03-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 3
Date: Spring 1989
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Document Type: Information magazine

This issue of Skeptikko, the information magazine of Skepsis ry, delves into the complex topic of hypnosis, examining it from a skeptical and scientific viewpoint. The magazine aims to clarify what hypnosis is, its historical development, its potential therapeutic applications, and its often-misunderstood relationship with parapsychology and pseudoscience.

Table of Contents

The issue features a comprehensive table of contents, listing articles and their authors:

• Editorial: Visions and Quality Control by Nils Mustelin
• What Hypnosis Is and Isn't by Pekka Roponen
• Where Did the Negative Results Go? by Hannu Karttunen
• Transmedium's Singing Performance by Nils Edelman
• Literature
• Apparently Critical Parapsychology by Kalevi Kuitunen
• Sheldrake and the Mystery of the Organism by Timo Kaitaro
• CSICOP Meeting by Hannu Karttunen
• Is There Interest in Searching for Phenomena? by Erkki Kauhanen
• Action Plan for the Rest of 1989 by Matti Virtanen
• Skepsis ry's Activity Report 1988 by Matti Virtanen

The magazine explicitly states that the opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not represent the official stance of the editorial team, Skepsis, or CSICOP.

Editorial: Visions and Quality Control

Nils Mustelin's editorial, "Visiot ja laadunvalvonta" (Visions and Quality Control), addresses the common misconception that natural sciences stifle imagination. He argues that scientific knowledge actually expands the scope for creative imagination by increasing the interface between the known and the unknown. Mustelin posits that imagination is a crucial driver of scientific breakthroughs, but emphasizes that any vision must undergo rigorous quality control—logical consistency, compatibility with existing knowledge, and empirical verification—before it can become a scientific theory. He contrasts this with pseudosciences, which often present unsubstantiated visions as new knowledge without critical evaluation. Mustelin concludes that the interplay between imagination and quality control has led to the robust, comprehensive scientific worldview, and understanding this process makes one immune to pseudoscientific claims. He links this to the future of humanity, suggesting that a better understanding of the universe and our own psychology is essential for creating a humane future.

What Hypnosis Is and Isn't

Pekka Roponen's article, "Mitä hypnoosi on ja mitä se ei ole" (What Hypnosis Is and Isn't), explores the nature and applications of hypnosis. He traces its roots back to ancient shamanistic practices and religious rituals, noting its use in various cultures for healing and altered states of consciousness. Roponen highlights the growing interest in hypnosis from sports and business since the mid-20th century, and its slower but increasing adoption in medicine, particularly through neuro-linguistic programming (NLP).

The article then delves into the historical concept of "animal magnetism," associated with Franz Anton Mesmer, who believed he could cure illnesses using this force. Mesmer's methods, though controversial and eventually dismissed by scientific committees as relying on patient imagination, gained significant popularity. The article mentions James Esdaile's work with pain-free surgeries using hypnoanalgesia in India, which was met with skepticism in Britain. The term "hypnosis" itself was coined by James Braid, who initially believed it was a sleep-like state but later developed other theories. The influence of neurologists like Jean-Martin Charcot, who viewed hypnosis as a form of hysteria, and Sigmund Freud, who adopted it for psychoanalysis, is also discussed.

Roponen contrasts the "Nancy school" of Bernheim and Liebault, which emphasized suggestion as the basis of hypnosis, with earlier Mesmeric ideas. He notes Freud's complex relationship with hypnosis, suggesting that his eventual preference for psychoanalysis might have stemmed from difficulties in applying hypnosis or from a desire for a more comprehensive analytical method. The article touches upon criticisms of Freud's reliability, with claims of him deliberately distorting case studies.

Hypnotic Phenomena

The article categorizes hypnotic states into light, medium, and deep (somnambulism). Light hypnosis is described as a state of deep relaxation where the subject feels languid but not significantly different from wakefulness. Medium hypnosis can involve catalepsy (muscle rigidity) and ideomotor responses (involuntary movements). Deep hypnosis, or somnambulism, is characterized by profound alterations in perception, including hallucinations, age regression, and the emergence of secondary personalities. Post-hypnotic suggestions, where subjects act on instructions given during hypnosis after they have awakened, are also discussed. Roponen emphasizes that subjects will only follow suggestions that align with their subconscious acceptance, and that forced compliance can be considered brainwashing.

