1998-1-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

This issue of Skeptikko (1/98, Numero 36), dated May 4, 1998, is published by Skepsis ry and focuses on critical examination of pseudoscientific claims and phenomena. The cover features an illustration of a human brain with labeled areas related to sensory and motor functions, and the lead article is titled "Akupunktio ja aivotutkimus" (Acupuncture and Brain Research).

Editorial: The Return of the X-Files

The editorial, "Salaisten kansioiden paluu" (The Return of the X-Files), written by Jukka Häkkinen, a psychology researcher and board member of Skepsis, addresses the increasing blurring of lines between fiction and fact, particularly in the United States, where shows like "The X-Files" present pseudoscientific theories as potentially real. Häkkinen expresses concern that media, driven by competition, may resort to sensationalism and uncritical reporting, making it difficult for the public to distinguish between fact and fiction. He argues that while entertainment is one thing, media that intentionally promotes pseudoscientific phenomena as factual needs to be challenged. He notes a slight positive development in the US where some shows have removed claims of being based on "real documented events" or added disclaimers about the controversial nature of the content. Häkkinen urges skeptics to actively monitor media, provide feedback on critical and misleading content, and acknowledges that this task is growing.

Articles

Acupuncture and Brain Research

"Akupunktio ja aivotutkimus" (Acupuncture and Brain Research) by Janne Sinkkonen and Jukka Häkkinen critically analyzes a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) in March 1998. The study claimed that stimulating acupuncture points on the leg affected brain areas related to sight, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The authors express skepticism about the study's methodology and conclusions. They point out that the study's results, showing activation in the visual cortex when a specific acupuncture point (VAl) on the leg was stimulated, are questionable. The article highlights several issues:

• Selective Reporting: The study focused on only one acupuncture point (VAl) and did not report results for other stimulated points (VA2, VA3, VA8) or for a control point on the big toe.
• Image Artifacts: The fMRI images primarily showed activation in the back of the brain (occipital lobe), which is responsible for vision. However, the authors suggest that the images might not have captured the entire brain, and the lack of 'noise' (indicating random activation) in the frontal areas might mean those areas were not measured at all.
• Data Analysis: The authors question the statistical methods used, particularly the way acceptance criteria for activation were applied, suggesting it might have been manipulated to favor the desired outcome. They also note that the control condition results were presented for only one subject, making comparison difficult.
• Movement Artifacts: The study did not adequately control for head movements during the fMRI scans, which can create false signals of brain activation, especially in the visual cortex.
• Subject Grouping: The researchers divided subjects into "yin" and "yang" groups based on whether their brain activity increased or decreased, a post-hoc categorization that lacks statistical justification and appears to be a way to reconcile contradictory results.

The article concludes that due to these methodological and reporting issues, the study's conclusions cannot be considered scientifically valid.

MRI Imaging: Revealing Brain Mechanisms

"MRI-kuvaus selvittää aivojen toimintamekanismeja" (MRI Imaging: Revealing Brain Mechanisms) by Janne Sinkkonen provides a technical explanation of how MRI and fMRI work. It describes MRI as a non-invasive imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body's internal structures. fMRI, a functional variant, measures changes in blood oxygen levels to infer brain activity. The article explains that fMRI can detect localized changes in brain activity within milliseconds, making it a powerful tool for neuroscience research, allowing scientists to correlate psychological phenomena with specific brain functions.

Magnetic Therapies Belong to Pseudoscience

"Magneettiterapiat kuuluvat uskomuslääkintään" (Magnetic Therapies Belong to Pseudoscience) by Sami Tetri traces the history and claims surrounding magnetic therapies. Tetri notes the resurgence of magnetic products, often marketed with exaggerated claims of health benefits. The article delves into the historical use of magnets, from ancient times (e.g., the discovery of magnetite by the shepherd Magnes) through the Middle Ages and Renaissance, where magnets were believed to cure various ailments like epilepsy, diarrhea, and baldness. It highlights the work of scientists like William Gilbert and Thomas Browne who critically examined magnetic claims. The article also discusses Franz Anton Mesmer and his theory of "animal magnetism," which, despite being debunked by the French Royal Academy of Sciences, laid groundwork for hypnosis and contributed to the popularization of magnetic healing practices. Tetri criticizes modern magnetic products sold in Finland, such as Bioflow, for being expensive and ineffective, citing examples of products claiming to reduce car fuel consumption and increase engine power.

