1993-3-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 3/93
Date: September 10, 1993
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, titled "Skeptics and Religions," delves into the complex relationship between skepticism, various belief systems, and the psychological underpinnings of faith and pseudoscientific convictions. The cover features an illustration of a woman symbolizing knowledge and inquiry, holding a book and a globe, reflecting the magazine's critical and analytical approach.

Skeptics and Religions

The lead article, "Skeptics and Religions" by Professor Nils Mustelin, addresses the common question of why Skepsis (the Finnish Skeptics Society) focuses on seemingly minor 'hoaxes' rather than larger religious phenomena. Mustelin draws parallels between religious belief and pseudoscientific convictions, noting their shared disregard for empirical and critical methods. He identifies figures like Rudolf Steiner, L. Ron Hubbard, and Rauni-Leena Luukanen-Kilde as modern-day authorities analogous to religious texts. While acknowledging that different belief systems vary, Mustelin points to their differing attitudes towards scientific methodology. He contrasts traditional religions, which often interpret their doctrines metaphorically in light of scientific progress, with pseudoscientific movements that present claims in direct conflict with established science. The article notes that even within Christianity, there's a spectrum from open-mindedness to fundamentalism, citing the example of "scientific creationism" in the US.

Mustelin emphasizes Skepsis's commitment to being non-denominational, allowing for critical examination of empirical claims regardless of their ideological or religious backing. He argues that contemporary pseudoscientific, neo-religious, and commercialized belief systems present more significant challenges for research and education than traditional religions.

Eino Kaila's Twilight Corner

Authored by Jouko Aho, this section explores the views of Eino Kaila, a pioneer in scientific psychology and a logical-positivist philosopher, on parapsychology. Despite his rigorous scientific approach, Kaila had a personal interest in phenomena like telepathy and dowsing, which he referred to as his "twilight corner." The article details Kaila's correspondence with Professor Arvi Grotenfelt in the 1920s, where Kaila expressed his skepticism about mediumistic phenomena, influenced by critical analyses of occultism. Kaila's public stance on parapsychology was most clearly articulated in a 1949 article about the Westerkulla murder case. He explained the purported clairvoyance in the case through natural sensory perception and subconscious reconstruction, advocating for natural explanations before resorting to supernatural ones. While not outright denying the possibility of psychic abilities, Kaila consistently prioritized empirical evidence and scientific reasoning. His colleagues recall his interest in telepathy but also his disappointment at the lack of solid evidence. The article also touches upon Kaila's opposition to the establishment of a parapsychology professorship in Finland.

What Does Finland Believe In?

Marketta Ollikainen's article presents the findings of a survey conducted in May 1993 by Gallup Fennica, commissioned by the Church Research Institute. The survey revealed that a significant portion of Finns hold beliefs in various paranormal and supernatural phenomena. Specifically, 35% believe in UFOs, 32% in spiritual healing, 24% in reincarnation, 18% in horoscopes, 17% in mediums, 13% in witchcraft, and 10% in ghosts. The article notes that these figures include those who believe strongly and those who consider these phenomena likely. When focusing on strong believers, the numbers are lower but still substantial, with 7% believing in UFOs. The survey also indicated that students are more likely to believe in these phenomena than other demographic groups, challenging the assumption that higher education correlates with greater rationality and critical thinking. Professor Nils Mustelin comments that the results are surprising, suggesting that young people are more uncritical than previously thought, possibly due to the pervasive marketing of fringe beliefs. He emphasizes the need for critical education, especially for youth, and for skeptics to provide factual information to counter unfounded beliefs.

Academically Educated Do Not Stand Out

This section, continuing the discussion from the previous article, notes that academically educated individuals did not exhibit significantly more critical attitudes towards paranormal phenomena compared to the general population. While some percentages were slightly lower in certain categories, the differences were not substantial. The article also presents gender differences in belief, with men more likely to believe in UFOs, while women were more likely to believe in spiritual healing and horoscopes.

