Skeptic - 2003 - Vol 16 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of *The Skeptic*, Volume 16, Number 3, dated Autumn 2003, is published by CSICOP and Skeptical Inquirer. It is a UK-based publication with an ISSN of 0959-5228. The cover features a striking illustration of an eye and the main headline "Unseen Staring Detection and ESP in Pets," with additional articles listed including "Domesticating the Beast of Bodmin," "A Brief Introduction to Neuro-Linguistic Programming," and "Stupid Sceptic Tricks."

Editorial

The editorial, by Julia Nunn and Chris French, welcomes readers to the third and final part of David Marks' assessment of parapsychology, focusing on 'unseen staring' and the putative ESP ability of pets. Marks' review finds no evidence that people can detect unseen staring above chance levels. Regarding pets, while many owners believe their animals anticipate their return home, Marks suggests this is likely based on learning rather than psychic powers, though more research is needed. The editorial also introduces Martin Parkinson's article on 'Neuro-Linguistic Programming' (NLP), noting its claims to improve work and personal life through techniques based on inferring internal states from verbal and eye-movement clues. It also touches upon David Owens' article discussing tricks and ploys used by skeptics themselves, questioning whether skeptics always play fair. Finally, it mentions Clive Jefferies' piece on 'The Beast of Bodmin' as a light-hearted counterpoint. The editorial concludes by mentioning regular columnists, letters, cartoons, and reviews.

Hits and Misses

In search of prayer power

This section critiques Elizabeth Targ's 1998 research into the efficacy of prayer for AIDS patients, as covered by Wired magazine writer Po Bronson. The article highlights flaws in Targ's study, including unblinded and re-blinded data, and re-running the analysis when the original plan was disrupted by new therapies. The study shifted its focus from mortality to hospital stays and doctor visits, where the prayed-for group showed better results, but this was influenced by medical insurance availability. The author notes that the Mayo Clinic found no beneficial effect in a similar study. Despite the methodological flaws, the article predicts Targ's research will continue to be cited as support for the power of prayer.

Beware the wort

This piece discusses the EU's regulation of alternative remedies and food supplements. While some complain about bureaucracy, *The Times* highlighted concerns that the directive on herbalism is not strict enough. The article clarifies that skeptics examine evidence for each remedy individually, noting that herbs can work as their principles are similar to pharmacology. However, it raises questions about consuming herbs in their original form versus extracted forms, and points out that many food supplements sold in Europe are contaminated with banned substances. Consultant anaesthesiologist Leyla Sanai's conclusion that scientific testing and mandatory training are overdue is agreed with. The article also criticizes the directive's provisions as xenophobic, potentially excluding traditional Chinese remedies while favoring European 'folk knowledge'. The issue of safety testing is emphasized, citing the herb kava as an example of a banned substance due to liver damage reports.

They're all out to get you

This section addresses the prevalence of conspiracy theories in Britain, particularly concerning the food supply being poisoned and government cover-ups. It references research by Dr. Patrick Leman of Royal Holloway, University of London, presented to the British Psychological Society. Leman's study with students suggested that the more dire the consequences of a fake news story about a president's assassination attempt, the more likely students were to believe in a conspiracy. This aligns with the principle that a bigger effect requires a bigger cause. The article also notes that for public figures like Diana, JFK, and Elvis, the idea that their deaths were caused by ordinary events is hard for many to accept. The difficulty in debunking conspiracy theories, even with thorough evidence, is highlighted, as they often resurface and can be proven right 'just often enough' to maintain belief.

Split decision

This part reports on an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) announcement that over half the British public wrongly believed medical science was divided on the safety of the MMR vaccine and its link to autism. The ESRC blamed media reporting for presenting opposing viewpoints equally. The article notes that the bulk of scientific evidence supports the triple vaccine. It questions the impact of the government's rigid stance on single vaccines, suggesting it may have fueled media coverage and parental suspicion. The ESRC study did not examine the effect of government attitudes on parental choice.

