1993-1-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

SKEPTIKKO 16, Spring 1993, is an issue of the Finnish skeptical magazine published by Skepsis ry. The cover features a cartoon by an unknown artist depicting two stylized figures interacting with a television set, with the magazine's title prominently displayed. The issue is dated "KEVÄT 1993" (Spring 1993) and is identified as "NUMERO 16" (Number 16).

Editorial Board and Advisory Council

The magazine lists the board of Skepsis ry, including Lauri Gröhn as chairman, Hannu Karttunen as vice-chairman, Veli Toukomies as secretary, and Karlo Kauko as editor-in-chief and treasurer. The Scientific Advisory Board comprises numerous professors and docents, including S. Albert Kivinen (chairman), Nils Edelman, Kari Enqvist, Harry Halén, Pertti Hemánus, Raimo Keskinen, Kirsti Lagerspetz, Raimo Lehti, Anto Leikola, Matti A. Miettinen, Ilkka Niiniluoto, Heikko Oja, Heikki Räisänen, Veijo Saano, Anssi Saura, Tytti Sutela, Raimo Tuomela, Yrjö Vasari, Johan von Wright, and Risto Vuorinen.

Contact information for membership, subscriptions, and other inquiries is provided for Veli Toukomies. The editorial and layout for Skeptikko magazine are handled by Lavengri Press, with Marketta Ollikainen listed. The ISSN is 0786-2571.

Table of Contents

The issue features a diverse range of articles and discussions:

• Pääkirjoitus (Editorial): "Mihin hukkui huuhaa-palkinto" (Where did the nonsense award disappear to?) by Karlo Kauko, and "Mediameedio luo oppinsa tiedotusvälineiden fantasioista" (Media creates its lessons from media fantasies) by Jukka Pekka Puro.
• Articles: "Ufotutkimus löytyi" (UFO research found) by Matti Virtanen, "Raportti Kallaveden 'ufonkappaleen esitutkinnasta'" (Report on the preliminary investigation of the Kallavesi 'UFO object'), "Faaraon kirous" (Pharaoh's curse) by Ilpo V. Salmi, and "Ihmeen ihmettelyä" (Wondering about miracles) by Veli Toukomies.
• LYHYESTI (Briefly): News items including the homeopathy law going to parliament, Geller vs. Randi, Eurosceptics in Britain, and Skeptikko's renewal.
• KESKUSTELUA (Discussion): "Väärä ja vähemmän väärä" (Wrong and less wrong) by Erkki Nykänen, "Kiinalainen juttu" (Chinese story) by Veijo Saano, and "Ufoja ja todennäköisyyksiä" (UFOs and probabilities) by Jukka Piironen.
• SKEPSIKSEN VUOSIKOKOUS (Skepsis Annual Meeting): Skepsis association's activity report for 1992 and activity plan.
• English Summary

The disclaimer states that all published writings are the authors' own opinions and do not represent the official stance of the editorial staff, Skepsis, or CSICOP.

Mihin Hukkui Huuhaa-palkinto (Where did the nonsense award disappear to?)

By Karlo Kauko, Editor-in-chief of Skeptikko magazine.

This editorial discusses the absence of the "Huuhaa-palkinto" (nonsense award) in the previous year, despite numerous candidates. Kauko humorously suggests that perhaps no one was awarded to avoid overshadowing the Barcelona Olympics. He criticizes A-lehdet, a family magazine publisher, for promoting pseudoscientific practices like gem therapy and homeopathy through its publications, citing "Voi Hyvin" magazine as an example. The editorial also touches upon UFO-related content in advertising television, noting a panel discussion that seemed to favor UFO believers. WSOY, a prominent Finnish cultural institution, is also mentioned for publishing works like "Homeopatian käsikirja" (Handbook of Homeopathy), which the author implies is pseudoscientific.

Mediameedio luo oppinsa tiedotusvälineiden fantasioista (Media creates its lessons from media fantasies)

By Jukka Pekka Puro, Speech communication vs. assistant, University of Jyväskylä.