On the Threshold of Fundamental Questions

"Perimmäisten kysymysten äärellä" (On the Threshold of Fundamental Questions) by Risto Selin is a more philosophical piece that touches upon the nature of reality, knowledge, and the challenges posed by pseudoscience. While the specific content is not fully detailed in the provided text, its placement suggests a broader reflection on skepticism and the search for truth.

Why is Skepticism Not Interesting to Women?

This article, by Marketta Ollikainen, explores potential reasons why skepticism might not appeal equally to women. The content is not detailed in the provided text, but it suggests a discussion on gender and attitudes towards critical thinking and scientific inquiry.

Science, Feminism, and Feminist Science

"Tiede, feminismi ja feministinen tiede" (Science, Feminism, and Feminist Science) by Marketta Ollikainen likely discusses the intersection of these fields, possibly examining how feminist perspectives influence scientific research and understanding, or how science is perceived within feminist discourse.

From the Editor

In "Toimitukselta" (From the Editor), Marketta Ollikainen addresses the ongoing debate within Skepsis about whether the organization should engage with religious topics. She acknowledges that some members believe religions are a form of pseudoscience that misleads people, while others feel it's outside Skepsis's scope. Ollikainen agrees that aspects like creationism and alleged miracles warrant skepticism but believes that directly confronting religions is not Skepsis's role, suggesting the Free Thought Association is better suited for that. She argues that "junk information" like astrology, graphology, and pseudomedicine is more pervasive and harmful, contributing to public ignorance and potentially leading to health risks. Ollikainen also touches upon the recent postmodern debate within Skepsis, noting that while some see it as relevant to combating pseudoscience infiltrating traditional science, others view it as internal "science wars." She concludes that Skepsis will focus on topics traditionally within its purview: critical examination of paranormal phenomena and their backgrounds. She also announces that Hannu Karttunen, the long-serving editor-in-chief, has stepped down due to work commitments but will remain on the editorial board. Ollikainen takes over as editor-in-chief, aiming to continue the magazine's work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, particularly in the fields of alternative medicine (acupuncture, magnetic therapies) and paranormal phenomena. The magazine strongly advocates for scientific rigor, evidence-based reasoning, and media literacy. The editorial stance is clearly pro-skepticism, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between science and pseudoscience, and holding media accountable for uncritical reporting. There is a notable concern about the spread of misinformation and its potential negative impact on public understanding and health. The issue also includes a brief discussion on the intersection of science and feminism, and a reflection on the role of skepticism in society, including its potential appeal across different demographics.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 1/98, is a Finnish magazine focused on critical thinking and skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims. The issue delves into the history and purported benefits of magnet therapy, critiques various alternative healing methods, and explores the relationship between feminism and skepticism.

Magnet Therapy: A History of Pseudoscience

The magazine traces the history of magnet therapy from the late 18th century, mentioning Elisha Perkins and his 'magnetic attractor' device patented in 1795, which claimed to draw out 'noxious electrical fluid'. It notes that despite opposition from medical societies, such devices gained popularity, leading to the 19th century being dubbed the 'era of electro-magnetic quackery'.

Pastors like Jacob Baker in the mid-19th century promoted theories of an 'ether' called 'nervous fluid' that could be manipulated by magnets to cure various ailments. Dr. C. J. Thacher, a prominent figure, used magnetic caps, vests, and insoles, claiming to cure all chronic diseases and blaming the medical establishment for suppressing magnetic therapies.

