Skeptical Eye - Vol 08 No 1 - 1994

Magazine Overview

The National Capital Area Skeptical Eye, Vol. 8, No. 1, published in 1994, is dedicated to promoting critical thinking and scientific literacy. This issue includes an "In Memorium" for Elena Watson, a contributor whose wit and reason were valued. The magazine features articles on animal rights and science, the nature of statistics and probability, and the challenges of maintaining scientific literacy in the face of pseudoscientific beliefs.

In Memorium: Elena Watson

The issue opens with a tribute to Elena Watson, who passed away in March. The author, identified as J.H., remembers Watson as an optimist who actively pursued making the world better. Her wit and reason were evident in her contributions to the newsletter, particularly her "Remote Viewing" column, which challenged claims with clarity and humor. A eulogy from Bill Ruehlman of the Virginian-Pilot Ledger-Star is reprinted on page 23.

Must Animal Rights Be ‘Anti-Science’?

By Randall Lockwood, Ph.D.

Randall Lockwood addresses the question of whether the animal rights/animal protection movement is inherently anti-science. He challenges the portrayal of activists as uniformly ignorant or opposed to scientific methodology, citing the American Medical Association's "Action Plan" which uses terms like "anti-science" and "anti-intellectual" to describe them. Lockwood argues that the movement deals with issues of concern to many people and attracts scientists. He emphasizes that science is not value-free and that ethical positions on animal treatment are ultimately subjective judgments, not dictated by data alone. He also points out that the emotional approach used by animal rights advocates is mirrored by those who defend animal research, who often use emotional appeals involving sick children. Lockwood critiques the research community's assertion that Nazis were opponents of vivisection, calling it an incendiary and illogical argument. He also notes the use of celebrity spokespeople by both sides and the commercial aspects of animal research. The article concludes by suggesting that public skepticism towards science is growing, paralleling historical periods of rapid change, and that science needs to engage with other voices and disciplines to maintain its relevance and public trust.

Letters

One letter responds to a review of Aidan Kelly's book "Crafting: The Art of Magic." The writer acknowledges some points about Wiccan beliefs regarding the female deity and environmentalism but corrects historical inaccuracies. The letter traces Wiccan history directly back to Gerald Gardner in the late 1930s, explaining that prior to the mid-1950s, witchcraft was often persecuted, forcing practitioners into hiding and relying on oral tradition. The writer also discusses the historical context of the term "pagan" and the Malleus Maleficarum, a 1496 publication used to identify and prosecute witches.

Another letter, signed by Jason Rodgers, addresses the correlation between Wicca and Satanism, calling it a common mistake born of ignorance. He states that Wicca's highest law is to "Do what will bring happiness and fulfillment as long as by doing so, you bring harm to no one," which he contrasts with Satanism.

The editor's note clarifies that Maleus Maleficarum was a guide for witch-hunting and that a fundamental principle of modern Satanism, as outlined by Anton La Vey, is to "do whatever you feel like doing as long as you do not harm anyone."

Prez Sez (President's Message)

By Joe Himes

Joe Himes, President of NCAS, discusses initiatives in memory of Elena Watson. NCAS will donate material to her local library in Norfolk and establish a new feature in the Skeptical Eye to review reporting on extraordinary claims. He invites readers to suggest names for a "Skeptics' Corner" or "Thinkers' Toolbox" collection.

Skeptic's Bookshelf

NCAS plans to create a collection of books and periodicals emphasizing the positive aspects of skepticism. Contributions in Elena's memory will be used to purchase materials not already available in the library, with a special mention of Norfolk being Edgar Cayce country.

Feature on Reporting

This new feature aims to improve the quality of reporting on extraordinary claims, focusing on care and context rather than sensationalism. It will highlight examples of both good and bad reporting submitted by readers, drawing parallels to past events like the weeping statues of St. Mary and recovered memories. The goal is to establish fair and reasonable standards for reporters, similar to Elena Watson's efforts.

