14-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 14
Date: Spring 1992
Publisher: Skeptikko
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
ISSN: 0786-2571

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, number 14, published in Spring 1992, delves into various topics related to skepticism, critical thinking, and the examination of extraordinary claims. The cover prominently features the headline "Kuhnehoitaja tuomiolla" (Healer on trial), hinting at a significant legal case discussed within.

Editorial and Organizational Information

The magazine lists its board members, including Nils Mustelin as Chairman, Tytti Sutela as Editor-in-chief and Vice-chairman, Lauri Gröhn as Secretary, Helena Venho as Treasurer, and Veli Toukomies. The scientific advisory board is extensive, featuring numerous professors and docents such as S. Albert Kivinen (Chairman), Nils Edelman, Kari Enqvist, Pertti Hemánus, Raimo Keskinen, Kirsti Lagerspetz, Raimo Lehti, Anto Leikola, Matti A. Miettinen, Ilkka Niiniluoto, Heikki Oja, Heikki Räisänen, Veijo Saano, Anssi Saura, Tytti Sutela, Yrjö Vasari, Johan von Wright, and Risto Vuorinen.

Contact information for membership, subscriptions, and general inquiries is provided, directing readers to the secretary, Lauri Gröhn. The editorial team consists of Editor-in-chief Tytti Sutela, and other members Matti Virtanen, Nils Mustelin, and Pentti Tuovinen. Tytti Sutela can be reached by phone at 90-7539601 or by mail at Sakarinkatu 2 D, 00500 Helsinki.

Table of Contents

The table of contents outlines the articles and features in this issue:

• 4: "Tosi vahvoja uskomuksia" (Very Strong Beliefs) by Matti Virtanen
• 6: "Se tehoaa, se tehoaa" (It Works, It Works) by Matti Virtanen
• 17: "Filosofinen silmänkääntäjä" (Philosophical Sleight of Hand) by Michael Hutchinson, translated by Ilkka Tuomi
• 23: "Fantasiaa, fiktiota, faktaa" (Fantasy, Fiction, Fact) by Veli Toukomies
• 26: John Allen Paulos: "Numerotaidottomuus" (Innumerate) by Pekka J. Alestalo
• 30: Skeptikko's Activity Report
• 33: Activity Plan
• 35: Results of the Membership Survey
• 37: "Tallinnaan!" (To Tallinn!)
• 37: "Euroepäilyä Italiassa" (Euro-skepticism in Italy)
• 38: English summary

A disclaimer states that all published writings represent the authors' personal opinions and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of the editorial team, Skeptikko, or CSICOP.

Article Summaries

"Tosi vahvoja uskomuksia" (Very Strong Beliefs) by Matti Virtanen (Pages 4-5)

This article explores beliefs that are difficult to refute, distinguishing between "päähänpinttymä" (fixation/stubborn belief) and "pakkomielle" (obsession). Virtanen argues that while fixations can sometimes be overcome through exposure and understanding, obsessions are more pathological. He highlights superstition as a widespread phenomenon, present even in organized religions and among atheists who may still hold superstitious beliefs. The article notes that while some superstitions (like black cats crossing paths) can be easily dismissed, others, particularly those held by practitioners of alternative medicine, can be dangerous. Virtanen references a court case where a "healer" was convicted of causing death, citing the healer's belief that all medicines are poison, including insulin for diabetics. The article questions whether such beliefs are obsessions, fixations, or genuine superstitions and invites readers to submit their thoughts.

