01-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Date: Autumn 1988
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
ISSN: 0786-2571

This is the inaugural issue of Skeptikko, the information bulletin of Skepsis ry. The cover features a large graphic of question marks within a circle, symbolizing the magazine's focus on critical inquiry.

Editorial and Table of Contents

• The table of contents lists several key articles:
• Editorial (Pääkirjoitus) by Hannu Karttunen
• The Shroud of Turin Revealed as a Forgery (Torinon käärinliina paljastui väärennökseksi) by Matti Virtanen
• Homeopathy: It Works, It Doesn't Work (Homeopatia: toimii, ei toimi) by Matti Virtanen
• News (Uutisia)
• Literature (Kirjallisuutta)
• Skepsis Updates (Skepsiksen tiedotuksia)

The editorial board's disclaimer states that all published writings represent the authors' personal opinions and not the official stance of the editorial staff, Skepsis, or CSICOP. The issue also lists the members of the Skepsis board and the editorial team for Skeptikko.

Editorial: The First Issue

In the editorial, Hannu Karttunen introduces Skeptikko as a long-awaited member publication. He explains that the magazine aims to inform members about the organization's activities and to spread a skeptical attitude to a wider audience, including libraries. This first issue is considered a trial run, and the editors are seeking feedback on content, frequency (aiming for four issues per year), and layout. They encourage members to submit their own writings and are open to translating foreign material. For submissions, they request material in a computer-readable format, preferably on a 5.25" or 3.5" DOS diskette, or via Decnet or EARN network addresses.

The Shroud of Turin Revealed as a Forgery

Matti Virtanen reports on the definitive conclusion regarding the Shroud of Turin. In October, Cardinal Anastasio Ballestrero announced that the relic is a medieval forgery. The article details the history of skepticism surrounding the shroud, including past papal reservations. It highlights the findings from late 1970s studies that suggested a medieval origin due to the presence of gelatin and synthetic vermilion. The crucial breakthrough came with radiocarbon dating, which was agreed upon in 1987. Despite initial church hesitation and attempts to limit the number of dating laboratories, the results from Oxford, Arizona, and Zurich consistently pointed to a medieval origin (between 3260 and 1390 AD). The article notes the Catholic Church's recent embrace of modern science, citing the rehabilitation of Galileo Galilei and the acceptance of radiocarbon dating. However, it also points out that groups like the Holy Shroud Guild continue to dispute the findings, with some suggesting mystical explanations for the image. Virtanen recommends Joe Nickel's book, "Inquest on the Shroud of Turin," which provides a detailed historical account and demonstrates how to create "mystical" images on linen fabric.

Homeopathy: It Works, It Doesn't Work

Matti Virtanen discusses the controversy surrounding a study on homeopathy published in the prestigious journal Nature. The study, conducted by pharmacologist Jacques Benveniste at the French research institute INSERM, suggested that homeopathic solutions, diluted to the point of containing no original molecules, could still elicit an allergic reaction in cell cultures. This finding was presented as a potential validation of homeopathy's principle that water retains a 'memory' of substances. Nature's editor-in-chief, John Maddox, initially urged Benveniste to repeat the experiments. After further testing, which included replication in other labs, the results still appeared positive. A panel of experts could not find new errors. However, Maddox, along with Walter Stewart from the US National Institutes of Health and magician James Randi, conducted their own investigation at Benveniste's lab. Their subsequent report, published in late July, was highly critical, citing poor record-keeping and a failure to replicate the effect under their supervision. The article notes that Maddox's actions, including sending press releases, generated significant publicity and were seen by some as an overreaction. James Randi's European tour was later canceled due to illness, attributed to overwork. Maddox, however, maintained that the experience was a learning opportunity for all involved.

News

A Truce on the Medical Front?

The National Board of Health in Finland held a seminar with representatives of alternative medicine. Chief physician Jouko Söder stated that alternative treatments are now a permanent part of healthcare and patients have the right to choose them. He also stressed the need for more research into these methods. Surveys indicate that 32% of Finns have used alternative treatments, and this figure rises to 40% if users of natural products are included.

Herbs Against AIDS

A report from UPI mentions that a center for 'holistic' medicine in Geneva is developing herbal treatments for AIDS. The project is backed by disciples of guru Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Professor Robert Croughs of Maharishi European Research University claims that their 'Maharishi Ayurveda' method, which includes herbal diets and meditation, is effective because it treats the whole person, unlike Western medicine which focuses on symptoms and can have side effects.

