05-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 5
Date: Autumn 1989
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
ISSN: 0786-2571

This issue of SKEPTIKKO, number 5 from Autumn 1989, is primarily dedicated to announcing and detailing a significant challenge issued by the Finnish skeptical society, Skepsis ry. The cover prominently features the headline "Skepsiksen haaste" (Skepsis's Challenge) and announces a "Huuhaa-palkinto" (Hooey Prize) and "Seminaarin anti" (Seminar's Contribution).

Skepsiksen Haaste: The 10,000 Mark Challenge

The central theme of the magazine is the 10,000 Finnish mark challenge, announced at the first Nordic skeptics' seminar in Helsinki on October 14, 1989. The challenge is open to all Finnish citizens or residents to demonstrate paranormal abilities under controlled conditions. The magazine emphasizes that this is not intended to mock believers but to provide an opportunity to scientifically verify claimed abilities. The article "Skepsiksen haaste" by Erkki Kauhanen outlines the historical context of paranormal claims and the need for empirical evidence. It states that Skepsis ry is offering the prize to anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon or demonstrate supernatural abilities like clairvoyance, precognition, or psychokinesis in a controlled test.

Rules of the Challenge

Pages 6-8 detail the comprehensive rules for the challenge, approved by the Skepsis ry board on October 9, 1989. These rules define what constitutes a paranormal phenomenon for the purpose of the challenge, including telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, psychokinesis, out-of-body experiences, dowsing, and astrological interpretations. Participants must be adult Finnish citizens or residents. They need to submit a written application describing the claimed ability. Skepsis will form an expert group to design and conduct tests. Participants are responsible for any travel and accommodation costs, and potentially for the test costs themselves, depending on the complexity. The rules also cover pre-tests, test agreements (esipöytäkirja), and the final test report (testipöytäkirja). Both parties agree to the test results and the possibility of public disclosure. The challenge is valid until the Skepsis ry board renews it annually.

Reactions and Submissions

In the article "Vaikea haaste" (Difficult Challenge) by Matti Virtanen, it's noted that after nearly a month since the challenge was announced, only a few inquiries have been received, with only two applications submitted. The majority of claimed abilities relate to dowsing (finding water or earth radiation), with some claims of clairvoyance and precognition. The article includes quotes from some applicants describing their experiences with dowsing rods and pendulums, expressing their belief in their abilities and the phenomena they claim to detect.

Critiques of Skepticism and Pseudoscience

Hannu Karttunen's article "Kauheat skeptikot" (Terrible Skeptics) addresses criticisms leveled against skeptics, citing quotes that portray skeptics as narrow-minded and dismissive of paranormal claims. Karttunen defends the skeptical stance, arguing that while paranormal claims are interesting, they lack scientific evidence. He highlights that skepticism is often a voluntary, unpaid activity, contrary to the notion that skeptics profit from their work. The article also mentions that prominent skeptical organizations like CSICOP include well-known figures such as Isaac Asimov, Murray Gell-Mann, Stephen Jay Gould, and Carl Sagan.

Other Articles and Mentions

The table of contents reveals other articles in the issue, including:

• "Skepsiksen Huuhaa-palkinto" (Skepsis's Hooey Prize)
• "WSOY ja moniarvoinen kustannuspolitiikka" (WSOY and Diverse Publishing Policy) by Erkki Kauhanen
• "Kolme päivää epäilyä" (Three Days of Doubt) by Matti Virtanen
• "Bob Morris uskoo parapsykologian tulevaisuuteen" (Bob Morris Believes in the Future of Parapsychology) by Erkki Kauhanen
• "Astrologiasta vilkas keskustelu Skepsiksen seminaarissa" (Lively Discussion on Astrology at the Skepsis Seminar) by Nils Mustelin
• "Miksi astrologia näyttää toimivan?" (Why Does Astrology Seem to Work?) by Timo Kaitaro
• "James Randi sotii huijareita vastaan" (James Randi Fights Against Hoaxers) by Hannu Karttunen
• "Voronezhin ufot" (Voronezh UFOs) by Hannu Karttunen

The issue also notes that all published articles represent the authors' personal opinions and not necessarily the official stance of the editorial board or Skepsis ry. The editorial board members are listed, including Nils Mustelin as chairman, S. Albert Kivinen as vice-chairman, Matti Virtanen as secretary, Erkki Kauhanen as treasurer, and Hannu Karttunen as editor-in-chief.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the promotion of critical thinking and scientific skepticism in the face of paranormal claims and pseudoscience. Skepsis ry positions itself as an organization dedicated to investigating such claims rigorously and demanding empirical evidence. The challenge serves as a practical tool to encourage individuals to scientifically test their beliefs and abilities. The magazine's stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and critical evaluation, while acknowledging the public's interest in the paranormal. The articles aim to debunk common misconceptions and expose fraudulent claims, encouraging a more rational approach to understanding unexplained phenomena.

