10-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 10
Date: Winter 1991
Publisher: Skepsis
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, the Finnish skeptical magazine, delves into various topics, primarily focusing on the critique of pseudoscientific claims and practices, alongside commentary on Finnish society and scientific endeavors.

Editorial and Organizational Information

The magazine lists the board of Skepsis, including Chairman Nils Mustelin, Editor-in-Chief Hannu Karttunen (also Vice-Chairman), Secretary Timo Kaitaro, Treasurer Matti Virtanen, and board member Ilkka Tuomi. The Scientific Advisory Board is extensive, featuring numerous professors and docents from various fields, with S. Albert Kivinen serving as its chairman. Contact information for membership, subscriptions, and general inquiries is provided, directing correspondence to Timo Kaitaro. The editorial team for Skeptikko itself consists of Editor-in-Chief Hannu Karttunen, with Matti Virtanen and Nils Mustelin as other members of the editorial board. Hannu Karttunen can be reached at a specific phone number and postal address for his editorial duties.

The ISSN for the publication is 0786-2571.

Articles and Content

"Tympäisee" by Hannu Karttunen

This article by the editor-in-chief expresses a sense of stagnation and disappointment with the state of affairs in Finland. Karttunen notes the international recommendation for Finland to be the best-educated European nation in twenty years, but observes that current developments are not encouraging. He highlights the quiet passage of a law concerning Steiner schools, suggesting a lack of public debate. The article criticizes the pressure on universities to focus on results-based funding, which may harm basic research. Specific examples include drastic cuts to the Observatory's teaching budget at the University of Helsinki and a 15 million markka cut from the Finnish Academy's budget. The financial difficulties of the science center Heureka are also mentioned. Karttunen laments the long struggle to acquire a supercomputer for researchers, noting its cost is less than that of a fighter jet. He also expresses cynicism towards politicians, particularly regarding tax reforms. The article concludes with Karttunen's personal decision to leave Finland and resign from the Skepsis board, thanking the readers for their support.

"Astrologia, taikausko ja moraali" by Nils Mustelin

This lengthy article critically examines astrology. Mustelin begins by referencing Skepsis's "Huuhaa-palkinto" (Nonsense Award) given to a Vantaa adult education center for teaching astrology and graphology under the guise of science. He details the strong negative reaction from the Finnish Astrological Association, whose chairman, Docent Kyösti Tarvainen, sent heated letters to Skepsis and the Helsingin Sanomat newspaper. Tarvainen defended astrology as an "experience-based science" and a "great achievement of experience-based humanistic research," accusing Skepsis of ignorance for labeling it pseudoscience, belief, and superstition.

Mustelin counters Tarvainen's claims by tracing astrology's roots to ancient Babylonians, who meticulously recorded celestial events alongside earthly occurrences. Tarvainen argues that from this vast observational data, correlations and concepts were distilled that proved to be correct. However, Mustelin points out that if even one valid astrological rule could be found, it would be easily verifiable with modern statistical methods. He questions what statistical and scientific methods have revealed, citing the work of Hans J. Eysenck, Michel Gauquelin, and Geoffrey Dean.

According to Mustelin, Eysenck and Nias, in their book "Astrology: Science or Superstition?", concluded that no carefully conducted scientific studies with sufficient sample sizes, properly reported and replicable, have supported the claims of traditional astrology. Mustelin wonders if Eysenck and Nias are also accused of ignorance regarding astrology's historical basis for using the term "beliefs."

Michel Gauquelin, described by Tarvainen as a pioneer in the statistical study of astrology, is often cited by astrologers as having scientifically proven astrology's validity. This is based on his "Mars effect," which suggests that the position of Mars at the time of a top athlete's birth statistically deviates from chance. Mustelin notes that Gauquelin's reported correlations are too small to be useful, and other researchers have found contradictory results. He points out that even if the Mars effect were undeniable, it would not necessarily support traditional astrological interpretations. Furthermore, some astrologers dismiss attempts to study isolated astrological factors as nonsensical and mocking of astrology.

