2001-3-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, number 50, dated September 24, 2001, features a cover story titled "Why do false beliefs not die?" The magazine is published by Skepsis Ry and focuses on critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, alternative medicine, and societal trends related to health and belief systems.

Editorial and Key Articles

Editorial: Onko peruskoulussa sijaa kriittisyydelle? (Is there room for criticality in primary school?)

The editorial, written by Pete Pakarinen, discusses the role of critical thinking in primary education. It argues that while schools aim to foster self-esteem, creativity, and responsibility, critical thinking is often reduced to mere media criticism, confined to language and social studies classes. The author contends that analytical skills are crucial for scientific thinking and active citizenship in an information society. The editorial notes that while curriculum reforms aim to improve subjects like language, math, and history, the introduction of 'health education' raises concerns due to the influx of unscientific 'alternative therapies'. However, it also finds some optimism in the fact that school-offered elective courses have not yet included pseudoscience, favoring subjects like astronomy over astrology.

Hädällä ja pelolla on helppo rahastaa: Terveyttä ei voi ostaa, vain terveyspalveluja (It's easy to profit from distress and fear: Health cannot be bought, only health services)

This extensive article, authored by Dosentti Markku Myllykangas and Professori Olli-Pekka Ryynänen, critically examines the phenomenon of medicalization and paramedicalization. Medicalization is defined as the process by which medicine expands its influence into non-medical areas of life, such as aging, beauty, and social behavior, often labeling normal human experiences as medical conditions. The authors argue that this leads to an increase in perceived illness and a growth in the power of the medical establishment. They highlight how conditions like depression, once considered personal struggles, are now medicalized, and how aging is increasingly viewed as a disease. The article criticizes the pharmaceutical industry's role in promoting medicalization through aggressive marketing and the creation of new drug markets, often for conditions that may not be actual diseases. The authors also discuss the rise of paramedicalization, or 'puoskarointi' (quackery), which thrives on people's desire for alternative solutions and spiritual fulfillment, often exploiting the placebo effect. The article points out that while conventional medicine is advancing, the unchecked growth of both medicalization and paramedicalization poses significant societal challenges, blurring the lines between normal life experiences and medical problems.

Puoskarointi lisääntyy (Quackery is increasing)

This section, also by Myllykangas and Ryynänen, elaborates on the rise of paramedicalization alongside medicalization. It states that there is a demand for alternative therapies and healers, especially in a health-conscious society. The authors link this trend to a heightened desire for spiritual and physical perfection, fueled by the New Age movement. They criticize the media for irresponsibly promoting quackery without critical scrutiny. The success of quackery is attributed to the human tendency to make false cause-and-effect conclusions and the placebo effect. The article warns that if scientific models lose ground in public decision-making, alternative medicine could infiltrate public healthcare, leading to a misallocation of resources.

Medikalisaatiovauhti kiihtyy (The pace of medicalization is accelerating)

This part of the article by Myllykangas and Ryynänen discusses the increasing speed of medicalization. It notes that healthcare spending has consistently grown faster than national economies in Western countries. The authors point out that the pharmaceutical industry has become a major economic force, driven by medical research. They suggest that healthcare itself can create demand, leading to iatrogenic problems (problems caused by medical treatment or advice). The article highlights that medicalization disproportionately affects women, with many expansions in healthcare targeting female-specific areas like reproductive health and aging. It also touches upon the influence of genetic technology, where genetic predispositions are increasingly used to explain health issues and personal misfortunes, sometimes replacing older explanations like superstition.

Terveyspalvelut kaupan (Health services for sale)

This section continues the critique by Myllykangas and Ryynänen, focusing on the commercialization of health services. The abundant supply of specialized health services shapes perceptions of both the public and healthcare professionals. The authors argue that the emphasis on specialized care can lead to excessive consultations and tests, not always in the patient's best interest. They illustrate this with the example of high blood pressure, where the focus has shifted from lifestyle changes to medication, driven by the pharmaceutical industry's financial interests. The article also touches upon the societal pressure to be constantly happy and productive, leading to the increased use of antidepressants, sometimes referred to as 'employer's little helpers'.