"Se tehoaa, se tehoaa" (It Works, It Works) by Matti Virtanen (Pages 6-10)

This extensive article details the tragic case of Lauri Niemelä, a young boy with diabetes whose parents, influenced by alternative healer Ritva Tuulikki Rissanen, discontinued his prescribed insulin therapy in favor of Kuhne baths. The Rovaniemi district court found Rissanen guilty of causing death and sentenced her to six months of conditional imprisonment. The article meticulously reconstructs the events based on court records, detailing the parents' interactions with Rissanen and their growing distrust of conventional medicine. Rissanen repeatedly advised against insulin, claiming it was harmful and that her Kuhne treatments would cure the boy. Despite Lauri's deteriorating condition and warnings from doctors, the parents followed Rissanen's advice. Lauri died on April 25, 1991, on his fifth birthday, from diabetic ketoacidosis. The article includes testimonies from Lauri's mother, Helmi Niemelä, and father, Sakari Niemelä, who describe Rissanen's persuasive and confident demeanor, which led them to trust her over medical professionals. Sakari Niemelä recounts how Rissanen claimed to diagnose ailments by touch and assured them of Lauri's recovery within four weeks. The parents' testimony reveals their struggle between their trust in Rissanen and the medical advice they received, ultimately succumbing to Rissanen's assurances.

"Filosofinen silmänkääntäjä" (Philosophical Sleight of Hand) by Michael Hutchinson (Page 17)

This article, translated by Ilkka Tuomi, likely discusses philosophical arguments or logical fallacies, possibly related to skepticism or the nature of belief, given the magazine's theme.

"Fantasiaa, fiktiota, faktaa" (Fantasy, Fiction, Fact) by Veli Toukomies (Page 23)

This piece by Veli Toukomies likely explores the boundaries between imagination, storytelling, and reality, possibly examining how these elements intersect with pseudoscientific claims or unusual phenomena.

John Allen Paulos: "Numerotaidottomuus" (Innumerate) by Pekka J. Alestalo (Page 26)

This section, authored by Pekka J. Alestalo, summarizes or discusses John Allen Paulos's work on innumeracy, which deals with the public's lack of understanding of mathematics and statistics, and its implications for critical thinking and susceptibility to misinformation.

Organizational Activities

• Skeptikko's Activity Report (Page 30): This section likely details the organization's activities, achievements, and events from the past year.
• Activity Plan (Page 33): This outlines Skeptikko's planned activities and goals for the upcoming period.
• Results of the Membership Survey (Page 35): This presents the findings from a survey conducted among Skeptikko's members, likely covering their interests, opinions, and feedback.

Other Articles

• "Tallinnaan!" (To Tallinn!) (Page 37): A short piece about a trip to Tallinn, Estonia.
• "Euroepäilyä Italiassa" (Euro-skepticism in Italy) (Page 37): This article likely discusses skeptical viewpoints or attitudes towards European integration or specific European phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko strongly emphasizes the importance of evidence-based reasoning, critical evaluation of claims, and the dangers of unsubstantiated beliefs, particularly in the realm of alternative medicine. The detailed account of the Rissanen case serves as a stark warning against pseudoscientific practices that can have fatal consequences. The inclusion of articles on innumeracy and philosophical arguments further reinforces the magazine's commitment to promoting rational thought and scientific literacy. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards extraordinary claims and a promotion of scientific methodology and critical inquiry as the primary tools for understanding the world.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, number 14 from Spring 1992, focuses on two main topics: the controversial case of Laurin Niemelä and an interview with magician Paul Daniels.

The Laurin Niemelä Case

The majority of the magazine details the tragic case of Laurin Niemelä, a child who died after being treated with an alternative therapy known as 'Kuhne-hoito' by a practitioner named Rissanen. The case appears to have gone through a court process, with summaries of testimonies and the final verdict.

Background and Treatment

Laurin was initially treated with insulin and baths. Sakari Niemelä, Laurin's father, stated that Rissanen consistently suggested stopping insulin, claiming it would speed up Laurin's recovery by not introducing more substances into the body. Rissanen argued that insulin was not acutely necessary but that a return to insulin treatment would be needed later. On March 9th, the Niemeläs decided to stop insulin. A week later, on March 18th, they discussed Laurin's treatment with chief physician Seppo Pöntynen, who reiterated that insulin would be necessary eventually.