Less Than Half the Population is Absolutely Critical

The survey also quantified the number of people who are absolutely critical of paranormal phenomena. The percentages of those who do not believe in horoscopes, mediums, ghosts, witchcraft, spiritual healing, and UFOs are presented, indicating that a substantial portion of the population remains open to or believes in these concepts.

Surprising Results

Professor Nils Mustelin expresses surprise at the survey's findings, particularly the willingness of young people to believe in various unfounded phenomena. He suggests that critical thinking has not deeply rooted itself in Finnish society, especially among the youth, and attributes this partly to the massive marketing of fringe beliefs. Mustelin calls for increased efforts in critical education, especially in schools and for students, and the development of supplementary materials on paranormal topics.

"Dumb Skeptics"

This section offers a critical perspective on some skeptics, particularly those in Finland and Scandinavia. The author suggests that some skeptics uncritically accept information from international skeptical organizations without understanding the underlying agendas. The article posits that in some American, Russian, Swedish, and Norwegian UFO organizations, "skeptics" have gained leadership positions, facilitating the spread of coordinated disinformation through the media. The author implies that these skeptics are being manipulated.

False Memories of Past Lives

Authored by Kalevi Kuitunen, this article examines the concept of past-life regression and false memories. It discusses the work of Reima Kampman, whose research on multiple personalities suggested that detailed accounts given under hypnosis could be interpreted as evidence of past lives. However, Kampman's later research, involving hypnotizing the same subjects years later, revealed that their accounts changed significantly, suggesting that the memories were not of past lives but rather constructions influenced by current life experiences and suggestions. The article provides examples of how seemingly specific details from supposed past lives could be traced back to mundane sources, such as books or family history, indicating that these were not evidence of reincarnation but rather confabulations.

Stories Full of Inappropriate Details

This section, continuing the discussion on past-life regression, highlights how proponents of reincarnation sought to dismiss Kampman's findings. It points out inconsistencies and fabricated details in the recounted past-life experiences, suggesting that the narratives were not genuine memories but rather imaginative constructions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko strongly advocates for critical thinking, scientific literacy, and evidence-based reasoning. It challenges the uncritical acceptance of both pseudoscientific claims and, to some extent, the uncritical adoption of skeptical viewpoints without proper analysis. The magazine emphasizes the importance of education, particularly for young people, in fostering a critical mindset towards various belief systems, from traditional religions to modern pseudoscientific movements. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting skepticism as a tool for discerning truth from falsehood, grounded in scientific methodology and empirical evidence, while acknowledging the complexities and nuances of human belief.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/93, delves into various topics related to paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and skepticism. The magazine features articles on reincarnation, UFOs, the Urantia Book, and the controversial False Memory Syndrome, critically examining evidence and offering skeptical perspectives.

Reincarnation Claims and Historical Inaccuracies

The issue begins by examining claims of reincarnation, citing examples from hypnotic regression sessions. One article discusses subjects like Karolina Prokovjeff, who provided historically inaccurate details about Petrograd/Leningrad, and Mirja M., who described a Buddhist monastery in 1600s Thailand. Another subject, Mariza Combonellina, made anachronistic references to Plato and Socrates. The article highlights how these accounts often contain factual errors, suggesting they are products of imagination rather than genuine past-life memories. Thorwald Dethlefsen's book 'Experiences of Rebirth' is critiqued for similar issues, with examples of subjects misidentifying historical figures and events. The article also touches upon the case of Toivo Lehkonen, whose alleged memories of being a Hunnic warrior and a sailor are analyzed for historical inconsistencies, suggesting influences from literature like Felix Dahn's 'Attila'.

The UN and UFOs

A section titled 'The UN Did Not Believe in UFOs' details Sir Eric Gairy's efforts in the 1970s to get the United Nations to establish a department for studying psychic phenomena and UFOs. Gairy proposed that the UN declare 1978 the 'International Year of UFOs' and organize conferences. However, the UN General Assembly, through resolution 33/426 in 1978, politely declined, stating that member states could coordinate research into extraterrestrial life nationally and report findings to the UN Secretary-General.