Crucially, Mustelin highlights that many astrologers who praise Gauquelin for proving astrology's accuracy remain silent about his other findings. Gauquelin himself stated in "The Cosmic Clocks" (1967) that all attempts by astrologers to defend the claim that celestial movements can predict future events have failed. He asserted that statistical studies have irrevocably disproven old claims, and anyone claiming to predict the future by looking at the stars is deceiving themselves or others. Gauquelin, even after twenty years, maintains that astrological factors related to zodiac signs or planetary aspects are meaningless.

Geoffrey Dean, whom Tarvainen considers an expert on statistical astrological research, presented at a Skepsis seminar in 1989. Dean's summary for Skepsis stated that correlations between astrological factors and human behavior, based on reliable studies, do not exceed 0.05. This applies to studies of individual astrological factors as well as those considering the entire birth chart. Dean concludes that these correlations are too small to be practically useful and may even be illusory, caused by uncontrolled non-astrological variables. His conclusion is that empirical research has not yet unequivocally demonstrated even a weak astrological effect.

Mustelin interprets Tarvainen's attempt to frame astrology as experience-based by citing researchers who have debunked astrological claims as a psychological phenomenon, where individuals interpret negative evidence in favor of their existing beliefs. He suggests that Tarvainen's understanding of "experience-based" refers more to subjective conviction than empirical evidence. Mustelin criticizes this naive view of human cognition, which he notes is common among proponents of pseudoscience, and promises to revisit the topic later.

Other Content

• "Grafologia" and "Steiner-koululaki" are listed as topics on the cover, indicating they are likely discussed within the issue, though detailed OCR for these specific articles is not provided in the excerpt.
• "Numero 810" and "talvi 1991" indicate the issue number and season/year.
• "Kansi: Jussi Parikka" credits Jussi Parikka for the cover art.
• A disclaimer at the end of the table of contents states that all published writings represent the authors' personal opinions and not the official stance of the editorial team, Skepsis, or CSICOP.
• An "English summary" is provided on page 47, suggesting a brief overview of the issue's content in English.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, particularly astrology and graphology, and a critical examination of societal and scientific developments in Finland. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting critical thinking, scientific literacy, and evidence-based reasoning. The magazine actively debunks popular beliefs and practices that lack scientific support, while also raising concerns about the integrity and direction of scientific research and education within Finland. The critique of personality tests and their potential misuse highlights a concern for individual rights and the ethical application of psychological tools.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 10
Date: Winter 1991
Publisher: Skeptikko
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko magazine critically examines various topics, primarily focusing on the demarcation between science and pseudoscience, with a particular emphasis on astrology and the debate surrounding Steiner schools in Finland. The magazine also includes a review of research on graphology.

Astrology: Pseudoscience or Science?

The lead article, "Tieteen suurin saavutus on ehkä ollut oivallus..." (Perhaps science's greatest achievement has been the realization...), argues that the universe operates on causal principles, allowing for explanation and prediction. It contrasts this with astrology, suggesting that while horoscopes might hypothetically influence a newborn's nervous system, the practice of astrology, especially when applied to nations and communities (like the "Big Apple" example of New York), deviates from scientific reasoning. The article posits that astrological interpretations are rooted in the medieval concept of magical correspondence, equating it to superstition. It criticizes the Finnish Astrological Society for its perceived secrecy and for attempting to influence cultural institutions to suppress criticism of astrology.

The article "Skeptikkojen moraali - ja astrologien" (The Morality of Skeptics - and Astrologers) addresses a letter from Kyösti Tarvainen, who defends astrology's scientific and empirical basis and accuses Skepsis of acting as a "thought police." The author acknowledges the importance of free speech but argues that it comes with a moral responsibility to provide accurate information, questioning why publishers would promote pseudoscientific beliefs under the guise of science. The issue of taxpayer money being used for such purposes is also raised, particularly in relation to astrology courses offered at adult education centers.

The Steiner School Debate

Another significant section of the magazine, "Eduskunta hyväksyi Steiner-koululain" (Parliament Approved the Steiner School Law), details the parliamentary debate and eventual approval of a law allowing state funding for private Steiner schools. The article highlights the arguments presented by various members of parliament. Esko Almgren of the Christian League argued against the law, citing concerns about Steiner pedagogy being occult and contrasting it with Christian schools. He also quoted Nils Mustelin, the chairman of Skepsis, from a previous Skeptikko article, indicating that Skepsis's criticism was being noted in parliamentary discussions. The article notes that the left-wing parties, particularly Heli Astala of the Left Alliance, supported Steiner schools, praising their emphasis on creativity, community, and social skills, while opposing broader support for other alternative schools.

