Skeptical Eye - Vol 18 No 1 - 2006

Magazine Overview

Title: National Capital Area SKEPTICAL EYE
Issue: Vol. 18, No. 1
Date: 2006
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the National Capital Area Skeptical Eye features a prominent article on the Salem witchcraft trials, aiming to debunk common myths and provide a more accurate historical understanding. It also includes updates on the National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS) activities and reports from 'The Amazing Meeting 4'.

Mysterious Delusions: Witchcraft in Salem

This article, authored by Walter F. Rowe, Ph.D., a Professor at The George Washington University, addresses several popular misconceptions surrounding the Salem witchcraft trials.

Debunking Common Myths:

• Punishment: Contrary to popular belief, witches were hanged, not burnt, in Salem, as per English law.
• Origin of Hysteria: The notion that the hysteria began with young girls using magic to discover their future husbands is attributed to a careless reading of Rev. John Hale's writings. Rowe argues this is an 'academic urban legend'.
• Tituba's Ethnicity: The claim that Tituba was African is challenged. Rev. Samuel Parris, her owner, clearly stated she was an Indian. This assertion about her being African is presented as an effort by academic activists to highlight African-American contributions, even if it's a 'moral panic'.
• Location: While the trials are associated with Salem, the hysteria actually began in Salem Village (now Danvers), and most accused witches resided in other townships.

Historical Context:

Rowe critiques the 'failure of the historical imagination' that leads to the belief that girls could meet clandestinely for magical séances. He points out that girls lived on dispersed farms, many were domestic servants, and lived in cramped houses with constant adult supervision, making privacy non-existent.

Salem's Modern Approach:

Following generations of shame, Salem now capitalizes on its history with attractions like the Salem Witchcraft Museum and the Salem Wax Museum.

The 17th Century New England Mind:

This section delves into the intellectual and scientific landscape of 17th-century New England during the time of the trials.

• Scientific Revolution: The trials occurred at the dawn of the scientific revolution, with Copernicus' heliocentrism gaining acceptance and Newton's *Principia Mathematica* published.
• Intellectual Climate: Massachusetts Bay Colony was described as an 'intellectual backwater' with limited access to books. Reading material was largely restricted to the Bible and almanacs.
• Harvard's Role: Despite the general lack of widespread education, Harvard College, established in 1636, had a significant number of college graduates among its early immigrants. The curriculum included classical languages, philosophy, mathematics, physics, and astronomy. Harvard's education was highly regarded, with its A.B. recognized by Oxford.
• Key Figures and Harvard Graduates: Many prominent figures involved in the Salem trials were Harvard graduates, including William Stoughton (deputy governor and chief justice), Nathaniel Saltonstall and Samuel Sewall (members of the special court), Increase Mather (President of Harvard and critic of the trials), Cotton Mather (son of Increase, defender of the trials), John Hale (minister and author), George Burroughs (former minister and accused leader), and Samuel Willard (critic of the trials). Samuel Parris, whose home was the origin of the hysteria, attended Harvard but did not graduate.
• Belief in Witchcraft: The article states that in the 17th century, virtually everyone believed in witchcraft, a belief rooted in pre-Christian systems where witches were seen as persons with supernatural powers who caused harm.

Evidence and Controversy:

• Spectral Evidence: This controversial type of evidence involved an afflicted person claiming to see a specter of the witch, which would then 'afflict' them. Accusers sometimes displayed marks from these specters.
• Other Tests: The 'overlooking' test (accusers going into fits when the accused looked at them) and the 'touch' test (fits ceasing when the accused touched the accuser) were also used. These tests required the accused and accusers to confront each other in court.
• Puritan Theology: The New England Puritans integrated witchcraft into their Calvinist theology, viewing Satan as heading an 'antichurch' and witches as his recruits who signed his book and participated in sabbats. They saw this as a conspiracy against their colony and church.
• Crisis of Faith: Some prominent Puritans experienced a crisis of faith due to the rise of materialism in science, seeing the demonstration of witchcraft's reality as proof of a supernatural realm and thus the existence of God.