The Urantia Book Mystery

Another article, 'The Urantia Mystery', investigates the origins of the Urantia Book, a large religious and pseudoscientific text. The author notes the secrecy surrounding its creation and publication by the Urantia Foundation in 1955. Research by Martin Gardner suggests that the book was compiled by a group associated with the Seventh-day Adventist church and the Kellogg family in Chicago. Psychiatrist William Sadler is identified as a key figure, with connections to the Kellogg family and the Adventist movement. The article also explores the name 'Urantia', linking it to 'Urania', one of the nine Muses in Greek mythology, representing love and the universe.

Miracles: Imaginary or Real?

Under the headline 'Imaginary Little Miracles or Real Big Miracles?', Veli Toukomies, Secretary of Skeptikko, discusses the concept of miracles. He categorizes miracles into statistical, ignorance, wonder, and factual types, with only the last being considered a genuine, verifiable event. Toukomies argues that while religious texts are filled with accounts of miracles, there is a lack of concrete, verifiable evidence for such events in the modern era. He contrasts the 'divine intervention' of biblical times with the current emphasis on faith and the idea that God is present but not always intervening overtly. The article challenges readers to provide proof of miracles, offering a 10,000 Finnish mark reward for demonstrable paranormal phenomena.

False Memory Syndrome (FMS)

Martin Gardner contributes an article on 'False Memory Syndrome', discussing the rise of 'trauma therapy' in the 1990s. He explains how some therapists, using methods like hypnosis, encourage patients to 'recover' memories of childhood sexual abuse, often leading to the breakdown of families. Gardner points out that this trend is a resurgence of Freudian techniques that were initially questioned. The article highlights that many accusers are middle-aged women, and their parents often have higher education. The syndrome is characterized by the suggestion of repressed memories, which patients may initially deny but are eventually convinced of through therapy.

Skeptikko's Summer Excursion

The issue also includes a report on Skeptikko's summer excursion, which included a presentation on the Urantia Book by Stefan Tallqvist and a visit to the Metsähovi radio astronomy observatory. During the excursion, participants discussed the Urantia Book and the challenge of finding factual errors within it. The visit to the observatory provided insights into cosmology, quasars, black holes, and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to paranormal and pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance emphasizes the importance of verifiable facts and scientific methodology. The magazine challenges unsubstantiated beliefs, whether they relate to reincarnation, UFOs, or recovered memories, by scrutinizing historical accuracy, logical consistency, and the availability of empirical evidence. The recurring theme is the distinction between subjective belief and objective reality, with a strong advocacy for critical thinking and skepticism.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/93, focuses on the controversial topic of False Memory Syndrome (FMS) therapy and its implications. The magazine critically examines the methods and potential dangers associated with the recovery of repressed memories, particularly those of childhood sexual abuse.

The Myth of Forgotten Incest Experiences

The article "Insestikokemuksen unohtaminen pelkkä myytti" (The forgetting of incest experiences is just a myth) challenges the notion that traumatic childhood memories are often completely repressed and can be recovered years later through therapy. It argues that while sexual abuse is a reality, the idea of entirely forgotten traumas being recovered is a "mental health myth" that can destroy families and harm psychiatric practice. The piece highlights how modern court cases increasingly rely on 'recovered memories' from therapy, often without corroborating evidence, leading to potentially devastating consequences for the accused.

FMS Therapy: A Lucrative Business?

The magazine suggests that FMS therapy has become a lucrative industry, with books and media promoting 'survivor' stories. It points to best-selling books like "Courage to Heal" as examples of how this phenomenon is popularized, even by individuals without psychiatric training. The article details how suggestive therapeutic techniques can lead patients to 'remember' events that may not have occurred, citing examples of individuals who accused family members based on these recovered memories.

The Role of Suggestion and Hypnosis

Several articles delve into the role of suggestion and hypnosis in FMS therapy. It is argued that therapists, even if unintentionally, can guide patients to construct narratives that fit pre-existing theories of abuse. The text provides examples of how hypnosis can be used to elicit 'memories' that are later found to be fabricated or influenced by the therapeutic process itself. The case of Paul Ingram, who confessed to crimes against his children after intense questioning, is presented as a cautionary tale.