Heikki Rinne is quoted as stating that the state has no obligation to support superstition, even if it's a harmless hobby like believing in gnomes. The article suggests that the parliamentary decision to fund Steiner schools was a compromise, driven by the Social Democrats' resistance to supporting a wider range of alternative schools. The debate also touched upon the perceived lack of transparency in the Steiner school movement and its connection to anthroposophy.

Graphology: Assessing Personality Through Handwriting?

The article "Voiko persoonallisuutta arvioida käsialan perusteella?" (Can Personality Be Assessed Based on Handwriting?) by Timo Kaitaro provides a review of research on graphology. It notes that while numerous studies exist, many older ones focused on easily quantifiable handwriting features. The author highlights a review by Fluckiger, Trippin, and Weinberg (1961), which found that qualitative features, crucial for graphological theory, were less studied. The article then focuses on studies assessing the "validity" of graphology, referencing scientific literature and a handbook edited by Baruch Nevon. It suggests that while some studies offer critical or positive perspectives, the scientific validation of graphology remains a complex issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko strongly advocates for critical thinking, scientific rationality, and the importance of distinguishing between science and pseudoscience. The magazine champions freedom of speech but insists on a moral responsibility to provide accurate information and to scrutinize claims that masquerade as scientific fact. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical towards astrology and other pseudoscientific beliefs, while supporting open debate and research-based evaluation of educational alternatives. The magazine appears to be a platform for disseminating critical perspectives on paranormal claims and promoting a rational worldview within Finnish society.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated Winter 1991, features an in-depth examination of graphology, a practice that claims to assess personality through handwriting analysis. The magazine critically evaluates the scientific basis and empirical evidence supporting graphology, contrasting it with established psychological methodologies.

Analytical vs. Holistic Approaches to Graphology

The article begins by defining validity and reliability in research, noting that graphological studies typically aim to find statistical correlations between handwriting features and personality traits, job success, or other criteria. These studies are broadly categorized into two groups: analytical and holistic.

Analytical approaches focus on correlating individual handwriting features with specific personality traits. This approach is considered more empirical, particularly from a positivist scientific perspective. However, it is criticized for its reliance on trait theory, which assumes personality is composed of stable, distinct traits. This assumption is increasingly questioned by cognitive psychology. Furthermore, even if such traits exist, they may not necessarily correlate with handwriting features.

Holistic approaches, in contrast, involve a graphologist's overall assessment of the handwriting. The article notes that while analytical studies are more common, holistic methods are also employed. A separate category is made for studies with a clear theoretical basis for explaining the connection between handwriting and personality.

Analytical Correlation Studies

These studies attempt to correlate specific handwriting features with personality traits they are assumed to be linked to. This approach is often based on trait theory, which is itself considered problematic. Such studies are significant when evaluating the validity of graphological theories that presuppose connections between personality traits and handwriting features.

The Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI) has been a dominant tool in analytical correlation studies. The EPI is a psychometric questionnaire that measures dimensions such as extraversion-introversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism. Studies examining the link between graphological signs of extraversion and Eysenck's measured extraversion have found no statistically significant correlations (Rosenthal & Lines 1978; Lester, McLaughlin & Nosal 1977). Furnham and Gunter (1987) assessed 13 handwriting features against Eysenck's personality inventory scales and found that less than 6% of the correlations were significant. This result is not significantly different from what would be expected by chance.

Holistic Assessment Studies

Instead of analytical correlations, some studies have investigated the validity of graphology in a more comprehensive manner. In these studies, graphologists are asked to form a description of a person's personality based on their handwriting. This description is then presented to the subject along with a false description (e.g., from another person). The subject then rates the accuracy of these descriptions. If graphological assessments were valid, it would be predicted that people would recognize their own personality descriptions and rate them as more accurate.

