1995-1-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

This issue of Skeptikko (1/95, Volume 24, dated March 6, 1995) is primarily focused on examining the beliefs of Finnish Members of Parliament (MPs) in paranormal and pseudoscientific phenomena, alongside discussions on UFOs, science communication, and cultural topics.

Key Articles and Themes

Parliamentary Beliefs in the Paranormal

The central piece of the issue is an article titled "Kansanedustajien huuhaa-uskomukset puntariin" (Members of Parliament's Pseudoscience Beliefs Weighed) by Marketta Ollikainen. This article presents the results of a survey sent to Finnish MPs, asking them to respond to 24 statements concerning various paranormal beliefs, such as UFOs, astrology, telepathy, reincarnation, and alternative therapies. The survey, which received 49 responses, aimed to understand the extent to which MPs' decisions might be influenced by such beliefs.

The findings indicate that while a significant portion of MPs hold some beliefs in these areas, they are generally more critical than the general population. The Centre Party MPs showed a higher tendency towards belief in paranormal phenomena, while the Left Alliance and Social Democrats were more skeptical. The article highlights inconsistencies in some MPs' beliefs, suggesting that decisions might be based more on assumptions than on knowledge. It also touches upon the debate surrounding alternative therapies and their potential inclusion in health insurance, noting that while many MPs acknowledged the efficacy of alternative treatments, their support for insurance coverage varied.

UFOs and Paranormal Phenomena

Juhani Kyröläinen's article, "Ufot järjestykseen" (UFOs in Order), critically examines the Juhan af Grann TV series on UFOs and paranormal phenomena. Kyröläinen discusses the common themes in UFO discourse, including alleged government cover-ups and secret agreements with aliens. The article references the Roswell incident of 1947 as a persistent topic in UFO lore and mentions the controversial Majestic-12 documents. It also presents a counter-argument suggesting that some UFO narratives might be disinformation campaigns by intelligence agencies.

Another piece, "Vanhat tarinat toistuvat" (Old Stories Repeat), also touches upon UFO phenomena, referencing the Roswell incident and the ongoing discussions about it, particularly on the internet. It mentions the work of UFO researcher Stanton Friedman and critiques the handling of evidence by figures like Juhan af Grann.

Science Communication and Skepticism

An editorial piece, "Toimitukselta" (From the Editors), discusses the prevalence of 'pseudoscience' and the tendency for people to hold contradictory beliefs. It highlights the need for better science education, even for MPs, and references psychologist Susan Blackmore's research on out-of-body experiences as an example of how even unusual phenomena can be studied scientifically. The editorial also notes a surge in 'huuhaa' (pseudoscience) books and media coverage of mystical topics in Finland.

"Tieteen tiedottamisen ongelmista" (Problems in Communicating Science) by Jukka-Pekka Puro addresses the challenges of effectively conveying scientific information to the public. The magazine's overall stance, as reflected in its name 'Skeptikko' (Skeptic), is to promote critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning against pseudoscience.

Cultural and Other Topics

Kimmo Pietiläinen contributes an article titled "Kalevalan synty" (The Birth of Kalevala), revisiting a radio essay from two decades prior that sparked debate about the origins of the Finnish national epic. The article invites readers to form their own conclusions.

Additionally, the issue includes a section "Lyhyesti" (Briefly), "Kirjat" (Books), and "Tulevia tapahtumia" (Upcoming Events), along with an "English summary" of the issue's content.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, a strong emphasis is placed on skepticism towards paranormal claims and pseudoscientific theories. The magazine advocates for critical evaluation of evidence and for distinguishing between scientific knowledge and unfounded beliefs. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rationalism and evidence-based understanding, encouraging both the public and policymakers to rely on verifiable facts rather than speculation or 'huuhaa'. The issue also implicitly critiques the media's role in disseminating unsubstantiated claims.

Notable Quotes

"Luulo ei ole tiedon väärti" (Assumption is not worth knowledge) - a Finnish proverb cited in the editorial.

"Heidän eleissään on todellisuuden paino." (In their gestures lies the weight of reality.) - Timo Kaitaro, suggesting that real-world interactions and experiences hold more weight than abstract beliefs.

FAQ

• What is the main focus of the Skeptikko 1/95 issue? The main focus is a survey on the beliefs of Finnish Members of Parliament in paranormal phenomena and alternative therapies, alongside articles on UFOs, science communication, and the origins of Kalevala.

