The Skeptic

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Volume: 14
Issue: 1
Date: 2001

This issue of The Skeptic, guest-edited by Chris French, focuses on "Weird Science at Goldsmiths" and introduces the work of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit (APRU) at Goldsmiths College. The magazine explores the psychological underpinnings of paranormal beliefs and experiences, offering skeptical explanations.

Skeptic in Chains

Wendy M. Grossman, the editor, reflects on the issue being an experiment with a guest editor and expresses encouragement for the growing number of academics studying paranormal claims. She also discusses the recent news of John Diamond's death and the public reaction to the Alder Hey organ donation scandal, arguing that the controversy highlights a cultural discomfort with the body's materiality and a pre-existing distrust of medical institutions.

Hits and Misses

This section reviews the House of Lords Select Committee's report on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), noting its sensible recommendations for scientific proof and regulation. It also touches on concerns about Chinese medicine's inclusion and the potential for remedies like Aristolochia to cause harm. A brief report highlights the unlikely twinning of Bonnybridge, Scotland, with Roswell, New Mexico, due to UFO sightings. Finally, it mentions Gene Emery's annual roundup of failed psychic predictions for the year 2000.

Weird Science at Goldsmiths

Chris French introduces the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit (APRU), explaining that anomalistic psychology seeks non-paranormal explanations for experiences that are often attributed to the supernatural. He clarifies that it complements, rather than opposes, parapsychology, and aims to understand why people believe in paranormal phenomena, even when evidence is flimsy. The article lists various topics of interest to anomalistic psychologists, including alien abduction, alternative medicine, and dowsing, and addresses the concerns of some academic psychologists who view the field as trivial or a waste of time. The APRU's efforts to raise the academic profile of anomalistic psychology through symposia are mentioned, along with upcoming articles on Florence Cook and the developmental origins of magical beliefs.

Something wicked this way comes!

Nick Rose discusses sleep paralysis (SP), describing his own terrifying experience and explaining that it is a common sleep disorder, not necessarily indicative of supernatural entities. He notes that SP is often misinterpreted as a paranormal event and can be linked to cultural beliefs like "Old Hag" or "Kanashibari." The article details the symptoms of SP, including paralysis, hallucinations, and a sense of dread, and explores potential causes such as sleep deprivation and stress. While there is no known cure, Rose suggests that knowing SP is harmless and learning to relax can help sufferers cope. He also points out that SP can sometimes be a starting point for out-of-body experiences.

Sprite

This short piece features a cartoon with a character stating "I have no faith in reductionist medicine. I only use alternative therapies," and another responding, "I ride on broomsticks and on flying pigs."

Too complex for humans

This section discusses Matthew Williams, who was fined for making crop circles, and the methods used by crop-circle makers. It also critiques Professor Michael Glickman's interpretation of a crop circle design, which he deemed too complex for humans and indicative of a liar.

The competing books of life

This article briefly touches on the publication of the human genome, noting the scientific squabble over its sequencing and highlighting findings such as the lower-than-expected number of genes and the limited genetic contribution of the Y chromosome.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for a skeptical and evidence-based approach to paranormal claims, emphasizing psychological explanations over supernatural ones. The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and scientific inquiry, as seen in its coverage of anomalistic psychology, critiques of psychic predictions, and discussions on the scientific validity of CAM. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational explanations and a cautious approach to phenomena that lack robust scientific support.

This issue of 'The Skeptic' (Volume 14, Number 1) features a cover story titled "Psychic or Fantasy-Prone?" by Susan E. Crawley, which explores the concept of the "fantasy-prone personality" and its potential links to paranormal beliefs and experiences. The magazine also includes articles on "The Psychology of Psychic Readings" by Kate Holden, discussing "cold reading" techniques; "The Enigma of Florence Cook" by Liz Savva & Louie Savva, detailing the life of a prominent Spiritualist medium; "Developmental Origins of Magical Beliefs" by Karen Hatton, examining children's understanding of magic; and "Rhyme and Reason" by Steve Donnelly, which critiques astrology.

Psychic or Fantasy-Prone?

