The Skeptic

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 19 Number 2
Date: Summer 2006
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0959-5228

This issue of The Skeptic offers a diverse range of articles examining phenomena from a rational and skeptical perspective. The cover highlights "Natural Science and the Spirit World: Part 2" as the lead feature, with other articles including "Just Your Imagination: Part 2", "Discord", and a review of Mia Dolan's television appearances.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Victoria Hamilton and Chris French, welcomes readers to issue 19.2 and introduces the four main articles. It discusses Tony Yeouns' review of Mia Dolan's 'performance' on ITV1's 'This Morning', touching on the Barnum Effect. The editorial also highlights Martin Parkinson's article on Ki Aikido, which explores ideomotor effects and suggestion, and the continuation of Friedrich Engels' "Dialectics of Nature," focusing on William Crookes' research into mediumship. Finally, it mentions Lee Traynor's article on cognitive dissonance and its application to understanding paranormal belief.

Hilights and Misses

This section covers several brief news items:

• Uncloned: Reports on the fallout from the scientific fraud involving Woo Suk Hwang's stem cell research, detailing ethical violations, financial irregularities, and ongoing investigations.
• Psychic scam warning: An advisory from the Citizens Advice Bureau about fraudsters who promise fortune-telling but abscond with money, noting that while horoscopes can be harmless fun, they can become a problem.
• Kneecapping: Debunks the myth that babies are born without kneecaps, explaining that they are cartilaginous and not visible on X-rays until ossified.
• Unrelated development: The Association of British Science Writers failed to find a worthy recipient for their 2005 award for TV programmes.

Skeptic at large...

Miracles... by Wendy M Grossman discusses the concept of miracles, prompted by a report of an Air France flight crash where all passengers survived. Grossman references a National Transportation Safety Board study showing a high survival rate in plane crashes, arguing that such events are not miracles but rather the result of good preparation and engineering. She reflects on how the word 'miracle' can be misused and lead to a fuzzy understanding of statistics and probability, contrasting this with the views of David Hume and Isaac Asimov.

Natural Science and the Spirit World: Part 2

This is the second installment of an article adapted from Friedrich Engels' "Dialectics of Nature." It focuses on the investigations of William Crookes into spiritualistic phenomena, particularly his work with the medium Miss Florence Cook and the spirit 'Katie King'. Engels critically examines Crookes' methods and conclusions, highlighting instances where skepticism was warranted, such as the incident where 'Katie' was physically restrained and revealed to be Miss Cook. The article also touches upon Professor Zöllner's work on the 'fourth dimension' and its purported connection to spiritualism, questioning the validity of these claims and the reliance on empirical evidence without theoretical rigor. Engels concludes by stating that empiricism, when divorced from theory, can lead to superstition, citing modern spiritualism as an example.

Wise Women and Mad Cows

This piece, featuring a historical illustration, discusses the role of 'Wise Women' in English villages, citing an 1871 incident in Ilchester, Somerset, where a wise woman was consulted to cure cattle afflicted with foot-and-mouth disease. The article, by Hilary Evans, co-proprietor of the Mary Evans Picture Library, poses rhetorical questions about whether such figures have modern successors capable of dealing with contemporary issues like Mad Cow Disease or Bird Flu.

The devil in Harry Potter

This short piece addresses accusations by a Vatican official, Father Gabriele Amorth, who accused J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter books of luring children to devil-worship. It notes that the current Pope had previously expressed similar concerns about the books' "seductions." The article finds the accusation ironic, given the source.

Michael Jackson's nose

A brief mention that Ireland Online reported Uri Geller publicly criticizing Michael Jackson for lying about plastic surgery to documentary maker Martin Bashir.

Cleanliness is next to neurosis

This section critiques the extreme paranoia regarding household dust and dirt observed in parts of the US, citing a Family Circle article that recommended numerous extreme cleaning and disinfecting measures. The author sarcastically questions the extent of these practices.

Darwin in Mexico

This piece discusses an essay in Science Magazine by Mexican biology professor Antonio Lazcano, who explored the deep roots of evolution in Mexican society, countering the misapprehension that its teaching is limited due to the country's Catholic majority. It highlights the peaceful coexistence of Darwin's ideas and Catholic beliefs in Mexico.

James Randi health update

Provides an update on James Randi's recovery after bypass surgery, including information on how to send him well wishes and suggestions for supporting his foundation or donating blood.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, spiritualism, and pseudoscience. The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical approach, emphasizing the importance of scientific evidence, rational analysis, and theoretical rigor. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and critical thinking, actively debunking myths and exposing fraudulent claims. The issue demonstrates a commitment to applying scientific principles to understand phenomena that are often attributed to supernatural or inexplicable causes.