This issue of SKEPTIKKO, number 5, from Autumn 1989, focuses on skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims and phenomena. The cover prominently features the announcement of Skepsis's first 'Huuhaa-palkinto' (Hooey Prize), awarded to Werner Söderström Osakeyhtiö (WSOY). The magazine also extensively covers a Skepsis seminar held in Helsinki from October 13-15, 1989, which explored various paranormal topics.

Skepsis Awards the Huuhaa Prize to WSOY

The lead article details the decision by Skepsis to award its first Huuhaa prize to WSOY. The prize is given for WSOY's long-standing and meritorious work in publishing and distributing pseudoscientific literature. The prize committee specifically noted recent WSOY publications such as 'The Secrets of a Healthy Life', 'The Handbook of Astrology', and 'The Basics of Numerology'. They also referenced older works like A.E. Wilder-Smith's 1981 book, 'Natural Sciences Do Not Know Evolution'.

The committee emphasizes that the prize is not for publishing pseudoscientific material per se, as diversity in publishing is important and censorship is not condoned. Instead, WSOY is recognized for how it has presented this material. The core criticism is that WSOY, by publishing pseudoscientific works, has led the public to believe that these are factual accounts, blurring the line between knowledge and superstition. This is seen as detrimental to the general level of education.

The article contrasts WSOY with other publishers specializing in pseudoscience, arguing that readers of those publications are aware of the publisher's focus. However, WSOY, as a reputable publisher, lends its credibility to pseudoscientific content, thus misleading readers who trust its name. The committee acknowledges WSOY's economic motives but believes it's possible to publish such material without misleading people.

The article concludes this section by stating that every publishing decision is a cultural and political statement, especially when good non-fiction struggles for publication opportunities. A discussion between Skepsis representatives and WSOY's CEO and Vice President of Non-fiction Publishing revealed that WSOY defended its actions by citing the principle of pluralism in publishing, but Skepsis questioned why one should publish anything just because it can be published.

WSOY's management declined the prize, stating they did not deserve it. The prize will be kept in Skepsis's archives as a reminder of their cultural stance. The article notes that Skepsis intends to make the Huuhaa prize an annual award.

Skepsis Seminar: 'Are there any well-attested Paranormal phenomena?'

The bulk of the magazine is dedicated to reporting on the Skepsis seminar held at the University of Helsinki. The seminar featured several international and Finnish speakers.

Opening Remarks and the Skeptical Stance

Nils Mustelin, Chairman of Skepsis, opened the seminar, thanking the Academy of Finland for its support. He briefly touched upon Skepsis's attempts to connect with other Nordic skeptic organizations. Mustelin defined the core of skepticism as the belief that claims about paranormal powers or phenomena require rigorous investigation using the scientific method, a refined form of common sense.

Mustelin stated his personal view that there is no truly convincing evidence for any paranormal phenomenon. He explained that skepticism is maintained for several reasons: some unusual claims might contain useful elements (like acupuncture), the public attention given to paranormal claims necessitates a response, and it is important to understand why rational people might cling to disproven beliefs. He stressed the responsibility of the scientific community to disseminate correct information and to understand the psychological factors behind belief in the paranormal.

'The Rules of the Game' by S. Albert Kivinen

S. Albert Kivinen, Vice Chairman of Skepsis, presented on 'The Rules of the Game'. He defined a phenomenon as paranormal if it violates current scientific understanding and is contrary to common sense. He used the example of subatomic particle behavior, which can defy scientific understanding but isn't paranormal because it's not contrary to common sense. Table levitation under controlled conditions, however, could be considered paranormal. Kivinen's personal view is that paranormal phenomena might exist, but we can never know for sure, making them impossible to prove in controlled experiments.

