1995-3-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

This issue of Skeptikko (Number 26, dated 13.11.1995) focuses on the fundamental question of consciousness, encapsulated by the cover headline: "Ajattelen, olen olemassa - mutta miten?" (I think, therefore I am - but how?). The magazine explores this theme through various articles, examining it from philosophical, psychological, and neuroscientific perspectives, with a particular nod to the implications of quantum physics.

The Nature of Consciousness

The issue begins by addressing the common perception of consciousness as an obvious and important aspect of human existence. However, it highlights that scientists and philosophers have not reached a consensus on what consciousness is, how it should be defined, or even if it exists. The concept of consciousness is presented as a relatively new term, often replacing older notions of the soul or spirit. It is described as a process rather than a substance, often associated with attention and the subjective experience of mental states.

Researcher Antti Revonsuo is a prominent voice in this issue, contributing significantly to the discussion. He defines consciousness as a biological phenomenon that can be studied empirically. He suggests that consciousness is intrinsically linked to the brain and that our subjective experience of the world – our 'psychological reality' – is a construct of the brain. This includes our perceptions, thoughts, feelings, and desires.

Revonsuo emphasizes the subjective nature of consciousness, stating that it cannot be objectively measured or observed from an external perspective, unlike other biological phenomena. He uses dreams as an example, noting that while the brain is active during sleep, it largely shuts off external input, making the content of dreams inaccessible without the dreamer's report.

Philosophical Perspectives: Cartesian Dualism and Beyond

The magazine delves into historical philosophical attempts to understand consciousness, notably René Descartes' concept of dualism. Descartes proposed that the mind (soul) and body are distinct substances, with the mind being non-material and the body material. This dualistic view, while influential, faces challenges in explaining the interaction between the non-material mind and the material body. Revonsuo points out that the Cartesian explanation doesn't truly explain consciousness itself but rather replaces one mystery with another.

Immanuel Kant's philosophical problem of how internal mental representations can correspond to external reality is also mentioned. Franz Brentano's concept of intentionality – the property of mental states being directed towards objects – is presented as a key characteristic that distinguishes mental from physical states.

The article "Tajunta vai tietoisuus?" (Consciousness or Awareness?) by Professor Lauri Rauhala distinguishes between 'tajunta' (consciousness/awareness) as the totality of experiences and 'tietoisuus' (consciousness) when contrasted with 'unconsciousness'. Rauhala suggests that 'consciousness' in the English sense of 'consciousness' can refer to either 'tajunta' or 'tietoisuus' in Finnish.

The Scientific Challenge: Neuroscience and Quantum Physics

While neuroscience has made progress in identifying brain regions associated with processing sensory information, it has yet to explain how this information is transformed into conscious experiences. The issue highlights the 'explanatory gap' – the difficulty in bridging the subjective experience of consciousness with the objective physical processes of the brain. Revonsuo suggests that a deeper understanding of how the brain organizes information might eventually bridge this gap, similar to how early natural sciences evolved to explain the relationship between living and non-living matter.

Tarja Kallio-Tamminen's article, "Kvanttifysiikan todellisuus ja maailmankuva" (The Reality of Quantum Physics and Worldview), explores how quantum physics challenges our traditional understanding of reality. It discusses the debate between physicists like Niels Bohr and Einstein regarding the interpretation of quantum mechanics, particularly its implications for determinism and objectivity. The article posits that quantum physics may necessitate a fundamental shift in our worldview, breaking from classical physics' deterministic laws.

The Brain as a Virtual Reality

Revonsuo likens consciousness to a 'virtual reality' created by the brain. This simulated reality, though not physically existing in itself, allows us to interact with the external world. Dreams are presented as a prime example of this brain-generated virtual reality. The ongoing research aims to understand how these simulated realities are constructed and how they relate to the physical brain.

