1998-3-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 3/98 (Issue 38)
Date: 1998
Publisher: Skepsis Ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish skeptical magazine, delves into a variety of topics, critically examining claims related to the paranormal, psychology, and human behavior. The cover prominently features a moon image, hinting at the lead article's theme.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The magazine is published by Skepsis Ry, with its editorial office located in Helsinki. The editorial board includes Hannu Karttunen, Marjaana Lindeman, and Jan Rydman. Marketta Ollikainen serves as the editor-in-chief.

Lead Article: Does Moon Madness Strike?

The main article, "Iskeekö kuuhulluus?" (Does Moon Madness Strike?) by Jukka Häkkinen and Janne Sinkkonen, investigates the popular belief that the full moon influences human behavior, leading to increased aggression, crime, or general 'lunacy'. The authors critically examine the proposed explanations, such as the 'biological tide' theory, and find them lacking scientific basis. They argue that while cyclical behavioral patterns might exist, the connection to the moon is not supported by statistical evidence. The article suggests that perceived links are often illusory, stemming from confirmation bias and misinterpretation of data, particularly when using methods like moving averages without proper statistical validation. The authors conclude that 'moon madness' is largely a myth, reinforced by anecdotal evidence and selective attention.

Other Articles and Features

• Does Memory Deceive? (Pettääkö muisti?): This article likely explores the fallibility of human memory and how it can be influenced or distorted.
• Why Does Ruby Give Courage? (Miksi rubiini antaa rohkeutta?): This piece investigates the purported psychological effects of rubies, questioning the basis for such beliefs.
• Ganzfeld Experiments: Robust Anomaly? (Ganzfeld-kokeet – robusti anomalia?): Edgar Wunder discusses the Ganzfeld experiments, a technique used in parapsychology to test extrasensory perception (ESP), and examines whether the results represent a genuine anomaly.
• Mystical Jung (Mystinen Jung): Petteri Pietikäinen critically analyzes the work of Carl Gustav Jung, describing his analytical psychology as a pseudoscientific system that mystified science and created a therapeutic belief system. The article highlights Jung's focus on the unconscious, archetypes, and his departure from Freudian psychoanalysis, suggesting his ideas were rooted in historical and philosophical traditions rather than empirical science.
• Authentic Therapy (Todentuntuista terapiaa): Marketta Ollikainen likely discusses various forms of therapy, possibly contrasting scientifically validated methods with more dubious or pseudoscientific approaches.
• Report from the Skeptikko II World Conference (Raportti Skeptikkojen II maailmankonferenssista): Marketta Ollikainen provides an account of the Skeptikko conference, detailing discussions and presentations related to skepticism and critical thinking.
• Nostradamus – The Man Who Predicted Everything (Nostradamus – mies joka ennusti kaiken): Risto Selin examines the prophecies of Nostradamus, likely debunking claims of his predictive accuracy.
• Environmental Art in Sipoo (Ympäristötaidetta Sipoossa): Jukka Häkkinen reports on environmental art installations.
• Book Reviews (Kirjat), Discussions (Keskustelua), Upcoming Events (Tulevia tapahtumia), and Shorts (Lyhyet) sections provide additional content, including book recommendations, reader feedback, and news items.

Editor's Note

In the "Toimitukselta" (From the Editor) section, Marketta Ollikainen reflects on her experiences engaging with individuals who hold pseudoscientific beliefs, such as those promoting alternative medicine or paranormal phenomena. She discusses the challenges of communicating with people who may misinterpret scientific literature and the importance of critical thinking. Ollikainen also mentions the establishment of Jarkko Kari's research network for paranormal and spiritual phenomena (PATU) and reiterates Skepsis's mission to promote objective scientific research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, the importance of scientific methodology and critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscientific beliefs. The magazine's stance is clearly pro-science, aiming to educate readers and counter misinformation. The editorial emphasizes the need for evidence-based reasoning and highlights the dangers of uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims, particularly in areas like psychology and health.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/98, features a cover story titled "Petollinen muisti" (Deceptive Memory) and includes articles on C.G. Jung's psychological theories and the purported healing powers of crystals.

