1996-4-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

This issue of Skeptikko (4/96, Number 31), dated December 31, 1996, published by Skepsis ry, is dedicated to exploring the nature of skepticism, its philosophical underpinnings, and its role in challenging pseudoscience and irrationality. The cover boldly proclaims "HuuHaa!" with the subtitle "– Skepsis jakoi ruusuja ja risuja –" (Skepsis gave roses and thorns), indicating a dual focus on recognizing positive contributions and criticizing negative ones within the realm of science and belief.

Editorial: Hyppy 22. kerroksesta (A Jump from the 22nd Floor)

The editorial, written by Kari Enqvist, Professor of Theoretical Physics at the University of Helsinki and a member of Skepsis's scientific council, addresses a paradox of the modern era: while scientific and technological advancements are unprecedented, there's a simultaneous resistance to science. Enqvist notes that historically, challenges to science came from outside (e.g., religious arguments), but now, criticism often adopts scientific language and concepts. He points to the phenomenon of pseudoscientific claims using terms from physics and mathematics, and cites the widely publicized hoax by American physicist Alan Sokal. Sokal managed to get a deliberately nonsensical article published in a leading cultural studies journal, arguing that the value of pi depends on the observer. This hoax, Enqvist explains, revealed how easily some postmodern philosophers engage in unscientific discourse, and underscored that anyone presenting claims as science must submit to its rigorous standards. He concludes by referencing Sokal's challenge to those who view gravity as a social construct: to test it by jumping from his 22nd-floor window, a testament to the empirical nature of scientific claims.

Table of Contents

The issue features a comprehensive table of contents, listing articles on various topics. Key articles include:

• "Ettäkö skeptikoillakin arvoja!" (Do Skeptics Have Values?) by Arto Siitonen.
• "Tutkiiko tiede todellisuutta?" (Does Science Investigate Reality?) by Sami Pihlström.
• "Kirliankuvausta ja pakaraterapiaa" (Kirlian Photography and Buttock Therapy) by Lauri Gröhn.
• "Tapaus Sokal eli elääkö Elvis" (The Sokal Affair or Is Elvis Alive?) by Juha Savolainen.
• "Ihmeitä vastaan Intiassa" (Miracles in India).
• Discussions on the Skepsis association's activities, including awards and challenges.

Article: Ettäkö skeptikoillakin arvoja! (Do Skeptics Have Values?)

Arto Siitonen explores the perception of skeptics and their values. He notes that skeptics are often viewed negatively, accused of destroying values and denying knowledge. However, from a skeptic's perspective, skepticism is a positive and essential way of thinking, characterized by critical inquiry, questioning, and a reluctance to accept claims without sufficient evidence. This approach prevents them from falling into wishful thinking, dogma, or herd mentality. Siitonen contrasts external criticism of skepticism with internal self-reflection, where skeptics examine their own motivations and the justification for their stance. He defines the skeptic's ethos as continuous questioning, weighing arguments, and seeking a state of undisturbedness (ataraxia), not as a goal but as a consequence of avoiding unfounded beliefs. He traces the historical evolution of skepticism, from Pyrrho to Carneades and Arkesilaos, and discusses its modern interpretations.

Siitonen argues that skepticism is not about denying knowledge or truth but about demanding rigorous justification for claims. He differentiates between 'knowledge skepticism' (tietoskeptisismi) and 'truth skepticism' (totuusskeptisismi), noting that while some philosophical stances might deny the existence of knowledge or truth, true skeptics focus on the criteria for knowledge and the validity of claims. He emphasizes that a skeptic's stance is about questioning excessive claims and demanding evidence, especially when paranormal phenomena are presented as fact. The article also touches upon 'value skepticism' (arvoskeptisismi), questioning whether it accurately reflects the skeptic's position.

