1999-1-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 1/99
Date: March 17, 1999
Publisher: Skepsis Ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish magazine focused on skepticism and critical thinking, delves into the scientific validity of various psychological assessment methods, particularly projective tests. The cover story and several articles critically examine graphology, the Rorschach inkblot test, and the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), questioning their reliability and usefulness in understanding human personality.

Editorial: "Saako outoja asioita tutkia?" (Can Strange Things Be Studied?)

In the editorial, Jukka Häkkinen, Chairman of Skepsis, addresses the common perception that scientists are overly critical of unusual phenomena. He argues that this perception arises from a misunderstanding of the scientific process and the way information is communicated. While science is open to studying unusual topics, the rigor of scientific inquiry involves critical evaluation and verification, which can be misinterpreted as dismissiveness. Häkkinen emphasizes that the scientific community's critical stance is essential for ensuring the reliability and usefulness of scientific knowledge. He highlights the difference between the cautious, peer-reviewed process of science and the immediate, often simplified, reporting by media, which can lead to misunderstandings about scientific findings and the skepticism of researchers.

Articles and Features

"Kertovatko musteläikät tai käsiala jotain ihmisen persoonallisuudesta?" (Do Inkblots or Handwriting Tell Something About a Person's Personality?)

This main article by Markku Ojanen explores the reliability and validity of projective tests, specifically graphology and the Rorschach test, in assessing personality. The author notes that while psychometric approaches are common, projective methods are more controversial. He explains that psychometric tests aim to measure personality traits through questionnaires and statistical analysis, requiring tests to be repeatable (reliable) and to accurately measure what they intend to measure (valid). Projective tests, on the other hand, are based on the idea that ambiguous stimuli reveal unconscious aspects of the personality. Examples include the Rorschach test (inkblots) and the TAT (pictures). Ojanen points out that while these tests are used in clinical settings, their scientific basis is often weak. He cites studies that show graphology has little predictive power and that Rorschach test results can be inconsistent and difficult to validate against other established measures. The article suggests that the use of these tests, especially in selection processes, is problematic and that their interpretations can be as speculative as horoscopes.

"Mäkikuista – rohtoa masennukseen?" (Yarrow – A Remedy for Depression?)

This article, authored by Anna-Liisa Enkovaara, investigates the purported medicinal properties of yarrow (Mäkikuista), specifically its use as a treatment for depression. The article likely examines scientific evidence, or lack thereof, supporting this claim, aligning with Skeptikko's critical approach to alternative remedies.

"Matinkosken ihmerohdot" (Matinkoski's Miracle Cures)

Written by Veikko Näntö, this piece likely scrutinizes specific 'miracle cures' or pseudoscientific health claims associated with Matinkoski, applying critical analysis to such phenomena.

"Kolme kriittistä näkökulmaa luomuun" (Three Critical Perspectives on Organic Food)

Eija Pehu presents three critical viewpoints on organic food (luomu). This article likely questions the scientific basis, effectiveness, or marketing claims surrounding organic products, reflecting the magazine's skeptical stance.

"Tieteen peruspilareita kaatamassa" (Toppling the Pillars of Science)

Lassi Kurkijärvi's article discusses attempts to undermine fundamental scientific principles. This could involve examining pseudoscientific theories that challenge established scientific laws or methods.

"Bara Normal" and "Telepaattinen koira" (Normal Bar and Telepathic Dog)

These shorter pieces, authored by Jukka Häkkinen, likely address specific topics related to pseudoscience or paranormal claims. "Bara Normal" might be a commentary on a particular phenomenon or claim, while "Telepaattinen koira" presumably investigates alleged telepathic abilities in dogs.

"Yhdistys toimii" (The Association is Active)

This section likely provides an update on the activities of Skepsis Ry, detailing its work, events, and initiatives in promoting skepticism and critical thinking.

"Lyhyet" (Shorts), "Kirjat" (Books), "Keskustelua" (Discussion), "Tulevia tapahtumia" (Upcoming Events), and "English Summary"

These regular sections offer brief news items, book reviews, reader contributions, announcements of future events, and a summary of the issue's content in English.

Specific Investigations into Projective Tests:

Graphology:

The article details a planned collaboration between Skepsis in Oulu and the Finnish Graphological Association. Tero Asp, the association's chairman, claimed he could identify pregnant women from handwriting samples. Skepsis proposed a test, but Asp's conditions, such as requiring specific pen types and pre-pregnancy samples, were deemed impractical by Skepsis. The discussion highlights the challenges in scientifically testing graphology, particularly the difficulty in establishing objective criteria and obtaining comparable data. The article concludes that graphological interpretations are often subjective and lack empirical validation, comparing their use to horoscopes.

