1994-1-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 1/94
Volume: 20
Date: March 4, 1994
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
ISSN: 0786-2571

Articles

The Great Pyramid - A Silent Witness

This article by Ilpo V. Salmi delves into the Great Pyramid of Kheops, exploring its history, construction, and the numerous pseudoscientific theories that surround it. It begins with an Arabic proverb, 'Man fears time – time fears the pyramids,' setting a tone of historical mystery. The author details the pyramid's dimensions, the estimated number of stone blocks, and the quarrying and transportation methods, attributing its construction to the pharaoh Kheops (Khufu). The article debunks the idea that ancient Egyptians lacked the skill or strength to build such a structure without external help, emphasizing human ingenuity and willpower. It also touches upon the 'airshafts' and their possible connection to the Egyptian concept of the 'Ba' soul. The article contrasts historical accounts, like those of Herodotos, with modern 'pyramidology,' which attributes the pyramid's construction to lost tribes of Israel or even extraterrestrials. It also discusses the 'pyramid effect,' claiming that objects placed within pyramid shapes exhibit unusual properties, and mentions the Voyager spacecraft's use of a pyramid-like structure as a reference point.

New Age Movement Adherents Studied in Norway

Karlo Kauko's article examines a study by sociologist Janicke Kilian on the New Age movement in Norway. The study, based on a survey of individuals associated with the Mandala Center near Lillehammer, reveals that the movement primarily attracts women, with a significant portion being middle-aged and well-educated. The Mandala Center, initially a non-profit organization, has increasingly adopted a business-like approach. The study found that adherents, despite their education, often have lower incomes than expected, possibly due to the high cost of courses. Kilian suggests this may be due to a desire for societal change or a value system where money is not a primary concern. Interestingly, while men in the study had normal social networks, they showed a significantly lower rate of political party membership compared to women in the same group and the general Norwegian population.

Airship Hysteria a Hundred Years Ago

This section, authored by Robert E. Bartholomew, likely discusses the historical phenomenon of airship sightings and the public hysteria that accompanied them, a common theme in skeptical literature examining mass delusions and misinterpretations of phenomena.

Kirlian Phenomenon and Astral Bodies

Fernando D. Savarí's article explores the Kirlian effect, a photographic technique developed by Semyon Davidovitsh Kirlian, which captures luminous halos around objects. Proponents of pseudoscience, particularly those interested in the occult, interpret these halos as evidence of 'astral bodies' or 'bioplasm,' suggesting they represent an individual's life force independent of the physical body. The article explains the technical aspects of Kirlian photography, noting its harmlessness, and contrasts the scientific understanding of the phenomenon with its mystical interpretations. It highlights how these interpretations are often presented as scientific fact by those lacking a deep understanding of the subject.

Computer Diagnoses of Acupuncture Points

Veijo Saano's contribution likely discusses the application of computer technology to diagnose or analyze acupuncture points, potentially examining the scientific validity or pseudoscientific claims associated with such methods.

Paranormal Health Services from Russia

Another piece by Veijo Saano, this article probably investigates health services claiming paranormal abilities originating from Russia, a common area of interest for skeptical publications.

Future Events

This section lists upcoming events relevant to the Skeptikko readership, likely including lectures, conferences, or meetings related to skepticism and critical thinking.

Discussion

This is a forum for readers to share their views and engage in debate on topics covered in the magazine.

Books

This section provides reviews or mentions of books relevant to skepticism, critical thinking, or the debunking of pseudoscientific claims.

English Summary

A concise summary of the issue's main articles in English.

