptic's Dictionary,' examines the controversy surrounding mobile phone health hazards, tracing its origins to talk shows and anecdotes rather than scientific studies. He emphasizes that science cannot definitively prove a negative, leading to persistent uncertainty that media and government can exploit. Carroll argues that anecdotes are often more powerful than scientific evidence for the layperson, and that the scientific community and the public often use different standards of evidence.

Media Bias in Paranormal Programming

Further examples of media bias are provided through an analysis of the TV series 'The Paranormal World of Paul McKenna.' The author, who participated in some of the programs, details instances where demonstrations were presented in a misleading way to enhance the appearance of psychic ability. This included manipulating volunteer selection, editing footage to create false impressions (e.g., regarding Pam Smart's dog JT), and omitting critical evaluations of psychic claims. The article criticizes the focus on entertainment value and viewing figures over critical analysis, leading to a prevalence of pro-paranormal programming.

Believers vs. Skeptics in the Media

The dynamic between believers and skeptics in media is explored, noting that skeptics are often portrayed as cold and uncaring, while believers are depicted as emotional and intuitive. The article suggests that while the believer's worldview may be more emotionally appealing, science prioritizes truth over happiness. It also touches upon the 'with-friends-like-these' syndrome among some skeptics who dismiss claims outright without proper investigation, and the tendency for others to accept any non-paranormal explanation, however far-fetched, rather than consider the possibility of paranormal forces.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific rigor, and a healthy skepticism towards extraordinary claims, particularly those presented in the media. The editorial stance is clearly against pseudoscience and sensationalism, advocating for evidence-based reasoning. The articles collectively aim to debunk popular myths, such as Nazi flying saucers, and to educate readers on how to critically evaluate paranormal phenomena and media portrayals thereof. The underlying message is that while science may have limitations, it is the most reliable tool for understanding reality, and that the allure of 'shadowy secrets' should not replace empirical investigation.

This issue of *The Skeptic* magazine, Volume 13, Numbers 3 & 4, features a cover story titled 'Rhyme and Reason' by Steve Donnelly, with Julian Baggini contributing a 'Philosopher's Corner' column. The magazine focuses on skeptical inquiry across various topics, including science, philosophy, and paranormal claims, with a significant portion dedicated to book reviews.

Philosopher's Corner: Honesty and Core Beliefs

Julian Baggini opens the issue by reflecting on the concept of 'economical with the truth,' admitting to having overstated a case in a previous column regarding the link between philosophy training and skepticism. He contrasts this minor error with the difficulty of admitting mistakes about more substantial, core beliefs, using the existence of God or the morality of pre-marital sex as examples. Baggini also discusses his personal skepticism towards complementary medicine, acknowledging that while some remedies like acupuncture may work, he objects to the 'mumbo-jumbo' often associated with them. He identifies a personal struggle between maintaining an open mind and an emotional desire to dismiss such claims, noting that reason is often weak against strong emotions.

Rhyme and Reason: The Paranormal Doorbell

Steve Donnelly, a physics professor, recounts an experience with his wireless doorbell that seemed to be triggered by paranormal activity. Initially attributing the false alarms to a neighbor's system, he became suspicious when the device activated on seven different frequencies. This led him to explore the phenomenon of Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP), referencing the work of Friedrich Jürgenson and Konstantin Raudive. Jürgenson, a Swedish bird watcher, discovered unexplained voices on his tape recordings, which he believed were communications from the dead. Raudive, a Latvian psychologist, further investigated this, leading to the popularization of EVP. Donnelly notes the vast number of online resources for EVP and discusses potential mundane explanations, such as radio wave reflections or tape recorder artifacts, while also considering the possibility of paranormal communication. He concludes by humorously planning to set up a tape recorder to capture his own EVP, anticipating a 'Co Down voice' berating him for past mischief.

Reviews

The magazine features a comprehensive book review section, covering a wide range of subjects:

Science and Philosophy

• 'God's Equation: Einstein, Relativity and the Expanding Universe' by Amir Aczel: Reviewed by Louise Johnson, this book is described as presenting Einstein's theory of general relativity with a 'human touch,' blending scientific ideas with biographical details. While praised for its readability and objective approach to Einstein, it's noted as not being an easy read.
• 'Labyrinth: A Search For The Hidden Meaning Of Science' by Peter Pesic: Reviewed by Robin Allen, this book explores the idea that nature holds hidden secrets and mysteries. It uses anecdotal storytelling and historical accounts to illustrate how scientists have sought to uncover these codes, including the phenomenon of magnetism and encryption. The review notes that the author sometimes goes too far in interpreting scientific thoughts and links deciphering scientific codes to unraveling nature's hidden messages.
• 'The Five Ages of the Universe: Inside the Physics of Eternity' by Fred Adams and Greg Laughlin: Reviewed by Kate Holden, this book provides an overview of cosmology, detailing the five ages of the universe from the Primordial Era to the Dark Era. It is recommended for those wanting to learn more about cosmology beyond popular accounts.
• 'A Class Act: Did Adam and Eve Have Navels? Discourses on Reflexology, Numerology, Urine Therapy, and Other Dubious Subjects' by Martin Gardner: Reviewed by Toby Howard, this is a collection of Gardner's 'Notes of a Fringe Watcher' columns. It covers a wide array of topics, from evolution and Freudian theory to alchemy and religious views. The review praises Gardner's erudition, straightforwardness, and humor, calling it another classic.
• 'Unexplained Phenomena: A Rough Guide Special' by Bob Rickard and John Michell: Reviewed by Toby Howard, this guide covers various strange phenomena, including unusual rains, statues that come to life, and monsters. While attempting rational explanations, the book's primary aim is entertainment, suggesting that science does not have all the answers.