Related Phenomena and Unexplained Events

The issue touches upon how understanding consciousness might shed light on so-called 'paranormal phenomena', such as alien abductions. Revonsuo suggests that these experiences might be explained as constructs of the brain, potentially related to altered states of consciousness or dream-like experiences. The concept of 'out-of-body experiences' is also linked to these altered states, where the individual's perception of reality detaches from their physical body.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko strongly advocates for a scientific and empirical approach to understanding consciousness. It critiques purely philosophical or speculative explanations, emphasizing the need for testable hypotheses and evidence. The magazine's stance, aligned with the Skeptikko organization, is to critically examine claims, including those related to paranormal phenomena, and to seek rational, evidence-based explanations. The articles collectively argue that while consciousness remains a profound mystery, scientific inquiry, particularly in neuroscience and physics, offers the most promising path towards unraveling its complexities. The editorial also notes the publication's commitment to reprinting critical articles by historical philosophers, making them accessible to a Finnish audience.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/95, focuses on quantum mechanics through the eyes of physicists, exploring its foundational concepts, interpretations, and philosophical implications. The main cover headline is "Kvanttimekaniikka fyysikon silmin" (Quantum Mechanics Through the Eyes of a Physicist).

The Birth of Quantum Physics

Quantum mechanics emerged in the 1920s because classical mechanics could not explain phenomena like the photoelectric effect or atomic stability. This led to the discovery of discontinuity and wave-particle duality. Two main theories arose: Werner Heisenberg's matrix mechanics and Erwin Schrödinger's wave mechanics. Both predicted correct results and were later found to be different representations of the same mathematical formalism.

Heisenberg's approach, influenced by positivism, abandoned visualizable concepts and the idea of particles following specific paths in spacetime, thus avoiding many paradoxes of classical physics. Schrödinger, however, sought a more realistic interpretation, viewing waves as actual entities that constitute the world. However, these waves were found to be complex and required multidimensional spaces, especially for multi-particle systems, and their form depended on the chosen set of observables.

New Features

The wave-particle duality's origin remained unclear, but physicists learned to live with it. Elementary particles behave as particles in some experiments and as waves in others. For instance, an electron can be localized as a particle or considered a wave spread over a region. Using the wrong model leads to paradoxes.

Properties of quantum objects, like momentum and energy, can only take quantized values. Transitions between states occur abruptly, without intermediate steps. The classical idea of objects moving along specific paths is no longer valid, as determining a path requires precise knowledge of both position and momentum.

Measurement in quantum mechanics is problematic. Unlike classical measurements (e.g., measuring length), which either don't disturb the system or have controllable disturbances (e.g., measuring electric current), quantum measurements always cause uncontrollable changes. Direct observation of micro-level phenomena is impossible; it requires experimental apparatus. The state function or wave function describes all possible states of a system, but it cannot be directly observed and its interpretation is debated: is it a mathematical tool, a description of reality, or a reflection of the observer's consciousness?

Measurements force a system into one of its possible states, collapsing the wave function. Probabilities can be calculated, but they don't predict individual outcomes. This statistical prediction implies indeterminism in quantum mechanics. Unlike classical mechanics where a specific cause leads to a specific effect, quantum mechanics suggests that "individual cases slip through the net of physics," as Wolfgang Pauli put it.

Certain operators, like position and momentum, do not commute (AB ≠ BA), meaning their precise values cannot be determined simultaneously. The measurement order also affects the results. For example, measuring a particle's position precisely with a short wavelength makes its momentum highly uncertain, illustrating Heisenberg's uncertainty principle.

According to the general interpretation, a system exists in an indefinite superposition state before measurement. The role of observation is fundamentally different from classical physics. It's unclear how the vague and uncertain quantum reality transitions to the stable, separate world we experience. A key debate concerns how the familiar, stable world is possible.

In multi-particle systems, particles are not always independent before observation. An observation on one particle can affect the state of another.