Neurophysiology of Hypnosis

Regarding the neurophysiology of hypnosis, EEG studies show increased alpha activity, indicating relaxation, but other brain responses remain similar to wakefulness. Notably, hypnosis can significantly reduce or eliminate the sensation of pain, a phenomenon termed hypnoanesthesia, which is distinct from the endorphin release associated with acupuncture analgesia. Hypnosis has shown promise in treating psychosomatic conditions like hypertension and asthma.

The Naturalistic School and Erickson

The article introduces the "naturalistic school" of hypnosis, largely influenced by American psychiatrist Milton H. Erickson. Erickson viewed the hypnotic trance as a normal state of consciousness, experienced by most people in everyday situations like reading or driving. He developed short-term therapy techniques that leverage the individual's inherent strengths and abilities. Erickson's concept of the "Ericksonian triad" describes the division of the patient's personality into conscious and unconscious aspects, allowing the therapist to engage with these parts as if they were distinct. This approach is contrasted with psychoanalytic interpretations, which see hypnosis as a regression to childhood states and therapeutic success as a result of transference.

Psychoanalysis Challenged

The article addresses the perceived dangers of hypnosis, arguing that hypnotic therapy is generally less risky than psychiatric medications. It debunks the myth that hypnosis can trigger or worsen psychosis, noting its experimental use in treating acute psychoses in the US. The limited use of hypnosis in Finland is attributed to the proliferation of unqualified lay hypnotists and the historical dominance of psychoanalysis in psychotherapy. However, the rise of short-term therapies, like those inspired by Erickson, is changing this landscape, with psychoanalysis itself facing competition in the US market.

Literature Review

A list of literature related to hypnosis is provided, including works by Aukee & Rahkonen, Bandler & Grinder, Erickson, Rossi & Rossi, Furman, Haley, Hartland, Hilden, Kroger, and Trömner.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to topics like hypnosis. The magazine seeks to demystify phenomena, separate scientific understanding from pseudoscience, and promote rational inquiry. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking and rigorous scientific methodology, encouraging readers to evaluate claims with a healthy dose of skepticism while remaining open to genuine scientific exploration. The focus on hypnosis highlights the magazine's commitment to examining subjects often associated with the paranormal or fringe beliefs through a lens of scientific scrutiny.

This issue of SKEPTIKKO, number 3 from spring 1989, focuses on the problem of why negative results in paranormal research are often forgotten or ignored, a phenomenon explored by Hannu Karttunen in the lead article. The magazine also features reviews of books and performances related to parapsychology and the afterlife, maintaining a critical and skeptical stance.

Where Did the Negative Results Disappear To?

Hannu Karttunen's article addresses the common anecdotal evidence for paranormal phenomena, such as thinking of someone just before they call. He references Nobel laureate Luis Alvarez's statistical explanation: with a large population, coincidences are bound to happen frequently, making them seem significant. However, Karttunen argues that for every 'hit,' there are many more 'misses' that go unreported. Researchers often focus on experiments with positive outcomes, neglecting those with negative results, which skews the overall picture. He stresses the importance of pre-determining experimental parameters and reporting all results to avoid bias. The article uses examples from telepathy experiments to illustrate how selective reporting and lack of clear protocols can lead to misleading conclusions.

Karttunen explains that in sensory perception experiments, the relationship between stimulus strength and detection probability is typically represented by a rising curve. However, some individuals may exhibit biased responses, either reporting detections when none occurred (false positives) or consistently responding regardless of the stimulus. He illustrates this with graphs showing different response patterns (Curves A-F), emphasizing that a truly responsive subject's detection rate should correlate with stimulus strength.

To measure telepathy, Karttunen suggests a setup with a sender and a receiver, conducting 100 trials where the sender attempts to transmit a thought. He uses contingency tables to show how to analyze the results. For instance, a table showing '40 observed, 10 not observed' for 'sending' and '40 observed, 10 not observed' for 'not sending' would indicate no correlation. A more typical result might show a difference, like 38 observed and 11 not observed for sending, and 26 observed and 25 not observed for not sending. This suggests a correlation, but the overall bias in responses (more 'yes' than 'no') needs to be considered. He introduces probability calculations, including the binomial distribution formula, to determine if results are statistically significant or merely due to chance. For example, in a test with 100 trials where chance predicts 50 correct answers, getting 52 correct might seem unusual, but statistical analysis shows it occurs 38% of the time by chance alone, making it less remarkable.