Chronology of the Salem Witchcraft Trials:

A detailed timeline from 1688 to 1693 is provided, outlining key events:

• 1688: Martha Goodwin's 'bewitchment' and Cotton Mather's publication of *Memorable Providences*.
• 1689: Samuel Parris becomes minister of Salem Village.
• 1691: Villagers quarrel with Parris.
• January 1692: Abigail Williams, Elizabeth Parris, and others exhibit strange behavior.
• February 1692: Tituba bakes a 'witch cake'; accusations against Tituba, Sarah Good, and Sarah Osborne begin.
• March 1692: Tituba confesses; more accusers and accused emerge, including Martha Cory and Rebecca Nurse.
• April 1692: Accusations spread; George Burroughs is accused.
• May 1692: Court of Oyer and Terminer established.
• June 1692: Cotton Mather suggests avoiding spectral evidence; Bridget Bishop is convicted and sentenced to death; Rebecca Nurse is acquitted then convicted.
• July 1692: Several individuals are hanged on Gallows Hill.
• August 1692: More convictions and sentences, including John Proctor.
• September 1692: Giles Cory is pressed to death; more individuals are hanged.
• October 1692: Cotton Mather defends trials; Increase Mather denounces spectral evidence; critiques by Willard and Brattle; Governor Phips halts further use of spectral evidence and arrests.
• November 1692: Superior Court established.
• January 1693: Order for execution of postponed cases is blocked by Governor Phips.
• May 1693: Governor Phips pardons remaining prisoners.

Physical Evidence:

Accused witches were searched for the 'Devil's Mark,' described as an unnatural excrescence or a preternatural teat used to suckle familiars. The standard test involved pricking the mark with a needle to observe the reaction.

Prez Sez

This section, written by Gary Stone, the NCAS president, provides an update on NCAS activities and member interests.

NCAS Activities:

• The 2005-2006 lecture season concludes in May, with a social event in June.
• NCAS will resume holding monthly events in Virginia, in addition to Maryland, covering the 'Capital Area'.
• Upcoming talks are scheduled at the Tysons-Pimmit Library in Virginia and the Bethesda Library.
• The annual NCAS program will be held in October.

Member Interests:

A questionnaire revealed that the following topics were ranked equally high by respondents:

• Creationism/Intelligent Design, Evolution, Religion vs. Reason, Separation of Church and State
• K-12 Science Education, Science Literacy, Critical Thinking, Political Correctness
• Unscientific/Alternative/Quack/Fringe Science/Health/Medicine/Psychology (e.g., Herbal Medicines, Medical Charlatans, Medical Scams, False Memories)
• Scientific ignorance, misuse of Science/Statistics/Data in media/politics/public policy/government regulation; fads in management, health, and self-help
• Explanations/Debunking of Cold Readings, Hoaxes, Frauds, Scams, Psychics, Pseudoscience

Other interests mentioned by one respondent each included anomalous science and technology, and archeological controversies.

Attendance and Transportation:

Respondents indicated their ability to attend weekend daytime events in various Metro areas, with Montgomery County (94%) being the highest. For transportation, half the respondents found subway/bus transportation 'very important' (11%) or 'somewhat important' (38%).

Factors Discouraging Attendance:

The primary factors discouraging attendance were conflicting obligations (61%), day or time (27%), location (16%), and being too far (16%).

Event Scheduling Analysis:

A table shows the percentages of respondents who could attend NCAS events at various times throughout four weeks, broken down by day and time (morning, afternoon, evening). The zip codes of attendees are being analyzed.

Call for Volunteers:

Gary Stone requests assistance with analyzing the attendance data and mentions that many excellent comments and suggestions were received, with follow-ups planned.

Elections Coming Soon:

Elections for the NCAS Board of Directors are approaching, with several members up for election or reelection.

The Amazing Meeting 4

This section covers 'The Amazing Meeting 4', hosted by James 'The Amazing Randi' and the James Randi Educational Foundation (JREF), held in Las Vegas from January 26-29, 2006.

Key Figures and Presentations:

• James Randi: Known internationally as a magician and escape artist, Randi is recognized as a tireless investigator and demystifier of paranormal and pseudoscientific claims.
• Christopher Hitchens: His wit was noted for 'flattening hypocrisy' and exposing entrenched powers and interests.
• Todd Robbins and the Human Pretzel: Featured a performance including Adam Savage from Mythbusters.
• Daniel W. "Chip" Denman: A statistician and co-founder of NCAS, he teaches 'Science and Pseudoscience' and created a graduate course in information visualization.
• Dr. Richard Wiseman: An award-winning magician, psychologist, and author, known for his work on the psychology of belief in psychics and hauntings.
• Dr. Stanley Krippner: Conducted workshops on personal mythology, dreams, and hypnosis.
• Daniel Dennett: Professor of Philosophy at Tufts University, focusing on philosophy of mind and science.
• Lt Colonel Hal Bidlack: Associate Professor of Political Science at the USAF Academy, with a history of involvement with JREF.
• Dr. Michael Shermer: Director of the Skeptics Society and publisher of Skeptic Magazine.
• Mac King: Magician and comedian, named 'Magician of the Year'.
• Ed Lu: Research physicist and astronaut, who participated in 'The First Card Trick in Space' with Randi.
• Professor Murray Gell-Mann: Nobel Prize winner in physics, author of *The Quark and the Jaguar*.
• Dr. Carolyn Porco: A leader in solar system exploration, involved with projects like Voyager, Mars Observer, Lunar Explorer, and Cassini.
• Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage (Mythbusters): Presented their show, which tests urban legends and makes science fun.
• Paul Provenza: Known for his comedy and directing the documentary *The Aristocrats*.
• Carney showman Todd Robbins and Paul Harris: Featured on NewsTalk 1120 KMOX.
• Adam Savage: Spoke about Ovation Award winner Julia Sweeney, known for her one-woman show "Letting Go of God."
• Ellen Johnson: President of American Atheists, advocating for the separation of church and state and civil rights of nonbelievers.
• Penn Jillette: Half of the duo Penn & Teller, known for skewering magic and performing for over 25 years. He auctioned his American flag shirt for JREF.
• Jamy Ian Swiss: Performer and contributor to Skeptic magazine.
• Artist Jose Alvarez: Donated quartz artwork to the JREF auction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Skeptical Eye consistently promotes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and the debunking of pseudoscience and paranormal claims. The magazine serves as a resource for information that challenges extraordinary claims with evidence. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, encouraging a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding the world. The focus on events like 'The Amazing Meeting' and in-depth articles on historical events like the Salem Witch Trials underscore this commitment to critical examination.

This issue of Skeptical Eye, Volume 18, Number 1, published in 2006, focuses on the historical event of the Salem witchcraft trials under the cover headline "Mysterious Delusions." The magazine delves into the chronology, key figures, legal proceedings, and various proposed explanations for the hysteria that gripped colonial Massachusetts in 1692.

Satan Unleashed in Salem

The article provides a detailed chronology of the Salem witchcraft outbreak, beginning in February 1692 with the disturbing behavior of the daughter and niece of Rev. Samuel Parris. The antics of Abigail Williams, including climbing into the fireplace and throwing logs, were noted by Rev. Deodat Lawson. A doctor's examination suggested bewitchment, leading to the involvement of justices Jonathan Corwin and John Hathorne. The afflicted girls began accusing neighbors, and by April, arrests were widespread, extending to Andover, where Abigail Hobbs confessed and implicated others. Governor Sir William Phips established the Court of Oyer and Terminer to handle the crisis, as the colonial charter had been abrogated. This court operated with great efficiency, leading to rapid indictments, trials, convictions, and condemnations. By October 19, 1692, several witches had been hanged, one pressed to death, and many others were jailed. The court's reliance on spectral evidence drew criticism from Puritan ministers, including Increase Mather and Rev. Samuel Willard, who argued against its faulty logic and application of English law.

Critiques of the Court and Legal Proceedings

Rev. Samuel Willard, minister of the Third Church in Boston, despite being accused himself, criticized the special court and wrote the preface to Increase Mather's "Cases of Conscience." Willard also published "Some Miscellany Observations on Our Present Debates Respecting Witchcrafts," framing his critique as an intellectual correction of the Salem gentlemen by the Boston elite. Willard had previously dealt with a case of alleged demonic possession by his servant girl, Elizabeth Knap, whose accusations he attributed to Satan. Thomas Brattle, a member of Willard's church and a scholar with ties to Isaac Newton, also wrote a circular letter criticizing the trials. Brattle, an empirical scientist, had made telescopic observations used by Newton. Nicholas Noyes, a minister at Salem Town church, offered a "scientific" explanation for the "touch" test, involving effluvia, which Brattle refuted as based on a misunderstanding of Cartesian theory. Brattle also pointed out the falsity of accusers claiming to see specters with closed eyes. Governor Phips eventually abolished the Court of Oyer and Terminer and released accused witches on bail. In 1693, the prohibition of spectral evidence led to acquittals for most, and Phips blocked executions.