The EPR Paradox

The EPR paradox, proposed by Einstein, Podolsky, and Rosen in 1935, argues that quantum mechanics cannot fully describe reality. If a particle decays into two, and the position or momentum of one is measured, the corresponding property of the other particle is instantly known due to conservation laws. Einstein inferred that these properties must have existed before measurement, implying quantum mechanics was incomplete. Bohr countered that quantum phenomena are indivisible and the entire experimental setup must be considered. Particles that were once part of the same system remain connected, even when separated, making the whole setup more than the sum of its parts.

Interpretations and Their Views on Reality

Interpretations of quantum mechanics aim to explain its novel features, which are incomprehensible from a classical physics standpoint. The Copenhagen interpretation, developed by Bohr, Heisenberg, and others, is the most widely accepted. However, its philosophical implications are often not fully explored.

Niels Bohr emphasized the epistemological lesson of quantum mechanics: the quantum world cannot be studied like the macroscopic world, which we experience directly and can observe without affecting it. In contrast, observing another person can change their behavior. Bohr stated, "We must become aware that we are not only spectators but also actors on the stage of life."

Studying a quantum system requires an apparatus that interacts with it. The system, apparatus, and experimenter form an indivisible whole. The distinction between subject and object blurs, with the observer becoming part of the phenomenon. Our language, shaped by macroscopic experience, struggles to describe this holistic micro-level reality. We use complementary descriptions (e.g., particle or wave) that are contradictory yet complementary, providing different perspectives on a multifaceted reality.

Bohr viewed humans as conditioned beings, learning to form a better understanding of the world through experience. He recognized that human influence must be included in our picture of the universe, a problem faced by thinkers like Buddha and Lao Tzu. The classical assumption of an objective observer was limited; no single, absolute view of reality is possible.

Natural scientists, Bohr argued, access a "shadow world" of symbols, not concrete reality. These symbolic, complementary descriptions, while not arbitrary, are still just representations.

Many later interpretations have tried to deny this, seeking an absolute, objective, and deterministic view of the world. The Copenhagen interpretation has been largely circumvented rather than developed. Bell found it too strange, while Einstein, de Broglie, and Schrödinger hoped for a return to classical physics' deterministic and objective view.

Hidden Variables, Bohr's Causal Interpretation

Proponents of hidden variable theories believe quantum mechanics' statistical nature stems from our ignorance of all influencing factors. If these unknown variables were known, individual particle behavior could be predicted, making quantum theory more like classical physics. However, developing such theories has not successfully restored quantum mechanics to a "normal" theory.

The EPR paradox situation has been experimentally tested. John Bell proved in 1964 that no local hidden variable theory could predict the same results as quantum mechanics. Alain Aspect's experiments confirmed quantum mechanics' accuracy, implying that the assumption of independent reality or locality must be false. Some proponents of hidden variables abandon locality, introducing a "spooky action at a distance" mechanism, which violates the speed of light limit. Others propose a superdeterministic universe where even experimental choices are predetermined.

David Bohm, a physicist and philosopher, introduced a hidden variable called the quantum potential into Schrödinger's equation. This potential, independent of field strength, contained information about the surrounding world, allowing particles to "understand" the field and anticipate measurements via a guiding wave. Bohm's model is classical and deterministic but also introduces an "organic ontology" where the world is a multidimensional, indivisible whole. Particles that seem separate are projections of this unified reality. Bohm's model predicts the same results as quantum mechanics, making it experimentally indistinguishable. The question remains whether we should accept such complex underlying structures.

Wilhelm Occam's principle of parsimony suggests choosing the simplest theory among competing ones.

Many-Worlds Interpretations

Advocates of the many-worlds interpretation seek to preserve an objective, observer-independent reality. In this view, all possibilities within the wave function are realized in separate, branching universes. We are simply in one of these universes, unable to interact with others.

This interpretation's appeal lies in its mathematical elegance and simplicity, though some find the concept of cosmic schizophrenia too high a price to pay for resolving quantum measurement problems.