Skeptic at large

Invasion of the spirits

Wendy M Grossman discusses a recent increase in calls from people seeking skeptics to discuss life after death. She reiterates the skeptical stance: claims require exceptionally good evidence, especially when defying known science. The article mentions Peter Fenwick's research into near-death experiences (NDEs), including a study in Southampton and his idea of attaching cards to monitors in emergency rooms for patients to read. Grossman finds Fenwick's reasoning about NDE memory formation during unconsciousness unclear, and notes Terry Hines' agreement that EEG 'flatline' is a misnomer and that the brain may still generate action potentials. The piece then shifts to new research in Glasgow by Archie Roy, claiming mediums can do more than convey messages from the deceased, using double-blind techniques. However, the author awaits full details and replication. Gordon Smith, one of Roy's mediums, is quoted explaining his abilities, which Grossman likens to channeling frequencies, questioning why mediums don't enter the lucrative wireless transmission business. She concludes by humorously imagining the complications of deceased relatives communicating from the afterlife.

What are we to make of Exceptional Experience? Part 3: Unseen Staring Detection and ESP in Pets

Ability to detect unseen staring

David Marks' third-part critical review examines Rupert Sheldrake's proposal of 'Alice through the looking-glass' vision, where images are projected outwards. This theory suggests that we might affect what we look at, leading to the idea that people can feel when they are being stared at. While psychologist Titchener reported this phenomenon over a century ago, he attributed it to the staree's reaction to movement, not telepathy. More recent research by Colwell, Schroeder & Sladen (2000) reviewed literature suggesting high incidence rates for detecting unseen staring. However, Colwell's own controlled experiments, testing Sheldrake's findings, suggested that participants scored above chance due to learning non-random patterns in Sheldrake's sequences, a phenomenon known as 'implicit learning' or 'probability learning'. Sheldrake's experimental kits used sequences that were not truly random. Colwell's team repeated the experiment using properly randomized sequences and found no ability to detect staring without feedback, suggesting that improvement was due to pattern learning when feedback was provided. The evidence reviewed provides no support for the claim that people can detect unseen staring.

Pets' ESP ability

This section explores the claim that animals possess supernatural or psychic powers, focusing on the 'psychic pet' phenomenon. Rupert Sheldrake's work, particularly his book "Dogs That Know When Their Owners Are Coming Home," is discussed. Sheldrake claims that dogs like Jaytee (JT) use a 'sixth sense' of telepathy to anticipate their owner's return. Surveys by Sheldrake indicate that a significant percentage of dog owners have noticed such anticipatory behavior. Pamela Smart, JT's owner, participated in research where JT reportedly went to the window 85 out of 100 times before she returned, often minutes before she decided to leave. However, this anticipatory behavior could have been cued by the expectations of other household members. Richard Wiseman's team investigated JT, proposing eight normal explanations, including routine responses, sensory cueing, selective memory, and misremembering. In Wiseman's controlled studies, JT did not accurately detect PS's return times. Sheldrake's later observations, using a pre-arranged bleep system, showed JT by the window more often when PS was expected, suggesting JT learned the timing rather than possessing psychic ability. The article concludes that while many anecdotes exist, there is no solid evidence to support the psychic pet hypothesis, though paranormal beliefs persist independently of objective facts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific evidence to support extraordinary claims. It critically examines parapsychological research, alternative medicine, and popular beliefs, seeking rational explanations based on known scientific principles. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting critical thinking and debunking pseudoscience, while acknowledging the complexity and persistence of paranormal beliefs. The issue covers a range of topics from psychic phenomena and alternative therapies to conspiracy theories and media reporting, all viewed through a lens of scientific scrutiny and rational inquiry.