Riskitietoisuus ahdistaa (Risk awareness is distressing)

Myllykangas and Ryynänen explore the double-edged nature of risk awareness. While medicalization can increase awareness of health risks, it also creates new social divisions and guilt. Individuals who do not adhere to healthy lifestyles are often stigmatized. The article suggests that the concept of 'being healthy' is increasingly linked to civic duty and even patriotism, potentially leading to extreme forms of social control. The pressure to be healthy and to die at the 'right' age, coupled with mandatory health checks, can lead to a sense of being constantly scrutinized.

Epäeettistä mainontaa (Unethical advertising)

This section details unethical marketing practices in the health sector. The authors criticize cosmetic surgery advertisements that prey on insecurities and promote unnecessary procedures. They also highlight misleading advertising for new mood-altering drugs, which are presented as 'happiness pills' with exaggerated claims. The article notes that pharmaceutical companies have also created depression tests for doctors, which have been criticized for their questionable methodology and ethics. The authors express concern that such marketing contributes to a culture of hypochondria and dissatisfaction with oneself.

Lopuksi (In conclusion)

The concluding thoughts by Myllykangas and Ryynänen reiterate that medicalization is difficult to curb. If access to medical services is restricted, people may turn to alternative therapists, thus increasing paramedicalization. The article suggests that life is increasingly characterized by a growing probability of illness and the inevitability of death. The authors also reference two books: "Terveydenhuollon etiikka. Arvot monimutkaisuuden maailmassa" (Ethics of Healthcare. Values in a complex world) by Ryynänen and Myllykangas, and "Medikalisaatio - aikamme sairaus" (Medicalization - the illness of our time) by Tuomainen, Myllykangas, Elo, and Ryynänen.

Other Articles and Sections

Sisältö (Table of Contents)

The table of contents lists various articles, including:

• "Hädällä ja pelolla on helppo rahastaa. Terveyttä ei voi ostaa, vain terveyspalveluja" by Markku Myllykangas and Olli-Pekka Ryynänen.
• "Bara Normal. Suurimpien ongelmien äärellä" by Bara Normal.
• "Antroposofian pseudotieteellinen maailmankuva" by Heikki Ervasti.
• "Miksi virheelliset uskomukset eivät kuole?" by Gregory W. Lester.
• "Lyhyet" by Jukka Häkkinen.
• "Maailmankuvat uskon vankeina" by Matias Päätalo.
• "Puheenjohtajan palsta" by Jukka Häkkinen.
• "Korvakynttilä imee 'vaikkua' jopa ilmapallon sisältä?" by Pertti Laine and Veikko Näntö.
• "Maasäteilyraportti jälleen saatavissa..." by Kari Mäkelä.
• Discussions on cognitive dissonance.
• "Elintarvikevirastolta uusi esite luontaistuotteista" by Risto K. Järvinen.

Pääkirjoitus (Editorial)

This section contains the editorial discussed above.

Other short articles and discussions:

• An article by Bara Normal on major problems.
• Heikki Ervasti's piece on the pseudoscientific worldview of anthroposophy.
• Gregory W. Lester's article on why false beliefs do not die.
• A section titled "Lyhyet" (Shorts) by Jukka Häkkinen.
• Matias Päätalo's article "Maailmankuvat uskon vankeina" (Worldviews captive to faith).
• Jukka Häkkinen's "Puheenjohtajan palsta" (Chairman's column).
• Pertti Laine and Veikko Näntö investigate ear candling.
• Kari Mäkelä discusses a report on earth radiation.
• Discussions on cognitive dissonance.
• An article by Risto K. Järvinen about a new brochure from the Food Agency on natural products.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko revolve around the persistence of irrational beliefs, the critical examination of health-related claims (including alternative medicine and medicalization), and the importance of scientific literacy and critical thinking. The magazine's stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk pseudoscience and promote evidence-based reasoning. It advocates for a more critical approach to health information, marketing, and educational practices, urging readers to question claims that lack scientific support and to be wary of the growing influence of the pharmaceutical industry and the commercialization of health.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 3/2001
Date: March 2001
Publisher: Skeptikko
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Skeptikko delves into the world of Anthroposophy, critically examining its foundations, practices, and claims to scientific validity. The cover headline, "Suurimpien ongelmien äärellä" (At the Core of the Biggest Problems), hints at the broad scope of issues discussed, while the lead article humorously contemplates personal trivialities before confronting larger global concerns.