Bohm's model and many-worlds interpretations represent new ontological models that explain the world from the outside. The question is whether these are sufficient or if quantum mechanics requires a more profound shift, perhaps even a change in our logic.

Quantum Logic

Classical logic is bivalent: something either is or is not. Quantum logic, developed by multi-valued logic proponents, assigns new properties to logical connectives, aligning them with operations in quantum mechanics' Hilbert space. This approach resolves quantum mechanical problems by reformulating them, but it raises the question of whether we should adopt a new logic to preserve classical physics.

Most quantum mechanics developers were not enthusiastic about this, as quantum mechanics itself is based on bivalent logic. A new logic would not necessarily increase physical understanding.

Comparison of Bohr's and Einstein's Views on Reality

Bohr and other Copenhagen interpreters felt that new physics demanded a new worldview and approach. Bohr was cautious, but his ideas have opened new avenues. His discussions with Einstein revealed fundamental differences in their views on reality, particularly concerning the nature of description, the observer's role, and the changing nature of the world.

Einstein believed mathematics was a universal language that could directly represent reality's fundamental nature, requiring only the correct isomorphic model. He thought the micro-world could also be described clearly and ontologically.

Bohr stressed that we don't understand the world solely through mathematical models. Interpretation requires classical language, which evolved from our macroscopic experience. Classical concepts, however, proved limited with relativity and quantum mechanics, failing to provide a "correct" visualizable picture of four-dimensional spacetime or the micro-world. We cannot access reality directly outside our experience. Through experience, we refine our understanding and form better models of the world. However, these models are always human-made, complementary, and symbolic, never capturing the absolute truth of the micro-world or the universe.

The Changing World

Classical physics and Einstein described a static, unchanging world where processes were reversible. Time was an illusion for Einstein, who resisted the concept of irreversibility. However, his general relativity equations, when applied to cosmology, yielded time-dependent solutions, inadvertently making him a proponent of an evolving universe.

Quantum mechanics, like classical mechanics, is fundamentally reversible through Schrödinger's equation, as long as the system is not observed. Observation, however, is an interaction that is inherently irreversible and asymmetric. Bohr highlighted the irreversible nature of measurement and the unique character of each measurement situation. Quantum mechanics has an irretrievable nature because measurement introduces asymmetry.

Bohr's view suggests the world is not a machine operating solely on deterministic laws. We cannot be external observers; we are part of the reality we study. Change is possible and inevitable, and humans shape this change.

Bohr and Einstein's differing views are significant. While physics has advanced, these fundamental philosophical issues remain. The belief in a realistic, deterministic worldview, independent of human observation, is likely outdated. The mind-body distinction, once clear, is now blurred. Bohm's work, along with that of Pauli, Stapp, Penrose, and Zohar, suggests new models where consciousness plays a role.

Quantum Mechanics and Consciousness

Classical mechanics said nothing about consciousness. However, attempts have been made to understand it within a quantum context, sometimes linking it to information processing or even suggesting consciousness collapses the wave function. This is problematic, as no one can predict or cause specific outcomes. Consciousness is invoked as an external factor, not bound by quantum rules, but its nature remains unexplained. The idea that mind shapes reality, a form of idealism, comes closer.

The problem of mind-matter interaction might stem from a flawed perspective. Quantum mechanics suggests mind and matter are aspects of a holistic reality, correlating with each other. Pauli, in the 1950s, proposed cosmic archetypes, akin to Plato's Forms, that organize both inner and outer worlds, guiding outcomes. This is not random; it's a directed evolution. Bohm's approach integrates mind and matter without massive ontological revision, seeing them as different ways of partitioning a reality that transcends both.

Bohr linked consciousness to living organisms without giving it special status, speculating about quantum effects in the brain. Modern theories by Stapp, Penrose, and Zohar explore quantum foundations of consciousness, potentially leading to a monistic, organic view of reality where mind and matter are integrated without one being reduced to the other.

