Skeptical Eye - Vol 06 No 1 - 1991-1992

Magazine Overview

This issue of the National Capital Area Skeptical Eye, dated Winter 1991-92, Vol. 6, No. 1, is published by the National Capital Area Skeptics and focuses on critical examination of extraordinary claims and pseudoscience.

Saving Our Bacon?

This article by Elena M. Watson details an unusual event in Williamsburg, Virginia, where Marsha Middleton, a New Age Christian pastor, along with her husband Frank Flint and a friend, dug a large hole in the Bruton Parish churchyard. They were searching for manuscripts allegedly written by Sir Francis Bacon, which they believed would prove Bacon authored the Shakespeare plays and herald a new world order. Middleton's beliefs were influenced by Marie Bauer Hall, an 87-year-old Christian mystic. Hall claimed to have discovered the vault's existence by decoding a 1635 book by George Wither and inscriptions on tombstones. The article notes that the local parish and residents were not pleased with the unauthorized digging, especially as cremated remains are buried in the churchyard. The church initially considered authorizing a professional archaeological search but ultimately decided against it.

Debunking the Satanic Panic

Mike Epstein's article addresses the 'Satanic Panic,' a period of fear surrounding Satanic cults. He recounts a meeting where Officer Schmockworst of the Fireplug Police Department presented a dire view of the threat, citing books and warning of children being taught spells. Robert Hicks, author of 'In Pursuit of Satan,' and Dr. Randy Lockwood, a psychologist, offered a more rational perspective. Hicks pointed out that 'experts' often make a living from scare tactics and that many claims lack evidence. Lockwood, from the Humane Society, stated there was no evidence of the claimed millions of animal sacrifices by Satanist cults, attributing many incidents to neglect or other causes. Both speakers emphasized that investigating crimes should focus on the facts rather than the sensationalized 'Satanism' angle, which can lead to abuses of power and miscarriages of justice. The article draws parallels to historical scares like the communism scares of the 1950s, the Blood Libel, and the witch trials.

Remote Viewing: Aerobic Exercise for Eyeballs

Elena M. Watson writes about 'aerobic glasses,' a product advertised with pinhole lenses that claim to improve vision. She notes these ads often appear in mail-order catalogues. Watson connects these glasses to the Dr. William H. Bates' vision-improvement system, which claimed refractive errors were caused by 'strain' and could be cured through exercises like 'palming' and 'shifting.' The article explains that Bates's method is scientifically unsupported, as vision problems are typically caused by physical defects in the eye's shape or lens, and that Bates rejected the concept of accommodation. The Bates method, which had success in the past, has been revived by the New Age movement.

Maharishi's Message: Abandon the "Pool of Mud"!

This piece reports on the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's decision to officially abandon his decade-long effort to reduce crime and achieve world peace through transcendental meditation (TM) in Washington D.C. The TM movement closed its national office and moved its staff to Maharishi International University in Fairfield, Iowa. The article quotes the Maharishi advising people not to stay in the 'pool of mud' of the city. The move followed the failure to secure $20 million in government funding for their project. While many followers relocated, some planned to remain in the area.

Prez Sez: Help Wanted

Chip Denman, President of NCAS, outlines several needs for the organization. He calls for volunteers to help with the NCAS archives, which collect skeptical materials for interviews and research. He also requests assistance in recording and fact-checking predictions made by psychics for a 'Psychic Scorecard,' similar to one produced by the Bay Area Skeptics. Finally, he encourages participation as judges at local science fairs to support critical thinking in young students.

Elvis Sighted in Post Office

This brief note reports that the U.S. Post Office announced that Elvis Presley's likeness would appear on a postage stamp in 1993, despite a policy against living persons appearing on stamps.

Miraculous Appearance of James Randi

This section details two successful talks given by James Randi at the University of Maryland and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Randi demonstrated the 'blood' of San Gennaro, a substance that liquefies when shaken, and referred readers to a description in the journal 'Nature'.