Siitonen defends skepticism against accusations of being unscientific, passive, or dangerous. He argues that questioning is fundamental to progress and that skeptics act as benefactors of humanity by promoting critical inquiry. He asserts that skepticism is not about ignorance but about the pursuit of knowledge, and that admitting one's own ignorance is a prerequisite for genuine learning. The core values of a skeptic, according to Siitonen, include truthfulness, sincerity, honesty, and tolerance. He highlights that skepticism's challenge to established theories has historically driven scientific progress and encourages others to question and wonder.

Article: "Uskotko ufoihin?" ("Do You Believe in UFOs?")

This section presents a dialogue illustrating the common perception of skeptics. A dogmatic person asks a skeptic if they believe in UFOs. The skeptic replies, "Of course I believe," which surprises the dogmatic person. The skeptic then clarifies that their belief stems from the fact that "Unidentified Flying Object" means something not yet identified, and that they have personally mistaken a bee for a fly due to fleeting observations. The dogmatic person concludes that discussion is impossible with such a person, highlighting the misunderstanding of skepticism as outright denial.

Article: Toimitukselta (From the Editors)

This section discusses Skepsis ry's 1996 "Huuhaa!" award. The award was given to Kirjayhtymä for publishing Anja Rautajoki's book "Terapeuttinen kosketus" (Therapeutic Touch). The editors express surprise that the media did not give more attention to this award, which criticizes the book for promoting a pseudoscientific healing method within healthcare. The book is linked to the work of Rosemary Rizzo Parse, whose methods are reportedly used in training healthcare professionals. The editors note that some educational institutions were considering using Rautajoki's book for courses. They also mention that Kirjayhtymä encouraged universities to investigate these healing methods. The article quotes Marita Paunonen, a professor of nursing science, and Marja Sihvonen, a professor of general practice and primary healthcare, who both distance themselves from such methods and advocate for a strong scientific response if they were to be implemented in healthcare.

The section also looks forward to Skepsis ry's 10th anniversary in the spring, announcing plans for more substantial information events, including a winter seminar on the use of quantum physics paradigms in pseudoscientific explanations and a summer seminar with potential international guests. It also mentions upcoming public events listed in the "Upcoming Events" section.

Section: Yhdistys toimii (The Association at Work)

This section details the awards given by Skepsis ry. The "Huuhaa!" award, for pseudoscience, was presented to Kirjayhtymä for Anja Rautajoki's book "Terapeuttinen kosketus." This book is criticized for presenting a pseudoscientific healing method as professional literature for healthcare workers. Previously, Skepsis had awarded the "Huuhaa!" prize to WSOY for distributing literature that marketed fringe science.

The "Sokrates" award, given for the second time, was presented to Ursa, a Finnish astronomical society celebrating its 75th anniversary. Skepsis recognized Ursa for significantly increasing public interest in a scientific worldview. Ursa had also published "Paholaisen asian ajaja" (The Devil's Advocate), a book by Skepsis. Seppo Linnaluoto, the executive director of Ursa, accepted the award.

The section also announces a renewed challenge: Skepsis offers a 10,000 markka prize for anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions. Additionally, they offer a "humanoid stipend" of the same amount for a humanoid that can present itself and provide DNA samples. The article mentions a bet with Dr. Rauni-Leena Luukanen-Kilde, an expert on humanoids, regarding the public appearance of humanoids by 1998.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the defense of scientific rationality against pseudoscience, the philosophical underpinnings of skepticism, and the importance of critical thinking. Skepsis ry positions itself as a guardian against irrational beliefs and unscientific claims, using awards like "Huuhaa!" to highlight problematic content and "Sokrates" to commend the promotion of science. The magazine's stance is clearly pro-science, emphasizing empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and intellectual honesty. It advocates for a skeptical approach not as a denial of reality, but as a method for rigorous inquiry and a safeguard against dogma and misinformation. The issue consistently promotes the idea that questioning and critical examination are vital for cultural and scientific progress.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 4/96, focuses on the intersection of science, pseudoscience, and public perception, particularly within the fields of healthcare and parapsychology. It features two main awards given by the organization Skepsis ry: the Sokrates Prize for promoting scientific understanding and the "Huuhaa Prize" for promoting pseudoscientific ideas.