Puro argues that paranormal phenomena are increasingly integrated into media reality through films and television shows. These media can construct believable, yet fictional, realities that reinforce existing beliefs in the supernatural. He introduces the concept of "media mediums" who exploit these media-generated fantasies, using scientific-sounding terminology to lend credibility to their claims. Examples include the misuse of terms like "emission" and "absorption" in relation to UFOs, or the concept of "bifurcation" to explain away scientific unknowns. The article references Orson Welles' "War of the Worlds" broadcast as an example of how media can create a powerful, albeit fictional, reality that causes widespread panic.

Fiktiosta tiedettä (From fiction to science)

This section further elaborates on the "media medium" concept. These individuals take media fantasies and build their own narratives, often using scientific jargon to sound authoritative. Puro highlights how terms from physics and mathematics are particularly susceptible to misuse. He notes that while media can popularize science, it can also be used to mislead, creating a false sense of understanding or promoting fringe theories as new scientific paradigms. The article warns against the dangers of media mediums who present fictional worlds as reality, potentially alienating audiences from genuine scientific inquiry.

"Marsilaiset tulevat" ("The Martians are coming")

This subsection discusses how media can create convincing, albeit false, realities. It references Rauni-Leena Luukanen's claims about UFO communication being based on quantum physics principles, which, while sounding scientific, may be nonsensical to the average listener. The author draws a parallel to Bertrand Russell's quote, "The president of England is bald," illustrating how a statement can be structurally sound and plausible but factually incorrect. The example of Orson Welles' "War of the Worlds" is reiterated as a prime instance of media-induced panic based on fictional events.

Televisio luo heuristisia maailmoja (Television creates heuristic worlds)

This section distinguishes between fictional works like Welles' "War of the Worlds" and the more insidious influence of "media mediums" who present their narratives as factual. It critiques television documentaries, using the example of a program on chaos theory, which, despite its illustrative examples, could be misinterpreted to support pseudoscientific ideas. The article warns that terms like "flow" can be twisted to support philosophical concepts like "panta rhei" (everything flows), suggesting that Western science is once again mistaken. The danger lies in media mediums creating a new "heuristic worldview" that positions itself as superior to traditional science, which they portray as formal, calculative, and detached.

Tiede kansanomaisemmaksi (Science becoming more popular)

This section offers advice on how to counter the influence of media mediums. It suggests that science should engage in more popularization, especially on topics that media mediums tend to exploit, focusing on eliminating metaphysical elements. It also proposes subjecting media mediums themselves to critical public scrutiny, similar to tactics used against Scientology. The article concludes by stating that science's role is not to extinguish belief in the paranormal, which can serve as a substitute for religion, but to help people distinguish between fictional realities (like those in "Star Trek") and actual reality.

Ufotutkimus löytyi (UFO research found)

By Matti Virtanen, Editor.

Virtanen discusses a previous article in Skeptikko about UFOs and a TV panel where "UFO researchers" presented a mysterious object claimed to be from an alien spacecraft. Despite promises, the research report was difficult to obtain. However, at a UFO event at the science center Heureka, Skeptikko representatives were given a five-page document titled "Appendix to the Finnish UFO Researchers' Quarterly Report 4/1977: METALLIC OBJECT FELL FROM A UFO - UNIVERSITY RESEARCHERS BAFFLED: NO RATIONAL EXPLANATION".

The article notes that it is still unknown if the metallic object's research has been published in any scientific journal. The magazine publishes key parts of the UFO researchers' report, leaving the scientific validity to the reader's judgment. The object, weighing 15 grams and measuring 3.6 cm long and 6 mm thick, was sent to the geological department of Abo Akademi for analysis. The X-ray analysis revealed 12 elements, including iron. The researchers concluded that the object could not be magnetite because the iron was in a "reduced form." The report states that naturally occurring reduced iron can be found in volcanic ejecta, but only in a few locations on Earth.

Skepsis tutkii jos on tutkittavaa (Skepsis investigates if there is something to investigate)

This section continues the discussion on the Kallavesi UFO object. Virtanen emphasizes Skepsis's principle of not taking a stance aprioristically but rather investigating claims. He argues that the metallic object, presented by UFO enthusiasts as the best evidence for alien visitation, warrants attention. He acknowledges that scientific research is expensive and appeals to organizations like VTT (Technical Research Centre of Finland) and universities to investigate the object. If it proves to be from a UFO, it would bring fame; if it's space debris or something else, it would be a significant contribution to the Finnish UFO debate.