Disease Is in Our Stars

This article critiques an astrological explanation for Alzheimer's disease presented in Dell Horoscope magazine. Daniel Heydon's article suggests that certain planetary alignments around ages 83-86, specifically the opposition of Neptune and the third Saturn return, could cause Alzheimer's. The article dismisses this as pseudoscience, noting that Alzheimer's affects people across a wide age range and is caused by factors unrelated to astrology.

Scientific Creationism

Steven N. Shore, an astrophysicist and founding member of Committees of Correspondence on Creation/Evolution, reviews the tenets of 'scientific creationism.' He explains that evolution, based on Darwin's theory of natural selection and the concept of entropy, is a fundamental scientific principle. Shore argues that creationism, often driven by religious fundamentalism, misinterprets scientific concepts and appeals to a young Earth. He highlights that evidence for evolution is found in geological stratification, radiometric dating, and astronomical observations like supernova neutrinos. Shore also addresses common creationist arguments, such as the complexity of life and the lack of transitional fossils, refuting them with scientific explanations and pointing out the flawed logic and selective use of data by creationists. He notes the creationist reliance on flood geology and the search for Noah's ark, as well as arguments based on the Earth's magnetic field and plate tectonics. The article concludes by discussing the biological argument about transitional forms and refuting claims about human footprints alongside dinosaur tracks.

Reality Check in the Field of Dreams

Don Oldenburg writes about Jeremy Taylor, a Unitarian minister and dream educator, and his experience with 'Senoi dream theory.' Taylor's life was changed by a dream where he confronted a dragon symbolizing his cigarette habit, leading to the cessation of his addiction. Senoi dream theory, named after a Malaysian aborigine tribe, is a practice that emphasizes confronting and utilizing dreams. It was popularized by Kilton Stewart's research in the 1930s and 40s, portraying the Senoi as a utopian society that integrated dreaming into daily life. However, the article notes that later research, including by Ann Faraday, has cast doubt on the anthropological basis and substantiation of Senoi dream theory.

As If They Didn't Have Enough Problems Already...

This brief report relays a Reuters news service story about residents in a remote Siberian village who reported seeing a 'giant green snake with the head of a sheep' patrolling their local lake. The creature was described as having the girth of a large tree trunk and being several yards long, with tracks resembling those of sleigh runners.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptical Eye consistently promotes critical thinking and scientific skepticism. The magazine actively debunks pseudoscience, paranormal claims, and unfounded fears, such as the Satanic Panic and astrological explanations for diseases. It champions scientific methodology, particularly in fields like evolution and cosmology, while critiquing creationist arguments. The publication also highlights the work of skeptics and organizations like NCAS in promoting rational inquiry and evidence-based understanding. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific evidence, logical reasoning, and a healthy dose of skepticism towards extraordinary claims, while also providing practical information for members and encouraging their participation in the organization's activities.

This issue of NCAS Skeptical Eye, published in Winter 1991-92, features several articles exploring the intersection of skepticism, fringe beliefs, and historical research. The magazine critically examines the Senoi dream theory, the controversial search for a Francis Bacon vault, and the skeptical writings of Reginald Scot.

The Senoi Dream Theory: Debunked but Persistent

The lead article, "Not until William Domhoff patched together a comprehensive debunking of the theory in his 1985 book, 'The Mystique of Dreams,' did the Senoi become something of an academic nightmare for dream researchers," details the controversy surrounding the Senoi dream theory. William Domhoff, a professor of psychology and sociology at the University of California, Santa Cruz, is presented as the primary figure who has challenged the authenticity of the Senoi dream practices. Domhoff's investigation revealed a lack of anthropological studies supporting the theory, other than that of Kilton Stewart. He contends that the Senoi did not talk excessively about dreams, teach dream techniques, or control their dreams, and that their dream content was typically filled with frustration and failure, "just like the rest of us." Domhoff's indictment is stark: "What is totally bogus about this is that Senoi don't do it...in any way, shape or form."

The article traces the origin of the theory to Kilton Stewart, described as an enigmatic "rogue intellectual." Stewart's "research" gained traction after his death in 1965. Domhoff speculates that Stewart, a "totally free spirit," may have exaggerated the dream theory out of a desire to provide a shamanistic approach for the troubled Western world, believing that each individual possesses their own shamanistic dream powers.

