1994-4-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

This issue of Skeptikko, identified as Numero 23 and dated 4/94, is published by Skepsis ry and features a cover headline focusing on the 'Huuhaa-palkinto' (Nonsense Award) for uncritical information dissemination, alongside articles on Darwin, evolution, and alternative medicine.

Articles

Darwin, Fossils, and the Gruesome, Hairy Ancestor (Darwin, fossiilit ja kaamea, karvainen kantamuoto)

Authored by Mikael Fortelius, this article delves into the origins of evolutionary theory. It questions Darwin's avoidance of the word 'evolution' and explores the purpose of his 1839 voyage on the HMS Beagle. Fortelius posits that the 'Darwinism' worldview is often tied to Darwin's persona. The article discusses evolution from a paleontologist's perspective, touching on fossils and the concept of 'deep time', before addressing the controversial idea of human descent from apes.

Darwin's Round-the-World Voyage: The article details Darwin's journey on the HMS Beagle, emphasizing his role as a companion to Captain Fitzroy, who was struggling with isolation and the suicide of his predecessor. Darwin's social background and desire to see the world made him a suitable companion. While the ship's naturalist was initially Robert McCormick, Darwin eventually took over the role officially. Fortelius suggests Darwin's somewhat ambiguous position may have influenced his thinking.

The Slow Publication of Ideas: Despite developing key ideas about evolution by natural selection during the Beagle voyage, Darwin waited nearly twenty years to publish. Fortelius speculates this delay was due to the potentially controversial nature of his materialist explanations, particularly concerning human origins, and a desire to avoid public outcry. He notes that the idea of species transmutation was not controversial, but the term 'evolution' itself, implying a predetermined path, clashed with Darwin's model of change driven by immediate success.

Natural Selection Drives Evolution: The article explains the core concept of natural selection: individuals within a population vary, and these variations are heritable. Success, measured by offspring, depends on these variations. Thus, well-adapted individuals thrive, increasing their traits in the population at the expense of others. This process drives evolution. Fortelius highlights that natural selection is considered the primary driver of adaptation, though not the sole factor in evolution.

The Red Queen Hypothesis: Introduced by Leigh Van Valen, this hypothesis likens evolution to a perpetual race where species must constantly adapt to survive, akin to the Red Queen in Lewis Carroll's 'Through the Looking-Glass'. The competition is for resources like solar energy, and staying in place requires continuous change.

Paleontology and Deep Time: The article contrasts the ecological timescale with the vastness of paleontological time ('deep time'). It notes that understanding processes spanning millions of years is challenging with short-term observations. The lack of fossil evidence in Darwin's time meant that the quantitative study of macroevolution only gained momentum in the 1970s, bolstered by evidence of asteroid impacts in 1981. Despite abundant fossil records, paleontologists initially clung to Darwin's view of incomplete fossil evidence. The impact of mass extinctions, such as the one that wiped out the dinosaurs 65 million years ago, is discussed as a significant factor in evolutionary history.

European Mammal History: The article traces the history of mammals in Europe, starting with Africa's collision with Eurasia about twenty million years ago, leading to mountain formation and the isolation of the Mediterranean Sea. It describes the fragmentation of Europe and the subsequent migration of mammals between Africa and Eurasia. A significant shift occurred around ten million years ago, marked by a decline in species diversity in Western and Central Europe, coinciding with a global cooling trend. Eastern Europe and Western Asia, however, saw an increase in species diversity until a climate catastrophe around five million years ago. The article suggests that the changes in Western Europe primarily affected forest-dwelling fauna, while the East had already lost much of its forest cover.

The 'Hairy Ancestor' Controversy: The article touches upon the historical controversy surrounding Darwin's theory of human descent from apes, referencing the famous debate between Bishop Samuel Wilberforce and Thomas Henry Huxley. It notes that resistance to the idea of human evolution, particularly the connection to apes, persists among some, often rooted in a sense of pride or a desire to distance humanity from other animals.