The Pseudoscientific Worldview of Anthroposophy

The main article, "Miksi virheelliset uskomukset eivät kuole?" (Why Do False Beliefs Not Die?), and the extensive analysis of Anthroposophy by Heikki Ervasti, form the core of this issue. Ervasti argues that Anthroposophy, despite its claims, is a pseudoscientific system rooted in occultism and Theosophy. He traces its origins to Rudolf Steiner, who developed a complex system of 'spiritual science' that extends to various practical applications.

Origins and Core Tenets

Anthroposophy is presented as an evolution of Theosophy, with Steiner himself having been a prominent figure in the Theosophical Society before founding his own movement. Key tenets include reincarnation, karma, and a belief in a spiritual reality accessible through 'spiritual science.' The article emphasizes that Anthroposophy offers a complete worldview, often described as a religion or a spiritual philosophy, rather than a scientific discipline.

Steiner's 'Spiritual Science'

Rudolf Steiner's teachings are presented as the foundation of Anthroposophy. His 'spiritual science' (Hengentiede) is characterized by methods such as clairvoyance and meditation, which the article argues are not scientifically verifiable. Steiner claimed access to a spiritual world, including beings like elementals and nature spirits, and his writings cover a vast range of topics from cosmology and human evolution to medicine and education.

Applications of Anthroposophy

The issue details several key applications of Anthroposophy:

• Steiner Education (Waldorf Schools): This is one of the most visible manifestations of Anthroposophy. The article criticizes the pedagogical methods, such as the emphasis on developmental stages and the delay of conceptual thinking, and points out that the underlying anthroposophical worldview is implicitly transmitted through the curriculum and teaching practices, despite claims of it being a purely methodological approach.
• Anthroposophical Medicine: This branch of medicine views illness as a result of imbalances in the human being's different bodies (physical, etheric, astral, and ego). Treatments often involve artistic therapies and a different understanding of disease, sometimes viewing suffering as a karmic necessity for future reincarnations. The article notes the rejection of vaccinations and the emphasis on spiritual support.
• Biodynamic Agriculture: This form of agriculture is based on astrological principles and the use of specific preparations made from natural materials. It aims to harmonize agricultural processes with cosmic forces.

Criticisms and Controversies

Ervasti's analysis highlights several critical points:

• Pseudoscience: The core argument is that Anthroposophy lacks scientific rigor, relying on unverifiable claims and subjective experiences rather than empirical evidence and peer review.
• Occultism: The movement is described as occultist, with its teachings being presented in a way that downplays their esoteric origins and emphasizes positive associations.
• Race Theories: The article points to controversial racial theories within Steiner's writings, which have led to scandals and legal scrutiny in countries like the Netherlands and Germany. Steiner's views on 'root races' and his language regarding certain ethnic groups are compared to those of the Nazis.
• Presentation and Marketing: Anthroposophists are accused of presenting their system as scientific and their organizations as cultural institutions, effectively marketing their ideas without critical examination of their underlying principles.
• Resistance to Criticism: The article notes that Anthroposophists often discourage critical evaluation of Steiner's work, suggesting that only those with similar training can offer valid critiques.

The Persistence of Belief

The article "Miksi virheelliset uskomukset eivät kuole?" touches upon the psychological and biological reasons why people cling to beliefs, even in the face of contradictory evidence. It suggests that beliefs serve a fundamental purpose in survival and that understanding this biological imperative can help skeptics communicate more effectively.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the critical examination of Anthroposophy as a pseudoscientific movement that has gained significant traction through strategic marketing and the presentation of its various applications (education, medicine, agriculture) as beneficial and even scientific. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to expose the occultist roots and lack of empirical evidence behind Anthroposophical claims. The magazine encourages critical thinking and the application of scientific standards to all belief systems and practices.