Rorschach Test:

Research on the Rorschach test is reviewed, with meta-analyses indicating mixed results regarding its reliability and validity. While some studies suggest it can help categorize individuals with psychological disorders, its ability to predict specific personality traits or outcomes is questioned. The article notes that Rorschach interpretations often lack a strong theoretical basis and that its correlation with other personality tests is weak. The use of Rorschach in selection processes is particularly criticized.

Thematic Apperception Test (TAT):

Studies on the TAT are also discussed, with some evidence suggesting it can predict achievement motivation. However, like the Rorschach, its broader application in predicting personality characteristics or outcomes is subject to debate. The article suggests that while TAT might offer insights into an individual's underlying themes and concerns, its interpretation requires careful consideration and validation.

General Critique of Projective Tests:

The overarching theme is that projective tests, particularly those relying on form or style (like graphology), are scientifically dubious. Their interpretations are often subjective, based on cultural symbolism or intuition, and lack empirical support. The article argues that these tests do not adequately measure specific personality traits, which is the goal of psychometric approaches. The author expresses concern about the ethical implications of using such tests, especially in high-stakes situations like job selection, where the lack of proven validity can lead to unfair decisions. The article concludes that while projective tests might offer some clinical insights, their use should be approached with extreme caution and skepticism, and their application in selection processes should cease.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly reinforces Skeptikko's commitment to evidence-based reasoning and critical evaluation of claims, particularly in the realm of psychology and pseudoscience. The magazine consistently promotes a scientific approach, emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence, reliability, and validity in psychological assessment. The editorial stance is clearly against the uncritical acceptance of pseudoscientific methods like graphology and the overreliance on projective tests without robust scientific backing. The magazine advocates for transparency and rigorous research methodologies, urging readers to question claims that lack scientific support and to distinguish between scientific inquiry and speculative interpretations.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 1/1999
Date: January 1999
Publisher: Skeptikko
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko magazine critically examines various topics, including the use of psychological testing, the scientific validity of alternative medicine, and the promotion of pseudoscientific claims.

Toimitukselta (From the Editors)

The editorial section discusses the prevalence of psychological tests in job selection in Finland, noting the lack of regulation and the potential for unqualified practitioners to exploit individuals. It mentions that while some tests are reliable, others, like projective tests, have limited use in hiring decisions. The author also touches upon the societal perception of women being more susceptible to 'hocus pocus' and the common belief in UFOs among young men.

Kari Enqvist: Science vs. Mysticism

This section features an interview with Docent Kari Enqvist, a recipient of the Tieto-Finlandia award for his book 'Olemisen porteilla' (The Gates of Existence). Enqvist, a physicist, discusses his views on the conflict between science and mysticism, asserting that people ultimately trust scientific knowledge. He explains his book's exploration of existence and consciousness from a quantum physics perspective, challenging readers to question assumptions. Enqvist also addresses criticisms from philosopher Jyri Puhakas, who accused him of denying everyday reality. Enqvist clarifies that his work does not negate the physical world but rather explores its fundamental nature, distinguishing between theoretical principles and practical phenomena.

St. John's Wort for Depression?

This extensive article investigates the use of St. John's Wort (mäkikuisma) as a treatment for depression. It details the plant's traditional uses and the active compounds believed to be responsible for its effects, such as hypericin. The article reviews clinical studies, including meta-analyses, suggesting that St. John's Wort extract is effective for mild to moderate depression, though it notes the need for more research on long-term effects and comparisons with conventional antidepressants. It also discusses the safety profile of St. John's Wort, mentioning potential side effects like gastrointestinal issues and photosensitivity, and its availability as a herbal remedy in Germany, the US, and Finland. The article highlights ongoing large-scale studies, including one comparing St. John's Wort with sertraline.

Matti Matinkoski: The Miracle Herbalist

This section critically examines the claims of Matti Matinkoski, a self-proclaimed herbalist who promotes his 'miracle herbs' for a wide range of ailments. Matinkoski, who claims to have cured himself of lung cancer with herbs, asserts that all diseases stem from 'toxins' in the body caused by modern lifestyles and processed foods. He dismisses conventional medicine and advocates for his herbal remedies as a cure for everything from cancer to high blood pressure and rheumatism. The article details his marketing tactics, the high prices of his products, and his dismissive attitude towards scientific evidence and medical professionals. It includes a report from a physician who attended Matinkoski's lecture, highlighting the audience's eagerness for simple solutions and guaranteed cures, and the pseudoscientific nature of Matinkoski's explanations.