New Fossil Discoveries: Recent fossil finds from Ethiopia, including *Australopithecus ramidus*, are presented as important in filling the evolutionary gap between humans and chimpanzees. Professor Bernard Wood is cited for his satisfaction with these findings, which align with predictions about the common ancestor. The article cautions against overstating the significance of individual fossil finds, noting that their importance is often amplified by competition for funding and publicity. The true challenges in evolutionary theory lie in understanding the complex interactions between living and non-living elements and the interplay of different scales and perspectives.

Huuhaa-palkinto for YLE-TV (Huuhaa-palkinto YLE-TV:lle)

This section details Skepsis ry's decision to award the Huuhaa-palkinto to YLE-TV for its uncritical presentation of pseudoscientific claims in its programming. The article raises questions about the role of public broadcasting in providing accurate information versus presenting pseudoscience as equally valid. It questions whether journalism can be truly objective when confronting superstition and whether public broadcasting should prioritize entertainment over critical examination of complex issues. The article acknowledges the valuable cultural contributions of past recipients but emphasizes the need for high standards, especially for public institutions. It notes that in a time of societal change, people seek new information, and public broadcasting plays a crucial role in shaping worldviews. While acknowledging the increase in quality science programming and the efforts of programs like 'Kuningaskuluttaja' and 'Tänä iltana terveydestä', the article criticizes YLE-TV for sometimes presenting unverified claims without sufficient critical context.

Other Sections

• Ennustaminen on vaikeaa (Prediction is Difficult): A short piece on the difficulty of prediction.
• SISÄLTÖ (Contents): A table of contents listing articles and authors.
• Kirjat (Books): A section for book reviews.
• Lyhyesti (Briefly): Short news items.
• Tulevia tapahtumia (Upcoming Events): Information on future events.
• Skepsiksen haaste (Skepsis Challenge): An offer of 10,000 Finnish Marks to anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical and scientific approach to understanding the world. It actively critiques pseudoscience, uncritical media reporting, and the spread of misinformation. The editorial stance champions critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and the scientific method. There is a clear emphasis on debunking paranormal claims and promoting a rational worldview, as evidenced by the 'Huuhaa-palkinto' and the challenge to produce paranormal phenomena. The articles on evolution and paleontology reflect a commitment to scientific understanding of natural history, while the critique of media highlights concerns about journalistic responsibility in presenting complex and controversial topics.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 4/94
Date: April 1994

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish skeptical magazine, focuses on the prevalence of pseudoscience, media criticism, and the perception of science among youth.

Editorial Stance and Media Criticism

The editorial, written by Marketta Ollikainen, criticizes the Finnish public broadcaster TV 1 for its program 'Usko tai älä' (Believe it or not), which is accused of uncritically presenting pseudoscientific and mystical beliefs alongside scientific facts. Ollikainen argues that this approach equates mysticism with science, contributing to 'scientific superstition'. She emphasizes the journalistic responsibility to convey accurate information and highlights the public's right to know the basis of these beliefs. The magazine awarded TV 1 the 'Huuhaa-palkinto' (Hooey Award) for its role in promoting uncritical acceptance of paranormal phenomena.

Youth Beliefs and Science Education

Tapio Keranto's article, "Science, Pseudoscience, and Religion in Education," explores how young people in Finland perceive science and their beliefs in pseudoscientific and religious topics. A study conducted in Hämeenlinna and Oulu among 9th graders and first and second-year high school students revealed that while most students are critical of paranormal claims like UFOs, telepathy, and astrology, a notable percentage still hold these beliefs. The study found that girls and students in humanities programs were generally more open to pseudoscientific and religious narratives than boys and those in science-oriented programs. The article also touches upon Rudolf Steiner's anthroposophy as an example of pseudoscience, criticizing its lack of empirical evidence and reliance on subjective 'spiritual observation'. Karl Popper's philosophy of science, emphasizing critical testing and falsifiability, is contrasted with pseudoscientific approaches.

