1994-2-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 2/94
Date: June 21, 1994
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of SKEPTIKKO, a Finnish skeptical magazine, features a prominent article by Paul Kurtz titled "Uusskepsismi" (New Skepticism), exploring different facets of skepticism and its role in critical inquiry. The cover art depicts a stylized head, symbolizing the exploration of ideas and consciousness.

Articles and Content

Huuhaa televisiossa (Hooey on Television)

This editorial piece, written by Ilkka Niiniluoto, a Professor at the University of Helsinki, critiques the increasing prevalence of pseudoscientific and paranormal topics on television. Niiniluoto observes how television programs, in their competition for viewers, often present astrology, psychic claims, and other 'New Age' phenomena without critical scrutiny. He argues that while lighthearted engagement with such topics might seem harmless, it can lead to the exploitation of people's credulity, the promotion of unproven therapies, and the misuse of media for political gain. Niiniluoto advocates for a role of public education rather than censorship, suggesting that open discussion and critical analysis can expose the weaknesses of these claims. He encourages skeptics to actively engage in public discourse when pseudoscientific topics are presented.

Uusskepsismi (New Skepticism) by Paul Kurtz

Paul Kurtz, a renowned philosopher and founder of CSICOP, outlines his concept of 'new skepticism'. He distinguishes it from older forms of skepticism, emphasizing its positive and constructive nature as a research methodology. Kurtz posits that skepticism is vital for healthy critical thinking but warns against its extreme forms, such as nihilism, which can lead to an inability to form beliefs or make judgments. He argues that skepticism should be a tool for inquiry, helping to advance knowledge and understanding by demanding evidence and logical reasoning for claims. Kurtz differentiates between various types of skepticism, including nihilistic skepticism (which denies the possibility of knowledge), neutral skepticism (which suspends judgment), and 'new skepticism' (which is selective, cognitive, and aims to build reliable knowledge).

Kurtz asserts that while absolute certainty may be unattainable, we can develop reliable knowledge through empirical evidence, logical consistency, and experimental testing. He criticizes dogmatic atheism and paranormalism, advocating for a reasoned approach to evaluating all claims, including those related to religion and the paranormal. New skepticism, according to Kurtz, is essential for navigating the complexities of modern life and promoting human moral and social development.

Other Articles and Sections:

• Sisältö (Table of Contents): Lists the articles in the issue, including "Uusskepsismi" by Paul Kurtz, "Selitettyä ja selittämätöntä" (Explained and Unexplained) by Veli Toukomies, "Vaihtoehtolääkinnästä vähän tutkittua tietoa" (Little Researched Information on Alternative Medicine) by Marketta Ollikainen, "Kuppaussaunat lämpenevät" (Cupping Saunas are Warming Up) by Marketta Ollikainen, "Jälleensyntymisoppi on muodissa" (The Doctrine of Reincarnation is Fashionable) by Kalevi Kuitunen, "Biodynaamista ja luomuvieljelyä" (Biodynamic and Organic Farming) by Hannu Karttunen and Marketta Ollikainen, and "Sähkömagneettista saastetta" (Electromagnetic Pollution) by Hannu Karttunen.
• Toimitukselta (From the Editors): This section addresses the common perception of skeptics as overly critical or dogmatic. It features quotes from Veli Toukomies and Paul Kurtz, emphasizing that skepticism is about critical inquiry and openness to new ideas, not about dismissing everything. The editors acknowledge the challenge of educating the public about the difference between scientific and pseudoscientific claims, citing examples like the confusion between biodynamic and organic farming. They also note the difficulties faced by the magazine's volunteer staff in producing the publication on schedule.
• Yhdistys toimii (The Association at Work): This section likely details the activities and governance of the Skepsis ry organization, including information about its board and any awards or recognitions (e.g., Skepsis-diplomi).
• Kesäpakina (Summer Column): Features articles like "Alkoholijuomien voimalliset vaikutukset - pelkkää plaseboa?" (The Powerful Effects of Alcoholic Beverages - Just Placebo?) by Veijo Saano, and "Juhannusyön taikaa" (Midsummer Night's Magic).
• Skeptikon Kirjahylly (Skeptic's Bookshelf): A section dedicated to book reviews.
• Tulevia Tapahtumia (Upcoming Events): Information about future events related to skepticism.
• English Summary: A summary of the issue's content in English.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, the importance of scientific literacy, and the role of skepticism in navigating a world increasingly influenced by New Age beliefs and alternative therapies. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and critical thinking, advocating for an informed public that can distinguish between reliable knowledge and unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to demystify paranormal phenomena and promote a rational worldview, while acknowledging the need for open-mindedness in the pursuit of knowledge.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, issue 2/94, titled 'Näkökulmia selitettyyn ja selittämättömään' (Perspectives on the Explained and Unexplained) and authored by Veli Toukomies, delves into various worldviews and their intersection with skepticism. The magazine aims to provide a constructive and critical analysis of these areas, emphasizing the importance of clear language and definitions for better communication.