Skeptikko's Annual Meeting

Information regarding the annual general meeting of the Skepsis association.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine Skeptikko, through its articles, consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards pseudoscientific claims, paranormal phenomena, and unverified theories. It aims to provide a rational and evidence-based perspective, debunking myths and promoting critical thinking. The editorial board emphasizes that the opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official stance of the editorial team or Skepsis itself. The issue covers a range of topics from ancient mysteries like the pyramids to modern New Age beliefs and historical psychological phenomena, all examined through a lens of scientific scrutiny and rational inquiry.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 1/94
Date: January 1994
Publisher: Skeptikko
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish skeptical magazine, critically examines several topics often associated with pseudoscience and alternative beliefs. The articles focus on debunking myths and providing scientific explanations for phenomena that have captured public imagination.

Debunking Kirlian Photography

The first major section addresses Kirlian photography, a technique that produces images showing luminous coronas around objects, often interpreted as 'auras' or 'energy bodies'. The article, citing authors like Nona Coxhead and Alan Landsburg, presents these interpretations but then contrasts them with a scientific explanation. It argues that Kirlian photography is essentially a special case of gas discharge, a phenomenon studied as early as the late 19th century. The process involves passing a high-frequency electrical current through a gas, causing ionization and visible discharges. The article emphasizes that the 'aura' is not an inherent property of living organisms but a result of the electrical field interacting with the object, which acts as an electrode. Claims that Kirlian images reveal a person's emotional state, health, or even predict future events are dismissed as unfounded. The article also refutes the idea that Kirlian photography is a new invention, pointing to earlier experiments by Lichtenberg and the development of 'Lichtenberg figures' in the mid-19th century. It concludes that Kirlian photography is a laboratory phenomenon requiring an external energy source and has no connection to 'bio-plasma' or 'astral bodies'. Furthermore, it states that despite decades since its invention, no reliable diagnostic applications in medicine have been found for Kirlian photography, classifying it as a subject of pseudoscience and occult speculation.

The 1890s Airship Hysteria

The second significant article, authored by Robert E. Bartholomew, explores the 'airship hysteria' that swept across the United States between November 1896 and May 1897. During this period, thousands of Americans reported seeing unidentified flying objects, typically described as cigar-shaped with wings and propellers. Bartholomew argues that this phenomenon was not based on actual sightings of advanced aircraft, as heavier-than-air flight was still in its infancy (the Wright brothers' first flight was in 1903). Instead, he attributes the hysteria to a combination of factors: the public's fascination with new technology and aviation, fueled by sensationalized literature and news reports (like those about Salomon August Andree's balloon expeditions and Samuel Pierpont Langley's aerodrome tests); a collective wish-fulfillment driven by societal anxieties and rapid technological change; and the influence of mass media. The article highlights that many reported sightings occurred at night and that the descriptions often matched those found in popular science fiction of the era. It draws parallels with modern UFO sightings, suggesting that people tend to interpret ambiguous observations based on prevailing cultural narratives. The author cites research by T.E. Bullard, who cataloged numerous newspaper accounts, and notes that the descriptions of the airships were consistent with early hot-air balloons and experimental aircraft. The hysteria provided a sense of comfort and control during uncertain times, suggesting that humanity could master the skies.