Keranto's research also investigated students' general knowledge of science, finding it to be reasonably good, though understanding of the scientific method varied. The study identified 'knowledge of science,' 'religious belief,' and 'belief in the paranormal' as distinct factors influencing students' views. The author suggests that educational institutions should actively teach about the differences between science, pseudoscience, and religion to foster critical thinking. A pilot science course for high school students in Oulu, starting in December 1994, aims to introduce students to the principles of scientific inquiry and critical evaluation.

Skeptical Encounters at the 'Spirit and Knowledge Fair'

Robert Brotherus reports on his experiences at the annual 'Hengen ja tiedon messut' (Spirit and Knowledge Fair), a major event for paranormal and alternative belief enthusiasts. He notes the large attendance and the wide variety of pseudoscientific offerings, including astrology, ufology, crystal therapy, homeopathy, and divination. Brotherus describes his interactions with vendors, including purchasing an agate stone and being told about its supposed magical properties. He also recounts his experience with aura photography, noting the 'Polaroid' branding on the equipment and the unscientific explanation of the aura as an electromagnetic field composed of protons. He also describes attending an 'aura cleansing' session, highlighting the ritualistic atmosphere and the use of new-age music and scents.

Brotherus also reviews 'Varpu 2000,' a dowsing device, and 'Tekno-akupunktio,' a laser-based acupuncture system. He finds the dowsing device's results to be subjective and the laser acupuncture to be a pseudoscientific application based on traditional Chinese medicine principles. He concludes by discussing the challenges faced by skeptics at such fairs, including the difficulty of presenting skepticism in an engaging way and the need for patience and objectivity when confronting believers.

Fractals and Micro-world Wonders

Another section, 'Fraktaaleja ja mikromaailman ihmeitä' (Fractals and Micro-world Wonders), discusses the skeptical booth's display at the fair. The team chose to showcase scientific concepts like microscopes for viewing the micro-world and fractal images from mathematics and physics as a counterpoint to the pseudoscientific attractions. The goal was to present visually interesting and scientifically grounded exhibits that align with a skeptical worldview.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, the media's role in disseminating such information, and the importance of scientific literacy and critical thinking, particularly among young people. The magazine consistently advocates for evidence-based reasoning and a scientific approach to understanding the world, contrasting it with uncritical belief in paranormal phenomena and mystical explanations. The editorial stance is clearly pro-science and anti-pseudoscience, with a focus on educating the public and challenging unverified claims, especially those presented through media channels.

This issue of Skeptikko, number 4/94, focuses on critical examinations of various topics, including alternative medicine, the SETI project, and the nature of scientific inquiry. The magazine's stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based science and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims.

Cover Story: Experiences and Discussions

The cover story, titled "Experiences and Discussions," highlights the interactions at a Skepsis booth, likely at a fair or exhibition. The primary benefit of these stalls was the opportunity to engage in discussions with people about various philosophical questions, using fractals as a starting point for conversations. The article notes that many visitors were interested in fractals, with some asking if they represented auras. The discussions often involved individuals who believed in paranormal phenomena, such as psychics, alien visitations, and Uri Geller's alleged abilities. The author emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between a person's subjective experience and the interpretation of that experience, suggesting that skeptics should not dismiss mystical experiences but rather question the reliability of their interpretation.

A particular anecdote recounts a conversation with an elderly woman who claimed to be able to bend spoons by touching them and asked if the author considered her a fraud. The author found himself in a difficult position, unable to deny her belief while personally not believing in such abilities. When asked about the physical basis for spoon bending, the woman cited an "electromagnetic field" emanating from her hands. The author refutes this, explaining that while electromagnetic waves can cause minor effects, they cannot bend spoons, attributing it instead to metal fatigue.

Alternative Medicine: Under Scrutiny

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a critical analysis of alternative medicine, particularly its push for recognition and funding within the healthcare system. The article "Vaihtoehtolääkintä sairausvakuutuksen piiriin?" (Alternative Medicine within the Scope of Health Insurance?) by Veijo Saano argues that alternative medicine practitioners seek the same status as conventional medical professionals without the same rigorous training and qualification requirements. The author points out that the Finnish Medicines Act has already included herbal remedies and anthroposophic and homeopathic preparations as 'medicines,' even without proof of therapeutic efficacy.