Worldviews and Skepticism

Veli Toukomies introduces a framework for analyzing different perspectives, categorizing them based on language (explicit vs. implicit) and mind (level of engagement with reality). The article presents six basic viewpoints:

1. Scientific Skepticism (Scientism): Pure materialism and atheism, asserting a single reality and relying on scientific evidence. It claims proof for a single reality and is dismissive.
2. Pseudoscience: Mimics scientific language but relies on a strong belief in its own methods and findings. It often involves manipulation and blurs the lines between genuine and pseudo-research. Examples include various fringe therapies and para-psychological phenomena.
3. Symbolic Faith (Religion/Art): A more liberal approach that sees reality as dualistic, but only the immanent aspect is accessible to scientific inquiry. The transcendent aspect is represented by the symbolic realm of art and faith. It is often questioning and declarative.
4. Literal Faith (Religion/Fundamentalism): A fundamentalist view that posits two distinct realities – the natural, earthly world and the supernatural, otherworldly realm. Both are understood literally. It often involves forceful proselytization.
5. Secular Faith (Non-religious Belief): Believes in the interconnectedness and unity of all existence, with no separation between this world and the next. It's a pantheistic or panentheistic worldview where everything is divine. The line between faith and knowledge is blurred. This is often expressed through art, poetry, and storytelling.
6. Skepticism: An open-minded approach to science and research that does not pre-emptively exclude any outcomes. It demands evidence but does not claim that nothing else can exist. It maintains an agnostic stance on the supernatural, acknowledging a lack of evidence for or against it. It respects different worldviews as long as they are not presented as proven facts.

The article contrasts 'A' perspectives (symbolic faith, skeptical science, secular faith) with 'B' perspectives (scientism, pseudoscience, literal faith), highlighting their differing views on psychological and physical coercion. It argues that while most people claim to value freedom and open discussion, their underlying beliefs often reveal a stance on coercion.

Alternative Medicine

Marketta Ollikainen's article, 'Vaihtoehtolääkinnästä vähän tutkittua tietoa' (Little Researched Information on Alternative Medicine), highlights the scarcity of data on the use and provision of alternative therapies in Finland. While official healthcare usage is well-documented, alternative medicine remains largely unquantified. Researcher Taina Mäntyranta notes that while official healthcare is tracked through insurance reimbursements, alternative treatments are not. She estimates there are around two hundred practitioners in Finland, with a thousand registered herbal products and many more food supplements available. Studies on alternative medicine usage have been conducted, but are often difficult to compare due to differing definitions of what constitutes alternative medicine.

Harri Vertio, chief physician at the Finnish Cancer Society, states that doctors have very little knowledge of alternative treatments, as it's not part of medical training. He points out that many cancer patients use alternative therapies without informing their doctors, making it impossible for physicians to assess potential interactions or impacts on conventional treatment. Vertio emphasizes that while doctors should be aware of these practices, integrating alternative medicine into basic medical education is not recommended. However, he suggests that supplementary training could be beneficial based on feedback.

A five-month course on alternative medicine was organized for doctors in Lahti, aiming to provide them with an overview of the field, its international developments, and different philosophical underpinnings. The course aimed to equip doctors to better evaluate these treatments, not to train them as practitioners. Vertio found that many participants were surprised by the widespread use of alternative therapies and the variety of methods employed.

