04-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 4
Date: Summer 1989 (kesä 1989)
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Language: Finnish
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of SKEPTIKKO, the information bulletin of Skepsis ry, delves into various aspects of skepticism, particularly concerning paranormal phenomena and alternative medicine. The cover prominently features the headline "Skeptikko ja paranormaalit ilmiöt" (Skepticism and Paranormal Phenomena), setting the tone for the content within.

Skepticism and Paranormal Phenomena

Nils Mustelin, the chairman of Skepsis ry, opens the discussion with an article titled "Skeptikko ja paranormaalit ilmiöt." He emphasizes the core principle of skepticism: the empirical and careful investigation of claims about paranormal abilities. The central question posed is, "Are there any well-attested Paranormal phenomena?" Mustelin references psychologist Terence Hines's book "Pseudoscience and the Paranormal," outlining two key reasons for skeptical inquiry: first, the possibility that even seemingly unbelievable claims might contain a kernel of truth verifiable by scientific methods, and second, the moral obligation of the scientific community to inform the public when claims are unsubstantiated, especially when charlatans exploit people's vulnerabilities.

Mustelin also touches upon the psychological aspect, noting that the widespread popularity of pseudoscientific systems presents an interesting field for psychological research to understand why rational individuals might cling to debunked beliefs.

CSICOP Conference in Bad Tölz

Erkki Kauhanen reports on the CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) conference held in Bad Tölz, Germany, from May 5-7, 1989. He describes the skeptical movement as a counterforce to "humpuuki" (charlatanry) and "hurlumheili" (nonsense). The conference program covered topics such as alternative medicine, New Age, creationism, dowsing, and graphology. Kauhanen notes that in Central Europe, alternative medicine, including homeopathy, iridology, and acupuncture, is a major concern for skeptics. He highlights a presentation by Professor Paul Knipschild from Limburg University, who critically examined various "unwirksame Medizin" (ineffective medicine) methods. While Knipschild criticized homeopathy, iridology, and acupuncture, he made a slight concession regarding ginseng, citing studies that showed positive effects on the vitality of the elderly. Kauhanen explains that ginseng's effects can be attributed to its steroid-type glycosides, like saponins, which have known medicinal properties.

Knipschild's critique of acupuncture is deemed particularly relevant for Finland, where it has gained significant acceptance, even among doctors. Kauhanen mentions writing to Knipschild for more details on his research.

Homeopathy was another prominent topic at the conference. Kauhanen discusses the case of Jacques Benveniste, a French researcher who claimed to have successfully diluted homeopathic preparations to the point where no original molecules remained, yet they still retained their effect. James Randi also shared information about Benveniste's past, including an attempt to sell a perpetual motion machine. Randi believes that while Benveniste may have acted carelessly, his assistant, Dr. Elisabeth Davenas, was the architect of the deception.

Kauhanen predicts a surge in discussions about homeopathy in the Finnish press and a significant increase in the sales of homeopathic preparations in Finland within the next year. He calls upon skeptical doctors in Finland to form a group to monitor homeopathy.

Literature Review: A Chinese Skeptic from Early Times

Kalevi Kuitunen reviews "Lun-heng" (Critical Meditations) by the Chinese writer Wang Tshung, who lived around 100 AD. Kuitunen highlights Tshung's skeptical arguments against popular beliefs, such as the existence of ghosts and the consciousness of the deceased. Tshung argued that just as a dead animal does not become a ghost, a dead human does not either, as the spirit (tshi or energy) dissipates with the body. He also questioned the idea of ghosts appearing clothed, suggesting that if a ghost is merely the spirit, it should be naked. Kuitunen points out that this argument, though ancient, is rarely used by modern critics.

Tshung's reasoning is further elaborated by comparing a dying person to a fire that goes out; once extinguished, it cannot reignite or produce light. He concludes that consciousness ceases with death, and the deceased cannot act or harm anyone. The article notes that Wang Tshung is described as having a "clear, humorous, and often biting satirical style" in defense of common sense.

