Skeptic - 2005 - Vol 18 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 18 Number 3
Date: Autumn 2005
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0959-5228

This issue of The Skeptic magazine offers a diverse range of articles aimed at a skeptical audience, covering topics from historical mysteries and the nature of belief to scientific funding and paranormal claims. The cover prominently features the headline "How Do I Know What To Believe?" and highlights other key articles including "The Mystery of Hell-Fire Pass Part 1" and "Who the Devil are you?", alongside "Skrapbook" and regular features like News, Book Reviews, Comment, and Humour.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Victoria Hamilton and Chris French, welcomes readers to the latest issue, promising a varied menu of skeptical treats. They introduce the lead articles, including a three-part investigation into the 'Phantom Sniper of Esher' incidents from the 1950s, where motorists' windscreens were allegedly damaged without any physical evidence of projectiles. The editorial also highlights Ben Fridja's piece on Anton LaVey, contrasting his self-proclaimed extraordinary life with a more sordid reality, and Martin Parkinson's fundamental question for skeptics: "how do I know what to believe?" The editors suggest that it's easy to acquire questionable beliefs and encourage self-awareness about the foundations of one's own beliefs. The issue also includes David Langford's "Skrapbook" of skeptical observations, along with letters, book reviews, cartoons, and regular columns. Readers are encouraged to submit their views.

Articles

The Mystery of Hell-Fire Pass: Part One

Paul Chambers and Robert Bartholomew begin a three-part investigation into the 'phantom sniper' incidents that plagued the town of Esher in the 1950s. Over three years, dozens of motorists reported their windscreens being smashed, but police investigations yielded no bullets or missiles. The story, initially reported in The Esher News and Advertiser (ENA), gained notoriety and was nicknamed 'Hell-Fire Pass'. The article details the geographical context of the Portsmouth Road, the focus of these incidents, and recounts early cases, including that of broadcaster Richard Dimbleby. The authors note that the ENA's reporting escalated, eventually leading to local council and police involvement after a .317 caliber bullet was found in a car door in March 1952, marking a turning point in the investigation.

Who the Devil are You?

Ben Fridja explores the life of Anton LaVey, the self-proclaimed 'Black Pope' and founder of the Church of Satan. LaVey claimed an extraordinary life, including running away to be a lion-tamer and having a passionate affair with Marilyn Monroe. However, Fridja presents a less glamorous and more sordid reality of LaVey's actual life.

How Do I Know What To Believe?

Martin Parkinson addresses the fundamental question of belief formation. He argues that it is easy to acquire questionable beliefs and suggests that individuals should recognize that their own beliefs may not be as well-founded as they assume, particularly in areas outside their expertise.

Skrapbook

David Langford presents a collection of skeptical observations and anecdotes in his "Skrapbook."

Paranormal Picture Gallery: Primeval Chaos

This section features an engraving by Bernard Picart from "Le Temple des Muses" (1730-31), illustrating "Primeval Chaos" which, according to the text, pre-existed the Big Bang and Creation. Hilary Evans, co-proprietor of the Mary Evans Picture Library, provides the context for the image.

Hits and Misses: Reviving the Shroud

This section discusses the ongoing debate surrounding the Turin Shroud. It mentions the 1988 carbon-dating results that indicated a medieval origin and Walter McCrone's analysis finding 14th-century pigments. It also covers a new study by Raymond N. Rogers, published in Thermochimica Acta, which claims the carbon-dating sample was taken from an "expertly rewoven patch." The article notes that CSICOP's Joe Nickell points out that the small sample used for dating was destroyed.

Hits and Misses: Science and Spirituality

Sunny Bains, a scientist and journalist, raised concerns at the Association of British Science Writers meeting about British scientific organizations receiving funding from the American religious right, specifically mentioning the Templeton Foundation. The foundation sponsors fellowships and prizes for research into spiritual and theological areas, and its president is also involved in political fundraising. The article notes that while the source of funding may not matter if the science is sound, the association with an anti-science administration is a point of concern. It also references Cynthia Crossen's book "Tainted Truth" regarding research outcomes influenced by funders.