Sokrates Prize Awarded to Ursa

The primary article on the cover and pages 1-2 announces that Skepsis ry has awarded the 1996 Sokrates Prize to the astronomical association Ursa. This award recognizes Ursa's 75 years of dedication to popularizing science and fostering amateur astronomy, thereby significantly increasing public interest in a scientific worldview. Ursa's contributions include publishing books on UFOs and critical examinations of fringe topics, as well as making Finnish astronomical literature internationally accessible. The textbook 'Tähtitieteen perusteet' (Fundamentals of Astronomy) has been translated into English and German and has reached its third printing in English, a rare achievement for a Finnish scientific book.

Huuhaa Prize and Criticism of 'Therapeutic Touch'

Pages 2-7 detail the "Huuhaa Prize" awarded to Kirjayhtymä, a publisher, for releasing Anja Rautajoki's book 'Terapeuttinen kosketus' (Therapeutic Touch). Skepsis argues that by publishing such literature in its Studia series, which is intended for social and healthcare professionals, Kirjayhtymä blurs the distinction between scientific and pseudoscientific material. The book is described as promoting a blend of alternative therapies including energy fields, crystal therapy, telepathy, and concepts from "New Age" thinking. Skepsis criticizes the book for presenting these as widely accepted methods, even suggesting they could speed up bone healing.

Expert Critique from Nursing Science

Professor Marita Paunonen from the University of Tampere's Department of Nursing Science provides a strong critique. She commends Skepsis for addressing the issue of pseudoscientific ideas infiltrating healthcare. Paunonen notes that while the book claims 'Therapeutic Touch' is a widely accepted method, it lacks scientific grounding. She highlights that the book's concepts are not part of mainstream nursing science education in Finland, which relies on robust theoretical and scientific foundations. The professor expresses concern that the uncritical acceptance of such therapies by some healthcare professionals could erode the credibility of the entire field. She also points out issues with the quality control of academic and professional literature, where students might be encouraged to use pseudoscientific sources for their theses.

Publisher's Response

Kirjayhtymä responds to the Huuhaa Prize by stating that their priority is the patient's well-being and sense of comfort, rather than Skepsis's "peace of mind." They acknowledge that 'Therapeutic Touch' is a complementary therapy and that their goal is to facilitate discussion and research into such methods, even if controversial. They emphasize that the book states the therapy does not replace conventional medical care but complements it.

Further Critiques of Alternative Therapies

Professor Paunonen further elaborates on the lack of scientific basis for concepts like "energy fields" and "energy exchange" in nursing science. She contrasts the rigorous, internationally recognized standards of Finnish nursing science with the pseudoscientific claims found in some literature, citing the work of theorists like Martha Rogers and Rosemarie Rizzo Parse. Paunonen argues that Parse's holistic approach, while superficially appealing, is not new and is often marketed heavily, leading to its adoption in some Finnish educational institutions. She stresses that Finnish nursing science focuses on evidence-based practice and research, not on unverified therapies.

Kirlian Photography Conference

Pages 8-9 report on a conference on Kirlian photography and related fringe topics. The author, Lauri Gröhn, expresses disappointment at the lack of practical, scientific applications for Kirlian photography presented at the event. He criticizes the high cost of attendance and the reliance on pseudoscientific explanations, such as "biofotons" and "life energy," to interpret the images. Speakers discussed concepts like "auras," "life force," and "morphogenetic fields," often referencing figures like Sheldrake and Steiner. The author notes the uncritical acceptance of these ideas by many attendees, contrasting it with the scientific skepticism he advocates.