This issue of Skeptikko (3/2001) is a Finnish magazine focused on skepticism, critical thinking, and the scientific evaluation of claims. It features articles that dissect the nature of beliefs, the resistance to changing them, and the importance of evidence-based reasoning.

The Psychology of Belief and Survival

The lead article, "Maailmankuvat uskon vankeina" (Worldviews Imprisoned by Belief) by Matias Päätaalo, and "Aistit ja uskomukset" (Senses and Beliefs) by Gregory W. Lester, explore the fundamental role of beliefs in human cognition and survival. Lester argues that beliefs act as a survival tool, extending our sensory perception and providing an internal map of the world. The brain prioritizes survival, and beliefs are seen as essential for maintaining this sense of order and safety. This explains why people are often resistant to changing their beliefs, even in the face of contradictory evidence, as it can be perceived as a threat to their fundamental worldview and sense of security.

Gregory W. Lester's article "Aistit ja uskomukset" (Senses and Beliefs) further elaborates on this, explaining that beliefs complement sensory input, allowing us to infer information about areas beyond our immediate perception. He likens beliefs to a 'danger radar' that helps us navigate the unknown and improve our chances of survival. The article also touches upon how behaviors like overeating and addiction are rooted in the brain's perception of scarcity and threat to survival.

Critiquing Pseudoscience: Ear Candling and Homeopathy

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to debunking pseudoscientific practices. The article "Korvakynttilä imee “vaikkua” jopa ilmapallon sisältä?" (Does Ear Candling Suck 'Wax' Even from Inside a Balloon?) by an anonymous author, critically examines the practice of ear candling. It highlights the lack of scientific basis in physics and anatomy, demonstrating through an experiment that ear candles do not create the claimed suction effect. The article concludes that ear candling is an ineffective, and potentially harmful, treatment.

Another short piece, "Kriittinen tiedeohjelma haastettiin oikeuteen" (Critical Science Program Challenged in Court), reports on a lawsuit filed against Italian science journalist Piero Angela. Angela's popular program Superquark presented a critical view of homeopathy, which was met with legal action by homeopathic associations. The article notes that in Italy, science programs often present homeopathy uncritically, leading millions to use these products.

The Role of Skepticism

"Seuraukset skeptismille" (Consequences for Skepticism) by Gregory W. Lester, offers advice to skeptics on how to effectively engage with people who hold strong beliefs. Lester emphasizes that evidence alone is often insufficient to change deeply held beliefs. Skeptics should focus on understanding the survival function of these beliefs and approach discussions with empathy, avoiding condescension. The goal is to promote rational thought and evidence-based reasoning without alienating individuals.

Lester also discusses the importance of critical thinking and flexible thinking, suggesting that a "flexible mindset" is crucial for scientific inquiry. He contrasts this with the reliance on "belief" as a substitute for knowledge, particularly in everyday language and in the context of scientific discussions where terms like "we believe" are often used loosely.

SETI and Conspiracy Theories

"SETI parantaa rahoitus-mahdollisuuksiaan" (SETI Improves Funding Opportunities) reports on the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) program. It notes that SETI lost public funding in the US in 1994 but has continued to operate through private donations from technology pioneers. Efforts are underway to restore government funding.

"Mir-avaruusaseman pudottaminen osa salaliittoa?" (Was the Mir Space Station's Demise Part of a Conspiracy?) presents a fringe theory by ufologist Andy Lloyd. Lloyd suggests that NASA and the US government deliberately de-orbited the Mir space station to prevent the development of space tourism, which could have revealed evidence of alien spacecraft, thus compromising the government's alleged UFO cover-up.

Editorial and Organizational News

"Syysaktiviteetteja" (Autumn Activities) by Jukka Häkkinen, Chairman of Skepsis ry, outlines the organization's upcoming events, including lectures, exhibitions, and paranormal phenomenon testing. He also mentions the formation of a new working group to improve Skepsis's information dissemination and expert network.