Sakari Niemelä recounted an incident on April 22nd where Rissanen criticized the family for giving Laurin lukewarm baths. Rissanen then allegedly administered a scalding steam bath to Laurin, who was unconscious, resulting in burns to his buttocks. Rissanen's explanation for Laurin's worsening condition was that it was part of the healing process, a return to the 'roots' of the illness, and insisted that insulin should not be given.

However, on April 23rd, Rissanen suggested giving Laurin insulin, claiming it was for the parents' benefit, as they seemed to need it, even though the child did not. Sakari Niemelä stated he refused, but Rissanen insisted the treatment would be effective.

Rissanen's Defense and Kuhne-hoito

Rissanen, when questioned, stated he first met the Niemeläs in February 1991 in Rovaniemi. He introduced them to his 'Kuhne-hoito' method, which involved 'New Medicine' and 'Facial Expression Analysis,' emphasizing that it was an alternative therapy and that patients had to give up their conventional medication. He claimed the decision to stop medication was voluntary.

About a month after Laurin started Kuhne-hoito, Rissanen learned the Niemeläs were still giving Laurin insulin. He explained to Helmi Niemelä that the baths would counteract the medication, leading to dangerously low blood sugar, which he predicted would result in a coma. Following this, the Niemeläs stopped giving insulin. Two days later, on March 11th, they met Rissanen, who described Laurin as being in good spirits and energetic.

Rissanen admitted to giving treatment advice over the phone, checking on the patient's condition and metabolism. He also stated that on April 23rd, he found Laurin's metabolism was not activating and the pores were not opening, suggesting it was too late for baths to help. He then recommended insulin, stating that the body's internal fever was burning it up.

Rissanen defended his approach, stating that while Kuhne-hoito could treat many conditions, it couldn't cure all diseases. He attributed the failure in Laurin's case partly to insufficient steam. He also claimed he did not insist on Laurin being taken to the hospital on April 24th, but gave the parents the choice, stating it was his opinion that it wasn't necessary.

Court Proceedings and Verdict

Prosecutor Markku Kynsilehto sought a penalty for Rissanen, highlighting that despite Rissanen's claims about Kuhne-hoito's effectiveness, he eventually recommended insulin when he believed nothing else would help. Rissanen maintained the voluntary nature of his treatment and denied doubting its efficacy, stating he did not believe in conventional medicine. He suggested a minor error in the treatment might have occurred.

Pauli Lehtonen, Rissanen's business partner, defended Kuhne-hoito, stating it involved 'eliminating baths' (sitting baths, stool baths, and steam) and 'healing baths.' He stressed that medication and baths should never be used together, as this combination is catastrophic. He claimed Kuhne-hoito had cured diabetes in Finland and elsewhere, and that it was distinct from conventional medicine, aiming to remove foreign substances from the body rather than introducing synthetic toxins.

The court found Rissanen guilty and sentenced him to imprisonment. The court cited the duration of Rissanen's actions as an aggravating factor and stated that Laurin could have been saved if Rissanen had acted to promote insulin use or hospital care between March 9th and April 24th, 1991. The court concluded that Rissanen could have stopped the chain of events leading to Laurin's death at any point during that period.

Expert Testimony

Chief Physician Seppo Pöntynen testified that he had treated over 200-300 diabetes patients and emphasized the importance of insulin. He noted that the Niemeläs had an 'ideological view' that alternative treatment was better and had strong doubts about insulin's side effects. When asked if he knew of any diabetes patient who had recovered, Pöntynen replied, "No."

Eila Kuha, Laurin's grandmother, testified that she saw Laurin unconscious on his birthday (his death day). She described his eyes rolling and his lack of responsiveness. Rissanen told her Laurin was sleeping a healing sleep and would recover.