Behind You: USB "Ghost Radar"

This segment discusses the marketing of a USB "Ghost Radar" device, a memory stick that beeps and lights up, claiming to detect electromagnetic turbulence, heat, light, and biometrics associated with apparitions. The article suggests that while it may appeal to believers, skeptics might find it useful for identifying the gullible.

Scopes II

This piece discusses the creationism controversy in the US, focusing on the school district in Dover, Pennsylvania. Parents, backed by civil liberties groups, are suing to block the teaching of Intelligent Design in biology classes, challenging the school board's decision to include it alongside Darwin's Theory.

Skeptic at large...

Wendy M Grossman reflects on the controversy surrounding the bee dance communication theory, originally proposed by Karl von Frisch. While widely accepted, a minority, including Adrian Wenner, argue that odour is the key factor. A recent study using radar tracking by Joe Riley's team at Rothamstead Research supported the dance as a communication method, though Grossman acknowledges the complexity of journalistic judgment in balancing expert opinions and the potential for misrepresenting scientific consensus.

Medical Marketing

Richard Smith, former editor of the British Medical Journal, argues in PLoS Medicine that medical journals have become marketing extensions for pharmaceutical companies. He contends that industry-funded clinical trials often yield favorable results, which are then amplified through journal articles and global media coverage, potentially influencing doctors and the public more credibly than advertisements. Smith advocates for journals to critique trials rather than publish them, and for trials to be publicly funded and registered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical and evidence-based approach to claims, particularly those related to the paranormal, pseudoscience, and questionable scientific research. The editorial stance is critical of unsubstantiated beliefs and highlights the importance of rigorous investigation and critical thinking. Themes recurring throughout the issue include the examination of historical mysteries (like the Esher sniper), the psychology of belief, the influence of media and marketing on public perception, and the intersection of science with religion and spirituality. The magazine appears to advocate for transparency in scientific funding and research, and for a clear distinction between established science and unsubstantiated claims.

Title: The SKEPTIC
Issue: Volume 18, Number 3
Date: November 1952 (cover date), with articles referencing events up to 2005.
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of The Skeptic features a diverse range of articles, from an investigation into a mysterious series of broken windscreens to a critical examination of the life of Anton LaVey, founder of the Church of Satan. It also includes a section on "Skeptical Stats," an exploration of the difficulties in real-world reasoning, and various "Skrapbook" entries offering anecdotal evidence and commentary on paranormal and skeptical topics.

The Esher Broken Windscreens Mystery

The lead story, "A single bullet was never recovered, nor a culprit seen, let alone apprehended," details the perplexing case of broken windscreens in Esher, UK, which occurred over a period of approximately three years, from 1950 to 1953. At least 51 incidents were recorded, with the most serious being four windscreens shattered in a single week in April 1952. Despite intense police activity, including searches and observations, no evidence of a sniper or malicious intent was found. The Metropolitan Police favored the theory of loose stones, a view not shared by local council members. Various theories emerged from the public, including catapults, falling pine cones, and dry ice pellets. The ENA (Evening News Agency) reported on the case, with local interest peaking between May and September 1952, but declining by October. The last reported incident was in Ealing in December 1953. The mystery remained unresolved, with no bullet or culprit ever identified.

Who The Devil Are You? Ben Fridja exposes the truth about Anton LaVey

This extensive article by Ben Fridja debunks many of the myths surrounding Anton LaVey (1930-1997), the founder of the Church of Satan. LaVey cultivated an image of a dark, occult figure, but the article reveals a more mundane and often sordid reality.

The Black Pope's Background

LaVey claimed a Transylvanian gypsy heritage and a childhood exposed to supernatural folklore. However, his true parents were Michael and Gertrude LaVey, and his ancestry was Ukrainian. He spent 1945 in suburban California, not Germany, and never visited the country. His claims of being a former circus lion tamer and organ player were also questioned; records show only three oboists in the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, none named LaVey, and no circus records under his name. He also claimed to have worked for the San Francisco Police, which was denied. A myth about his relationship with Marilyn Monroe was debunked, with Monroe's agent and LaVey's former publicist confirming they never knew each other, and his ex-wife admitting to forging a calendar inscription.

