09-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 9
Date: Autumn/Winter 1990
Publisher: Skepsis
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
ISSN: 0786-2571

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish skeptical magazine, delves into various topics that challenge pseudoscientific and occult beliefs, with a particular focus on the rise of occult movements, the controversial Steiner education system, and a critical examination of a pseudoscientific health device.

Articles and Content

Occultism and Steiner Schools (Nils Mustelin)

The first major article, "Okkultismi ja Steiner-koulut" (Occultism and Steiner Schools) by Nils Mustelin, addresses the growing popularity of occult movements. Mustelin posits that these movements serve as a substitute for traditional religions in modern Western societies, which are perceived as increasingly complex and stressful. He argues that occult movements offer comforting, ready-made answers to life's fundamental questions, appealing to individuals who prioritize the content of beliefs over the methods of acquiring knowledge. The article highlights the common marketing tactics of these movements, employing terms like "holistic," "positive," "cosmic," and "natural." Mustelin criticizes the often fervent anti-scientific stance of these movements, noting that they frequently accuse scientists of dogma and fundamentalism, ironically mirroring the characteristics of the occult movements themselves.

The article then focuses on Anthroposophy, founded by Rudolf Steiner, which is presented as one of the most influential occultist thought systems. The context of a legislative proposal in Finland concerning Steiner schools makes Steiner particularly relevant. Despite Steiner calling his movement "spiritual science," Mustelin characterizes Anthroposophy as a mythological-dogmatic belief system, replete with concepts of demons, nature spirits, and layered realities perceived through "imaginative, inspirational, and intuitive" means. A key point of contention is Steiner's claim to have provided definitive answers about the material universe using spiritual methods, even addressing scientific questions about atomic structure and Einstein's theories with what Mustelin describes as "bottomless naivety."

Steiner's teachings have led to practical applications such as biodynamic farming (linked to astrological occultism), anthroposophical medicine (which, alongside harmless homeopathic remedies, also promotes the use of toxic heavy metals), and Steiner pedagogy, the educational philosophy behind Steiner schools. The article discusses the Finnish legislative proposal to significantly increase state funding for Steiner schools. While proponents argue that Steiner pedagogy is merely an alternative teaching method free from indoctrination, the article expresses concern that if these schools serve as strongholds for the anthroposophical movement, they could promote occultist thinking and anti-scientific attitudes among students. Evidence cited suggests that while most teachers may not be adherents of anthroposophy, some individuals familiar with the schools have reported the insidious infiltration of occultist attitudes into young, impressionable minds. The close ties between Steiner schools and various anthroposophical organizations, such as the Snellman College which includes biodynamic farming in its curriculum, are also highlighted as concerning.

Steiner's own views on education are quoted, suggesting that all educational matters should be guided by knowledge of humanity's relationship to the cosmos. The article concludes this section by emphasizing the societal challenges of today and the need for deeper, more reliable knowledge, as well as critical thinking skills. It warns against teaching children to despise empirical science and uncritically accept the grand fantasies of anthroposophists and other occultists, as this robs them of the ability to correct their own mistakes.

The Small Miracle of Medicine, The Biogenerator! (Veijo Saano)

This article by Veijo Saano critically examines the "Bio-Generator" (BG), a device marketed as a small, environmentally friendly, portable biomagnetic field generator. The article exposes how this pseudoscientific product is marketed with exaggerated claims of effectiveness for a wide range of ailments, including headaches, sensitivity to weather, nervousness, stress, insomnia, rheumatism, asthma, and general well-being. The BG is described as being the size of a matchbox, weighing about 10 grams, and having a year's warranty. It is claimed to have two modes of operation, with different applications for various conditions, such as inflammation, circulation, and nervous disorders.

Saano contrasts the marketing of the BG with the principles of clinical pharmacology, where new drugs are rigorously tested for efficacy and safety. He points out that the BG's manufacturer claims it can cure ailments by correcting disruptions in the body's magnetic fields, drawing on a worldview where "everything is vibration." The article questions the scientific basis for these claims, noting that the manufacturer's literature cites studies, including one from Tübingen University, but provides insufficient details for independent verification. The author highlights the lack of published research and the absence of a list of studies, suggesting that the device might be a modern iteration of a "humbug device."

The article also discusses the psychological aspect of marketing such devices, referencing Umberto Eco's observation that people "are starved for plans" and readily accept explanations for their problems. The BG's marketing exploits this by offering a theory of illness, such as "weather sensitivity" or "low blood pressure," and then presenting the BG as the solution. The article points out that many of the claimed "ailments" are common, everyday experiences rather than serious diseases, and that the marketing capitalizes on people's tendency to interpret minor symptoms as signs of serious illness.