Susan E. Crawley's article introduces the "fantasy-prone personality," a concept discovered in the early 1980s by researchers Sheryl Wilson and Theodore Barber. These individuals exhibit extensive fantasy lives, vivid imagery, and a tendency to report paranormal experiences such as telepathy, precognition, and encounters with spirits. While an estimated 4 percent of the population may be fantasy-prone, research by Steven Lynn and Judith Rhue has supported the existence of this personality type. Experimental research, however, has not conclusively demonstrated actual psychic abilities in fantasy-prone individuals. Studies by Rhue and Lynn (1988) and Rao (1992) found that while fantasizers might overestimate success in clairvoyance tests, their performance did not differ significantly from non-fantasizers. The article suggests that childhood trauma, leading to the use of fantasy as a coping mechanism, may foster paranormal beliefs, as proposed by Harvey Irwin. Other explanations for reported paranormal experiences include the subjective reality of fantasies and potential special abilities that make individuals more receptive to such experiences. The article also touches upon the association between fantasy-proneness, hypnotic susceptibility, absorption, and dissociation.

The Psychology of Psychic Readings

Kate Holden's article investigates why a significant portion of the population trusts psychics. She notes the variety of "divination" techniques used, from astrology to more obscure methods. Holden suggests that the entertainment value of psychic phenomena might contribute to their acceptance. The article focuses on "cold reading," a technique that allows readers to appear to know personal details about clients without paranormal means. This technique, characterized by Roe (1991), involves strategies like "Barnum statements" (generalised, flattering statements that fit most people), "specific trivia," and "specific generalisations." The "Barnum effect," named after P. T. Barnum, describes the tendency for people to be impressed by the accuracy of such vague statements. The article also briefly mentions "pigeon-holing" and the use of feedback to refine readings. It concludes by noting that cognitive and motivational differences, such as a need for self-knowledge, may influence why individuals seek advice from psychics.

The Enigma of Florence Cook

Liz Savva and Louie Savva's piece delves into the life of Florence Cook, a prominent Spiritualist medium in the mid-nineteenth century. Spiritualism, a movement that combined religious beliefs with occult practices, claimed that human spirits could communicate with the living. Cook gained prominence for her ability to materialize full figures in good light. The article details her early life, her development as a medium, and her association with the Dalston Spiritualist Association. It highlights her experiments with Dr. John Purdon, where she materialised faces while bound, and later, her materialisation of an entire human form identified as her spirit guide, Katie King. The renowned physicist Sir William Crookes was a strong supporter of Cook, conducting investigations that she claimed were conducted in good light. However, critics, including Podmore, pointed out similarities between Cook and the materialised figures, suggesting potential deception. The article notes that while Crookes defended Cook, rumors circulated about his personal involvement, which may have led him to abandon his research into Spiritualism. The piece concludes by stating that the evidence supporting Spiritualists' claims has remained unimpressive, with modern Spiritualism being described as "witchcraft revived."

Developmental Origins of Magical Beliefs

Karen Hatton's article explores how children develop magical beliefs, including the concept of wishing. She notes that while most adults know that direct mental-physical causality is ineffective, many still engage in wishing. Hatton discusses research indicating that young children often hold magical beliefs, lacking an awareness of the distinction between mental and physical. Piaget's work suggested these beliefs are present until around 11 or 12 years of age. Subbotsky identifies two types of causality: psychological and natural-physical, and introduces phenomenalistic causality. The article highlights that children are exposed to various magical events and practices, and that their understanding of what is ordinarily impossible is key to appreciating magical practices. Research suggests children can have trouble differentiating fantasy from reality and maintain beliefs about magical beings and events. The article also touches upon the debate regarding children's understanding of fantasy and reality, with some suggesting a fantasy-reality confusion while others argue for differentiation. It concludes that the issue of whether children are prone to "magical thinking" versus "thinking about magic" needs further investigation, particularly the extent to which they truly believe in supernatural events.

Rhyme and Reason: Astrology Critiqued

Steve Donnelly's "Rhyme and Reason" column critiques astrology, contrasting it with astronomy. Donnelly argues that while astronomy has evolved drastically, astrology has remained essentially unchanged since its origins. His primary objection to astrology is the lack of credible experimental evidence supporting its claims. He points out that studies have shown people cannot distinguish their own astrologically-based character descriptions from randomly selected ones at a rate greater than chance. Donnelly issues a challenge to astrologers to experimentally determine the marital status of couples based on birth charts. He mentions an ongoing experiment with an astrologer named Graham Birchmore, which is being facilitated by the BBC, to test astrological correlations for a dating agency. Donnelly expresses hope that the results will be broadcast and notes the irony of potentially finding the first evidence for astrology's efficacy in a skeptical magazine.