The UFO researchers' report stated that preliminary investigations suggested the object was a "technical object" and "not normal space debris." Further research is needed to determine if it is unusual space debris or something else. The article invokes David Hume's principle of comparing competing explanations, suggesting that the most likely explanation for the object's origin is human, not alien, unless there is extraordinary evidence to the contrary. The author stresses the importance of research to resolve such claims.

OIKAISU (Correction)

This section includes a correction regarding a previous UFO article by the author. Virtanen clarifies that he had requested copies of the research reports for the metallic object. He recounts calling Tapani Kuningas the day after a TV UFO program, but Kuningas was traveling and could not answer. Virtanen states that he called the number provided on television and spoke to someone who informed him that the reports were with Tapani Koivula, not Kuningas. Virtanen admits to making an error by not taking notes during the conversation and warns that UFO enthusiasts can use even small mistakes by skeptics to bolster their beliefs.

RAPORTTI KALLAVEDEN "UFONKAPPALEEN" ESITUTKINNASTA (Report on the preliminary investigation of the Kallavesi "UFO object")

This is an excerpt from a report by Finnish UFO Researchers from 1977 concerning an object found in Kallavesi by Raimo Blomqvist in 1965. The report describes the object's appearance as like a torn piece of a heavily oxidized plate, with "oxidized surfaces." Geiger counter and isotope detector readings indicated no unusual radioactivity (energy range 100 keV). The electrical conductivity of the flat surfaces was poor, similar to insulators. The object was magnetic, affecting iron filings sprinkled on paper.

Research on the object began in 1975. The report states that the 15-gram, 3.6 cm long, 6 mm thick object was sent to the geological department of Abo Akademi for X-ray analysis, which identified 12 elements, including iron. The researchers concluded that the object could not be magnetite because the iron was in a "reduced form." They noted that naturally occurring reduced iron can be found in volcanic ejecta, but only in a few locations on Earth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are skepticism towards paranormal claims and pseudoscience, media criticism, and the importance of scientific inquiry. The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning. The editorial stance is clearly that of a skeptical organization aiming to debunk unfounded beliefs and promote scientific literacy. The articles highlight how media can be used to create and perpetuate pseudoscientific narratives, and they advocate for a rigorous approach to investigating extraordinary claims, emphasizing the need for scientific evidence and rational explanations over anecdotal accounts or sensationalism. The magazine also touches upon the role of organizations like Skepsis in fostering critical discourse and educating the public.

Skeptikko, issue 16, Spring 1993, is a Finnish publication focused on critical examination of paranormal claims and pseudoscientific phenomena. This issue delves into a mysterious artifact, the debunking of a famous historical myth, and a philosophical exploration of miracles.

The Kallavesi Artifact: A Technical Object?

The issue begins by detailing the investigation into an object found near Kallavesi, Finland. Ufologists, after initial analysis, concluded that the object could not be a geological formation or a meteorite. Its elemental composition, with several elements present in percentages far exceeding those found in meteorites, and the presence of multiple distinct layers, led them to classify it as a "technical artifact" or a "made object."

Further analysis involved cutting the object, revealing a layered structure. The central layer was described as partially metallic iron, with surrounding layers of dark grey and light grey material, primarily oxides. The metallic layer was not perfectly centered, and its thickness varied. The oxide layers suggested exposure to a high-temperature oxidizing environment, estimated between 650 and 800 degrees Celsius for several weeks.

Attempts to identify the object's origin were made by consulting experts at the University of Turku and Åbo Akademi. While initial suggestions included magnetite, the metallic iron form was deemed inconsistent. Professor Papunen from the University of Turku suggested it might be "space debris." However, the unusual elemental composition, particularly the presence of rare elements, ruled out it being a common piece of space junk or a typical piece of equipment.

Skeptikko notes that the analysis was conducted by ufologists and that the exact laboratories and methods used were not fully detailed in the report, leaving some ambiguity about the scientific rigor of the findings. The article includes a table detailing the chemical composition of the object's core and oxide layers.

