Skeptic - 2006 - Vol 19 No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: The Skeptic
Issue: Volume 19 Number 4
Date: Winter 2006

This issue of The Skeptic magazine offers a diverse range of articles, from historical and religious inquiries to explorations of psychological phenomena and scientific debates. The cover prominently features a painting of the crucifixion and poses the question, "Just Who Wrote the Passion of Christ by Emmerich?", indicating a focus on the origins and authorship of religious texts and narratives.

Featured Articles

Just Who Wrote the Passion of Christ by Emmerich?

This article, by Wolf Roder, delves into the claimed source material for the film 'The Passion of Christ'. It questions the authorship of Anne Catherine Emmerich's 'The Dolorous Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ', noting that Emmerich herself was illiterate and that the book is believed to be based on her 'conversations with Jesus'. The piece highlights the role of Clemens Brentano in recording Emmerich's dictations and discusses the vivid imagination involved.

What Colour is Four? The Perception of Synaesthesia in Art and Science

Marc Tibber explores the phenomenon of synaesthesia, a condition where sensory modalities are interconnected. The article details how individuals might associate colors with numbers or words, and traces the history of synaesthesia's study from John Locke's observations to its fluctuating interest in scientific and artistic communities. It discusses the impact of behaviorism on its study and the resurgence of interest due to advancements in neuroimaging techniques like fMRI.

Alexander the Oracle-Monger

Adam Buick examines the historical rivalry between Alexander, a renowned oracle-monger in Roman times, and Lucian of Samosata, an Epicurean critic. The article suggests that despite Lucian's attempts to expose Alexander's practices as a hoax, the public remained captivated by the oracle's perceived divinity, illustrating a timeless susceptibility to simplistic scams.

A Physiological Reason Why Superman Behaves like a Boy Scout

Robert Castro offers a satirical take on the superhero Superman, humorously exploring a physiological explanation for his behavior. This short article is presented as a lighthearted piece for the magazine's readers.

Hilary Evans' Paranormal Picture Gallery

This section features a cover of Frank Scully's 1950 book, "Behind the Flying Saucers." Hilary Evans questions why governments might withhold information about UFOs, pondering if the public, especially in a post-9/11 world, could handle such revelations.

Shorter Pieces and Columns

Editorial

Victoria Hamilton and Chris French welcome readers to the issue, introducing the main articles and highlighting the historical and psychological themes explored within.

Hits and Misses

• This section covers several brief topics:
• The missing G-spot: A study by Dr. Mario Beauregard at the Université de Montréal suggests that spiritual experiences activate multiple brain regions, rather than a single "God spot."
• Tomb of Christ: next left: A curious legend from the Japanese village of Shingo claims that Jesus Christ is buried there, having spent many years in Japan after escaping crucifixion.
• Planetary realignment: The article notes Pluto's reclassification as a "dwarf planet" and the debate surrounding this decision, particularly from astrologers like Russell Grant.
• What is science?: This piece discusses the controversy surrounding the British Association for the Advancement of Science festival including a panel on topics like phone telepathy and deathbed experiences, questioning the media's focus on the controversy over the actual content of the panel.
• Shampoo: The article references Matthew Parris's experiment of not washing his hair for ten years and discusses the marketing of hair care products, suggesting that expensive brands may not offer significant advantages over cheaper ones.

Skeptic at large...

Wendy M Grossman writes about her personal experience with eczema and the treatment prescribed by Dr. Rudolf Baer using papaverine. She discusses how the treatment, which provided her with years of relief, was later found in double-blind studies to be indistinguishable from a placebo, raising questions about the nature of healing and personal experience.

Rhyme and Reason

This regular column is present but its content is not detailed in the provided text.

Philosopher's Corner

This regular column is present but its content is not detailed in the provided text.

ASKE News

This section provides news from ASKE, but its specific content is not detailed.

Reviews and Letters

The issue includes pages dedicated to book reviews and letters from readers, indicating engagement with the magazine's content and community.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptic consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to examining claims, particularly those related to the paranormal, pseudoscience, and unusual psychological phenomena. The magazine encourages open-mindedness while maintaining a rigorous standard for scientific inquiry. Themes recurring throughout this issue include the examination of historical narratives, the scientific understanding of consciousness and perception, and the debunking of pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of empirical evidence and rational explanation, as demonstrated by the critical analysis of topics ranging from religious claims to the marketing of consumer products.

