Skeptical Eye - Vol 17 No 1 - 2005

Magazine Overview

Title: National Capital Area SKEPTICAL EYE
Issue: Vol. 17, No. 1
Date: 2005
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics

This issue of the Skeptical Eye, dated 2005, is dedicated to exposing scams, fakes, and frauds, with a particular focus on how to avoid being taken in by them. The cover story, "April Anti-Fools a Great Success! Scams, Fakes and Frauds—And How to Avoid Getting Taken," sets the tone for the content, which aims to equip readers with critical thinking skills to navigate a world filled with deceptive claims.

Key Articles and Features

April Anti-Fools: Scams, Fakes and Frauds

The main feature, by Helen E. Hester-Ossa, highlights events and seminars organized by the National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS) focused on debunking fraudulent claims. The event included demonstrations of feats by performers like Todd Robbins and Jamy Ian Swiss, who showcased skills in sword swallowing, mind reading, and street scams.

Spotting Bogus Information on the Web:
Dr. Eileen Abels, Professor of Information Studies at the University of Maryland, provided practical advice on identifying and avoiding online scams. Her top ten pointers include being wary of information that seems too good to be true, never responding to urgent emails requesting personal information, understanding the rules of online transactions, and verifying URLs. She emphasized the importance of being skeptical and avoiding clicking on phishing links, which can lead to malware installations.

Journalism Gone Bad-Fakes and Frauds in the Media:
Brian Morton, a columnist for the Baltimore City Paper, discussed historical instances of media hoaxes and frauds. He noted that while newsrooms have opportunities to verify facts, many scams have been perpetrated by the media itself to attract readers. Examples cited include the 1835 New York Sun series about planets in other solar systems and life on the moon, and Edgar Allan Poe's famous "balloon hoax."

Sideshow Humbuggery:
James Taylor, author of "Shocked & Amazed! On and Off the Midway," explored the history of sideshows, often referred to as "humbuggery." He described the use of exotic finds, performers with unusual abilities, and preserved oddities as attractions. Taylor explained the typical structure of sideshows, including the use of colorful banners, outside talkers (ballys), and continuous performances known as "grind shows."

Street Scams-Three Card Monte and the Shell Game:
Jamy Ian Swiss, a magician and author, demonstrated street scams like Three Card Monte and the Shell Game. He explained that these cons rely on the operator appearing less intelligent than the mark, with shills playing a crucial role in creating a false sense of confidence. Swiss noted that New Yorkers often have a natural resistance to such scams.

Games, Swindles, and Cheats:
Todd Robbins, known for his extreme performance art, discussed scams and frauds throughout history. He quoted H. L. Mencken, stating that "The men the American people admire most extravagantly are the best liars." Robbins distinguished between "short cons" and "long cons," and touched upon hoaxes that evolved into scams, such as the 19th-century Fox sisters and Spiritualism.

The Sideshow:
This section further elaborates on the nature of sideshows, detailing their traditional elements like exaggerated banners and outside talkers. It describes how acts were presented on stages or in pits, and how "grind shows" operated continuously, allowing audiences to enter and exit at any time.

The Write Stuff: Graphology

This section features a letter from the NCAS Board of Directors to Ronald Shaw, CEO of Pilot Pen Corporation of America, regarding the company's decision to use graphology in hiring. The NCAS argues strongly against this, labeling graphology as a pseudoscience with no legitimate basis in personality assessment. The letter highlights the lack of scientific validation and the potential legal liabilities for the company. It cites research and scientific consensus that graphology fails to meet the criteria of accuracy and reliability required for employment testing. The appendix includes excerpts from scientific literature that overwhelmingly criticize graphology, with one study concluding that graphologists performed no better than a chance model.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the critical examination of claims and the promotion of skepticism against deception. The National Capital Area Skeptics, through its publication, actively works to counter the influence of pseudoscience and fraud. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and scientific validity, as demonstrated by the detailed debunking of graphology and the exposure of various scams and hoaxes. The magazine encourages readers to be vigilant, question claims, and rely on critical thinking and scientific understanding.

