2000-3-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

This issue of "? Skeptikko" (Issue 46, dated 27.10.2000) is a Finnish magazine focused on skepticism, science, and critical thinking. The cover features a collage of four portraits with colorful, blurred backgrounds and the provocative headline "Mitä ihmettä?" (What the heck?). The issue includes an editorial by Sami Tetri, an interview with psychologist and skeptic Ray Hyman, and various articles exploring paranormal claims, scientific methodology, and the nature of belief.

Editorial: Älä ryhdy skeptikoksi! (Don't become a skeptic!)

Sami Tetri's editorial questions the common perception of skeptics, suggesting that while they are often seen as dismissive, their role is crucial in challenging pseudoscientific claims and upholding scientific rigor. Tetri argues that science itself is a process of constant self-correction and that true skeptics operate within this framework by questioning established theories and demanding evidence. He criticizes "scientism" – the belief that science leads to absolute certainty – and posits that skeptics are, in fact, the most genuine scientists because they continually test and refine knowledge. Tetri emphasizes that skepticism is not a dogma but a method of inquiry, and encourages readers to join the organization Skepsis to engage in critical discussion rather than passively accepting claims.

Interview with Ray Hyman

The magazine features an extensive interview with Ray Hyman, a prominent psychologist and skeptic. Hyman recounts his early experiences with spiritualism and magic, which led him to investigate the psychology of deception. He discusses how his initial interest in magic tricks, particularly mind-reading, evolved into a career of debunking paranormal claims. Hyman shares anecdotes about his encounters with figures like Uri Geller, detailing how he exposed their performances as elaborate illusions and psychological manipulation.

Key points from the interview include:

• Early Influences: Hyman's fascination with magic and his early performances as "The Merry Mystic" laid the groundwork for his understanding of illusion and audience perception.
• Debunking Psychic Claims: He describes his involvement in investigating alleged psychic phenomena, such as Uri Geller's metal bending, revealing them to be skillful deceptions.
• The Psychology of Deception: Hyman explains that people are often susceptible to believing in the paranormal due to wishful thinking, confirmation bias, and a desire for simple explanations for complex phenomena.
• The Formation of Skeptical Organizations: Hyman was instrumental in the formation of organizations like SIR (Scientists in Rationality) and CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), which aimed to promote scientific inquiry into paranormal claims.
• The Uri Geller Case: Hyman details his involvement in investigating Uri Geller, noting that many of Geller's alleged abilities were based on his own stories rather than verifiable demonstrations. He highlights how the media and some scientists were too eager to accept Geller's claims without sufficient scrutiny.
• Methodology: Hyman emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodology and controls in testing paranormal claims, citing an instance where his own intervention in a test led to accurate results, suggesting the original experiment had flaws.
• Skepticism vs. Belief: He contrasts the skeptical approach with the tendency of some to readily accept extraordinary claims, noting that people often prefer comforting illusions over difficult truths.

