Skeptical Eye - Vol 07 No 1 - 1993

Magazine Overview

This issue of the National Capital Area Skeptical Eye, Vol. 7, No. 1, published in 1993, features a variety of articles focusing on skepticism, critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscientific claims and scams. The cover story, 'Hollow Words' by Chip Denman, explores the historical Koresh cult and its founder Cyrus Reed Teed, drawing parallels to the modern Koresh.

Hollow Words: The Koresh Cult

Chip Denman's article delves into the life and teachings of Cyrus Reed Teed (1839-1908), who adopted the name 'Koresh' and founded the Koreshan Unity. Teed preached a unique cosmology, including the concept of a hollow Earth approximately 8,000 miles in diameter with a golden rind, where humans live on the inside. This model placed Earth at the center of the universe, making God knowable. His work, 'The Cellular Cosmogony or Koreshan Astronomy,' is described as a 'jumble of freewheeling biblical interpretation' and diagrams. Teed criticized established science, including Copernicus and Darwin, and also figures like Tesla and Schiaparelli, arguing that scientific ideas based on hypothesis were not true science. The article notes that Teed's community, established in Estero, Florida, attracted many female disciples and that his influence waned after his death in 1908, leading to the eventual splintering of the cult.

Denman draws a parallel to the modern Koresh (Vernon Howell/David Koresh) in Waco, Texas, suggesting that the modern figure may have been influenced by the original Koresh's teachings. The article highlights Teed's conflict with society, including a lawsuit for fraud and his wife's abandonment, and the eventual political shift of his community that led to a physical altercation and his death.

Letters to the Editor

Toni Tumonis writes a letter to the editor expressing concern that analytically minded women might be skeptical of 'skeptics' due to past experiences with prejudice and discrimination in male-dominated fields. She suggests that the skeptical movement needs to prove it is genuinely open-minded and not prone to prejudging individuals based on sex, age, or race. Tumonis argues that true skeptics should challenge each other and avoid becoming 'posers' who merely parrot popular skeptical responses. The editor's note clarifies that NCAS has historically included women in its leadership.

Prez Sez: Past Lives

Chip Denman, the outgoing president of NCAS, reflects on the organization's founding in 1987 and its growth into an internationally recognized voice for science and reason. He expresses pride in the contributions of members and the success of the Skeptical Eye newsletter. Denman announces his stepping down as president, with Joe Himes taking over, and notes that the newsletter is also undergoing a transition with the departure of editor Lys Ann Shore.

News Release: Verdict in Byrd v. Randi Trial

This section reports on the outcome of a federal jury trial in Baltimore where parapsychologist Eldon Byrd sued James Randi for over thirty million dollars. Byrd claimed injuries to his reputation and mental anguish. The jury found Randi's statements defamatory but awarded Byrd no compensation. The article details that Byrd had been arrested for possession with intent to distribute obscene materials and admitted to a sexual relationship with a minor. It also mentions Byrd's association with Uri Geller, who has also had legal disputes with Randi. James Randi is highlighted as an author and a leading critic of paranormal and supernatural claims.

Special Report: New Developments in Parapsychology: Ganzfeld and Autoganzfeld Experiments

Ray Hyman critically examines a paper by Daryl Bem and the late Charles Honorton submitted to the Psychological Bulletin, which reviewed ganzfeld and autoganzfeld experiments. Bem claimed that these experiments demonstrated psi. Hyman notes that Bem was not involved in the experiments themselves, which were conducted by Honorton and colleagues. He emphasizes the need for independent replication, as the 11 autoganzfeld experiments were all performed in the same laboratory with the same equipment. Hyman points out that significant results were only found for dynamic targets, not static ones, and questions the claim of replication based on the original ganzfeld experiments. He advises patience and calls for independent verification before accepting the conclusion that psi has been demonstrated.

The article includes a definition of 'ganzfeld' as a state of homogeneous visual field used in parapsychology experiments to reduce sensory distractions and enhance the possibility of ESP. It distinguishes between standard ganzfeld experiments and autoganzfeld experiments, where target selection and scoring are automated.