Vestevig, Santee, and Moss (1976) used such a design, asking graphologists to assess individuals using traits from the Edward's Personality Inventory. They found that subjects could only distinguish correct descriptions from false ones at a statistically significant level for two out of fifteen traits. For the overall personality description, there was no significant difference in accuracy between the graphologists' assessments and the false descriptions. No statistically significant correlations were found between the graphologists' assessments and the Edwards Personality Inventory.

Studies attempting to assess graphologists' ability to predict job success have yielded mixed results, with some being somewhat more encouraging. A review of such studies can be found in Rafaeli and Drory (1988). While some individual studies have found connections between predictions and outcomes, suggesting some basis for graphology, the overall results are not convincing or consistent. Some studies have produced results strong enough to potentially justify the use of graphology in hiring, but these often have methodological shortcomings that make drawing conclusions difficult.

Baruch Nevo (1988), analyzing data from Ben-Shakhar et al. (1986), noted that despite negative conclusions regarding graphology, there were marginal indications of its validity. The assessments of five graphologists were slightly better than chance when predicting occupation from handwriting, with a probability of less than 5% for this result to occur by chance. This suggests a weak connection, which was only revealed by combining the assessments of five graphologists. The combined results reached a statistically significant level (p<0.05), with 26 correct and 14 incorrect assessments. The researchers concluded that such a weak assessment method is not practically useful, as better alternatives exist and using five graphologists routinely is not feasible. However, they acknowledged that graphology might contain some truth that psychologists should consider.

Content of Text Samples

There is conflicting information on whether the content of the text sample influences graphologists' assessments or their accuracy. Rafaeli and Klimoski (1983) found no systematic differences when comparing graphological assessments based on autobiographical or neutral texts, suggesting that graphological analysis does not rely on factors other than handwriting features. Conversely, Ben-Shakhar et al. (1986) study indicated otherwise. In the first part of this study, using autobiographical texts, graphologists achieved positive, albeit low, correlations with criteria. However, these correlations could be explained by the information contained in the text itself, achieving the same result without graphology. A meta-analysis by Neter and Ben-Shakhar (1986) of 17 studies supported this, showing that when texts containing information about the individuals were used, graphologists achieved generally low correlations with criteria. When neutral text samples were used, the correlations approached zero. These results suggest that any limited accuracy in graphological assessments could be explained by the content of the text. However, Drory's (1986) study found significantly higher correlations than those reported by Ben-Shakhar et al. (1986) or in the Neter and Ben-Shakhar (1986) meta-analysis.

Theory-Based Research

Few studies examining the link between handwriting and personality have tested a clearly formulated theory that would explain these connections in a psychologically plausible way. Similarly, few studies have considered national differences in school handwriting models. Linton, Epstein, and Hartford's studies (1961 and 1962) investigated the connection between the use of primary and secondary beginning strokes and personality. Primary strokes are those not taught in school (e.g., 'a', 'c', 'd', 'o', 'p', 'q' in US schools), while secondary strokes are taught (e.g., 'u', 'v', 'w', 'y'). Primary strokes are additions to the learned writing model, and secondary strokes tend to disappear with age and writing experience. Linton and colleagues hypothesized which personality types would be more likely to stick to learned letter models (retaining secondary strokes) and which would be more likely to add primary strokes. Their predictions were not entirely realized, but the handwriting features in question did appear to have a theoretically meaningful and interpretable connection to personality. Their findings await confirmation from further research.

Skill, Science, or Pseudoscience?

In summary, there is no convincing scientific evidence for the effectiveness of graphology. While some positive results have been obtained in its use for hiring, research in this area has had methodological shortcomings. Some studies, however, suggest that handwriting might contain some information related to personality.

It is possible that some individuals possess a skill for making personality inferences based on handwriting. However, even if evidence for this existed, it would not make graphology a science. Science requires a systematic theory explaining how handwriting connects to personality, supported by empirical research. Such systematic, theoretically grounded, and empirically based evidence is currently scarce in scientific publications, making claims of graphology's scientific nature premature.