Skeptical Perspectives

Lehtonen argued that the Niemeläs' negative stance towards conventional medicine was a defense mechanism. He also stated that Kuhne-hoito is not related to conventional medicine, but rather focuses on the body. He claimed that conventional medicine injects synthetic poisons, while Kuhne-hoito removes foreign substances causing illness.

The Role of Vaccines and Medicine

Lehtonen also discussed the cause of diabetes, suggesting it stems from vaccinations and medication. He noted that diabetes is increasing significantly in Finland due to extensive vaccination programs and medication use, which he claimed makes people sick and leads to the birth of sick children.

Interview with Paul Daniels

The second major section of the magazine features an interview with magician Paul Daniels, conducted by Michael Hutchinson and translated by Ilkka Tuomi.

Skepticism and Illusion

Daniels expresses strong skepticism towards paranormal phenomena, calling them "hoaxes" and "sleight of hand." He recounts an experience with a psychic surgeon from the Philippines, where he suspected the assistant was performing the trick. He dismisses spiritualists who claim otherwise.

Daniels, a renowned magician with numerous television series, is described as outspoken on religion and morality. He initially believed in telekinesis as a child but later, after extensive reading, developed a more logical and observational approach.

Religion and Society

Daniels critiques religion, viewing it as a set of rules that govern society, often manipulated by a few. He questions why he wasn't taught about historical religious figures like Tutankhamon in school. He suggests that while a sense of mystical fear might be necessary for children in primitive societies, modern society should move beyond it. He advocates for ending religious education in schools, believing that people should learn about religion from their families on weekends.

Uri Geller and Paranormal Claims

Daniels expresses a surprisingly open attitude towards Uri Geller, calling him an "interesting" and "nice guy." He mentions Geller's appearance on 'The Best of Magic' show, where a trick involving a clock going backward allegedly failed and had to be rearranged behind a curtain. Daniels believes Geller is a great showman but doubts he possesses genuine paranormal abilities, such as bending metal with his mind.

The Need for Mysticism

Daniels attributes people's need for belief in the supernatural to poor education. He argues that people overlook the inherent wonder of their own existence and capabilities, preferring to be amazed by external phenomena like those described by David Attenborough. He believes that most people will remain 'unenlightened' and will always seek mysticism, which is why mass media will continue to promote it.

Critiquing Skeptical Media

Daniels criticizes how skeptical media often presents its content. He suggests that shows claiming to debunk paranormal phenomena should immediately state that they will expose hoaxes and manipulation. He believes that if this approach were taken, people would be less likely to be deceived. He uses his own experience of being called a 'villain' for stating the truth about a deceased medium as an example of how skepticism is often met with hostility.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for critical thinking and scientific skepticism. It highlights the dangers of unproven alternative therapies and the importance of evidence-based medicine, as exemplified by the Laurin Niemelä case and the testimony of medical professionals. The interview with Paul Daniels reinforces this stance by deconstructing paranormal claims and emphasizing the role of education and critical analysis in understanding the world. The magazine appears to be critical of religious dogma and the uncritical acceptance of supernatural phenomena, promoting a rational and evidence-based worldview.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 14
Date: Spring 1992

This issue of Skeptikko magazine delves into various aspects of skepticism, pseudoscience, and critical thinking, featuring articles that challenge paranormal claims and promote rational inquiry.

The Skeptic and the Media

The issue begins with a discussion about television programs that present alleged psychics and miracle workers as genuine, only revealing the tricks at the end. The article suggests that by then, the audience is already convinced, leading to a skewed perception. The speaker, identified as 'Daniel,' notes that the name 'Skeptikko' itself might deter some people and jokingly suggests changing it to 'Yliluonnollinen?' (The Supernatural?).

Support for Rand

Daniel expresses strong support for the work of James Rand, stating that Rand has done more to awaken human consciousness than perhaps anyone in America. He believes Rand's work should be taught in schools alongside Shakespeare, emphasizing its importance for quality of life.