By the late 19th century, while electro-magnetic therapies were being accepted for some conditions, 'magnet therapy' remained controversial. Rigorous studies by experts like Professor Bertram Windle Mason and A. E. Kennelly, using magnets thousands of times stronger than the Earth's magnetic field, yielded no significant physiological effects, leading to a decline in medical endorsement.

In the early 20th century, electro-therapists were a legitimate specialty, but charlatans like Dr. Albert Abrahams exploited new technologies. His 'dynamizer' and 'oscilloclast' devices were based on unproven theories of electromagnetic frequencies.

Bioflow Bracelets: Modern Quackery

The article critically examines modern magnet therapy products, specifically the Bioflow bracelet, sold in Finland. The manufacturers claim these bracelets, using 'CRP-technology' (Central Reversity Polarity), can cure almost any illness by magnetizing hemoglobin molecules, thereby improving oxygen and nutrient transport and waste removal. The magazine debunks these claims, citing a physics analysis from Jyväskylä University which concludes that the energy involved in aligning hemoglobin molecules is negligible compared to thermal motion, rendering the claimed effects impossible.

Scientific Scrutiny vs. Pseudoscience

Several studies are discussed, highlighting the lack of evidence for magnet therapy's effectiveness. A study on magnetic shoe insoles for heel pain found no difference between insoles with magnets and those without. Research into magnetic devices for tinnitus was halted due to lack of results. While some positive results were published regarding Parkinson's disease and memory disorders, these were based on small sample sizes and often combined with conventional treatment.

The issue also touches upon the potential negative effects of electromagnetic fields, referencing studies that suggest a correlation between exposure to electromagnetic fields and increased risk of leukemia and childhood cancer. However, it cautions against drawing definitive conclusions due to confounding factors.

The Dangers of Unproven Treatments

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the dangers of pseudoscientific practices and alternative medicine. The article by Risto Selin criticizes the reliance on pseudoscience in decision-making, from personal relationships to professional choices, citing examples of astrology and graphology being used in hiring processes.

It highlights the financial aspect of pseudoscience, with significant amounts of money spent on unproven remedies and therapies. The article points to the rise of ufology as a pseudoscientific industry, often intertwined with entertainment but also presented as a serious field.

A case study details the tragic death of a diabetic child, Lauri Niemelä, whose parents were advised by an alternative healer, Ritva Tuulikki Rissanen, to discontinue insulin treatment. Rissanen was subsequently convicted for causing the child's death, yet she maintained her belief in her methods.

The article argues that while good intentions may drive some practitioners, the lack of scientific basis and validation makes these methods potentially harmful. It stresses the importance of evidence-based knowledge and criticizes the societal trend towards relativism, which can legitimize pseudoscientific claims.

Feminism and Skepticism

The article 'Why skepticism does not interest feminists?' by Marketta Ollikainen explores the perceived disconnect between feminism and skepticism. It notes that women are increasingly represented in academia but that this has not necessarily led to a rise in rational thinking. The author observes that women are disproportionately represented among adherents of pseudoscientific beliefs, and that skepticism organizations have a very low percentage of female members.

The article discusses a Skepsis event aimed at discussing 'feminism, science, and feminist science'. It notes the difficulty in finding feminist scholars willing to speak on the topic, with only one political scientist, Tuija Parvikko, eventually agreeing to present. Parvikko's talk provided an overview of feminist research but did not directly address whether feminism or feminist research fuels pseudoscientific thinking.

Conclusion

Skeptikko 1/98 concludes that while many pseudoscientific claims, particularly in alternative medicine, are driven by financial motives and lack scientific validation, they continue to thrive due to a societal acceptance of relativism and a lack of critical thinking. The magazine advocates for evidence-based knowledge and warns against the dangers of unproven therapies, urging a return to rational thought.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critique of pseudoscience, particularly magnet therapy and other alternative healing methods, and the examination of societal attitudes towards science and rationality. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk unproven claims and highlight the potential harms of pseudoscientific practices. The magazine also engages with social commentary, questioning the lack of engagement with skepticism within feminist circles and advocating for evidence-based decision-making in all aspects of life.

