2002-3-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: Skeptikko
Issue: Numero 54
Volume: 3/2002
Date: 14.10.2002

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, published by Skepsis Ry, is dedicated to exploring the intersection of belief, skepticism, and security. It features a prominent cover story questioning whether religions pose a threat to security, particularly in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The magazine delves into psychological and sociological aspects of belief, the nature of coincidences, and the role of emotions in shaping our convictions.

Editorial and Cover Story: "Are Religions a Threat to Security?" (Ovatko uskonnot uhka turvallisuudelle?)

The lead article, written by Ilkka Pyysiäinen, a Doctor of Theology from the University of Helsinki, addresses the question of whether religions and beliefs are a threat to security. The article posits that it is natural to believe in the supernatural, and thus religions are here to stay. However, it questions whether this is a good or bad thing, especially in light of the 9/11 attacks. Pyysiäinen uses an anecdote from anthropologist Pascal Boyer about a theologian's reaction to the beliefs of the Fang people in Cameroon to illustrate how different cultural beliefs can seem irrational to outsiders. He argues that religious beliefs are not an isolated phenomenon but part of a broader human belief system, akin to other everyday beliefs about luck or health.

The article distinguishes between internal and external security, suggesting religion can be a threat within societies and in international conflicts, as well as a psychological threat to individuals. It notes that while religions can be associated with negative phenomena, they also contribute to much good.

Coincidences and Skepticism: "Coincidence or Magic?" (Sattumaa vai magiaa?)

This section, likely an editorial or a short piece, highlights several perceived coincidences related to the 9/11 attacks. It mentions that the date 9/11 is written as 9/11 in the American format, which is also the US emergency number. It also points out that September 11th was the 254th day of the year, and 2+5+4=11. A more striking coincidence cited is the New York state lottery draw on the anniversary of the attacks, where the winning numbers were 9, 1, 1. The article quotes American skeptic Paul M. Amore, who found this unsettling. The probability of drawing 9, 1, 1 is stated as 1 in 1000. The article also mentions other coincidences, such as the US $20 bill allegedly showing images related to the 9/11 attacks when folded, and the similarity in the number of letters in the names of Presidents Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy, both of whom were assassinated.

Skeptic David G. Myers is quoted stating that while rare coincidences are certain to happen, it's unlikely that a predetermined rare event would occur. The article concludes that significant coincidences are often found in retrospect rather than predicted.

The Nature of Belief and Attitudes

Another article explores how attitudes towards beliefs shape our thinking. It discusses how minority religious movements are often perceived as a threat by the majority, and vice versa, citing the conflict in Northern Ireland between Protestants and Catholics and the struggle between Jews and Muslims in the Middle East as examples. The article suggests that religions tap into powerful motivating factors that can lead to extreme behavior. It posits that religions are composed of beliefs and psychological attitudes towards those beliefs. Even atheists share the concept of 'God exists' with believers, differing only in their attitude towards it. These attitudes are described as 'embodied,' meaning they manifest physically, affecting heart rate and blood pressure.

Mystical Experiences and Mind Manipulation

This section delves into how emotions are linked to beliefs and how these can be artificially manipulated. It discusses 'psychotronics,' a term referring to technical means of influencing human nervous system processing, particularly attitudes. The article mentions claims of military applications of these techniques, including methods to alter brain signals related to psychological well-being. Examples cited include the Russian 'Russian Virus 666,' which allegedly uses color combinations on computer screens to influence the subconscious, and the '25th frame' phenomenon where subliminal images or words are flashed to embed messages. The concept of 'silent cassettes' and 'subliminal messages' transmitted via radio waves and the internet are also discussed as potential tools for inducing feelings of depression or discomfort. The 'Silent Sound Spread Spectrum' technology, allegedly used by the US, is also mentioned as a method to analyze and retransmit brainwave patterns associated with specific emotional states.

The Role of Essentialism in Belief and Social Grouping

Anthropologist Michael Persinger's experiment with a helmet that emits magnetic fields to stimulate the brain, leading participants to experience a sense of the divine, is presented. This is linked to the idea that certain brain activities can induce profound subjective experiences, which are then interpreted through existing belief systems. The article then introduces Harvey Whitehouse's theory of two ways religious traditions are transmitted: 'imagistic' and 'doctrinal' religion.