The article also touches upon common myths surrounding alternative medicine, such as the belief that anything natural is good or that ancient remedies must be effective simply because they have survived. Vertio dismisses these as scientifically unfounded.

Cupping Therapy

Marketta Ollikainen's article, 'Kuppaussaunat lämpenevät jälleen' (Cupping Saunas Warm Up Again), discusses the resurgence of cupping therapy, an ancient folk healing method. Cupping, or 'sarvittaminen,' was historically used to remove 'bad blood' from the body, based on the humoral pathology theory that imbalances in bodily fluids led to illness. The practice was accepted by physicians for centuries until William Harvey's discovery of blood circulation in 1628. Despite this, cupping persisted as a folk remedy.

The article describes how cupping was traditionally performed in saunas. The patient would bathe, and then the cupper would apply animal horns (typically from cattle) to the skin near the affected area, creating suction. After applying several horns, the cupper would make small incisions within the circles created by the horns and then reapply the horns to draw out blood. This process was believed to remove the cause of illness.

Cupping was considered effective for a wide range of ailments, particularly headaches and body aches, and was also used preventatively. Folklorist Hindrik Strandberg's research indicates that cupping was primarily seen as a preventative measure, often performed in spring and autumn. Strandberg notes that cupping itself was not mystical and likely survived due to its perceived effectiveness and the patient's ability to witness the 'bad blood' being removed. While scientific evidence for its efficacy is lacking, some practitioners, like Ritva Parviainen, believe in its healing power for ailments such as neck and shoulder pain and menopausal issues.

Modern practitioners, or 'city cuppers,' often follow traditional methods, including performing cupping in saunas.

Reincarnation

Kalevi Kuitunen's article, 'Jälleensyntymisoppi on muodissa' (The Doctrine of Reincarnation is Fashionable), examines the growing belief in reincarnation, particularly in Western cultures. While the concept of soul transmigration has ancient roots, its widespread adoption in the West is a more recent phenomenon, influenced by movements like Theosophy. Kuitunen suggests this belief aligns with a modern tendency to downplay or deny the finality of death, contrasting it with medieval attitudes towards mortality.

The article notes that proponents of reincarnation often inflate the numbers of believers, using these figures as evidence for the doctrine's validity. Kuitunen points out that the concept of reincarnation is often presented without addressing the biological mechanisms of inheritance or the nature of consciousness. Different interpretations exist, with some believing in long intervals between lives, while others, like Sikhs, propose instantaneous transmigration.

Kuitunen also critiques books that promote reincarnation, arguing that they often misinterpret or misrepresent historical figures and texts to support their claims. He cites examples of individuals like Shakespeare, Voltaire, and Benjamin Franklin being wrongly associated with reincarnation beliefs, when their writings actually reflect Christian concepts of resurrection. He also disputes the claim that the Council of Constantinople in 553 abolished the doctrine of reincarnation, explaining that the council condemned Origen's teachings on the pre-existence of the soul and the concept of 'apokatastasis' (restoration), not reincarnation itself.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical and critical stance towards claims that lack empirical evidence. It encourages critical thinking, the demand for proof, and the clear definition of terms. The editorial stance favors scientific inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, while acknowledging the existence and historical significance of various beliefs and practices, even if they are not scientifically validated. The magazine promotes a nuanced approach, suggesting that while many beliefs can be understood and respected, some may need to be rejected if they are demonstrably false or harmful. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine skepticism and dogmatic certainty, and between scientific research and pseudoscience.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, dated 2/94, delves into various topics with a critical and skeptical perspective. The articles scrutinize claims of reincarnation, compare different agricultural methods, and examine the potential effects of electromagnetic pollution. The magazine also provides an update on the Skepsis association's internal affairs and activities.

Reincarnation Claims Under Scrutiny

The magazine critically examines the concept of reincarnation, particularly through the case of Jane Evans, whose supposed past-life memories were investigated by hypnotherapist Arnall Bloxham and documented by journalist Jeffrey Iverson. The article highlights that Iverson's research revealed that many of Evans's detailed accounts, including her lives as a Roman woman in Livonia, a Jewish woman in 12th-century Britain, and a servant to Jacques Coeur in 15th-century France, could be traced to specific historical novels. For instance, the details of her life as Rebecca were found in Walter Scott's 'Ivanhoe,' and her life as a servant to Jacques Coeur mirrored Thomas B. Costain's novel 'The Moneyman.' Despite these findings, the magazine notes that Bloxham's work and Iverson's book continue to be cited as evidence for reincarnation.

