1995-2-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 2/95
Date: June 27, 1995
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish skeptical magazine, focuses heavily on a critical examination of chiropractic, questioning its scientific validity and labeling it as "legalized superstition." The cover headline boldly asks, "Chiropractic - legalized superstition?" The issue also features articles on David Hume's ideas about miracles, "Swift reads the stars," the Sokrates prize, and a skeptical look at a writer.

Chiropractic: Legalized Superstition?

The main article, "Kiropraktiikka, laillistettua taikauskoa?" (Chiropractic, legalized superstition?) by Mahlon W. Wagner, delves deep into the history and practices of chiropractic. It traces the origins of chiropractic back to Daniel David Palmer in 1895, who, according to the article, was a self-taught healer with a background in phrenology, spiritualism, and magnetic healing. Palmer claimed to have received knowledge from the spiritual world to develop his methods. The article highlights Palmer's belief that misalignments of the spine were the sole cause of all diseases, and correcting these misalignments would allow the body's 'innate intelligence' to heal itself.

Wagner criticizes chiropractic for its pseudoscientific roots, noting that despite claims of being based on science, its founder was an occultist who disdained traditional medicine. The article details Palmer's accidental discovery of chiropractic's efficacy when he forcefully adjusted the spine of a deaf patient, Harvey Lillard, who subsequently regained his hearing. This event led Palmer to abandon magnetic healing and focus solely on chiropractic.

The article points out that many modern chiropractors still adhere to Palmer's original ideas, often opposing the use of medication, vaccinations, and most surgeries. A study is cited indicating that 80% of chiropractors surveyed did not want their children vaccinated, and many denied the scientific evidence for vaccinations. This suggests a strong, emotional commitment to an ideology opposed to established medicine.

The Medical Community's Skepticism

The medical community's persistent skepticism towards chiropractic is attributed to its emphasis on observation over empirical evidence and its reliance on metaphysical concepts like 'vital force' and 'innate intelligence.' The article notes that historically, anyone could become a chiropractor without extensive medical training. Despite the growth of chiropractic schools and professional organizations, critics argue that studies have failed to prove its efficacy. While the first scientific publication related to chiropractic, the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT), only appeared in the 1980s, numerous studies are cited that are claimed by chiropractors to support their practice. However, the article scrutinizes these studies, pointing out flaws such as biased review panels (e.g., the New Zealand commission with only three members, including a lawyer and a retired headmistress) and the lack of proper control groups. The RAND Corporation study, funded by the chiropractic profession itself, is also questioned for its methodology.

Questionable Practices and Marketing

The article details various questionable practices employed by some chiropractors, including the use of iridology, hair analysis, reflexology, and magnetic therapy. It notes that chiropractors with X-ray equipment are more likely to use them, suggesting that profit motives influence diagnostic practices. Many of these unscientific techniques are taught in continuing education seminars, which are presented as opportunities to increase patient numbers and income. The article also highlights that chiropractic education often lacks rigorous scientific training and statistical analysis, and that many chiropractors are isolated from the scientific community, with less than 10% subscribing to the main scientific journal in their field.

Chiropractors are described as effective marketers who encourage patients to undergo long-term treatment, even after their initial pain has subsided. They may recommend regular spinal adjustments for infants to prevent future health issues or claim to treat conditions like ear infections in children by adjusting neck vertebrae. The article also mentions the use of 'applied kinesiology' and the sale of supplements, including homeopathic and Chinese remedies, which are often of questionable value but provide significant income for practitioners.

Safety Concerns and Patient Satisfaction

While the article acknowledges that over 99.9% of chiropractic adjustments do not result in serious harm, it warns of rare but severe cases, such as paralysis from neck adjustments. Misdiagnoses have also led to delayed treatment for serious conditions like fractures, Hodgkin's disease, and heart attacks. A case is cited where a chiropractor advised a patient with chest pain against seeking medical attention, only for the patient to be diagnosed with a partially collapsed lung.

Despite these criticisms, chiropractic has gained significant popularity, particularly in the United States, where it is the third most popular form of treatment and licensed in all states. This popularity is attributed to aggressive marketing campaigns, seminars, and the perceived friendliness and empathy of chiropractors. The article notes that many prominent figures, including former US presidents and actors, have publicly endorsed chiropractic, but dismisses this as a logical fallacy (appeal to authority).