Imagistic religion is characterized by rituals that evoke strong emotional experiences, making memories vivid. It is often found in smaller groups where members know each other. Doctrinal religion, on the other hand, relies on repetition of beliefs and is typical of larger, more anonymous communities. While imagistic religion is emotionally driven, doctrinal religion emphasizes correct doctrine. The article notes that while the content of belief may differ, the way these beliefs are encoded in human cognition is key. It suggests that the distinction between imagistic and doctrinal religion has significant political and social implications.

Religion as a Social Tool and the Problem of Essentialism

The article further explores how religious traditions are transmitted. It suggests that even in larger religious communities, emotional experiences can be used to reinforce adherence to doctrine, as seen in revival movements. The example of Islam is used to illustrate how a sense of belonging can be fostered among a diverse global Muslim population through shared doctrine and emotional connections.

It is argued that religions are not independent entities but are shaped by human behavior and beliefs. Religious beliefs can be used to justify actions, even those not inherently religious, such as moral codes. The article posits that basic moral concepts like prohibitions against killing, stealing, and lying are rooted in evolutionary adaptations for survival rather than specific religious doctrines, with religions merely providing frameworks for these principles.

Religion is presented as a tool for social group formation, leading to divisions like Christians, Jews, and Muslims. These groups often exhibit solidarity within and hostility towards outsiders, leading to religious conflicts. The article questions why people fight in the name of religion, suggesting that the underlying reason is the perception of other groups as a threat, a primitive territorial behavior.

Essentialism, the tendency to simplify reality by attributing an inherent essence to objects or people, is discussed as a cognitive bias that contributes to prejudice. This bias leads to stereotyping, where individuals are categorized based on perceived group characteristics (e.g., 'kettutyttö' or 'Muslim'). The article criticizes the tendency to generalize the actions of a few to an entire group, such as blaming all Americans for the policies of the US government or all Muslims for the actions of a few.

The Power of Beliefs and Cognitive Biases

The article highlights the remarkable power of religious beliefs in regulating human behavior, stemming from strong emotional connections to these beliefs. It discusses how ingrained religious practices, like daily prayer, can be difficult to abandon due to the emotional security they provide. Questioning or forbidding one's religion can lead to significant distress, manifesting physically. The power of religious beliefs is attributed to their ability to provide both uncertainty and absolute certainty, as they deal with concepts beyond empirical verification.

The article concludes by discussing how engaging in actions that align with one's religious beliefs can reinforce those beliefs, while acting against them can lead to doubt. This dynamic can contribute to religious fanaticism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko revolve around critical thinking, skepticism towards paranormal claims and religious dogma, and the psychological and sociological underpinnings of belief. The magazine consistently advocates for a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding the world, challenging unsubstantiated claims and promoting critical inquiry. The editorial stance is clearly that of promoting scientific skepticism and debunking pseudoscience and unfounded beliefs.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/2002, focuses on critical examinations of pseudoscientific claims, particularly in the areas of numerology, dowsing, and aura photography. The magazine features articles by Risto K. Järvinen and Joe Nickell, exploring these topics with a skeptical perspective.

Article: Numerology and the 9/11 Attacks

The article "Myös 20 dollarin seteli ennusti terrori-iskut?" (Did the $20 bill also predict terrorist attacks?) by Risto K. Järvinen investigates claims that the 9/11 terrorist attacks were predicted through numerology. It describes how folding a $20 bill allegedly revealed images of the Pentagon and the World Trade Center, and how numbers associated with the date and names were interpreted as premonitions. The article also mentions the website where this theory gained traction and the marketing strategy of the site's creators. It notes that the numerological analysis of the date 11.9 and the number 20 (from the $20 bill) was presented as evidence. The article also touches upon the idea that US dollar bills might contain hidden messages or predictions.

Another article, "Numeroissa on tulevaisuus!" (The future is in numbers!) by an unnamed author, further explores numerology in relation to the 9/11 attacks. It highlights seemingly coincidental numerical occurrences, such as lottery numbers in New York matching the date 11.9. The article details how numbers from names like Osama Bin Laden and events were combined and interpreted to 'reveal' the perpetrators and predict future events, such as a potential US invasion of Iraq. It suggests that specific number combinations (like 7 and 13) are significant and can be used to identify individuals like Saddam Hussein. The article concludes by mentioning that variations in interpretation can lead to slightly different predictions regarding timing.