Anton LaVey Served as the Founder of the Most Controversial Religion of the Sixties

LaVey founded the Church of Satan in 1966, declaring the 'Age of Satan.' He claimed principles of sacrifice and sexual orgies, stating "life is the great indulgence, death the great abstinence." The article suggests the Church of Satan was largely a publicity vehicle, with membership grossly exaggerated, likely never exceeding 300 individuals. LaVey's personal life was marked by financial difficulties, bankruptcy, and domestic abuse. He violently beat his wife, Diane, and allegedly forced female disciples into prostitution. He was also implicated in a passive role in the sexual molestation of his grandson and endangered his daughter by revealing her whereabouts to a stalker. His pet lion, Togare, was reportedly mistreated, leading to protests and his arrest. The article also corrects the date of his death to October 29, 1997, not Halloween.

The Truth is Out There

Zeena LaVey, Anton's daughter, revealed truths about her father in a 1998 web article, painting a picture far removed from his public persona. The article highlights that LaVey's claims about his heritage, his involvement with occult rituals in Germany, and his supposed connections to figures like Marilyn Monroe were largely fabricated.

How Do I Know What To Believe?

Martin Parkinson's article addresses the complexities of real-world reasoning and belief acquisition. He argues that people often believe dubious things for reasons that are not necessarily stupid, and may even be good, especially when faced with incomplete or poor-quality information.

The Challenge of Information

Parkinson uses the example of Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) to illustrate how skepticism can be met. He notes that while he, as a writer for The Skeptic, might be accepted as an authority, an intelligent NLP convert would require more than just academic arguments. The convert might point to NLP's presence in psychology textbooks, articles in the British Medical Journal, and courses at universities like Birkbeck and Portsmouth, challenging the skeptic's assumptions about credibility.

The MMR Vaccine Case

The article also touches upon the MMR vaccine scare, noting that while the London Science Museum presented clear, non-patronizing information about its safety, newspaper coverage created a different impression. Parkinson suggests that parents, influenced by media and a general distrust of politicians and even scientists, might rationally choose not to vaccinate, given the perceived risks and limited information.

The Strategy of Politeness

Parkinson proposes that a more effective approach to dealing with questionable beliefs is one of "resolute politeness," aiming to reveal the absurdity of positions without ridiculing the individual. He acknowledges that this approach has limits and that personal indignation can be a temptation.

Skrapbook

David Langford presents a collection of "sceptical scraps" from his archive, featuring various anecdotes and observations:

• Edmund Wilson on Houdini: Wilson's essay includes anecdotes about mediums and their clients, and a French savant's research into the physical characteristics of spirits.
• Terry Pratchett on Strange Encounters: Pratchett recalls investigating claims of glowing hemispheres seen by people who had watched the sun set.
• Julius Caesar on Wildlife: An excerpt discusses German wildlife, including descriptions of mythical creatures like the ox with a single horn and elks that sleep leaning against trees.
• 19th-Century Haunting: An anecdote describes a ghost with three hoofish legs and a roaring voice, later revealed to be an old woman attempting to convert a soldier.
• Diana Wynne Jones on Alternative Medicine: The fantasy author recounts a severe illness attributed to homeopathy, questioning the principle of dilution.
• Mathematics and Irrational Numbers: Ian Watson and Colin Wilson are quoted on the nature of irrational numbers, particularly pi, and the concept of 22/7 as an approximation.
• Science Fiction Authors and Dianetics: An anecdote about John W. Campbell's belief in L. Ron Hubbard's Dianetics, and Alfred Bester's reaction.
• Whitley Strieber's UFO Conspiracy: Strieber describes a nightly experience of a creeping, living object that penetrates his skin and disappears.