Patient satisfaction surveys are discussed, with one study showing that chiropractic patients were three times more satisfied with their treatment for lower back pain than those treated by family doctors. However, the article argues that this satisfaction may be due to factors other than the efficacy of the treatment itself, such as the time chiropractors spend with patients and the placebo effect.

Skepsis ry's Role and Internet Presence

Ilpo V. Salmi, Chairman of Skepsis ry, discusses the organization's efforts to engage with younger audiences through initiatives like the "para-fact project" and the establishment of the Sokrates prize. The prize was awarded to Sini Hirsikangas-Huttunen for her work in youth education. Skepsis ry has also launched a website on the Internet, aiming to connect enthusiasts and foster critical inquiry into pseudoscientific beliefs. Salmi emphasizes the growing importance of the Internet as a cultural force and sees Skepsis ry as well-suited to operate within its environment, promoting critical thinking and a "third literacy" beyond basic reading and digital skills.

Chiropractic in Finland

The article "Suomessa 'kiropraktiikkaa' voi harjoittaa kuka tahansa" (In Finland, 'chiropractic' can be practiced by anyone) highlights the unregulated nature of chiropractic in Finland. While the Finnish Chiropractic Association has only 25 members, it is estimated that over a thousand individuals offer chiropractic treatments. The association's chairman, Kari Kause, distinguishes between trained and untrained practitioners, noting that many members have completed a six-year Doctor of Chiropractic program with a strong medical curriculum. However, he laments the confusion for the public, as anyone can claim to be a chiropractor. The article mentions that while the title 'chiropractor' is not protected, a law on protected professions allows for the registration of individuals with at least four years of training, with 24 such individuals registered by the National Authority for Welfare and Health. It advises consumers to verify the credentials of their practitioners.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the critical examination of claims made by alternative medicine practitioners, particularly chiropractors. The magazine consistently contrasts these claims with scientific evidence, or the lack thereof. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk pseudoscience and promote critical thinking. The use of logical fallacies, pseudoscientific jargon, and aggressive marketing tactics by chiropractors are highlighted as major concerns. The issue advocates for evidence-based medicine and warns consumers about the potential dangers and ineffectiveness of unproven treatments.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 2/95, features a collection of articles primarily in Finnish, exploring themes of skepticism, critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscientific claims. The content spans historical satire, philosophical inquiry, and contemporary educational outreach.

Editorial Section: Toimitukselta

The editorial section begins with a strong reaction from Tuula Koukku, editor-in-chief of Tiede 2000 magazine, to a survey conducted by Skeptikko. Koukku expresses her displeasure with questions in the survey that touched upon the immortality of the soul and the existence of God, finding them to be outside the purview of skeptical inquiry. She quotes, "If Finnish skeptics, who strongly emphasize a critical attitude, have now resolved the issue (of God's existence), I can only wish them protection from their other 'researches'." Koukku notes that even religious scholars do not consider the existence of God to be within the realm of science. She acknowledges that the survey's title might have been misleading, as stated by Jan Rydman in Tieteessä tapahtuu magazine, but clarifies that the intent was not to label phenomena as 'hoaxes' but rather to ascertain the beliefs of members of parliament. The survey aimed to explore the views of the highest decision-making body in Finland on various beliefs and to investigate potential correlations between them. However, due to a low response rate, definitive conclusions could not be drawn, though it did offer some insight into the previous parliament's opinions. The author, writing as a journalist, disagrees with Koukku's assertion that the low response rate should have led to the survey's abandonment, arguing that even a small response rate from such a significant group carries weight. The survey did reveal interesting aspects of some parliament members' beliefs, and it is hoped that this will encourage citizens to learn more about their representatives' views. The editorial also touches upon the idea that many so-called 'hoax products' are harmless entertainment for users, but Skeptikko's experience suggests that people often cannot distinguish between harmless and harmful pseudoscience. Chiropracty is cited as an example of a practice that, while widely accepted, may involve questionable services. Despite criticism from a respected science magazine, Skeptikko intends to continue challenging the spread of hoaxes when warranted, suggesting that the term 'hoax' itself might need better definition for clearer discussions.