Key Facts and Demographics of Accusers

Certain key facts about the Salem witchcraft trials are highlighted: the accusers in Salem and Andover were overwhelmingly female (17 women vs. 2 men) and mostly young. The core accusers included Abigail Williams (11-12), Ann Putnam Jr. (12), Betty Hubbard (17), Mercy Lewis (19), Mary Walcott (17), Mary Warren (20), and Susannah Sheldon (18), many of whom were servants. The fits of the afflicted involved physical movements, sensations of being pinched or bitten, temporary paralysis, and choking, later evolving into seeing specters of the accused and the "black man," who pressured them to sign Satan's book. Examinations often involved the afflicted suffering fits when confronted with the accused or their specters.

Searches for Explanations

Over the years, various explanations for the witchcraft hysteria have been proposed. The initial explanation—that witches conspired to overthrow Christianity—was rejected. During the Enlightenment, focus shifted to the accused, viewing accusers as liars. Arthur Miller's "The Crucible" is based on this fraud explanation. Evidence supporting the fraud theory includes an incident during Sarah Good's trial where an afflicted girl claimed to be stabbed by a knife, and a piece of blade was found, later identified as belonging to a knife broken by a young man the day before. However, the severity and duration of the afflictions suggest more than just fraud. Modern historians generally accept the innocence of the accused and the reality of the afflictions, seeking naturalistic explanations.

Proposed Naturalistic Theories

• Jimson Weed Theory: Proposed by Marion Starkey, this oldest toxin theory suggests contact with Jimson weed caused convulsive seizures and painful spasms. However, it doesn't explain why fits continued after Tituba's imprisonment or the content of hallucinations.
• Ergotism Theory: Proposed by Linnda R. Caporael, this theory suggests consumption of foodstuffs contaminated with ergot fungus caused the symptoms. While ergot alkaloids are related to LSD, there's no evidence of the gangrenous form of ergotism in Salem, and the convulsive form requires Vitamin A deficiency, which was likely not present. This theory also fails to account for the content of hallucinations.
• Encephalitis Lethargica: Researcher Laurie Winn Carlson suggested an outbreak of this disease, known for causing delirium, hallucinations, and stupor, as an explanation. However, there's no evidence of unusual morbidity among accusers during the trials, and the specific auditory hallucinations reported in encephalitis lethargica were not reported in Salem.
• Mass Hysteria: Marion Starkey and Chadwick Hansen proposed that accusers were victims of mass hysteria, or 'Mass Sociogenic Illness.' This theory, drawing on the work of Charcot and Freud, suggests that practicing witchcraft in a culture that believes in it can induce hysterical symptoms.
• Village Factionalism: Paul Boyer and Stephen Nissenbaum studied bitter feuds in Salem Village over property, inheritance, debts, and the church. They interpreted the trials as a conflict between the Putnams and the Porters, with accused individuals serving as surrogates for powerful Porter family members. However, their theory is criticized for being unfalsifiable and thus unscientific.
• 'Uppity Women' Theory: Historian Carol Karlsen suggested that accused women challenged Puritan gender roles, claiming property rights and speaking out against societal inequities. However, this theory doesn't account for the fact that accusers were also overwhelmingly women.
• Gender and Age Issues: John Putnam Demos studied witchcraft accusations in New England and theorized that accusations arose from an implicit conflict between young women entering adulthood and older women who had failed to acquire wealth or status. Demos acknowledges this theory doesn't fully fit the Salem trials due to their scale.

Politics and War

Historians Charles Upham and Mary Beth Norton emphasized the political and military context. The abrogation of the Massachusetts Bay Colony charter in the 1680s and the appointment of Sir Edmund Andros as royal governor created instability. The period leading up to the trials (1689-1692) was marked by war against France, with Indian attacks on frontier settlements instigated by Count Frontenac. These attacks, including the massacre at Dover, New Hampshire, and raids in Maine and New York, led to an influx of displaced settlers and heightened fear. Many New Englanders believed in a conspiracy involving the French, Wabanaki Indians, and English leaders, with the "black man" possibly representing an Indian sachem or shaman. Confessed witch Abigail Hobbs encountered the "black man" in Maine, and George Burroughs, associated with the frontier, was seen as a protégé of Joshua Scottow.