Title: Skeptical Eye
Issue: Vol. 17, No. 1
Date: 2005
Publisher: Skeptical Eye
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Skeptical Eye features several articles exploring themes of science fiction, psychology, and the history of paranormal research.

War of the Worlds, or, a Fun Weekend with the Kids by John Weigel

John Weigel reviews Steven Spielberg's 2005 film adaptation of H.G. Wells' classic novel, "War of the Worlds." He begins by questioning the need for yet another alien invasion film, referencing previous cinematic attempts like "Signs" and "Independence Day," as well as the iconic 1938 Orson Welles radio broadcast that caused widespread panic. Weigel notes that, as usual, the book is superior to the film.

The article contrasts the original novel's setting in late 1890s England, with its colonial context and the contemporary fear of German power, with the film's modern interpretation. Wells' novel depicted Martians using heat rays and poison gas, eventually succumbing to earthly diseases. Weigel highlights the original novel's famous quote about alien "intellects vast and cool and unsympathetic."

He then discusses various adaptations, including the 1953 film set in California and the 1938 radio broadcast's relocation to New Jersey. Spielberg's 2005 movie, while closer to the book than "Independence Day," introduces new elements like dimensional portals and lightning storms as entry points for the aliens. The film's protagonist is a divorced crane operator, Ray Ferrier (Tom Cruise), who must protect his children. Weigel points out several "life lessons" from the movie, such as keeping up with current events, the importance of maturity, listening to others, not screaming unless necessary, doing homework, and planning ahead. He also humorously notes that the aliens, despite their advanced technology, are defeated by common germs, suggesting they might have been "Creationists."

Weigel also briefly mentions Kurz Lasswitz's 1897 novel "Auf Zwei Planeten" as an earlier alien invasion story, noting its themes of imperialism and corruption of power, and its relative obscurity compared to Wells' work.

Imaginary Companions by Mari-Elise Gates

This article explores the concept of imaginary companions (ICs) in children, drawing heavily on Carl Sagan's "The Demon-Haunted World." Sagan links imaginary friends of childhood with adult abduction stories, suggesting that both might stem from the imagination. The article defines ICs as invisible characters with whom children interact, often for at least several months, and who have a sense of reality for the child.

Dr. Margaret Svedson and Dr. Jennifer Mauro provide definitions, with Mauro including dolls and toys that children treat as real. ICs are common, with sixty-five percent of children having them, and they are a normal part of a child's life, often mirroring the child's age and gender. They can help children cope with stress, loneliness, or provide affection, especially during times of maternal absence or the birth of a sibling. ICs can also exhibit behaviors children find unacceptable, but this doesn't necessarily harm the relationship.

The article discusses various reasons for IC creation, including coping mechanisms, emotional expression, and social development. ICs can help children practice social skills, boost self-esteem, and develop cognitive abilities. They provide unconditional acceptance and reassurance.

Studies indicate that children with ICs can differentiate reality from fantasy, referring to their companions as "pretend" or "not real." While ICs typically fade by adolescence as brain hemispheres mature, some adults continue to have them. Researchers have found that children with ICs may experience higher anxiety levels but do not necessarily suffer from emotional difficulties. The link between ICs and paranormal experiences is explored, with the suggestion that a strong fantasy world in childhood might lead to susceptibility to apparitional sightings in adulthood.

Early Origins of Psychic Research by Richard Dengrove

Richard Dengrove traces the history of psychic research back further than the commonly cited Fox sisters' rappings, beginning with an 1837 experiment by William Stone. Stone, a former ambassador and educator, worked with a blind woman who allegedly demonstrated psychic abilities, including telepathy and clairvoyance, by disclosing the contents of sealed envelopes and "reading" minds. Stone attributed these phenomena to animal magnetism, a theory popularized by Franz Anton Mesmer.