Article Author

The author, Tarja Kallio-Tamminen, is a philosophy licentiate preparing a doctoral dissertation on the philosophy of quantum physics at the University of Helsinki. She has also studied particle physics. This article is based on her presentation at a Skepsis event on June 12th.

Comparison of Bohr's and Einstein's Views on Reality (Continued)

Classical mechanics' metaphors are insufficient to explain the behavior of even atomic particles. Quantum mechanics has led physicists to discuss the observer and their consciousness. One interpretation suggests the observer's consciousness collapses the wave function, actualizing one possibility. This returns the uncertain quantum reality to a normal world. However, mind does not directly influence matter; no one can predict or cause specific outcomes. Consciousness is treated as an external factor, not subject to quantum rules, leaving its nature unexplained. The idealist notion that mind shapes reality is approached.

The mind-matter interaction problem might arise from a flawed perspective. Quantum mechanics suggests mind and matter are aspects of a holistic reality, correlating with each other. Pauli proposed cosmic archetypes that organize both inner and outer worlds, guiding outcomes in a non-random, directed evolution. Bohm's approach integrates mind and matter by viewing them as ways of partitioning a reality that transcends both.

Bohr saw consciousness as part of a living organism, not separate. He speculated about quantum effects in the brain. Modern theories by Stapp, Penrose, and Zohar explore quantum foundations of consciousness, potentially leading to a monistic, organic view of reality.

Denis Diderot and the Legacy of the Enlightenment

Skepsis ry's Vice Chairman, Timo Kaitaro, defended his doctoral dissertation on the philosophy of Denis Diderot in September. The dissertation examines Diderot's relationship with reductionism and the tradition of mechanistic materialism. Diderot (1713-1784) was a key figure of the Enlightenment and a prominent representative of French materialism, influencing the later turn towards materialism.

The defense took place on September 23rd at the University of Helsinki. Skeptikko congratulates the new doctor.

Skepsis Challenge

10,000 Finnish Marks for anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/95, focuses on a variety of topics ranging from the humorous to the philosophical, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and scientific skepticism. The cover story, "Unohdetut nobelistit" (Forgotten Nobel laureates), highlights the often-absurd achievements recognized by the Ig Nobel Prizes, contrasting them with genuine Nobel laureates.

Unohdetut Nobelistit (Forgotten Nobel laureates)

The article introduces the Ig Nobel Prizes, awarded by MIT and the magazine 'Annals of Improbable Research', for research that is 'absurd' or 'cannot be replicated'. It mentions the 1994 recipients, including a Japanese institute for studying whether catfish fin movements cause earthquakes, Singapore's former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew for his research on negative reinforcement through punishing citizens for minor offenses, and a former employee of Chilean state company Codelco for losing half a percent of the national GDP. John Hagelin received an Ig Nobel for peace for claiming meditation reduced crime in Washington D.C. by 18%. The article also humorously notes L. Ron Hubbard's book 'Dianetics' being praised by the 'Nobel committee' as 'shockingly good'. The event was held at MIT, with a speech by psychologist John Mack. The Ig Nobel Prizes were founded in 1991, with the name possibly referencing Alfred Nobel's supposed relative, Ignatius Nobel, the inventor of lemonade. The article also touches on the skepticism surrounding Ignatius Nobel's existence, with some suggesting 'ig' stands for 'ignorance', and likens 'Annals of Improbable Research' to the science parody magazine 'Mad'.

Skeptikko's Summer Trip to Turku

The magazine details Skeptikko's summer excursion to Turku, which included visits to the Aboa Vetus museum, exploring ancient ruins and modern art, and experiencing a video art exhibition by Nam June Paik. The trip also featured a session on shamanistic therapy with Anu Suomela, who explained its principles and practices, comparing it to art therapy and discussing the belief in spirits and different levels of existence. The excursion concluded with a visit to the Turku Maritime Museum.