Electroacupuncture: A Critical Examination

The third main article, written by Veijo Saano, critically examines electroacupuncture (E-aku), a diagnostic and therapeutic method that combines traditional Chinese medicine concepts with modern technology. The article explains that E-aku, particularly the method developed by Reinhold Voll, claims to measure electrical resistance at specific acupuncture points to diagnose various ailments, assess the body's reaction to substances, and determine the effectiveness of treatments like homeopathy. The author details how E-aku devices work by passing a weak electrical current through the patient and measuring resistance. Variations of this technique, such as EAV (Elektroakupunktur nach Voll), BFD, and SEG, are mentioned. However, the article strongly questions the scientific validity of E-aku. It points out that the 'Zeigerabfall' (indicator drop effect), a key diagnostic sign in Voll's method, is not specific to organ function but can be caused by changes in subcutaneous fluid distribution due to pressure from the measuring electrode. Factors like skin moisture, pressure applied by the examiner, and subcutaneous fat thickness significantly influence the readings. The article also references a doctoral thesis by Michiel Klein Breteler, which found that the Zeigerabfall phenomenon occurred even when the electrical current did not reach the organ in question, and that the readings were highly dependent on the pressure applied by the electrode. Furthermore, the article notes that E-aku is often integrated with homeopathic remedies, further blurring the lines between scientific diagnosis and pseudoscience. The author concludes that electroacupuncture, despite its claims of providing comprehensive diagnoses and personalized treatments, lacks empirical support and is considered a pseudoscientific practice, often used in alternative medicine circles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach. The recurring theme is the debunking of pseudoscientific claims and the promotion of scientific literacy. The magazine aims to provide rational explanations for phenomena that are often misinterpreted or sensationalized in popular culture. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, emphasizing the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, empirical evidence, and critical thinking when evaluating extraordinary claims. The articles collectively advocate for a scientific understanding of the world, distinguishing between established scientific principles and unsubstantiated beliefs or theories.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 1/94
Publication Date: January 1994
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish skeptical magazine, delves into various phenomena often categorized under 'rajatieto' (fringe knowledge) and alternative medicine, critically examining their scientific validity and societal impact.

E-diagnostics: A Fraudulent Business

The article "E-diagnostiikka raakaa bisnestä" (E-diagnostics: A Raw Business) strongly criticizes E-aku diagnostics. It highlights a study where E-aku diagnostics failed to accurately identify arterial blockages, performing no better than a coin toss. The author argues that E-aku is a worthless and harmful practice, leading people to pay for unnecessary treatments and dietary changes, and even to fear healthy food. The article points out that despite its proven worthlessness, E-diagnostics is being promoted, even in international science fairs, to enhance its credibility. The author draws a parallel to the Oulu Tietomaa UFO exhibition, where fringe topics gain legitimacy by being presented in prestigious venues, often driven by financial interests rather than scientific merit. The article also mentions that even in major cancer congresses, companies promoting alternative cancer treatments were present, while the scientific program simultaneously declared these treatments ineffective. The author speculates that hospitals facing financial difficulties might eventually rent space to E-aku and iridiagnostic practitioners.

Russian Folk Medicine Services in Finland

"Rajatiedon terveyspalveluja Venäjältä" (Fringe Knowledge Health Services from Russia) by Veijo Saano discusses the influx of foreign 'healers' and 'knowledgeable individuals' into Finland, particularly from Russia. These individuals, often presenting themselves as professors and academics, market their services through organizations like the International Folk-Medicine Company (IFMC). The article includes a translated letter from IFMC, detailing its mission to create a global database of healers, establish standardized assessment and certification for them, and develop an 'eco-friendly' folk medicine industry. IFMC also offers services like identifying geopathogenic zones, locating underground resources, warning businessmen about negotiation errors, and 'correcting' life force fields and karma. The author expresses skepticism about the claimed 92% healing rate and the effectiveness of these methods, especially in light of ongoing health crises in Russia, such as diphtheria deaths. The article questions the reliability of claims about folk medicine in the former Soviet Union.

Cereology and Crop Circles

"Cereologiaa ja viljaympyröitä" (Cereology and Crop Circles) by Hannu Karttunen introduces cereology, the study of crop circles. The article notes that crop circles, initially simple circles, have evolved into complex patterns and even fractals. While their existence is not in doubt (formed by flattened crops), their origin is debated. The author dismisses natural explanations like whirlwinds or ball lightning due to the increasing frequency of circles. A stakeout by cereologists failed to witness the formation of a crop circle, suggesting an 'shyness effect' common in fringe phenomena. The article posits that the patterns suggest intelligent activity, attracting ufologists. It quotes Rauni-Leena Luukanen-Kilden's book, which describes a 1991 crop circle as a cosmic diagram with a mathematical code related to spirituality. The article also mentions a hoax where two individuals created crop circles as a prank, highlighting how proponents of supernatural explanations often refuse to accept human agency.