Article: Dowsing Experiment

"Joensuun koe osoitti: Varpu ei toiminut niin kuin varpumiehet väittivät" (The Joensuu experiment showed: Dowsing did not work as dowsers claimed) by Risto K. Järvinen reports on an experiment conducted by Skepsis to test the effectiveness of dowsing. Four participants were tested in a blindfolded setting to see if they could locate 'water veins' (or other phenomena claimed to be detectable by dowsing) without visual cues. The results showed that the participants' ability to locate these spots was no better than chance. The article explains the methodology, including the use of a random number generator to select test locations. It highlights the lack of consistency between different dowsers and even between different attempts by the same dowser. The conclusion is that dowsing does not work as claimed and that any perceived success is likely due to the dowser's eyesight or memory, rather than the dowsing rod detecting anything specific.

Article: Aura Photography

"Rehellinen kuva aurakuvauksesta" (An honest picture of aura photography) by Joe Nickell critically examines the concept and practice of aura photography. Nickell traces the history of the belief in auras, mentioning early proponents like Walter J. Kilner and modern practitioners like Caroline Myss. He argues that there is no scientific evidence for the existence of auras as described by proponents. The article discusses various attempts to scientifically validate aura claims, including tests involving psychics and the James Randi challenge, all of which reportedly failed to produce conclusive results. Nickell explains that what is often presented as an aura is actually a phenomenon related to electrical discharge, similar to Kirlian photography, which can be influenced by factors like moisture and pressure. He also details his personal experience with an aura camera, where different 'readings' were obtained under slightly varied conditions, suggesting the technology is not a reliable indicator of a person's true state.

The article "Skepsis esitteli oman aurakameransa" (Skepsis presented its own aura camera) by Risto K. Järvinen further elaborates on the technical aspects of aura cameras. It presents two possible operating principles: one suggesting the camera captures an 'energy field' or 'aura' using special sensors and computer imaging, and another, more skeptical view, positing that there is no scientific evidence for such fields. This second explanation suggests that the camera uses a double exposure technique with LEDs to create colorful images, which are then interpreted by psychics. The article implies that the technology is more about creating an illusion than capturing a genuine phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue of Skeptikko is the critical examination of paranormal and pseudoscientific claims. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, seeking scientific explanations and debunking unsubstantiated beliefs. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of evidence-based reasoning and scientific methodology, challenging claims that lack empirical support. The articles aim to educate readers about the flaws in reasoning and methodology behind phenomena like numerology, dowsing, and aura photography, encouraging a critical approach to such topics.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/2002, features a cover story titled "Ihminen kuussa – salaliittoko sekin?" (Human on the Moon – A Conspiracy Too?). The magazine explores various topics, including historical revisionism, neuroscience, and skepticism towards paranormal claims and conspiracy theories.

Articles

The Moon Landing Conspiracy

The main article, "Ihminen kuussa – salaliittoko sekin?", directly addresses the conspiracy theories surrounding the Apollo moon landings. It debunks common 'evidence' presented by theorists, such as the lack of a blast crater under the lunar module, the appearance of a waving flag, and the supposed inability of astronauts to survive the Van Allen radiation belts. The article explains these phenomena with scientific reasoning, emphasizing the unique conditions on the moon (vacuum, low gravity) and the protective measures of the spacecraft and suits. It criticizes the methods used by conspiracy theorists, such as misinterpreting evidence, taking statements out of context, and presenting pseudo-experts. The article also touches upon the role of media, like the Fox-TV program "Salaliittoteoria", in spreading these theories.

The Location of Ancient Troy

Another significant article, "Me antiikin sankarit" (We Ancient Heroes), delves into a controversial theory proposing that the ancient city of Troy, as described by Homer, was not located in Asia Minor but in Finland. The theory, championed by Italian engineer Felice Vinci and supported by researchers like Stuart Harris, suggests that place names in Finland, particularly in the municipality of Kisko and the town of Somero, bear striking resemblances to ancient Greek names associated with the Trojan War. The article details how researchers have identified parallels between Finnish locations and Homeric geography, including the suggestion that "Traakianmeri" (Thracian Sea) could refer to the Gulf of Finland. It also discusses the idea that ancient migrations might have led to the transplantation of place names. The article presents the arguments of both proponents and skeptics, including the views of Finnish experts like Erkki Fredrikson, who express doubt about the linguistic and historical basis of the theory.