Skeptical Stats

The "Skeptical Stats" section presents a collection of 25 diverse statistics, ranging from the cost of boxer shorts and chalk erosion rates to UFO sightings, the cost of doctors' errors, and public opinion on election results. These statistics are sourced from various publications and websites.

Skeptics in the Pub

This section announces upcoming "Skeptics in the Pub" meetings, including a talk by David Marks on "The Psychology of the Psychic" and another by Scott Campbell on "Why Falsification is False." The meetings are held at the Florence Nightingale Pub in London.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, psychic phenomena, and pseudoscientific beliefs. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, seeking empirical evidence and rational explanations for phenomena often attributed to the supernatural or extraordinary. Articles explore the psychological underpinnings of belief in such phenomena, the techniques used to create illusions of psychic ability, and the historical context of movements like Spiritualism. The critique of astrology in "Rhyme and Reason" exemplifies the magazine's commitment to challenging unsubstantiated claims with scientific reasoning and evidence-based inquiry. The overall editorial stance is one of promoting critical thinking and scientific literacy in the face of popular but often unfounded beliefs.

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 14, Number 1, dated as Volume 14 Number 1, features a cover story titled 'Philosopher's Corner' by Julian Baggini. The magazine focuses on critical thinking, skepticism, and the review of various books and topics related to the paranormal and pseudoscience.

Philosopher's Corner: Believe Nothing

Julian Baggini's article "Believe Nothing" explores the "partners in guilt" move, a technique used to highlight flaws in an opponent's argument by showing their own arguments contain similar weaknesses. He discusses how this applies to skepticism and atheism, noting that while atheism is not a faith, skepticism requires demanding good reasons for any belief. A key concern raised is the danger of intellectual arrogance, where skeptics may cease to apply their critical standards to themselves, becoming smug about their perceived superiority. Baggini cites philosophers like Simon Glendinning, Stephen Mulhall, and Jonathan Rée, who suggest that British philosophy, for example, may have mistakenly attributed its flaws to thinkers in mainland Europe. He also refers to Bertrand Russell's later work, suggesting that even brilliant minds can fall into the trap of applying their critical faculties to others but not to themselves. The article concludes by emphasizing that the non-skeptics' call for skepticism about one's own beliefs should be seen as a reminder of a perennial truth, especially when one is quick to spot flaws in others.

Reviews

STAR CHUMPS: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Astrology

Reviewed by Kate Holden, this book by Madeline Gerwick-Brodeur and Lisa Lenard is described as a comprehensive introduction to astrology, covering its history, famous astrologers, and 'astro-lingo'. It includes analysis of astrological traits, birth chart calculation, and connections to everyday life. Holden notes that while delightful for believers, it also serves as a useful manual for cold reading and is entertaining and well-presented.

EARTHLY HORRORS: Living Terrors: What America Needs to Know to Survive the Coming Bioterrorist Catastrophe

Reviewed by Kate Holden, this book by Michael T. Osterholm and John Schwartz details potential bioterrorist scenarios involving diseases like smallpox and anthrax. It highlights the lack of preparedness in medical facilities and the conflict between medical and law enforcement needs. The review notes that the book serves as a reminder that rational understanding of the world is crucial for making intelligent decisions, especially in averting or managing crises.

KNOWING THE ANCIENTS: The Crystal Sun: Rediscovering a Lost Technology of the Ancient World

Reviewed by Wendy M. Grossman, Robert Temple's book is examined for its exploration of ancient optics. Grossman notes that the book is impressively documented and credible in its discussion of ancient lenses and burning mirrors, though she is less comfortable with the discussion of mathematical constants in music. She suggests that the book presents either a story of misguided researchers or an obsessive one, but is likely correct about ancient optics, even if interpretations of stone circles are less supported.

IN THE AIR AT NIGHT: The Scareship Mystery

Reviewed by Rachel Winston, this book by Nigel Watson et al. focuses on specific waves of 'scareship' sightings in Britain, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, and WW1 America. The review highlights that hundreds of people from various walks of life reported seeing flying machines where none could have existed. The book documents the process of delusion, and Winston questions the distinction between deluded individuals and doubters.

PRESENT INDICATIVE: The Supreme Paradox: A Book for the Third Millennium

Reviewed by Hilary Evans, Jonathan Sage's book is described as musings from his retirement. The review notes that the first part summarizes philosophers, with Sage favoring the idealist tradition. However, the book then delves into karma, astrology, and the Akashic Record. Evans finds the book less brilliant than its chosen niche and suggests that while it may be a 'taster' for those seeking contemporary psychological theory, it is not clearly preferable to other general introductory texts.