This issue of The Skeptic, Volume 16, Number 3, dated 'Volume 16 Number 3' (likely early 2003 based on content), is a 20-page magazine published by The Skeptic, focusing on critical thinking and skepticism. The cover story, "Stupid Sceptic Tricks," by David W Owens, addresses common fallacious arguments used by skeptics. Other key articles include "The genesis of P Theory" which analyzes psychological explanations for paranormal beliefs, "Domesticating The Beast Of Bodmin" by Col CJ Harbottle, a personal anecdote, and "A Brief Introduction to Neuro-Linguistic Programming" by Martin Parkinson, which critically examines NLP.

Stupid Sceptic Tricks

David W Owens identifies and explains several common debating tactics employed by skeptics, often used to discredit opposing viewpoints without engaging with evidence. These include:

• Raising the bar: Continuously increasing the standard of evidence required when an opponent appears to meet the current one.
• Sock 'em with Occam: Misusing Occam's Razor by applying it before facts are agreed upon, thus favoring the simplest explanation regardless of evidence.
• Extraordinary claims: Insisting that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence, even when the 'extraordinariness' is subjective.
• Stupid, crazy liars: Accusing individuals of incompetence, mental illness, or dishonesty without factual basis.
• The Santa Claus gambit: Equating moderate claims with extreme ones (like Santa Claus) to dismiss them.
• Shifting the burden of evidence: Insisting that the skeptic does not need to provide evidence for their negative claim (e.g., that something doesn't exist) because they are merely doubting the positive claim.
• The Big Lie: Making a significant, easily disproven claim and relying on the audience's lack of time or inclination to verify it.
• Doubt casting: Focusing on minor or speculative flaws in evidence to dismiss it entirely.
• The Sneer: Attaching a stigma to an idea or claim, implying that anyone who believes it is foolish or mentally unsound, to scare others away from it.

Owens notes that while these tactics can be manipulative, they are not exclusive to skeptics and can be used by believers as well. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing these tricks to avoid being 'bamboozled'.

The genesis of P Theory

This article discusses how 'N-theory' (normal or non-paranormal) interpretations are often sufficient to explain exceptional experiences (EEs). It argues that psychological processes like subjective validation (confirmation bias) and the tendency to see significance in coincidences ('odd matches,' or 'Koestler's Fallacy') make paranormal interpretations (PIEs) seem plausible, even when rational explanations exist. The sheer number of 'one-in-a-million' events occurring in a large population makes statistically improbable coincidences inevitable. The article suggests that the resources for scientific research should be focused on 'Urgent and Serious Problems' (USPs) rather than trivial phenomena like ESP.

Domesticating The Beast Of Bodmin

Col CJ Harbottle (retired) recounts a humorous personal experience of finding a panther in his car after a picnic. He names the panther 'Frank' and describes the process of domesticating it, teaching it basic concepts, and integrating it into village life. The story concludes that simple comforts and a calm disposition are more effective than intense, high-tech investigations for understanding such 'beasts.' The author, Clive Jefferies, is a freelance comedy writer.

A Brief Introduction to Neuro-Linguistic Programming

Martin Parkinson critically examines Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), a field claimed to be essential for communication and personal development. Parkinson argues that NLP is a misnomer, having little to do with neurology or neurolinguistics. He describes it as 'mind/language/hypnosis games' and 'science-fiction fluff' designed to give the impression that human behavior can be reliably changed. While acknowledging that some NLP techniques might be helpful and that sincere people are involved, Parkinson questions its theoretical claims. He cites reviews from a US Army commissioned report and Dr. Michael Heap, which found no objective evidence supporting NLP's core concepts, particularly the 'Preferred/Primary Representation System' (PRS) and eye-movement cues. The article concludes that while NLP training might offer some benefits, its underlying theoretical claims are not scientifically substantiated and it is largely a system based on anecdotal evidence and modeling rather than rigorous theory.