Dangerous Diversions: Three Card Monte

Jamy Ian Swiss, a professional magician and NCAS board member, exposes the workings of the Three Card Monte scam. He explains that the game, which has existed for over 140 years, is not a game of chance but a 'game of no chance' designed to defraud victims. Swiss details the psychological manipulations, the role of accomplices ('shills') who pretend to win, and the dealer's sleight-of-hand techniques, particularly the 'hype' or secret toss. He describes how the dealer can invisibly switch cards, making it impossible for the victim to follow the 'money card.' The article highlights the importance of the 'why' – the theatrical presentation and psychological pressure – over the 'how' of the trick. Swiss also mentions the involvement of 'spotters' who watch for law enforcement and the use of 'Monte mobs' in cities like New York. He contrasts professional magicians, who are upfront about deception, with Monte operators who rely on deceit.

Swiss further explains the mechanics of the scam, including how the dealer uses bent cards and a subtle toss to create the illusion of a fair game. He details how shills are used to create a false impression of winning and how the operator gains the victim's confidence, sometimes by appearing to be resistant to a bet. The article notes that the scam is often run by organized groups and that even law enforcement has difficulty making arrests due to the elusive nature of the operators and shills.

There Ought to Be a Law

This section discusses the legal challenges in prosecuting street scams like the Three Card Monte. While public gambling laws exist, proving dishonesty to charge larceny is difficult. Authorities sometimes train agents to demonstrate the scam's workings, but operators must be caught with the cards and money in hand. Arresting shills is also problematic, as they can claim to be innocent bystanders. Spotters also pose a threat by alerting operators to police presence. The article suggests that visible police presence and public education are the best deterrents, but acknowledges that these games are persistent and likely to continue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific skepticism, and the debunking of pseudoscience and fraudulent claims. It provides detailed analyses of phenomena ranging from historical cults to modern scams and parapsychological research, emphasizing evidence-based reasoning and the importance of independent verification. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rationalism and against the acceptance of extraordinary claims without rigorous proof. The publication also addresses issues of fairness and inclusivity within the skeptical community.

Title: Skeptical Eye
Issue: Vol. 7, No. 1
Date: 1993
Publisher: Skeptical Inquirer
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Skeptical Eye, dated 1993, focuses heavily on the intersection of science, law, and pseudoscience, with a prominent cover story titled "Blinded Justice: Weird Science in Court" by Walter F. Rowe.

Blinded Justice: Weird Science in Court

The lead article by Walter F. Rowe critiques the acceptance of questionable expert testimony in malpractice and product liability cases, arguing that it leads to increased costs for consumers and manufacturers withdrawing valuable products. The author highlights the ongoing litigation over the antinausea drug Bendectin, specifically the U.S. Supreme Court case *Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals*, which questions the admissibility of expert testimony based on the *Frye* standard. The article details the testimony of plaintiff's expert Dr. Alan K. Done, whose claims were characterized as "deliberately false" and "lies" by a federal judge. It also discusses the problematic testimony of Australian physician William McBride, who claimed credit for alerting the world to thalidomide's teratogenic effects but was later faulted for methodological flaws and scientific misconduct.

The article explains the *Frye* rule, which requires scientific evidence to be generally accepted in its field, and contrasts it with the more lenient relevancy standard. It notes that the *Frye* hearings can be lengthy and costly, and that admissibility rulings in one jurisdiction are not binding in others, leading to forum shopping. The author uses DNA profiling as an example of a scientific technique that has faced inconsistent admissibility rulings.

Two criminal cases are presented as examples of "junk science" in court: the Jack Kirschke murder case, where a firearms examiner's testimony about bullet trajectories and postmortem lividity was questioned, and the *United States v. Glendon Forbes, Jeffrey Penkala and Christian Martensen* case, involving the definition of "blotter acid" and the testimony of Dr. Edward George Brown.

Pathological Science and Legal Reform

A sidebar defines "pathological science" using six symptoms identified by Nobel laureate Irving Langmuir, including effects produced by barely detectable agents, claims of great accuracy, and fantastic theories contrary to experience. The article suggests that judges need to recognize these characteristics.