Rudolf Frieling's book 'Kristinusko ja uudelleen ruumiillistuminen' (Christianity and Reincarnation) is mentioned as an exception that acknowledges the church's historical rejection of reincarnation. Ian Stevenson's research on children who spontaneously speak about past lives is also discussed, with Stevenson reportedly becoming more skeptical as he delved deeper into the subject.

The article also critiques Oskar Reponen, described as a major proponent of reincarnation in Finland, for uncritically promoting such ideas in popular media. Reponen's reliance on questionable sources, including spiritualist literature and misinterpretations of biblical texts, is pointed out. The magazine contrasts this with the work of authors like Kalevi Kuitunen, who are presented as more grounded in critical analysis.

Biodynamic vs. Organic Farming

The magazine contrasts biodynamic farming with organic (luomu) farming. While both methods aim for natural cultivation, biodynamic farming, founded by Rudolf Steiner, incorporates astrological influences and planetary cycles into its practices, such as determining optimal times for sowing and harvesting. The article explains Steiner's division of planets into two groups and his inclusion of the Sun between them, reflecting an ancient geocentric model. Biodynamic preparations made from plants are used for pest and disease control.

Organic farming, on the other hand, relies more on conventional meteorological forecasts and natural cycles. The article details how organic farmers use crop rotation, fallow periods, and composted manure to maintain soil health. They avoid chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The certification process for organic products in Finland is also described, involving oversight by rural advisory centers and the use of a ladybug symbol.

Electromagnetic Pollution

The article 'Sähkömagneettista saastetta?' (Electromagnetic Pollution?) by Hannu Karttunen examines the effects of electromagnetic radiation. It discusses an article from Pirkka-lehti that linked radio transmitters to diseases like cancer, citing a 'dowsing expert' Pentti Ruusala as a source. The article simplifies physics to explain electromagnetic fields, noting that power lines generate strong fields that could potentially affect nearby residents, though research is considered controversial due to the complexity of environmental factors.

The article explains that the alternating current in power lines generates electromagnetic radiation. It clarifies that for significant radiation to occur, the power line would need to be hundreds of kilometers long. The energy of photons in this type of radiation is low and unlikely to cause harm. Shorter wavelength radiation, like X-rays or ultraviolet light, can break molecules, while visible light can affect weaker molecular bonds. Microwave ovens use radiation that causes water molecules to vibrate and heat up.

Radio wave radiation, with its longer wavelength, has even lower photon energy, typically corresponding to molecular rotational transitions. This type of radiation is used in radio astronomy to study interstellar matter. While strong microwave radiation can cause burns, radio wave radiation's low energy is unlikely to cause chemical changes.

The article also touches upon 'earth radiation' (maasäteily), which is linked to underground water and is claimed to concentrate in certain spots. It questions the scientific basis of such claims and the methods used to measure them, referencing the work of Paavo Huttunen and his unfinished doctoral thesis.

Skepsis Association Update

The magazine reports on the annual meeting of the Skepsis association, held on March 23rd in Helsinki. The meeting saw a change in leadership, with Veli Toukomies elected as the new chairman, replacing Lauri Gröhn, who is moving to Brussels. Several board members also stepped down, including vice-chairman Hannu Karttunen, who will focus on editing Skeptikko magazine. New faces on the board include Eero Joutsikoski, Anneli Aurejärvi, and Timo Kaitaro.

The article highlights Skepsis's active year, with members giving lectures, participating in media programs, and engaging in public discussions. Skepsis also presented the 'Huuhaa Award' to the Tietomaa science center in Oulu for promoting UFO culture. The association's membership grew, and its annual fee was increased to 100 Finnish marks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko consistently adopts a critical and evidence-based approach to paranormal claims, pseudoscientific theories, and fringe beliefs. The magazine aims to debunk sensationalized accounts by tracing them to their origins, whether fictional or based on misinterpretations of science. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for scientific rigor and critical thinking in evaluating extraordinary claims. The comparison between biodynamic and organic farming also reflects a nuanced view, acknowledging different approaches while emphasizing the need for empirical evidence and understanding of underlying principles. The discussion on electromagnetic pollution underscores the magazine's commitment to examining scientific research and distinguishing between established facts and speculative theories.