Deceptive Memory: The Unreliability of Human Recollection

The main article, "Deceptive Memory," by Marketta Ollikainen, explores the phenomenon of false memories, particularly in the context of therapeutic settings. It highlights the work of Professor Elisabeth Loftus, who has extensively researched how memories, especially those of childhood trauma, can be inaccurately recalled or even implanted through therapeutic suggestion. The article discusses legal cases in the United States where therapists have faced substantial lawsuits for allegedly implanting false memories in patients, leading to wrongful accusations against parents. Loftus's research indicates that a significant percentage of individuals can be led to believe in fabricated events, even when provided with fabricated stories. The article also touches upon the constructive nature of memory, where recollections are influenced by existing knowledge, expectations, and subsequent interpretations. It notes that while some memories might be vivid and emotionally charged, their accuracy is not guaranteed. The piece references research by Virpi Kalakoski and Pertti Saariluoma, who used chess positions to demonstrate how people selectively recall information, focusing on relevant details while overlooking others. The article concludes that memory is highly susceptible to error, and what we recall may not always reflect reality.

C.G. Jung: Mythologizing the Psyche

Another significant article critically examines the work of C.G. Jung. It posits that Jung's lifelong pursuit was to understand the human psyche, but his approach, particularly in Analytical Psychology, is characterized as a form of mythologizing rather than clear scientific analysis. The author suggests that Jung's theories, while influential, often stray into the realm of pseudoscience, embracing concepts like the collective unconscious, archetypes, and even paranormal phenomena such as synchronicity and the influence of unseen forces. The article points out that Jung himself claimed to perceive a 'transcendent boundary' beyond ordinary human perception, contributing to the mystical aura surrounding his work. The author criticizes the Jungian movement for its tendency to avoid critical thinking and its embrace of esoteric beliefs, linking it to New Age movements. The article also references Jung's belief in the spiritual reality of fantasy worlds and superstitious notions, as well as his exploration of I Ching and the significance of dreams for precognition. The piece notes the establishment of Jung Institutes worldwide and the global spread of Jungian analysis, particularly in Russia.

Crystal Therapy: Pseudoscience or Genuine Healing?

The issue also features an article by Jouko Aho, "Why Does a Ruby Give Courage?," which scrutinizes the claims of crystal therapy. Aho, who has a background in psychology and gemology, approaches the topic from a scientific perspective. He contrasts the scientific study of gemstones, which focuses on their physical and chemical properties, with the esoteric claims made by crystal therapists. The article explains that gems like rubies and sapphires are scientifically classified as corundum, with their distinct colors arising from trace impurities. Despite their identical mineral composition, crystal therapists attribute different healing properties to them, such as rubies aiding heart conditions and sapphires alleviating stress. Aho argues that these claims lack scientific basis and are likely due to placebo effects or a misunderstanding of scientific concepts. He cites examples of crystal therapists making unsubstantiated claims about energy fields and vibrational frequencies. The article highlights a case where a man believed a ruby in his pocket cured his heart condition, questioning the ethical responsibility of therapists in such situations. Aho concludes that while the cultural fascination with myths and legends surrounding gemstones is understandable, using them as medical treatments for serious health issues is unfounded and potentially harmful.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko strongly advocates for critical thinking and scientific evidence. The articles collectively challenge pseudoscientific claims in psychology, esotericism, and alternative medicine. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk unsubstantiated beliefs and promote a rational understanding of phenomena. The magazine emphasizes the importance of empirical research and scientific methodology in understanding human behavior, memory, and the natural world, while cautioning against the dangers of unverified therapeutic claims and mystical interpretations.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/98, features a cover story titled "Ganzfeld-kokeet - robusti anomalia?" (Ganzfeld Experiments - Robust Anomaly?) by Edgar Wunder. The magazine explores various topics related to pseudoscience, parapsychology, and critical thinking.

Ganzfeld Experiments - Robust Anomaly?

Edgar Wunder's article critically examines the Ganzfeld experiments, which were proposed as evidence for telepathy. He references a recent report by British researchers Richard Wiseman and Julie Milton, which concluded that the experiment results did not deviate from chance expectations. The article explains the Ganzfeld procedure, where a 'receiver' is placed in a state of sensory deprivation while a 'sender' attempts to transmit information (e.g., an image). The receiver then describes their thoughts, and later tries to identify the target image from a selection. While early Ganzfeld experiments, notably those by Charles Honorton, reported success rates significantly above the expected 25%, psychologist Ray Hyman identified numerous methodological flaws in these studies. Honorton later conducted 'autoganzfeld' experiments, aiming to eliminate these flaws, and reported results still significantly above chance. However, a later meta-analysis by Milton and Wiseman of studies conducted after 1987 found no significant effect, suggesting that the phenomenon might have disappeared or that earlier studies were flawed. The article discusses potential explanations for the discrepancy, including sensory leakage in earlier experiments or the influence of participant characteristics that were not controlled in later studies.

Nostradamus - The Man Who Predicted Everything?