This issue of Skeptikko, titled 'Tiede, feminismi ja feministinen tiede' (Science, Feminism, and Feminist Science), delves into the complex relationship between feminist thought and scientific inquiry. The magazine explores the historical development of feminist science, its various theoretical strands, and its ongoing debates within academia and society.

Feminist Science: From Origins to Postmodernism

The article by Marketta Ollikainen traces the roots of feminist science back to the 1960s civil rights movement in the United States. It highlights the emergence of second-wave feminism, which identified patriarchal structures as the cause of women's subjugation. Radical feminists emphasized that all societal activities, including science, were gender-bound, necessitating new theories from a female perspective. Some believed research could directly change the world, while others saw feminist research as a theoretical guide for action, intrinsically linked to the political feminist movement.

Tuija Parvikko, a political scientist, is quoted extensively, explaining the evolution of feminist thought. Liberal feminists, emerging in the late 1960s and early 1970s, focused on gender equality through reforms and attitudinal education. Left-wing feminists sought to integrate women into Marxist research, emphasizing the value of unpaid labor. Initially, feminist research often operated under the assumption of a universal female experience, a notion that began to be dismantled in the 1990s.

The magazine discusses the rise of postmodern feminism, which has drawn criticism for allegedly allowing irrational interpretations by questioning established scientific understanding. Postmodern feminists, like Evelyn Fox Keller, aim to deconstruct science, arguing it is always tied to its creator and societal context. Contemporary feminist research, as described by Parvikko, is less about documenting women's status and more about changing scientific thought and its norms.

Anneli Anttonen characterizes the 1990s as a period of post-structuralist discourse in feminist research, challenging the concept of a universal female experience and emphasizing differences among women, including psychological ones. This perspective views the self as fragmented, not always rational or consistent.

Parvikko elaborates on the linguistic turn, where concepts like 'woman,' 'gender,' and 'femininity' are seen as socially constructed through discourse, with less emphasis on their material reality. Debates within feminist research often revolve around the meaning and application of the term 'woman' and the concept of gender.

Gender theories distinguish between biological and social gender, with social gender being a construct that can be altered. Gender theorists, however, argue that all dimensions of human existence, including biology, are in constant interaction.

Parvikko notes that feminist research, after 30 years of expansion, has diversified into numerous, sometimes conflicting, orientations. Despite this, the gender perspective has not significantly penetrated mainstream research in most disciplines, often remaining gender-neutral or 'masculine.' For feminist research to maintain credibility, it must break into mainstream scholarship.

Critiques and Challenges in Finnish Feminist Research

Parvikko expresses a need for critical evaluation within feminist research, noting a lack of critical discussion in Finland, where expressing dissent can easily lead to offense. She attributes this partly to the movement's political and societal roots, which can foster an 'us vs. them' mentality. The commitment to societal movements can also create credibility issues, as scientific research ideally strives for objectivity. Parvikko disagrees with the notion that research is inherently politics, though it can have political dimensions.

She points out the difficulty of maintaining distance when researching personally close topics, suggesting that much empirical feminist research, which analyzes personal experiences, can be seen as a form of therapy. Parvikko also criticizes a certain degree of nationalism in Finnish feminist research, where Nordic welfare states are presented as ideal places to live, potentially overlooking the experiences of women elsewhere.

The issue of nationalism is seen as discriminatory and hierarchical, a problem that should be addressed within feminist research. Parvikko suggests that many problems in feminist research stem from the growing pains of a new research direction, characterized by theoretical fragility and a lack of historical awareness. This historical deficit is often framed as a critique of mainstream academic disciplines.

Parvikko emphasizes that her critique is not intended to dismiss feminist research but to highlight current issues in the Finnish context, acknowledging that similar criticisms could be leveled at other disciplines.

She concludes by stating that the importance of classical education in universities should be rehabilitated, a sentiment she shared at an event organized by Skepsis ry.