Another section details Skepsis ry's participation in the Turku Book Fair, including public lectures on topics like hypnosis, the conflict between science and pseudoscience, and the "Pharaoh's Whisper" theory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of beliefs, the importance of evidence-based reasoning, and the debunking of pseudoscientific claims. Skeptikko magazine consistently advocates for a scientific and rational approach to understanding the world, challenging unsubstantiated claims and promoting critical thinking skills among its readers. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific methodology and against the uncritical acceptance of phenomena that lack empirical support.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/2001, focuses on critical examination of pseudoscientific claims and practices, with a particular emphasis on dowsing, earth radiation, and the limitations of anecdotal evidence versus scientific methodology. The magazine features research, debates, and analyses that aim to debunk popular myths and promote rational thinking.

Ear Candling: Ineffective and Potentially Harmful

The issue begins with an article by Pertti Laine and Veikko Näntö debunking the practice of ear candling. The authors describe a simple experiment where a balloon was attached to a candle to test for a vacuum effect. When the candle burned, the balloon did not contract, contradicting claims that ear candling creates suction to remove earwax. Upon examining the remaining candle stub, they found a substance resembling earwax, which upon closer inspection, turned out to be solidified wax drippings from the burning candle. The experiment concluded that ear candling is completely ineffective for cleaning ears. Furthermore, the authors warn that melted wax can drip into the ear canal, causing blockages and increasing the risk of infections. They also note that burning candles near hair is not advisable.

The Oulu University Dowsing and Earth Radiation Report

Kari Mäkelä reviews a comprehensive research report conducted at the University of Oulu between 1976 and 1983, which investigated claims of dowsing and earth radiation. The report, originally published in 1985, was made available online by Skeptikko. The study involved testing 32 of Finland's best dowsers and is described as one of the most thorough investigations of its kind. The report highlights the conflict between scientific understanding and popular belief, noting that the researchers faced challenges in addressing folk wisdom. The article mentions that the lead researchers, Martti Mela and Onni Kari-Koskinen, were often in a defensive position in media appearances.

The study's methodology is detailed, including tests to determine if dowsers could repeatedly find the same 'radiation points,' if different dowsers could find the same points in the same area, and if they could locate an artificial water vein. The research employed blind testing to ensure objectivity. The results indicated that while dowsers might find points, their ability to do so consistently and accurately was no better than random chance, even when compared to a control group using a dice (arpanoppa). The report concluded that dowsing is not a reliable method for detecting hypothetical earth radiation or water veins.

Artificial Water Vein Test

A specific experiment involved creating an artificial water vein using a 100-meter-long fire hose buried underground, through which water was pumped. Dowsers, tested in a moving car and on foot with eyes covered, were unable to reliably detect the artificial water vein. The only consistent detection was of a bump in the road, which caused the dowsing rod to react.

Devices for Earth Radiation Protection

The report also tested a device called the 'S-tasaaja' (S-equalizer), claimed to collect earth radiation within a 30-meter radius. The device, consisting of copper wire coils in a plastic tube filled with cement, was found to have no physical basis for its claimed function and was described as a 'magic tool.' Tests involving the S-tasaaja showed results no better than chance (48% correct), and the device's effectiveness was dependent on whether the user knew if it was active.

Plastic Mattresses and Earth Radiation

Another section discusses a claim by electrical engineer Seppo Jyly that thick plastic mattresses could increase earth radiation. A test was conducted where subjects, including Jyly and Mauno Pohjonen, used pendulums to measure radiation levels. When mattresses were placed under a bed, the radiation levels, as measured by the pendulums, did not change, even when the mattresses were hidden from view. This blind test indicated that the claims about the mattresses increasing radiation were unfounded.

The History and Nature of Dowsing

The article "Taikavarpu kautta aikojen" (The Dowsing Rod Through the Ages) provides a historical overview of dowsing. It traces the origins of the term and the tool, noting its ancient roots and evolution in form and function. The text explains that while dowsing has been described as a 'magic tool' and linked to wishes and hopes, scientific attempts to validate its effectiveness have consistently failed. The article suggests that the success of dowsers in finding water is often due to their good knowledge of the terrain and the general availability of groundwater in Finland, rather than any supernatural ability. It also points out that the dowsing rod's effectiveness relies on the user's ability to induce subtle muscle movements, amplified by the rod's balance.