The Witches of Andover

While Salem Village and Town had thirty-nine accused witches, the neighboring township of Andover had forty-three. Over thirty Andover witches confessed, but most were never brought to trial due to Governor Phips granting bail. The documentary record for Andover is sparse, but available information seems to contradict the ergotism and village conflict theories, suggesting more intra-family conflict.

Aftermath

In 1697, Massachusetts Bay Colony proclaimed a fast day to avert God's anger. Samuel Sewall, a justice of the Court of Oyer and Terminer, had his minister read a statement seeking pardon. Thomas Fiske, foreman of the petit jury, and eleven jurymen recanted their verdicts, blaming "mysterious delusions" of Satan. In 1711, restitution was paid for actual financial losses. Massachusetts gradually reversed the attainders of surviving convicted witches and restored their civil rights. Unlike European governments, no European government admitted errors or paid compensation for witchcraft trials.

Later Developments and Figures

Samuel Parris eventually left his pulpit in Salem Village after wrangling over back wages. He was replaced by Joseph Green, who initiated reconciliation efforts. Increase Mather was maneuvered out of the presidency of Harvard College. Rev. Samuel Willard became acting president, and Thomas Brattle became a Fellow. The article notes the fates of various figures: Abigail Hobbs married and raised a family; Mercy Lewis married and moved; Susannah Sheldon was warned out of Providence and died before 1697; Abigail Williams and Mary Warren cannot be traced. Elizabeth Parris married and had children. Thomas Putnam and his wife Ann died in 1699. Ann Putnam Jr. died unmarried in 1715, but in 1706, she read a statement to the congregation expressing remorse for her role as an accuser, acknowledging it as a delusion of Satan and expressing belief in the innocence of those accused.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical analysis of the Salem witchcraft trials, the exploration of various scientific and psychological explanations for the mass hysteria, and the examination of the social, political, and military contexts that may have contributed to the outbreak. The magazine adopts a skeptical and analytical stance, presenting different theories and critiquing their validity based on historical evidence and scientific reasoning. The editorial stance appears to favor naturalistic explanations over supernatural ones, while acknowledging the complexity and enduring mystery of the events.

Title: Skeptical Eye
Issue: Vol. 18, No. 1
Date: 2006
Publisher: Skeptical Eye
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Skeptical Eye delves into historical events and scientific controversies, featuring articles on the Salem Witch Trials, the legal battle over Intelligent Design in schools, and the life and scientific contributions of Michael Servetus. It also explores the origins of natural magic and Mesmerism.

Salem Witch Trials and Historical Parallels

The issue begins by continuing a discussion on "mysterious delusions," referencing Anne Putnam's statement regarding the Salem events of 1692. The text highlights how Salem became a negative lesson about the perils of fanaticism, with Southern politicians using it as an argument against abolitionists. Arthur Miller's play 'The Crucible' is discussed as a modern evocation of the trials, noting that Miller created a love affair between Abigail Williams and John Proctor to provide a motive for false accusations. Miller's intention was to respond to the anti-communist crusade of Senator Joseph McCarthy, drawing a parallel between the Salem witch hunt and the perceived communist infiltration of the U.S. government. The article mentions that some contemporaries found this analogy flawed, suggesting that just as there were no witches in Salem, there were no communists in the government.

Dramatis Personae: Sir William Phips

A biographical sketch of Sir William Phips (1651-1695), the Royal Governor, is presented. Phips, born in Maine, worked his way up from a shepherd to a ship's carpenter and captain. He achieved fame and fortune by salvaging treasure from sunken Spanish galleons and led a successful attack on Port Royal in Acadia, though an attempt on Quebec failed, leaving the Massachusetts Bay Colony in debt. His appointment as governor was influenced by his success and Increase Mather's politicking. Phips returned to confront the Salem witchcraft trials and the Second Indian War. His wife was accused of witchcraft, which may have influenced his decision to shut down the Court of Oyer and Terminer. His correspondence with the home government is described as an attempt to whitewash his role, exaggerating the threat of witches and lying about his knowledge of the court's activities. He died in London in 1695.

Contingent Events in History

Stephen Jay Gould's concept of contingent events in evolution is applied to history, suggesting that crucial decisions in mass upheavals like the Salem trials were made by individuals. The article lists several "contingent events" where different actions by key figures like Samuel Parris, Hathorne, Corwin, Stoughton, and Phips could have altered the course of the trials, potentially leading to fewer trials or acquittals. It also contrasts Samuel Parris's approach with Jonathan Edwards's interpretation of afflictions in Northampton, which led to the 'Little Awakening' and the 'Great Awakening' revivals.