Other Content

Table of Contents (Sisällys): The issue includes articles on "Occultism and Steiner Schools," "The Small Miracle of Medicine, Biogenerator!," "Huuhaa-palkinto" (Nonsense Award), "News," and "Letters to the Editor." It also features an "English summary."

Editorial Stance: The magazine explicitly states that the opinions expressed in its articles are those of the authors and do not represent the official stance of the editorial board or CSICOP.

Editorial Board and Contact Information: The issue lists the members of the Skepsis board, including Nils Mustelin as chairman and Hannu Karttunen as editor-in-chief. Contact details for inquiries about membership, subscriptions, and editorial matters are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are skepticism towards pseudoscience, occultism, and unverified health claims. The magazine strongly advocates for critical thinking, scientific evidence, and empirical research as the basis for understanding the world and making informed decisions, particularly in areas of education and health. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting rational inquiry and debunking pseudoscientific narratives that prey on people's anxieties and desire for simple answers.

This issue of Skeptikko, number 9 from Autumn/Winter 1990, is a Finnish-language publication from the publisher Skeptikko, with ISSN 0783-0871. It focuses on critical examination of pseudoscientific claims and parapsychological research.

Biogeneraattori: A Critical Review

The issue critically examines the Biogeneraattori (BG) device, a product marketed for treating migraines, weather sensitivity, and headaches. A study by Rainer B. Pelkan (9/1988) is presented, claiming a 76% symptom relief rate for users of the active BG device compared to only 2.4% in a placebo group. However, the article immediately questions the reliability and sufficiency of this evidence.

Methodological Criticisms of the BG Study

The study's methodology is heavily criticized. It used parallel groups with 41 subjects each, where participants did not know if they had the active or placebo device. The author points out the difficulty in measuring subjective symptoms and suggests a larger sample size and a crossover design would be more appropriate. The article states that the study's overall conclusion is unreliable due to vague literature references and the inclusion of a wide range of symptoms (insomnia, concentration difficulties, sensory or motor disorders, muscle cramps, menstrual problems) beyond the primary conditions treated.

The measurement methods are described as poorly documented. It is unclear how often patients were interviewed, what techniques were used, how symptom severity was classified, or where the numerical results originated. Statistical deviations are missing, and it's not clear if the observed changes were clinically significant. Blood sample laboratory values taken at the beginning and end of the study are also absent from the relevant table.

The BG Device and Pseudoscience Criteria

Further critique is leveled at the study's conclusion that increased blood circulation from the BG device leads to improved oxygenation and vitality. The study did not measure blood circulation, tissue oxygenation, or vitality. The author argues that even a flawless study by Pelkan would not be sufficient to prove the BG's effectiveness, as evidence is lacking for most of its claimed uses, and safety data is absent.

The article then assesses the Biogeneraattori against 12 criteria for pseudoscientific treatments, as published by the American Cancer Society. The BG device reportedly meets at least 7 of these criteria:

1. Lack of scientific approval: BG treatments are not approved by scientific institutions or associations.
2. Non-standard communication: The device's proponents do not use reputable channels to publish research findings.
3. Complex language: The BG's marketing materials use complex, "scientific-sounding" jargon.
4. Insufficient data: Detailed records of study costs and results are scarce or missing. The two mentioned BG studies are inadequately reported.
5. Vague diagnoses and subjective evaluation: Diagnoses are vague, and results are based solely on patient self-reports. Objective verification of symptoms is impossible, and changes are not reliably measured.
6. Ambiguous titles: Those promoting the device use vague titles, sometimes holding multiple different ones.
7. Appeals to authority/popularity: The marketing claims the BG has given millions of people new hope and mentions "NASA testing" as a testament to its effectiveness, similar to how an energy drink was marketed with a VTT (Technical Research Centre of Finland) test that only confirmed its chemical composition.

Permanent Paranormal Objects (PPOs)

The issue also discusses the concept of Permanent Paranormal Objects (PPOs). These are objects claimed to be produced by paranormal abilities, serving as alternative evidence for such phenomena. Bernard Wält's article is mentioned, describing an object based on topological impossibility, with historical examples like Henri Slade's and Margery's alleged creations. However, these objects are no longer available, and their creation circumstances are unclear. The article notes that similar objects, like Welsh love spoons, can be explained by traditional craftsmanship rather than paranormal means.