Debate on Cognitive Dissonance and Belief Systems

Tauno Puolitaival contributes a piece titled "Kognitiivinen dissonanssi - vastineen vastineen vastine" (Cognitive Dissonance - A Response to a Response to a Response). He addresses previous articles and debates, particularly concerning the work of Kolmakow. Puolitaival argues that while many people live in a world influenced by paranormal beliefs and pseudoscience, it is important to distinguish between scientific inquiry and subjective experience. He criticizes the uncritical use of scientific terminology to support pseudoscientific ideas, citing an article by Risto K. Järvinen about 'selling quackery with genes.'

Puolitaival discusses the role of science in addressing 'fundamental questions' about life, purpose, and death. He suggests that while science may not provide all the answers, it offers a rational framework for inquiry. He contrasts this with subjective wisdom derived from art, religion, or self-help methods, questioning whether these can be equated with scientific knowledge or should be universally accepted. He posits that focusing inward on consciousness might lead to an 'under-personal' or 'core consciousness' that is universal but does not necessarily reveal vast mysteries. He concludes by stating that while science cannot explain everything, the framing of questions is crucial, and some mysteries are simply unnecessary intellectual additions.

Theological Perspectives on the Resurrection

Another section features an excerpt from theologian Kari Kuula, discussing the resurrection of Jesus. Kuula argues that beliefs about the resurrection are subjective and cannot be objectively proven by historical research. He states that while religious claims may not be less true than scientific ones, they cannot be proven. This perspective is presented as an example of 'subjective wisdom' that, while having significant practical value for individuals, operates outside the realm of empirical scientific validation.

Mörköjä (Bogeymen)

This section touches upon the strong reactions that can arise when deeply held beliefs, particularly those with significant 'use value,' are challenged. The author uses the example of public opinion on the death penalty, where a small percentage of the population believed it should be applied for blasphemy, calling this a 'bogeyman.' The author suggests that while scientific models are useful, there is a need for critical discourse. The piece notes that there are many people who believe in mysticism and the supernatural, and that media outlets often cater to this interest by publishing stories that confirm existing beliefs rather than challenging them.

The Framing of Questions

Puolitaival returns to discuss the framing of questions in the context of seeking truth. He critiques the idea that art, religion, and self-help methods are equivalent to scientific methods for acquiring knowledge. He argues that while these methods might offer subjective wisdom, they do not necessarily lead to objective truth. He questions the demand for universal acceptance of such subjective insights. He suggests that the debate often involves dividing phenomena into those explainable by science and those that are not, and that when addressing 'fundamental questions,' the framing should be rational. He concludes that while science has its limits, the pursuit of truth involves a rational approach, and that some questions might be inherently unanswerable or require a different kind of inquiry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, the recurring themes are the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, the importance of scientific methodology, and the distinction between subjective belief and objective evidence. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for rational thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and a critical approach to paranormal phenomena and unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to educate its readers about the limitations of pseudoscience and the value of scientific inquiry in understanding the world.

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: 3/2001
Date: March 2001
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko magazine delves into various topics related to skepticism, pseudoscience, and critical thinking. The cover story, by Olavi Kiviniemi, discusses cognitive dissonance, while other articles explore evolution, belief-based medicine, and the scientific investigation of paranormal claims.

Articles and Content

Kognitiivinen dissonanssi selittää paljon (Cognitive Dissonance Explains a Lot)

Olavi Kiviniemi writes that the description of cognitive dissonance by Tikkala, Tuomainen, and Myllykangas is good and that the concept explains the contradictions in opinions that appear everywhere. Kiviniemi discusses mystical experiences, noting their profound impact on individuals but also the difficulty in conveying them to others. He touches upon the limitations of physics in supporting paranormal claims and critiques the assertion that paranormal phenomena cannot be scientifically proven. Kiviniemi argues that the scientific method, with its hypotheses, plans, and evaluations, is sufficient for investigating such claims, and that the lack of scientific proof for paranormal phenomena is often due to a lack of rigorous work and documentation.

Sattuma - tiedettä vai mystiikkaa? (Chance - Science or Mysticism?)