Articles and Content Highlights

• "Totuus on tuolla jossakin ja Ray Hyman haluaa löytää sen" (The Truth is Out There and Ray Hyman Wants to Find It): This article likely serves as an introduction to the interview with Ray Hyman, framing his work within the context of seeking truth in a world filled with misinformation.
• "Mieli, moraali ja evoluutio" (Mind, Morality, and Evolution): An interview with Steven Pinker, translated by Matti Virtanen, likely explores evolutionary psychology and its implications for human behavior and ethics.
• "Vaihtoehtohoidot: hyötyä vai haittaa?" (Alternative Treatments: Benefit or Harm?): Harri Hemilä examines the efficacy and potential risks of alternative medicine, a common topic in skeptical literature.
• "Laihdutusvyö laihdutti vain lompakkoa." (The Slimming Belt Only Slimmed the Wallet.): This article, by Risto K. Järvinen, likely debunks a specific weight-loss product, highlighting its ineffectiveness and financial cost to consumers.
• "Uusi lupaava laihdutusvalmiste?" (A New Promising Weight-Loss Product?): Another article by Risto K. Järvinen, possibly a follow-up or related piece on weight-loss claims.
• "Skeptisyydestä ja argumentoinnin virheistä" (On Skepticism and Errors in Argumentation): Vesa Tenhunen discusses common logical fallacies and flawed reasoning, essential tools for critical thinking.
• "Puheenjohtajan palsta. Kannattaako Skeptinen aktivismi?" (Chairman's Column. Is Skeptical Activism Worthwhile?): Jukka Häkkinen, the chairman, reflects on the role and effectiveness of activism within the skeptical movement.
• "Mitä ihmettä?" (What the heck?): This title, also used as the cover headline, likely introduces a section or article dealing with perplexing or unexplained phenomena.
• "Skepsis mukana kaksilla messuilla" (Skepsis at Two Fairs): Risto K. Järvinen reports on the organization's participation in public events.
• Discussions: Several discussion sections cover topics like "Truth is somewhere out there and Ray Hyman wants to find it," "Wisdom of the crowd," "Mind, morality, and evolution," and "Alternative treatments: benefit or harm?" Other discussion topics include "The era of science and the supernatural in the light of cognitive dissonance theory," and a discussion with Sergei Kolmakov.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the promotion of scientific literacy, critical thinking, and the debunking of pseudoscience and paranormal claims. The magazine consistently advocates for evidence-based reasoning and challenges unsubstantiated beliefs. The editorial stance is clear: to encourage readers to question claims, to rely on scientific evidence, and to be wary of anecdotal evidence and appeals to authority. The interview with Ray Hyman, in particular, underscores the importance of understanding the psychological mechanisms that make people susceptible to deception and the need for rigorous investigation of extraordinary claims. The magazine positions itself as a platform for reasoned debate and the defense of scientific rationality against the tide of misinformation.

This issue of Skeptikko (3/2000) features a prominent interview with Steven Pinker, a leading figure in cognitive science and evolutionary psychology, discussing the mind, morality, and evolution. The magazine also includes articles examining alternative medicine and the nature of skepticism.

Interview with Steven Pinker: Mind, Morality, and Evolution

The interview, conducted by Austin Daey, delves into Steven Pinker's work and views on several key topics. Pinker, a professor at MIT, is known for his contributions to cognitive neuroscience and his ability to popularize complex scientific ideas. He discusses how the computational theory of mind and evolutionary theory have revolutionized psychology, moving it from a field of speculation to one of scientific inquiry. He explains that concepts like 'feedback,' 'data structures,' and 'programs' have provided frameworks for understanding mental processes that were previously considered too elusive for study.

Pinker champions evolutionary psychology, which posits that the human mind is a product of natural selection, composed of specialized modules or 'Darwinian algorithms.' He contrasts this with earlier behaviorist approaches that dismissed internal mental states. He clarifies that evolutionary psychology is primarily a methodological approach, advocating for the integration of psychological hypotheses with evolutionary theory. He also addresses the common misconception that evolutionary psychology is merely a rebranded sociobiology, noting that while there's continuity, evolutionary psychology focuses more on the underlying cognitive mechanisms rather than just observable behaviors.

He defends evolutionary psychology against criticisms, particularly those raised by Stephen Jay Gould, who labeled its proponents 'Darwinian fundamentalists.' Pinker argues that this label is unfair and that evolutionary psychology does not imply a 'naturalistic fallacy' (i.e., that what is natural is necessarily good). He emphasizes that understanding the evolutionary origins of a behavior does not excuse it or absolve individuals of responsibility.

Pinker also touches upon the political implications of evolutionary psychology, stating that while scientific findings must be integrated with societal values, they do not dictate them. He discusses how evolutionary perspectives can inform debates on issues like abortion and euthanasia by providing a framework for understanding human nature. Regarding religion, Pinker adopts a skeptical stance, suggesting that religious beliefs can be explained as byproducts of cognitive mechanisms that evolved for other purposes, such as understanding agency and predicting the future.