Truth or Fiction?

This section presents several short articles questioning various claims:

• Telepathic Communication: An article in Tiede 2000 magazine is criticized for uncritically reporting claims of 90% success rates in telepathic communication during conscious sleep, citing research by Montague Ullman. The author questions the scientific rigor of such claims, especially given the publication's backing by the Finnish Academy.
• Graphology Software: A new software developed by Jari Kaponen, Tero Asp, and Timo Ketola aims to assist graphologists. However, the article points out that the software is essentially a database of graphological interpretations, not an analytical tool. It also raises concerns about the graphologist's subjective input influencing the results, and the potential for confirmation bias, as seen in the analysis of Professor Martti Tienari's handwriting.
• Astrology: The article briefly mentions an astrologer, Kirsti Bergroth, and the author's personal aversion to learning Swedish, humorously stating that if any book were to be burned, it would be the Swedish textbook.
• Extraterrestrial Life: Reijo Holopainen's claim that meteorologists and physicists believe in intelligent extraterrestrial life is discussed. The author criticizes Holopainen for conflating the existence of civilizations with their visitation to Earth.

What is the Use of Graphology?

This article presents a numbered list of criticisms against graphology, arguing for its lack of scientific basis and utility:

1. Lack of Scientific Literature: Many HR managers who trust graphology have not read the scientific literature.
2. Conflicting Schools: Different schools of graphology have contradictory claims.
3. Magical Roots: Graphology is rooted in magical principles of correspondence.
4. Stagnation: Unlike scientific fields, graphology does not evolve.
5. Pseudoscience: Graphotherapy, which claims to change personality by altering handwriting, is considered pure magic.
6. Unreliability: People cannot accurately identify descriptions of themselves from graphological assessments.
7. Barnum Effect: Clients perceive graphological assessments positively because they believe they are about them, a phenomenon known as the Barnum effect.
8. Barnum Effect in Other Pseudosciences: Astrologers, tarot readers, palmists, phrenologists, mediums, and graphologists all benefit from the Barnum effect.
9. Text vs. Handwriting: The content of the text provides more information than the handwriting itself, despite graphologists' claims.
10. Rise in Popularity: The rejection of lie detectors has increased graphology's popularity in the USA.
11. Lack of Evidence: There is no solid evidence for graphology's usefulness in personnel selection.
12. Publishing Standards: Graphological publications lack basic scientific standards.
13. Small Correlations: Many correlations in graphology are too small to be useful and are often illusory.
14. No Neurophysiological Link: There is no reason to assume a link between specific handwriting features and neurophysiological areas.
15. Brain Control: The brain controls involuntary actions like yawning; handwriting is not a unique window into personality.
16. Mood Influence: Mood has a greater impact on handwriting than introversion/extroversion.
17. Unlikely Link to Criminality: It is unlikely that tendencies towards theft, child abuse, or drug use are linked to specific brain regions.
18. Face Reading vs. Graphology: Reading facial expressions requires no training, so why should graphology?
19. Connection to Phrenology: Graphology shares similarities with phrenology, a discredited field.
20. Brain Damage: If handwriting reflected personality, brain damage should manifest in handwriting, but this is not consistently observed.
21. Neurological Models: Comprehensive neurological models of handwriting only emerged in the 1980s and do not support graphology.
22. Handedness Irrelevance: Handwriting is similar regardless of whether it's done with the left or right hand, or even toes, indicating a brain system for writing but no link to personality.

Events and Discussions

• Upcoming Events: The magazine lists upcoming lectures on the future of research at the Espoo Civic College, with various professors and experts presenting. The series is chaired by Ilpo V. Salmi, a board member of Skepsis.
• Book Discussion: A reader, Osmo Kahari, is looking for a copy of the book "Myy Paholaisen asianajaja" (My Devil's Advocate), which is no longer available. The editor notes that the book is out of print but might be found in some bookstores or borrowed from libraries, expressing hope for a new edition.