Karttunen concludes that the key to studying such phenomena lies in reproducibility and the consistent recording of all outcomes, both successes and failures. He proposes a method for studying precognition by having a group record predictions of future events daily, with the results stored securely. Analyzing these predictions against actual events, while accounting for the frequency of false predictions, would provide a more objective assessment.

Skeptic's Cultural Page: Transmediumship Performance

Nils Edelman reviews a concert in Turku featuring Aulikki Plaami, advertised as a renowned European "transmedium" who channels singers from the spirit world. Edelman describes the performance where Plaami sang in a low male voice, though the identity of the channeled singer was not revealed. He notes that Seppo Plaami, her husband and accompanist, seemed to know which song the spirit would 'sing' next, raising questions about how this was managed. Edelman also recounts receiving a 'message' from a deceased woman with breast problems, which he found vague and unconvincing, especially as his grandmother died of tuberculosis. He concludes that the performance was not very convincing.

Literature Reviews

Skepticism in Parapsychology

Kalevi Kuitunen reviews D. Scott Rogo's book "Kuolemastako uusi elämä?" (Is There Life After Death?). Kuitunen finds Rogo's work to be a typical popular book on the paranormal, despite its claims of being critical. Rogo, a writer rather than a researcher, is noted for his ambiguous stance, having published in both skeptical and parapsychological outlets. The review points out that Rogo's case studies are anecdotal and imprecise, similar to other popular works. While Rogo discusses the history of parapsychology, Kuitunen finds his treatment superficial. Rogo believes in life after death but admits his stance is less absolute than it once was, acknowledging that out-of-body experiences are rarely provable and that near-death experiences might be physiological responses. Kuitunen criticizes Rogo for not adequately considering skeptical explanations like telepathy or self-suggestion, and for failing to cite key critical works, such as Susan Blackmore's "Beyond the Body." The review highlights Rogo's misrepresentation of Melvin Harris's work in debunking alleged past-life memories, suggesting Rogo did not read Harris's book thoroughly.

Sheldrake and the Mysteries of Organisms

Timo Kaitaro reviews Rupert Sheldrake's "A New Science of Life: The Hypothesis of Formative Causation." Sheldrake's theory proposes that biological development is influenced by "morphic fields" and "morphic resonance," which operate across space and time. Kaitaro notes that while Sheldrake's theory aims to explain normal biological phenomena like morphogenesis, its unconventional nature and potential to explain paranormal phenomena place it within the scope of skeptical inquiry. The theory suggests that the form and development of organisms are guided by these fields, which are shaped by the cumulative history of similar organisms. Kaitaro finds the theory's extension to social and cultural patterns less convincing, as it becomes vague and imprecise. He acknowledges that the theory might be most plausible when explaining morphogenesis but notes that verification attempts often relate to more complex phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of paranormal claims and research. The magazine consistently advocates for rigorous scientific methodology, emphasizing the importance of statistical analysis, reproducibility, and the reporting of all results, both positive and negative. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk pseudoscience and provide rational explanations for phenomena often attributed to the supernatural. The reviews of Rogo's book and Sheldrake's hypothesis, as well as the lead article on negative results, all underscore this commitment to critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning. The magazine also touches upon the nature of belief, coincidence, and the psychological factors that contribute to the acceptance of paranormal claims.

This issue of SKEPTIKKO, number 3 from Spring 1989, is a Finnish publication focused on skepticism and critical examination of pseudoscientific claims. It features in-depth discussions, organizational reports, and news relevant to the skeptical community.

Rupert Sheldrake's Theories Examined

The lead article delves into the theories of Rupert Sheldrake, particularly his concept of morphogenetic fields and formative causation. The author distinguishes between Sheldrake's philosophical views on holism and his specific, empirically testable hypothesis. While acknowledging that some experiments might appear to support Sheldrake's ideas, the article stresses the need for rigorous, repeatable testing to eliminate alternative explanations. It questions the allocation of resources to such research compared to more established scientific fields, while also cautioning against premature dismissal. The author emphasizes that even if Sheldrake's theory is proven false, it does not automatically validate the criticisms leveled against it, such as those found in a Nature editorial, and that the critical stance of the critics might itself be unscientific.