He also discusses his upcoming book, 'The Blank Slate: The Denial of Human Nature in Modern Intellectual Life,' which explores why human nature became a taboo subject in the 20th century and how recent scientific findings are challenging this view. Finally, he briefly explains the dual nature of language as described in his book 'Word and Rules: The Ingredients of Language,' highlighting the role of memorized words and combinatorial grammar in enabling human communication.

Alternative Medicine: Benefit or Harm?

This section, authored by Harri Hemilä, critically examines alternative medicine. Hemilä notes that a key characteristic of alternative therapies is their absence from standard medical education, and questions the quality of evidence presented for them. He uses the example of Vitamin C and the common cold to illustrate how established medical institutions sometimes dismiss potential benefits based on flawed analyses or biases, while readily accepting evidence for conventional treatments.

Hemilä argues that the debate around alternative medicine is complex, involving not just scientific efficacy but also sociological aspects of how medical communities perceive and treat different approaches. He points out that the positive effects patients experience from alternative therapies can often be attributed to factors like the therapeutic relationship, patient listening, and the creation of a positive mental state – elements that may be lacking in conventional healthcare settings due to time constraints and a focus on purely biological mechanisms.

He highlights that while many alternative therapies lack a clear scientific basis, the subjective benefit experienced by patients is undeniable. Hemilä suggests that the distinction between alternative and conventional medicine is not always clear-cut, and that the perceived benefits of therapies like homeopathy or even prayer can be similar to those of psychotherapy, emphasizing the importance of the patient's overall experience and well-being.

Skeptical Perspectives on Psychic Phenomena

In a discussion about the criteria for accepting evidence of psychic phenomena, the concept of scientific rigor is emphasized. The need for repeatable experiments and a solid theoretical framework is presented as essential for validating such claims, drawing parallels with the acceptance of scientific theories like continental drift. The article also touches upon the challenges of distinguishing genuine phenomena from sophisticated deception, referencing the example of a man who claimed psychic abilities and demanded belief based on a single successful demonstration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the importance of critical thinking, scientific methodology, and evidence-based reasoning. Skeptikko consistently promotes a skeptical approach to extraordinary claims, whether they originate from parapsychology, alternative medicine, or even popular beliefs. The magazine advocates for a nuanced understanding of human behavior, acknowledging the influence of evolutionary and cognitive factors, while cautioning against deterministic interpretations or the naturalistic fallacy. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific inquiry and rational explanation, encouraging readers to question assumptions and demand robust evidence.

This issue of Skeptikko (3/2000) focuses on critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, particularly in the realm of health and weight loss, and explores the nature of logical fallacies in argumentation. The magazine features articles by Risto K. Järvinen and Vesa Tenhunen, along with an editorial by Jukka Häkkinen.

Articles

The Slimming Belt Slimmed Only the Wallet (Risto K. Järvinen)

This article is a personal review of the BodyVibes slimming belt, which the author purchased after seeing a television advertisement. He describes the typical infomercial tactics used to sell such products, featuring testimonials and supposed scientific backing. Järvinen recounts his own experience, stating that he found the belt ineffective and quickly abandoned it, concluding that it was a waste of money. He contrasts the marketing hype with the reality of the product's performance, highlighting how easily consumers can be misled by such advertising.

Ostos-tv:n laihdutusmenetelmät (Shopping TV's Weight Loss Methods)

This section provides a critical overview of several weight loss products advertised on Finnish shopping television channels (MTV3 and TV-Nelonen) at the time. Products reviewed include Velform double chin remover, Gymfor Plus EMS device, BodyVibes slimming belt, Siluet 40 slimming gel, calcium pyruvate-guarana supplements, and Fat Blocker capsules. The article details the claims made for each product, often highlighting their dubious scientific basis and exaggerated promises.