Daniel's Language Method and Halloween Shows

Daniel has spent recent years developing a rapid language learning method based on ancient Greek mnemonic techniques. He has developed courses for French, German, Italian, and Spanish, and can speak Spanish fluently after a week of study. Portuguese is nearing completion, and Japanese is next. He finds Japanese particularly interesting due to its unique pronunciation and speaking style, though he notes it's difficult for Japanese speakers to explain to him.

Daniel also discusses his past work with magic shows, including a special Halloween show he enjoyed creating. He mentions that in 1990, the BBC agreed to produce a Halloween special only if it was made with his new magic series. He notes the irony of a BBC radio producer in 1989 believing that his powers were strongest on Halloween, highlighting a persistent belief in the supernatural's influence on specific dates.

Skepticism Towards Miracles and Psychic Abilities

Daniel addresses the notion that he has a negative attitude. As a professional magician since age eleven, he states his genuine desire to meet someone who can truly perform supernatural feats. He would be thrilled to feature such a person on his television show. He questions whether someone with such abilities would choose to spend their life bending spoons, implying that true psychic powers would be used for more significant purposes. He reiterates his willingness to pay to witness genuine psychic phenomena.

Fantasiaa, fiktiota, faktaa (Fantasy, Fiction, Fact)

This section reports on the visit of B. Premanand, the leader of Indian skeptics, to Helsinki in April 1992. Premanand, who exposes miracles, performed for an audience of approximately 400 at Helsinki University. He demonstrated various 'miracles' performed by 'god-men,' such as piercing the tongue with a metal spike, turning water into wine, and creating holy ash from nothing. His performance left a skeptical theologian pondering.

The article frames Premanand's critique within the context of religious worldviews, particularly the distinction between Christian and non-Christian religions. It notes that fundamentalist Christians often label non-Christian religions as 'pagan,' while more liberal interpretations use terms like 'other religions.' The general Christian view is that Christianity offers a superior understanding of God and life.

Miracles are also categorized. 'Lower-level' miracles, attributed to Satan by fundamentalist Christians, include spiritualism, faith healing, astrology, and other paranormal phenomena. 'Higher-level' miracles are associated with a purer, divine source.

Premanand's critique is extended to Christian miracles, including the transformation of water into wine and walking on water, as described in the Bible. The article proposes a three-part classification of miracles:

1. Factual Miracles: Paranormal phenomena that have genuinely occurred. Both non-Christian gurus and Christian fundamentalists affirm their existence, though their examples differ. For the latter, biblical miracles and 'genuine' divine miracles are factual.
2. Fictional Miracles: Paranormal phenomena that are believed to occur but lack proof. Liberal Christians may interpret biblical miracles symbolically, representing religious but not scientific truth, while fundamentalists reject this view.
3. Fantasy Miracles: Paranormal phenomena that exist solely in human thought and ideology, with no connection to reality. These belong to the realm of ideas and philosophies, contributing to cultural history. The article suggests that understanding Western thought requires understanding Christianity, and that secular worldviews can provide equally robust foundations for life.

The author concludes that Premanand's lecture was thought-provoking, challenging not only alleged non-Christian miracles but also claims of Christian miracles throughout history and in the present. The article ends by stating that for an agnostic or skeptic, only 'fantasy miracles' exist. It respects those who find these 'fantasy miracles' necessary for their life philosophy and those who can manage without them.

Kuka pelkää numeroita? (Who is Afraid of Numbers?)

This section reviews John Allen Paulos' book 'Numerotaidottomuus' (Illiteracy of Numbers), translated into Finnish by Klaus Vala. The book, originally published in English, critically examines pseudoscience and the role of numerate illiteracy in its prevalence.

Paulos' book is divided into five chapters, discussing examples and starting points, probability and coincidence, pseudoscience, the reasons for numerate illiteracy, and the use of statistics in various societal functions. The book highlights three key areas of numerate illiteracy: difficulty comprehending large numbers, misunderstanding probability and coincidence, and the misuse of statistics.