Skeptical News and Events

The magazine includes several short news items:

• 'Teine Maailm' Launched in Tallinn: The Finnish Institute in Tallinn hosted the launch of the Estonian edition of the book 'Teine Maailm' (The Devil's Advocate), attended by Estonian skeptics and officials.
• 'Uskomuslääkinnän tukikonsertti' (Alternative Medicine Support Concert) a Flop: A concert organized by Jari Sillanpää to fund an issue of 'Minä Olen' magazine on alternative medicine failed financially, resulting in a loss of 100,000 marks. The organizer, Matti Sornikivi, intends to proceed with the publication despite the setback.
• Pigasus Awards for 1997: The James Randi Educational Foundation presented its annual awards. Michael Guillen of ABC-TV News received an award for the most absurd claim about paranormal phenomena. The National Institute of Health received an award for supporting research into useless and paranormal phenomena, particularly through its Office of Alternative Medicine.
• Angel Therapy at Adult Education Center: The Helsinki Adult Education Center offers a course on 'angel therapy,' teaching participants to connect with angelic energies through dance and meditation.
• Hannu Karttunen Receives Tieto-Finlandia Award: Skeptikko's long-time editor-in-chief, Hannu Karttunen, was awarded the Tieto-Finlandia prize for his book 'Vanhin tiede' (The Oldest Science).
• Kari Enqvist Receives Magnus Ehrnroot Prize: Kari Enqvist, vice-chairman of Skepsis and a docent in theoretical elementary particle physics and cosmology, received the Magnus Ehrnroot prize.

Skeptikko Mailing List and Online Presence

Ossi Pasanen, the administrator of the Skepsis mailing list, addresses issues of misuse and overcrowding. He clarifies that the list is intended for Skeptikko members to share information about skeptical events and topics, not for general chat or lengthy debates. He notes that the list's growth has led to problems with message volume and off-topic discussions. Pasanen suggests that Usenet newsgroups, like 'sfnet.keskustelu.rajatieteet' and 'sfnet.keskustelu.skeptismi,' are better suited for broader discussions.

He outlines the differences between mailing lists and newsgroups, emphasizing that newsgroups are more efficient for users to select and retrieve information. Pasanen also discusses the challenges of managing a large mailing list, including the potential for overflowing inboxes and the need for members to manage their subscriptions and address changes.

Skepsis is also seeking contributions for a new handbook that will explain basic concepts related to paranormal phenomena in both Finnish and English. The organization encourages members to submit clippings and materials for its archive.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and the need to challenge pseudoscience and unsubstantiated claims. The magazine highlights the ongoing debates within feminist theory and its intersection with science, advocating for rigorous academic standards and a move away from ideological biases. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, promoting rational inquiry and a critical examination of extraordinary claims, while also acknowledging the value of diverse perspectives within the skeptical community.

This issue of Skeptikko (4/97) is published by Skepsis ry, a Finnish skeptical organization. The magazine covers a range of topics related to skepticism, pseudoscience, and critical thinking.

Articles and Summaries

English Summary

Acupuncture and Brain Research:

This section discusses a study published in the PNAS journal by a Californian-Korean research group in March 1998. The study indicated that stimulating acupuncture points in the feet could affect brain areas responsible for visual stimuli processing. Researchers Janne Sinkkonen and Jukka Häkkinen critically analyze the study's claims, pointing out flaws in experimental design and methodology. They suggest that the report only presented positive correlations and did not adequately address the role of accidents in the findings.

Science, Feminism and Feministic Science:

Marketta Ollikainen writes about the criticism female research has faced for incorporating irrational interpretations, particularly from postmodern feminism. This perspective aims to deconstruct 'masculine science' and argues that science, including natural science, is tied to its author and society. The article mentions Tuija Parvikko's lecture on how newer feminist studies aim to change scientific norms and ways of thinking, not just highlight women's experiences.

Facing Fundamental Issues:

Risto Selin discusses the societal atmosphere where 'everything goes as long as it is interesting and extraordinary.' He notes that pseudo-science is increasingly accepted, and skeptics should actively comment on these issues. Selin also touches upon how people become fascinated by pseudo-science and how gradually acceptable views can form irrespective of their correctness.