Humanism

Harald Bjon from the Turku Humanist Association presented on humanism, defining it as a movement rooted in ancient Greek philosophy, emphasizing human reason and responsibility. He highlighted the humanist ideal of a state separate from religion and the promotion of open discussion. Humanists aim to spread a scientific, religion-free worldview across all aspects of life.

Spirit and Knowledge Fair

Skeptikko participated in the annual 'Hengen ja tiedon messut' (Spirit and Knowledge Fair) in October 1995. The event showcased a wide range of pseudoscientific offerings, from auras and astrology to UFOs. Skeptikko's booth featured chemical magic tricks to demonstrate scientific explanations for seemingly paranormal phenomena, and a popular computer-based prediction system based on height, weight, and shoe size, which attracted over 500 visitors. The article notes that while some visitors were confrontational in defending their beliefs, others showed positive interest, leading to new memberships for Skeptikko.

David Hume's Essay on Miracles

This section features the second part of David Hume's essay "Ihmeistä" (On Miracles), originally published in "Tutkimus inhimillisestä ymmärryksestä" (An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding) and translated by Eino Kaila. Hume argues that for a miracle to be considered proven, the evidence must be so overwhelmingly strong that its falsity would be a greater miracle. He contends that no historical account of a miracle has met this standard, as they are often reported by unreliable sources or lack sufficient corroboration. Hume also discusses the human tendency to believe in the extraordinary and the role of emotion and imagination in accepting such accounts, particularly when they align with religious beliefs. He criticizes the uncritical acceptance of tales of monsters, strange customs, and miraculous interventions, suggesting that such beliefs are more prevalent in less educated populations and often stem from tradition rather than evidence. He also points out the contradictory nature of miracles reported by different religions, arguing that if one religion's miracles are true, then the miracles of competing religions must be false.

Upcoming Events

The magazine lists upcoming Skeptikko events for autumn 1995 and spring 1996, focusing on the theme of 'Knowledge of Human Consciousness'. These include lectures on animal consciousness by Professor Kari Lagerspetz and machine consciousness by researcher Sara Heinämaa. The spring events will cover 'Illusions of Consciousness'.

Cognitive Enhancers (Smart Drugs)

An article titled "Älyä pilleripurkista" (Intelligence from a Pill Bottle) discusses the growing trend of using 'cognitive enhancers' or 'smart drugs' to boost intelligence, memory, and performance. The article notes that while ancient herbal remedies have proven less effective, new synthetic drugs are being explored. It highlights the use of substances like vasopressin and L-dopa, originally developed for medical conditions like dementia and Parkinson's disease, by healthy individuals seeking an edge. The article cites examples from a TV program where individuals, including an author, a bodybuilder, a lawyer, and a plastic surgeon, advocate for the use of these substances. However, it also raises concerns about the lack of scientific evidence for their efficacy in healthy people and the potential for misuse and psychological dependence. The article mentions that many users rely on a combination of prescription drugs, natural supplements, and specialized diets. It also notes the development of a market for these substances, with some bars even offering 'memory-boosting cocktails'. The article concludes by questioning the safety and efficacy of these drugs, suggesting that their widespread use might be a form of drug abuse and that the pharmaceutical industry is actively developing new products for this market.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko consistently promotes a skeptical and evidence-based approach to understanding the world. It critiques pseudoscientific claims, highlights the importance of critical thinking, and contrasts them with scientific methodology. The magazine features articles on both fringe topics (Ig Nobels, shamanism, UFOs) and philosophical discussions (Hume's essay on miracles, humanism), all examined through a lens of scientific rigor. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry and against unverified beliefs, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and seek evidence-based explanations.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, number 3/95, published by Skepsis ry, focuses on critical examination of various phenomena, including 'smart drugs', alien abductions, and the scientific basis of art education. The magazine is published in Finnish and aims to promote objective and unbiased scientific research into paranormal claims.