Article: Miracles (Ihmeistä) by David Hume

This section presents an excerpt from David Hume's philosophical work, translated into Finnish. Hume begins by discussing the nature of evidence and belief, particularly in relation to testimony and experience. He argues that our certainty about religious doctrines, which are based on the testimony of apostles who witnessed miracles, is less certain than our certainty about sensory experiences. Hume posits that a weaker proof can never overcome a stronger one, and that while scripture and tradition may claim authority, they do not possess the same certainty as direct sensory perception. He introduces the concept that experience is our primary guide to facts, but acknowledges that experience itself can be fallible. Hume emphasizes that wise individuals align their beliefs with the evidence of experience. When events are consistently observed to occur together, we develop a high degree of confidence in their connection. However, when faced with conflicting experiences, we must weigh them, giving more credence to the side with greater empirical support. This principle of weighing evidence is crucial for evaluating testimony. Hume states that if a fact is extraordinary or miraculous, the testimony supporting it must be equally, if not more, extraordinary to be credible. He uses the example of Cato, whose testimony would be dismissed if he claimed something unbelievable, and the Indian prince who doubted the possibility of snow, as his experience did not encompass such phenomena. Hume defines a miracle as a violation of the laws of nature, which are established by constant and invariable experience. Therefore, any testimony claiming a miracle is inherently contradicted by the overwhelming evidence of natural laws. He asserts that for a miracle to be believed, the testimony must be so strong that its falsehood would be more miraculous than the event itself. He illustrates this with the example of a person commanding a sick person to be healthy or a healthy person to fall dead; such events, if they occurred as commanded, would be miracles because they would violate natural laws. However, if such events were mere coincidences, they would not be considered miracles. Hume concludes that no testimony can establish a miracle unless the falsehood of the testimony itself would be more miraculous than the event it purports to prove.

Article: Mankkaa Middle School Discusses Fringe Science

This article reports on a special event held at Mankkaa middle school in Helsinki on May 18, 1995. The event featured talks on Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Kirlian photography. To provide a counterpoint to these pseudoscientific topics, the school invited a representative from Skepsis ry (the Finnish Skeptics Society) to speak about pseudoscience from a skeptical perspective and about skepticism in general. The author, Robert Brotherus, was unable to attend the NLP lecture but found the Kirlian photography presentation, by Matti Ollila, to be critically examined, with Ollila emphasizing the importance of physical factors influencing the images. However, the detailed explanations and technical jargon led to a loss of interest among the ninth-graders. Brotherus's own presentation covered critical thinking, the principle of Occam's Razor, David Hume's arguments, the burden of proof, the child's tendency towards 'childlike faith,' the development of critical thinking, the physical basis of Kirlian photography and related pseudoscience, auroras, astrology, the Barnum effect, UFOs and abductions, alternative medicine like homeopathy, the definition of paranormal phenomena, and the distinction between science and fringe science. He also discussed skepticism's stance on religion, creationism, and the role of skeptics as educators. The students were reportedly very engaged, with many questions and applause. The article notes that the students' knowledge of skepticism was limited, with most having negative preconceptions. However, it is hoped that the event will lead some students to become members of Skepsis ry in the future. The teacher, Terttu Sääskilahti, plans to make this a yearly event, while the pseudoscientists' participation is not mentioned.

Article: Swift Reads the Stars

This article, by Petri Salin, details Jonathan Swift's satirical attack on the astrologer John Partridge in 1708. Swift, under the pseudonym Isaac Bickerstaff, published a pamphlet criticizing the state of modern astrology, blaming charlatans for its decline. He specifically targeted Partridge, a former shoemaker who had become a successful astrologer and almanac writer, known for his anti-Catholic sentiments and royal patronage. Bickerstaff's pamphlet predicted Partridge's death on March 29th. The prediction, despite its absurdity, gained significant traction and was widely reprinted. Swift followed up with a satirical elegy and another piece detailing the 'fulfillment' of Bickerstaff's prophecy, noting the slight discrepancy in the time of death. The article explains that Swift's intention was not just to ridicule Partridge but to question the validity of astrology itself. However, Swift's sophisticated satire, filled with wordplay and absurdity, was largely perceived as entertainment, overshadowing its deeper critique of gullibility and the acceptance of pseudoscience. The article then discusses Partridge's reaction to the satire, his attempts to prove he was alive, and the eventual decline of his career. It also touches upon Swift's later life and his famous work 'Gulliver's Travels,' which continues to offer a sharp critique of human folly.