A New Promising Weight Loss Preparation? (Risto K. Järvinen)

Järvinen investigates MicroMagic, a diet pill promoted by a US professor. He describes being invited to participate in a test group, with a significant discount offered. The article details the marketing claims, including testimonials from Finnish test subjects. However, Järvinen finds inconsistencies, such as one test subject, Mauri Tuominen, reporting less weight loss than advertised and feeling misrepresented in the promotional material. The article questions the scientific validity of MicroMagic's purported mechanism of action, which involves increasing the body's energy expenditure from fat.

Skepticism and the Errors of Argumentation (Vesa Tenhunen)

This extensive article by Vesa Tenhunen provides a detailed analysis of common logical fallacies. Tenhunen argues that understanding these fallacies is crucial for improving argumentation and avoiding unproductive debates. He categorizes and explains numerous fallacies, including:

1. Ad hominem: Attacking the person making the argument rather than the argument itself.
2. Straw man: Misrepresenting an opponent's argument to make it easier to attack.
3. Appeal to authority: Relying on the endorsement of an authority figure, even when they may not be an expert in the relevant field, or selectively citing authorities.
4. Argument from ignorance (Argumentum ad ignorantiam): Asserting that a proposition is true because it has not yet been proven false, or vice versa.
5. Argument from repetition (Argumentum ad nauseam): Repeating a claim until it is accepted as true.
6. Appeal to force (Argumentum ad baculum): Using threats or coercion to force acceptance of an argument.
7. Appeal to consequences: Arguing that a proposition must be false because its consequences are undesirable.
8. False dichotomy (Black-or-white fallacy): Presenting only two options when more exist.
9. Begging the question (Circular reasoning): Assuming the conclusion of an argument in one of the premises.
10. Slippery slope: Asserting that a relatively small first step will inevitably lead to a chain of related events culminating in some significant (usually negative) effect.
11. Non sequitur: A conclusion that does not logically follow from the premises.
12. Half-truths and forgetting evidence: Presenting only partial information or omitting crucial context to support a claim.
13. Misinterpreting statistics: Drawing incorrect conclusions from statistical data, often due to small sample sizes or misunderstanding concepts like averages.
14. Confusing correlation and causation: Assuming that because two things are correlated, one must cause the other.
15. Post hoc ergo propter hoc: Assuming that because event B followed event A, event A must have caused event B.
16. Impossibility of falsification: Presenting claims that cannot be empirically tested or proven false.
17. Ad hoc rationalizations: Creating explanations on the fly to defend a claim against counterarguments, without providing independent evidence.

Tenhunen cites sources like Carl Sagan's "The Demon-Haunted World" and Stephen Downes' "Fallacies" as further reading.

Chairman's Column: Is Skeptical Activism Worthwhile?

Jukka Häkkinen, the editor-in-chief, reflects on the purpose and effectiveness of skeptical activism. He cites an example from Kansas, USA, where local scientists successfully campaigned to ensure evolution remained in the school curriculum, demonstrating that activism can indeed yield results. Häkkinen encourages readers to consider where they might apply such activism in Finland. He also reports on Skepsis's participation in the Hengen ja Tiedon (Spirit and Worldview) fair in Helsinki and the Turku Book Fair, noting the public's interest in rational alternatives. The column also touches upon the group's attempt to build their own 'aura camera' and mentions the upcoming Huuhaa (Nonsense) and Socrates awards.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly promotes critical thinking and scientific literacy. It takes a skeptical stance towards pseudoscientific claims, particularly those related to health, diet, and paranormal phenomena, as exemplified by the reviews of weight loss products and the discussion of logical fallacies. The magazine advocates for evidence-based reasoning and warns against deceptive marketing and flawed argumentation. The editorial stance is clearly pro-science and anti-pseudoscience, encouraging readers to be discerning consumers and critical thinkers.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, dated 3/2000, features a cover story titled 'Mitä ihmettä?' (What the heck?), which critically examines the phenomenon of aura photography and its interpretations. The magazine explores the technology behind aura cameras, the subjective nature of aura readings, and the psychological concept of cognitive dissonance.