Whether graphology is pure pseudoscience or a protoscientific field that might develop into a science is debatable. Some unfounded assumptions in graphological theories might be considered pseudoscience. However, it is theoretically possible that theories about the connection between handwriting and personality could eventually become scientifically acceptable. Pseudoscientific fields have sometimes evolved into sciences (e.g., phrenology into neuropsychology, alchemy into chemistry), but this development has required abandoning unfounded assumptions and accepting facts. The basic assumption of graphology—that personality and handwriting are connected—is plausible. However, the assumption that personality can be inferred solely from handwriting to a significant degree is questionable, as there is a lack of systematic and research-backed knowledge to make such inferences reliably. It is generally questionable whether a comprehensive and reliable description of personality can be made using only one method, whether it be a psychological test or handwriting analysis. Therefore, in clinical psychology, multiple methods are used for personality assessment, and a clinician adhering to professional standards would not rely solely on a single test result, such as graphology, without interviews or direct interaction with the individual, even if those methods have better evidence of validity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical evaluation of graphology's scientific validity. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, emphasizing the lack of robust empirical evidence and methodological flaws in studies that claim to support graphology. The magazine highlights the importance of scientific rigor, theoretical grounding, and replicable findings in establishing a field as scientific. It contrasts graphology with established psychological methods, suggesting that while handwriting might contain some information, it is not a reliable or sufficient tool for personality assessment or prediction of job performance. The issue advocates for evidence-based approaches and warns against accepting claims of scientific validity without sufficient proof, positioning graphology as a pseudoscience or at best a field with unproven potential.

This issue of Skeptikko, number 10 from winter 1991, focuses on critical examinations of alternative medicine and pseudoscience, specifically 'LN-medicines' (luontaistuotteet/natural products) and graphology. The magazine aims to apply skeptical inquiry and scientific scrutiny to these fields.

LN-Medicines: Unproven Efficacy and Market Appeal

The article "LN-lääkkeet" (LN-medicines) discusses the nature and prevalence of alternative therapies in Finland. It highlights that LN-medicines are not subject to the same stringent efficacy and safety requirements as conventional pharmaceuticals. This allows them to be priced freely based on supply and demand, and even to be registered as 'medicinal products' despite potentially being ineffective. Consequently, health insurance does not typically cover LN-medicine treatments, and they are not used by official healthcare systems.

The article notes that LN-medicines bypass the safety, purity, and quality standards applied to regular drugs, even though natural substances can have side effects. The use of LN-medicines has increased, with a significant percentage of women and men trying them annually. Those who use conventional medicines are also more likely to use LN-medicines. A primary perceived benefit among Finns is disease prevention, with a particular appeal for anti-aging and combating degeneration, targeting the growing market of middle-aged and elderly consumers.

Another significant use is for enhancing the well-being of healthy individuals, addressing common issues like fatigue and lack of motivation where conventional medicine does not compete. The article points out a human tendency to 'pathologize' minor ailments, seeking material causes like nutrient deficiencies or harmful substances. This tendency is exploited in the marketing of LN-medicines, vitamins, and trace element treatments. The less severe and threatening an ailment, the more likely people are to try LN-medicines, which are perceived as harmless, to avoid side effects.

While disease treatment is a prominent claim for LN-medicines, especially for age-related illnesses that cannot be cured by conventional means, patients are willing to try expensive 'alternative therapies.' Testimonials of miraculous recoveries are popular and used for promotion, often appearing in free distribution magazines and even in advertising for products with banned claims (e.g., cancer treatment).

In Finland, herbal and natural remedies (fytoterapia) are the most common LN-medicines, primarily used for self-medication. Homeopathic and anthroposophic products are less common but saw increased marketing in the late 1980s. Anthroposophic products, like mistletoe extracts, are sold without emphasizing their underlying ideology, as anthroposophical concepts (e.g., the influence of star positions on medicine's effectiveness) are unfamiliar to Finns.

Homeopathy operates on the principle of 'similia similibus curantur' (like cures like), treating ailments with substances that cause similar symptoms in healthy individuals. A key feature is the extensive, rhythmic dilution and succussion process known as potentization, which supposedly increases the medicine's effect as the active ingredient decreases. Homeopathic treatment is highly individualized, combining various preparations based on the patient's preferences and reactions.

