Skeptical Eye - Vol 06 No 3 - 1992

Magazine Overview

Title: National Capital Area SKEPTICAL EYE
Issue: Vol. 6, No. 3
Date: 1992
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 1063-2077

This issue of the Skeptical Eye, published quarterly by the National Capital Area Skeptics, focuses on critical examination of various claims, from political platforms to paranormal phenomena and media hoaxes.

Political Science: The Natural Law Party

The lead article by Chip Denman introduces the Natural Law Party (NLP) of the United States, which claims to offer "innovative, scientifically proven programs" to solve national problems. The party's presidential candidate, physicist Dr. John Hagelin, speaks of "practical, scientifically proven solutions." Key issues include education, revitalizing inner cities, reducing the national debt, and strengthening family values. The NLP was formed on April 20, 1992, in Fairfield, Iowa, home of Maharishi International University (MIU) and the headquarters of Transcendental Meditation (TM). Hagelin is on leave from his position as chairman of the Department of Physics at MIU, and the vice presidential candidate, Mike Tompkins, holds a doctorate in "Science of Creative Intelligence" from Maharishi European Research University. Party Chair Bevan Morris is described as "the world's foremost educator in the area of consciousness and natural law."

The article notes that the NLP's campaign literature is seductive, resembling mainstream political advertising. It highlights claims of multi-party support and a stance that is both "pro-life and pro-choice." The party suggests that government should function in an atmosphere "free from crime and stress." However, after eight pages of such content, the specifics are revealed: Transcendental Meditation is presented as the scientifically proven solution, with proposals to establish "coherence-creating" groups of meditators to foster national harmony.

A paid advertisement in the Washington Post is described as even slicker, omitting the TM connection but focusing on cutting government waste, controlling health costs, and finding a "cost-effective solution to crime." The NLP is not solely an American invention; over 300 candidates ran unsuccessfully in the British parliamentary election, and the party has been active in Israel.

A Nature article (Vol. 359, Sept. 10, 1992) is cited, stating that the NLP platform includes a plank requiring presidential candidates to demonstrate their worthiness by publicly sharing EEG brain scan results. Hagelin claims to have an "ordered" brain, in the top one percent of those tested, though it's unclear who conducted the tests or who the other 99 percent are. Brain researchers questioned by Nature state that EEGs reveal nothing about a person's morals or intelligence.

Further details from the platform include proposals for TM to be part of basic military training, meditation groups in prisons, tax breaks for colleges offering TM, and TM programs in public schools. The article suggests this resembles establishing a state-sponsored program for Eastern mysticism disguised as science. The NLP also promotes a national health care program focused on "prevention-oriented natural medicine" and the Maharishi Ayur-Veda system. An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Oct. 2, 1991) criticized the mystical practices of Ayur-Veda and promoters who misrepresented their financial ties to marketers.

The article concludes by noting that TM promoters have long published documents claiming scientific proof, including evidence of "yogic flying." However, the support from the scientific community for these claims appears to be minimal, as suggested by the Nature article. A toll-free number is provided for those interested in learning more about the Natural Law Party.

Letters

More on the Tarot: Richard A. Dengrove of Alexandria, VA, responds to a previous article by Seán O'Néill. He adds that Antoine Court de Gebelin (1725-84) was the first to associate the Tarot with ancient Egypt. Dengrove also references an article in the journal Gnosis, "The Unexamined Tarot" by Chas. S. Clifton, which traces the Tarot pack back to fifteenth-century Italy and suggests its imagery reflects a secular, upper-class view of life rather than teaching religious precepts to illiterates. Clifton also notes that the Tarot was no more likely used for divination than any other card deck.

The James Randi Fund

This section reports on the ongoing legal battle between Uri Geller and CSICOP. While Geller's suit against CSICOP was dismissed with sanctions, his suit against James Randi is still pending. Geller alleges that Randi made anti-Semitic statements, which those who know Randi find incredible and out of character. The article emphasizes that Randi needs support from skeptics to win these legal battles, noting that CSICOP has a separate legal fund. Contributions to the James Randi Fund can be sent to P.O. Box 659, El Cerrito, CA 94530.