Article: Partridge Defends Himself

This section continues the narrative of Swift's satire against John Partridge. Swift, along with friends like Congreve, Gay, Pope, Steele, Addison, and Rowe, used Partridge's own clumsy and uneducated writings as ammunition. They published a pamphlet in Partridge's name, ostensibly defending him and condemning Bickerstaff's actions, which only served to further mock Partridge and elevate Swift's satirical prowess. The article highlights the absurdity of Partridge's defense, where he claims to be alive, directly contradicting Bickerstaff's prediction. Swift, in his response, uses semantic arguments to dismantle Partridge's claims of being alive, suggesting that if he were alive, it would be through necromancy. Swift laments the public's reaction, which he feels has turned his serious critique into mere entertainment, devaluing profound thought. The article concludes by noting that Partridge's career was ruined, replaced by a legion of other astrologers, and that his almanac, 'Merlinus Liberatus,' was taken over by the Company of Starioners. Partridge's attempt to legally challenge this decision was unsuccessful.

Article: But Astrology Remained

This article reflects on the aftermath of Swift's satire. While Swift's campaign successfully ended Partridge's fraudulent career, it did not achieve its broader goal of discrediting astrology as a whole. The public, amused by the satire, focused on the personal ridicule of Partridge rather than engaging with the underlying critique of astrological claims. The article suggests that Swift's sophisticated and playful style may have inadvertently obscured his didactic intent. Despite Partridge's downfall, astrology as a practice persisted, with other practitioners filling the void. The article questions whether Partridge ever truly recovered from Swift's prank, with conflicting accounts of his later life. One version suggests he faded into obscurity and died in 1715, while another, considered more plausible by the author, states that he regained popularity and wealth after the public's amusement subsided, continuing to offer his 'services.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko revolve around the critical examination of extraordinary claims, the nature of evidence, and the importance of rational thinking. The magazine consistently advocates for a skeptical approach, distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and pseudoscientific beliefs. The historical pieces by David Hume and Jonathan Swift serve to illustrate the enduring relevance of skepticism in challenging unfounded beliefs and exposing fraud. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning, aiming to educate readers about the pitfalls of gullibility and the methods of critical evaluation. The inclusion of the school event highlights a commitment to fostering these skills from a young age.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 2/95
Date: Not specified, but context suggests mid-1990s.
Publisher: Skeptikko
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko magazine delves into various topics related to skepticism, alternative medicine, and paranormal phenomena, featuring reports on events, critical analyses, and literary reviews.

Helli, Elä ja Hoivaa Fair

The magazine reports on the 'Helli, Elä ja Hoivaa' (Care, Live, and Heal) fair held at Finlandia Hall in Helsinki. The event showcased hobbies, pets, and a wide array of therapies and natural health treatments. While the main hall focused on more grounded topics, the upper floor was dedicated to 'rajatieto' (paranormal information), featuring numerous therapies. The Luontaislääkinnän Instituutti Kairo offered lymph and other massages, while other stalls provided foot reflexology analysis and acupuncture. A notable item was a 'korva-laser-akupunktio' (ear-laser-acupuncture) device, priced at 120,000 Finnish marks, claimed to treat various ailments. The article notes that similar devices have sold over a thousand units in Germany.

The fair also offered 'free' treatments, but many visitors found themselves observing rather than participating, as the free sessions seemed to be offered primarily to middle-aged women, presumably potential clients. One such session involved a foot treatment with a vibrating device, and the practitioner also sold a 1,600 mark treatment package. Another stall offered 'Foot Creme - 140ml' for foot ailments. An 'Acu-massage' device was available for trial, promising both physical and psychological benefits by removing 'dead muscle cells.' The article also touches upon herbal products, with one vendor claiming that other spices are 'irradiated,' causing them to lose their trace elements.

UFOs Explained in Jyväskylä

The issue covers a popular UFO seminar held at the University of Jyväskylä, organized by the Department of Ethnology and the student organization Nefa-Jyväskylä ry. The seminar, titled 'Nomads of the Universe - UFOs as a Cultural Phenomenon,' attracted a large audience. Associate Professor Päivikki Suojanen discussed how different cultures explain the unexplainable through rituals and myths, without necessarily questioning the authenticity of UFO experiences. Hannu Karttunen, editor-in-chief of Skeptikko, highlighted a key problem in UFO research: relying solely on others' accounts. He questioned why UFOs always offer generic advice about peace and environmental warnings instead of concrete evidence of advanced intelligence.