A specific object attributed to Silvio, who allegedly has psychokinetic abilities, is described. It consists of interlocking quadrangular "rings" made from aluminum foil and paper. The author finds it difficult to explain how this object could be created without leaving traces, especially given the heat required to join aluminum foil, which would burn paper. Material analysis at a Swiss research center found no signs of joints.

The Turin Shroud and Other Parapsychological Topics

The Turin Shroud is discussed in an article by César Tort, which notes that carbon dating places the shroud in the medieval period, contradicting its claim to be Jesus's original burial cloth. Tort attempts to explain anomalies on the shroud, such as wounds on the wrists rather than palms, and rigor mortis effects, using concepts like "retrocognitive thoughtography" and requiring extraordinary ESP and macro-PK abilities. This explanation is met with criticism for its speculative nature.

Other topics covered include studies on children's out-of-body experiences (OBEs) by Susan Blackmore and Robin C. Wooffit, which suggest that OBEs are rare in children and support psychological theories of OBEs as cognitive experiences rather than actual soul travel. A case study by D. Scott Rogo involving a symbolic dream and a crisis apparition related to an AIDS patient's death is also presented, though its significance as evidence for telepathy or survival after death is deemed minimal.

Pavel Stepanek's Abilities Re-examined

An article reviews studies on Pavel Stepanek, who was alleged to have extrasensory perception (ESP) abilities. After a 17-year gap, new research in Amsterdam found no evidence of these abilities. This is seen as a victory for skeptics like Martin Gardner, who had previously suggested Stepanek might have employed trickery.

Telepathy and Mind-Brain Dualism

Philosopher Frank B. Dilleyn's article "Telepathy and Mind-Brain Dualism" is mentioned, which argues for telepathy as a specialized form of clairvoyance and psychokinesis, linked to mind-brain interaction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance towards paranormal claims and alternative medicine. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, peer review, and replicable evidence. The editorial stance is that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence, and in the absence of such evidence, treatments and phenomena should be considered ineffective or even dangerous. The publication aims to debunk pseudoscience and promote critical thinking, as exemplified by its detailed critiques of the Biogeneraattori study and its examination of parapsychological research through a skeptical lens.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 9
Volume: syksy/talvi 1990 (Autumn/Winter 1990)
Publisher: Skepsis ry.
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko magazine focuses on the prevalence of waking hallucinations, the awarding of the 'Huuhaa' prize for promoting pseudoscience, and the establishment of Skepsis's scientific advisory board.

Waking Hallucinations and Apparitions

The issue begins with an article discussing the prevalence of waking hallucinations, particularly 'apparitions' where a person is seen but is not physically present. A recent study, similar to one conducted a century ago by the Society for Psychical Research, aimed to determine how common these experiences are. The earlier study found that nearly 10% of respondents reported such experiences. The new survey, excluding those under the influence of medication, drugs, or alcohol, found that 14% responded affirmatively. After excluding uncertain cases, the result was 11.3%, which is comparable to the earlier findings. Notably, apparitions linked to the time of a person's death, often explained by telepathy theories (like those of Guerne and Tyrrel), were not reported in this new survey. Instead, some collective apparitions, where multiple people experience the same hallucination, were reported. The article concludes that while the study's contribution to proving paranormal phenomena is limited, the prevalence of waking hallucinations is significant. It suggests that, similar to out-of-body experiences, the commonality of these phenomena might surprise people because they are not always openly discussed, leading to an impression of rarity.

Skepsis's Huuhaa Award

The magazine details the awarding of Skepsis ry.'s 'Huuhaa' prize. On November 24, 1990, at the University of Helsinki's Porthania, Skepsis presented its second Huuhaa award to the Vantaa Adult Education Centre for teaching astrology and graphology under the guise of science. Additionally, a 'Huuhaa' honorable mention was given to all publicly funded educational institutions that uncritically spread pseudoscience and superstition.

Professor Nils Mustelin, chairman of Skepsis, presented the award's justification. He acknowledged the valuable educational work done by adult education centres in Finland, noting that most of their courses are factual and beneficial. However, he pointed out a growing trend of courses in pseudoscience, such as astrology, graphology, and alternative medicine, appearing in their curricula. Mustelin emphasized that if an institution offers courses like astrology, it should clearly state that these are based on beliefs, not empirical scientific findings. He criticized the Vantaa Adult Education Centre for classifying astrology under 'Education and Psychology' and for describing it as an 'ancient field of research' that offers new insights into human behavior when combined with modern psychology. The article highlights that astrology and graphology are increasingly used in hiring processes, despite a lack of scientific evidence linking them to personality traits or handwriting. Skepsis argues that using these pseudoscientific methods for selection is comparable to using skin color as a criterion and that promoting such practices infringes on people's legal rights.