The article outlines several key arguments against the uncritical acceptance of alternative medicine:

1. Focus on Effective Treatments: Conventional medicine aims to focus on treatments proven to be effective. The concept of 'evidence-based medicine' requires treatments to be supported by scientific evidence. Alternative medicine, however, often resists scientific testing.
2. Benefit to the Patient: Treatments should demonstrably benefit the patient, not just be based on subjective experience or tradition. The efficacy must be proven through studies that minimize bias and chance.
3. Proof of Efficacy for Each Indication: Each treatment method should prove its effectiveness for specific conditions, rather than being presented as a universal cure. Unlike conventional medicine, which evaluates treatments individually, alternative medicine is often presented as a cohesive whole.
4. Safety: Alternative medicines often bypass the stringent safety testing required for conventional drugs. Claims of safety based on being 'natural' are questioned, as nature contains many dangerous substances. The burden of proof for safety should lie with the provider, not the consumer.
5. Quality Control: The quality and standardization of alternative therapies are difficult to ensure, as practitioners may have varying interpretations and methods. This lack of standardization makes it impossible to guarantee consistent quality.
6. Costs: While often claimed to be cheaper, the integration of unproven alternative therapies into public healthcare could increase overall costs without providing proven benefits. The article cites Germany as an example where the widespread acceptance of alternative medicines has led to higher drug expenditures.

The author criticizes the demand for 'freedom of choice' in healthcare, arguing that it should prioritize patient well-being over practitioner convenience or commercial interests. The example of the United States is used to illustrate how patient demand and a commercialized healthcare system can lead to unnecessary surgeries and complications.

The SETI Project

The book review section discusses "SETI - searching for alien intelligence" edited by Heikki Oja. The book, published by Ursa, is presented as a more refined and comprehensive collection of materials from a SETI seminar compared to a previous publication. The book is divided into three parts: astronomy, the origin of life, and the possibility of interstellar communication. The astronomy section covers the origin of the universe, stellar evolution, and methods for detecting exoplanets. The origin of life section explores the chemical requirements for life and the possibility of its existence elsewhere in the universe, touching upon Fred Hoyle's panspermia theory. The final section focuses on the actual SETI research, including the Serendip project, which analyzes radio telescope data for signs of artificial signals. The review notes that a major challenge in SETI is distinguishing artificial signals from natural cosmic radio noise, given our limited understanding of potential alien communication methods.

Other Sections

Next Issue

The magazine announces that the next issue of Skeptikko will be published in February, with material submissions due by January 31st.

Book Reviews

Besides the SETI book, other books are reviewed, including one on the history of alternative medicine in Finland and its cost implications, and another on the challenges of regulating such practices. The review of the SETI book highlights the scientific aspects of searching for extraterrestrial intelligence and the challenges involved.

Skeptikko Organization Updates

This section provides updates on the Skepsis organization, including new contact information (phone number and postal address) and details about the formation of the European Council of Skeptical Organizations (ECSO). ECSO aims to inform the public about unsubstantiated claims and potentially harmful practices, promote scientific testing, and support evidence-based methods in healthcare.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical evaluation of claims, the importance of scientific evidence, and skepticism towards pseudoscience and unproven therapies. The editorial stance is strongly in favor of scientific rigor, transparency, and consumer protection in healthcare. The magazine advocates for evidence-based medicine and expresses concern over the growing influence and potential costs of alternative medicine without adequate scientific validation. The SETI project is presented as a scientifically grounded endeavor, distinct from speculative claims about extraterrestrial life.

This issue of Skeptikko, number 4/94, published by Skepsis, focuses on upcoming events and seminars related to skepticism and paranormal phenomena in Finland. The cover headline is 'Tulevia tapahtumia' (Upcoming Events).