Aura Photography: The 'What the Heck?' Phenomenon

The main article delves into the practice of aura photography, highlighting an experience by Jukka Häkkinen who had his aura photographed at a fair in Turku. The 'Nouseva Aurinko' center, which offered this service, used an Auraspectrophotometer 2100 camera, developed in the USA. This camera supposedly measures the 'aura' or energy field around a person using 11 sensors that correspond to different body parts, similar to reflexology. A computer program then translates these vibrations into colors. However, skeptic Pertti Laine explains that the 'trick' involves a Polaroid camera with colored lamps or LEDs, and the image is created through double exposure. He states that the device is essentially a simple resistance meter and has nothing to do with measuring 'auras'.

Interpretations of Aura Photos

The issue presents interpretations of aura photos for several individuals:

• Kalervo Kangas: His aura photo showed a large red ball, interpreted as indicating anxiety and a 'grumpy' disposition.
• Heikki Ervasti: His interpretation was described as a 'flat mush,' suggesting creativity, receptiveness, and communication difficulties. Ervasti himself felt the interpretation missed the mark, failing to account for his stress levels.
• Veikko Näntö: His aura was interpreted as balanced in masculine and feminine energy. An orange color above his head signified healing ability or an ongoing healing process. The color near his ears indicated mental strength, and white color suggested outward-directed energy. A colorless area below his shoulders was interpreted as illness, which surprisingly correlated with his past heart surgery.

The Meaning of Colors and Their Placement

To aid readers in understanding aura interpretations, the magazine includes a list of color meanings from a 'Nouseva Aurinko' brochure:

• Red: Activity, vitality, stress, anger.
• Orange: Healing, self-healing.
• Yellow: Personal power, intellect.
• Green: Balance, heart, change.
• Pink: Joy, enthusiasm, love.
• Blue: Creativity, inner certainty.
• Violet: Spiritual sensitivity, transformation.

The placement of colors is also significant:

• Above the head: Thought world.
• Neck area: Communication.
• Arms and below: Physical level.
• Upper energy: Poor energy flow.
• Right side: Masculine, active, outward-focused.
• Left side: Feminine, receptive, creative.
• Imbalance between sides: Lack of balance in energies.

Skepticism and the Scientific Stance

Lauri Gröhn of Skeptikko raises critical questions about the validity of aura photography, such as why a psychic can't distinguish between one or two people in the dark, or why an aura can be captured even if the person has left the camera's vicinity, or if the hand isn't placed on the contact plate.

Discussion: Sergei Kolmakow and Cognitive Dissonance

Another section features a discussion with Sergei Kolmakow, addressing his views on paranormal phenomena. The article critiques the idea that science no longer denies the existence of such phenomena, arguing that while some scientists may believe in them, this doesn't equate to scientific proof. The concept of 'Kirlian photography' and 'biofotons' are discussed, with claims that Fritz Popp's findings have been disproven and explained by fluorescence. The article also touches upon Torsio fields, stating they are beyond the reach of physicists and lack evidence.

Kirlian Photography and Cognitive Dissonance

The article questions the use of corona discharge photography (based on gas ionization, humidity, and skin conductivity) for studying 'healing'. It suggests that statistical claims of healing are not supported and that even skeptics can influence the photographic parameters through their thoughts, as skin conductivity can change. Kolmakow's statement that 'Kirlian images are fractals' is also addressed, with the explanation that repeating details can be generated by image processing software.

Korotkov's Zone Maps and GDV Instruments

Korotkov's zone maps, which claim to show organ correspondences on fingertips, are dismissed as unscientific. The article questions the use of GDV instruments for scientific research, given the unproven nature of the Kirlian phenomenon.