S. Albert Kivinen discusses Michel de Nostradamus, the 16th-century astrologer and seer. Kivinen notes that Nostradamus's prophecies are often vague and open to interpretation, leading to sensationalized claims, particularly online. He debunks a widely circulated interpretation linking a quatrain to the Monica Lewinsky scandal, showing how the original text differs significantly and how commentators have manipulated translations. The article highlights that while Nostradamus did make more specific predictions, these have often proven to be inaccurate. The internet is identified as a significant factor in the spread of these interpretations.

Environmental Art in Sipoo

Jukka Häkkinen reports on crop circles that appeared in the fields of Sipoo, Finland. Skepsis, represented by Seppo Linnaluoto, investigated the phenomenon. The article describes the crop circles as neatly arranged patterns, not flattened but folded stalks, suggesting a human origin. While some theories attribute crop circles to extraterrestrial activity or natural phenomena, the article leans towards human creation, citing examples of artists who create such designs. The investigation in Sipoo found evidence of a clear path leading to the circle and signs of human activity, such as footprints and worn areas in the center, indicating the use of a rope and board method. The landowner had filed a police report for damage to the field.

Doomsday Prophecies

Marketta Ollikainen covers the Skeptikko II World Conference in Heidelberg, Germany, which focused on end-of-the-millennium prophecies and future threats. The conference addressed both pseudoscientific doomsday scenarios and real threats like asteroid impacts and climate change. Speakers included astronomer Alan Hale, psychologist Elisabeth Loftus, and physicist Jean Bricmont. Hartmut Zinser discussed the psychological appeal of doomsday cults, suggesting they offer answers to personal crises and that the 'apocalypse' often arises when the group itself faces a crisis. The article also mentions the Heaven's Gate cult's mass suicide, linked to the Hale-Bopp comet. Tim Trachet and Jean Meeus's calculations on planetary alignments for the year 2000 are presented, with the conclusion that these alignments do not pose a threat. The article contrasts these with the more plausible threats of comets and asteroids, as highlighted by James McGaha. Neurophysiologist William H. Calvin predicts that the Earth might enter an ice age rather than just warming due to climate change, suggesting that rapid climate shifts are possible. The section also touches upon alternative medicine, with Professor Willem Betz expressing concern about EU politicians' increasing openness to unproven therapies. Professor Wallace Sampson criticizes studies supporting alternative medicine for methodological flaws. The article also notes that chiropractic care, often cited as an alternative treatment, is one of the most expensive medical procedures in the US.

UFO Report Confuses Media

This section discusses a UFO report that gained media attention. Kendrick Frazier of Skeptical Inquirer points out that the report was not comparable to the Condon Report and that the panel consisted mainly of pro-UFO scientists who heard testimony from only eight UFO believers. The report itself concluded that evidence for extraterrestrial spacecraft was minimal and did not support the existence of unknown physical processes or alien technology, though it suggested further research into unexplained phenomena. Frazier expresses surprise at the media hype surrounding the report.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, critically examining claims of paranormal phenomena, pseudoscientific theories, and unproven medical practices. It emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology, evidence-based reasoning, and critical thinking. The articles aim to debunk sensationalized claims, provide rational explanations for phenomena, and inform readers about the scientific consensus on various topics. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific rigor and against the uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, dated 3/98, focuses on the pervasive influence of New Age ideology and pseudoscience in various aspects of society, particularly in education and alternative therapies. The magazine features critical analyses of these phenomena from a skeptical perspective.

New Age Pedagogy

Historian Herman de Tollenaere discusses how New Age beliefs, rooted in theosophy and anthroposophy, have infiltrated educational systems worldwide. He highlights the establishment of schools by movements like the Theosophical Society and Anthroposophy, which promote concepts such as astrology and the idea of an 'Aquarian Age.' Tollenaere points out that these pseudoscientific beliefs are often integrated into curricula, sometimes even receiving public funding.

Anti-Science Sentiments and Postmodernism

Paul Kurtz, Chairman of CSICOP, expresses concern over the growing anti-science sentiment globally. He links this trend to postmodernism, which he argues blurs the lines between scientific thinking and pseudoscientific beliefs. Science journalist Lewis Vaughn compares radical postmodernism to religious dogma, stating that it posits that believing something makes it true, leading to intolerance despite claims of tolerance. Physicist Jean Briemont and his colleague Alan Sokal are mentioned for their critique of postmodern intellectualism, particularly in France.

The Perceived Efficacy of Alternative Therapies

Psychologist Barry Beyerstein critically examines why alternative therapies often appear effective. He argues that people often confuse 'disease' (a medical condition) with 'illness' (the subjective experience of sickness). Beyerstein outlines ten reasons why these therapies seem to work, including the placebo effect, misdiagnosis, spontaneous remission, and psychological factors such as self-deception and wishful thinking. He emphasizes the need for controlled clinical trials to determine the actual efficacy of these treatments.