Diagnostic medical tests are not always performed. Instead, unique tests (e.g., detecting cancer precursors in blood via microscopy, or blood crystallization tests) are used to identify pre-disease states. For instance, a 'precancerous condition' might be treated with homeopathic cancer remedies. Homeopathy aims to activate the body's natural healing process, asserting that no disease is incurable, with failure attributed to the patient. Homeopathic treatments are said to work slowly; for example, bacterial infections might take 4-6 weeks to resolve, a timeframe similar to natural recovery without treatment. A significant issue is that patients may experience complications from ineffective treatment (e.g., heart or kidney inflammation, rheumatic joint inflammation). However, if patients and practitioners are satisfied with slow recovery, the perception of homeopathy's effectiveness persists, even though rare complications can be detrimental.

Despite its 180-year history, homeopathy still lacks credible evidence of efficacy. Numerous studies claimed to support homeopathy fail critical examination, often due to the significant influence of patient and practitioner expectations on result interpretation and small sample sizes. Many studies have yielded negative results for homeopathy, but these rarely gain public attention.

Graphology: A Pseudoscience Under Scrutiny

The section "Skeptikot ja uskonto" (Skeptics and Religion) transitions into a letter from Mirjami Määttänen, a self-described skeptical 'graphologist' from Lahti, discussing graphology. She responds to a previous inquiry about how skeptics should approach religions and argues that Skepsis (the Finnish Skeptic Society) should also critically examine belief systems that claim scientific backing, including religions and pseudosciences.

Määttänen argues that when religions or pseudosciences use scientific observations or theories to support their claims, Skepsis should evaluate these claims with the same rigor as paranormal phenomena. She aligns critical skepticism with critical atheism, stating that belief in the supernatural or transcendent is unfounded without evidence, and the burden of proof lies with the claimant.

She criticizes the separation of 'religious matters' and 'knowledge matters' as poorly justified. She also critiques Herbert Spencer's agnosticism, which posits that humans cannot know transcendent matters, as a weak starting point. True skepticism, she contends, should apply the same test of scientific evidence to religious claims as to paranormal ones. Ontologically insignificant religious claims are harmless, but those that attempt to establish factual existence require empirical validation.

Määttänen then delves into graphology, the analysis of handwriting. She notes that while graphology is a hobby for many, its scientific basis is questionable. She mentions that graphology courses are offered in Finland, often by folk high schools and adult education centers, with some even being integrated into summer university programs, targeting professionals like psychologists and doctors. However, the quality and standardization of graphology training are not regulated.

She expresses concern about the use of graphology in employment settings, where it is claimed to reveal deep-seated personality traits, psychological disorders, criminal tendencies, and even alcoholism. The idea that an employer could gain access to such information through handwriting analysis is presented as frightening. While graphology as a hobby might be harmless, its application in professional contexts, particularly for hiring, warrants extreme caution and skepticism.

Määttänen highlights that while graphologists themselves often desire scientific validation and welcome research, many studies presented in their favor do not hold up to scrutiny. She points out that the lack of scientific proof for graphology would primarily affect professional graphologists and companies that use their services, potentially saving them money.

She suggests that proving graphology's validity as a psychological test would require extensive research. She recounts a personal experiment where her graphological analyses were compared to those of a professional psychologist for a recruitment firm. In this trial, her analyses reportedly matched the psychologist's findings and were recognized by the test subjects, though she remains skeptical about the results, particularly given the power imbalance faced by job applicants who must submit to such tests.

She concludes by calling for Skepsis to organize or publish research on graphology, potentially translating existing studies, and to investigate further through networks like the one mentioned by Markku Javananinen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of claims that lack scientific evidence. The magazine champions skepticism and the application of rigorous scientific methodology to evaluate phenomena, whether they be alternative therapies, religious beliefs, or pseudoscientific practices like graphology. The editorial stance is clearly pro-science and anti-pseudoscience, advocating for evidence-based reasoning and caution against unsubstantiated claims, particularly when they have potential real-world consequences, such as in healthcare or employment.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 10
Date: Winter 1991
Publisher: Skepsis ry.
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

Content Summary

Kolmas maailmansota? (Third World War?)