Further Reading on Salem Witch Trials

A list of websites and books is provided for further research on the Salem Witch Trials, including the Salem Witch Trials Documentary Archive and works by Mary Beth Norton, Laurie Winn Carlson, Carol F. Karlsen, John Putnam Demos, Paul Boyer, Stephan Nissenbaum, Chadwick Hansen, and Marion L. Starkey.

So-called Intelligent Design is Not Science

This section details the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania's ruling on December 20, 2005, against the Dover Area School District's policy of teaching Intelligent Design (ID) in public school science classes. The court found that the ID policy violated the Establishment Clause and that ID is not science, but rather a religious, creationist antecedent.

The Court's Conclusion and Order

The court's Memorandum Opinion is cited, emphasizing that the ID policy violates the Establishment Clause because ID is not science and is inextricably linked to its religious origins. The ruling refutes the assumption that evolutionary theory is antithetical to belief in a supreme being, stating that scientific theories do not deny the existence of a divine creator. The court issued a declaratory judgment against the Dover ID Policy and permanently enjoined the defendants from maintaining it in any school within the district. It also prohibited requiring teachers to denigrate evolution or promote ID.

Defendants' Actions and Plaintiffs' Rights

The court determined that the defendants' actions violated the plaintiffs' civil rights under the U.S. Constitution and 42 U.S.C. § 1983, making them liable for injunctive and declaratory relief, nominal damages, and attorneys' fees.

Michael Servetus—Death by Fire

This article chronicles the life and death of Michael Servetus (1511-1553), a Spanish polymath who was burned at the stake in Geneva for heresy. Servetus, who was a lawyer, medical student, anatomist, doctor, editor, and theologian, is remembered for his work on the circulation of the blood. The article notes that while others were also exploring blood circulation, Servetus's contribution was significant. He abandoned a successful career in science and medicine for theological controversy. His writings, particularly 'De Trinitatis Erroribus' and 'Christianismi Restitutio,' challenged established religious doctrines, leading to accusations of heresy and eventually his condemnation.

Servetus's Life and Conflicts

Servetus adopted the French persona of Michel de Villeneuve and studied medicine. He had a contentious relationship with Jean Calvin, stemming from their time as students in Paris. Servetus's critical views on the Trinity and his provocative tone earned him enemies. After being imprisoned in Lyons, he escaped and fled to Geneva, a city under Calvin's strict control. Despite his intellectual prowess and medical contributions, Servetus's theological views led to his persecution. The article highlights the irony of Protestants, who fought against religious persecution, becoming persecutors themselves.

Servetus's Scientific Legacy

Despite his controversial theological stances and tragic end, Servetus's scientific legacy is explored. His anatomical observations on blood circulation, though not fully appreciated at the time, are recognized. The article quotes Servetus's description of blood circulation through the lungs, emphasizing the mixture of air and blood. It also notes that while Servetus was a skilled debater, his theological views and confrontational style led to his downfall. The piece concludes by reflecting on the coexistence of reason and unreason in the same mind, as exemplified by Servetus's story.

The Origin of the Modern Day Occult: Starry Influence

This article by Richard Dengrove traces the origins of Mesmerism, 'positive thinking,' and spiritualism back to "Natural Magic." Natural magic, which existed from the 13th century and peaked in the 16th century, involved the belief in the lawful influence of natural forces, including the stars and planets.

Natural Magic and Mesmerism

Fransz Anton Mesmer's concept of "Animal Magnetism" in 1778 shared similarities with natural magic, particularly the influence of stars and invisible beings. Both believed in psychic powers and the ability to influence others. However, natural magic differed from Mesmer's theory in that it often involved action at a distance, which conflicted with Aristotelian principles. Mesmer's theory was more aligned with contemporary scientific thought, though it also had similarities with other thinkers' theories. The term "animal magnetism" itself originated from the 17th-century scientist Van Helmont.