GETTING IT WRONG: Biblical Errancy

Reviewed by Paul Taylor, C. Dennis McKinsey's book is a resource for debating with religious individuals who believe the Bible to be infallible. Taylor describes it as an 'armoury of weapons' for confounding fundamentalists, offering potential experiments to prove or disprove biblical claims and a record of unfulfilled prophecies. The review highlights the book's section on quotations from skeptics, including Robert Ingersoll.

MIND MATTERS: Oxford Guide to the Mind

Reviewed by John Gillies, this compilation of articles from the larger 'Oxford Companion to the Mind' is grouped into six themes. Gillies notes that while the science and writing are of high standard, the constant changes in style make the slim volume feel fragmentary. He questions the likely audience, finding it too selective for an encyclopedia and not clearly preferable to other general introductory texts for non-specialists.

Letters

God in Mind

Elsie Karbacz of Colchester, Essex, responds to an article by Barry F. Seidman, questioning the mixing of science and faith. She argues that science cannot prove or disprove God's existence, which is the province of faith. She suggests that belief in God likely originated from personifying natural forces and that there is no need to posit the supernatural or brain malfunction for such beliefs.

God in Mind (continued)

Antony Flew of Reading discusses the concept of God in Chinese language, noting the absence of a direct ideograph and the use of 'Tian'. He references Plato's idea that beliefs about gods and the afterlife were created to sustain order and discipline, and that social scientists later showed how these evolved as unintended consequences of human actions.

The doorbell knocks twice

Stephen Coutts of by email shares an experience similar to Steve Donnelly's "Rhyme and Reason" article about EVP. His girlfriend's radio-signal doorbell mysteriously rang, but they discovered the cause was switching off a particular bedside lamp. Coutts suggests a scientific explanation rather than paranormal activity.

The doorbell knocks twice (continued)

Lassi Hyvärinen of Divonne les Bains, France, notes that his inkjet printer complains with repeated "eenough, eenough, eenough" sounds, suggesting that extraordinary pains are not needed to find hidden messages.

Blowing hot and cold

Michael Allaby of Argyll, Scotland, writes in response to Lewis Jones's article "Global Warming? Chill Out", agreeing that the global warming scenario can be challenged. He points out that Siberia is experiencing its coldest winter and North America its coldest November and December, and that atmospheric CO2 concentrations rise after ice ages end, not before.

Blowing hot and cold (continued)

Nick Campion of by email also comments on Lewis Jones's article, questioning whether it is based on Republican propaganda and comparing it to the "Reds-under-the-bed" scare. He suggests that if global warming prophets-of-doom serve a political agenda, so do their rivals, and asks for clarification on whether Sir John Houghton is an "econut", "ecotheologian", or "ecosocialist".

Foo fighters – or stars?

Steuart Campbell of Edinburgh responds to David Hambling's article on "Flying Saucers of the Third Reich." Campbell argues that R. V. Jones stated that 'foo fighter' scares arose from the imagination of men under strain, interpreting observations naturally. He suggests that 'foo fighters' were likely bright stars or planets mistaken for aircraft, and dismisses ball lightning as a cause.

Foo fighters – or stars? (continued)

Donald Room of London recalls George Formby's 1939 song "The Maginot Line" which mentioned Hitler's "secret weapon" as "tommyrot."

Indecent proposal

David G. Hunt of High Wycombe, Bucks, refers to Professor David Fontana's interest in the Scole Effect and suggests that the group take the million-dollar challenge offered by the James Randi Educational Foundation to demonstrate psychic abilities.

Back Issues

The magazine provides a list of available back issues from Volume 4 (1990) to Volume 13 (2000), with prices and discounts for multiple purchases. It also lists subscription details for the UK, Europe, and the rest of the world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of The Skeptic maintains a strong focus on critical thinking, scientific rationalism, and the debunking of pseudoscience and paranormal claims. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, encouraging readers to question unsubstantiated beliefs and to apply rigorous standards of evidence and logic. Recurring themes include the psychology of belief, the nature of evidence, the history of pseudoscience, and the critique of various paranormal phenomena such as UFOs, astrology, and psychic abilities. The magazine also engages with philosophical debates surrounding skepticism and the challenges of maintaining intellectual honesty.