Despite Domhoff's exposé, the Senoi dream theory has persisted, particularly within the dream-work movement. Jeremy Taylor, author of "Dream Work: Techniques for Discovering the Creative Power in Dreams," continues to use Senoi techniques, believing they are "tremendously functional and real and true." Taylor attributes the decline of Senoi dream practices to government repression and disruption of traditional life in Malaysia. He aims to "rehabilitate" Stewart's reputation, asserting that the techniques work and can heal and transform waking experience.

Kilton Stewart's widow, Clara Stewart Flagg, remains an outspoken defender of the practice, stating that "hundreds and thousands of people are concerned, it is valid." She worked alongside Stewart for over 20 years, traveling the world and studying dream theories of primitive groups, including spending months with the Senoi. Now remarried to Allen Flagg, they conduct "Dream Education Workshops" and private dream-work sessions based on Senoi principles. Flagg emphasizes the healing potential of dreams, citing clients who claim relief from disorders like diabetes and arthritis, and dismisses Domhoff's critique as "nonsense," asserting, "I was there. Domhoff was never there."

Remnants of the theory appear unattributed in dream-work literature. Karen Paley, who wrote a chapter on erotic dreams, finds some Senoi techniques practical for helping with recovery from childhood sexual abuse. Stanley Krippner, editor of "Dreamtime & Dreamwork," is rethinking his position, calling the theory an "interesting example of something that is valid but not authentic."

Patricia Garfield, author of "Creative Dreaming," has also incorporated Senoi techniques into her work. Robert Dentan, an anthropologist who knew Stewart, humorously suggests renaming the theory the "modified American dream theory." Strephon Katlan Williams's "Jungian-Senoi Dreamwork Manual" uses Stewart's techniques as a "symbol for the intention of a community to make dream work the guiding basis for social, cultural and personal lives."

Rita Dwyer leads dream groups that, while not strictly Senoi techniques, share similarities in communal dream sharing. Carol Warner, a social worker, sees dream sharing as part of liberating the Western dream world, making dreams accessible to oneself and friends, a concept she links to Senoi elements. Robert Van Castle calls Senoi dream theory a "useful exaggeration with some marvelous fringe benefits," crediting it with the proliferation of dream groups. He suggests the core idea of dreams being a birthright and heritage derives from Stewart's storytelling.

Domhoff views Senoi dream theory as an "allegory about hopefulness and change," reflecting the "American can-do" spirit.

The Francis Bacon Vault Mystery

Another significant article details the ongoing search for a supposed "Francis Bacon Vault" in Williamsburg, Virginia. Marsha Middleton and Marie Bauer Hall are central figures in this pursuit. Middleton, who learned of the vault 15 years prior, believed 1991 was a significant year due to Mayan calendar prophecies predicting the end of the age of materialism and the beginning of spirituality. Her group, the "Ministry of the Children," sought to excavate the vault, leading to legal battles and court orders preventing trespassing on Bruton Parish Church property.

Despite a court order, Middleton and her companions conducted a second excavation on November 27, violating the order. Warrants were subsequently issued charging them with trespassing and destruction of church property. The group apparently left the state, and Middleton later issued an apology to the church.

Marie Bauer Hall, widow of Manly Palmer Hall (founder of the Philosophical Research Society), is credited as the originator of the vault theory. She claimed in 1938 that Bacon manuscripts were buried under the foundation of the first Bruton Parish Church. Hall used clues from tombstones and the writings of Bacon and Shakespeare to locate the site. While the original foundation was found, further digging by professional archaeologists was deemed necessary, with financial assistance from the Rockefeller family.

Surface tests conducted by John V. Milewski of Santa Fe in 1985-1987, sponsored by Hall's Veritat Foundation, supposedly indicated something large buried 20 feet below the original foundation. Milewski's telephone interview suggests an "increased electrical resistance" at that depth, pointing to a "10-foot cube."

