Skeptical Eye - Vol 02 No 2 - 1988

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Newsletter of the National Capital Area Skeptics, Volume Two, Number Two, dated April 1988, focuses on the intersection of science, pseudoscience, and societal institutions, particularly the legal system and public perception.

Controversial Science in the Courtroom

The lead article, "Controversial Science in the Courtroom" by Julie Stern and D. W. "Chip" Denman, reports on a recent NCAS public symposium. Three speakers addressed the influence of pseudoscience in law enforcement and judicial proceedings. Walter Rowe, the moderator, emphasized the importance of this issue. Robert Hicks, a criminal justice analyst, discussed the discredited theory of "criminal stereotypes" popularized by Cesare Lombroso, which linked physical traits to criminality. Hicks cited examples of this theory being used in U.S. Army training and IRS publications, urging vigilance against its incorporation into official policy. He stated, "We must be vigilant to catch the demon of stereotype and call him by name."

UFOs and Errors of Observation

Guy Moore's article, "UFOs and Errors of Observation," offers suggestions for identifying Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) as Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) by considering appropriate conditions. Moore notes that Venus, when at its brightest, can appear as two bodies due to atmospheric conditions and optical illusions, an effect not dispelled by binoculars. He suggests that Saturn, particularly when bright, might explain some UFO sightings due to its elongated, tipped-saucer shape, though binoculars can sometimes create fuzzy images if out of focus. Moore also mentions the "Marfa Lights" in west Texas, describing their behavior and noting that while unidentified, they are likely atmospheric phenomena. The McDonald Observatory explains these lights as an atmospheric effect caused by light bending due to layers of cool air near the ground, making distant car headlights appear to come from the sky.

The Pinocchio Syndrome

Stephen R. Dujack's article, "The Pinocchio Syndrome," critically examines the polygraph test, questioning its scientific validity despite its widespread use in pre-employment screening and government security. Dujack notes that the polygraph, which measures physiological responses, has not been scientifically established as a reliable lie detector, with studies showing significant variances in accuracy. He highlights instances where polygraph tests have led to false accusations, including a cashier fired for giving her mother a discount and a man wrongly imprisoned for murder. Dujack points out that the FBI forbids polygraph 'dragnets' and the American Psychological Association prohibits its members from administering such tests. He argues that the polygraph functions more as an 'electronic scarecrow' for those who believe in it, and that foreign intelligence services likely train their agents to deceive it. The article concludes that the polygraph is not a solution for employee theft or the loss of national secrets.

President's Message

Stanley K. Bigman's "President's Message" touches on several topics. He commends the NCAS's recent symposium on controversial science in the courts and notes that CSICOP is planning a similar session. Bigman shares an item about Tom Weber seeking funding for a two-square-mile landing pad for flying saucers in Elmwood, Wisconsin. He also discusses the concept of 'perpetual motion' machines, referencing a U.S. District Court case where an inventor's claims about a device with greater energy output than input were rejected due to scientific principles.

Creationism Marches On

Under the "President's Message," Bigman also addresses the ongoing efforts of creationists. Despite a Supreme Court ruling against mandatory creationism in public schools, groups like Teen Mission U.S.A. are attempting to get 'creation science' books into school libraries, and Films for Christ is promoting creationist propaganda videotapes. The NCAS Committee on Science and Creationism is monitoring science textbook selections.

More Education Notes

This section highlights the Learning Annex, which offers classes in paranormal techniques such as channeling, aura reading, past life regression, and crystal healing. The article questions who benefits from these claims and whether belief in such topics is harmless.

NCAS Events: What Do YOU Want?

This section discusses upcoming NCAS events and solicits member input. Following the symposium on fringe science in the courts and a meeting on UFO abductions, the NCAS plans to host more events. They are seeking feedback on past events and suggestions for future topics and speakers to make NCAS a "consumer protection" resource.

Name-the-Newsletter Contest

An announcement for a contest to rename the NCAS Newsletter, seeking catchy and descriptive titles and logo ideas. The winner will receive a one-year membership extension.

The Skeptic's Bookshelf

Michael Hoffman reviews Richard Dawkins' "The Blind Watchmaker," praising its clear explanation of evolution by natural selection. Hoffman explains Dawkins' concept of 'cumulative selection' and how it counters the 'argument from design.' He highlights Dawkins' discussion of the human eye's functionality and its apparent design flaws as evidence against a conscious designer. The review emphasizes that the book is a strong defense of Darwinism and is accessible to those who misunderstand evolution.

Sean O'Neill reviews Stephen P. Kramer's "How to Think Like a Scientist." O'Neill notes Carl Sagan's concern that children are not taught how to think critically. Kramer's book aims to teach children to analyze everyday problems and logical fallacies. The review suggests the book is valuable for teaching children how to answer questions and encourages NCAS members to promote critical thinking.

Controversial Science

This section continues the discussion from page 1, focusing on Neil Hibler's presentation on hypnosis in the federal judicial system. Hibler explained that the federal model uses hypnosis strictly for developing investigative leads and never relies on hypnotically obtained information without corroboration. He stressed that hypnotic recall is not more reliable than ordinary memory and that hypnotized subjects can be biased or lie more easily. Hibler noted that federal agencies use hypnosis rarely, only as a last resort. He contrasted this with local and state law enforcement agencies, which may be more lax.

James E. Starrs, a professor of law and forensic sciences, discusses the prevalence of "scientific ersatz" in courts, particularly the acceptance of testimony from graphologists or grapho-analysts. Starrs distinguishes between trained document examiners and grapho-analysts, noting that the judicial system often fails to differentiate them. He cited examples of grapho-analytic attempts to characterize personality from handwriting, deeming them lacking in scientific validity.

Voices From the Skeptic Tank

This section features a humorous Q&A with "Naptha," a spiritual channel guide claiming to be 39,000 years old, channeled by Jamy Ian Swiss. Naptha offers skeptical commentary on various paranormal topics, including channeling, faith healing, psychokinesis, psychic surgery, crystal healing, and astrology, often with witty and pun-filled responses. Naptha dismisses astrology and humorously suggests phrenology for advice.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The NCAS Newsletter consistently promotes critical thinking and scientific skepticism. The issue emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine science and pseudoscience, particularly in legal and public policy contexts. It advocates for evidence-based reasoning and challenges claims lacking scientific validation, such as criminal stereotypes, polygraph testing, and certain paranormal phenomena. The newsletter also encourages public engagement with skeptical inquiry and education, particularly for children.