Title: The SKEPTIC
Issue: Volume 19, Number 2
Date: 2005 (estimated based on content)
Publisher: The Skeptic
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of The Skeptic features several articles exploring skepticism, cognitive biases, and the critique of paranormal claims. The main articles delve into the psychological concept of cognitive dissonance, the practice of Ki Aikido, and an examination of a television segment testing a self-proclaimed psychic.

Just Your Imagination Part Two: Feel The Force

Authored by Martin Parkinson, this article continues the exploration of 'Ki Aikido', a martial art that Parkinson practices. He begins by recounting an experience watching Derren Brown perform a trick that he recognized as based on a physical technique learned in Ki Aikido, specifically the 'unliftable body' exercise. Parkinson clarifies that he does not believe 'ki' is a literal mystical force but finds the training valuable for its psychological aspects, particularly the manipulation of attention. He notes that while Ki Aikido attracts some individuals interested in 'alternative' practices, many participants, including himself, understand the 'ki-language' metaphorically.

The article explains the 'unliftable body' technique, which involves a performer being unable to lift a person who is consciously relaxing and directing their attention. Parkinson contrasts this with the more spectacular 'soft' martial arts effects, which he suggests are produced by 'moving the mind' of the opponent. He emphasizes that relaxation is key, and that tense individuals are easier to manipulate. He also touches upon the concept of 'ideomotor action', where the brain gives instructions to muscles without conscious consultation, explaining phenomena like guardian angels and other beliefs.

Parkinson discusses the potential for suggestion to play a role in these effects, referencing an episode of 'Psychic Secrets Revealed' featuring Uri Geller. He also addresses the 'unbendable arm' exercise, where a partner attempts to bend the arm, and how a subtle shift in attention or a brief pause can make the arm seem unbendable. He argues that this is not merely suggestion but involves active manipulation of attention.

The author reflects on the nature of 'belief' and how it relates to alternative healers, suggesting that while they may not address organic illness, they can provide emotional comfort. He also revisits his initial idea for the article, which was to discuss 'Trouble with Metaphor', and how people can mistake metaphors for literal descriptions, particularly in the context of pseudoscience. He acknowledges that everyone struggles with metaphor to some extent and that language's relationship to the world is complex.

Skeptical Stats

This section presents a collection of statistics, many of which are presented in a way that can be interpreted skeptically or humorously. Examples include:

• The number of people living in New Orleans before and after Hurricane Katrina.
• The price of an 'image of Jesus on a piece of sheet metal New' on eBay.
• Percentages of British children who believe their fathers or mothers are the smartest people in the world.
• The number of weeks a London mayor was suspended.
• The number of Fairtrade products available in Britain.
• The number of psychics helping search for a lost whippet.
• The cost of a 'Psychic Journey' at a psychic museum.
• The number of British children who run away annually and the percentage under 11.
• The amount spent on antiterrorism devices by the Department of Homeland Security and the effectiveness of these devices.
• The average percentage of the UK population that people believe are immigrants versus the actual percentage.
• The estimated number of Chinese people who drink their own urine daily.
• The age at which babies show altruistic behavior.
• The number of people in the European Union identifying as Muslim.
• A jazz singer's claim of intergalactic lovers.
• Pension obligations adding to the cost of General Motors vehicles.
• The number of thymus organs found in mice.
• The number of chickens.
• The percentage of British children receiving the MMR vaccine.

The section also includes references for these statistics and a note that 'Both Hits & Misses and Skeptical Stats depend heavily on reader contributions'. It is compiled by Wendy M Grossman.

Discord

Authored by Lee Traynor, this article explores the importance of cognitive dissonance in understanding pseudoscience. Traynor explains Festinger's theory of cognitive dissonance, which posits that individuals cannot hold two contradictory ideas simultaneously and will seek to reduce this discomfort. He clarifies that this is not simply rationalization but a broader theory that covers all possible outcomes of dissonance.

Traynor uses the example of buying an uncomfortable car to illustrate the three ways people reduce dissonance: downplaying the discomfort, focusing on positive attributes of the car, or selling the car. He notes that people tend to change their beliefs rather than their behavior. He then discusses the classic Festinger and Carlsmith experiment, where participants who were paid less ($1) for performing a boring task and then lying about its enjoyability reported enjoying it more than those paid more ($20). This suggests that when external justification (money) is low, people are more likely to change their internal attitudes to align with their actions.

The article draws parallels between this psychological phenomenon and how people embrace pseudoscience. It suggests that practitioners of pseudoscience may possess 'soft skills' like empathy, which can make people more positive about their experiences, even if the pseudoscience itself is questionable. Traynor recounts attending an exorcism and notes that even when nothing significant happens, participants may reinforce their belief in it. He argues that cognitive dissonance can make people's assessments of pseudo-scientists more positive, and that skeptics should acknowledge that people do not always accept the best evidence when judging paranormal phenomena.