Paranormal and Alternative Beliefs

• 'Therapeutic Touch' edited by Bela Scheiber and Carla Selby: Reviewed by Mike Hutton, this collection of papers addresses the intrusion of 'Therapeutic Touch' (TT) into nursing practice. It aims to provide skeptics with a guide on how to ensure new therapies are scientifically evaluated. The review encourages lending the book to believers for dialogue.
• 'The Devil's Party: A History of Charlatan Messiahs' by Colin Wilson: Reviewed by Mike Hutton, this book analyzes over 100 cult leaders, describing common character structures. It includes figures like Charles Manson and Jim Jones, and discusses historical instances of false messiahs. The review finds the book fascinating, particularly its disclosure of repeating patterns of sexual deviation.
• 'The Arcadian Cipher: The quest to crack the code of Christianity's greatest secret' by Peter Blake and Paul S Blezard: Reviewed by Willem Betz, this book explores a hypothesis that Jesus did not die on the cross but fled to Southern France, secretly founding a family with Mary Magdalen. The authors suggest this secret was encoded in Poussin's paintings and linked to Rennes-le-Chateau, the Knights Templar, and even Nostradamus.
• 'We Faked the Ghosts of Borley Rectory' by Louis Mayerling: Reviewed by Andrew Green, this book deals with the alleged spectral happenings at Borley Rectory. It aims to provide ammunition for skeptics but is criticized for lacking a bibliography. The review notes that the author humorously explains phenomena like fires and voices, attributing them to the incumbent's wife, Marianne Foyster, and questioning the respectability of Harry Price.
• 'A Rum Affair: A True Story of Botanical Fraud' by Karl Sabbagh: Reviewed by Paul Taylor, this book details a pre-war botanical fraud on the Island of Rum. It explores how scientific institutions handle suspicions about researchers' credibility and includes other cases of dubious science.

Other Subjects

• 'Jacobson's Organ' by Lyall Watson: Reviewed by Frank Chambers, this book discusses the sense of smell and its role in communication, including pheromones and their influence on behavior. It is described as entertaining and thought-provoking, requiring only a basic scientific understanding.
• 'Galileo's Commandment: An Anthology of Great Science Writing' by Edmund Blair Bolles (Editor): Reviewed by Mike Hutton, this collection aims to present science writing that conveys a sense of the author's engagement with ideas. However, the reviewer found the essays largely uninspiring and the selection patchy.
• 'Geons, Black Holes and Quantum Foam: A Life in Physics' by John Archibald Wheeler: Reviewed by Lewis Jones, this autobiography of a theoretical physicist covers his insights into quantum theory, information, and cosmology. It highlights Wheeler's unique writing style and his role in challenging conventional scientific thought.
• 'The Possession at Loudun' by Michel Certeau: Reviewed by Willem Betz, this book analyzes the historical case of demonic possession of nuns in France. While useful for its social and psychological perspective, the writing is described as laborious, intellectual, and pretentious.
• 'The Ecological Indian: Myth and History' by Shepard Krech III: Reviewed by Wolf Roder, this book examines the myth of the 'Noble Savage' and the 'Ecological Indian,' arguing that Native Americans were no more or less conservationist than other peoples, with their impact on the environment influenced by technology and population size.
• 'The Psychology of Survey Response' by Roger Tourangeau, Lance J Rips and Kenneth Rasinski: Reviewed by Mike Walsh, this scholarly work analyzes how people respond to surveys, covering memory, judgment, attitude, bias, and the impact of embarrassment. It is considered particularly useful for skeptics investigating paranormal claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of *The Skeptic* are skepticism, critical thinking, and the scientific evaluation of claims, particularly those related to the paranormal, alternative medicine, and pseudoscience. The magazine consistently promotes a rational, evidence-based approach, challenging unsubstantiated beliefs and highlighting the importance of rigorous scientific methodology. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical inquiry and the debunking of unfounded claims, while also acknowledging the complexities of human belief and the limitations of current scientific understanding. The reviews section showcases a commitment to examining a wide range of books, from hard science to historical and philosophical explorations, all through a skeptical lens.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 13, Numbers 3 & 4
Date: 2000
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK

This issue of The Skeptic magazine delves into a variety of topics, primarily focusing on skeptical inquiry into pseudoscientific claims, paranormal phenomena, and alternative beliefs. It features a robust 'Letters' section where readers engage with previous articles and raise new points, alongside several longer articles and features.