Did Brezhnev Use It Too?

The article touches upon the revelation that US President Ronald Reagan and his wife Nancy consulted astrologers, as detailed in former White House Chief of Staff Donald T. Regan's memoirs. It suggests that astrological advice may have influenced Reagan's scheduling but not major policy decisions. The news caused embarrassment in the US, and CSICOP in Buffalo was inundated with calls from journalists seeking explanations. The New York Times published an article about Soviet interest in astrology shortly before Reagan's Moscow trip, featuring psychic Dzhuna Davitashvili, who claims to have healing powers (D-force). Davitashvili did not confirm whether she used her powers on Leonid Brezhnev but mentioned that he had suggested building a state clinic for her D-force treatments.

Red Eyes

This section discusses cryptids, mentioning the Yeti and its relatives like the Soviet Alma and the American Bigfoot. It recounts Reinhold Messner's claim of seeing a Yeti and a subsequent expedition that yielded no results. A Soviet research team in the Pamir Mountains reportedly saw a snowman-like creature at a distance of 35 meters, but did not photograph it, fearing it would be scared by the flash. An eyewitness on Moscow radio described a two-meter-tall creature with red eyes.

Literature

UFOs' Tedious Message

Hannu Karttunen reviews Tapani Koivula's book "Ufojen kosminen viesti" (UFOs' Cosmic Message). Karttunen criticizes the book for its strong religious tone and its demand for UFO research to be recognized as scientific, despite lacking scientific basis. He notes the typical contradiction in fringe science proponents who want their beliefs accepted as science but reject scientific scrutiny.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine strongly advocates for skepticism and critical thinking, particularly in relation to pseudoscientific claims in areas like alternative medicine, ufology, and historical relics. The editorial stance is to debunk pseudoscience and promote evidence-based reasoning. The publication aims to inform its readers about scientific findings and to challenge unsubstantiated beliefs, as demonstrated by the articles on the Shroud of Turin and homeopathy. The news section highlights the spread of alternative medicine and the ongoing interest in cryptids and paranormal phenomena, often with a critical perspective.

This issue of SKEPTIKKO, identified as issue 1 from autumn 1988, is a Finnish publication focused on skepticism and critical examination of pseudoscientific claims. The magazine features articles reviewing books, discussing the activities of skeptic organizations, and announcing upcoming events.

Article: Review of Koivula's Book

The first article critically assesses a book by an author named Koivula, who is described as an architect. The reviewer expresses doubt about Koivula's reliance on scientific criteria, questioning whether his framework is based on mainstream science or a 'cosmic love' related to UFOs. Koivula's book is criticized for presenting a large number of UFO sighting accounts that are deemed to have only literary value due to the lack of critical analysis. Skeptical UFO research is dismissed in a brief, two-page attack on figures like Philip Klass, Donald Menzel, and Carl Sagan. The reviewer notes that Koivula seems to resent the sometimes condescending attitude of skeptics, attributing this to a 'cosmic humor' section in his book. While the book cites numerous sources, it selectively avoids critical publications, instead referencing authorities like Uri Geller, George Adamski, and the National Enquirer, which is described as a tabloid sold at supermarket checkouts. The reviewer points out that many UFO illustrations in the book, purportedly from Allan Hendry's 'The UFO Handbook,' show little resemblance to Hendry's examples, except for a triangular shape used to illustrate the human tendency to complete incomplete figures. The 'cosmic message' attributed to UFO visitors is sarcastically summarized as 'Live in peace, stop the arms race, stop polluting, and love each other.' The reviewer questions why such a message would be delivered covertly rather than openly, suggesting the answer is obvious.

Article: Martin Gardner's 'The New Age: Notes of a Fringe Watcher'