Psychiatrist Kari Pylkkänen analyzed collective delusions and the boundary between imagination and reality, suggesting that an overemphasis on imagination can lead to detachment from reality, while too little can cause individuals to become overly fixated on the real world. He proposed that some people seek answers to their inner selves in the universe. Folklorist Olavi Räsänen drew parallels between modern UFO sightings and historical encounters with supernatural beings like elves and angels, suggesting a continuity in how people interpret the unknown. Filmmaker Juhan af Grann criticized the media for their critical review of his documentary, arguing that public opinion, with 70% of the population believing in UFOs, should be considered.

The seminar also saw audience participation, with discussions on earth radiation and the origins of UFOs, though the article notes that the discussion did not lead to particularly insightful conclusions. The seminar took place on February 17th.

The Wonderful World of Biophotons

Homeopath Pekka Niemi presented his views on homeopathy, stating it works on the body's energy level, unlike conventional medicine which operates on a chemical level. He cited the EU-funded 'cost-project' as evidence of research into homeopathy. Niemi also discussed the 'biophoton theory,' referencing experiments by Popp's laboratory in Germany, which measured biophoton levels in food. He mentioned that Nestle reportedly rejected products lacking sufficient biophotons. Another example involved a laser experiment in Lahti, where biophotons were observed to transfer between sealed containers of microorganisms.

The article notes that the Jyväskylä Skeptikko group found it difficult to generate a meaningful discussion on the topic, viewing it more as a matter of belief than scientific argument. Pekka Niemi's presentation was on February 27th.

Doctors Critical of Alternative Medicine

A survey conducted by the Finnish Medical Association revealed that doctors remain largely critical of alternative therapies. Chiropractic was the most positively viewed, with 36% willing to recommend it. However, 57% considered spiritual healing to be a form of deception, and 46% would have banned homeopathy. Ginseng and zone therapy also faced significant criticism. The survey also addressed doctors' views on antioxidants and amalgam-related symptoms, with most doctors unconvinced of their efficacy against serious diseases. Regarding amalgam, a majority believed it unlikely to cause general symptoms, though a minority acknowledged potential sensitivities.

Younger doctors (under 30) and male doctors tended to be more critical than older doctors and women, respectively. The survey also compared current attitudes to a similar one from 1988, indicating a slight shift towards more openness, though views on homeopathy remained unchanged. The article suggests a greater willingness to allow alternative therapies if individuals believe they are beneficial.

Skeptikko Association Activities

The Skeptikko association held its annual meeting on March 23rd, electing Ilpo V. Salmi as the new chairman, succeeding Veli Toukomies. The board also welcomed new member Robert Brotherus, a student of physical chemistry. Membership fees were kept the same. The association plans to continue its popular public events and the 'Huuhaa' award. A new initiative, 'ParaFakta '95,' aims to provide information on paranormal phenomena and their backgrounds to high school students, but the association is seeking external support for this project.

New Blood in Skeptikko's Board

Robert Brotherus, a 21-year-old physical chemistry student, was elected to the Skeptikko board, aiming to counter the perception of the organization as solely for older individuals. Brotherus, who has been a skeptic since childhood, joined the association after reading a review of a Skeptikko publication. He describes his current approach as less aggressive and more focused on clarifying his thoughts.

Sokrates Award for Sini Hirsikangas-Huttunen

Skeptikko awarded Sini Hirsikangas-Huttunen the Sokrates award for her extensive work in educating young people. Hirsikangas-Huttunen, a biology and geography teacher, has encouraged critical thinking among her students. She also runs a philosophy club and has involved students in Skeptikko events. The award recognizes her contribution to increasing the association's membership with critical young researchers. The award is not annual but given for exceptional work in promoting Skeptikko's goals.

Simo Hämäläinen - Literary Skeptic?

This section reviews the works of author Simo Hämäläinen, known for his humorous and intelligent writing. The author suggests Hämäläinen can be considered a 'literary skeptic' for his ability to critically examine phenomena without resorting to outright dismissal. His early works were suspense novels, often featuring anti-heroes. Later books explored military life and rural settings, with 'Kätkäläinen' being a breakthrough success. Hämäläinen's writing is praised for its authentic portrayal of the Savonian dialect and its philosophical depth. The article quotes Hämäläinen on the nature of belief and theory: "Two assumptions bolster each other's probability. Two reliable guesses are already full proof. A person is such that what they want to believe, exists. And what is not wanted to be seen, is not noticed even if one stands on tiptoes."