Letters Section

The 'Letters' section is a prominent part of this issue, showcasing reader engagement and debate. Charles Goodwin writes about the concept of 'Unified Consciousness,' linking modern cosmology's view of the Big Bang with religious ideas of an omnipresent God. He also expresses dismay at the inclusion of an astrologer, Maggie Hyde, in The Guardian's Media Guardian section, questioning the rationale for such a move and lamenting the perceived decline in the paper's rational standards.

Jerry Goodenough shares his experience with The Guardian, noting that the publication had previously published credulous articles on alternative therapies, leading him to stop reading it in 1988. Tim Bedding seeks support for his efforts to persuade the UK government to ban advertisements for 'strange powers,' arguing that fraudulent claims should be prohibited unless psychics can prove their abilities.

John Clarke recounts his personal role in starting the UFO phenomenon in 1942 by firing Verey cartridges from a pipe, leading to local newspaper inquiries about strange lights. He also critiques near-death experiences, questioning the logic of having two sets of brains and senses operating independently. Clarke further discusses a BBC TV Horizon program that debunked Graham Hancock's theories about a 'Lost Civilisation' and a 'world-wide flood,' highlighting inconsistencies in Hancock's evidence.

George Wood poses a query regarding the common skeptical claims about the remission rates of psychiatric patients and the effectiveness of counseling, asking for information on refutations of these statements.

Simon Birnstingl defends the practice of self-publishing, arguing that many famous authors began this way and that commercial publishers often reject manuscripts for reasons unrelated to their quality. He distinguishes between 'vanity publishing' and 'self-publishing.'

Steuart Campbell critiques a study on prayer, pointing out that the lack of specific knowledge about the recipients of prayers might invalidate the study's findings from both a scientific and religious perspective.

Articles and Features

'Where UFOs came from' by John Clarke:
Clarke elaborates on his personal account of initiating the UFO craze in 1942 with a simple experiment involving Verey cartridges and a pipe. He details how this led to a newspaper inquiry and subsequent reports of strange lights, thus birthing his interest in 'fibbers, and fabricators.' He also critically examines the concept of near-death experiences (NDEs), posing logical questions about the existence of dual consciousness and sensory input. Clarke further discusses a BBC TV Horizon documentary that dismantled Graham Hancock's theories on a global flood and ancient civilizations, highlighting flaws in his dating and evidence.

'Notes and queries' by George Wood:
Wood raises a point about commonly cited statistics in skeptical circles regarding psychiatric patient remission rates and the efficacy of counseling. He notes that these claims suggest treated patients fare no better than untreated ones, and counseled individuals sometimes fare worse than non-counseled ones. He seeks to know if there are widely accepted refutations of these statistics.

'The Terminator: I won't be back' by an unnamed author:
This piece discusses 'Terminator gene technology,' which is designed to prevent plants from producing viable seeds, thus limiting the spread of genetically modified crops. The author argues that the technology's inherent limitation to one generation is its key feature, not a flaw. The author expresses a cautious approach to genetic modification, acknowledging its potential benefits but also the significant risks, citing an example of engineered fish causing population extinction.

'Potpourri' by Dene Bebbington:
Bebbington analyzes a study on prayer, pointing out a statistical anomaly related to patient randomization. He suggests that the selection process for being prayed for might have a greater effect than the prayer itself. He also critiques the plausibility of cats being kidnapped for organ theft, as suggested in an article about 'The London Cat Flap,' questioning the logistics and the risk involved for abductors.

'Errata' by Ray Ward:
Ward corrects several errors in a previous issue (Vol 13, no. 2), including misattributions of book authors and titles, and the illustration for a review.

'Skeptics in the Pub': This section lists upcoming meetings for the 'Skeptics in the Pub' events in London, detailing dates, times, and locations. It invites anyone interested in or skeptical about the paranormal, alternative medicine, UFOs, and related topics to attend.

'Hilary Evans' Paranormal Picture Gallery':
This feature presents a case from 1931 involving Giuseppe Brizio of Intra, Italy. Brizio, a chronic invalid, reportedly saw the figure of Death beckoning to him in a mirror. This vision caused him to collapse and subsequently die. The text labels it as a case of 'auto-suggestion' but also poses the question of whether the hallucination brought on death or if foreknowledge of death caused the hallucination. Hilary Evans is identified as the co-proprietor of the Mary Evans Picture Library.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, critical analysis of paranormal phenomena, and a commitment to rational inquiry. The magazine consistently questions unsubstantiated beliefs, whether they stem from astrology, alternative medicine, or sensationalized media reports. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning, as evidenced by the debunking of various claims and the encouragement of scientific literacy among its readership. The 'Skeptics in the Pub' events further underscore the magazine's aim to foster a community of critical thinkers.