The review emphasizes that being numerate means being able to critically assess numerical information. While probability calculations are based on common sense, applying them can be challenging, and their results may seem counterintuitive. For instance, in a group of 23 people, there's a 0.5 probability of at least two sharing a birthday, a fact that surprises many who might guess a much larger group is needed.

The book also explores the concept of coincidence. If every Finn knows 1,500 people, there's a 0.45 probability that two randomly chosen Finns will have at least one mutual acquaintance. The review notes that this is an optimistic estimate, as most acquaintances are local.

Paulos links numerate illiteracy to pseudoscience, particularly numerology, which seeks to find significance in numbers and connect them to religious or mystical concepts (e.g., the number 666). The review mentions how Ronald Wilson Reagan's name can be interpreted to contain 666, and how the number 616 is also linked to the Antichrist. It also touches upon Martin Gardner's work, which shows how arbitrary interpretations can derive any number from any word.

The theory of biorhythms is also discussed, originating from Wilhelm Fliess, who believed that numbers 23 and 28 represented male and female life rhythms. This led him to predict his own death at age 51 (23 + 28 = 51), a conclusion that, while shared by Freud, is presented as flawed due to its applicability to everyone.

The reviewer finds Paulos' book engaging, with surprising examples that encourage readers to verify calculations. Paulos' strong opinions are noted as a stimulating aspect. The book is recommended for mathematics teachers looking for examples to illustrate concepts, and for students who can follow the detailed explanations. However, the reviewer doubts that those lacking basic numeracy skills will engage with the book.

Skepsis ry's Activity Report 1991

This section provides a summary of Skepsis ry's activities in 1991. The year was described as relatively quiet in terms of activities, but membership increased significantly. The association organized lectures as usual.

The annual meeting was held on March 21, 1991, at Helsinki University, with 18 members present. Nils Mustelin was elected chairman, and the board members elected were Ilkka Tuomi, Pekka Roponen, Markku Javanainen, and Lauri Gröhn.

The new board held its first meeting on April 2, 1991, electing Roponen as vice-chairman, Gröhn as secretary, and Javanainen as treasurer. The board convened a total of 8 times throughout the year.

In 1991, the association approved 80 new members, with two resignations. By the end of the year, Skepsis ry had 187 members and a mailing list of 247 names, including ten libraries or organizations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are skepticism towards paranormal claims and pseudoscientific beliefs, the importance of critical thinking and numeracy, and the exposure of fraudulent practices in the name of miracles or psychic abilities. The magazine's stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry and scientific evidence, challenging both popular beliefs and religious interpretations that rely on supernatural explanations. The issue promotes a worldview grounded in logic and empirical observation, while acknowledging the cultural and philosophical significance of beliefs, even those deemed 'fantasy'.

This issue of Skeptikko (Issue 14, Spring 1992) is a Finnish magazine focused on skepticism and the critical examination of paranormal claims. It details the activities, plans, and member feedback of the Finnish skeptic organization Skepsis ry.

Lectures

During the reporting year, Skepsis organized several public lectures under the series "Doubt, belief, and reality." These included talks by:

• Ilkka Tuomi on "From Chaos to Quantum Mysticism"
• Simo Knuuttila on "Ancient Skepticism"
• Raimo Lehti on "From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance of Science"
• Anto Leikola on "The Origin of the Biological Concept of Man"
• Tuomas Nevanlinna on "Doubt of the Modern Spirit"
• Harri Heino on "New Age"
• Risto Vuorinen on "Human Irrationality"
• James Randi gave two lectures on "The Search for Miracles."
• Veijo Saano spoke on "The Background of Alternative Medicine," with comments from Antti Pietiäinen and Pekka Sauri.