Recommendations for reining in "junk science" are presented, including the "English rule" where losers pay legal fees, and the proposal that judges should more closely scrutinize expert credentials and ensure their opinions align with generally accepted theories. The article cautions that even peer-reviewed publications can contain pathological science and that judges should dismiss unpublished studies like Dr. Done's.

Unorthodox Medicine: Homeopathy

Alfred Baer, M.D., contributes an article examining homeopathy, tracing its origins to Samuel Hahnemann in the late 18th century. Baer explains the principle of "like cures like" and criticizes the extreme dilutions used in homeopathic remedies, suggesting that any perceived success is likely due to a placebo effect. He notes that while homeopathic organizations have historically opposed rigorous testing, a 1988 experiment in France using dilute opium, radish extract, and a placebo for abdominal pain showed similar responses in all groups.

The article also discusses the growing popularity of homeopathy in the U.S., despite potential dangers of delaying proper care for serious illnesses. It mentions the controversy surrounding Jacques Benveniste's research on dilute IgE, which was attacked for methodological flaws.

Americans Try Out "Alternatives"

This section reports on a survey published in the New England Journal of Medicine regarding the use of alternative medicine in the U.S. The survey found that about 10 percent of Americans consulted alternative practitioners, while 30 percent used some form of unconventional therapy, often without informing their doctors. Back problems, anxiety, and headaches were common reasons for seeking alternative treatments. The majority of these treatments were not covered by health insurance and were undertaken without a doctor's recommendation.

From Grimoires to Success Books

Richard A. Dengrove draws parallels between ancient grimoires (manuals for conjuring demons) and modern "success books" aimed at financial gain. Both genres, he argues, claim a false pedigree and rely on a form of "magic"—cosmic hierarchy for grimoires and the power of the mind for success books. Dengrove contends that neither genre provides sound proof for its claims, with grimoires relying on authority and success books on endorsements and anecdotal examples.

Vault Update

This brief section mentions a new search for a supposed "vault of many writings" attributed to Sir Francis Bacon, this time focusing on Oak Island, Nova Scotia. Theories about the tunnels found there range from Sir Francis Drake to UFO bases.

Just Joking

A short piece recounts an incident where Western Maryland College allegedly sent out a brochure with a suggestion for students to send letters promising good luck for a small donation, which the college later claimed was a joke.

Concerned about Crime? Relax, the Maharishi Is on the Job

This article discusses the Transcendental Meditation (TM) movement's efforts to promote a "crime-free Washington D.C." through TM training. It highlights a $25,000 advertising campaign and a proposal to allot $6 million for TM training for youths, with claims of reducing crime by 20 percent. The TM organization also put up $4.2 million for a pilot study.

A Skeptic's Response

This feature provides brief, logical answers to questions from readers. The main response addresses homeopathy, reiterating the criticisms of extreme dilutions and the placebo effect.

Baltimore Radio Program on Pseudoscience Recognized for Excellence in Science Journalism

This news item reports that a documentary titled "Pseudoscience: On the Edge of Reason," which focused on claims from Robert Jahn's PEAR Laboratory, water-dowsing, and astrology, received the AAAS-Westinghouse Science Journalism Award.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the critical examination of claims and practices that lack scientific rigor, particularly when they enter the public sphere through legal systems, alternative medicine, or popular culture. The Skeptical Eye consistently advocates for evidence-based reasoning, scientific methodology, and critical thinking. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of pseudoscience, quackery, and the uncritical acceptance of unverified claims, especially when they have significant societal implications, such as influencing legal judgments or public health decisions. The magazine promotes the importance of rigorous scientific standards, peer review, and the careful scrutiny of expert testimony in legal proceedings.

Title: Skeptical Eye
Issue: Vol. 7, No. 1
Date: 1993
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the Skeptical Eye delves into various topics ranging from the philosophy of self-help and success books to investigations into scientific fraud and paranormal claims.