The Price of Reason

CSICOP is continuing its "Price of Reason Campaign" for fundraising. Phase one funded the new headquarters complex, the Center for Inquiry. Phase two seeks $1.5 million for a 25,000-square-foot building to house production, warehousing, a media studio, library, and meeting rooms. Phase three aims to raise a $2 million endowment fund for operating expenses and special projects. Contributions are tax-deductible and can be mailed to The Price of Reason Campaign, Box 703, Buffalo, NY 14226-0703.

Prez Sez: The Asimov Seminars

By Chip Denman, this column reflects on the Asimov Seminars held at the Rensselaerville Institute. Denman, along with James Randi and Jamy Swiss, served as faculty for the four-day workshop. The seminars, which have run for 19 years, are described as a "family reunion" for participants interested in science and society. This was the first seminar since Isaac Asimov's death, but his enthusiasm and inspiration were evident. Denman discusses leading discussions on science, pseudoscience, dowsing, ESP, the media's gullibility, and the history of psychical investigation. He notes that the participants were highly motivated and that the faculty worked hard to stay involved. Denman's own thinking was catalyzed, leading to ideas for his class at the University of Maryland. NCAS is also planning a weekend retreat to sharpen critical thinking skills, inspired by Steve Shore.

Euroskeptics

By Grace Denman, this article recounts her experience at the second annual Italian skeptics conference (CICAP) and the fourth European conference (Euroskeptics) held in Saint-Vincent, Italy, from July 17-19, 1992. Despite initial travel difficulties, the Hotel Grand Billia proved to be a luxury accommodation. Denman highlights her conversations with fellow North American skeptics James Randi, Jim Alcock, and Ray Hyman, emphasizing the value of these friendships. The conference featured presentations on topics such as "Parapsychology: Hindsight Without Foresight" by Ray Hyman and "Psychokinesis: Power of the Mind or Figment of the Imagination?" by Jim Alcock. Denman notes the significant number of women attendees, more than at CSICOP conferences, and wonders why the skeptical movement is more male-dominated in the United States. She expresses that her primary pleasure came from meeting people from around the world and feeling part of a global community of skeptics.

Remote Viewing: Caution: Exploding Landfill!

By Elena M. Watson, this column discusses a hoax perpetrated by WNOR-FM 99 radio deejays on April 1, 1992. The deejays announced that the Mount Trashmore landfill was going to explode due to methane gas, warning residents to evacuate. The 911 lines were flooded, and many residents fled. The FCC is investigating the incident, and the deejays, along with other station staff, were suspended. Watson investigates the claim, consulting the Waste Management Division of the City of Virginia Beach, who confirmed that methane can explode but stated it's impossible at Mount Trashmore due to its open space and gas vents. Watson reflects on the media's focus on the ethics of the prank rather than the potential validity of the claim, and the public's tendency to react emotionally and trust ambiguous authorities. This leads her to draw a parallel with the Salem witch trials, where hearsay and gossip led to accusations without examination of reality.

Fields of Dreams

By Joel Parker, this article critiques a presentation on crop circles by Linda Moulton Howe at NASA-Goddard Space Flight Center. Parker found Howe's talk to be entirely credulous, discussing the history of crop circles and "cerealogists" without skepticism. Howe presented numerous photographs and videotapes, suggesting that the complex patterns were too sophisticated for human creation and thus likely the product of UFOs, supported by a witness's drawing of a spaceship. Howe also connected crop circles to livestock mutilations, human abductions, and diatonic musical scales. Parker notes that Howe dismissed claims by two individuals who said they made the crop circles as "obviously absurd." The audience's questions focused on when and where to see the circles, rather than questioning the evidence. Parker concludes that the crop circles are "extraordinary art" but not proof of UFOs, and that the audience's credulity was more striking than the phenomenon itself.