Skepsis believes that adult education centres, funded by taxpayers, should focus on analyzing superstition critically rather than supporting it. Therefore, the Huuhaa honorable mention was given to all publicly funded institutions that spread pseudoscience without critical evaluation.

Recognition for Contributions to Public Discourse

During the Huuhaa award ceremony, Nils Mustelin also expressed special thanks to Aaro Heikkilä, the mayor of Joensuu, and Dr. Matti A. Miettinen. Heikkilä was recognized for his courageous and critical participation in the discussion surrounding 'Steiner education,' particularly concerning the proposed increase in state funding for Steiner schools. Heikkilä brought attention to the strong connection between Steiner schools and anthroposophical organizations, which promote pseudoscientific and occult beliefs. The article notes that claims that Steiner schools are merely a different pedagogical approach and not a form of indoctrination into anthroposophical beliefs are controversial and require thorough investigation.

Matti A. Miettinen's doctoral dissertation on Niilo Yli-Vainio's faith healing work brought a taboo subject into open scientific discussion. His work provided the public with new and illuminating information about the nature of faith healing, sparking considerable debate.

Scientific Advisory Board Established

The issue announces the formation of Skepsis's scientific advisory board, with Docent S. Albert Kivinen serving as its chairman. The board comprises a distinguished group of professors and researchers from various fields, including Nils Edelman, Kari Enqvist, Harry Halen, Pertti Hemánus, Raimo Keskinen, Kirsti Lagerspetz, Raimo Lehti, Anto Leikola, Matti A. Miettinen, Ilkka Niiniluoto, Heikki Oja, Heikki Räisänen, Anssi Saura, Tytti Sutela, Raimo Tuomela, Yrjö Vasari, Johan von Wright, and Risto Vuorinen.

The first meeting of the advisory board was dedicated to introducing Skepsis and the board to each other. The discussions, summarized by the secretary, covered the expectations members had for Skepsis. Docent Risto Vuorinen approached the topic from a psychological perspective, emphasizing the need to understand human irrationality at both societal and individual levels. He suggested a positive award for individuals who demonstrate civil courage against societal irrationality. Matti Virtanen responded that two positive honorable mentions had already been incorporated into the Huuhaa award this year.

Professor Anssi Saura discussed the topic from a biological standpoint, particularly concerning creationism. He noted that science and the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church are aligned against various free-church creationist groups, and there is no inherent conflict between evolution and faith. Saura also mentioned the influence of apocalyptic visions on human motivation, suggesting that if the end is perceived as imminent, people may act recklessly. He also touched upon Lysenkoism and the potential rise of irrationalism following the decline of Marxism in Eastern Europe.

Professor Ilkka Niiniluoto stressed that Skepsis's activities should extend beyond lectures and publications to reach broader audiences through the media. He proposed a regular 'Skeptikko column' in weekly magazines as a counterpoint to astrology columns and suggested television as an effective channel. Niiniluoto also highlighted the importance of addressing ethical issues related to science, noting how New Age movements often frame their claims in moral terms and question the limitations of a scientific worldview. He urged scientists to articulate their concern for moral issues.

Professor Raimo Lehti discussed the ongoing conflict between scientific rationality and its opponents, suggesting that scientists themselves might contribute to this backlash. He cited the labeling of Velikovsky's opponents as rigid dogmatists. The discussion also touched upon how populists can exploit features of scientific presentation and language that alienate the public, making it easier for them to gain sympathy for perceived outsiders.

Professor Nils Edelman proposed a lecture topic on how scientific thinking differs from pseudoscientific thinking. Anssi Saura added that arrogance within science, such as claims from molecular biology that it holds solutions to nearly all problems, should also be addressed.

Professor Johan von Wright expressed interest in individual irrationality and the basis of people's beliefs in different explanatory models. He suggested historical overviews of creationism and similar themes in lecture series, focusing on the evidence presented for these beliefs.

The discussion then moved to concrete action plans, including the idea of informational presentations for schools. It was decided that the advisory board would meet again in early spring to develop more detailed plans. A recurring concern was the risk of Skepsis becoming too academic and detached from the public. The goal is to promote critical and scientific thinking beyond academic circles, making science understandable, interesting, and even enjoyable through successful popularization.