Editors / Writers

An appeal is made for contributions to the Skeptical Eye, seeking help with editing, writing, and production to maintain high standards.

By The Numbers: Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics

By Chip Denman

Chip Denman, a statistician, explores the nature of statistics and probability, emphasizing that measurement alone is insufficient; understanding lies in comparing measurements and their uncertainty. He explains that statistics embraces uncertainty and is crucial in scientific inquiry. Denman notes that introductory statistics courses often leave students confused and that terms like "correlations" and "margins of error" are common in everyday language but can have precise mathematical meanings. He provides examples from a newspaper illustrating different uses of probability and statistics, from job generation forecasts to astrological predictions.

Denman clarifies his role as a statistician is to be a professional skeptic, asking tough questions about data and its source. He outlines the classic statistical paradigm involving hypotheses, data analysis, and probability evaluation. He also discusses the expansion of statistical methods, including graphical and computer-intensive approaches, which help overcome human intuition's fallibility in evaluating likelihoods and coincidence.

The article delves into different interpretations of probability: the classical approach (ratio of favorable outcomes to total outcomes), the relative frequency interpretation (limiting value of repeated experiments), and the subjective interpretation (degree of belief). Denman states that in practice, the interpretation often matters less than the numbers themselves.

He presents the "Birthday Problem" as an example of how intuition can be misleading, explaining that in a group of 23 people, there's a greater than 50% chance of a shared birthday. He also touches upon the "two children problem" and the number of people needed for a 50% chance of a shared birthday (23).

Denman concludes by stating that these simple puzzles help quantify real-life coincidences and that even elementary arithmetic can slow down hasty conclusions. He notes that he discussed probability rather than statistics, admitting to a slight misdirection.

Rants from the Underground: What We Say ... and What They Hear

By Steve Shore

Steve Shore recounts an experience with a student named D., who, despite excelling in a stellar astronomy course for non-science majors, held pseudoscientific beliefs. D. questioned the loss of the Mars Observer satellite, claiming it was destroyed to hide the truth about the "Face on Mars," and discussed anti-gravity propulsion systems and flying saucers based on information from "Nexus" magazine. Shore expresses dismay that his teaching, which emphasized the physical basis of science and historical context, did not prevent D. from embracing these ideas. He notes that D. received an 'A' in the course, leading him to believe he understood the material, and plans to become a teacher.

Shore discusses this with an adjunct professor who teaches high school physics. The professor was unconcerned, believing that antigravity might exist and that D.'s ability to solve problems indicated understanding. This highlights a disconnect between passing exams and truly grasping scientific principles. The article suggests that this disconnect contributes to the rise of pseudoscientific beliefs, citing examples of engineers at the Institute for Creation Research and computer scientists who are geocentrists.

The article concludes with an anecdote about a friend at Kennesaw State College whose class trip to the Fernbank Planetarium was overshadowed by a similar discussion about the "Face on Mars."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptical Eye consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific literacy, and a healthy skepticism towards extraordinary claims. The magazine advocates for rigorous evidence-based reasoning and challenges pseudoscience, misinformation, and flawed logic. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of accurate reporting and education in science. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry and against the uncritical acceptance of unsubstantiated beliefs, while also acknowledging the need for science to engage with the public and address ethical concerns.

This issue of Skeptical Eye, Vol. 8, No. 1, published in 1994, presents a collection of articles and news items focused on skepticism, science, and the debunking of pseudoscience and hoaxes. The magazine covers a range of topics, from critiques of academic trends to investigations of alleged paranormal events and the promotion of scientific literacy.

Barney Satanic Panic a Hoax

This article details a hoax perpetrated by John Bunch Jr., a psychology graduate student, who posed as Luscious M. Bromley to spread a false alarm that the children's character Barney the dinosaur was a tool of the devil, promoting Satanism and witchcraft. The hoax gained traction with media outlets like the Associated Press and CNN. Bunch's motive was to test media gullibility and gain publicity for his comedy duo. The article also notes a similar warning from Rev. Joseph Chambers of Charlotte, N.C., though Chambers expressed skepticism about the extreme claims. Bunch's downfall came when he and his partner, David J. Bennett, were recognized on television.