Book Reviews and Discussions

The issue includes a review of Michael Shermer's book 'Why People Believe Weird Things: Pseudoscience, Superstition, and Other Confusions of Our Time.' Shermer, a psychologist and founder of the Skeptics Society, explores the psychological and social reasons behind people's adherence to pseudoscientific and superstitious beliefs. The review praises the book for its comprehensive and engaging analysis.

Another section reviews 'Sapere aude! Mitä on valistus?' (What is Enlightenment?), a book that explores the concept of Enlightenment through essays by various thinkers, including Kant, Hume, Foucault, and Habermas. The reviewer suggests that a Finnish translation of Sokal and Briemont's 'Intellectual Impostures' would be a valuable addition to the discourse on Enlightenment.

A 'Discussion' section features a humorous exchange about common mysteries and the establishment of a research network for paranormal and spiritual phenomena in Finland, called PATU (Paranormaalin ja Henkisyyden Tieteellinen Tutkijaverkosto). The magazine also announces upcoming events and meetings related to skepticism in Finland.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of pseudoscience, the New Age movement, and alternative therapies. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for scientific reasoning, evidence-based practices, and a critical approach to unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to promote scientific literacy and combat the spread of irrational beliefs.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 3/98
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko magazine delves into various topics related to pseudoscience, health claims, and unusual phenomena, offering a critical and skeptical perspective.

Antioxidant Pills Ineffective

The lead article, "Antioksidanttipillerit eivät tehoa" (Antioxidant Pills Are Ineffective), reports on a comprehensive study by the Swedish National Agency for the Evaluation of Medical Methods (SBU). The study, which reviewed scientific research published between 1989 and 1996, found no scientific evidence that antioxidant supplements prevent diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, eye conditions, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, or cancer. While a diet rich in antioxidants, particularly fruits and vegetables, may have a preventive effect, SBU found no proof that increasing antioxidant intake through supplements, beyond what a balanced diet provides, offers any health benefits. Furthermore, the article highlights that in some controlled studies, pure beta-carotene and high doses of vitamin E supplementation led to serious adverse effects in smokers.

The article also mentions Dr. Kaarlo Jaakkola, an 'antioxidant doctor,' who allegedly made misleading claims about his treatments and faced professional sanctions in Sweden, including the loss of his medical license due to negligence, unsubstantiated claims, and conducting unnecessarily expensive laboratory tests. Despite these issues, Jaakkola was reportedly allowed to continue practicing in Finland, though he received a warning from the Finnish authorities.

Antioxidants are substances that prevent the formation of free radicals in the body, which are believed to contribute to various diseases like atherosclerosis and cancer. Many vitamins, trace elements, and flavonoids possess antioxidant properties. The human body primarily obtains its necessary antioxidants from a normal, varied diet.

Steiner School Planned for Kuusankoski

A brief report indicates that plans are underway to establish a Steiner school in Kuusankoski. A group of families from the Pohjois-Kymenlaakso region, whose children have attended the Aamurusko Steiner kindergarten for about twenty years, are behind the initiative. A public discussion and information session was scheduled to take place at the Kuusankoskitalo.

'Ice Man' Used Acupuncture

An article titled "Nuijamies turvautui akupunktioon" (Ice Man Turned to Acupuncture) discusses findings related to the Ötzi the Iceman, a prehistoric mummy found in the Alps. According to Turun Sanomat, Ötzi may have treated his joint and intestinal problems with acupuncture. This theory is based on tattoos found on his skin, which reportedly marked specific acupuncture points. However, the article notes that this information was relayed by the head of the German Acupuncture Association, Frank Bahr, and the chairman of the Austrian Acupuncture Association, Leopold Dorfer, casting some doubt on the reliability of the report.

Pope Bans Astrology

Pope John Paul II, in a sermon in early September, declared that humans do not need horoscopes or magical predictions to define their problems. The Catholic Church is set to release a book titled 'Faith and Reason' which will draw a clear distinction between astrology and the New Age movement. The article notes that the Vatican's shift is partly due to concerns that mystical movements are attracting followers away from the Catholic Church in Italy. It mentions that horoscopes are broadcast on state-owned radio in Italy, and the country has a significant number of self-proclaimed psychics compared to priests, leading to a perceived crisis for the clergy.