Skeptical Stats

This section presents a collection of 25 miscellaneous statistics, ranging from the number of starlings mimicking a mobile phone ring to the percentage of asylum applicants refused in the UK. These statistics are compiled by Wendy M Grossman and are presented as 'Hits & Misses' and 'Skeptical Stats' that depend on reader contributions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical and critical stance towards paranormal claims, pseudoscientific theories, and manipulative argumentation. It advocates for evidence-based reasoning, psychological explanations for unusual experiences, and the prioritization of research on significant societal problems over less substantiated phenomena. The articles in this issue collectively promote critical thinking and a rational approach to evaluating claims, whether they originate from proponents of the paranormal or from those employing fallacious skeptical tactics.

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 16, Number 3
Date: 2003
Character: A publication dedicated to skeptical inquiry, critical thinking, and the examination of pseudoscientific claims, paranormal phenomena, and the boundaries of science.

Rhyme and Reason by Steve Donnelly

Steve Donnelly, a physics professor at the University of Salford, expresses his frustration with homeopathy, describing it as both the most widely accepted complementary therapy and the most preposterous. He recounts an incident where he was offered a homeopathic remedy for motion sickness, which he found to be a waste of money and an affront to common sense. Donnelly explains the process of homeopathic preparation through repeated dilution, leading to dilutions so extreme that, on average, not a single molecule of the active ingredient remains. He criticizes the concept of 'water memory,' invoked by proponents to explain homeopathy's supposed efficacy, referencing the discredited work of Jacques Benveniste and the subsequent refutation published in Nature. Donnelly concludes that homeopathy belongs more in the realm of fantasy than in medicine, likening it to something from a Harry Potter movie. He ends by humorously noting he found a homeopathic remedy for insomnia containing coffee, suggesting it would be effective with a 'large pinch of salt'.

Philosopher's Corner by Julian Baggini

Julian Baggini, editor of The Philosophers' Magazine, reflects on his own tolerance for irrational beliefs, admitting that certain topics push his limits. He identifies two main issues with a magazine he calls 'Sad' (Spirit and Destiny): its intellectually offensive 'pick and mix' approach to alternative beliefs, where anything from psychics to crop circles are presented without critical distinction, and the fact that such 'New Age nonsense' is no longer confined to niche health food stores but has entered the mainstream, published by companies like Bauer. Baggini also expresses his irritation with 'The Barefoot Doctor,' a regular columnist in The Observer, lamenting the mainstream media's willingness to give platforms to such figures. He concludes by questioning his own 'tolerant chap' persona, suggesting he might be more of a 'curmudgeon'.

ASKE News from the chairman of the Association for Skeptical Enquiry, Michael Heap

Michael Heap reports on the upcoming 11th European Skeptics Congress, detailing the program which includes symposia on 'Science, Health and Medicine' and 'Parapsychology and Anomalistic Psychology,' with keynote speakers like Edzard Ernst, Robert Morris, and Chris French. He mentions the possibility of parallel 'fringe' events and provides practical information on registration fees and subscription discounts for The Skeptic. Heap also announces the 2003 issue of the 'Skeptical Intelligencer,' which will focus on 'sightings of unusual creatures.' He invites contributions and mentions the ASKE Psychic Challenge, with an award of £12,000, and the Randi Challenge, noting interest in dowsing ability tests. Finally, he appeals to the public for reports of bad experiences with individuals claiming paranormal powers, directing readers to the ASKE website for a reproduced complaint and emphasizing the importance of a forum for publicizing such experiences.

Reviews

Skeptical Odysseys: Personal Accounts by the World's Leading Paranormal Inquirers by Paul Kurtz

Reviewed by Ray Ward, this book is described as a substantial collection of newly-written contributions from prominent skeptics, covering various fields of paranormal inquiry and personal journeys into skepticism. It features essays by numerous well-known figures and celebrates the 25th birthday of CSICOP.