'Smart Drugs' and Cognitive Enhancement

The article 'Älylääkkeiden maineessa olevia aineita ja tuotteita' (Substances and products with a reputation for being 'smart drugs') discusses the trend of using nootropics and other substances to enhance cognitive functions. Professor Ian Hindmarch of Surrey University is mentioned as researching 160 new drug candidates, some of which could potentially be used as 'smart drugs' for dementia. However, he expresses concern about these drugs being used by healthy individuals, which could pose a significant economic burden on society. The article draws parallels between the 'smart drug' phenomenon and alternative medicine, suggesting that the marketing strategies are similar. It lists various substances claimed to enhance intelligence, memory, and performance, including Ginkgo biloba, vitamins, DMAE, and acetyl-L-choline precursors. The author notes that while these substances are popular in laymen's health culture, scientific studies often show no effect.

Critiquing Alien Abduction Research: The Case of John E. Mack

The book review 'Tauti nimeltä abduktio' (The disease called abduction) by Lauri Gröhn critically examines John E. Mack's book 'Abduction, Human Encounters With Aliens'. Mack, a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, presents over 80 abduction experiences, detailing 13 cases in his book. The review highlights Mack's acceptance of abduction accounts as literal truth, his reliance on hypnosis, and his critique of the 'Newtonian-Cartesian scientific paradigm'. Gröhn expresses skepticism towards Mack's methodology, pointing out his lack of engagement with critical perspectives and his use of anecdotal evidence. The review also touches upon the concept of 'false memory syndrome' and 'multiple personalities' as potential explanations for abduction experiences. Mack's assertion that the 'basis elements of the abduction experiences' lack alternative explanations is questioned.

Art Education: Science or Pseudoscience?

The 'Keskustelua' (Discussion) section features an article by Richard Järnefelt titled 'Taideopetus ei ole tiedettä ollenkaan!!!' (Art education is not science at all!!!). Järnefelt argues that art education, particularly music and piano instruction, does not qualify as science. He contends that it is based on tradition and subjective experience rather than empirical observation or testable theories. Järnefelt criticizes the current art education system for lacking scientific rigor and for promoting a 'pseudoscientific' approach, funded by public money. He contrasts this with his own work at the Järnefelt Institute, which he claims is based on a testable theory of art experience.

Health Scares and Skeptical Investigations

Another section reports on a health scare in Belgium where 70 women were hospitalized after taking a Chinese herbal remedy for weight loss. The remedy, intended to melt away fat, instead caused kidney damage and failure in the women. The article, referencing the German magazine Skeptiker, highlights the potential dangers of untested alternative treatments.

English Summaries

The issue includes English summaries of several articles:

• 'I think, therefore I am, but how?' by Marketta Ollikainen discusses the challenges in understanding consciousness from a scientific perspective, noting its basis in subjective experiences.
• 'The reality and world view of quantum Mechanics' by Tarja Kallio-Tamminen explores the ongoing debates about the interpretation of quantum mechanics and its implications for our worldview.
• 'Quantum physics and philosophy' by Kari Enqvist explains that quantum mechanics is a physical theory of the microworld that works independently of philosophical interpretations, and that its predictions can be compared with experimental data.
• 'Intelligence from a pillbox' by Veijo Saano examines the history and popularity of 'intelligence medicines' or nootropics, despite a lack of scientific evidence for their effectiveness.

Skepsis Organization Information

The latter part of the magazine provides information about the Skepsis organization, including how to become a member, subscription details for the Skeptikko magazine, and contact information for the association's secretary, Anneli Aurejärvi. It also outlines the purpose and principles of Skepsis, which include promoting objective scientific research into paranormal claims, maintaining a network of interested individuals, publishing articles, and conducting educational activities. The organization is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, the importance of scientific methodology, and the critical examination of popular trends in health, science, and education. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and scientific inquiry, actively questioning and debunking claims that lack empirical support, whether they pertain to 'smart drugs', alien abductions, or the scientific validity of artistic disciplines.