Skeptical Stats

This section provides a list of 25 statistics on diverse topics, ranging from drug approval testing and the cost of technology to paranormal phenomena, species counts, and legal claims against NASA. These statistics are often presented to highlight surprising facts or to provide a basis for skeptical inquiry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic magazine consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and controversial figures. The articles in this issue demonstrate a commitment to debunking myths, questioning unsubstantiated claims, and promoting rational thinking. The editorial stance is one of skepticism, encouraging readers to critically evaluate information and to be wary of sensationalism and unfounded beliefs. The magazine aims to provide well-researched counterarguments to popular paranormal narratives and to explore the psychological and social factors that contribute to belief in the extraordinary.

Title: The SKEPTIC
Issue: Volume 18, Number 3
Date: 2005
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of The Skeptic features a diverse range of articles, reviews, and opinion pieces, primarily focusing on skepticism, critical thinking, and the examination of pseudoscientific claims and unusual phenomena.

Rhyme and Reason by Steve Donnelly

Steve Donnelly, a physics professor, expresses frustration with the application of quantitative methods to subjective matters, such as in promotions committees and job interviews. He argues that assigning numerical scores to attributes like 'team player' can lead to enormous margins of error, and that the resulting single number often gains an unwarranted absolute significance. Donnelly draws a parallel between this practice and the 'psychic art of numerology'.

He explains the basic principles of numerology, including the calculation of 'lifepath numbers' from birth dates and 'expression numbers' from names, by summing digits until a single digit or a 'master number' (11 or 22) is reached. He notes that these numbers are often associated with 'Barnum statements' – generalized descriptions that appear accurate to the individual. Donnelly points out that many numerology websites use identical text for each number, suggesting a lack of original sourcing. He humorously suggests that job interviews could be simplified by asking candidates for their birth dates and names, and matching them with Barnum statements.

Donnelly also touches upon his recent encounters with Martin Gardner's books on mathematical puzzles and Japanese Su Duko puzzles, as well as the idea that personal experiences with digital clocks might have cosmic significance.

Philosopher's Corner by Julian Baggini

Julian Baggini, the editor, reflects on the nature of questions that engage the public. He contrasts serious political and social questions with those related to popular soap operas like 'EastEnders', suggesting that the latter might be more effective in capturing public attention. Baggini recounts an instance in Bristol where posters invited people to text answers to questions about soap opera characters, which turned out to be a form of evangelism by the Bible Society, using the website www.getthestory.co.uk.

He discusses the concept of 'digital natives' versus 'digital immigrants', noting that as he ages, he finds it increasingly difficult to understand the behaviors and priorities of younger generations, such as their spending on ringtones. Baggini emphasizes the importance of maintaining skepticism about one's own ability to judge others' ideas and behaviors without falling into excessive relativism.

ASKE News from Michael Heap

Michael Heap, chairman of the Association for Skeptical Enquiry (ASKE), begins with an anecdote about testing a parrot's claimed psychic powers, which, predictably, proved to be false. This leads him to discuss 'cognitive dissonance', the psychological tendency to maintain existing beliefs even when faced with contradictory evidence. He uses the example of scientists potentially valuing theories over experimental results and questions whether figures like Dr. Andrew Wakefield would ever admit their theories were wrong.

Heap addresses a member's query about the point of investigating 'daft ideas' when facing pressing global issues like political misinformation. He argues that while ASKE should not adopt stances on political matters like the Iraq War, it can analyze how politicians justify their actions, comparing Tony Blair's defense regarding 'weapons of mass destruction' to the 'dead parrot' sketch.

Heap also introduces 'Fictionology', a new 'religion' founded by Bud Don Ellroy, which incorporates any imaginary construct into its doctrines. He notes that many followers are former Scientologists and quotes a plastic surgeon who admits it's 'bullshit' but praises Batman as his savior. Heap finds the idea of openly believing in nonsense appealing and is working on a paper about devising quack treatments.