This issue of The Skeptic (Volume 19, Number 4) features a diverse range of articles, from the scientific exploration of synaesthesia and historical accounts of religious fraud to literary analysis and a satirical look at comic book characters. The magazine maintains a skeptical stance, critically examining claims and beliefs across various domains.

Synaesthesia: A Lesson in Skepticism

The issue opens with a discussion on synaesthesia, a neurological condition where sensory experiences are blended (e.g., seeing colors when hearing sounds). The author notes that while scientific exploration of synaesthesia has lagged behind artistic initiatives, it has eventually been validated through empirical research. This journey from skepticism to acceptance is presented as a model for other fringe scientific fields, such as extra-sensory perception (ESP). The article highlights that skepticism is a necessary tool for questioning existing paradigms but can become a hindrance when it drifts into dogma, rejecting ideas without investigation. The author emphasizes that healthy skepticism questions rather than denies, and that evidence for phenomena like synaesthesia is now overwhelming.

Alexander the Oracle-Monger

This lengthy article by Adam Buick details the life and fraudulent activities of Alexander, the founder of the snake-god cult of Glycon in the 2nd century CE. Centered in Abonutichus, Asia Minor, Alexander was exposed by Lucian of Samosata, a follower of Epicurean philosophy. The article contrasts Alexander's deception with the Epicurean emphasis on understanding nature through reason and rejecting superstition and fear of the afterlife. Lucretius's poem "De Natura Rerum" is cited as a key text explaining the Epicurean view that natural phenomena have rational explanations, not divine intervention. Alexander's methods involved burying bronze plates to predict Asclepius's return, planting a snake egg in a temple foundation, and using a tube for a 'talking' snake-god. He also employed tricks like resealing letters and using informants to provide answers to supplicants. The cult's hostility towards Epicureans and Christians is noted, as is Alexander's eventual death from gangrene. The cult persisted for about a century after Alexander's death.

Just Who Wrote the Passion of Christ by Emmerich?

Wolf Roder revisits the controversial authorship of "The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ," a book attributed to the visionary nun Anna Katharina Emmerich (1774-1824). Emmerich, who claimed her knowledge came from divine visions and never learned to read or write, was beatified by Pope John Paul II. However, the article strongly suggests that the book, and others attributed to her, were actually the literary inventions of Clemens Maria Brentano, a romantic poet. Brentano, who lived from 1778-1842, was known for his rich, fantastic literary style. He settled near Emmerich in Diilmen in 1819 to record her visions. While Brentano insisted he adhered strictly to Emmerich's recorded words, later analysis by Hermann Cardauns and Winfried Hiimpfer concluded that Brentano deliberately wove his own inventions and other stories into the diaries, calling it a "deliberate scholarly mystification." The article also notes potential plagiarism from Martin von Cochem. The conclusion is that Mel Gibson's film does not depict historical biblical tales but rather the fantasy of a German romantic poet.

A Physiological Reason Why Superman Behaves like a Boy Scout

Robert Castro offers a satirical look at the physiology behind Superman's behavior. While appearing human, his Kryptonian origins and upbringing on Earth have led to physiological deviations, most notably superhuman strength and senses. Castro posits that the expansion of brain areas responsible for these super senses (auditory, visual, and sensory integration) may have come at the expense of the frontal lobe, which controls judgment, socialization, and spontaneity. This disproportionate development could explain Superman's perceived naiveté and 'boy-scout' like behavior, potentially viewing it as a form of autism where certain areas excel while others are underdeveloped. The author suggests that if Superman had emigrated after age 15, his brain would have been fully formed, and these deviations would not have occurred.