CSICOP European Conference Report

Hannu Karttunen reports on the second European conference of CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), held in Bad Tölz, Germany, from May 5-7, 1989. Representatives from ten European countries, as well as the US, Australia, and South Africa, attended. Key figures present included Mark Plummer and James Randi. The report notes that James Randi apologized for the cancellation of his previous year's tour but vowed to reschedule. Several points from the conference are highlighted: the often frustrating nature of skeptical work, the importance of international cooperation for smaller national groups, the need to teach critical thinking in schools, and the fact that many pseudoscientific claims are tested with poorly designed experiments, while simpler, cheaper tests are often sufficient. The report also reiterates James Randi's standing offer of $10,000 to anyone who can demonstrate paranormal abilities under controlled conditions, mentioning an upcoming televised event in California.

Skepsis ry. Annual Report 1988

This section details the activities of Skepsis ry., the Finnish skeptical organization, for its second year of operation in 1988. The report, authored by Matti Virtanen, notes a slight increase in membership and the initiation of publishing activities. However, it also points to initial difficulties, such as a lack of interest in forming specialized committees and the organization not participating in experimental research of paranormal phenomena as initially planned.

Registration

Skepsis ry. was officially registered on May 11, 1988, after its application submitted in May 1987 was approved. A minor amendment to the bylaws was required by the authorities.

General Meeting

The annual general meeting was held on March 16, 1988, with 14 members present. The board elected for the year included S. Albert Kivinen as chairman and Nils Edelman, Pekka Hartola, Heta Häyry, Matti Häyry, Hannu Karttunen, Nils Mustelin, and Raimo Tuomela as members.

Board Meetings

The board convened six times during the year. In the March meeting, the board organized itself, appointing Nils Mustelin as vice-chairman and Matti Virtanen as secretary and treasurer.

Membership

Membership dues were paid by 49 individuals in 1988, an increase from 37 the previous year. Approximately 30 members provided personal information, and the mailing list included around 100 names of those who had expressed interest in the organization's activities.

Lecture Series

Skepsis continued its public lecture series at Porthania, held monthly during both the autumn and spring semesters. Topics covered included astrology, UFOs, pseudomedicine, paranormal experiences, Nostradamus's prophecies, creationism, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the growth of knowledge. Lectures were advertised through member newsletters and press releases, with an average attendance of fifty people. The lecture on Nostradamus by S. Albert Kivinen was particularly well-attended.

Publications

Two member newsletters were sent out during the year. Towards the end of the year, the Skeptikko magazine was launched as a publication intended for both members and the general public. The first issue, released in December, had a print run of 300 copies.

Discussion on Paranormal Research

Erkki Kauhanen reflects on the possibility of Skepsis ry. actively researching paranormal phenomena, beyond mere skepticism. He notes that some members may not have reached a level of critical thinking where they can distinguish fact from fiction based solely on literature. Kauhanen suggests that while some might view positive results in parapsychology as a 'leap from nothing,' he believes that members interested in actively researching paranormal phenomena should come forward. He proposes testing Finnish astrologers, psychics, and possibly graphologists. Kauhanen discusses the fundamental goal of parapsychological research, which is often to prove the existence of phenomena, and the philosophical underpinnings, referencing Karl Popper. He also touches upon the 'shyness' of paranormal phenomena, questioning whether their elusiveness in controlled laboratory settings is due to participant dishonesty or a genuine, difficult-to-understand evasive property of the phenomena themselves. He draws an analogy to the difficulty of intentionally forgetting keys in a laboratory setting, suggesting that many standard parapsychological experiments might be similarly flawed by the very act of trying to study them, especially when 'emptying the mind' is considered a prerequisite for producing paranormal effects.

Kauhanen expresses dissatisfaction with the common argument that the burden of proof lies with 'them' (non-skeptics), arguing that if paranormal phenomena exist, the task of proving them will ultimately fall to 'us' (skeptics). He invites interested members to discuss potential research starting points, with the aim of either abandoning the pursuit if no viable avenues are found or proposing formal research to the board.

He outlines four possible humorous responses if research efforts prove fruitless: claiming the participation was for methodological study, sociological observation, joining a more open-minded organization, or simply stating 'And yet it moves.' Interested individuals are encouraged to contact him.