• Did the survey reveal any significant differences in beliefs among Finnish MPs? The survey indicated that while differences existed, MPs from the Centre Party showed a higher tendency towards belief in paranormal phenomena compared to those from the Left Alliance or Social Democrats, who were generally more critical.

• What is the magazine's stance on alternative therapies? Skeptikko generally approaches alternative therapies with skepticism, questioning their efficacy and the basis of their claims, while acknowledging that some MPs support their inclusion in health insurance.

• What is discussed regarding UFOs in this issue? The issue discusses the Juhan af Grann TV series on UFOs and paranormal phenomena, the Roswell incident, and alleged government agreements with extraterrestrials, while also presenting critical viewpoints.

• What is the overall editorial stance of Skeptikko? The magazine promotes skepticism, critical thinking, and evidence-based reasoning, advocating for a clear distinction between scientific knowledge and pseudoscience.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 1/95, focuses on UFO phenomena, alien abductions, and the challenges of science communication. It features articles that critically examine claims, explore psychological explanations, and discuss the role of media in presenting scientific and pseudoscientific information.

UFOs and Cosmonaut Accounts

The issue begins by referencing Dr. Azaza's claim that there are thousands of Russian UFO documents, with more in America, and that governments may be withholding this information for technological gain. It highlights the distinction between the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) and UFO sightings, noting that the public often conflates the two.

A significant account is presented from Russian cosmonaut Pavel Popovitš, who reported seeing a triangular object during a flight from Washington to Moscow. He described it as a bright white, triangular object moving at approximately 1500 km/h, passing their aircraft at a distance of about a kilometer and an altitude of 1500 meters. While he stated it was a clear UFO sighting, he also expressed skepticism about other cosmonauts' similar claims, noting that they were not confirmed in his discussions with them.

The article questions the certainty of such observations, pointing out that without knowing the object's true size, its speed, altitude, and distance are difficult to ascertain accurately. It draws a parallel to pilots mistaking distant objects for nearby ones or even making evasive maneuvers for what turn out to be harmless phenomena.

Alien Abduction Experiences and Psychological Explanations

Another section addresses the claims of alien abductions, noting that many UFOlogists acknowledge that simple sightings of lights can often be explained. However, the article questions the evidence for contactee accounts and abductions. It mentions Rauni-Leena Luukanen-Kilde's experience in Geneva as an example of an abduction claim.

The magazine discusses hypnosis as a tool used to elicit abduction narratives, but also highlights criticisms that information obtained through hypnosis may not be reliable and that abduction stories could be fantasies of the subconscious. It references a claim that 5,500 people are abducted annually by UFOs, with a similar figure of 4 million in America, based on surveys.

Professor Susan Blackmore of the University of Bristol is featured for her documentary on alien abductions. Blackmore investigated abduction claims and found that while the experiencers seemed convinced and their accounts were similar, she believed natural explanations were possible. She explored the idea that these experiences might be related to sleep paralysis, a state where individuals wake up during REM sleep and feel paralyzed, which can be a frightening experience affecting about 20% of the population. Blackmore suggests that abduction narratives could be modern interpretations of ancient myths about demons or spirits that torment sleepers.

Neuroscience researcher Michael Persinger's work is also mentioned. Persinger hypothesized that temporal lobe activity, possibly triggered by external stimuli like magnetic fields, could be responsible for experiences of 'levitation' or 'out-of-body' sensations. His research indicated a connection between seismic events and UFO claims, with unusual experiences peaking before earthquakes, possibly due to magnetic field changes. Blackmore underwent an experiment in Persinger's lab, involving artificial magnetic field stimulation, where she reported sensations of levitation, being pulled upwards, and intense emotions of anger and fear, which she understood to be induced by the magnetic fields.

Blackmore posits that if such experiences occur in a person's own bedroom at night, they are likely to seek explanations, and if presented with the idea of alien visitors, they might accept it to avoid believing they are going insane.

Science Communication and Media Criticism

An article by Jukka-Pekka Puro examines the challenges of communicating science to the public. It discusses two main aspects: how researchers communicate with society and the criteria the media uses for reporting on science. Puro emphasizes that scientists should present their findings in a way that is understandable and relevant to the public, moving beyond purely factual statements to address broader societal questions.

The article notes that media often expects scientists to provide answers to complex issues, not just data. It suggests that while technical information is easier to communicate, topics like the existence of an afterlife are more challenging. The author argues that if scientific communities do not address these questions, the media will seek answers elsewhere, potentially from less credible sources.