This issue of "Skeptikko" (2/94) focuses on various topics related to skepticism, critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscientific claims. The magazine includes announcements, articles, and a comprehensive book review section.

Skeptic Diploma for Members

The lead article, "Skepsis-diplomi jäsenille" (Skeptic diploma for members), addresses a common complaint among new Skepsis ry members: a lack of information after applying for membership. The Skepsis board decided at its meeting on April 6th to send a welcome letter, referred to as a 'Skeptic diploma', to all new members. This letter aims to confirm their acceptance and provide initial information. The board also decided not to send this diploma to existing members, but rather to welcome them retroactively through the magazine. Old members who wish to receive a diploma can request it from the chairman, Veli Toukomies. The diploma itself is a formal letter confirming membership, outlining member benefits such as receiving the "Skeptikko" magazine four times a year and other member mailings. It also highlights the association's numerous public and member events, encouraging participation. The welcome letter is dated June 21, 1994, in Porvoo, and is signed by Veli Toukomies, the chairman. A post-transfer form for the membership fee of 100 Finnish Marks is included.

Alcohol's Powerful Effects - Just Placebo?

The article "Alkoholijuomien voimalliset vaikutukset - pelkkää plaseboa?" (The powerful effects of alcoholic beverages - just placebo?) by Veijo Saano delves into the psychological and physiological effects of alcohol. It questions whether the commonly experienced states of 'huppeli' (tipsiness), 'humala' (drunkenness), 'känni' (being drunk), 'stupor', and 'rigor' are solely due to ethanol or if cultural conditioning and the placebo effect play a significant role. The author notes that while ethyl alcohol has pharmacological effects, the perceived behavioral changes are often learned. Examples from different cultures, such as in Cuba and among Amazonian indigenous groups, suggest that alcohol does not universally lead to aggression or disinhibition. The article posits that the placebo component, often underestimated in pharmacology, is a key factor in how individuals experience intoxication. It suggests that the 'spiritus fortis' (strong spirit) of alcohol might be less potent than commonly believed, and that the adventure and novelty associated with drinking, especially in youth, contribute significantly to the perceived effects. The article also touches upon the efficiency of alcohol absorption, noting that more concentrated alcoholic beverages lead to faster absorption but that the overall effect on behavior at socially common doses might be minimal, with ethanol acting as a non-specific sedative. It also discusses more extreme methods of alcohol consumption for achieving intoxication, such as intravenous administration, and humorously notes the caloric content of ethanol for cremation purposes.

References and Reflections on References

This section lists and briefly discusses the sources cited in the article on alcohol. It includes academic papers and books on drug dependence, drinking patterns, drunken comportment, and the effects of ethanol on human behavior. The author acknowledges that some references were copied from other works, indicating a reliance on existing literature.

Terminology

A glossary defines various terms related to alcohol intoxication, providing approximate blood alcohol concentration (promille) levels for each state: Huppeli (0.5‰), Humala (0.5-1.5‰), Känni (1.5-2.5‰), Stupor (2-3‰), and Rigor (>3.5‰).

Skeptikko Goes on Summer Break

An announcement states that the Skeptikko editorial team is taking a summer break and will return after Midsummer. They plan to use this time to work on a manuscript for a book. The next issue is expected in late summer, around August-September, with a deadline for submissions on August 12th. A summer contact address and phone number are provided for Marketta Ollikainen.

Midsummer Magic

The article "Juhannusyön taikaa" (Midsummer night's magic) explores folklore and superstitions associated with Midsummer. It recounts two traditional tales: one about a girl who performed a love charm by collecting seven types of flowers for under her pillow, only to have a frightening encounter with a hairy creature on a barn roof, resulting in broken legs; and another, "Piika vei rovastin" (The maid took the pastor), where a maid attempts a divination ritual to see her future husband, only to encounter the local pastor, leading to a prophecy of the pastor's wife's death and the maid marrying the pastor.