The Pharaoh's Curse: Myth vs. Reality

The magazine then shifts focus to the enduring myth of the "Pharaoh's curse" surrounding the tomb of Tutankhamun. The article traces the origin of the myth to the opening of the tomb in November 1922 by Egyptologist Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon.

Following the discovery, sensationalist media reports fueled the idea that anyone disturbing the pharaoh's rest would face a curse. Incidents like the death of Lord Carnarvon from a mosquito bite shortly after the tomb's opening, and the alleged death of Carter's canary by a cobra, were interpreted as evidence of the curse.

Skeptikko presents a more rational explanation for these events. It highlights that many of the supposed victims of the curse died years later, often from natural causes or pre-existing conditions. The article cites studies by Egyptologists like C. Steindorff and Herbert E. Winlock, who in the 1930s systematically investigated the curse claims. Winlock's research, for instance, showed that out of 26 key individuals present at the tomb opening, only six had died by 1934, and of those who witnessed the opening of the sarcophagus, only two out of 22 had died by that year. Howard Carter himself died at age 64 in 1939, and other key figures lived into old age.

Scientific explanations for the supposed curse included the possibility of toxic substances or bacteria within the sealed tomb, or even radioactive contamination. However, the article suggests that psychological factors, such as suggestion and superstition, played a significant role in perpetuating the myth. The sensational nature of the story also made it highly marketable for the press.

Understanding Miracles: A Skeptical Perspective

The final section of the magazine, authored by Veli Toukomies, explores the concept of "miracles" from a philosophical and statistical standpoint.

Toukomies outlines four basic meanings of the term "miracle":

1. Statistical Miracle: An event that is extremely improbable, with a probability of zero, and for which there is no known explanation. The article questions where the line is drawn on statistical curves to define such an event.
2. Knowledge Miracle: An event or phenomenon that is not yet understood or explained by current human knowledge. The article posits that human knowledge is finite, and there will always be gaps.
3. Psychological Miracle: Events influenced by strong self-suggestion, where a person's belief can manifest in physical or psychological outcomes.
4. Miracle as a 'Story Larger Than Life': This refers to archetypal narratives that tap into contemporary concepts (like radioactivity or microbes) to explain the inexplicable, often suggesting a hidden, more profound reality beyond the visible.

The author argues that many phenomena attributed to miracles can be explained by statistical improbability, gaps in knowledge, or psychological factors. The article concludes by suggesting that approaching ancient mysteries, like those of Egypt, with a pre-existing mystical framework can obscure the actual historical and cultural richness of the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko strongly emphasizes a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding phenomena. The magazine actively debunks myths and sensationalized claims, whether they relate to UFOs, historical curses, or paranormal events. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for scientific inquiry and critical thinking over superstition and unsubstantiated beliefs. The recurring themes include the importance of rigorous analysis, the dangers of confirmation bias, and the power of psychological suggestion in shaping perceptions of reality. The magazine aims to provide a counterpoint to the often uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims found in popular media.

This issue of Skeptikko, number 16 from Spring 1993, is a Finnish-language publication focusing on skepticism and critical thinking. It features articles that examine phenomena from a scientific and rational perspective, often challenging pseudoscientific claims and beliefs.

Articles and Content

3. Ihmettelyihme (Wonder-Miracle)

This section explores the concept of 'wonder-miracles,' defined as events that evoke wonder, amazement, respect, or fear. It suggests that religion often frames divine events as miracles, even if they are natural phenomena. The article notes that even agnostics might ponder unexplained events. The concept is linked to the specific use of religious language. A dialogue between the comic strip characters Lassi and Leevi-tiikeri is used as an example, where Lassi argues that mathematics is a religion because its sums and results feel miraculous and require faith to accept.

4. Tosiasiaihme (Fact-Miracle)

This part defines a 'fact-miracle' as a real event that cannot be explained by current human knowledge. It posits that such events might indicate the influence of an otherworldly reality on our own, suggesting the existence of paranormal phenomena. A true skeptic, the article states, awaits the first piece of evidence with great interest.