Upcoming Events and Seminars

Skepsis Lectures: Skepsis is organizing five public lectures in Helsinki at Porthania (Kallituskatu 11-13) during Spring 1995. These events will take place on February 15, March 15, April 12, May 17, and June 14, from 18:00 to 20:00. While the exact themes are open, planned topics include Hifi equipment, alternative medicine, and catastrophe theories. More details will be announced in future issues of Skeptikko and other media.

Tieteen päivät '95 (Science Days '95): This event will be held in Helsinki from January 11-13, 1995, at the University of Helsinki's Porthania. It includes a broad lecture series titled 'The forefront of research,' along with numerous exhibitions and other activities. The event is organized by the Delegation of Finnish Academies of Science and Letters, the Federation of Finnish Learned Societies, and the Finnish Cultural Foundation. For more information, contact the event's secretary, VTM Jan Rydman.

Ratio ja magia (Ratio and Magic) Seminar: A seminar on 'Ratio and magic' will be held on January 28, 1995, at the Virkailijain kansalaisopisto in Helsinki (Töölöntullinkatu 8). The seminar will explore whether to tackle the world through science or magic. Sessions include 'What is ganzfeld?' (9-11 AM) and 'What moves in time? Uusnoituus and shamanism as phenomena of modern culture' (2-4 PM), with speakers Outi Mietala and Markku Salmi. Contact Ilpo V. Salmi for details.

Parapsychological Research: The seminar will also cover ongoing parapsychological research, with presentations by Timo Kaitaro and Birger Wasenius. A session from 12-2 PM will discuss whether prediction can heal or if it heals by predicting, exploring astrology and other beliefs, with speakers Wuokko Coco and Ilpo V. Salmi.

Avaruuden nomadit (Nomads of Space) Seminar: The ethnology department of the University of Jyväskylä and its student organization are hosting a seminar on UFOs on February 16-17, 1995. Speakers will include Timo K. Hautala, Päivikki Suojanen, Tapani Kuningas, Kari Pylkkänen, Olavi Räsänen, Juhann af Grann, and Hannu Karttunen. The seminar will conclude with a discussion on humanoids, with a hopeful note about the attendance of a 'hardened humanoid.' Contact Olavi Räsänen for more information.

Joining Skepsis

Membership Application: The magazine includes a membership application form for Skepsis. To join, send the completed form to Anneli Aurejärvi, Secretary of Skepsis, at Sireenitie 10b A2, 01390 Vantaa. The annual membership fee is 100 Finnish Marks (mk), or 30 mk for those under 20. This fee includes a subscription to Skeptikko magazine. Membership fees can be paid to the organization's account: PSP 800011-465302.

Skeptikko Magazine Subscription: It is also possible to subscribe to Skeptikko magazine without becoming a member. The subscription fee is the same, 100 mk per year. Subscribers should use the provided form and indicate they do not wish to join the organization.

Back Issues: Information is provided for ordering back issues of Skeptikko magazine from The Skeptical Inquirer in Buffalo, NY, USA. A 15% discount is available for orders of $100 or more.

About Skepsis

Skepsis is a Finnish skeptical organization founded in 1987, operating similarly to the US-based CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) but independently, though in cooperation with CSICOP and other similar organizations.

Purpose and Principles: Skepsis's stated purpose is to promote objective and unbiased scientific research into paranormal phenomena without prior judgment. It aims to maintain a network of interested individuals, publish research-oriented articles and bibliographies, and organize educational events and conferences. The organization is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. Membership is open to individuals and organizations who accept its principles.

Board and Scientific Advisory Board: The issue lists the members of Skepsis ry's board and its scientific advisory board, featuring various professors and professionals in relevant fields.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly promotes scientific skepticism and critical inquiry into paranormal claims. The focus on upcoming events like seminars and lectures organized by Skepsis and other related organizations highlights the magazine's commitment to disseminating information and fostering discussion within the skeptical community. The detailed information on joining Skepsis and subscribing to its magazine indicates an effort to grow its readership and membership base. The overall stance is one of encouraging rigorous investigation and evidence-based understanding of phenomena, as exemplified by the organization's principles and the content of the featured events.