News and Controversies

News: Matti Virtanen reports on the formation of the scientific advisory board.

Controversy over Niiniluoto: Professor Ilkka Niiniluoto's lecture as a guest speaker for Skepsis led to the resignation of two members. Erkki Hartikainen, chairman of the Finnish Atheist Association, cited three reasons: Skepsis's perceived reluctance to take a stance on religious matters like Steinerism, the underestimation of Dr. Pertti Lindfors's expertise, and the invitation of Ilkka Niiniluoto, described as a dogmatic agnostic, to lecture on a topic he was not an expert in. Pentti Kähkönen also resigned, believing Niiniluoto was not a suitable lecturer for the topic 'Doubt, knowledge, and faith.' The article notes that the board considers these resignations a matter of discussion rather than dispute. The resignations highlight the ongoing debate within skeptical communities about how to approach religions and belief systems.

Vantaa Adult Education Centre's Response: Following the Huuhaa award, the Vantaa Adult Education Centre was offered a chance to respond in Skeptikko magazine, but no reply was received. However, the centre's principal, Osmo Hyytiä, stated in an interview with Helsingin Sanomat on November 30 that the astrology course would be moved from the 'Education and Psychology' section to 'Religion, Philosophy, and Worldview.' Hyytiä defended this by stating that the centre offers 1300 courses annually, and it is impossible for the principal to oversee all of them.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko strongly advocates for scientific literacy and critical thinking. It actively challenges pseudoscience, particularly in the context of educational institutions, and highlights the importance of distinguishing between belief systems and scientific evidence. The magazine also emphasizes the need for skepticism to engage with the public more effectively, making scientific concepts accessible and interesting. The debate surrounding Professor Niiniluoto's lecture reveals internal discussions within the skeptical movement regarding the boundaries of skepticism, especially concerning religious beliefs and the definition of expertise.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 9
Date: Autumn/Winter 1990
Publisher: Skepsis (Finnish Skeptics Society)
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

Key Articles and Content

Kuka tuntee Flier X:n? (Who Knows Flier X?)

The magazine begins with a call for information regarding two Scandinavian UFO sightings. Sociologist Robert E. Bartholomew from The Flinders University of South Australia, who recently defended his doctoral thesis on 'The Social history of mass hysteria and UFOs', is seeking details about 'Flier X' sightings in Scandinavia from 1933-1938 and 'Ghost rocket' sightings from 1946-1947. He urges any Finnish individuals with knowledge of these cases or UFO history to contact him at his US address.

1991 Euroopan Skeptikkojen Kokous (1991 European Skeptics Conference)

The Finnish Skeptics Society, Skepsis, has received an invitation for its member organizations to attend the European Skeptics Conference in Amsterdam in October 1991. Preparations are underway, and Skeptikko magazine will publish an invitation for speakers to present at the conference. The event is scheduled for Friday, October 4th, and Saturday, October 5th, 1991, in Amsterdam. The conference will be conducted in English and is aimed at laypeople interested in science. Presentations should be approximately 35 minutes long, followed by a 10-minute discussion.

Potential speakers are asked to submit a summary of their presentation by April 15th and the full written presentation by the beginning of October. The organizers prefer oral presentations to be a condensed version of the written one. Presentations should ideally cover recent research or empirical data of interest to skeptics. While there is no overarching theme, due to European integration, particular attention is requested for topics such as:

• Government or institutional (e.g., insurance companies) attitudes towards pseudoscientific and paranormal phenomena, encompassing legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
• The financing of paranormal research, including areas like geopathy and alternative medicine.
• Taxation issues, such as how the tax authorities view items like dowsing rods, astrological advice, or psychics, and whether these expenses are tax-deductible.

Summaries and presentations should be sent directly to the conference organizers: Jan Willem Nienhuys, Dommelseweg 1A, 5581 VA Waalre, The Netherlands.

Lukijoilta (From the Readers)

Tervehdys Tuusulasta (Greetings from Tuusula)

A member named R. Wickholm from Tuusula has sent a letter to Skepsis members proposing a theory to explain hauntings. Wickholm suggests that hallucinogenic substances similar to LSD could be present in abandoned houses or other damp wooden structures, as LSD is derived from ergot, a type of fungus. He outlines a scenario where a person spending the night in a haunted house, exposed to wind and fungal spores containing psychoactive compounds, might hallucinate UFOs landing outside.