Articles and Features

The Philosophy of Success and Grimoires

The issue opens with a discussion differentiating "success books" from "grimoires." Success books are described as offering accepted magic that relies on worldly entities like business ownership and promotions to achieve wealth. In contrast, grimoires offer unaccepted magic, often involving demons, which is seen as unacceptable to mainstream society and potentially leading to damnation. The article notes that success books are rarely questioned due to their alignment with societal norms. A particular focus is given to the "New Thought" school of success, which emerged in the late 1890s and suggests that changing one's thoughts can lead to wealth. Authors like Norman Vincent Peale and Napoleon Hill are mentioned in this context, with "Think and Grow Rich" highlighted as a foundational text. The author suggests this school of thought borders on, and may have crossed, the line of scientific acceptance by positing that thoughts alone can create riches.

Remote Viewing: Weirdness by Mail

Elena M. Watson's column, "Remote Viewing," explores various items found in her "rotting heap of debris." This includes an advertisement for Edgar Cayce's Complete Readings available on CD-ROM for $500. Watson also discusses Jeff Levin, a professor of family medicine at Eastern Virginia Medical School, whose research on the link between spirituality and health has gained national attention. Levin's work, funded by a $350,000 NIH award, suggests a positive correlation between religiosity and health. While denying being "New Age," Levin's quotes about engaging "force, power or energy" through meditation lead Watson to question if his views lean that way. The column also touches upon the movie "Fire in the Sky," based on the alleged alien abduction of Travis Walton. UFO expert Phil Klass is mentioned as having investigated this case and concluded it was a hoax. The article notes the film's promotional efforts and the scriptwriter Tracy Torme's nuanced beliefs about UFOs and alien visitation.

The Weekly World News and Tabloid Culture

Watson also confesses a "secret shame": her enjoyment of the tabloid "The Weekly World News." She cites examples of its sensational headlines and mentions its origins as a spinoff from the National Enquirer. The article notes that the tabloid sells approximately 700,000 copies weekly, with a significant portion sold to a younger demographic. The editorial stance of the tabloid is described as avoiding lawsuits by not naming identifiable sources. The columnists Ed Anger, Dear Dotti, and Serena are mentioned, with a humorous anecdote about the assistant managing editor's "supernatural bond" with Dotti and Serena.

Update: Science Fraudbusters

This section reports on the activities of NIH investigators Walter Stewart and Ned Feder, who investigate science fraud. Their work includes investigating Nobel laureate David Baltimore and his former colleague Teresa Imanishi Kari, as well as historian Stephen B. Oates for plagiarism. Stewart and Feder faced repercussions from NIH, including the shutdown of their lab and transfer to different duties. Stewart even undertook a 33-day hunger strike to draw attention to their dispute with NIH. The article notes that officials from the Department of Health and Human Services indicated a willingness to discuss resolving the controversy.

National Capital Area Skeptics Financial Report

This issue includes the financial report for the National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS) for the year ending December 31, 1992. The report details the starting balance ($2,862), income from membership dues, interest, and book receipts ($5,948), and expenses for taxes, printing, telephone, postage, and program expenses ($5,381). The ending balance was $3,429. NCAS is noted as an organization exempt from Federal Income Tax under Section 501(c)(3).

Membership and Submission Information

Information is provided for readers interested in renewing or joining NCAS, with membership options for single ($20) and double ($30) memberships, and a full-time student rate ($10). Readers are also invited to submit articles, letters, and artwork for future publication in the Skeptical Eye, with guidelines on length and format.

The Last Word: Role Reversal

In the final section, "The Last Word," Lys Ann Shore announces the end of her term as NCAS newsletter editor. She is transitioning to a columnist role, while Elena Watson will take over as editor. This change is facilitated by modern technology like e-mail and faxes. Shore expresses gratitude to the contributors and encourages members to write for the newsletter. An apology is issued for a production schedule slip, and the upcoming issue is previewed to feature articles on dinosaurs, genetics, and creationism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptical Eye consistently promotes a critical and evidence-based approach to claims, as evidenced by its focus on scientific fraud, debunking paranormal phenomena (like the Travis Walton case), and scrutinizing self-help philosophies that lack empirical support. The publication encourages scientific literacy and active participation from its members in questioning and investigating extraordinary claims. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to inform and educate readers about the importance of critical thinking and scientific methodology in evaluating information.