Philosophical Inquiry into Science and Reality

Pages 10-11 feature an article by Sami Pihlström titled "Does Science Study Reality?" This philosophical piece explores the relationship between scientific inquiry and the nature of reality. Pihlström discusses the concept of "MAAILMA" (the world) as an independent reality that scientific statements correspond to. He touches upon postmodernist skepticism regarding the existence of an objective reality independent of human perception and language. The article sets a more academic and philosophical tone, questioning the fundamental assumptions of scientific knowledge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for scientific rigor and critical thinking, particularly within the healthcare sector. Skepsis ry's awards highlight this stance: the Sokrates Prize celebrates scientific popularization, while the Huuhaa Prize serves to critique and expose pseudoscientific claims that infiltrate public discourse and professional fields. The magazine consistently challenges unsubstantiated claims, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices and the distinction between genuine scientific inquiry and pseudoscience. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting rationalism and skepticism against what it perceives as a growing trend of uncritical acceptance of unverified therapies and beliefs.

This issue of Skeptikko (4/96) explores various facets of skepticism, philosophy of science, and rationalism, with a particular focus on the Sokal affair, postmodernism's influence on academic discourse, and rationalist activities in India. The magazine features articles that critically examine the boundaries between science and pseudoscience, the role of philosophy in understanding reality, and the importance of critical thinking.

The Sokal Affair and Postmodernism

The issue delves into the controversial "Sokal affair," initiated by physicist Alan Sokal. Sokal submitted a deliberately flawed and pseudo-academic article titled "Transgressing the Boundaries: Towards a Transformative Hermeneutics of Quantum Gravity" to the academic journal *Social Text*. The article, filled with jargon and nonsensical arguments, was accepted and published, leading Sokal to reveal it as a hoax. The intent was to critique what Sokal perceived as the "academic left's" uncritical embrace of postmodernist ideas and their misuse of scientific terminology. The article "Tapaus Sokal eli elääkö Elvis?" by Juha Savolainen examines this event, highlighting how *Social Text*, a publication associated with postmodernist thought, fell for the hoax. Savolainen criticizes *Helsingin Sanomat* for misrepresenting the affair, particularly in its portrayal of Noam Chomsky and Eric Hobsbawm.

The discussion extends to the broader implications of postmodernism for science. The article "Postmodernismi" touches upon the critique of science by some postmodern thinkers, contrasting it with the naturalist approach championed by philosophers like W.V. Quine. It questions whether the rejection of objective truth and scientific methods by postmodernism leads to a form of relativism where "anything goes," and discusses the need for shared norms and principles even within a diverse "cultural fleet."

Philosophical Perspectives on Science

Several articles explore different philosophical stances on science. The concept of "naturalism," as advocated by W.V. Quine, is presented as a view that prioritizes natural sciences and rejects the idea of a "first philosophy" with privileged access to truth. Quine's "ship of knowledge" metaphor, where scientists continuously repair their vessel at sea without a safe harbor, is discussed. Hilary Putnam's interpretation of this metaphor is also explored, suggesting it can be extended to the entire cultural fleet, not just science.

The debate between scientific realism and anti-realism is touched upon, with the article "Postmodernismi" referencing Joseph Rouse's work, *Engaging Science*. Rouse, while a postmodern thinker, is presented as advocating for a more engaged and less dogmatic approach to science, integrating philosophy of science with cultural studies.

Skepticism and Rationalism in India

The article "Ihmeitä vastaan Intiassa" (Miracles against India) by Pekka Elo reports on the activities of rationalist and skeptic movements in India. It describes how Indian skeptics, like Premanand, actively debunk the claims of self-proclaimed miracle workers and fakirs. These skeptics use their own "tricks" and demonstrations to expose the mundane explanations behind seemingly supernatural feats, emphasizing that divine intervention is not required. The article highlights Premanand's efforts to educate the public, particularly young people, about basic science and critical thinking.