Hämäläinen's later works include 'Jätkät,' a depiction of the vanishing lumberjack profession, and short story collections like 'Suomalainen sumopainija' and 'Moebiuksen lehti.' His novella 'Ihmisen ystävä' (Man's Friend) is an UFO story that satirizes the typical portrayal of aliens and the credulity of UFO enthusiasts. The reviewer anticipates more works from Hämäläinen, possibly a major magnum opus.

European Skeptics Convene in Germany

The annual European Skeptics conference was held in Rossdorf, Germany. This year's conference was organized by the European Council of Skeptical Organisations (ECSO) in collaboration with the German skeptical organization GWUP. Key topics included problems related to observation and self-deception, the success of fringe science, the pseudoscience of creationism, astrology, and 'ecoplasm.' The conference attracted around a hundred skeptics from across Europe.

Briefs: Harvard Investigates UFO Abduction Research

Harvard University is reportedly investigating its psychiatry professor John Mack for potentially unprofessional conduct in his research on UFO abductions. A committee has been formed to assess whether his research meets generally accepted scientific criteria. Mack's book 'Abduction: Human Encounters with Aliens' became a bestseller, and he gained popularity as a guest on talk shows. The article notes that while Mack's colleagues are concerned, he himself has expressed doubts about believing in aliens, but does not consider his patients mentally ill. The committee's report is expected soon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and scientific skepticism. It scrutinizes alternative medicine, paranormal claims, and pseudoscientific theories, often contrasting them with established scientific understanding. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and a rational approach to phenomena, while also acknowledging the cultural and psychological aspects of belief systems. The magazine also highlights the activities of the Skeptikko association, fostering a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to promoting critical inquiry.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 2/95
Date: 1995
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, the magazine of the Finnish Skeptics Society, covers a range of topics including legal battles, educational developments, paranormal claims, and scientific perspectives.

Uri Geller vs. CSICOP Lawsuit Concluded

The long-running legal dispute between psychic Uri Geller and the skeptical organization CSICOP has reached a conclusion. Geller has paid the first installment of 40,000 dollars towards the 120,000 dollar compensation he was ordered to pay. The case originated from a 1991 interview in the International Herald Tribune where magician James Randi called Geller a fraud. Geller sued Randi and CSICOP for 15 million dollars, but his claims were dismissed as 'frivolous'. The article notes that Geller has lost numerous other lawsuits against skeptics.

Christian School to Replace Basic Education in Helsinki

The Helsinki City Council has decided that the Christian school in Jakomäki, operating since 1987, will become a school replacing basic education starting from August. The decision awaits final approval from the Ministry of Education. Previously, the ministry had rejected similar applications, citing that Christianity was not considered a 'universally recognized pedagogical system'. However, the current application is expected to be approved. Concerns have been raised about the school's curriculum, which includes creationism as a fundamental part of its worldview. The school's principal, Jukka Launo, confirmed that creation theory is the basis for biology lessons, though he added that students are also informed about scientists who believe in evolution. He believes that children at that age can recognize different viewpoints.

Skepsis Goes Online

Skepsis has launched its own World Wide Web pages, making information about the association accessible via the Internet. The website, located at http://www.helsinki.fi/~sjhiltun/skepsis.html, provides details on the association's principles, membership, and contact information for other skeptical organizations. The site also offers a way to search for topics of interest to skeptics within the vastness of the internet, including articles from Skeptical Inquirer.

Joining the internet is described as easy, requiring a 386 PC with 4MB RAM, a v.32bis modem, and an internet browser. The article provides instructions on how to obtain these, including a phone number for Telen iNet service. Sami Hiltunen, who spearheaded the website project, reports significant interest, with an average of a hundred inquiries per week.

Quantum Physics Lecture Draws Record Crowd

Skepsis's final public lecture of the spring, held on June 12th at Helsinki University's Porthania, attracted a record audience. The hall was reportedly packed with at least 280 attendees, exceeding the seating capacity of 250. The lecture, given by Licentiate of Philosophy Tarja Kallio-Tammine, focused on the worldview of quantum physics. An article based on this presentation will be published in the upcoming issue of Skeptikko.

Discussion: "Am I a UFO Sighter?"