"Blood-sucking flying vampire women"

This brief news item reports on a rumor of a "manananggal" (a vampire that splits in half) terrorizing slums in Manila, Philippines. The story was widely circulated by the Philippine media, which interviewed self-identified "victims." A television crew even investigated rumors that an elderly woman was the vampire. The report notes that a skeptical Associated Press report by Robert H. Reid highlighted how the manananggal story drove real news, like the Philippine presidential election, from the headlines.

Censorship and Skepticism

By Steve Shore, this article addresses the issue of censorship in schools, specifically concerning fairy tales. In Frederick County, parents have complained to the school board that books in the Impression Books series (15 volumes published in 1984) promote the occult due to their inclusion of fairy tales about witches and magic. The article notes that this is the 56th school district to face such complaints, despite a California court ruling that the series was not intended to promote the occult. The campaign is sponsored by groups like the American Family Association and Focus on the Family. Shore argues that this is a problem for NCAS members because it represents a tactic used by determined extremists, similar to those who promote creationism. He quotes Clarence Darrow: "Fanaticism is forever busy, and needs feeding."

It's a Boy! It's a Girl! It's a Hoax!

This news item debunks the story of Edwin Bayron, a man in the Philippines who claimed to be six months pregnant. Bayron, who called himself "Carlo," was interviewed on the "Today" Show and featured in newspapers. It was later revealed that Bayron, a homosexual, invented the hoax to marry his 21-year-old lover. He claimed to be a hermaphrodite who had undergone surgery. The government offered to pay for the birth, but the hospital relied on a faked ultrasound and urine tests. Bayron has since disappeared.

A Skeptic's Response: Chain Letters: Newage Math

By Chip Denman, this feature provides a logical, mathematical response to chain letters. Denman analyzes a typical chain letter that claims to be sent by 20 people every 4 days. Using a chart, he demonstrates that if the chain remained unbroken, the number of copies would quickly exceed the world population. For example, by day 8, 20 copies would result in 26 billion copies. He calculates that if the chain has been active since 1953, the number of pieces would be astronomical. Denman suggests that for the process to continue, only about 1 in 20 recipients must follow the instructions. He compares chain letters to horoscopes, noting that while this particular letter is innocuous, similar mathematical deceptions have been used to justify more costly and insidious schemes, such as pyramid schemes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptical Eye consistently promotes critical thinking and scientific skepticism. The magazine debunks paranormal claims, exposes hoaxes, and scrutinizes pseudoscientific or pseudo-historical narratives. There is a strong emphasis on media literacy, highlighting how sensationalism and emotional appeals can override factual reporting and public discernment. The publication also engages with issues of censorship and the importance of defending intellectual freedom. The editorial stance is clearly aligned with scientific rationalism, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on evidence and logical reasoning. The magazine serves as a resource for skeptics, providing analysis and responses to claims that lack scientific support.

Title: Skeptical Eye
Volume: 6
Issue: 3
Date: 1992

This issue of Skeptical Eye delves into various phenomena and claims, examining them through a skeptical lens. It features articles on alternative healing, financial schemes, scientific integrity, and the evaluation of extraordinary claims.

"Light Water" Discovered in Mexico

The lead article discusses a phenomenon in the small Mexican village of Tlacote, where a local man named Jesus Chahin claims to have discovered water with healing properties. Chahin makes this water available to the public, with a limit of 2-1/2 gallons per person. Hundreds of thousands of people, many suffering from serious illnesses like AIDS and cancer, have reportedly lined up for the water. Chahin attributes the water's power to its "movements" between metal tanks and claims it weighs less than ordinary water, predicting that scientists will need billions of years to understand it. However, local health officials state the water is indistinguishable from other well water in the area and poses no health risks. Despite the lack of scientific validation, the "light water" has brought economic boom times to Tlacote, with vendors and local laborers profiting from the influx of pilgrims.

Pyramid Schemes and "The Airplane Game"

Another article warns about the dangers of "pyramid" investment schemes, which are often disguised as legitimate opportunities. The "Airplane Game" is detailed as a distinct New Age-flavored version, where participants pay $1,500 to become "passengers" and are encouraged to recruit new players. Participants adopt New Age code names and use group sessions for "empowerment." The scheme promises riches for early entrants but inevitably crashes for later participants due to the unsustainable growth required. The article notes that such schemes are illegal games of chance and are prosecuted by the U.S. Postal Service. A similar pyramid scheme had previously bilked students at the University of Maryland, where participation was deemed a misdemeanor.