It is suggested that science needs to be 'marketed' effectively, using rhetorical tools and adapting its language to be accessible to the general audience. The goal is not to speculate but to present the scientific worldview in a compelling manner. The article criticizes the media's tendency to treat science and pseudoscience as equally valid, leading to public confusion. It highlights George Gerbner's research on cultivation analysis, which shows that TV viewers often struggle to distinguish between fictional portrayals and scientific reality.

The piece advocates for 'media criticism of science,' which involves applying the principles of scientific critique to media reporting. This includes analyzing the rhetorical strategies and metaphors used in pseudoscientific claims to better understand their nature and influence.

Historical Media Coverage of Paranormal Topics

Jari Koponen's article looks back at how pseudoscientific topics were covered in Finnish media in the past. It notes that even in the late 19th century, mediums and paranormal phenomena were of interest to newspapers. Early coverage focused on hypnosis and spiritualism, with articles often aiming for public education and information dissemination.

The article cites an 1892 series in Päivälehti on telepathy, which discussed scientific experiments of the time. It also mentions a two-part article on ghosts signed by 'S.' in the same newspaper. The author observes that as Finnish newspapers and magazines diversified in the 1910s and 1920s, a greater emphasis was placed on entertainment and sensationalism, leading to a decline in the balanced and objective reporting seen in earlier publications.

The monthly magazine 'Maailma' (1918-1929) is presented as an example of a popular general-interest publication that also featured articles by A. Conan Doyle on topics like the 'Uncharted Coast' and survival. Doyle's strong advocacy for spiritualism was leveraged by the magazine. Later, the magazine 'Apu' (starting in 1933) began including horoscopes, initially daily and later weekly, and also incorporated numerology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko revolve around critical examination of paranormal claims, particularly UFOs and alien abductions. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, seeking scientific explanations and highlighting the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to belief in such phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of clear science communication and media literacy, urging for a distinction between science and pseudoscience. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, challenging unsubstantiated claims and promoting critical thinking.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 1/95
Date: 1995
Publisher: Skeptikko
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko delves into the history and sociology of pseudoscientific beliefs in Finland, with a particular focus on the 1930s and a novel interpretation of the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala.

Pseudoscientific Content in 1930s Finnish Magazines

The article begins by detailing the significant presence of pseudoscientific content in Finnish magazines during the 1930s. It highlights 'Apu' magazine's role in popularizing astrology, with astrologer Dag Hemdal being a key figure. Hemdal's horoscopes were so popular that the magazine had to publish his contact information. 'Apu' claimed Hemdal's predictions were remarkably accurate, with one instance citing 91% accuracy for his predictions in 'Apu'. The magazine also featured a 52-part series titled 'Secrets of the Spirit World', covering topics like hypnotism, telepathy, mediums, ghosts, clairvoyance, astral projection, and various alleged paranormal phenomena.

Another magazine, 'Urpu', also published pseudoscientific material, though its run was shorter. The article notes that 'Apu' was a popular magazine, suggesting its content had a considerable influence on public attitudes. While the post-war period saw a decline in interest in pseudoscience, the article posits that these early writings laid the groundwork for the later spread of 'fringe sciences' in Finland.

The Kalevala as an Alien Encounter Narrative

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a controversial interpretation of the Kalevala, proposed by the author. This theory posits that the epic is not a myth but a historical account of alien visitors who arrived on Earth in a spacecraft named 'Ilmatar'. These beings, referred to as 'space men' or 'aliens', were advanced humanoids from another planet.

The Arrival and Initial Challenges

The narrative suggests that the aliens, led by Väinämöinen and Ilmarinen, arrived on Earth with the intention of studying the planet and its inhabitants. The journey itself is described as taking eight years, which the author suggests could align with interstellar travel times. Upon landing, the 'Ilmatar' spacecraft encountered problems, possibly due to a malfunction or an accident during landing. The crew, including Väinämöinen (whose name is derived from the 'locking mechanism' of the ship), faced challenges adapting to Earth's environment and its microbial life. They developed a vaccine to protect themselves and the native population from diseases.

Internal Conflicts and Societal Impact

Internal conflicts arose among the alien crew. One faction, led by Väinämöinen, advocated for a hands-off approach, focusing on pure research and non-interference with Earth's native inhabitants. The other faction, led by Ilmarinen, favored a more utilitarian approach, seeking to exploit Earth's resources and inhabitants for their own purposes, viewing humans as potential labor. This conflict is interpreted as mirroring contemporary debates about industrial development and environmentalism.