Homeopatialaki menossa eduskuntaan (Homeopathy Law Going to Parliament)

This article reports on a proposed amendment to the medicine law in Finland that would register homeopathic, anthroposophic, and other natural remedies as 'medicines.' While these would undergo a 'lightened registration procedure' not requiring the same proof of efficacy and safety as conventional drugs, they would be labeled as such. The article highlights that manufacturers would no longer need to state that the product's efficacy has not been proven. It also mentions that the natural medicine industry is lobbying to remove or alter the proposed limit of one-tenthousandth of an active ingredient. This legislative change is part of a broader effort to harmonize Finnish medicine laws with EU directives, influenced by Germany's thriving natural medicine industry. The law is expected to be enacted by the following autumn.

GELLER VASTAAN RANDI (Geller vs. Randi)

This section details the ongoing legal disputes involving psychic Uri Geller and skeptic James Randi. It reports on a March 16, 1993, ruling by Judge Stanley S. Harris in Washington D.C., ordering Geller to pay CSICOP $106,433.97 in legal costs. Additionally, a Tokyo district court dismissed Geller's $1.28 million lawsuit against Randi but ordered Randi to pay Geller $4,274 for defamation, stemming from Randi calling Geller 'abnormal.' The article notes that Geller's previous lawsuits against Randi have been dismissed and that Randi appears confident about the outcome.

EUROSKEPTIKOT BRITANNIAAN ELOKUUSSA (Euroskeptics in Britain in August)

British skeptics have invited Finnish skeptics to speak at the Euroskeptics Conference 1993, to be held at Keele University in Staffordshire, England, on August 30-31. The conference will run concurrently with the 'Science for Life' conference, organized by The British Association for the Advancement of Science. The theme for the latter is 'Health, Medicine, and Well-being,' and one day of the skeptics' conference will be dedicated to this topic. Participants can also attend the 'Science for Life' conference, which runs from August 29 to September 3.

SKEPTIKKO UUDISTUU (Skeptikko is Renewing)

The editorial apologizes for the late publication of the first issue of the year and promises regular quarterly releases if sufficient material is provided. Marketta Ollikainen has been appointed as the editor. The article notes the rise of 'huhu' (hoax/nonsense) phenomena during the recession and calls for contributions from readers. The magazine aims to improve its visual appearance to attract more readers, though financial constraints are acknowledged. The goal is to triple the current print run to compete with publications like 'Ultima.'

KESKUSTELUA: VÄÄRÄ JA VÄHEMMÄN VÄÄRÄ (Discussion: Wrong and Less Wrong)

This article, written by Erkki Nykänen, is a response to an Isaac Asimov article in a previous issue of Skeptikko. Nykänen critiques Asimov's view that rejected theories are not necessarily wrong but merely imprecise, and that scientific progress is a refinement of approximations. Nykänen argues that theories contain axioms that can be fundamentally true or false. He uses examples like the ancient Greek concept of a flat Earth (Anaxagoras) and Ptolemy's geocentric model, stating these were not just imprecise but fundamentally wrong due to flawed axioms. He contrasts this with mathematics, where an approximation like 2+2=3.999 might be considered better than 2+2=17 in some contexts, but the fundamental axiom of integer arithmetic is key. Nykänen also discusses Newton's theory, suggesting it has fundamental flaws (e.g., absolute space and time, non-constant speed of light) that make it wrong, not just imprecise, as it cannot explain phenomena like atomic bombs.

KIINALAINEN JUTTU (Chinese Story)

This piece by Veijo Saano discusses a popular anecdote about ancient Chinese doctors who were paid only when their patients were healthy, losing payment if a patient fell ill. This story is often used to emphasize the importance of disease prevention and is linked to alternative and natural medicine. Saano questions the historical accuracy of this tale, citing a conversation with a Japanese cancer researcher, Goro Chihara, who described it as a beautiful folk tale. Saano suggests that belief in such stories reflects a magical view of medicine, where people seek protection from superhuman figures rather than taking personal responsibility for their health. He posits that Antti Pietiäinen, the rector of the Faculty of Pharmacology, uses this story to appeal to people's childlike need for protection.