Similarities and Differences

The article points out that while natural magic and Mesmerism shared common ground in their belief in unseen influences and psychic phenomena, Mesmer's theory was more readily integrated into the scientific discourse of his time. The concept of "occult" itself stems from the idea of hidden explanations for phenomena. The article concludes by noting that while natural magic was often seen as less circumspect regarding invoking spirits, Mesmer's followers in the 18th century were less concerned with legal restrictions than their predecessors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptical Eye consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to historical events, scientific claims, and societal phenomena. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards superstition, religious dogma, and pseudoscientific theories, while championing reason, scientific inquiry, and the separation of church and state. The articles on the Salem Witch Trials and Michael Servetus highlight the dangers of fanaticism and persecution, while the piece on Intelligent Design strongly advocates for the integrity of science education and the constitutional principle of secular governance. The exploration of natural magic and Mesmerism serves to contextualize the historical development of ideas that continue to influence modern occult and New Age movements, viewed through a lens of critical historical analysis.

Title: Skeptical Eye
Issue: Vol. 18, No. 1
Date: 2006
Publisher: National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Skeptical Eye delves into the historical roots of modern occult beliefs, tracing their lineage back to figures like Franz Mesmer and his practices of 'animal magnetism.' The magazine also provides practical information for readers interested in supporting the organization through membership and donations.

Mesmerism and the Roots of Occultism

The article "modern day occult continued from previous page" explores how Mesmer adapted his practices to create a compelling show, noting that patients often experienced epileptic fits and somnambulistic trances, which attracted attention. The importance of 'touch' in Mesmer's methods is highlighted, described as risqué and adding to the allure. Mesmer's animal magnetism is explained as working by channeling existing influences rather than solely through proximity or amulets, as in natural magic. Techniques like using iron rods, ropes, music, and tubs filled with 'mesmerized' water were employed to enhance susceptibility to these influences. The text suggests that this emphasis on the mind over matter, and the belief in powers originating beyond sensory perception, laid the groundwork for later idealistic occult beliefs.

The article also notes that Mesmerism owed a significant debt to the natural magicians of previous centuries. A "Selected Bibliography" provides further reading on the subject, listing works by Robert Darnton, Lorraine Daston and Katharine Park, William Eamon, John Fauvel et al., and Reginald Scot.

Joining and Supporting NCAS

The central portion of the page features a prominent call to action: "Don't be mystified. JOIN? RENEW?" This section details how readers can become members of the National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS) or renew their existing memberships. A clear table outlines "Membership Options" with prices for Single, Double, and Full-time student memberships across various durations: 1 year, 2 years, 5 years, and Lifetime.

For example, a Single membership costs $30 for 1 year, $50 for 2 years, $100 for 5 years, and $200 for Lifetime. Double memberships (for two members at the same mailing address) are priced at $40, $65, $120, and $250 respectively. Full-time students can join for $10.

Readers are instructed to fill out a form with their Name, Street, City, State, Zip, Phone, and e-mail. The organization assures that member information is not shared. Students are asked to list their institution. An option is provided for additional tax-deductible donations and to opt-out of receiving the email version of the NCAS monthly calendar, "Shadow of A Doubt."

Instructions are given to "Check the mailing label for your membership date you'll find a renewal form above." Checks should be made payable to NCAS and mailed to NCAS, PO Box 8428, Silver Spring, MD 20907.

About NCAS and Resources

Page 2, titled "about NCAS," provides further details on the organization's activities and resources. It mentions "Bits and Pieces," including:

• The Shadow, NCAS' monthly calendar, available via email by sending a request to [email protected].
• A low-volume electronic mailing list called "ncas-share" for members to exchange news and items of interest, also accessible by emailing [email protected].
• The NCAS website, www.ncas.org, which hosts the Condon UFO report and other resources.
• A reminder that NCAS is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization, making all donations tax-deductible.

The "What would YOU like to see in the Skeptical Eye? Write us at" section invites reader feedback via email ([email protected] for general inquiries, [email protected] for newsletter business) or by calling their 24-hour phone number: 301-587-3827. The organization expresses a desire to hear from its readers.

The mailing address for NCAS is provided again: PO Box 8428, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical approach to paranormal and pseudoscientific claims, as evidenced by its title, "Skeptical Eye," and its affiliation with the "National Capital Area Skeptics." The content on Mesmerism serves to contextualize historical phenomena within a framework that acknowledges their influence while also examining their underlying mechanisms and potential for manipulation. The emphasis on providing resources, membership opportunities, and soliciting reader feedback suggests an editorial stance focused on engaging an informed public and fostering critical thinking about extraordinary claims. The organization's nonprofit status and encouragement of donations further underscore its commitment to its mission.