The Kalevala's characters and events are reinterpreted through this alien lens. For instance, the creation of the Sampo is seen as the construction of a technological device or a data bank. The conflicts between Väinämöinen and Joukahainen are framed as disputes between different approaches to integrating with or exploiting Earth's population. Joukahainen's attempt to kill Väinämöinen with arrows is seen as an act of rebellion against the alien leadership.

The Aliens' Decision and Departure

Initially, the aliens intended to transform Earth into an industrial state. However, they encountered resistance from the native population, who were skeptical and resistant to their advanced technology and societal changes. The aliens also faced internal divisions and a growing sense of despair. Ultimately, they decided not to fully integrate with humanity or impose their technology wholesale. Instead, they focused on preserving their knowledge and culture, leaving behind a legacy that, according to the author, influenced Finnish culture and music.

The narrative suggests that the aliens, after a period of observation and interaction, decided to leave Earth. Their departure is linked to the arrival of a rescue mission from their home planet. The story of the Sampo's 'theft' is reinterpreted as a conflict related to the aliens' departure and the subsequent destruction of their base by the rescue mission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko critically examines the history of pseudoscientific claims in Finnish media and offers a highly speculative interpretation of the Kalevala. The magazine's stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk pseudoscientific narratives and encourage critical thinking. The article on the Kalevala, while presenting a fantastical theory, serves to highlight how ancient myths can be reinterpreted through modern lenses, often reflecting contemporary anxieties and interests, in this case, ufology and technological advancement. The issue also touches upon the commercialization of 'fringe' knowledge, as seen in the book sales at Akateeminen bookstore.

Other Sections

The issue also includes a brief section on 'Lyhyesti' (Briefly), discussing the surprising popularity of 'fringe' books in book sales, and an 'Oikaisuja' (Corrections) section, rectifying factual errors in previous articles. A political endorsement for Erkki Aurejärvi is also present.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 1/95, is a Finnish magazine focused on skepticism and critical examination of pseudoscientific claims. The issue primarily features book reviews and organizational news.

Book Reviews

"Syövän vaihtoehtohoidot" (Alternative Cancer Treatments)

This review, written by Eeva Nordman, discusses the book "Syövän vaihtoehtohoidot" by Veijo Saano and Harri Vertio. The book examines various alternative cancer treatments, their purported mechanisms of action, and their side effects. Nordman notes that alternative therapies have gained significant traction, with even medically trained individuals offering them. She expresses concern that this trend might be partly due to an oversupply of doctors. The book details how many alternative treatments are based on beliefs or assumptions, and that patients often spend considerable sums of money on them, sometimes for expensive laboratory tests of unproven significance. The reviewer highlights the book's value in informing patients and their families about the efficacy and risks of these treatments, lamenting that popular media often promote them without critical scrutiny.

The book is structured into chapters that cover the availability and use of alternative cancer therapies, the reasons behind their adoption (including patient dissatisfaction with conventional medicine), and specific treatments ranging from dietary changes to spiritual healing. The review points out that while conventional medical treatments are rigorously tested according to international standards, alternative therapies often bypass such scrutiny. The cost of alternative treatments in Finland is estimated to be hundreds of millions of marks, indicating a substantial industry.

"Matkalla omenapuuhun" (On the Way to the Apple Tree)

This review, by Markku Javanainen, discusses Antti Heikkilä's book "Matkalla omenapuuhun." Heikkilä, a surgeon, is presented as a proponent of alternative therapies. The book criticizes science and medicine, promotes alternative healing methods, and includes a personal spiritual confession. Javanainen notes that Heikkilä's critique of alcoholism treatment in Finland is particularly strong, calling it "official quackery." Heikkilä opposes psychotherapy and medication for alcoholism. The reviewer finds Heikkilä's arguments difficult to engage with scientifically, describing the book as a collection of opinions rather than a rigorously argued text. Heikkilä's philosophical claims about science and the mind are seen as unsubstantiated. The review also points out inconsistencies in Heikkilä's views, such as his occasional praise for science.

Javanainen highlights specific, sometimes outlandish, claims in Heikkilä's book, such as the ability to transfer consciousness. He also notes Heikkilä's paranoid views on societal control and his mischaracterization of life expectancy increases. Heikkilä's use of chaos theory and complexity theory to explain illnesses is questioned, with the reviewer asserting that drug side effects are not increasing but are better documented. The review concludes that Heikkilä's book, while containing some potentially interesting points about the patient-doctor relationship, is largely characterized by unsubstantiated opinions and a lack of logical coherence.