Higher Superstition: The Academic Left and its Quarrels with Science

This section reviews the book "Higher Superstition" by Paul R. Gross and Norman Levitt, which critiques the 'Academic Left' – a body of thought prevalent in university humanities departments. The book argues that this viewpoint, which posits culture as relative and science as merely a product of Western civilization, undermines scientific objectivity. The review highlights examples of academics misinterpreting scientific concepts, such as Stanley Aronowitz's flawed understanding of quantum mechanics. The authors of "Higher Superstition" suggest that the 'Academic Left' attacks science as a means to overthrow Western society, linking this to the rise of political correctness. The reviewer, Rob Pike, finds the book educational and funny, offering arguments against such intellectual muddleheadedness.

Remote Viewing: Aliens Among Us

This piece by Lys Ann Shore discusses an exhibition of representational sculptures that depicted fragments of alien armor, purportedly from a "crash site" in Roswell, New Mexico. Shore explores the question of why these nonexistent alien representations are easily recognizable, attributing it to a cultural consensus built over decades of science fiction. Artists, by drawing on cultural elements, can give form to fantasy and create recognizable depictions of the imaginary. The article suggests that art can serve as an iconographic probe of society and a way to make pseudoscience more palatable.

Return to Sender, Address: The Unknown

This short item recounts a peculiar incident involving J.B. Rhine, the 'Father of Parapsychology,' who had been deceased for 13 years. A letter Rhine himself had sent in 1967 to a friend in Germany was returned unopened in late December 1993, with a postmark from Zurich, Switzerland. The incident, deemed 'weird' and 'spooky,' occurred despite Rhine's actual letter complaining that parapsychology was taken more seriously in the USSR than in the U.S.

Professional Scientists, Move Over. Here Come the Amateurs

This news release from the Society for Amateur Scientists (SAS) introduces a new nonprofit group aiming to challenge the traditional monopoly of scientific research held by 'Ivory Tower' professionals. SAS, founded by physicist Shawn Carlson, believes that everyday people can make significant scientific discoveries with proper support and networking. The article cites examples of amateur discoveries, including animal tracks, supernovae, prime numbers, and a NASA satellite calibration error. It also highlights the success of Augusto and Kayla Odone in developing a treatment for ALD. SAS plans to launch national research programs and collaborate with professionals to mentor amateurs. The article also mentions John Lighton, an assistant professor of biology, and Forrest Mims III, a leading ozone scientist, who support SAS's mission.

Skeptic Magazine / Society

This section provides information about Skeptic magazine and The Skeptics Society, founded by Dr. Michael Shermer. The magazine, a quarterly publication, has featured articles from prominent skeptics and covers themes like 'Fad Psychology' and 'Holocaust Deniers.' The Skeptics Society organizes lectures and educational events, aiming to promote public understanding of science, magic, and skepticism. Membership includes a subscription to Skeptic magazine.

Skeptical Inquirer

This brief notice describes Skeptical Inquirer (SI) as a long-standing resource for skeptics, publishing scholarly articles and current events. SI is the official journal of CSICOP and is increasing its publication schedule from four to six times a year starting in 1995.

1994 CSICOP Conference

This is a detailed program for the 1994 CSICOP Conference, themed "The Psychology of Belief," held in Seattle, Washington, from June 23-26. It lists numerous sessions, moderators, and panelists covering topics such as Alien Abductions, The Belief Engine, UFOs, Anomalies of Perception, Memory, Influencing Beliefs In The Courtroom, and Conspiracy Theories. Notable speakers include Paul Kurtz, John Mack, Ray Hyman, Elizabeth Loftus, Carl Sagan, and Phil Klass. The program also includes details on registration, luncheons, and an awards banquet.