Skeptical Stats

This section presents a collection of statistics, often highlighting the absurd or counter-intuitive. Examples include the cost of wearing a used cardigan belonging to a serial killer (£10), the percentage of American atheists who are obese (7%), the estimated number of Scientologists (millions, with critics estimating 100,000-200,000), the cost of aura imaging (£45), the number of Americans injured annually by drug errors (over 1.5 million), and the cost of a psychic removing a curse ($220,000). It also includes statistics on HIV patients using alternative therapies, the death rate increase due to AIDS in South Africa, and the number of animal experiments conducted in the UK.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical examination of claims, the nature of evidence, and the distinction between genuine phenomena and fraud or misinterpretation. The magazine consistently champions a skeptical approach, encouraging readers to question authority, scrutinize evidence, and be wary of superstition, pseudoscience, and unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry, scientific methodology, and the debunking of paranormal or extraordinary claims, as exemplified by the articles on synaesthesia, Alexander's cult, Emmerich's writings, and Superman's physiology. The "Skeptical Stats" section further reinforces this by presenting data that often undermines common assumptions or highlights the bizarre.

Title: The SKEPTIC
Issue: Volume 19, Number 4
Date: 2006
Character: A publication dedicated to critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and the examination of pseudoscientific claims and anomalous phenomena.

Rhyme and Reason by Steve Donnelly

This article critically examines the claims of the Dublin-based company Steorn Ltd, which purports to have developed a technology producing 'free, clean, and constant energy.' Donnelly highlights Steorn's challenge to the scientific community to test their technology, which is reportedly based on magnetic fields. He contrasts this with the complex and long-term development of fusion reactors, like ITER, which aim to generate energy by harnessing nuclear fusion. Donnelly expresses skepticism about Steorn's claims, wagering that their technology will not power everyday devices within a decade. He explains the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, particularly the first and second laws, which dictate that energy cannot be created and that some is always lost in any system. He uses the example of a perpetual motion machine (a static bicycle connected to a generator and motor) to illustrate why such devices are impossible. Donnelly concludes by humorously suggesting readers invest in a warm jumper and a bicycle rather than anticipating Steorn's technology.

Philosopher's Corner by Julian Baggini

Julian Baggini reflects on his discomfort during a trip to Buenos Aires, attributing it partly to intercontinental travel and partly to a 'soma psychotic condition.' He posits that philosophy itself can be defined as 'the seeking of discomfort.' Baggini contrasts his current unease with a previous holiday in Mallorca, where the resort was designed to make British tourists feel at home, minimizing any sense of foreignness. He discusses the moral ambiguity he feels in Argentina, a country with high economic inequality and poverty, where the visible signs of wealth contrast sharply with the struggles of many. He notes the paranoia induced by a recent crime wave and the guilt associated with his own relative privilege. Baggini connects this feeling to the concept of inherited wealth and the moral responsibility that comes with knowing its potentially problematic origins. He argues that the discomfort of a philosophical life, while not always leading to immediate change, is crucial for recognizing and addressing our errors, especially when we are 'too cosy with how things are to notice.'

ASKE News by Michael Heap

Michael Heap, Chairman of ASKE, discusses the debate surrounding the name 'sceptic' and its often negative connotations. He notes that 'sceptic' is frequently assumed to mean someone who doubts or rejects ideas, whereas 'critic' can sometimes be used more neutrally. Heap suggests that while scientists investigate the natural world, sceptics focus on beliefs and practices that contradict rational thought and scientific evidence. He lists various topics that fall under the domain of scepticism, including Creationism, homeopathy, dowsing, alien abduction, and psychic mediums. Heap emphasizes that understanding these phenomena requires knowledge of scientific theories as well as psychological principles like the placebo effect and cold reading. He proposes 'realism' and 'realist' as potential alternative terms, reflecting the principle that an objective reality exists but is difficult to ascertain reliably. Ultimately, Heap concludes that the impact of sceptics' work on public awareness will redefine the understanding of the word 'sceptic.'

Reviews

SABOTAGE: A Mind of Its Own: How Your Brain Distorts and Deceives by Cordelia Fine

Reviewed by Pan Pantziarka, this book challenges the notion of the rational brain. Fine's work, drawing on extensive research, portrays the brain as vain, egotistical, devious, untruthful, and bigoted, more akin to a populist politician than a seeker of truth. While this might seem depressing, the review suggests that the mind's tendency to play such tricks is common. Despite the brain's potential for deception, the review concludes that consciousness and reasoning are not complete illusions, as evidenced by our ability to engage with complex tasks like reading and writing.