The Right Basis for Thinking

Turkka Helle, a member of Skepsis, reflects on Professor Nils Mustelin's observation that skeptics should delve deeper into the psychological factors behind belief in the supernatural. Helle argues that while human imagination is boundless, the focus should be on how we live and spread true knowledge, allowing unfounded beliefs to become a harmless minority. He suggests that 'life itself' is the answer to living correctly and that a self-centered perspective is the root of mere beliefs.

From Curiosity to Belief, From Experiments to Crystal Balls

Jouko Aho's book "Parapsykologit" (Parapsychologists) is reviewed. The book chronicles the history of parapsychology in Finland, from its early scientific orientation to its current status as a fringe interest. Aho's work highlights that while early parapsychology in Finland involved research and critical attitudes, it has since shifted towards a more belief-based approach. The review notes that the book analyzes the reasons for this shift, suggesting that the initial scientific goals of organizations like the 'Sällskapet för psykisk forskning' (Society for Psychic Research) have been overshadowed by a more metaphysical worldview. The reviewer praises Aho's thorough research and analysis, while also pointing out that the book could have defined terms more precisely, such as the distinction between spiritualism and spiritualism.

The review also touches upon the historical context of Finnish parapsychology, mentioning the acquisition of a crystal ball and 'aura glasses' in 1965 by the Finnish Society for Parapsychological Research. The lack of clear results from mediumship and ESP experiments led to a decline in academic interest, leaving the field to lay enthusiasts with different motivations.

Evidence of Miraculous Healings?

This article investigates claims of miraculous healings, focusing on 'healer' Marjaleena Aho. Aho claims her work has been studied by two universities and one hospital, with positive results. The referenced report is from Heino Tiik, titled 'Evaluation of the Significance of Natural Treatments using Bio-testing Methods.' The study reportedly measured 'balance states' before and after treatments. The article draws a parallel to former MP Mauno Pohjonen, who used a dowsing rod to measure georadiation and link it to cancer. The article then references Osmo Lahdenperä's book, which interviews several individuals, including Heino Tiik. Tiik is described as a 'Tallinn doctor' who can perform remote diagnoses and transfer bioenergy. The article details Tiik's method of measuring blood pressure using a dowsing rod, a ruler, and finally through meditation, and claims he can also measure 'hemoglobin and more.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, the editorial stance is clearly skeptical. The magazine consistently questions claims lacking empirical evidence, exposes pseudoscientific practices as potentially harmful and financially exploitative, and advocates for critical thinking and scientific methodology. Themes recurring include the critique of alternative medicine (E-aku, iridiagnostics, folk medicine), the debunking of graphology, the historical analysis of parapsychology, and the examination of phenomena like crop circles. The magazine aims to educate its readers about the prevalence of pseudoscience and the importance of scientific literacy.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 1/94
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Date: January 1994

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, published by Skepsis ry, presents a collection of summaries of articles covering various topics related to skepticism, science, and the paranormal. The magazine is primarily in Finnish, with an English summary section on the cover page.

Editorial: Sceptics and Politicians

Written by Lauri Gröhn, the editorial discusses the role of skepticism in relation to politicians and the government. It notes that while Skepsis is an apolitical association, politicians and the government are not beyond its criticism. The editorial expresses concern over recent government actions, such as aiding a private health center specializing in alternative therapies. It also mentions that some local councilors have demanded that alternative therapies be included in public health centers.

Article Summaries

The Great Pyramid of Egypt

By Ilpo V. Salmi, this article discusses the Great Pyramid of Egypt as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It touches upon the traveler's feeling of witnessing a superhuman achievement of humankind and mentions myths surrounding its construction.