Skeptikko's Book Shelf

This section, "SKEPTIKON KIRJAHYLLY", presents a curated list of books relevant to skepticism and critical thinking. It updates a previous list published in issue 3/93. The list is divided into Finnish and English-language literature.

Finnish Literature:

• "Viisaita ja veijareita geologian maailmassa" by Nils Edelman (1990).
• "Paholaisen asianajaja, opaskirja skeptikoille" by Heta Häyry, Hannu Karttunen, and Matti Virtanen (1989), noted as out of print.
• "1982 kun planeetat kohtaavat" by Antti Jännes and Heikki Oja (1978), noted as out of print.
• "Katoavatko ufot?" by Kari Kuure, Juhani Kyröläinen, Göte Nyman, and Jukka Piironen (1993).
• "Ufojen arvoitus" by Juhani Kyröläinen and Pekka Teerikorpi (1980), noted as out of print.
• "Sinä paranet nyt" by Matti A. Miettinen (1990).
• "Numerotaidottomuus" by John Allen Paulos (1991), the Finnish translation of "Innumeracy".
• "Parantajat, kuinka puoskarointi muuttui vaihtoehtolääketieteeksi" by Pekka Reinikainen and Marja Rantanen (1992).

Finnish History Literature:

• "Historian väärennöksiä ja väärentämisen historiaa" by Juhani Sarsila (1988).

English Literature:

The magazine highlights that Prometheus Books is a primary publisher of these titles, which may not be translated into Finnish. The publisher's address is provided. The list includes:

• "Science and the Paranormal" edited by George Abell & Barry Singer (1983).
• "Science and Supernature, A Critical Appraisal of Parapsychology" by James Alcock (1990).
• "They Call It Hypnosis" by Robert Baker (1990).
• "Not Necessarily the New Age" edited by Robert Basil (1988).
• "Write Stuff, Evaluations of Graphology --The Study of Handwriting Analysis" edited by Barry & Dale Beyerstein (1992).
• "Dying to Live -- Science and the Near-Death Experience" by Susan Blackmore (1993).
• "Betrayers of the Truth, Fraud and Deceit in Science" by William Broad & Nicholas Wade (1985).
• "The Dictionary of Misinfommation" by Tom Burnam (Publications, 1975).
• "Facts, Fallacies and Frauds in Psychology" by Andrew Colman (1987).
• "Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects" by Edward Condon (1969).
• "Astrology: True or False? A Scientific Investigation" by Roger Culver & Philip Ianna (1988).
• "Enhancing Human Performance - Issues, Theories and Techniques" edited by Daniel Druckman & John Swets (1988).
• "In the Mind's Eye, Enhancing Human Performance" edited by Daniel Druckman & John Swets (1991).
• "The Monkey Business - A Scientist Looks at Creationism" by Niles Eldredge (1982).
• "Paranormal Borderlands of Science" by Kendrick Frazier (ed.) (1981).
• "Science Confronts the Paranormal" edited by Kendrick Frazier (ed.) (1985).
• "Science on Trial --The case for Evolution" by Martin Futuyma (1983).
• "Fads and Fallacies in the Name of Science" by Martin Gardner (1957).
• "Science: Good, Bad and Bogus" by Martin Gardner (1981).
• "New Age - Notes of a Fringe Watcher" by Martin Gardner (1991).
• "How We Know What Isn't So - The Fallibility of Human Reason in Everyday Life" by Thomas Gilovich (1991).
• "Scientists Confront Velikovsky" edited by Donald Goldsmith (ed.) (1977).
• "Fact and Fantasy: The Occult and Pseudosciences" by Morris Goran (1980).
• "The Mismeasure of Man" by Stephen Jay Gould (W.W. Norton, 1981).
• "ESP and Parapsychology - A Critical Re-evaluation" by C.E.M. Hansel (Prometheus Books, 1980).
• "Pseudoscience and the Paranormal-A Critical Examination of the evidence" by Terence Hines (Prometheus Books, 1988).
• "Monkey on a Stick, Murder, Madness, and the Hare Krisnas" by John Hubner & Lindsey Gruson (1990).
• "Astrology Disproved" by Lawrence Jerome (1977).
• "UFOs -The Public Deceived" by Philip J. Klass (Prometheus Books, 1983).
• "UFO Abductions - A dangerous game" by Philip J. Klass (Prometheus Books, 1989).
• "The Psychology of the Psychic" by David Marks & Richard Kammann (Prometheus Books, 1980).
• "Science and Unreason" by Daisie & Michael Radner (1982).
• "FLIM-FLAM, Psychics, ESP, Unicorns and other Delusions" by James Randi (Prometheus Books, 1982).
• "Psychic Investigator" by James Randi (1991).
• "The Mask of Nostradamus" by James Randi (1990).
• "The Truth About Uri Geller" by James Randi (1982).
• "The Psychology of Anomalous Experience" by Graham Reed (Prometheus Books, 1988).
• "A Physicists Guide to Skepticism" by Milton Rothman (Prometheus Books, 1988).
• "Fire in the Brain, Clinical Tales of Hallucination" by Ronald Siegel (1992).
• "Creativity, Genius and other Myths" by Robert Weisberg (1986).