European Skeptics

Matti Virtanen, a member of Skepsis, attended a meeting of European skeptics in Amsterdam in October.

Publishing Activities

The magazine "Skeptikko" was published three times during the year: issues 10, 11, and a double issue 12-13. The print run for the last issue was 500 copies.

International Cooperation

Through CSICOP, the magazine "Skeptikko" was distributed to other skeptic organizations.

Skepsis's Challenge

Skepsis's board committed to awarding 10,000 Finnish marks to anyone who could demonstrate a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions. While a few inquiries were received, none led to even a preliminary test.

Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board convened on October 12, 1991. They expressed a desire for educational talks in schools.

Hoo-ha Award 2.12.1991

The third "Hoo-ha Award" was presented to the Finnish Scientology Association ry, the Helsinki Dianetics Center, and other organizations operating in Finland that are part of the international Scientology movement.

Federation of Finnish Scientific Societies

Skepsis ry was accepted as a member of the Federation of Finnish Scientific Societies.

Skepsis ry's Operational Plan 1992

Membership Activities: The majority of members are from the Helsinki metropolitan area. In addition to individual lectures, monthly meetings are held for informal discussions, potentially featuring skeptical or anti-skeptical video presentations. The focus is shifting from passive recording of "hoo-ha" phenomena to a more analytical approach.

Sub-chapters: The plan is to establish 2-4 sub-chapters in different parts of Finland. Board members will take turns presenting at the inaugural meetings. Active initiative from members is encouraged.

Hoo-ha Award: The "Hoo-ha Award" has not received much publicity. Efforts will be made to develop the award's criteria and distribution method.

Scientific Advisory Board: To utilize the expertise of the advisory board, members will be asked for brief assessments on how their subjects prepare students to distinguish pseudoscience. One meeting will be organized for the board members, and another for members to ask questions of the board.

Skeptikko Magazine

Four issues of 40 pages each are planned, with increased illustrations and more member contributions. At least one thematic issue is planned. Translations from publications like "Skeptical Inquirer" are sought, along with book reviews and bibliographies.

Skepsis ry's Challenge

The new board will update the Skepsis challenge. Candidates responding to the challenge will be tested if the claimed ability is testable and does not require unreasonable arrangements, provided an agreement on the testing setup can be reached.

Projects

The graphology project will continue upon the return of the person in charge from abroad. A campaign targeting schoolchildren will be launched through small group activities.

Skeptikko Book

Possibilities are being explored to publish a concise "Skeptikko Handbook" summarizing skeptical questions for proponents of fringe science and answers for typical questions posed by enthusiasts to skeptics.

Summary of Skepsis Member Survey

A survey in issues 11 and 12-13 of "Skeptikko" received responses from over 30 members.

1. Joining Skepsis: Reasons for joining included interest in the supernatural, reading books like "The Devil's Advocate," fatigue with sensationalized "fringe science" interpretations in the media, and interest sparked by James Randi's lectures.
2. Expectations Met: Generally, members are satisfied with the organization's activities but desire more active participation. It was also emphasized that science should not be made into a religion.
3. Participation in Events: One-third of respondents had attended organized events.
4. Areas for Focus: Members suggested focusing on:
* How fraudsters operate
* The spread of hoaxes
* Addressing "hoo-ha" stories in media
* Religious "hoo-ha"
* Increasing the organization's publicity
* Organizing lectures at adult education centers
* Translating Randi's books into Finnish
* More attention to medicine
* Influencing youth
* More information for non-members
* The psychology of "hoo-ha"
* Increasing membership
* Articles in daily newspapers
* Astrology
5. Desired Events: Members expressed a desire for public discussions, debates, and "head-to-head" events. Lectures touring Finland were also desired by members outside the capital region.
6. Guest Speakers: Both critics and proponents of "hoo-ha" were desired as speakers.
7. Magazine Development: Members were generally satisfied with the magazine but suggested thematic issues, translated articles, book reviews, bibliographies, and articles exposing fraudsters.
8. Volunteer Work: Seven members indicated willingness to volunteer.
9. Public Stance: Opinions were divided on whether Skepsis should take a firmer or more tolerant stance in public.
10. Hoo-ha Award Nominees (1991/92): Rauni-Leena Luukanen-Kilde received the most votes, followed by Steinerism.