Mia Dolan on Granada's This Morning

Authored by Tony Youens, this article critically examines a six-week television feature on the show 'This Morning' (ITV1) that purported to test the psychic abilities of Mia Dolan. Youens, who describes himself as a 'cynic', details the 'Psychic versus Cynic' segment, where Mia Dolan made predictions for volunteers. He argues that the test was poorly designed, making it too easy for even an 'inept cold reader' to pass.

The article outlines the test format: Mia would record written predictions for volunteers without speaking to them, and these volunteers also underwent a personality test. Youens questions how a personality profile could be compared to psychic predictions. He notes that the 'prop' favoured by Mia was aura reading, which he found peculiar when transmitted via television. He criticizes the predictions as mundane and often vague, using the example of 'Wendy has strong psychic ability' as not being a specific prediction.

During the studio phase, Mia gave live readings, and the hosts, Richard Bacon and Denise Van Outen, read out her earlier predictions. Youens points out instances where the hosts misquoted Mia to make her statements sound more precise or significant. For example, a prediction about 'a ring coming off' was interpreted as a 'break in a relationship' rather than a 'change', which, when confirmed by the volunteer, was presented as a hit despite the vagueness of the original statement.

Youens also highlights how the show's presenters consistently attempted to portray Mia in a favorable light, often asking the 'cynic', Dr. David Lewis, to explain away any apparent successes. He criticizes the running score of hits and misses as pointless, as the final decision was made by a public phone vote, which Mia's side won with 62% of the votes (around 1,240 people).

The author concludes by questioning whether such programs, which he labels as 'only entertainment', can justify the abandonment of integrity and the broadcasting of 'any old nonsense'. He suggests that these shows, while free publicity for psychics, can lead people to take psychic advice seriously, thus maintaining the myth of psychic ability. Youens is identified as a founding member of the Association for Skeptical Enquiry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic are skepticism, critical thinking, and the debunking of paranormal claims and pseudoscience. The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance, using psychological theories, scientific reasoning, and empirical evidence to question extraordinary claims. The articles aim to educate readers about cognitive biases, flawed methodologies, and the importance of evidence-based reasoning. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rationalism and against the uncritical acceptance of phenomena that lack robust scientific support. The magazine encourages readers to apply critical thinking to claims of psychic abilities, alternative medicine, and other pseudoscientific topics.

Title: The SKEPTIC
Issue: Volume 19, Number 2
Date: 2006
Character: A publication dedicated to promoting skeptical inquiry and critical thinking across a range of subjects, including pseudoscience, philosophy, and paranormal claims.

Magnetic Quackery

Steve Donnelly, a physics professor, critically examines the resurgence of magnetic therapies. He explains that while magnetism is a well-understood physical force, its application in treatments for various ailments lacks scientific basis. Donnelly uses a simple demonstration with neodymium magnets to illustrate magnetic repulsion, noting that the public's fascination with this 'spooky' force can lead them to accept dubious claims. He cites examples like 'magnetic water' and products from companies like MagneCare, which claim to treat a wide range of conditions. Donnelly also mentions the use of magnetic therapies in avian flu treatment and the NHS's consideration of a magnetic leg wrap. He references a pilot study from Baylor College of Medicine, but dismisses it as statistically insignificant. Ultimately, Donnelly concludes that there is no scientific basis for magnetic therapies and advises readers to avoid spending money on such products.

Philosopher's Corner

Julian Baggini addresses the concept of scepticism, distinguishing between reasoned skepticism and cynicism. He discusses the value of accessible introductions to complex subjects like philosophy and science, arguing against the notion that such works oversimplify to the point of trivialization. Baggini contends that good introductions should engage, entertain, and present significant ideas clearly, while also leaving the reader with an understanding of the limitations of their knowledge. He emphasizes that philosophy, by examining fundamental questions about knowledge, self, and ethics, has inherent value for non-specialists.

ASKE News

Michael Heap, Chairman of ASKE (The Association for Skeptical Enquiry), reports on recent developments. The ASKE website has been revamped with an extensive members' section. Past issues of 'The Skeptical Intelligencer' and 'The Skeptical Adversaria' are being made available online. ASKE has also taken over sponsorship of Rick Wood's internet radio show, 'Audiomartini', which features interviews with skeptical investigators and thinkers. ASKE has offered honorary membership to prominent figures in the skepticism community, including James Randi and Michael Shermer, to foster communication with other organizations. The ASKE Newsletter is being expanded to include more substantial content, with the March 2006 issue focusing on the placebo effect. Membership in ASKE is encouraged, with online payment options available.

Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP)

This section discusses Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), noting its recent appearance in ASKE's email discussions due to a local authority paying for expensive NLP courses. The article traces NLP's origins to the 1970s, arising from disaffection with psychoanalysis and other mainstream psychotherapies. It highlights NLP's claim to be a fast, miraculous therapy, derived from observations of American therapists. The author expresses skepticism about NLP's claims, particularly regarding its representation of sensory modalities and ocular gaze, and notes that NLP has largely transitioned into management training and 'life coaching'.

Reviews

Well, What Do You Know? A Beginner's Guide to Reality by Jim Baggott

John Radford reviews Jim Baggott's book, which explores epistemology, the study of how we know and whether anything is real. The book addresses logical, psychological, and physical problems related to reality, touching on Descartes' 'cogito, ergo sum' and modern physics. Radford finds Baggott's discussion of social reality, where money's existence depends on belief, to be misleading. He notes the book's informal style, use of fantasy and science fiction references, and occasional imprecision in wording, but deems it a readable introduction.

Fangs Ain't What They Used to Be: Vampire Nation by Arlene Russo

Tom Ruffles reviews Arlene Russo's book on the UK vampire scene. He finds the book to be an extended fanzine with mixed results. Russo distinguishes between 'lifestylers' and 'real' vampires, including sanguinarians and psychic vampires. Ruffles notes that the book's interviews with 'lifestylers' are more talkative than those with 'real' vampires, skewing the responses. He finds the book's content, such as vampires alleviating blood cravings with black pudding, to be surprisingly dull. The review points out the book's lack of a proper index and analysis, concluding it offers little substance.

Kuhn vs. Popper: The Struggle for the Soul of Science by Steve Fuller

Paul Taylor reviews Steve Fuller's book, which focuses on the debate between Thomas Kuhn and Karl Popper. Taylor explains that the book delves into their theories and political significances, with Fuller's thesis suggesting that Kuhn 'won' due to the influence of the Cold War on academia. Taylor expresses concerns about Fuller's suggestions that evolution is only 'presumed true' and his treatment of falsificationism. Despite these worries, he finds the book of interest for those exploring the ramifications of this academic dispute.

Will Storr vs the Supernatural: One Man's Search for the Truth about Ghosts by Will Storr

Tessa Kendall reviews Will Storr's book, which chronicles his search for the truth about ghosts. Storr, a self-proclaimed rationalist, grapples with the point of life if death is the end. His journey involves interviews with philosophers, psychiatrists, and ghost-hunters, and explorations of phenomena like EVP and astral planes. Kendall notes Storr's wavering between belief and skepticism, his eventual conviction in the afterlife after visiting a Vatican exorcist, and his dismissal of skeptics. She criticizes his reliance on anecdotal evidence and suggests his conclusion may be confirmation bias.

Letters

Flew's Conversion

Antony Flew writes to clarify details about his 1950 paper 'Theology and Falsification', stating it was published in a student journal called 'University' and was a shortened version of a talk given to the Socratic Club, chaired by C.S. Lewis. He also notes that Darwin died as a believing Christian.

What Do You Mean You Don't Believe?

Alfred Bahr's case for the non-existence of God is presented, followed by a satirical list of 'knock-down arguments' used by the religious to refute it, including appeals to faith, divine will, and mystery.

A Clarification

Steuart Campbell clarifies a point about leap seconds, explaining that while the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) can advise on adding or subtracting leap seconds to synchronize atomic clocks with Earth's rotation, the correction is primarily due to the Moon's tidal drag slowing Earth's rotation, making subtraction unnecessary and unlikely.

Nothingness

Steuart Campbell critiques Alfred Bahr's thesis on the existence of God, arguing that Bahr's interpretation of religious teachings and his concept of 'nothingness' are flawed. Campbell posits that modern cosmology, particularly string theory, suggests the universe arose from higher dimensions and that the creator might exist within these dimensions, though as an atheist, he has no interest in exploring this further.

Skeptics in the Pub

This section announces an upcoming 'Skeptics in the Pub' event, a monthly meeting for those interested in or skeptical about the paranormal. An invited speaker gives a talk, followed by an informal discussion in a pub atmosphere. Details are provided for finding more information on The Skeptic website and contacting Nick Pullar for details about the meeting at the Old Kings Head pub in Borough.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic revolve around the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, particularly magnetic therapy and the paranormal. The magazine consistently promotes a rational, evidence-based approach, challenging unsubstantiated beliefs and therapies. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards claims that lack scientific rigor, encouraging readers to apply critical thinking to a wide range of subjects, from philosophy to popular culture. The inclusion of letters and reviews further reinforces this commitment to open debate and the rigorous evaluation of ideas.