This section reviews Martin Gardner's book, published by Prometheus Books in 1988. The reviewer, Matti Virtanen, notes that Gardner's work continues his established line of skeptical inquiry, similar to his previous books 'Fads and Fallacies in the Name of Science' (1952) and 'Science: Good, bad and Bogus' (1981). The title 'The New Age: Notes of a Fringe Watcher' is considered somewhat misleading, as the book is not a cohesive overview of the decade's New Age phenomena but rather a collection of diverse articles. These 33 articles were previously published in various outlets like The Skeptical Inquirer, Discover, and The New York Times. Gardner's approach often focuses on individuals, mentioning figures such as Margaret Mead, Shirley MacLaine, Arthur Koestler, Wilhelm Fliess, D.D. Home, Tommy Gold, Rupert Sheldrake, and L. Ron Hubbard. Gardner is described as unsparing in his critique of those who stray into the realm of fringe beliefs, with Stephen Jay Gould aptly calling him a 'quack-buster.' Gardner has been engaged in this work for over 35 years. The reviewer finds Gardner's insights less novel in the paranormal realm but appreciates his historical overviews of science and technology. A particularly enjoyable chapter is 'Perpetual Motion,' where Gardner categorizes inventors of perpetual motion machines into three groups: 1. Honest but ignorant inventors who lack the physics knowledge to realize their task is impossible. 2. Fraudsters who exploit the gullible for money. 3. Pious tricksters who combine sincere intent with a degree of opportunism. The reviewer finds this categorization insightful and applicable to other groups, noting that Gardner sympathizes with the first group and understands the third, while harshly criticizing the second.

The book is not available in Finnish bookstores but can be ordered directly from Prometheus Books in Buffalo, New York.

Skepsis Announcements

'Paholaisen asianajaja' (The Devil's Advocate)

Skepsis's first book is scheduled for release in spring. Titled 'Paholaisen asianajaja,' it is described as a guide for skeptics, containing ten articles, seven of which are based on presentations from the previous winter. These are supplemented by articles from Carl Sagan, Ilkka Tuomen, and Matti Virtanen. The book will be published by Tähtitieteellinen yhdistys Ursa and sold to Skepsis members at a discounted price. The pre-order price is 88 Finnish marks.

Randi's Visit Postponed

James Rand's planned visit to Finland in autumn 1988, which was a highlight for Skepsis ry, was unfortunately canceled due to Rand's illness, reportedly caused by overwork. He had recently completed a trip to China and was involved in a public controversy concerning homeopathy in the Nature magazine.

Randi's Rescheduled Visit and European Tour

Despite the postponement, Rand's condition was not serious, and he embarked on a European tour. His itinerary was adjusted, with the northern part of Europe excluded. At the time of writing (November 21), Rand was in Rome, having appeared on Italian television the previous evening. Mark Plummer, Executive Director of CSICOP, assured Skepsis that Rand intends to visit the Nordic countries in the spring. Rand's visit is linked to the first joint meeting of European skeptics in Munich in early May. Following this meeting, his travel plans include stops in Luxembourg, Brussels, Amsterdam, Utrecht, Berlin, Helsinki, Stockholm, Oslo, Bergen, Reykjavik, and Florida (his home). Skepsis's board has tentatively planned a two-day program for Rand in Helsinki, similar to the previously planned autumn schedule, including a public lecture, television appearance, press conference, dinner with Skepsis members, and lunch with Finnish magicians. The organization welcomes suggestions for the program but requests that they not be overly strenuous.

Upcoming Lectures

On January 18, Dr. Pekka Roponen will give a lecture on hypnosis. The topics for other lectures in the spring will be announced in the next issue, expected in late January. The lecture dates are February 15, March 15, April 12, and May 10. All lectures will be held on Wednesdays at 6 PM in Porthania's lecture hall IV. Interested individuals are welcome.

Membership Information

The magazine includes a form for those wishing to join Skepsis or obtain more information. It outlines the membership application process, requiring acceptance of the organization's purpose and principles. Fields include name, profession/degree, address, contact information, workplace details, and a section for relevant experience, publications, memberships in other scientific societies, and areas of interest.

Skepsis Organization Details

Skepsis ry, founded in 1987, is a Finnish organization of skeptics. Its operating principles are similar to those of the American CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), though it operates independently while collaborating with other similar organizations. The organization's statutes define its purpose as promoting objective and unbiased scientific research into paranormal claims without prior judgment. It aims to maintain a network of interested individuals and connect with similar communities domestically and internationally. Skepsis also intends to publish articles and books investigating paranormal claims, create bibliographies, and organize meetings and conferences for education and information dissemination. The organization is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. The board can accept individuals and legal entities as members who accept these principles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical examination of paranormal claims, particularly UFOs and New Age beliefs. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for scientific rigor, evidence-based analysis, and debunking pseudoscience. The magazine actively promotes the organization Skepsis ry as a platform for disseminating such critical perspectives and fostering a community of like-minded individuals.