Biological Object Analyzer RELIEF - Sector Map

A diagram illustrates the 'Biological Object Analyzer RELIEF - Sector Map,' which associates different parts of the left and right hands with various body areas and psychological states. The left hand represents the right hemisphere of the brain and spiritual essence, while the right hand represents the left hemisphere and physical essence. The diagram details specific zones like the thumb, index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and pinky finger, linking them to areas such as the brain, eyes, nose, throat, chest, abdomen, and reproductive organs.

The Era of Science and Cognitive Dissonance Theory

This section explores the conflict between a scientific worldview and the acceptance of paranormal phenomena. It discusses Leon Festinger's cognitive dissonance theory, which posits that individuals strive for consistency between their beliefs and attitudes. When faced with information that contradicts their existing beliefs (dissonance), people are motivated to reduce this discomfort, often by rationalizing, denying, or selectively seeking information that confirms their views.

The Western Worldview and Paranormal Phenomena

The article argues that Western culture, particularly influenced by science and Christianity, has created a worldview that separates humans from nature and the supernatural. This separation makes it difficult for individuals to accept paranormal phenomena, which challenge the established order of cause and effect, space, and time. The scientific method, with its emphasis on objectivity and repeatability, is presented as a barrier to understanding subjective or non-quantifiable experiences.

The Paradox of Science

The article highlights a paradox: while science aims to understand the universe, the scientific method itself, particularly the principle of objectification, can create a distance between the observer and the observed. This distance makes it challenging to study phenomena that involve subjective consciousness or interconnectedness, such as paranormal experiences. The article suggests that the scientific community's rejection of the paranormal is partly a defense mechanism to maintain their rational worldview and avoid the discomfort of cognitive dissonance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards pseudoscientific claims, the psychological underpinnings of belief and disbelief, and the limitations of the scientific method when applied to subjective or unconventional phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly critical of unsubstantiated claims, advocating for rigorous evidence and rational analysis while acknowledging the psychological need for consistency in belief systems. The magazine aims to debunk claims of the paranormal by exposing the underlying psychological and methodological flaws in their purported evidence.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 3/2000
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
Date: 2000-03

This issue of Skeptikko, the magazine of the Finnish Skeptics Association, delves into the complexities of skepticism, paranormal phenomena, and the limitations of current scientific paradigms. It features a range of articles that critically examine claims, explore alternative viewpoints, and provide information about the association itself.

Editorial: Don't become a "skeptic"!

By Sami Tetri, the editorial argues that the term "skeptic" is often misunderstood. Tetri suggests that instead of being a rigid stance against the unknown, skepticism should be an active engagement with claims, encouraging critical analysis and the identification of faulty argumentation. He posits that the scientific community's dismissal of paranormal experiences can leave individuals vulnerable to charlatans and sensationalism. The editorial invites readers to join Skepsis, not to adopt a dogma, but to participate in critical discussion and help refine the organization's thinking.

The Limits of Scientific Paradigms and a New View of Humanity

The article "Uuteen ihmiskuvaan" (Towards a New Image of Humanity) discusses the limitations of a purely objective, scientific worldview. It suggests that the dualistic separation of subject and object, while useful for conceptual control, fails to capture the holistic nature of reality. The author draws parallels between the challenges faced by Western science and the historical struggles of Christianity against heresies, framing paradigm shifts in science as a form of intellectual reformation. The piece explores how insights from Eastern philosophies and modern physics, particularly quantum mechanics, are challenging the mechanistic, Newtonian worldview. It highlights the work of Fritjof Capra, who seeks to integrate Eastern thought with modern physics, and discusses how transpersonal psychology offers a framework for understanding paranormal phenomena and the resistance to them. The article touches upon Ken Wilber's ideas about the fear of ego-death associated with expanding consciousness and how the rejection of the paranormal might be an attempt to escape one's true self.