Investigation of “Roswell Crashed Saucer” Claims Launched by Respected Congressional Agency

This article, reprinted from Skeptics UFO Newsletter, reports on an official investigation launched by the U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO) into claims that the U.S. Government recovered a crashed flying saucer and ET bodies in New Mexico in 1947. The investigation was requested by Congressman Steven H. Schiff, who sought an explanation from the Department of Defense and the National Archives regarding the handling and disposition of records related to the incident. The article notes that the GAO's objective is to review policies and procedures, not to determine if a crash occurred. It also mentions that some UFOlogists are critical of the GAO's limited scope and that Philip J. Klass, the author, predicts Congressman Schiff may regret his involvement.

Followup from SUN #26 and #27

This section provides a follow-up on the GAO investigation into the Roswell incident, clarifying that Congressman Schiff's request was for an accounting of government records and procedures, not a determination of whether a crash occurred. It reiterates the GAO's objective to review policies and procedures for record stewardship. The section also includes several points raised by Phil Klass regarding the Roswell incident, such as disputes over the crash location, the refusal of one individual to allow analysis of alleged debris, and the lack of recovered materials appearing in subsequent technological advancements. Klass now sends his newsletter to the GAO.

Our Lady of Akita

This item discusses the alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Akita, Japan, which the National Canonical Commission of Inquiry declared "paranormal" rather than "supernatural." A Japanese nun, Sr. Agnes Sasagawa Katsuko, reported a statue shedding tears and Mary warning of a "heavy chastisement." Bishop John Shojiro Ito initially authorized these events as authentic in 1984. However, a later canonical inquiry suggested the occurrences were due to Sr. Agnes's "ectoplasmic influence" and her subconscious capacity to make her own tears and blood appear on the statue.

Watchful Eye

This section features two brief items. The first discusses an advertising flyer for a "Health Cup" from Singapore, which claims to comply with World Health Organisation requirements for toxic metals after storing water. However, the data shows the cup neither adds nor removes anything from the water, suggesting the claims are unsubstantiated. The second item is an advertisement from Sharper Image asking, "Can copper help your arthritis?" (ad for copper bracelets).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue of Skeptical Eye is the critical examination of claims that lack scientific evidence or are based on pseudoscience, hoaxes, or flawed reasoning. The magazine actively promotes scientific literacy and critical thinking, challenging beliefs that range from the paranormal and UFO cover-ups to academic trends that undermine scientific objectivity. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a strong advocacy for evidence-based reasoning and scientific methodology. The publication serves as a platform for disseminating information that debunks popular myths and promotes a rational worldview.

Title: Skeptical Eye
Issue: Vol. 8, No. 1
Date: 1994
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Skeptical Eye features reporting from the annual NCAS workshop held in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. The cover story, "Past Life Reporting," by Curtis Haymore, details his experiences and observations from the workshop, which focused on "Communicating Skepticism."

NCAS Workshop in Harpers Ferry

Curtis Haymore recounts his attendance at the NCAS workshop with his wife, Robbyne. He expresses a personal goal of becoming more influential in discussing skepticism with his New Age-infatuated siblings. The workshop brought together skeptically-minded individuals for a weekend of discussions, presentations, and social activities.

Friday Evening Activities

The event began on Friday evening with a gathering at the Cliffside Inn bar, where participants shared stories and looked forward to the weekend's sessions. Past attendees recounted experiences, including a "ghost walk" and tales of the early days of NCAS.