Kirlian Phenomenon and Astral Body

Authored by Fernando D. Savarí, this piece delves into the Kirlian phenomenon. It references Russian electrician Semyon Davidovitsh Kirlian's 1939 report that the halo around a human body might reflect its physical state. The article notes that many believe Kirlian pictures provide evidence of an astral body, bioplasm, or vitality independent of the physical body. However, Savarí dismisses this phenomenon as a laboratory curiosity without scientific use.

The Airship Hysteria of 1896-97

Written by Robert E. Bartholomew and originally published in the Skeptical Inquirer (Winter 1990), this article recounts the 'Great Airship Wave' in the United States between November 1896 and May 1897. During this period, thousands of Americans claimed to have seen airships. Speculation varied, attributing the sightings to misperceptions of natural or man-made objects, heavenly bodies, fireballs, hoaxes, or hallucinations. Despite the varied explanations, a prevailing belief was that an inventor had secretly developed the first practical airship.

Computer Diagnosis from Acupuncture Points

By Veijo Saano, this article describes the development of electronic apparatus for measuring acupuncture points. The technology was first tested in West Germany in the 1950s. In 1971, Dr. Reinhold Voll, a proponent of traditional Chinese medicine, refined testing techniques to measure energy flows in the human body. Today, thousands of doctors utilize Voll's acupuncture diagnosis method, which employs electronic apparatus connected to computers.

Skepsis ry Information

Annual Meeting Announcement

A notice for the annual meeting of Skepsis ry is included, scheduled for Monday, March 23, 1994, at 18:00 in Porthania, University of Helsinki. The agenda includes opening the meeting, electing officials, approving the agenda, reviewing the 1993 activity report and financial statements, approving the 1994 plan and budget, deciding on membership fees, electing the board and auditors, and discussing other relevant matters.

Membership Application

A membership application form for Skepsis ry is provided. It details the process of joining the association, including sending the completed form to the secretary, Veli Toukomies. The annual membership fee is 75 mk (30 mk for those under 20), payable to the association's account (PSP 6371 513). The form also allows for magazine-only subscriptions at the same price. Applicants are asked to describe their experience with topics related to Skepsis's field, any relevant publications, membership in other scientific societies, and specific interests.

About Skepsis ry

This section provides background information on Skepsis ry, stating it was founded in 1987 as an association of Finnish skeptics. Its principles are similar to those of the American CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), though Skepsis operates independently while cooperating with similar organizations. The association's statutes outline its purpose: to promote objective and unbiased scientific research into paranormal claims without prior judgment, to maintain a network of interested individuals and similar organizations, to publish research articles and books, and to organize meetings and conferences for education and information dissemination. Skepsis ry is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. The board can approve applications from individuals and legal entities who accept these principles.

Board and Scientific Advisory Board

Lists of the Skepsis ry board members and its scientific advisory board are provided. The board includes Lauri Gröhn (Chairman), Hannu Karttunen (Vice Chairman and Editor-in-Chief), Veli Toukomies (Secretary), Karlo Kauko, and Ilpo V. Salmi. The scientific advisory board comprises numerous professors and docents from various fields, including Nils Edelman, Kari Enqvist, Raimo Keskinen, Kirsti Lagerspetz, Raimo Lehti, Anto Leikola, Matti A. Miettinen, Nils Mustelin, Ilkka Niiniluoto, Heikki Oja, Jeja Pekka Roos, Jan Rydman, Heikki Räisänen, Veijo Saano, Anssi Saura, Raija Sollamo, FL Tytti Sutela, Raimo Tuomela, Yrjö Vasari, Johan von Wright, and Risto Vuorinen.

Contact information for membership and subscription inquiries is directed to the secretary, Veli Toukomies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical examination of claims related to the paranormal, alternative medicine, and historical unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for scientific investigation and evidence-based reasoning, as exemplified by the association's mission and the content of the articles summarized. The magazine promotes a rational approach to understanding unusual claims and distinguishes between scientific inquiry and unsubstantiated beliefs.