Mercury in Tibetan Pills

Tests conducted by the Finnish Customs Laboratory revealed that a significant portion of the pills sold by Tibetan 'healers' at the Museum of Art and Design contained dangerous levels of toxic mercury. Two-thirds of the samples tested contained mercury, with concentrations as high as 8,000-9,000 milligrams per kilogram. The article mentions that these pills were reportedly promoted as treatments for various ailments, and some contained mercury as an ingredient, although this was not always disclosed on the packaging.

Ig Nobel Prizes Awarded Again

The article "Ig-Nobelit jälleen jaossa" (Ig Nobel Prizes Awarded Again) covers the eighth annual Ig Nobel Prize ceremony, which celebrates research that "cannot, or should not, be reproduced." The event, held at Harvard University, honored several individuals for their unusual or impractical scientific endeavors. Notable recipients included:

• Technical Sciences: Troy Hurtubise for developing a bear-proof suit.
• Biology: Peter Fong for his work on enhancing the sexual activity of clams using Prozac.
• Chemistry: Jacques Benveniste for demonstrating that water has memory and can transmit this memory via telephone.
• Physics: Deepak Chopra for applying quantum physics to the pursuit of wealth and well-being.
• Medicine: Caroline Mills and colleagues for a report on a man who smelled putrid for five years.
• Statistics: Jerald Bain and Kelly Siminoski for researching the correlation between a man's height, penis length, and foot size.
• Literature: Mara Sidoli for a report on a boy who farted when faced with something terrifying.
• Public Health Education: Dolores Krieger for her concept of Therapeutic Touch, a healing method involving 'energy fields'.
• Peace Prize: Awarded ironically to Indian Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for their aggressive efforts to detonate atomic bombs peacefully.

The Ig Nobel Prizes were founded by the science satire publication 'Annals of Improbable Research' in collaboration with Harvard University.

Roswell Doing Well

The town of Roswell, New Mexico, has become a significant tourist attraction due to the alleged UFO crash in 1947. The article states that tourism accounts for at least a quarter of the town's income. The 50th anniversary of the incident in the previous year drew around 40,000 tourists, resulting in extensive media coverage. The town now boasts UFO museums, with one having attracted 180,000 visitors. The museums reportedly present a critical perspective on UFO phenomena. Seminars on abduction and government cover-ups are regularly held. A memorial is planned for the crash site, though its exact location is debated. The article notes that many residents approach the UFO phenomenon with a sense of humor, as exemplified by a local tourism advertisement parodying the movie 'Men in Black'.

English Summary Articles

This section provides summaries of articles in English:

• "Getting Lunatic?" by Jukka Häkkinen and Janne Sinkkonen: This article disputes the common belief that lunacy is linked to the full moon, arguing that such correlations are misinterpreted and that 'lunacy' is a myth encouraged by selective observation.

• "C.G. Jung and the Mythology of the Subconscious" by Petteri Pietikäinen: The author describes C.G. Jung's 'analytical psychology' as a pseudoscience that spiritualized biology and created a belief system exploited by New Age movements. It is characterized as a therapeutic system that avoids critical inquiry and emphasizes the 'mystification of life'.

• "Why Does the Ruby Give Courage?" by Jouko Aho: This article questions the claims of gemstone therapy, specifically the purported courage-inducing properties of rubies and stress-alleviating properties of sapphires. It points out that both stones are corundum and share similar physical and optical properties, making their differing effects questionable.

• "Deceitful Memory" by Marketta Ollikainen: This piece explores the unreliability of human memory. Psychologist Virpi Kalakoski explains that it is difficult to distinguish between real and false recollections because both feel authentic. Memory reconstruction involves integrating past experiences, learned information, and subsequent thoughts, making it prone to errors and distortions.

Skepsis Organization Information

The magazine includes information about Skepsis ry, a Finnish skeptical society founded in 1987. It outlines the organization's purpose, which includes promoting objective scientific research into paranormal claims, maintaining a network of interested individuals, publishing articles and bibliographies on paranormal topics, and organizing educational events. Skepsis is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. The issue provides contact details for membership, subscriptions, and regional representatives, as well as a list of the organization's board members and scientific advisory board.

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

A review of the book "Paholaisen asianajajan paluu," an "Opaskirja skeptikoille" (Guidebook for Skeptics), published by Ursa and Skepsis. The book aims to counter the growing market for astrology, UFO beliefs, and pseudoscientific healing methods by presenting arguments from Finnish scientists. The first edition was published in 1989 and was named the science book of the year. The new edition is available for purchase through Skepsis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko revolve around debunking pseudoscientific claims, critically evaluating health fads, and promoting a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding the world. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to educate the public about the lack of scientific support for many popular beliefs and practices, from antioxidant supplements to astrology and UFO phenomena. The magazine actively engages in promoting scientific literacy and critical thinking.