This section addresses a discussion on MTV's MediaPeli program about UFOs. Astronomy enthusiast Martti Muinonen questioned why astronomy enthusiasts don't report UFO sightings, given that many enthusiasts spend thousands of hours observing the sky. Tapani Kuningas of URSA responded by stating that the issue of UFOs in Finland has not been sufficiently studied and that many URSA members have reported unidentified aerial phenomena. However, he clarified that no member has reported anything suggesting extraterrestrial visitors. Kuningas cited an article from Ilta-Sanomat which stated that science refutes UFO hysteria and that no one has been found. He explained that while unidentified lights are seen, they are often explainable as space debris, satellites, or aircraft. He emphasized that it is rare for someone knowledgeable about celestial phenomena to see something they cannot identify.

Seppo Linnaluoto, head of URSA, further elaborated that the definition of a UFO is crucial. He noted that while people have many daily sensory experiences that go unidentified, these are not typically labeled as UFOs. He also mentioned that URSA accepts reports of strange light phenomena, but few have been submitted, suggesting that those who read the relevant book may not have witnessed such events.

The discussion also touched upon the lack of a clear definition for 'UFO' in television discussions, leading to confusion between alien spacecraft and unidentified aerial phenomena. A phone poll asking "Do you believe in UFOs?" was conducted without providing a definition.

Skepsis Summer Trip

Skepsis is organizing its traditional summer trip for the last weekend of August (26-27.8.). The program was still open at the time of printing, but it is expected to be geared towards younger members and may take place in Turku and Karjaa. Interested individuals can contact the association's secretary, Anneli Aurejärvi, for more information and to register.

Autumn Public Lectures

Skepsis will host four public lectures in the autumn, focusing on the theme of awareness. These lectures will be held at Helsinki University's Porthania on Wednesdays: September 13th, October 11th, November 15th, and December 13th. The first lecture begins at 5:00 PM, with subsequent lectures starting at 6:00 PM. Further details on the program will be available in the next Skeptikko issue and via the association's service phone.

Join Skepsis!

Information is provided on how to become a member of Skepsis. The annual membership fee is 100 Finnish Marks (mk), with a reduced rate of 30 mk for those under 20. This fee includes a subscription to Skeptikko magazine. The membership fee can be paid to the association's account. It is also possible to subscribe to Skeptikko magazine without becoming a member for the same annual fee.

Skepsis's Principles

Skepsis, founded in 1987, is a Finnish organization of skeptics. Its operating principles are similar to those of the American CSICOP, but it operates independently while collaborating with CSICOP and other similar organizations. The association's purpose is to promote objective and unbiased scientific research into claims of the paranormal, without taking a priori stances. It aims to maintain a network of interested individuals, publish articles and books on paranormal claims, and organize meetings and conferences. Skepsis is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. The board can approve applications from individuals and eligible organizations that accept these principles.

Skepsis Board and Scientific Advisory Board

The issue lists the members of the Skepsis ry board, including Ilpo V. Salmi as chairman and Anneli Aurejärvi as secretary. It also lists the members of the Scientific Advisory Board, comprising professors and docents from various fields.

English Summary

This section provides English translations of key articles:

• Skepsis enters the Internet: Discusses the launch of Skepsis's World Wide Web pages as part of a project to engage more young people.
• Chiropractic, a legalized superstition?: An article by Mahlon W. Wagner, based on a presentation to the Eurosceptics, critiques chiropractic as a pseudoscience that has become popular.
• Socrates award granted for critical education: Skepsis has awarded Sini Hirsikangas-Huttunen the Socrates award for her work in promoting critical thinking among high school students.
• New chairman for Skepsis: Ilpo V. Salmi has been elected as the new chairman, succeeding Veli Toukomies.
• Doctors critical towards alternative medicine: A survey indicates that Finnish doctors are generally critical of alternative medicine, with chiropractic being viewed more positively than faith healing.

Advertising

The issue includes an advertisement for Ketorin, a pain relief medication containing ketoprofen, highlighting its rapid absorption and effectiveness for various types of pain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are the promotion of critical thinking and scientific skepticism, the debunking of paranormal claims, and the dissemination of information about the Skepsis organization and its activities. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and scientific inquiry, as demonstrated by the coverage of the Geller lawsuit, the critique of chiropractic, and the discussion of UFO sightings. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of education and public awareness regarding scientific and pseudoscientific claims.