Skepsis ry Updates

Membership Information

The "Skepsiksen tiedotuksia" (Skepsis News) section provides an update on the organization's membership growth. Skepsis ry had 39 members in its second year, 45 in the third, and 53 by the end of June 1989, with several new candidates in July. The bulletin clarifies that only those who have submitted a membership application and paid their dues are considered official members. Those who have paid but not applied will be treated as subscribers to the Skeptikko magazine. The issue states that this is the last number to be sent to everyone in the registry, urging members to pay their dues promptly to support upcoming events like the autumn seminar and James Randi's visit.

Skepsis Board

The issue lists the members of the Skepsis ry board elected in March 1989. The board includes: Nils Mustelin (Chairman), S. Albert Kivinen (Vice-Chairman), Matti Virtanen (Secretary), Erkki A. Kauhanen (Treasurer), Hannu Karttunen (Editor-in-Chief of Skeptikko), and Heta Häyry (Organizer of the lecture series). Their contact information and affiliations are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, critical examination of alternative medicine, and the importance of scientific methodology. The editorial stance, as expressed through the content and the disclaimer, is that all published writings represent the authors' personal opinions and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of the editorial team, Skepsis ry, or CSICOP. The emphasis is on rational inquiry, evidence-based reasoning, and the debunking of pseudoscience and unfounded beliefs.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 4
Date: Summer 1989
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, the magazine of the Finnish Skeptics Society, covers upcoming events, reviews, and news relevant to the skeptical community.

Skepsis Lectures Continue

The Skepsis society is continuing its series of public lectures. Due to the October seminar, only three lectures are scheduled for autumn: one in September, one in November, and one in December. The lectures aim for quality over quantity.

• September 20th: S. Albert Kivinen, Skepsis Vice Chairman, will discuss historical conspiracy theories.
• November 22nd: Professor Nils Edelman, a writer on the history of geology, will present on the Atlantis myth and related geological theories.
• December 13th: A guest from the University of Helsinki, an expert in biblical studies, will lecture on what exegesis teaches the skeptic, exploring the interpretation of ancient texts.

All lectures will be held at the University of Helsinki, Porthania lecture hall IV, on Wednesdays, starting at 6:00 PM, with a customary slight delay.

Heta Häyry, a board member, is responsible for organizing the lecture series and welcomes suggestions for the spring 1990 program.

Tähdet ja Avaruus - Magazine Seeks Contributors

The magazine Tähdet ja Avaruus (Stars and Space), published by the astronomical society Ursa, is seeking contributors for its 'Hämärän rajamailla' (On the Fringe of Twilight) column. This column has previously covered topics relevant to Skepsis. Seppo Linnaluoto, the editor, is looking for individuals interested in writing about astrology, UFOs, and other celestial phenomena. The deadline for submissions for the next issue is September 16th.

Skeptikko Magazine Also Needs Contributors

Skeptikko magazine itself is also soliciting contributions. The editorial team welcomes articles and other material. They also offer assistance with editing. An open forum section is available for news, comments, and critiques of the society and the magazine.

The Devil's Advocate Worldwide

The Skepsis book 'Paholaisen asianajaja' (The Devil's Advocate), released in March, has garnered considerable attention and mostly positive reviews. The magazine notes with some surprise the lack of significant criticism, questioning if they missed the mark by not provoking more debate. Publications like Ultra and Antroposofien Katsaus have offered reviews. Ultra has not commented on the book, while Antroposofien Katsaus found a "rather naive preliminary review" in the preface, which was the only point of criticism mentioned.

The book's authors are noted for not being dismissive of pseudoscientific proponents, instead aiming to analyze the 'scientific' basis for various belief systems. The review in Sanomalehtimies-Journalisten by Esko Mustonen is highlighted as an attack, stemming from the author's promotion of Skepsis and the book in his column. This review is described as based on misunderstandings and fueled by animosity.