Magnetic Therapies are in the Category of Belief Treatment:

Sami Tetri's article explores the resurgence of magnetic therapies. He notes that while claims of magnetic healing have existed for centuries, scientific studies have consistently failed to validate these effects. Tetri highlights the sale of expensive but ineffective magnetic products in Finland, which are claimed to reduce fuel consumption or increase motor efficiency.

Upcoming Events

Skepsis Spring 1998:

The final public event of Skepsis's spring season is a discussion on the current state of parapsychology on Wednesday, May 13th, at 6:00 PM at Tieteiden talo, Kirkkokatu 6, Helsinki. The event is free and open to the public. Participants include representatives from Finnish parapsychological societies and Skepsis. For more information, contact Ilpo V. Salmi.

Summer Excursion in June:

Skepsis is organizing its traditional summer excursion from June 12-14. This year's theme is a journey into the "shadows of history," including a visit to the 'Ancient Cultures' exhibition at the Heureka Science Centre in Vantaa and to Suomenlinna, which is celebrating its 250th anniversary. The excursion includes a gathering at Heureka on Saturday, June 12th, followed by an evening social event. On Sunday, June 13th, participants will travel by ferry to Suomenlinna to explore the fortress and discuss skeptical participation in panels. Accommodation can be arranged for those coming from outside the Helsinki region. Inquiries and registrations should be directed to Ilpo V. Salmi.

Skeptikko World Congress in Heidelberg:

The second Skeptikko world congress is scheduled for July 23-26, 1998, in Heidelberg, Germany. This congress is organized by the American skeptical organization CSICOP in collaboration with ECSO (European Council of Scientific Organizations) and the German skeptical organization GWUP. For congress inquiries, contact Barry Karr at CSICOP.

Skepsis Organization Information

Membership:

Information is provided on how to join Skepsis ry. The annual membership fee is 100 Finnish marks (50 marks for those under 20). The fee includes a subscription to Skeptikko magazine. A membership application form is available in the magazine and on the Skepsis website (http://www.skepsis.fi).

Magazine Subscription:

It is possible to subscribe to Skeptikko magazine without becoming a member for 100 marks per year. The application form can be adapted for this purpose by crossing out 'membership application' and writing 'subscription'.

Skepsis Board and Committees:

The issue lists the members of the Skepsis ry board, including Ilpo V. Salmi as chairman and Kari Enqvist as vice-chairman. It also lists the members of the scientific advisory board, featuring numerous professors and docents.

Contact Information:

Contact details for Skepsis ry are provided, including a phone service, postal address, website, email address, and bank details. Regional contact persons are also listed for various cities in Finland.

Purpose and Principles of Skepsis:

Skepsis ry, founded in 1987, aims to promote objective and unbiased scientific research into paranormal claims without prior judgment. It seeks to maintain a network of interested individuals, publish research-related articles and books, and organize meetings and conferences. The organization is politically, ideologically, and religiously independent. Membership is open to individuals and organizations who accept its principles.

Book Review

Paholaisen asianajajan paluu (The Devil's Advocate Returns):

This section reviews the book "Paholaisen asianajajan paluu," described as a guide for skeptics. It is presented as a response to the growing market for astrology, UFO beliefs, and alternative medicine. The book features Finnish scientists critically examining superstition and quackery. This new edition, published by Ursa, follows the successful first edition from 1989. The book costs 149 Finnish marks (208 pages), with a special price of 120 marks for Ursa and Skepsis members. The Estonian edition, "Teine Maailm," is available from the Viro-Instituutti in Helsinki for 100 marks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical and scientific approach to claims of the paranormal and pseudoscientific phenomena. It encourages critical thinking, objective research, and the dissemination of evidence-based information. The editorial stance is clearly against superstition, pseudoscience, and unsubstantiated beliefs, advocating for rational inquiry and scientific understanding.