Parapsychology and ESP Experiments by Robert Morris

Professor Robert Morris from the University of Edinburgh discussed the statistical significance of experiments in extrasensory perception (ESP). Morris noted that while the topic was technical, his lecture focused on factors for researchers to consider when designing ESP experiments. He highlighted potential pitfalls such as subtle communication between participants, intentional or unintentional cues, and the researcher's own interpretation of results. Morris stated that his own research suggests a 'weak signal' in ESP studies, but he refrained from concluding whether this indicates genuine ESP or something else. He emphasized that the field is moving towards more practical research designs.

Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs) by Susan Blackmore

Dr. Susan Blackmore discussed her research on out-of-body experiences (OBEs). She explained that OBEs can be understood as a shift in consciousness, often occurring near death or during meditation, where the normal perception of reality is replaced by an alternative, often bird's-eye view. Blackmore asserted that nothing physically leaves the body; rather, it's a change in the brain's memory and imagery.

Spontaneous Cases of Hauntings by Andrew MacKenzie

Author Andrew MacKenzie presented on the evidential value of spontaneous haunting cases. Despite poor acoustics, he conveyed that many reported hauntings remain unexplained, and the sheer volume of reliable reports means the phenomenon should not be dismissed lightly.

Astrology Debate: Geoffrey Dean vs. Kyösti Tarvainen

The second day of the seminar featured a debate on astrology. Dr. Geoffrey Dean, a physicist from Australia and a former professional astrologer, presented research challenging astrological claims. He acknowledged that astrology might be useful for some practitioners and clients, but scientific evidence for its claims was lacking. Kyösti Tarvainen, Chairman of the Finnish Astrological Association, defended astrology by referencing its historical proponents like Kepler and Galileo, and the complexity of interpreting astrological charts. Dean, however, countered that scientific evidence did not support astrological claims.

Dowsing and Earth Radiation

Emeritus Professor Nils Edelman discussed the history of dowsing and the search for mysterious earth radiation. He explained that dowsers often find water due to their experience and knowledge of geology, not due to any special sensitivity to 'earth veins', as water flows continuously underground. He also explained the physical mechanism behind the dowsing rod's movement as a result of muscle tension.

Professor Rolf Manne reported on experiments using dowsing rods for finding avalanche victims, concluding that more advanced technology or trained dogs would be more effective.

James Randi's Dowsing Challenge

Magician and skeptic James Randi presented his experiences testing dowsers. He set up a controlled experiment with a network of pipes and valves. In blind tests, dowsers failed to locate water consistently. Randi offered a $10,000 prize for anyone who could demonstrate a paranormal ability under controlled conditions, but the prize remained unclaimed.

Media Coverage and Public Reaction

The seminar received significant media attention, particularly from newspapers like Hufvudstadsbladet and Uusi Suomi, which covered the Huuhaa prize and Randi's challenge. Helsingin Sanomat published a cartoon by Kari Suomalainen referencing the event. Some journalists, like Erik Tunstad from Norway, were surprised by the positive coverage. The magazine notes that while the seminar was well-received, some Finnish 'science' publications ignored it.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for critical thinking and the scientific method in evaluating claims, particularly those related to pseudoscience. The 'Huuhaa-palkinto' serves as a public statement against the dissemination of misleading pseudoscientific information by reputable publishers. The seminar highlighted the ongoing debate between skeptical inquiry and paranormal claims, emphasizing the need for rigorous evidence and the dangers of accepting unsubstantiated beliefs. The magazine's stance is clearly pro-science and anti-pseudoscience, aiming to educate the public and uphold a higher standard of intellectual discourse.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, number 5 from Autumn 1989, features a collection of articles critically examining various pseudoscientific claims and phenomena. The magazine, published by Skepsis ry, focuses on skepticism and evidence-based reasoning.

Parapsychology and Communication Theory

The issue begins with an analysis of purported ESP phenomena through the lens of communication theory. Bob Morris is cited as suggesting that the high positive results often seen in ESP tests, particularly when individuals are in a state of 'mental silence,' can be explained by strengthening the signal and reducing systemic noise. While acknowledging that parapsychology may not be a flourishing field, the article suggests that Morris's work provides a framework for understanding these claims, and that the magazine will continue to follow developments in the field.

Astrology: A Lively Discussion at Skepsis Seminar

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a seminar on the empirical basis of paranormal phenomena, with a focus on astrology. The article, written by Nils Mustelin, details presentations by Dr. Geoffrey Dean from Australia and Kyösti Tarvainen, chairman of the Finnish Astrological Association. The core claim of astrology—that celestial positions influence earthly events and human personality—is presented. Dean, a former professional astrologer, shared his experience where he discovered astrology's perceived effectiveness was an illusion. He recounted an incident where he intentionally swapped birth charts for two friends, who then accepted the interpretations for the wrong charts, leading him to conclude that astrology's success was due to the human mind's tendency to find patterns and meaning.