Counterarguments and Skepticism

The magazine presents a skeptical viewpoint, drawing on the work of psychologists like Richard Ofshe and Carol Tavris. They argue that 'recovered memories' can be unreliable and that the FMS phenomenon is often driven by commercial interests and a misunderstanding of memory. The article contrasts the views of American 'traumatists' with those of more cautious professionals who emphasize the fallibility of memory and the potential for suggestion to create false recollections.

FMS Therapy in Finland

The issue also touches upon the presence of FMS therapy in Finland, with psychiatrist Pekka Roponen expressing concern that the American trend might spread. Roponen acknowledges that genuine trauma can be repressed but emphasizes that memories can be altered and that 'recovered memories' can be implanted. He advocates for stricter regulation of psychotherapy in Finland to prevent the spread of unscientific practices.

Resistance and Skeptical Organizations

The article notes that resistance to FMS therapy is growing, with some individuals suing their therapists for creating false memories. It also highlights the role of skeptical organizations like the FMS Foundation and the Skeptical Inquirer in challenging the claims of FMS and promoting critical thinking about paranormal and pseudoscientific claims. The magazine provides contact information for these organizations and lists relevant publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of False Memory Syndrome therapy and the concept of recovered memories. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, questioning the scientific validity of FMS claims and highlighting the potential harm caused by suggestive therapeutic practices. The magazine advocates for evidence-based approaches in psychology and psychotherapy, warning against the uncritical acceptance of pseudoscientific theories that can have severe consequences for individuals and families.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 3/93
Publisher: Skepsis
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
Date: 1993

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, published by Skepsis, is dedicated to critical examination of paranormal phenomena, pseudoscience, and related beliefs. The cover prominently features the "SKEPSIS CHALLENGE," offering 10,000 Finnish marks to anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions, highlighting the magazine's commitment to empirical evidence and debunking.

Contents Overview

The magazine features a comprehensive list of past issues, serving as a bibliography of skeptical literature and research. It includes articles, book reviews, and correspondence that delve into various pseudoscientific claims and beliefs.

Book Reviews and Articles:

• Nostradamus Interpretations: The issue critically examines various interpretations of Nostradamus's prophecies, noting that many modern interpretations have little connection to the original texts and are influenced by the interpreters' own biases. It highlights discrepancies in translations and interpretations, particularly concerning historical events like World War II and the rise of "Greater Germany." The review also touches upon the work of Georg Ljungström and the nature of pseudoscientific claims in such interpretations.
• UFOs and Paranormal Phenomena: Several sections address UFOs and related phenomena. A review of a book on SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) criticizes its uneven quality, with a mix of scientific and speculative content, and highlights the inclusion of questionable material that could harm the credibility of serious SETI projects. Another article discusses the phenomenon of "quasimemories" from past lives, often recalled through hypnosis, and the insistence of believers despite historical inaccuracies. The "False Memory Syndrome" is also mentioned, referencing the formation of a foundation to combat dubious therapies that cause family distress.
• Astrology and Pseudoscience: The magazine reviews books that critically analyze astrology, questioning its scientific validity and its place in modern society. It also touches upon the broader issue of pseudoscience in various fields, including graphology, creationism, and alternative medicine.
• Psychology and Belief: Articles explore the psychology behind belief in paranormal phenomena, including the role of hypnosis, misperception, and folk beliefs. The issue also features a discussion on the nature of "miracles" and "stupidity miracles," contrasting genuine divine intervention with self-deception and flawed reasoning.
• Finnish Beliefs: An English summary highlights a Gallup study revealing that a significant portion of the Finnish population believes in UFOs, spiritual healing, reincarnation, and ghosts, with a notable tendency for young people and students to hold these beliefs.

Correspondence and Debates:

The "Postia toimitukselle" (Mail to the editor) section includes a reader's inquiry about the author Allen J. Hynekin and his work on UFOs, questioning his credibility as a leading ufologist. The magazine invites readers with expertise in UFO literature to respond.