"Näkymättömän temppelin rakentajat" (Builders of the Invisible Temple)

This review, by Kalevi Kuitunen, discusses the book "Näkymättömän temppelin rakentajat," edited by Reijo Ahtokari, which chronicles the history of Freemasonry in Finland. Kuitunen criticizes the book for being overly flattering and omitting controversial aspects of the organization's past. He notes that historical accounts from organizations like Freemasons often tend to be sanitized. The review points out that Freemasonry's rituals preserve ancient occult traditions and that the organization has been accused of seeking world domination. The book is criticized for not mentioning the historical opposition to Freemasonry, including its persecution by the Nazis and its association with communism.

Kuitunen highlights that the Finnish book fails to address the more sensational or controversial elements often associated with Freemasonry internationally, such as the alleged involvement of Finnish Freemasons in the Tattarisuo incident or the anti-Masonic publication "Tapparamies." The review also notes that the book focuses on superficial details like the attire of members and the menu at meetings, rather than delving into the organization's deeper philosophical or political implications. The reviewer contrasts this with more critical historical accounts and mentions that the book omits key figures like Jaakko Kahma, who was reportedly linked to Finnish President Ryti and had connections to various clairvoyants and fortune-tellers.

The review also touches upon the financial and employer-based connections within Finnish Freemasonry, noting that its leaders have often held prominent positions in business and industry organizations. The book's page 73, which displays anti-Masonic articles from the 1930s, is mentioned as a point of interest. The review concludes that while the book attempts to debunk misconceptions, it ultimately fails to provide a comprehensive or critical history of Finnish Freemasonry.

Organization News: Skepsis ry

This section includes announcements and information related to the Skepsis organization. It details upcoming public lectures and events, including talks on homeopathy, communication in the context of UFO phenomena, altered states of consciousness, and quantum physics. The dates and locations for these events are provided.

There is also a call for contributions to the next issue of Skeptikko magazine, with guidelines for submitting articles, including preferred formats (PC diskette with specific word processing software or ASCII text).

Furthermore, the issue contains a notice for the annual meeting of Skepsis ry, scheduled for March 15, 1995. The agenda includes standard organizational business such as electing officers, approving reports, and setting the budget and membership fees. The annual meeting is to be followed by a public lecture on homeopathy by Veijo Saano.

Finally, a membership application form for Skepsis ry is included, outlining the benefits of membership (including a subscription to Skeptikko magazine) and the membership fee. It also provides an option to subscribe to the magazine without becoming a member.

Skepsis Organization's Principles

The final section outlines the principles of Skepsis, an organization founded in 1987. Skepsis aims to promote objective scientific research into paranormal claims without pre-judging their validity. It seeks to connect individuals interested in this field, publish relevant articles and bibliographies, and organize educational events. The organization states it is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. It welcomes applications for membership from individuals and organizations who accept its principles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of alternative medicine, particularly in the context of cancer treatment, and a skeptical analysis of organizations like Freemasonry. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting scientific rationality and evidence-based reasoning, challenging claims that lack empirical support, and exposing potential exploitation within pseudoscientific movements. The magazine actively encourages critical thinking and informed decision-making among its readers, particularly concerning health and societal phenomena.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 1/95
Date: January 1995
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, the magazine of the Finnish Skeptic Society (Skepsis ry), focuses on the organization's structure, public beliefs in the paranormal, the role of media in pseudoscience, and introduces a unique board game.

Skepsis ry: Board and Advisory Council

The issue begins by listing the current board of Skepsis ry: Veli Toukomies (Chairman), Timo Kaitaro (Vice-Chairman), Anneli Aurejärvi (Secretary), Eero Joutsikoski, and Ilpo V. Salmi. Following this is a comprehensive list of the members of the Skepsis-yhdistyksen tieteellinen neuvottelukunta (Skepsis Association's Scientific Advisory Council). This council comprises numerous professors, associate professors, and doctors from various academic fields, including Nils Edelman, Kari Enqvist, Harry Halén, Pertti Hemánus, Raimo Keskinen, S. Albert Kivinen, 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, Tytti Sutela, Raimo Tuomela, Yrjö Vasari, Johan von Wright, and Risto Vuorinen.

Contact information for membership, subscriptions, and other inquiries is provided for Anneli Aurejärvi, with a phone number (90-8252 285) and postal address (Sireenitie 10b A2, 01390 VANTAA). The association is noted as a member organization of the Federation of Finnish Learned Societies.