Paranormal Phenomena and Scientific Investigation

The article "Päätelmät" (Conclusions) reflects on the cognitive dissonance experienced by scientists when confronted with phenomena that challenge their established worldview. It argues that while science has instilled a healthy skepticism, it can also lead to an overly rigid adherence to its own limits, dismissing anything that cannot be scientifically verified. The author suggests that the scientific method, while powerful, may be insufficient to grasp the full complexity of reality, particularly the subjective experiences within the human mind. The piece implies that the scientific worldview, which posits that everything is natural and explainable through causality, inherently excludes the paranormal by definition.

Alternative Medicine: Useful or Harmful?

By Harri Hemilä, this article addresses the potential harm caused by alternative medicine. The author states that in his experience, he has never encountered a patient whose necessary care was delayed by alternative medicine, nor has he heard of a child suffering due to parents' belief in such methods. However, he contrasts this by saying he has met numerous patients who received inferior treatment from conventional medicine, not just in terms of bedside manner.

A New Promising Slimming Medicine?

By Risto K. Järvinen, this short piece reports on a phone conversation with Mauri Turunen, who responded to an advertisement recruiting test subjects for a free MicroMagic slimming course. Turunen used the pills for six weeks and found them to be ineffective, stating that they were worthless and that his evaluations on the response form were distorted, making them unrecognizable as his own.

About Skepticism and Faulty Argumentation

By Vesa Tenhunen, this article emphasizes the importance of clear argumentation and avoiding baseless statements in discussions. Tenhunen suggests that arguments should be as logical as possible and provides a list of common logical fallacies. Recognizing these errors in one's own reasoning and in the reasoning of others is presented as a way to perfect argumentation and avoid unproductive "It is so!" - "No - it ain't!" debates.

The Chairman's Column

By Jukka Häkkinen, the chairman of Skepsis, recounts an experience at a book fair where the group decided to have their auras photographed. The results, which are featured on the magazine's cover, were analyzed, with the analyst suggesting that the "aura" showed "exaggerated stress on the intellect," possibly influenced by the "skeptic radiation" of the group. The column also mentions that a working group within Skepsis is developing its own apparatus for photographing auras for future events.

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

This section announces that the book "Paholaisen asianajajan paluu," edited by Risto Selin, Marketta Ollikainen, and Ilpo V. Salmi, is available again. Published by Ursa in 1997, it is described as a guidebook for skeptics. The book, which was named the science book of the year in 1989, features Finnish scientists challenging superstition and pseudoscience. A Croatian edition is also mentioned.

Information about Skepsis ry

Several sections provide details about the Skepsis association. This includes contact information for membership and subscriptions, a list of the board members for the year 2000, and the members of the scientific advisory board. The association's purpose, as stated in its statutes, is to promote objective and unbiased scientific research into paranormal claims, to maintain a network for interested individuals, and to publish articles and bibliographies on the subject. Skepsis ry is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. The association also publishes the magazine Skeptikko four times a year.

Skepsis's Challenge

A challenge is announced: 40,000 Finnish marks (approximately 6730 euros) will be paid to anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions. Hannu Karttunen and Iiro Seppänen have each pledged 10,000 marks towards this sum. The challenge can also be claimed as a "humanoid stipend" for a humanoid who can prove their identity and provide DNA samples.

Merchandise

Information is provided about purchasing Skepsis t-shirts, available for 60 marks and in sizes S, M, L, and XL. Orders can also be placed by mail for an additional 10 marks for postage.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, the evaluation of alternative medicine, and the philosophical underpinnings of skepticism. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific inquiry, evidence-based reasoning, and a cautious approach to unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to foster critical thinking and to challenge pseudoscience, while also acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the importance of open discussion. There is a consistent emphasis on the need for rigorous methodology and logical argumentation in evaluating extraordinary claims.