Activities in 1989 and Future Plans

The report looks ahead to 1989. The Skepsis lecture series was set to continue at the University of Helsinki, with topics including hypnosis, forestry, superstition in media, brain research, and Eastern religions. The book "Paholaisen asianajaja" (The Devil's Advocate), based on the 1987-1988 lecture series, was published in March 1989. Skepsis ry. was involved in its distribution and marketing.

International Connections

Skepsis maintained correspondence with CSICOP, particularly regarding James Randi's planned visit to Finland. Nils Edelman also corresponded with Sven Ove Hansson, chairman of the Swedish Skeptics Society. James Randi's planned visit in October 1988 was canceled due to his illness. In summer 1988, Thomas Sebeok, a semiotician studying animal communication and a CSICOP advisor, visited Helsinki and was hosted by the Skepsis board.

1989 Activities

The lecture series continued in spring 1989 with speakers covering hypnosis, forestry, media superstition, brain research, and Eastern religions. The book "Paholaisen asianajaja" was published in March 1989. For the latter half of 1989, three public lectures and a scientific colloquium on "Are There Any Well-Attested Paranormal Phenomena?" were planned. The colloquium aimed to bring together international experts, including Andrew McKenzie, Robert Morris, Susan Blackmore, and Geoffrey Dean, with funding sought from the Academy of Finland.

Publications and Membership

The Skeptikko magazine was planned to be published four times a year. Membership was expected to continue growing, potentially boosted by the release of "Paholaisen asianajaja" and Randi's possible visit. The board might also consider awarding a 'recognition' for spreading pseudo-scientific ideas.

The Skeptical Inquirer

The issue includes a description of The Skeptical Inquirer, a publication by CSICOP that critically examines fringe science. Founded in 1976 (initially as The Zetetic), it publishes four issues annually, each over a hundred pages, with a global circulation of about 25,000. The Finnish subscription base is around fifty. Information on how to subscribe and order back issues is provided, along with a subscription form.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical evaluation of paranormal claims and pseudoscientific theories, the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, the activities and growth of skeptical organizations (particularly Skepsis ry. and CSICOP), and the promotion of critical thinking. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific skepticism and evidence-based reasoning, while also acknowledging the complexities and challenges inherent in debunking pseudoscientific claims and in conducting skeptical research itself. The publication aims to inform its readers about ongoing debates, research, and organizational efforts within the skeptical movement.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 3
Date: Spring 1989 (kevät 1989)
Publisher: Skepsis
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, the third issue published in Spring 1989, focuses heavily on membership and the organizational structure of Skepsis, a Finnish skeptical association. The magazine provides details for individuals interested in joining the organization and outlines its core principles and objectives.

Membership Application

The first page features a detailed membership application form. It prompts potential members to provide their name, profession and academic title, home address, postal town, phone number, and workplace details. Additionally, applicants are asked to describe their experience with topics related to Skepsis's field, list any relevant publications they have encountered, mention their membership in other scientific societies, and specify their particular areas of interest. Applicants are informed that they can use separate paper if needed for more extensive information. The form concludes with fields for the date and signature.

About Skepsis

The second page delves into the background and purpose of the Skepsis organization. It states that Skepsis was founded in 1987 as an association of Finnish skeptics. Its operating principles are described as similar to those of the American organization CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), although Skepsis operates independently while collaborating with CSICOP and other similar organizations.

The document then elaborates on the specific purposes and principles of Skepsis as outlined in its statutes:

• Promote Objective Research: To promote the objective and unbiased scientific investigation of claims concerning paranormal phenomena, without making prior assumptions about their validity.
• Networking: To maintain a network of people interested in such research and to keep in contact with similar communities both domestically and internationally.
• Publications: To publish articles and books that investigate claims of paranormal phenomena, and to compile bibliographies of publications containing such claims.
• Events and Outreach: To organize meetings and conferences related to the field and to conduct educational and informational activities.

The organization explicitly states that it is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated.

Membership Criteria

The governing board of Skepsis has the authority to accept applications for membership from individuals and legally capable organizations, provided they accept the aforementioned principles of the association. The application form itself serves as the primary mechanism for individuals to express their acceptance of these principles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the promotion of Skepsis as an organization and the recruitment of new members. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific skepticism and the objective investigation of paranormal claims. The magazine positions Skepsis as a formal body dedicated to these principles, drawing parallels with established international skeptical organizations like CSICOP. The content emphasizes transparency in its goals and operational guidelines, encouraging interested parties to join and contribute to its mission.