The article explains Mesmerism and its evolution, noting how the focus shifted from animal magnetism to the power of the mind. By 1900, the concept of animal magnetism had largely disappeared, with the mind being seen as capable of curing any problem through optimism and visualization. The article highlights that the proof for such mental powers relied on the failure of material explanations.

Spiritualism emerged from Mesmerism in the 1840s, shedding the doctrine of animal magnetism but retaining elements of Swedenborgianism, which involved the soul's journey through the cosmos. The article mentions Andrew Jackson Davis, inspired by Mesmerism, who wrote about his trance visions and soul journeys, influenced by Emanuel Swedenborg. This atmosphere, fostered by Davis, is presented as the context for the Fox sisters' emergence.

More Than Skin Deep: How Advertisers Use Science to Sell to Teens by Sonia Belasco

Sonia Belasco examines how advertisers, particularly in the skin care industry, use psychological tactics and pseudo-science to target teenagers. The article begins by describing the overwhelming experience of navigating a drugstore aisle filled with products making claims like "microbeads!" and "dermatologist tested!"

Belasco quotes Carl Sagan, who stated that "Advertisers must know their audiences" and that ads for alien sightings prey on "unlimited audience gullibility." This principle is applied to marketing in general, which often exploits basic human psychology, fears, and simplistic beliefs, as described by Anthony Pratkanis and Elliot Aronson in "Age of Propaganda."

The skin care market, specifically acne cleansers aimed at teenagers, is presented as a prime example. Teenagers are a lucrative demographic due to their disposable income and potential for lifetime loyalty. Advertisers use scientific methods and child psychologists to craft precise marketing strategies. Companies like Oxy, Neutrogena, and Clean & Clear target the nearly 85% of individuals aged twelve to twenty-four who experience acne.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptical Eye consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based stance, scrutinizing claims related to the paranormal, pseudoscience, and questionable psychological phenomena. The magazine aims to debunk myths, analyze popular culture through a skeptical lens, and promote critical thinking. This issue exemplifies this by dissecting the scientific validity of graphology, questioning the narrative and scientific plausibility of "War of the Worlds" adaptations, exploring the psychological underpinnings of imaginary companions, and exposing manipulative advertising tactics. The editorial stance is one of informed skepticism, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and seek empirical evidence.

Title: Skeptical Eye
Issue: Vol. 17, No. 1
Date: 2005
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Skeptical Eye features two main sections: "Skin Deep," which critically examines marketing and advertising strategies, particularly those targeting teenagers, and "write stuff/UFO letter," which includes correspondence related to UFO phenomena and media coverage.

Skin Deep: The Psychology of Advertising

The "Skin Deep" section, continuing from a previous page, delves into the complex world of marketing, focusing on how advertisers appeal to the teenage demographic. It highlights that teenagers, despite being inundated with ads, are discerning and can detect overt advertising. However, marketers employ psychoanalytic research to understand and influence them.

Key Marketing Motivators

According to John and Nicholas O'Shaughnessy, marketers must consider three central motivating factors for consumer purchase:

• Association: Will the product be linked with qualities and images that the target demographic values?
• Community: Will the product make consumers feel connected to others?
• Power: Will the product make the consumer feel in control or prestigious?

The "Beauty Myth" and Social Identity Theory

The article discusses how advertisers exploit the "beauty myth," the idea that physical appearance is paramount. Studies show that attractive models are often attributed positive qualities, and girls with poor body images are particularly susceptible. Social identity theory is also explored, suggesting a link between self-perception and ownership in a materialist society. Advertisers aim to create a connection between an idealized image and their product, encouraging purchase to achieve that idealized status.

Brand Recognition and Product Personality

Brand recognition is crucial, especially in competitive markets like skin products. Companies develop a "product personality" to distinguish themselves, using tactics like cross-promotion, celebrity endorsements, and dermatologist testimonials. This is collectively referred to as "the pitch."

Targeting the Teenage Demographic

Businesses invest heavily in reaching the teenage demographic, viewing them as a lucrative consumer group. Media critic Robert McChesney compares this to colonial empires, with teens being the territory to be "colonized" through various media like films, music, and the internet. Marketing experts advise brands to "learn about and live in the culture" to connect with teens effectively.