Upcoming Events

Euroskeptics Meet in Belgium

The annual Euroskeptics meeting will be held in Ostende, Belgium, from September 23-25. The theme is 'science, pseudoscience, and the environment', covering topics like geobiology and 'maasäteily' (earth radiation). Working groups will discuss cosmic influences (Gauquelin's case), the current state of parapsychology, alternative therapies, exposing fraudsters, and teaching science and pseudoscience. The contact person in Belgium is Tim Trachet.

CSICOP Conference During Midsummer Week

For those traveling to the USA during Midsummer, the Finnish organization's partner, CSICOP, is organizing a conference in Seattle from June 23-26 at the Doubletree Suites Hotel. The conference theme is the psychology of belief, with speakers including Carl Sagan, Paul Kurtz, and Ray Hyman. Contact information for Mary Rose Hays at CSICOP is provided.

Skeptikko's Summer Trip to Oulu!

Skeptikko is planning a summer trip to Oulu, possibly coinciding with the science days held there from September 2-5, 1994. The trip would focus on a day dedicated to science and pseudoscience. The Free Thinkers Association will also hold its summer days in Oulu during the same period, with a session on the prevalence of hoaxes and unscientific practices in society. Interested individuals should contact Anneli Aurejärvi for trip details.

English Summary

This section provides brief summaries of articles in English:

• Nonsense on television (editorial by Ilkka Niiniluoto): The author recounts witnessing astrological predictions on evening news programs in Moscow and notes similar trends in Finnish television, where supernatural phenomena are often presented uncritically.
• The new skepticism (by Paul Kurtz): Professor Paul Kurtz argues that skepticism is beneficial in moderation but can lead to excessive doubt if taken too far. This article is a translation from The Skeptical Inquirer.
• Points of view to the explained and unexplained (by Veli Toukomies): This piece discusses how religious and social views are interconnected with other forms of thinking and actions, including skepticism.
• Little information on alternative medicine (by Marketta Ollikainen): It is estimated that one-third of Finns use alternative therapies annually, yet reliable information on their availability and use is scarce. Physicians are often unaware of these therapies, and patients rarely disclose their use.
• Reincarnation doctrine is in fashion (by Kalevi Kuitunen): The belief in reincarnation is common in New Age movements. While the concept of soul transmigration has ancient roots, its widespread popularity in its current form, influenced by theosophy, is a phenomenon of the current century.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Skeptikko" consistently promotes critical thinking and a scientific approach to understanding phenomena. It actively debunks pseudoscientific claims, analyzes the psychological underpinnings of belief (such as the placebo effect), and provides resources for those interested in skepticism, including book lists and information on relevant events and organizations. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and against uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims, whether related to the paranormal, alternative medicine, or even the perceived effects of common substances like alcohol. The magazine also engages with cultural phenomena, such as folklore and superstitions, examining them through a skeptical lens.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 2/94
Publisher: Skepsis
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
Date: Undetermined

This issue of Skeptikko, published by the Finnish skeptical organization Skepsis, primarily focuses on encouraging new memberships and outlining the organization's structure and mission. The magazine is dated 2/94, suggesting it is the second issue of 1994.