Is Organic Research Flawed?

This article discusses the state of organic farming research in Finland. Sampsa Heinonen, an inspector general, criticizes the lack of comprehensive quality research methods for organically produced food in Finland, contrasting it with methods used in Central Europe, such as the 'biofoton' and 'crystallization' methods. The article notes that these methods, developed by followers of Rudolf Steiner, are not widely adopted due to their theoretical basis being outside mainstream scientific understanding. Despite over a decade of research investment, the results in organic farming are described as modest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical evaluation of claims made in the fields of psychology, alternative medicine, and pseudoscience. Skeptikko magazine consistently promotes a scientific and evidence-based approach, questioning unsubstantiated claims and highlighting the importance of critical thinking. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of pseudoscientific practices and advocates for rigorous scientific research and regulation in areas affecting public health and well-being.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 1/1999
Date: January 1999
Publisher: Skeptikko
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko magazine features a critical examination of organic farming, a historical overview of the evolution versus creationism debate, and an investigation into alleged animal telepathy.

Critical Perspective on Organic Farming

Eija Pehu, Professor of Plant Husbandry at the University of Helsinki, presents a critical view on organic farming research in Finland. She argues that while organic farming research has received significant funding for over a decade, the scientific output is alarmingly low, with few international publications and no doctoral dissertations in the field. This lack of demonstrable scientific results makes it challenging to secure further funding in a competitive research environment.

Pehu acknowledges Finland's strong position in ecological research internationally but notes the poor recognition of its organic farming research. She suggests that the research community, having achieved general acceptance among consumers and producers, should now focus on elevating Finnish organic farming research to a European level, particularly in northern climate agroecology and cultivation techniques.

She also touches upon the gender aspect of organic farming, noting that while it creates opportunities for female entrepreneurs, it can also disproportionately increase the workload for women on farms with traditional divisions of labor. She emphasizes the importance of women's entrepreneur networks and programs to prevent the "glorification of subjugation" in rural development.

Pehu concludes by stating that for organic products to remain competitive in the future, they must be competitive in quality, product range, and price. This requires cooperation between producers, researchers, industry, trade, and the public sector. Organic products will then find their place among other products based on the demand they create.

The Pillars of Science Under Attack: Evolution vs. Creationism

Lassi Kurkijärvi's article examines the historical and ongoing conflict between evolutionary theory and creationism. He traces the roots of evolutionary thought back to David Hume and highlights Charles Darwin's "On the Origin of Species" as a seminal work alongside Isaac Newton's "Principia."

The article details how evolutionary theory, initially met with resistance, gradually gained acceptance in scientific circles. However, a strong counter-movement emerged, particularly in the United States, driven by fundamentalist interpretations of the Bible. The article recounts the "Monkey Trial" of John T. Scopes in 1925, where a substitute teacher was prosecuted for teaching evolution, and the subsequent legal battles and public opinion shifts.

Kurkijärvi notes that despite scientific consensus, a significant portion of the American public still adheres to creationist beliefs. He discusses the arguments used by creationists, who often frame evolution as a morally corrupting theory linked to social Darwinism and Nazism. The article also touches upon the role of prominent figures like Ronald Reagan in supporting the creationist movement.

Despite legal setbacks for creationism in educational settings, the debate continues. The article points out that the perceived conflict between science and religion has lessened for many, with religion often viewed as a metaphysical concept rather than a literal truth. However, for some fundamentalist groups, a literal interpretation of the Bible remains paramount.

Kurkijärvi concludes that the denial and rejection of evolution hinder progress not only in the natural sciences but also in the humanities and social sciences. He argues that evolutionary theory provides a unifying framework for understanding life and that abandoning it would dismantle a crucial foundation for scientific advancement.

Telepathic Dog: Investigating Animal Intuition

Jukka Häkkinen reports on experiments designed to test the alleged telepathic abilities of animals, particularly dogs, inspired by Rupert Sheldrake's theories on morphic fields. Sheldrake proposes that these fields facilitate telepathic connections between pets and their owners, regardless of distance.

The article describes a series of four experiments conducted with a terrier named Jaytee, which was filmed by an Austrian television company for allegedly demonstrating an uncanny ability to sense its owner's return home. The experiments, involving researchers Richard Wiseman, Matthew Smith, and Julie Milton, aimed to systematically test Jaytee's behavior when its owner, Pam Smart, was about to return.