Prometheus Camps

"Elämää suuremmat Prometheus-leirit" (Life-larger Prometheus Camps) by Robert Brotherus introduces a Finnish initiative aimed at young people. These camps are designed to foster critical thinking, secular worldviews, and personal development. They provide a platform for discussions on various life-stance issues, including ethics, relationships, and societal challenges, encouraging participants to build their own worldviews rather than accepting pre-defined truths. The camps emphasize a warm and supportive atmosphere, encouraging physical closeness through games and songs, and concluding with a communal celebration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of knowledge claims, the demarcation between science and pseudoscience, the philosophical underpinnings of scientific inquiry, and the role of skepticism in society. The magazine's stance appears to be strongly in favor of rationalism, critical thinking, and evidence-based reasoning, actively challenging what it perceives as uncritical acceptance of pseudoscience, postmodernist jargon, and unfounded authority. The editorial implicitly advocates for intellectual honesty and rigorous debate, as exemplified by the critique of the Sokal affair and the promotion of rationalist activities.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, dated 4/96, features a range of articles covering skepticism, pseudoscience, and critical thinking. The content spans topics from youth camps and alternative medicine to discussions on evolution, ufology, and book reviews.

Prometheus Camps

The magazine highlights the organization and purpose of Prometheus camps, which are run by Prometheus-leirin tuki ry. These camps aim to provide traditional and experience-based knowledge to young people, with upcoming training sessions for future leaders. The organization is seeking over 70 volunteer adult leaders for the summer camps, emphasizing the rewarding nature of the experience.

Critiques of Alternative Medicine and Pseudoscience

Several articles delve into critiques of alternative medicine and pseudoscientific claims. Minister Sinikka Mönkäre's planned participation in a UFO conference, which she later cancelled due to public outcry, is discussed. The magazine also features a critical review of Helmut Kiene's book "Complementary Medicine vs. School Medicine," which is described as promoting antroposophy and lacking scientific rigor. The article argues that Kiene misrepresents scientific methodology and that antroposophical medicine is not a valid form of "complementary medicine."

Another piece scrutinizes a magazine's explanation of the Star of Bethlehem, deeming it "'Astronomical' nonsense" due to scientific inaccuracies in its description of planetary conjunctions.

Evolution vs. Creationism

The ongoing debate between evolution and creationism is addressed, with a report on Australian geologist Ian Plimer filing a lawsuit against a creationist organization. The article touches upon the legal battles and financial burdens faced by those who challenge creationist claims.

Ufology and Doomsday Prophecies

Seppo Hyrkäs's book "The Beginning of the End - The Paranoid Dictator of the Apocalypse" is reviewed. The book is characterized as a collection of satirical essays on doomsday prophecies and UFO beliefs, humorously critiquing various pseudoscientific phenomena.

Probability of Extraterrestrial Life

A discussion on the probability of intelligent life in the universe is presented, with contributions from Sami Bergholm and Hannu Karttunen. The article references Carl Sagan's Drake equation and Stephen J. Gould's views on evolution, concluding that while the exact probability is unknown, the existence of intelligent life is not a certainty.

Book Reviews and Event Announcements

The issue includes reviews of several books, including "The Beginning of the End" and "Complementary Medicine vs. School Medicine." It also announces upcoming events hosted by Skepsis ry, such as public lectures and their annual meeting, covering topics like brain activity, quantum physics, and everyday beliefs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, there is a consistent emphasis on critical thinking, scientific literacy, and the debunking of pseudoscience. The magazine actively promotes skepticism as a tool for navigating complex information and challenging unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and scientific methodology, often contrasting it with what is perceived as irrational or unscientific belief systems.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 4/96, is primarily a membership drive for Skepsis ry, a Finnish skeptical organization founded in 1987. The magazine provides detailed instructions and forms for individuals wishing to join the organization or subscribe to its publication.

Membership and Subscription Information

The main focus of the issue is the "JOIN SKEPSIS!" call to action. Potential members are instructed to send a completed application form or a copy to the organization's secretary, Anneli Aurejärvi, at her address in Vantaa, Finland, or via email. The membership fee is stated as 100 Finnish Marks (mk), which includes a subscription to the Skeptikko magazine. A reduced fee of 50 mk is available for those under 20 years old, requiring them to provide their birth date.

For those interested solely in the magazine, a subscription option is also available for 100 mk per year. The form can be adapted for this purpose by crossing out "jäsenhakemus" (membership application) and writing "tilaus" (subscription). Only the name and address are needed for a subscription.