Membership Drive and Application

The prominent cover headline, "LIITY SKEPSIKSEN JÄSENEKSI!" (Join Skepsis!), signals the main theme of this issue. A detailed membership application form is provided, requesting personal information such as name, address, phone number, profession, and employer. It also asks about the applicant's experience with topics related to Skepsis's field, any relevant publications, membership in other scientific societies, and special interests. Applicants are required to sign a declaration stating they accept the organization's purpose and principles.

The membership fee is stated as 100 Finnish Marks (mk) per year, with a reduced rate of 30 mk for individuals under 20 years old. This fee includes a subscription to the Skeptikko magazine. Payment is to be made to the organization's bank account, PSP 6371 513.

For those interested in subscribing to Skeptikko magazine without becoming a full member, a separate option is presented. The subscription fee is the same as the membership fee (100 mk/year). Subscribers are instructed to use the same application form but to clearly indicate that they do not wish to join as a member.

Skepsis Organization: Purpose and Principles

Page 2 delves into the background and objectives of Skepsis. Founded in 1987, Skepsis is described as a Finnish skeptical organization whose operating principles are similar to those of the American CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal). While operating independently, Skepsis collaborates with CSICOP and other similar organizations.

The organization's purpose, as stated in its statutes, is multifaceted:

• To promote objective and unbiased scientific research into claims of paranormal phenomena, without taking a stance on their validity beforehand.
• To maintain a network of individuals interested in such research and to foster connections with similar communities domestically and internationally.
• To publish articles and books that investigate claims of paranormal phenomena, 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.

Skepsis explicitly states its commitment to being politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated.

The organization's board has the authority to approve applications from individuals and legally recognized entities who accept the stated principles.

Skepsis Board and Scientific Advisory Board

Page 3 lists the current leadership and advisory bodies of Skepsis:

• Skepsis ry Board:
• Veli Toukomies (Chairman)
• Timo Kaitaro (Vice Chairman)
• Anneli Aurejärvi (Secretary)
• Eero Joutsikoski
• Ilpo V. Salmi

• Skepsis Scientific Advisory Board:
• This extensive list includes numerous academics and researchers, indicating a strong emphasis on scientific rigor. Notable members include:
• Professors: Nils Edelman, Kari Enqvist, Pertti Hemánus, S. Albert Kivinen, Kirsti Lagerspetz, Raimo Lehti, Anto Leikola, Nils Mustelin, Ilkka Niiniluoto, Jeja Pekka Roos, Heikki Räisänen, Anssi Saura, Raimo Tuomela, Yrjö Vasari, Johan von Wright.
• Other titles include: Apulaisprofessori (Associate Professor), Amanuenssi (Curator/Assistant), Dosentti (Docent), LKT (Licentiate of Medicine), VTK (Master of Social Sciences).

Anneli Aurejärvi, the secretary, is listed again with her contact details for membership and subscription inquiries. The phone number provided is 90 - 8252 285.

Skepsis is also a member organization of the Federation of Finnish Learned Societies (Tieteellisten seurain valtuuskunta).

Cartoon: "Astrology Repair"

Page 4 features a cartoon by Rob Pudim titled "OUT THERE". The cartoon depicts a scene at an "ASTROLOGY REPAIR" shop. A mechanic is working on a truck, and a sign inside the shop reads: "WHEN SATURN IS IN ARIES, THE PROBLEM IS IN THE THROTTLE... YOU SEE THE AIR-SIGN". This is a satirical commentary on astrological predictions and their perceived lack of scientific basis, contrasting it with practical mechanical issues. The cartoon also includes a small logo for "Skeptical Inquirer" magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism, the scientific investigation of paranormal claims, and the promotion of the Skepsis organization. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and scientific methodology, as exemplified by the organization's mission and the inclusion of the "Astrology Repair" cartoon. The magazine actively seeks to recruit members and subscribers who share these values, positioning itself as a platform for disseminating information and fostering a community of critical thinkers in Finland.