Judging Science Fair Projects for NCAS

Walter Rowe, an NCAS board member and veteran science fair judge, outlines the criteria for evaluating projects for the NCAS Science Fair Prize. The focus is on projects that skeptically examine extraordinary claims, such as astrology, biorhythms, crystal power, and pseudoscientific phenomena. Key evaluation criteria include Creative Ability, Scientific Thought, Thoroughness, Skill, and Clarity. Judges are encouraged to identify projects that demonstrate originality, sound methodology, clear data analysis, and an understanding of the scientific literature. The article also notes that while some high school projects can be conventional, they often demonstrate sophisticated analytical skills, whereas middle school projects may be more imaginative but less conventional. The importance of sensitivity and tact when critiquing student projects is emphasized.

NCAS Prize Winners

This section lists the winners of the 1992 NCAS science fair prizes across various districts, including the District of Columbia, Fairfax County, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, and Prince William County. The winning projects cover a range of topics, from "Miracle or Thixotropy?" and "Effect of Moon Phase on Number of Crimes Committed" to "Replication of the St. Januarius Miracle" and "Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Radiation." Winners received books from authors like Ken Frazier, Martin Gardner, and James Randi.

Science Fraudbusters

A report on an NCAS program addressing fraud within the scientific community features scientists Walter Stewart and Ned Feder. They discussed their investigation into scientific fraud, including the notorious case involving Nobel laureate David Baltimore. Stewart and Feder identified characteristics of coauthors in fraudulent research, categorizing them as Type A (carelessness) and Type B (lack of candor). They highlighted the difficulty in detecting fraud, as it is a secret activity, and the challenges in establishing a system to police science. Stewart suggested that while cheating may not pose a long-term threat to science, it corrupts scientists in the short and medium term. He emphasized the need for public accountability, given that scientific research is largely funded by public money, and the importance of encouraging "good, creative science."

Siberian Faith Healing

A brief mention is made of a two-page photo essay in The Washington Post about Vladimir Merkushev, a faith healer in Siberia. Merkushev performs "operations" that include massage and seances, and uses a copper wand for "blessing" possessions. He claims to have inherited his healing gift from his father and possesses a "diploma" from a "faith healing institute."

Don't Miss the Return of Halley's Comet

This section highlights a sensational advertisement from London magazine City Limits claiming Halley's Comet had returned unexpectedly and "dislodged" from its usual orbit. The advertisement attributed this to an unnamed "Polish like Copernicus" astronomer and directed readers to the "Scientific Forecasts Society." The article implies this is a false alarm, likely based on misinterpretations or sensationalism.

Secrets of Skeptical Thinking

Joe Himes, an NCAS vice president, led a program on evaluating extraordinary claims. He presented methods for identifying stories worth investigating, focusing on those that are strange, subjective, and make explicit or implicit paranormal claims. Himes outlined a process for investigation: checking repeatability, considering objectivity, looking for predictions, gathering evidence, and verifying completeness. He warned against relying on personal observations and testimonials without careful analysis and cautioned against ad hominem arguments and jumping to conclusions.

The Last Word: Gauging the Price of Reason

Lys Ann Shore discusses CSICOP's major fundraising drive, questioning the necessity of a new headquarters facility. She reflects on the role of CSICOP and the Skeptical Inquirer in fostering a "skeptical movement" and supporting local groups like NCAS. Shore encourages a thoughtful approach to charitable giving, balancing the demands of various causes with the importance of supporting skepticism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical thinking, the evaluation of extraordinary claims, and the importance of scientific integrity. The Skeptical Eye consistently adopts a stance of skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, alternative healing practices, and fraudulent scientific activities, while promoting rigorous investigation and evidence-based reasoning. The magazine also highlights the role of organizations like NCAS and CSICOP in advocating for rational thought and educating the public.