Several other reviews are quoted:

• Jan Rydman (US 5.4.-89): Praises the book for not labeling pseudoscientific enthusiasts as unintelligent and for its analytical approach.
• Kalevi Kuitunen (HS 25.4.-89): States that the book provides essential information on topics often favored by the media, potentially upsetting those who profit from superstition.
• Hans Rosing (Hufvudstadsbladet 22.6.-89): Calls the book an important and mandatory read for anyone interested in the paranormal, defending it as a strong defense of critical thinking against outdated materialism.
• Antti Seppä (Kotkan Sanomat 21.4.-89): Describes the book as healthy reading, noting a slight seriousness but acknowledging that not everyone approaches phenomena like dowsing or UFOs with extreme gravity.
• Kai J. Ilmonen (Demari 9.5.-89): Hopes Skepsis continues its work in combating irrationalism, suggesting that even mainstream science can foster uncritical beliefs.
• Rauha Korte (Me Naiset May -89): Considers the book a valuable resource for those interested in expanding their understanding of 'huuhaa' (pseudoscience).
• Risto Nieminen (Lapin Kansa 27.4.-89): Notes the book's comprehensive critique of pseudoscience, covering phenomena like dowsing, astrology, and UFOs.
• Ilpo Salonen (Tiede 2000 4/89): Appreciates that the authors avoid mocking paranormal phenomena or believers, recognizing that the general public may relate more easily to pseudoscientists than scientists.
• Tiina Pystynen (Turun Sanomat 1.7.-89): Reflects on the human desire for supernatural experiences and questions what needs these fulfill, contrasting them with scientific explanations.
• Kari Saari (Vapaa Ajattelija 4/89): Calls it a "superb skeptic's handbook."

Other Magazines

The society's secretary has a collection of international skeptical magazines that are available for members to borrow. These publications have been accumulated over two years, largely due to an advertisement in The Skeptical Inquirer. Members with foreign language skills are encouraged to read them and provide summaries. Contacting these international skeptics is also facilitated through these magazines.

Publications listed include:

• La Alternativa Racional (Spain)
• Skepter (Netherlands)
• Cenap-Report (Germany)
• Der Skeptiker (Germany)
• Indian Skeptic (India)
• Arip view (South Africa)
• The British & Irish Skeptic (UK/Ireland)
• Folkvett (Sweden)
• The Skeptic (Australia)
• New Zealand Skeptic (New Zealand)
• Numerous US skeptical magazines.

Skepsis Seminar 13.-15.10.1989

Skepsis is organizing its first international seminar, "ARE THERE ANY WELL-ATTESTED PARANORMAL PHENOMENA?", at the University of Helsinki from October 13th to 15th, 1989. The seminar aims to foster discussion on paranormal phenomena from various perspectives.

International Guests:

• Susan Blackmore: Psychology researcher from Bristol University, specializing in out-of-body experiences (OBEs) and the scientific status of parapsychology.
• Robert Morris: Professor of parapsychology at Edinburgh University.
• Andrew MacKenzie: Vice Chairman of the Society for Psychical Research (SPR), author of books on hauntings and apparitions.
• Geoffrey Dean: Australian researcher and science writer, board member of the Australian Skeptics, with professional experience in astrology.
• James Randi: American magician and author, active member of CSICOP, known for offering a $10,000 reward for proof of paranormal abilities under controlled conditions.

Finnish Participants:

• Dos. Kyösti Tarvainen, Chairman of the Finnish Astrological Association, has been invited.

Seminar Program:

The seminar will cover evidence for and against paranormal phenomena, with special themes including ESP, out-of-body experiences, ghosts, astrology, dowsing, and Earth radiation. The language of the seminar will be English, and it will be held at the University of Helsinki.

Friday, October 13th:

• Welcome by Prof. Nils Mustelin (Skepsis Chairman).
• "On the rules of the game" by Dos. S. Albert Kivinen.
• "The statistical significance of the phenomena observed in ESP experiments" by Prof. Robert Morris.
• "Out-of-body experiences" by Dr. Susan Blackmore.
• "Evidential value of spontaneous cases" by Dr. Andrew Mackenzie.
• Panel discussion.