Dean's subsequent research focused on finding objective evidence for astrology. He explained that while astrology proponents often resist statistical studies that isolate specific astrological factors, such studies are crucial for eliminating confounding variables. Using the analogy of diet pills, Dean illustrated how statistical analysis can reveal even small effects. He stated that numerous studies on astrological factors and personality have shown correlations smaller than 0.04, a level comparable to random chance, rendering astrology practically useless. He also noted that the actual correlation might be even lower, potentially zero.

Kyösti Tarvainen, while not directly refuting Dean's specific points, emphasized the importance of personal experience and the client's willingness to accept interpretations. He argued that clients often lack the self-awareness to critically evaluate astrological readings. The article notes that Tarvainen seemed to place little value on statistical studies that contradicted astrological rules, suggesting that personal conviction is a primary argument for astrology's proponents.

The ensuing discussion highlighted the strong conviction of astrology's supporters, with some emphasizing systematic training. The article questions whether this training aims to develop critical thinking or indoctrinate individuals. A key moment in the discussion was Dean's question to an astrology defender: "What evidence would you accept as proof that the astrological system is flawed?" The response, "None whatsoever!" led Dean to conclude that if nothing can prove astrology wrong, then nothing can prove it right. The article concludes that astrology, when empirical evidence contradicts its claims, operates outside the realm of conventional science, behaving more like a belief system where the map (astrology) is considered more valid than the territory (reality).

Why Astrology Seems to Work

Written by Timo Kaitaro, this article explores the reasons behind astrology's apparent effectiveness. It suggests that astrologers, through their work, gain extensive knowledge of human personality, similar to clinical psychologists. This information can be structured into a 'schema' that helps organize and recall details about individuals. Cognitive psychology suggests that information fitting existing schemas is easier to remember, which could explain the persistence of astrological beliefs. The article posits that the 'projective element' in astrological interpretation is key. When an astrologer interviews a client, they can unconsciously use the client's responses and their own human intuition to interpret the birth chart. Furthermore, clients interpret the astrological readings based on their own expectations, fears, and self-image, making the process subjective.

This subjective interpretation, combined with the general knowledge of astrological personality traits, can create a self-reinforcing cycle. The article suggests that the failure of astrological predictions is not a sign of paranormal activity but rather a result of these psychological mechanisms. Experienced astrologers may also accumulate a significant amount of practical psychological knowledge over time, which they apply in their readings. The article also touches upon astrology as a form of pseudo-psychotherapy, where clients find validation for existing traits and project their hopes and desires onto the interpretations.

Homo Ludens and Divination

This section extends the discussion on divination, suggesting that the therapeutic benefits of practices like astrology or tarot readings are independent of belief in supernatural powers. The article argues that these practices can fulfill therapeutic roles by allowing individuals to project their own thoughts, hopes, and subconscious desires onto the interpretations. It suggests that one's own psyche, combined with the psyche of the diviner and chance, might be more effective in navigating the future than astrological charts. The article likens these practices to a game, emphasizing the role of subjective meaning-making and the human tendency to find patterns in coincidences, similar to the surrealist concept of 'objective chance.'

James Randi Fights Against Charlatans

Written by Hannu Karttunen, this article profiles magician James Randi, a co-founder of CSICOP, who dedicates his work to exposing pseudoscientific phenomena and hoaxes. Randi is known for his books and his $10,000 challenge to anyone who can demonstrate paranormal abilities under controlled conditions. The article describes Randi's experiments with dowsers, showing how their success rates dropped to chance levels when the experiments were conducted under controlled, blinded conditions. Randi believes that most people who claim paranormal abilities are sincere but mistaken, and that controlled tests serve to remind the public to maintain healthy skepticism. He highlights faith healers and 'miracle workers' as particularly dangerous charlatans who exploit people's vulnerabilities for financial gain.

The article details Randi's exposure of faith healer Peter Popoff, who was caught receiving secret messages via radio from his wife during his 'healing' sessions. Randi also discusses 'bloodless surgery' performed by Filipino healers, exposing it as a trick where internal organs are pulled out, but no actual surgical marks are left. The case of actor Peter Sellers, who delayed a necessary surgery due to such a healer, is mentioned as a tragic example of the dangers of these practices.