Reijo Siipola responds to Professor Anssi Saura, questioning the role of chance in evolution. Siipola finds it logically impossible for chance to exist in a system of absolute causality, suggesting that attributing events to chance is a form of escaping into mysticism. He argues that science should explain reality through causal chains and that introducing chance as an explanation is unscientific. Siipola also touches upon the origin of life, suggesting that if causality dictates the origin of life, then the ultimate cause lies outside the realm of science.

Duval eläkkeelle? (Duval Retired?)

This short piece reports that the consumer fraudster Maria Duval has reportedly retired as a clairvoyant and sold her business. However, the editor of Skeptikko still receives letters from her.

Väitöskirja (Dissertation)

This is a brief announcement that Matias Aunola, a regional contact person for Skepsis in Jyväskylä, has defended his dissertation in theoretical physics at the University of Jyväskylä. The dissertation's topic was the properties of the Hamilton operator describing Cooper pair tunneling and charging phenomena.

Elintarvikevirastolta uusi esite luontaistuotteista (New Brochure on Natural Products from the Food Administration)

The Finnish Food Administration (Elintarvikevirasto) has published a brochure titled "Onkohan tämä humpuukia?" (Is This Humbug?). The brochure aims to help consumers distinguish between legitimate natural products and questionable ones, especially given the increasing marketing of these products through new channels like the internet. It clarifies the distinction between medicines and food products, explains how natural products are monitored, and outlines what claims can and cannot be made about them. The article notes that consumers often express concern about the safety and testing of natural products they purchase.

English Summary Section

This section provides brief summaries of articles in English:

• Distress and fright are easy ways to make money: Health cannot be brought, just health services by Markku Myllykangas and Olli-Pekka Ryynänen. This article discusses how belief-based medicine challenges scientific methods, especially in public decision-making and insurance coverage. It notes the increasing popularity of belief-based medicine, even among those with scientific backgrounds, and the alarming rise in its advertising by doctors.
• The pseudoscientific world view of antroposophy by Docent Heikki Ervasti. This piece attempts to present the entire belief system of antroposophy, a variant of theosophy merged with pseudoscience, as a scientific doctrine.
• World views held captive to faith by Matias Päätalo. This article describes faith as a strange property of the human mind that can restrict thinking to rigid forms, dogmas, or magic. It suggests that philosophers are aware that common-day thinking is often influenced by a lack of knowledge, leading to credophilia, where emotions and volition control rather than intellect.
• Ear candling sucks “earwax” even from a balloon? by Pertti Laine and Veikko Näntö. This article reports on an experiment conducted to determine if burning an ear candle creates a vacuum or pumping action in the ear canal. The experiment involved taping a balloon to the bottom of the candle; if suction occurred, the balloon would have been squished. The result was that the balloon did not change, indicating no significant suction.
• Dowsing report again available by Kari Mäkelä. This article refers to a thorough investigation from the early 1980s at the University of Oulu on locating E-rays and water using dowsing rods. The investigation found that none of the test subjects consistently achieved good, replicable results, and statistically significant results were not achieved at any point, despite occasional single good results. A "randomized" dowser performed comparably to the top dowsers.

Skepsis ry Information

The magazine also includes information about Skepsis ry, the Finnish Skeptics Association. It details the association's founding in 1987, its purpose (promoting objective scientific research into paranormal claims, maintaining a network of interested individuals, publishing research articles, and organizing events), and its non-political, non-ideological, and non-religious stance. It lists the board members for 2001 and regional contact persons. The scientific advisory board is also listed, featuring numerous professors and academics. Information on how to join Skepsis ry, including membership fees and magazine subscription details, is provided. A challenge is also mentioned: 40,000 Finnish marks for anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions.

Publications and Merchandise

Information is provided about the book "Paholaisen asianajajan paluu" (The Devil's Advocate's Return), a guide for skeptics published by Skepsis and URSA, which is available in a new printing. The book is described as a critique of superstition and humbug by Finnish scientists. Additionally, the magazine advertises Skepsis-branded t-shirts for sale.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are the critical examination of paranormal claims, the promotion of scientific methodology, and the debunking of pseudoscience. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, as exemplified by the articles on cognitive dissonance, evolution, belief-based medicine, and the various paranormal phenomena discussed. The magazine actively encourages critical thinking and scientific investigation.