The experimental setup involved Smart leaving the house and returning at random intervals, while Jaytee's behavior was observed. The researchers defined specific behaviors, such as Jaytee going to the porch, as indicators of telepathic awareness. However, the results of the four experiments, conducted in July and December 1995, did not provide conclusive evidence of telepathy.

Several factors were identified as potential confounding variables, including routine behaviors, subtle environmental cues, and the possibility of selective observation or media manipulation. The researchers concluded that the phenomenon observed in the television program was likely not due to psychic abilities but rather to a combination of these factors, and possibly a biased presentation of the evidence by the television producers.

The article discusses common explanations for perceived animal intuition, such as learned routines, heightened senses, and unintentional cues from humans. It also highlights the challenges of conducting rigorous scientific research on such phenomena, emphasizing the need for strict controls and systematic data collection.

Skepsis Regional Activities

The magazine also introduces the regional coordinators of Skepsis, the Finnish skepticism association. Sami Tetri, a medical student in Oulu, discusses his involvement in establishing local activities, focusing on practical and accessible events for the public. Vesa Tenhunen, a history teacher and self-proclaimed dilettante in natural sciences, shares his interest in parapsychology, UFOs, and alternative medicine, and his role in organizing events in Joensuu. Mikko Matias Aunola, a physics postgraduate student in Jyväskylä, describes his long-standing involvement with Skepsis, including organizing events and his appreciation for the scientific method.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes a critical and evidence-based approach to various phenomena, from organic farming research to claims of animal telepathy and the historical debate surrounding evolution. The editorial stance clearly favors scientific methodology, empirical evidence, and rational inquiry over pseudoscientific claims and unverified beliefs. The magazine aims to debunk myths, challenge unfounded assertions, and foster a skeptical mindset among its readers, as exemplified by its coverage of the evolution-creationism debate and the investigation into animal intuition.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 1/1999, is a Finnish publication from Skeptikot ry, focusing on skepticism, science criticism, and the debunking of pseudoscience. The cover headline, "The turn of the millennium inspires the paranormal," sets the tone for a magazine deeply concerned with the rise of irrational beliefs and the defense of scientific reasoning.

Regional Activities and Skeptical Engagement

The magazine features updates from regional Skeptikko contacts. Lasse Kurkijärvi from Tampere, a philosophy student, discusses his involvement in the organization, including plans for public lectures on topics like "Urban mythology" and "Fears and truths related to health." He also mentions potential excursions and regular meetups. Niko Porjo from Turku, a physics student, explains how he became a regional contact due to a lack of volunteers, expressing his interest in organizing activities for students.

Critiques of Alternative Medicine and Pseudoscience

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to scrutinizing alternative medicine and pseudoscientific claims.

Vyöhyketerapia (Zone Therapy) for Childbirth Pain in Oulu

A report details the use of zone therapy and magnetic ear magnets for pain relief in childbirth at Oulu University Hospital. The article notes that while these methods are presented as pain relief, they are not considered medical treatment, and the use of magnetic therapy is questioned due to its origins in outdated theories.

Andrew Weil and Alternative Medicine

The magazine discusses Andrew Weil, a proponent of alternative medicine, who was awarded an honorary doctorate. Critics, including the editor-in-chief of The New England Journal of Medicine, argue that this honor implies parity between alternative and scientific medicine, which is misleading as Weil's practices lack rigorous scientific validation.

The Rise of Paranormal Interest

Fortean Times is cited as reporting a surge in paranormal phenomena marketing, with predictions of increased interest as the millennium approaches. The FBI director's warning about potential terror acts related to end-of-the-world visions is also mentioned.

The MDB Cancer Cure Debacle in Italy

Professor Di Bella's alleged miracle cancer cure, MDB, is critically examined. An international working group found no evidence of its effectiveness and noted significant side effects, despite claims by Di Bella's supporters of manipulated results.

Growing Popularity of Alternative Therapies in Finland

MediUutiset reports a doubling in the use of alternative therapies in Finland over the past decade, with a significant portion of the population having tried such methods. This trend is viewed with concern by health professionals.

European Commission Report on Alternative Medicine

A European Commission report calls for better training and more thorough research into alternative medicine practices. It highlights that a third of EU citizens use these therapies, often without scientific evidence of their effectiveness. The report emphasizes the responsibility of health authorities to provide reliable information.