MAGPIES AND MASCOTS: The Penguin Guide to the Superstitions of Britain and Ireland by Steve Roud

Reviewed by Mike Hutton, this book explores British superstitions, such as the tradition of greeting magpies. Roud defines superstition as a belief in luck, omens, and occult powers, where coincidences are imbued with deeper meaning. The review notes that superstitions often thrive in atmospheres of fear and uncertainty, citing the increase in lucky charms during World War I. Roud rejects the 'ancient origins' approach to superstitions, pointing out common motifs and folk tale connections. The review suggests that superstitions may be less prevalent now than in the past, based on survey data.

TALK OF THE DEVIL: Evil Incarnate: Rumors of Demonic Conspiracy & Satanic Abuse in History by David Frankfurter

Reviewed by Tessa Kendall, this book examines the history of Satanic Ritual Abuse (SRA) allegations. Frankfurter traces the origins of demonology as a tool for religious institutions to control the world and exert power. The review highlights how SRA panic in the 1980s merged with concerns about child abuse, externalizing demonic causes to avoid confronting human failings. Frankfurter concludes that there is no forensic or archaeological evidence for SRA, and that historical atrocities occur in the context of purging perceived evil rather than in actual demonic ceremonies.

HISTORY LESSONS: Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive by Jared Diamond

Reviewed by Paul Taylor, this book explores why societies fail. Diamond uses examples like the Easter Islanders and the Mayans to illustrate how deforestation and resource depletion can lead to societal collapse. He emphasizes that understanding the origins of such events, like the Rwandan genocide, is crucial for preventing future occurrences, cautioning against ecological determinism. The book concludes by offering practical lessons and reasons for hope, based on comparative analysis of societal successes and failures.

LETTERS

Gardner on Flew

Martin Gardner questions Antony Flew's claim that Darwin died a believing Christian, stating that Darwin was an avowed agnostic in his later life and opposed Christianity. Gardner also discusses the concept of Deism and compares it to Spinoza's concept of God.

Plan B for Atheists

John Woodhead also refutes the claim that Darwin died a Christian, citing Darwin's autobiography and family accounts. He criticizes the idea of deathbed conversions as a rationalization and humorously suggests planning his own deathbed conversion 'just in case.'

Another rebuttal for Bojczuk

This letter addresses Jeremy Bojczuk's assertions regarding Oswald and the Tippit shooting, and Ruby's alleged Mob connections. The author reiterates that the evidence linking Oswald to Tippit's murder is strong and disputes Ruby's role as a major gangster, describing him as a 'dim, sad, pushy, unstable type.' The letter also discusses the neck wound in the JFK assassination, arguing it was likely an exit wound.

The discreet charm of relics

Rory Allen explores the psychological attraction to objects associated with famous people, questioning whether it stems from irrational beliefs about magical powers or a more fundamental psychological force. He uses examples of teenage girls collecting grass walked on by a Beatle and a man's excitement after being splashed by David Blaine's water. Allen suggests that advertisers and class snobbery also tap into this phenomenon and invites readers to share their thoughts and research findings.

An error spotted, and an apology from the Editors

Ray Ward points out an error in a previous issue where a review of Arlene Russo's 'Vampire Nation' was accompanied by a picture of a book by Thomas M. Sipos, which had the same title but was about Russia. The editors apologize for the mistake, attributing it to an error during the publication process.

Back Issues

This section provides a comprehensive list of past issues of The Skeptic magazine, detailing the articles published in each volume and issue from Volume 6 (1992) to Volume 19 (2006), along with subscription and back issue pricing information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Skeptic include skepticism towards extraordinary claims, particularly in the realm of 'free energy' and paranormal phenomena. The magazine consistently promotes scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and evidence-based analysis. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting a rational worldview, challenging pseudoscience, and exploring the psychological and historical underpinnings of belief systems, while also engaging with philosophical questions about discomfort, morality, and the nature of reality. The publication encourages reader participation through letters and discussions, fostering a community of critical inquiry.