Reviews

PET THEORY: The Sense of Being Stared At and Other Aspects of the Extended Mind by Rupert Sheldrake

Reviewed by Tom Ruffles, this book explores Rupert Sheldrake's arguments for 'psi faculties' and the idea that minds are not confined to brains but can interact with the world. While acknowledging Sheldrake's robust defense and the potential of his research, Ruffles notes that the thesis is familiar from his earlier works and involves repetition. The review suggests that while anecdotes are useful for suggesting research lines, they don't strengthen the case as much as Sheldrake might think. Ruffles calls for more rigorous theoretical underpinning and controlled work before Sheldrake's hypotheses can be accepted by the scientific community.

TALL TALES: The Rise of the Indian Rope Trick by Peter Lamont

Reviewed by Tessa Kendall, this book investigates the history of the Indian Rope Trick hoax. Lamont explores how a story published in the Chicago Times and Tribune in 1890, which was later confessed to be fabricated, sparked a widespread fascination with the 'Mystical East'. The review highlights the book's exploration of colonial attitudes, gullibility, the unreliability of eyewitnesses, and the press's tendency to prioritize a good story over truth. It notes that the trick mutated over time and that Lamont finds no evidence of its existence before the Tribune hoax. Kendall suggests skipping the author's note and epilogue to focus on the research.

SAINT STRIPPERS: Stripping the Gurus: Sex, Violence, Abuse and Enlightenment by Geoffrey D. Falk

Reviewed by Wolf Roder, this 650-page book aims to strip contemporary spiritual leaders of their aura of mystery. Falk focuses on individuals promoting Eastern religions, including famous figures like Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and Bhagwan Sri Rajneesh, as well as lesser-known ones. The debunking extends to figures associated with Scientology, est, and the Findhorn community. The review notes that Falk details the use of drugs, and the emotional, physical, and sexual abuses perpetrated by some leaders. Roder finds the book's style difficult to read due to its numerous direct quotations and suggests it is best used as a reference for journalists and researchers seeking 'dirt' on gurus.

PLEISTOCENE MODULES: Adapting Minds: Evolutionary Psychology and the Persistent Quest for Human Nature by David J. Buller

Reviewed by Paul Taylor, this book examines evolutionary psychology and its quest to understand human nature. Buller focuses on the 'environment of evolutionary adaptedness' (EEA) faced by early humans. The review highlights that the book disputes not whether humans are shaped by evolution, but the methods and theories used to explain it, particularly critiquing Evolutionary Psychology (EP) championed by Steven Pinker, David Buss, and Leda Cosmides. Buller questions EP's 'reverse engineering' approach and reassesses evidence for modules like 'cheater-detection'. The review concludes with Buller's notion that 'human nature is just as great a superstition as the creation myth of natural theologians'.

Letters

More on the Kennedy Assassination by Ray Ward

Ray Ward responds to a previous article on the Kennedy assassination, asserting that credible evidence indicates three shots were fired from behind, that Oswald had the means and opportunity, and that his rifle was suitable. He dismisses the idea of shots coming from the front, explaining Kennedy's backward movement as a reaction to severe injury. Ward also refutes the notion that Jack Ruby was a mob hitman, describing him as a 'born loser' type who sought attention. He argues that organized crime would not have entrusted him with significant tasks due to his inability to keep quiet. Ward suggests Ruby's actions were driven by a desire to be 'in' on dramatic events and that he impulsively shot Oswald, believing he would be treated as a hero.

Skeptics in the Pub

This section announces an upcoming 'Skeptics in the Pub' event, a monthly gathering for those interested in or skeptical about the paranormal. It features invited speakers and informal discussions, held at the Old Kings Head pub in Borough. Details for attendance and contact information are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of claims that lack empirical evidence, the psychological underpinnings of belief in the paranormal and pseudoscience, and the importance of rigorous scientific methodology. The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical viewpoint, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on evidence-based reasoning. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting rationalism and debunking what it considers to be unfounded beliefs, whether they stem from numerology, psychic phenomena, religious cults, or misinterpretations of scientific concepts.