English Summary: Articles

Skeptikko studied PMs' beliefs in the paranormal

This article by Marketta Ollikainen reports on a survey conducted by Skeptikko among Finnish parliament members (PMs). The survey asked for their stance on 24 common claims regarding paranormal phenomena. The findings indicate that a significant portion of the PMs hold beliefs in various pseudoscientific or paranormal topics. Specifically, 38% believe in astrology, 44% in telepathy, 44% in the immortal soul, 50% in the capability to prophesy, 40% in alternative medicine, 49% in graphology, and 60% in God. Out of 200 PMs surveyed, 48 responded. The article notes that the series on paranormal phenomena broadcast by a commercial TV channel was considered by Kyröläinen to be a repetition of old, disproven claims.

Problems of scientific communication

In his article, Jukka-Pekka Puro emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating the scientific information presented by the media and the picture of the world it conveys. He argues that scientists themselves should strive to create a 'good representation' of their work to avoid leaving room for 'good unscientific representation'. Scientists should consider how to present their findings favorably to the public without compromising scientific principles. Puro identifies two key factors in scientific communication: the scientific knowledge itself and the ability to communicate it in an understandable way to the general public.

When grandpapa was reading journals

Jari Koponen's article discusses the historical phenomenon of pseudoscientific marketing through media. He notes that in the late 19th century, various mediums and paranormal phenomena were subjects of interest in newspapers. Initially, articles focused on spiritism and were relatively objective. However, as the 20th century began, the focus shifted towards sensationalism, with magazines competing for readers by including mystical elements like horoscopes and numerology. Koponen suggests that A. Conan Doyle's popular articles contributed to this trend. Ultimately, he concludes that the media played a crucial role in the spread of pseudosciences in Finland.

Controlling ufos

Juhani Kyröläinen's piece addresses the renewed public debate surrounding UFOs and paranormal phenomena, prompted by a five-part TV series directed by Juhan af Grann. Kyröläinen watched the first three parts and found them to be repetitive and lacking in new evidence.

Sporalogy Game

This section details a board game called 'Sporalogy Game', designed by Peli Toukomies and published by Nils Mustelin / Skepsis ry. The game's objective is to be the first player to reach the 'HUU-HAA conjunction'.

Game Idea

The core idea is that every path leads somewhere, with players moving along 'tracks' according to 'New Age' schedules. The number of players can vary, but not be zero, and player quality can also be zero.

Game Equipment

Players need three game pieces each, which can be symbolic items like rune stones, crystals, coffee beans, tea leaves, animal bones, or even coins and matchsticks. A standard die is required, which must be held in bright light to 'purify' it. A 'Sporalogy Level I Certificate' (UFO belt) is not mandatory but helpful. The game board is a track network, with examples including star constellations, the Finnish railway map, or the Helsinki tram map. A simplified HUU-HAA track is also provided on the back cover.

Game Play

1. All game pieces start at a common starting point, the 'H-intersection' if using the HUU-HAA track.
2. The player who has completed Sporalogy Level I starts. If no one has this certificate, the starting player is determined by rolling a 'lit' die (a die that has undergone a 'spiritual' process); the highest roll starts. This player also decides the direction of play (clockwise or counter-clockwise).
3. On their turn, a player rolls the 'lit' die twice and sums the results to determine their 'Numero Logia'.
4. The 'Numero Logia' score can be used to move up to three game pieces. However, each piece can only move in the same direction (clockwise or counter-clockwise) within a single turn. For example, a score of 8 could be used to move one piece 3 steps, another 4 steps, and a third 1 step.
5. If a player's piece lands on a 'U' or 'A' intersection, it can no longer be moved and is considered 'in transcendence'.
6. A player reaches the 'HUU-HAA conjunction' when one of their pieces is at the H-intersection, and at least two of their pieces are in transcendence.
7. The first player to reach the HUU-HAA conjunction wins the game. They are awarded a Sporalogy Level I Certificate, which allows them to start the next game automatically. The certificate is self-writing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko strongly promotes critical thinking and skepticism towards paranormal claims and pseudoscientific phenomena. The articles analyze the public's acceptance of such beliefs, the media's role in their dissemination, and the importance of clear scientific communication. The inclusion of the 'Sporalogy Game' suggests an effort to engage readers with themes related to skepticism and paranormal concepts in a playful, albeit abstract, manner. The magazine's stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and scientific literacy, as evidenced by its critical examination of unsubstantiated claims and its focus on the scientific method.