JAMA Editor Fired

George Lundberg, the editor-in-chief of JAMA, was dismissed after 17 years. The stated reason was the publication of an old study on attitudes towards oral sex, but the magazine notes JAMA's critical stance on alternative therapies under his leadership.

Book Review: "Intellectual Impostures" by Alan Sokal and Jean Bricmont

This extensive review focuses on the book "Intellectual Impostures," which critiques the misuse of scientific and mathematical theories by postmodern intellectuals. The review details Sokal and Bricmont's arguments against epistemic relativism and their analysis of thinkers like Jacques Lacan, Julia Kristeva, Bruno Latour, and Gilles Deleuze. The authors argue that these intellectuals often distort scientific concepts to support their own theories, leading to a breakdown in rational discourse. The review praises the book for its clear defense of reason and its witty critique of postmodernism.

Epistemic Relativism

The review explains epistemic relativism as the view that a truth claim is only true relative to an individual or group. Sokal and Bricmont argue that while radical skepticism cannot be disproven, it is an impractical stance for scientific inquiry. They advocate for a continuity between everyday reasoning and scientific rationality.

Critiques of Key Postmodern Thinkers

The book analyzes specific thinkers, including Lacan, Kristeva, Irigaray, Latour, Baudrillard, Deleuze, Guattari, and Virilio, highlighting their alleged misinterpretations or misuse of scientific concepts. Bruno Latour's "semiotic analysis" of Einstein's theory of relativity is presented as an example of his tendency to conflate scientific theories with their social representations.

The "Strong Programme" in the Sociology of Science

The review discusses the "strong programme" in the sociology of science, which seeks to explain all scientific beliefs, true or false, through social factors. Sokal and Bricmont criticize this approach for its radical relativism, arguing that it makes it impossible to justify scientific claims based on evidence.

Book Review: "Unweaving the Rainbow" by Richard Dawkins

This review discusses Richard Dawkins' book, which defends the beauty and wonder of science against claims that it diminishes human life. Dawkins argues against the idea that science destroys poetry, using the example of Isaac Newton and the rainbow. The book is described as a defense of natural science and a critique of postmodernist views that equate science with a cold, unfeeling worldview. Dawkins' work is praised for its clear explanations and engaging style, though his direct and critical rhetoric is noted.

Science vs. Pseudoscience

Dawkins is presented as a staunch defender of science and a critic of pseudoscience. He challenges claims that science is inherently dehumanizing and argues that it provides a more accurate and profound understanding of reality than superstition or New Age beliefs.

Paranormal Claims and Probability

The book addresses paranormal phenomena and probability, using examples that are described as insightful and engaging, similar to Michael Shermer's work. Dawkins also critiques flawed scientific texts and arguments, including those related to gender differences in thinking.

Discussion: "Sociobiology or Freudianism – Which is Pseudoscience?"

This section features a debate about the scientific status of sociobiology and Freudianism. Timo Kaitaro is criticized for classifying sociobiology as a borderline pseudoscience, alongside psychoanalysis. The author of this section argues that sociobiology, with its basis in evolutionary biology and testable hypotheses, is a legitimate scientific field, citing the work of W.D. Hamilton and Richard Dawkins. In contrast, Freudianism is examined for its reliance on outdated biological concepts and its questionable scientific methodology, despite its proponents' claims of being a science of the human mind.

Is Freud Science?

The article questions whether Freudian psychoanalysis can be considered science. While acknowledging that contemporary Freudians may focus on therapy, it points out that Sigmund Freud himself considered his theories to be scientific discoveries comparable to Newton's and Darwin's. However, Freud's theories were based on flawed biological assumptions, such as Lamarckism, leading to incorrect conclusions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the defense of scientific rationality against the rising tide of pseudoscience and alternative medicine, the critique of postmodern relativism, and the celebration of science's capacity to explain the world. The editorial stance is clearly pro-science, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based reasoning, critical thinking, and the pursuit of objective truth. The magazine actively engages with contemporary debates, using book reviews and articles to dissect and debunk irrational beliefs and flawed scientific or pseudoscientific arguments.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 1/1999
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
Cover Headline: Paholaisen asianajajan paluu (The Devil's Advocate Returns)

This issue of Skeptikko, the journal of the Finnish skeptical society, delves into critical examinations of various topics, including postmodernism, psychoanalysis, psychology, and the paranormal. The magazine aims to promote objective and evidence-based inquiry into claims that fall outside conventional scientific understanding.