To Tallinn!

A group of Finnish skeptics planned to travel to Tallinn, Estonia, in the summer to meet with Estonian friends and explore the local culture. The Estonian skeptics had formed a support group of about twenty scientists and journalists aiming to promote a skeptical perspective against the spread of superstition in their country. The trip was scheduled for August 8-9, using the ferry "Liisa" or "Georg Ots." Accommodation was recommended at the Olympia or Palace hotels. Skepsis was not organizing this as a group trip, and participants were responsible for their own visas, tickets, and hotel bookings. Secretary Lauri Gröhn requested notification of attendance to help coordinate with the Estonian hosts, who would arrange local activities but not meals or other expenses.

Skepticism in Italy

The Italian skeptic organization, Comitato Italiano per il Controllo delle Affermazioni sui Paranormale (CICAP), was organizing the European Skeptics' meeting in Aosta, Italy, in July. The theme was "What evidence exists for paranormal claims?" The meeting was scheduled for July 17-19. The first day included a meeting for Italian skeptics, with simultaneous translation available for the main sessions. Topics included Astrology, ESP, "Mind over matter," and experimental approaches. Interested individuals were advised to contact Victor Balli in Torino for details. The participation fee was 60,000 lire, with hotel prices ranging from 45,000 to 185,000 lire per night. For those wishing to present a paper, Steno Ferluga in Trieste was the contact person.

English Summary

A Quack's Defence by Matti Virtanen:

This article, based on court records from January 1992, details the case of a four-year-old boy in northern Finland who died in April 1991 after his parents, influenced by an alternative healer, discontinued his insulin treatment for diabetes and opted for "Kuhne-baths." The healer administered the baths herself when the boy's condition worsened. The article quotes statements from the parents and the healer, highlighting a mindset dogmatically opposed to medicine. The healer was sentenced to six months in prison but was released on probation.

An Interview with Paul Daniels by Michael Hutchinson:

Magician Paul Daniels discusses his career, magic, and plans with Mike Hutchinson of the British skeptics. He shares his views on Uri Geller and James Randi. This article was originally published in "The Skeptic" magazine and translated by Ilkka Tuomi.

Fantasy, Fiction, Fact. by Veli Toukomies:

Following a visit by Indian skeptic B. Premanand to Finland, where he demonstrated "god-men's" tricks, Veli Toukomies presented his classification of miracles: 1) Factual miracles (believed to have happened), 2) Fictional miracles (believed possible by adherents, though unproven), and 3) Fantastic miracles (created by imagination, requiring no proof).

Skepsis's Purpose and Principles

Skepsis, founded in 1987, is a Finnish organization of skeptics. Its principles align with those of the US-based CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), though it operates independently while cooperating with CSICOP and similar organizations. The organization's statutes state its purpose is to:

• Promote objective and unbiased scientific research into paranormal claims, without prior judgment.
• Maintain a network of people interested in such research and connect with similar domestic and international communities.
• Publish articles and books investigating paranormal claims, and compile bibliographies of relevant publications.
• Organize meetings and conferences related to the field and engage in educational and informational activities.

The organization is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. Membership is open to individuals and legal entities who accept these principles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical and evidence-based approach to evaluating claims of the paranormal and pseudoscientific phenomena. It highlights the importance of scientific methodology, critical thinking, and debunking hoaxes and misinformation. The organization actively engages in public education and aims to foster a more rational public discourse. The editorial stance is clearly against pseudoscience and in favor of scientific inquiry and critical evaluation.