Placebo: The Belief Effect by Dylan Evans

Reviewed by Ciarán James O'Keeffe, this book explores the power of the mind in healing. The reviewer praises Evans' detailed account of placebo research, starting from historical precedents to modern studies. The book critically examines various therapies, highlighting that the 'Belief Effect' is the key component in placebo working, and that attributing all healing to 'placebo' can be an oversimplification. O'Keeffe recommends the book for its insightful exploration of the subject.

Bad Medicine: Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed, from Distance Healing to Vitamin O by Christopher Wanjek

Reviewed by Louise Johnson, this book is an enjoyable history of quackery. Wanjek discusses historical and contemporary examples of 'bad medicine,' including homeopathy, rejection of MMR vaccination, and shark cartilage supplements. The book is praised for its lively tone and journalistic approach, though some background knowledge is assumed. Johnson notes that Wanjek sometimes falls into the 'bad medicine' trap himself, making inaccurate claims about dieting and denouncing chemotherapy. Despite these criticisms, the book is recommended for its realistic assessments of health dangers.

Darwin and the Barnacle by Rebecca Stott

Reviewed by Chris Willis, this book focuses on Darwin's obsession with barnacles, exploring how this seemingly minor interest contributed to his broader evolutionary theories and scientific methodology. The review notes that the book is scholarly and well-researched but may only appeal to those with a strong interest in Darwin or barnacles.

EUREKA! The Birth of Science by Andrew Gregory

Reviewed by Willem Betz, this book is praised for its accessible and engaging exploration of the development of science from myth-based explanations to the logical and verifiable hypotheses of the ancient Greeks. Betz highlights the book's holistic approach and its ability to read like a novel, recommending it highly.

The Sense of Being Stared at, and other aspects of the extended mind by Rupert Sheldrake

Reviewed by Hilary Evans, this book examines experiences that are considered extra-sensory, such as sensing when one is being stared at or animals knowing about impending earthquakes. Evans notes that Sheldrake offers a theoretical infrastructure for these phenomena, suggesting an 'extended mind.' The review questions whether these experiences are more than coincidence or delusion, but acknowledges the book's thought-provoking nature.

Flat Earth? Round Earth? by Theresa Martin

Reviewed by Wolf Roder, this children's book (ages 7 and up) uses a dialogue between two schoolboys to teach a skeptical attitude and the understanding of evidence. The book aims to demonstrate that scientific knowledge is based on multiple lines of evidence, not ad hoc explanations. Roder notes that the book drives home a valuable lesson of scientific reasoning, but points out that the reason for one character's stubborn adherence to a flat earth theory is not explicitly stated, suggesting it might be biblical belief.

Letters

Good luck

Fabain Acker, London, comments on the inquest into Donald Campbell's death, noting he was wearing a necklace with an image of St Christopher, implying a superstitious element.

Sloppy reporting

Bill Holmes, California, criticizes media reporting, particularly concerning urban legends and sensationalism. He provides a list of criteria for reporters to ignore or question, emphasizing the need for data over time, empirical evidence, and avoiding anecdotal accounts or political motivation.

Cloning rights

John Tecumseh, California, questions the ethics of running cloning experiments, arguing that if clones are to be treated as humans with rights, they should not be subjected to experiments without consent.

Keen's response to Youens

Montague Keen, London, responds to a previous article by Tony Youens, defending the work of Christine Holohan and Guy Playfair in investigating a murder case. Keen refutes Youens' claims of superficial examination and inaccuracies, providing details about the timeline, the medium's evidence, and the role of Detective Batters in solving the case. He argues that premature judgment based on inadequate information is unwise.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and evidence-based analysis. The magazine actively debunks pseudoscience, paranormal claims, and alternative therapies, particularly those lacking empirical support, such as homeopathy. It provides a platform for skeptical voices and news from organizations like ASKE, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on established scientific principles. The reviews section offers critical assessments of books that engage with these themes, whether supporting or challenging skeptical viewpoints. The overall stance is one of rigorous inquiry and a defense against the spread of misinformation and irrationality in society.