Randi's public lecture in Porthania attracted a large audience, with his message being grim: many people neglect proper medical care in favor of charlatans. The article concludes by emphasizing that while individual belief is one thing, endangering children's lives through such practices makes the believer complicit in a crime.

The Voronezh UFOs

Also written by Hannu Karttunen, this article reports on the Voronezh UFO incident. In October 1989, the Soviet news agency Tass reported a UFO landing in a park in Voronezh, from which a tall, three-eyed entity and a small robot emerged. Subsequent reports indicated multiple sightings in September, with entities described as 3-4 meters tall. One account describes the entity pointing a weapon at a child, causing them to disappear and reappear. Evidence presented included two stones not from Earth, and a geophysicist claimed to have traced the landing site with a biotrac-tor.

The article points out several suspicious aspects of the case, including the initial witnesses being children, with adult accounts emerging later. Researchers reportedly had difficulty interviewing the children. A photograph published in Komsomolskaja Pravda and Helsingin Sanomat, purportedly of a UFO, was described as appearing to show a skier, with a round disc in the background whose origin is unclear and could be a lens flare or reflection. The 'biotrac-tor' is described as a bent copper pipe, akin to a modern dowsing rod. The article questions whether the opening up of Soviet media due to glasnost will lead to the adoption of negative aspects of Western media practices.

Skepsis Announcements

This section provides updates from Skepsis. It informs readers that paying the 1989 subscription fee will grant access to all issues of the year (numbers 2, 3, 4, and 5). It also mentions that due to delivery issues, some members may not have received all their issues and encourages them to contact the editor. Upcoming lectures are announced: Heikki Räisänen will speak on the interpretation of ancient texts on November 22nd, and Nils Edelman will discuss the Atlantis myth on December 13th. The spring lecture series is still being planned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical and evidence-based approach to understanding phenomena. It critically examines claims of the paranormal, pseudoscience, and unexplained events, seeking rational and scientific explanations. The editorial stance is clearly against unfounded beliefs and highlights the dangers of charlatanism and the importance of critical thinking. The magazine aims to educate its readers about the flaws in pseudoscientific reasoning and to encourage a healthy skepticism towards extraordinary claims.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 5
Date: Autumn 1989

This issue of Skeptikko focuses on information for potential members of the Finnish skeptical organization, Skepsis. It includes a membership application form and details the organization's purpose and principles.

Membership Application

The magazine provides a detailed application form for those wishing to join Skepsis. Applicants are asked to provide their full name, profession and academic title, home address, postal code, and phone number. They are also requested to supply details about their workplace, including address and phone number. Furthermore, applicants must describe their experience with topics related to Skepsis's field, any relevant publications they may have, memberships in other scientific societies, and their specific areas of interest. Applicants are informed that they can use a separate sheet of paper if more space is needed.

The application concludes with a declaration: "I accept the purpose and principles defined in the statutes of the Skepsis association (see back cover) and wish to join the association as a member." This is followed by fields for the date and signature.

About Skepsis Organization

Page 2 elaborates on the Skepsis organization itself. It states that Skepsis was founded in 1987 as an association of Finnish skeptics. Its operating principles are similar to those of the American CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), although Skepsis functions entirely independently, while collaborating with CSICOP and other similar organizations.

The stated purposes and principles of Skepsis, as outlined in its statutes, are:

• Promote Objective Investigation: To promote the objective and unbiased scientific investigation of claims concerning paranormal phenomena, without taking a stance on the validity of these claims based on prior, pre-investigation assumptions.
• Network Building: To maintain a network of people interested in such research and to keep in contact with similar communities both domestically and internationally.
• Publication: To publish articles and books that investigate claims of paranormal phenomena, and to compile bibliographies of publications containing such claims.
• Education and Outreach: To organize meetings and conferences related to the field and to engage in public education and information activities.

The organization emphasizes its neutrality, stating that it is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated.

The board of Skepsis is authorized to accept individuals and legally capable organizations as members upon application, provided they accept the aforementioned principles of the association.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is membership recruitment and organizational information for Skepsis. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of promoting scientific skepticism and objective investigation of paranormal claims, as evidenced by the organization's stated principles and its alignment with CSICOP's mission. The magazine acts as an informational tool for the organization, encouraging public participation in its activities.