Saturday, October 14th:

• "The case for astrology" by Dr. Geoffrey Dean.
• "On the empirical evidence for astrology" by Dos. Kyösti Tarvainen.
• Discussion on astrology.
• "Dowsing and Earth radiation" by Prof. Nils Edelman.
• Afternoon program is open, potentially including talks on Earth radiation by Dr. Sakari Närvänen and on dowsing for avalanche victims by Norwegian guests.
• Discussion session including James Randi.

Sunday, October 15th:

• Skepsis representatives and James Randi will visit the "Hengen ja tiedon messut" (Spirit and Knowledge Fair).
• At 3:00 PM, James Randi will give a public lecture at the university (location and topic to be announced).

A dinner for seminar speakers, James Randi, and the Skepsis board will be held on Saturday evening at 7:00 PM. Members are welcome to attend at their own expense. Registration for the dinner is mandatory and binding, with a deadline of September 15th.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical approach to paranormal claims, pseudoscientific theories, and unsubstantiated beliefs. It actively engages in debunking such claims through reviews of books and research, and by organizing lectures and seminars featuring experts in critical thinking and scientific investigation. The editorial stance is one of promoting rational inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, encouraging critical evaluation of extraordinary claims, and providing a platform for informed discussion within the skeptical community.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 4
Volume: 4
Date: Summer 1989 (kesä 1989)

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish skepticism magazine, contains information regarding upcoming publications, recommendations for international skeptical resources, and details about joining the Skepsis organization.

Upcoming Issue and Seminar Summary

The magazine announces that the next issue of Skeptikko will be released at the end of November or the beginning of December. The editorial team intends to include a summary of the presentations given at a recent seminar in this upcoming issue.

International Skeptical Activities and The Skeptical Inquirer

For readers interested in learning more about the international activities of skeptics, the magazine strongly recommends "The Skeptical Inquirer," a publication by CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal). Subscription information for "The Skeptical Inquirer" is provided, including an address in Buffalo, NY, USA. Readers are directed to a form on the reverse side of the page (page 2) to place their subscription orders.

Skepsis Organization: Membership and Principles

Pages 3 and 4 are dedicated to information about the Finnish skepticism organization, Skepsis. Readers are invited to become members by filling out a provided application form and sending it to the Skepsis secretary.

Membership Application

• The membership application form requests the following details:
• Name
• Profession and academic degree
• Home address and postal code
• Phone number
• Workplace address and postal code
• Phone number
• A section for describing experience related to Skepsis's field, relevant publications, membership in other scientific societies, and special interests (with the option to use a separate sheet if needed).

Applicants must also confirm their acceptance of the purpose and principles of the Skepsis organization as defined in its statutes, which are referenced as being on the back cover of the magazine.

Skepsis Organization: Founding, Purpose, and Principles

Skepsis was founded in 1987 as an organization for Finnish skeptics. Its operating principles are similar to those of the US-based CSICOP, but Skepsis operates entirely independently, though in cooperation with CSICOP and other similar organizations.

The organization's statutes outline its purpose as:

• Promoting objective and unbiased scientific investigation of claims concerning paranormal phenomena, without making prior assumptions about the validity of these claims.
• Maintaining a network of individuals interested in such research and keeping in contact with similar communities both domestically and internationally.
• Publishing articles and books that investigate claims of paranormal phenomena, and compiling bibliographies of publications containing such claims.
• Organizing meetings and conferences related to the field, and engaging in educational and informational activities.

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

The Skepsis board can approve applications for membership from individuals and legally recognized organizations that accept the organization's principles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around promoting scientific skepticism, encouraging critical thinking about paranormal claims, and fostering a community of like-minded individuals through the Skepsis organization and its recommended international publication, The Skeptical Inquirer. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based investigation and objective analysis of extraordinary claims, as reflected in the principles of Skepsis and its alignment with CSICOP.