The article questions how Sir Francis Bacon became associated with such "New Age nonsense." While some speculate he was an occultist or Rosicrucian, evidence is slim. His "natural magic" differed from esoteric philosophies, focusing on observation of nature. The claim of Bacon authoring the King James Bible is also disputed, noting that 47 scholars, not including Bacon, prepared the translation.

The supposed vaults are said to be Masonic in origin, but no U.S. Masonic lodge predates 1730, and the first Williamsburg lodge was established in 1750, nearly a century after the original Bruton Parish Church was built.

The article concludes by quoting Bacon: "man prefers to believe what he prefers to be true."

Reginald Scot: Sixteenth-Century Skeptic

Richard A. Dengrove's article examines Reginald Scot and his 1584 book, "Discovery of Witchcraft." Scot is praised for his intelligence, passion, and outspoken skepticism, which makes his work readable today. He is described as a skeptic who "bridged the gap between modern skepticism and an older skepticism."

Older skeptics, unlike modern ones who doubt beliefs contradicting science, doubted beliefs contradicting the Bible and Church fathers. Scot argued that belief in witches and magicians was impious because their attributed powers surpassed those of Christ and God. He also believed the "Age of Miracles has ended," citing St. Augustine, and thus saints no longer perform miracles, questioning how "poor old women and knaves" could perform wondrous feats.

Scot also argued that the Devil could not physically appear or attend a witch's sabbath. In his view, those who claimed to see the Devil were melancholics deluding themselves. He cited the canon law "Canon Episcopi," which denounced as illusory women's belief that they flew at night with a goddesslike woman.

Scot is also presented as a modern skeptic in his advocacy for "natural magic," which he saw as a pious pursuit to learn God's laws of nature through observation. This contrasts with skeptics like Agrippa Von Nettesheim, who emphasized faith in God due to the world's uncertainties. Scot's attitude resembles Paracelsus's search for earthly knowledge but without his occultism and visionary claims.

Scot doubted claimed "virtues" of gems, like healing properties, based on experience and logic, even though he had no theological reason to do so. He believed a murdered man's blood would bleed in the presence of his enemy, based on a friend's experience.

Magic tricks fascinated Scot, and he enthusiastically described various illusions. He viewed much witchcraft as trickery and "cozening," noting that would-be witches often hid their voices and practiced sleight of hand. He also enumerated reasons milk might fail to churn, including the dishonesty of the milkmaid.

The article notes that a 1665 edition of Scot's book included a section on conjuring fairies and demons, presented unskeptically. It also mentions that Scot promised a further section that was never published in his lifetime.

In summary, Scot's "Discovery of Witchcraft" straddles modern and older skepticism.

Dowsing Defined

A brief definition of dowsing is provided: "the use of a forked twig, brass rod, or other object to locate and obtain sources of money from individuals who believe that sources of water can be located and obtained through the use of a forked twig, brass rod, or other object."

The Last Word: An Eye on the Eye

In the concluding section, editor Lys Ann Shore reflects on the past year of publishing the Skeptical Eye. She notes changes in the newsletter, including an increase in page count from 12 to 16 pages, the use of recycled paper, and the resumption of the "Skeptic's Response" column. She also highlights regular reports from outside the Beltway, such as the "Remote Viewing" column and reports on mass hysteria and the "New Age vault."

Shore thanks the writers and members who contributed articles and those who worked behind the scenes, including Grace Denman (treasurer) and Steve Shore (reference librarian). She encourages readers to submit articles, letters, and artwork for future issues, specifying length requirements and submission methods.

The section emphasizes that by contributing time and talent, NCAS members have given the skeptical movement a "distinctive and independent voice."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of claims that lack scientific or empirical evidence, particularly within the realms of parapsychology, New Age beliefs, and historical interpretations. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk pseudoscience and promote critical thinking. The magazine actively seeks to provide well-researched articles that challenge unfounded beliefs, as evidenced by the detailed critiques of the Senoi dream theory and the Francis Bacon vault mystery. The inclusion of Reginald Scot's historical skepticism serves to underscore the long-standing tradition of critical inquiry. The publication encourages reader participation, reinforcing its role as a platform for the skeptical movement.