The application form itself is comprehensive, requesting the applicant's name, profession and education, home address, workplace address, and email address. It also asks for details about the applicant's experience with topics related to Skepsis's field, any relevant publications, membership in other scientific societies, and specific interests, with the option to use additional paper if needed. A crucial part of the application is the declaration of acceptance of the association's statutes and principles.

The issue also highlights that the membership application form and subscription details are available online via Skepsis's website at `http://kyyppari.hkkk.fi/~k24030/skepsis.html`.

About Skepsis ry

Skepsis ry was founded in 1987 as an association for Finnish skeptics. Its operating principles are similar to those of the American CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), though Skepsis operates independently while collaborating with CSICOP and similar organizations.

The organization's statutes outline its purpose:

• To promote objective and unbiased scientific research into claims of paranormal phenomena, without prejudging their validity.
• To maintain a network of individuals interested in such research and to connect with similar communities domestically and internationally.
• To publish articles and books that investigate claims of paranormal phenomena, and to compile bibliographies of relevant publications.
• To organize meetings and conferences related to the field, and to engage in educational and informational activities.

Skepsis ry is explicitly stated to be politically, ideologically, and religiously non-aligned. The board of directors can approve applications from individuals and legally capable organizations that accept the association's principles.

Key Personnel and Contact Information

The issue lists the board of directors (hallitus) and the scientific advisory board (tieteellinen neuvottelukunta).

• Board of Directors:
• Ilpo V. Salmi (Chairman)
• Timo Kaitaro (Vice-Chairman)
• Anneli Aurejärvi (Secretary)
• Eero Joutsikoski
• Robert Brotherus
• Veijo Saano
• Jukka Vuori

For matters concerning membership, magazine subscriptions, and other association-related inquiries, members are directed to contact the secretary, Anneli Aurejärvi. Changes of address should be sent to Marko Vehkamäki, who maintains the address register, via email (`vehkamä@cc.helsinki.fi`) or phone (09-717 062).

Anneli Aurejärvi's contact details are provided again: Punalatvantie 20 C, 01350 VANTAA, phone: 09-851 4851, email: [email protected].

Skepsis ry is a member organization of the Federation of Finnish Learned Societies.

• General Contact Information for Skepsis ry:
• Phone service: 09-7227 0195
• Postal address: PL 483, 00101 HELSINKI
• Internet: `http://kyyppari.hkkk.fi/~k24030/skepsis.html`
• Bank connection: PSP 800011 - 465 302

Scientific Advisory Board: This board includes numerous academics and professors, such as Veijo Saano (Chairman), Nils Edelman, Kari Enqvist, 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, Anssi Saura, Raija Sollamo, 'lytti Sutela, Raimo Tuomela, Yrjö Vasari, Johan von Wright, and Risto Vuorinen.

Invitation to the Annual Meeting

The issue includes an invitation to Skepsis ry's statutory annual meeting. It is scheduled for Saturday, February 15th, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the University of Helsinki, Porthania building, hall P653, Yliopistonkatu 3, Helsinki.

The agenda for the meeting includes:

1. Opening of the meeting.
2. Election of a chairperson, secretary, and two minute-takers for the meeting.
3. Verification of the meeting's legality and quorum.
4. Approval of the meeting's agenda.
5. Review of the 1996 activity report, financial statement, and auditor's report.
6. Decision on approving the financial statement and granting discharge of liability to the board and other responsible parties.
7. Approval of the activity plan and budget for 1997.
8. Decision on the membership fee amount.
9. Election of the chairperson and board members.
10. Election of two auditors and two deputy auditors.
11. Information and other matters.
12. Closing of the meeting.

The board extends a "Welcome" to all attendees.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme in this issue is the promotion of Skepsis ry and its activities, with a strong emphasis on recruiting new members. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific skepticism and objective investigation of paranormal claims. The organization positions itself as an independent, non-aligned entity dedicated to research and education in this field. The detailed listing of board members and the scientific advisory board underscores the organization's commitment to academic rigor and credibility. The invitation to the annual meeting further reinforces the active and participatory nature of the association.