Saturday Workshops and Presentations

Saturday's sessions included:

• Randy Lockwood of the Humane Society provided advice on working with the press and electronic media, emphasizing the importance of deadlines and news value.
• Jamy Ian Swiss, a conjurer, presented on spiritualism, noting that modern incarnations of such phenomena often echo earlier trends, requiring continuous debunking.
• Elena Watson, editor of The Skeptical Eye, discussed effective letter writing and media engagement, sharing examples of successful responses to local media coverage of topics like fire walking, UFOs, and homeopathy. She highlighted a case where a newspaper juxtaposed a report of a UFO sighting with a notice of a bright Venus, indicating skepticism even in reporting.
• Seán O'Néill, a therapist, offered strategies for discussing skepticism with friends and colleagues without alienating them. He categorized people's paranormal attitudes into the genuinely ignorant, emotionally damaged, intellectually challenged, and cosmologically rigid, and advised maintaining one's own perspective.

Saturday Evening and Sunday Morning

Saturday evening featured a group dinner at The Anvil restaurant, followed by a magic show by Jamy Ian Swiss, with Elena Watson and John Pickel assisting.

Sunday morning involved role-playing exercises based on Seán O'Néill's methods for responding to people's beliefs, with participants practicing in groups.

Concluding Discussion

The meeting concluded with a discussion on broadening NCAS's influence. Suggestions included providing reporters with information, developing short courses on investigating claims, and creating curricula for journalism schools. Becky Long of the Georgia Skeptics shared their success in preparing press releases that provided a "report card" to the media.

Eulogy for Elena Watson

This section features a heartfelt eulogy for Elena M. Watson, written by Bill Ruehlmann, Book Columnist for the Virginian-Pilot Ledger-Star. The eulogy paints a portrait of Elena as a witty, rational, and fiercely independent thinker.

• Wit and Humor: Elena was known for her sharp, often humorous, observations, such as her comment on Bigfoot droppings and her perspective on UFOs and the vastness of the universe.
• Rationality and Skepticism: She was described as "fiercely rational" and an "inveterate enemy to unexamined opinion, superstition and smugness." She saw truth as a sword against deception, citing psychic hot lines as an example of victimization.
• Personal Struggles: The eulogy touches upon her battle with muscular dystrophy, which she faced with resilience and a refusal to whine.
• Intellectual Pursuits: Elena had a degree in psychology and wrote a book titled "Television Horror Movie Hosts," documenting low-budget horror films. She appreciated their energy and creativity.
• Appreciation for Flair: She favored performers and films with "flair" over production values, citing Peter Lorre as a favorite actor.
• Love for Husband: Her greatest love was her husband, John S. Pickel.
• Legacy: Elena passed away at 36, leaving behind an "extraordinary example of enduring wit and stubborn dignity."

The Electric Skeptic

This section announces the launch of "The Skeptic Tank BBS," an online forum designed to provide an electronic space for NCAS members and the public to discuss skepticism. It offers a platform for sharing information, bulletins, newsletters, and details about upcoming events. Users can access the BBS by calling 703-471-8562 with their modem set to 2400-N-8-1-Full. Questions can be directed to Chris or Maggie at 703-904-1788.

Electronic Directory

An electronic directory lists key NCAS personnel, including:

• Joe Himes, president
• Mike Epstein, v.p./print archives
• Gary Stone, secretary/AV archives
• Grace Denman, treasurer

It also lists other board members with their corresponding email addresses.

Randi Legal Fund

Contributions to the James Randi Fund are solicited to help cover legal costs incurred by James Randi in fighting lawsuits, particularly those brought by Uri Geller. Donations can be sent to The James Randi Fund at 142 West 49th Street, Suite 12H, New York City, NY 10019.

Membership and Contributions

The issue includes a renewal form for NCAS membership, with options for single and double memberships, and a section for "In Search of:" where NCAS seeks suggestions for future event facilities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the promotion and practice of skepticism, particularly in engaging with media, debunking paranormal claims, and fostering critical thinking. The NCAS, through its workshop, publications, and online forums, actively works to educate the public and counter misinformation. The editorial stance is one of rational inquiry, evidence-based reasoning, and a commitment to challenging pseudoscience and unsubstantiated claims, while also honoring individuals who embody these principles, as seen in the eulogy for Elena Watson.