UFOJA JA TODENNÄKÖISYYKSIÄ (UFOs and Probabilities)

Written by Jukka Piironen, this article critically examines the phenomenon of UFOs and the claims of ufologists. Piironen argues that the scientific perspective is often missing from ufology, which tends to overlook vast interstellar distances and the conditions necessary for life and its evolution. The default assumption among ufologists, he states, is that unexplained aerial phenomena are evidence of alien visitation. Piironen counters this by highlighting the immense distances involved, noting that even radio signals from Earth have only traveled a few dozen light-years. He also touches upon the difficulties of space travel and time travel, suggesting that while not impossible, they are highly improbable. The article concludes that visits by extraterrestrial civilizations to Earth are extremely unlikely, using Douglas Adams's 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' as an analogy for extreme improbability.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical and rational approach to understanding the world. It emphasizes the importance of scientific evidence, critical thinking, and the rejection of pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance is clearly against phenomena that lack empirical support, such as UFOs, certain alternative medicine practices, and unsubstantiated claims of psychic abilities. The magazine also engages with philosophical questions about knowledge, reality, and the nature of scientific progress. There is a strong focus on debunking myths and promoting a scientifically informed worldview. The publication also serves as a platform for discussion within the Finnish skeptical community and aims to foster a more critical public discourse.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 16
Volume/Year: 1993
Date: Spring 1993
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

Skepsis ry's Annual Report for 1992

This section details the activities of Skepsis ry, a Finnish association of skeptics, during the year 1992.

General Meeting

The annual general meeting was held on March 30, 1992, in Innopolis, with 24 members present. Nils Mustelin was elected chairman, and the board members elected were Lauri Gröhn, Helena Venho, Tytti Sutela, and Veli Toukomies. The meeting concluded with a viewing of excerpts from Juhan af Grann's UFO film.

Board of Directors

In its first meeting, the new board elected Tytti Sutela as vice-chairman and editor-in-chief of the Skeptikko magazine, Lauri Gröhn as secretary, and Helena Venho as treasurer. Following Venho's resignation on August 27, 1992, Karlo Kauko was appointed treasurer. The board convened 8 times throughout the year on the following dates: March 11, March 30, April 14, May 7, June 4, September 3, September 23, and November 5.

Membership

By the end of the year, Skepsis had 301 names on its mailing list, with 259 active members. The membership increased by 72 people during 1992.

Regional Activities

The Jyväskylä regional chapter began its activities in the spring of 1992.

Member Meetings

Four monthly meetings were held, with the first featuring Hendrik Relve, a skeptic from Estonia, as guest speaker. The second meeting was an open discussion. The third meeting's speaker was Antti Pietiäinen, discussing alternative medicine, and the fourth featured Vuokko Coco on the topic of astrology.

Lectures

Skepsis organized the following public lectures during the year:

• April 4: Intialainen Premanand lectured on 'Miracles Explained' at the university's large lecture hall.
• May 19 & 20: James Randi lectured in Tampere and Jyväskylä, respectively.
• Spring 1992: Skepsis members lectured at the Outokumpu adult education center as part of a series titled 'Usko, tieto epäily' (Belief, Knowledge, Doubt). Topics included:
• 'The skeptic's relationship to science and what is marketed as science' (Lauri Gröhn)
• 'Alternative medicine - treatment or fraud?' (Veijo Saano)
• 'Religion, nonsense, or raw business? The case of Scientology' (Tuomo Pietiäinen)
• 'Mental peace for a high price - a phenomenon of our time' (Pekka Roponen)
• 'The stars tell? - The strange worlds of astrology' (Nils Mustelin)

Board members also lectured at Jyväskylä University, Espoo adult education center, and the Odontological Society, and participated in television and radio programs and panels.

Summer Trip

An excursion to Tallinn was held on August 8-9, hosted by local skeptics. Eight members participated. The trip included a visit to the alleged UFO site in Merivälja.

Publications

The Skeptikko magazine was published three times in 1992: a double issue (12-13) and issues 14 and 15. The print run was 500 copies per issue. Nils Mustelin's article 'Rajatiedon, tiede ja skeptikot' (Fringe knowledge, science, and skeptics) was published in the book 'Mitä Missä Milloin 1993', which had a print run of 90,000 copies.

Skepsis Challenge

The Skepsis board committed to paying 10,000 Finnish marks to anyone who could demonstrate a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions. No inquiries were made regarding this challenge during the year.

Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board did not convene in 1992.

Huuhaa Award

The Huuhaa Award was not presented in 1992.

Delegation of Scientific Societies

The association used the 'säätytalo' for its meetings. Nils Mustelin was elected to a council responsible for selecting the year's science books.

Health and Knowledge Fair

Skepsis received an invitation to participate in the 'Hengen ja tiedon messut' (Health and Knowledge Fair) in October. The Skepsis booth sold the book 'Paholaisen astanajaja' (The Devil's Advocate) and distributed 'Skeptikon kysymyspakkia' (Skeptic's question pack).

Skepsis ry's Action Plan for 1993

Membership Activities

Monthly meetings will continue with presentations and open discussions. A lecture series will be organized to activate new members.

Association Chapters

Efforts will be made to establish one more local chapter. Member input is sought for initiating new chapters.

Huuhaa Award

Methods for presenting the award and its criteria will be developed.

Scientific Advisory Board

The three-year mandate of the advisory board members ends in September 1993. The new board will decide on its continuation.

Skeptikko Magazine

Four issues will be published, each with 40 pages. Illustrations will be increased, and members will be encouraged to contribute. At least one thematic issue is planned. Translations from magazines like 'Skeptical Inquirer' will be sought for the magazine.

Book Reviews and Bibliographies

Book reviews and bibliographies will be included. The board is seeking additional individuals for the editorial committee.

Skepsis Challenge

The new board will update the Skepsis challenge. Candidates will be tested if the claimed ability is testable and if the testing does not require unreasonable arrangements.

Projects

The graphology project will continue. A campaign targeting schoolchildren will be launched through small group activities. Veli Toukomies will release a developing paraplegic game.

Skeptikko Book

A concise 'Skeptikko Handbook' is planned, summarizing skeptical questions for proponents of fringe knowledge and answers for enthusiasts of fringe topics.

Health and Knowledge Fair

Participation for the second time is planned, with a more active approach.

English Summary

Media Mediums (Jukka Pekka Puro)

This article discusses media mediums, individuals skilled in manipulating media to promote their ideas, often using scientific terminology in a misleading way. It notes how parapsychological phenomena, poltergeists, and space fantasies have become prevalent in media entertainment, making it easier for the public to accept these phenomena without critical evaluation.

UFO Report Finally Found (Matti Virtanen)

After a long wait, ufologists released a 'scientific research report' on a small stone-like object found in Eastern Finland in 1964, claimed to be from a crashed UFO. The report, a five-sheet leaflet created about twenty years prior, details various analyses but lacks information on who conducted them and how. The author concludes that the report cannot be considered 'scientific' and skeptics are still awaiting real proof of the object's origin.

Pharaoh's Curse (Ilpo V. Salmi)

This piece recounts the events following the opening of Pharaoh Tutankhamon's tomb in 1922 by Egyptologist Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon. Mystical events were attributed to Pharaoh's revenge, and despite these being dismissed as imagination, the myth of the curse persisted for decades, amplified by international media.

A New Law for Homeopathic Products

The preparation of a new law for homeopathic and other alternative medicines is nearing completion in Finland. The Finnish Parliament is expected to debate the proposal soon, which aligns with EC directives allowing simplified registration for homeopathic products as medicines.

Geller against Randi

Legal disputes between Uri Geller and James Randi/CSICOP are detailed. On March 16, a Federal Court in Washington D.C. ordered Uri Geller to pay CSICOP $106,433.97 for fees and costs related to Geller's lawsuit against Randi and CSICOP. Conversely, the Tokyo District Court ordered James Randi to pay Geller $4,274 in damages for an insulting magazine interview about Geller's 'telekinetic power'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'Skeptikko' consistently promotes a skeptical viewpoint, critically examining claims of paranormal phenomena, alternative medicine, and pseudoscientific topics. The articles in this issue, including the annual report and the English summaries, reflect this stance by providing factual analysis, questioning unsubstantiated claims, and highlighting the importance of scientific methodology. The publication aims to educate its readers and foster critical thinking regarding extraordinary claims, as evidenced by its focus on debunking myths, scrutinizing research, and engaging in public discourse on these subjects.