John and Nicholas O'Shaughnessy further categorize consumer desires into five areas:

• Image: Will this product make me look better?
• Interpersonal relations: Will this product make me more popular?
• Integrity: Does the product cohere with my ideals and desires?
• Innovation risk avoidance: By using this product do I avoid unnecessary risk?
• Investment payoff: Is this product worth it?

The Role of Packaging and Color

Packaging is a critical component of advertising. Thomas Hine, author of "The Total Package," notes that packaging mirrors expected customers and influences self-perception. Marketing psychologist Louis Cheskin's studies in the 1930s demonstrated that package shape (e.g., circles vs. triangles) could significantly impact perceived product effectiveness, even when the product was identical. Color also plays a persuasive role, operating on subconscious, cultural, and expectation levels, influencing mood and gender association.

Expert Endorsements and Third-Party Technique

The "third party technique" involves using experts to validate a product. This is common in advertisements for over-the-counter medications and skin products, where companies cite dermatologists or provide "information centers" on their websites. While this lends credibility, it can divert attention from the company's vested interest and relies on the trust consumers place in these expert communities.

Consumer Literacy

The article concludes the "Skin Deep" section by emphasizing the importance of consumer literacy. It advises readers to be critical of advertising, conduct fact-checking, and use a "baloney detection kit" to sift through persuasive tactics.

write stuff/UFO letter: Critiques of UFO Media Coverage

This section contains correspondence from members of the National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS) regarding UFO phenomena and media portrayals.

NCAS Mourns the Passing of Phil Klass

Gary Stone, President of NCAS, writes a letter of condolence to Mrs. Klass on the death of her husband, Phil Klass. Klass is remembered for his careful research debunking alleged extraterrestrial visitations and refuting charges of government cover-ups and conspiracies regarding UFOs. His work also helped provide prosaic explanations for abduction experiences.

Letter to "ABC News: The UFO Phenomenon—Seeing Is Believing"

Scott Snell, vice president of NCAS, writes to the producers of an ABC News program about UFOs. Snell believes the program fell short by omitting crucial information. His main points of criticism include:

1. Failure to mention scientific studies: The program neglected to inform viewers about the federally funded University of Colorado's UFO study (the Condon study, 1966-1968), which was reviewed by a National Academy of Sciences (NAS) board. Snell argues that the report concluded further extensive study of UFOs was unlikely to advance science.
2. Omission of French research: Viewers were not informed about the French space research agency CNES's UFO studies (GEPAN and SEPRA) conducted from 1977 to 2004.
3. Mischaracterization of the Robertson Panel: The program misrepresented the CIA's Robertson Panel, suggesting its intent was to ridicule UFO witnesses, rather than to educate the public and reduce gullibility regarding aerial phenomena.
4. Inclusion of hoax videos and images: The program displayed numerous images and videos that are known hoaxes within the UFO community, without commentary or context.
5. Misrepresentation of DC radar cases: The program highlighted 1952 UFO cases in Washington, DC, involving anomalous radar contacts, but failed to mention that the Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) had investigated these cases and found prosaic explanations, thus leaving them presented as unsolved mysteries.

Snell also questions why the program didn't provide URL information for further research and why UFO photos were included without discussion.

An editor's note indicates that Scott Snell received no answer to his letter.

About NCAS

The "About NCAS" section provides information on how to join the organization, subscribe to their email lists ("The Shadow" and "NCAS-SHARE"), access resources on their website (including the Condon UFO report), and make tax-deductible donations. It also includes contact information for Skeptical Eye and a mailing address for NCAS.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are critical analysis of marketing and advertising techniques, particularly their psychological underpinnings and ethical implications, and a skeptical examination of UFO phenomena and media coverage. The editorial stance is one of promoting critical thinking, media literacy, and scientific rigor, encouraging readers to question claims and seek evidence-based explanations. The publication actively debunks sensationalism and misinformation, advocating for a more informed and discerning public.