Joulupakina (Christmas Story)

A second reader's letter comes from Pertti Juvonen of Espoo, presented as a Christmas-themed piece, though not directly related to Christmas.

Yliluonnollinen ilmiö (Supernatural Phenomenon)

Docent Hugo Uljas Itikainen, a self-proclaimed wise man, poses a question about dice probability. He wonders if the probability of rolling a six increases after several rolls without a six appearing. He then explores the concept of whether a die 'remembers' past results or if the 'memory' stays with the thrower, questioning if dice retain their 'luck' when exchanged between throwers. He considers this a supernatural phenomenon, as the dice themselves are physically identical. He is seriously considering responding to Skepsis's 10,000 mk challenge regarding this matter.

Itikainen also lists two of his publications: "Tilastotappion merkitys potkupallossa" (The significance of statistical loss in kickball) and "Tavallista lämpimämmän alkuvuoden vaikutus loppuvuoden lämpötilaan" (The effect of a warmer than usual early year on the temperature of the latter part of the year).

Apua! (Help!)

The editorial staff of Skeptikko, and the entire board, are experiencing a severe time shortage, preventing them from dedicating sufficient time to their hobbies. They are seeking members who can assist the editorial team by collecting and editing articles, monitoring various fringe science fields, and other tasks. The required skills include strong written expression, persistence, precision, critical thinking, intelligence, strong self-esteem, language proficiency, skepticism, and diligence. As compensation, volunteers receive a couple of free magazine copies and, if successful, a malicious mention in the Ultra magazine. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the editor-in-chief, Hannu Karttunen.

Seuraava lehti (Next Issue)

The next issue is expected in February. The editorial team has gathered material related to graphology and correspondence for publication in the upcoming issue.

The magazine concludes with a holiday greeting, wishing readers a Merry Christmas and a skeptical New Year, acknowledging the religious and paranormal aspects often associated with Christmas (e.g., Santa Claus).

Advertisement for The Skeptical Inquirer

Page 36 features a cartoon and an advertisement for The Skeptical Inquirer, a publication from CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal). It is described as a magazine with four over-100-page issues annually. Subscription details and an order form are provided, including US and international pricing and contact information for ordering.

Membership Application

Pages 37 and 38 contain information and a form for joining Skepsis. The magazine details how to become a member by sending a completed application form to Timo Kaitaro, the secretary of Skepsis. The form requests personal details, professional background, contact information, and a description of relevant experience or interests. It also includes a statement of acceptance of the organization's principles.

English Summary

Occultism and Steiner schools, Nils Mustelin: This section discusses a potential law that could provide public support for Steiner schools. Skeptics are concerned that the occultistic elements within Steiner's philosophy might be incorporated into school curricula.

Biogenerator, Veijo Saano: An advertisement for a biogenerator is reviewed. The device claims to heal diseases by sending magnetic vibrations. The provided data is noted as being consistent with quackery.

Review of SPR publications, Timo Kaitaro: This section highlights recent topics from SPR (Society for Psychical Research) publications, including permanent paranormal objects (topologically impossible objects like linked rings without visible joining), the alleged ESP ability of Pavel Stepanek, and hallucinations.

The Flimflam award: The 1990 Flimflam award was presented to Vantaan työväenopisto, an adult education institute offering courses in astrology and graphology under the Education and Psychology departments.

The scientific committee: Skepsis has invited several prominent scientists to form a scientific committee to aid in long-term planning and provide scientific advice.

Skepsis Organization Information

Skepsis, founded in 1987, is a Finnish organization of skeptics. Its operating principles are similar to those of the US-based CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), though it operates independently while collaborating with CSICOP and similar organizations.

The organization's stated purposes are:

• To promote objective and unbiased scientific research into claims of paranormal phenomena, without making prior judgments on their validity.
• To maintain a network of individuals interested in such research and to liaise with similar communities domestically and internationally.
• To publish articles and books investigating claims of paranormal phenomena, and to compile bibliographies of relevant publications.
• To organize meetings and conferences related to the field and to engage in public education and information dissemination.

Skepsis is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. The board can approve applications from individuals and legal entities who agree with the organization's principles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical approach to paranormal claims, emphasizing scientific investigation, critical thinking, and the importance of empirical evidence. The editorial stance is clearly against pseudoscience and quackery, as evidenced by the reviews of the Biogenerator and the Flimflam award. The publication also serves as a platform for communication among skeptics, announcing conferences, soliciting reader contributions, and providing information about the Skepsis organization itself. The recurring theme is the promotion of rational inquiry and the debunking of unsubstantiated claims.