Another correspondence discusses a dispute between Tapani Kuningas and Matti Virtanen regarding a phone call and research data, with the editorial board stating they will not publish mere arguments about who said what but will focus on factual corrections.

Events and Initiatives:

The magazine lists upcoming events, including a discussion series in Espoo on "Belief, Science, and Doubt," and Skepsis's monthly meetings featuring talks on topics like Kirlian photography, "aura," and bioelectricity.

Skeptikko's Challenge:

The prominent "SKEPSIS CHALLENGE" on the cover and within the magazine serves as a direct call for empirical proof of paranormal phenomena, underscoring the publication's core mission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are skepticism, critical thinking, and the scientific examination of paranormal claims and pseudoscientific beliefs. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and against the uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims, particularly those made in the name of religion, alternative medicine, or fringe science. The magazine actively seeks to debunk misinformation and educate its readers about the fallibility of human perception and the importance of scientific methodology. The inclusion of a monetary challenge further emphasizes their commitment to rigorous proof and their skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 3/93
Publisher: Skepsis
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
Date: Undetermined

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, published by the Finnish skeptical organization Skepsis, primarily serves as a recruitment tool and information source for potential members and subscribers.

Membership Drive

The cover prominently features the call to action: "LIITY SKEPSIKSEN JÄSENEKSI!" (Join Skepsis!). The inside page provides a detailed membership application form, requesting personal information such as name, profession, address, and contact details. It also asks for information regarding the applicant's experience with paranormal topics, relevant publications, membership in other scientific societies, and specific interests. Applicants must sign a declaration agreeing to the organization's principles and purpose.

Membership Fees and Subscription

The annual membership fee is stated as 75 Finnish Marks (mk), with a reduced rate of 30 mk for individuals under 20 years old. This fee includes a subscription to the Skeptikko magazine. The issue also clarifies that one can subscribe to the Skeptikko magazine without becoming a member for the same annual fee of 75 mk, by simply indicating this preference on the application form.

Payment for membership and subscriptions can be made to the organization's bank account: PSP 6371 513.

About Skepsis

Page 2 delves into the background and mission of Skepsis, an organization founded in 1987. It states that Skepsis's operating principles are similar to those of the American CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), though Skepsis operates independently while collaborating with CSICOP and other similar organizations. The article details the organization's statutes, outlining its purpose:

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

The organization explicitly states it is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. The board of Skepsis has the authority to approve applications from individuals and legally recognized entities who accept the organization's principles.

Skepsis Board and Scientific Advisory Board

Page 3 lists the current board members of Skepsis ry, including Lauri Gröhn as chairman, Hannu Karttunen as vice-chairman and editor-in-chief of Skeptikko-lehti, and Veli Toukomies as secretary. It also lists the members of Skepsis-yhdistyksen tieteellinen neuvottelukunta (Skepsis Association's Scientific Advisory Board), featuring a number of professors and doctors from various academic fields, with S. Albert Kivinen serving as its chairman.

Contact information for membership and subscription inquiries is provided, directing individuals to the association's secretary, Veli Toukomies, at Rintamamiehentie 15, 06100 PORVOO, and a phone number (915-149 320).

Book Review: "Paholaisen asianajaja" (The Devil's Advocate)

Page 4 features a review of "Paholaisen asianajaja, opaskirja skeptikoille" (The Devil's Advocate, a guide for skeptics), a book published by Skepsis and Ursa in 1989. The review urges readers to acquire the book quickly, as it may become scarce. It is described as the only Finnish-language work to critically evaluate various pseudoscientific claims, including astrology, dowsing, UFOs, and faith healing. The article explains the historical role of the 'advocatus diaboli' (devil's advocate) in the medieval Catholic Church, whose function was to gather evidence against claims of miracles to ensure they were not based on superstition. The book is available through Ursa (phone 90-174 048).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are membership recruitment for Skepsis, promoting critical thinking and scientific investigation of paranormal claims, and highlighting the organization's publications. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of skepticism and evidence-based reasoning, as exemplified by the review of "Paholaisen asianajaja" and the general information provided about Skepsis's mission.