The lead article discusses a prediction made by American journalist Webb Miller in January 1940 to a Finnish journalist. Miller predicted that the third world war would be about oil and fought in the Middle East, resulting in the destruction of the peoples of the Middle East, with Europe also being engulfed. However, Finland would be spared. The article contrasts this prediction with the then-ongoing Gulf War, questioning whether it truly constituted a world war or the destruction of Middle Eastern peoples, noting that previous world wars resulted in tens of millions of deaths. It reiterates that oil would benefit the victor and Finland would remain uninvolved, questioning the necessity of predictions for such obvious outcomes.

Skepsiksen tiedotuksia (Skepsis Announcements)

Kutsu Skepsiksen vuosikokoukseen (Invitation to Skepsis' Annual Meeting): The annual meeting was scheduled for Thursday, March 21, 1991, at 6:00 PM at the University of Helsinki. Agenda items included the activity report, plan, accounts, membership fee, and election of a new board. An informal gathering was planned afterward. Members were encouraged to register for the evening event by March 15th.

Studia Skeptica -luentosarja (Studia Skeptica Lecture Series): Skepsis ry. organized a lecture series in April-May titled 'Doubt, belief, and reality.' The series aimed to explore various historical and cultural approaches to understanding reality and provide context for contemporary phenomena. Lectures were held on Mondays and Thursdays at Porthania, starting at 6:00 PM.

Ohjelma (Program): The lecture series program included:

• April 22: Ilkka Tuomi: From Chaos to Quantum Mysticism
• April 25: Simo Knuuttila: Ancient Skepticism
• April 29: Raimo Lehti: From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance of Science
• May 2: Anto Leikola: The Origin of the Biological Concept of Man
• May 6: Tuomas Nevanlinna: Doubt of the Modern Mind
• May 9: Harri Heino: New Age
• May 13: Risto Vuorinen: Human Irrationality

The article notes that in contemporary Western culture, various historical and reality-based concepts compete, often with different methodologies. The lecture series aimed to identify the origins of current cultural phenomena for better understanding and evaluation.

The Skeptical Inquirer Advertisement

An advertisement encourages readers to subscribe to 'The Skeptical Inquirer,' a publication by CSICOP, for more information on skeptical activities. It mentions that the journal publishes four issues annually, each over a hundred pages, and provides a subscription address in Buffalo, NY, USA.

Jäsenanomus (Membership Application)

A membership application form is provided for those wishing to join Skepsis ry. It requests personal details, professional information, contact information, and a description of relevant experience or interests. Applicants must accept the association's statutes and principles.

English Summary

Disgusting, by Hannu Karttunen: This piece critiques the Finnish government's goal of having the most educated populace in Europe by 2010, arguing that politicians are leading in the opposite direction. The author recounts receiving a scientological personality test for a job application, noting the high cost ($700) charged by the consulting company for a brief assessment.

Astrology, superstition, and morale, by Nils Mustelin: The president of the Finnish Astrological Society is reported to have attacked Skepsis by sending complaints to the publisher of Skepsis' first book and the Board of Scientific Societies. He accused Skepsis of being a 'thought police' but refused to discuss the matter publicly.

Law for Steiner schools passed, by Matti Virtanen: The Finnish parliament passed a law legitimizing Steiner schools for public funding, despite opposition primarily from the Christian party. A representative from the Christian party even read excerpts from Skeptikko during a parliamentary session, though it had no effect.

Review of graphological literature, by Timo Kaitaro: This review suggests that most experiments do not support graphologists' claims. While some minor correlations were found, the methodology and use of appropriate controls were questionable. In some cases, the content of the text itself aided the graphologist. The review concludes that there is no scientifically sound theory for graphological analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical viewpoint, critically examining claims related to the paranormal, pseudoscientific theories, and societal trends. The editorial stance is to encourage objective, scientific investigation and rational analysis of phenomena, as evidenced by the articles on the Gulf War's context, the critique of personality tests, the defense against astrological attacks, the legal status of alternative education, and the scientific evaluation of graphology. The organization Skepsis ry. itself is presented as a platform for promoting these principles through meetings, lectures, and publications.