Postmodern Science and Psychoanalysis

The lead article, "Postmoderni tiede ja psykoanalyysi" (Postmodern Science and Psychoanalysis) by Heikki Sarmaja, critically analyzes the claims of French postmodern philosophers and their perceived encroachment into scientific fields. Sarmaja highlights the work of Alan Sokalin and Jean Bricmont, authors of "Intellectual Impostures," who critiqued postmodernists for misusing scientific terminology. Sarmaja agrees with Timo Kaitaro that while some intellectuals may genuinely seek interdisciplinary connections, others may be venturing into pseudoscientific territory. He specifically targets the psychoanalytic concept of the "Oedipus complex," as proposed by Sigmund Freud.

Sarmaja argues that Freud's theory, which posits that the "superego" controls innate incestuous desires, is flawed. He points out that modern primatology and sociobiology demonstrate that incest avoidance is a natural, instinctual behavior in many species, including primates, due to genetic disadvantages. Therefore, the concept of a human "superego" suppressing these desires, as Freud suggested, is unnecessary and unscientific. Sarmaja contends that if psychoanalysts were truly scientific, they would acknowledge this fundamental flaw in Freud's theory and abandon the Oedipus complex concept. He draws a parallel between the Freudian movement's response to this critique and that of some theologians to Darwin's theory, suggesting that they may focus on the 'meaning' or 'interpretation' rather than the literal scientific accuracy of their foundational ideas.

Projective Tests in Psychology

Another article, "Do Ink Blots or Graphology Reveal Anything from Our Personality?" by Markku Ojanen, a professor of psychology, addresses the scientific community's skeptical view of projective tests. Ojanen notes that tests like the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) might have some utility in identifying deviations from the norm or aiding in clinical work, but their primary purpose should not be diagnosis but rather understanding the patient's own perspective on their symptoms.

However, Ojanen is more critical of tests based on form, such as graphology and the Wartegg drawing test, which are widely used in Finland. He believes these tests cannot accurately measure psychological qualities because their interpretations are largely based on the tester's intuition and cultural symbolism, similar to horoscopes. Ojanen concludes that individuals are entitled to appeal against being subjected to such tests, as neither graphology nor the Wartegg test has been scientifically validated by the international scientific community.

Saint John's Wort and Depression

"Saint John's Wort - Remedy for Depression?" by Anna-Liisa Enkovaara, chief physician at the National Board of Health, examines the medicinal plant *Hypericum perforatum*. The article notes that Saint John's wort has been traditionally used in Europe for centuries to treat mild mental problems. While it is one of the most studied medicinal plants of the 1990s, the exact mechanism of its antidepressant effect remains unclear. Enkovaara mentions that in Finland, only one product containing Saint John's wort is classified under the Medicine Law, intended for "lifting the spirits, dissolving slight restlessness and occasional insomnia." Other products are sold as foodstuffs. The sale of such products will be regulated by the National Board of Health starting in July of that year.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a section titled "Närästää" (Indigestion/Annoyance), featuring two short pieces. The first discusses the common, unscientific belief that reading too much can lead to madness, suggesting it's a way to justify one's own lack of reading. The second piece humorously critiques the idea that drinking water with whiskey can worsen a hangover, calling it a paranormal claim that insults whiskey drinkers.

There is a call for membership in Skepsis, detailing the benefits, including receiving the Skeptikko magazine. Information is provided on how to join and the membership fees. The magazine also lists upcoming events organized by Skepsis, including lectures on topics like electromagnetic fields, cult phenomena, and unusual states of consciousness, held in Helsinki and Jyväskylä.

A prominent feature is the "Skeptiksen Haaste" (Skepsis Challenge), offering a 10,000 mk prize for anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions. The challenge is tripled if the phenomenon is produced by a humanoid, with an additional offer for a humanoid stipend. Astronomer Hannu Karttunen and magician Iiro Seppänen have pledged to contribute to this tripled prize.

Finally, the issue includes information about URSA, a Finnish astronomical association, offering its members discounted prices on various books, including "Paholaisen asianajajan paluu" (The Devil's Advocate Returns), which is featured on the cover. The magazine also provides contact information for Skepsis, its board members, regional contacts, and the scientific advisory board.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, the importance of empirical evidence in science, and the critical evaluation of psychological theories and practices. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rationalism, scientific methodology, and a critical approach to claims of the paranormal and unverified theories. The magazine actively promotes critical thinking and encourages its readers to question unsubstantiated beliefs, whether they originate from postmodern philosophy, psychoanalysis, or popular notions about psychology and the paranormal.