Neuroscience and Belief

"Aivojen välittäjäaine näyttää olemattomia merkityksiä: Dopamiini lisää uskoa yliluonnolliseen" (Brain Neurotransmitter Seems to Create Non-existent Meanings: Dopamine Increases Belief in the Supernatural) explores the neurological underpinnings of belief. It discusses research by neurologist Peter Brugger, who found that higher dopamine levels might make individuals more prone to perceiving patterns and connections, thus increasing their susceptibility to paranormal beliefs. The article describes experiments where participants, especially those with higher dopamine levels, were more likely to see meaningful patterns in random data. It also touches upon the role of dopamine in the brain's reward system.

Out-of-Body Experiences

"Ruumiistapoistuminen elektrodien avulla" (Out-of-Body Experiences with Electrodes) reports on research conducted by neurologist Olaf Blanke at the University of Geneva. The study demonstrated that stimulating a specific area of the brain (gyrus angularis) could induce out-of-body experiences in patients. This suggests that such phenomena, often interpreted as supernatural, may have a neurological explanation related to the brain's processing of sensory information and body awareness.

Historical Revisionism in Sweden and Finland

"Ruotsissa on väärä kuningas" (Sweden Has the Wrong King) and "Suomi - kaikkien kielien äiti" (Finland – Mother of All Languages) discuss historical revisionist movements, particularly those originating in Sweden and Finland. The article highlights the theories of Swedish

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 3/2002, is a Finnish magazine focused on critical examination of phenomena often considered paranormal or pseudoscientific. The issue delves into several key topics: the alleged hoax of the Apollo moon landings, the Fermi Paradox regarding extraterrestrial life, the scientific approach to UFO research, and a critical review of parapsychology.

Debunking the Apollo Moon Landing Hoax

The magazine features a prominent section titled "Todiste" huijauksesta" (Evidence of a Hoax), which systematically addresses and refutes common arguments made by moon landing deniers. The article tackles claims such as the American flag waving in the vacuum of space, the absence of stars in lunar photographs, and the supposed similarity of different landscape shots. It explains that the flag's appearance is due to a horizontal rod and wrinkles, the lack of stars is a result of short exposure times needed for the bright lunar surface, and the similarity of landscapes is attributed to the vastness of the moon and the limited photographic angles available. The article also addresses the conspiracy theory surrounding the deaths of Apollo 1 astronauts Gus Grissom, Roger Chaffee, and Ed White, stating there is no evidence they were murdered for threatening to expose a hoax, and explaining the probable cause of the fatal fire. The role of Thomas Baron, a supposed whistleblower, is also discussed, with the conclusion that his death was likely an accident and his report was already public.

Another article, "Kuulentojen todisteita joista TV-ohjelma vaikeni" (Evidence of moon landings that TV programs remained silent about), lists concrete evidence supporting the moon landings. This includes the over 400 kilograms of moon rocks analyzed by scientists worldwide, the extensive documentation of the Apollo program, independent tracking of the missions by astronomers, and scientific experiments like laser reflectors left on the moon.

The Fermi Paradox and Extraterrestrial Life

The cover story, "Mikseivät humanoidit vastaa?" (Why Don't Humanoids Answer?), explores the Fermi Paradox – the contradiction between the high probability of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of evidence for them. The article discusses the vastness of the universe, the conditions necessary for life, and the potential uniqueness of human intelligence. It touches upon the idea that life might exist in forms we don't yet understand and that civilizations might exist at different times, making simultaneous contact unlikely. The article also considers the possibility that Earth's own technological emissions might be detectable, but the vast distances involved make detection challenging.

A Scientific Approach to UFO Research

The article "Ufotutkijoiden pyrittävä tieteelliseen tutkimusotteeseen" (UFO researchers should strive for a scientific approach to research) argues for a more rigorous and evidence-based methodology in UFO studies. It emphasizes the importance of critical analysis, objective data collection, and avoiding preconceived notions or biases, whether skeptical or credulous. The article suggests that while collecting eyewitness accounts is important, it should be supplemented by scientific methods and tools. It also touches upon the limitations of relying solely on anecdotal evidence and the need to consider psychological factors, such as Jungian archetypes and migraines, as potential explanations for some sightings. The development of databases for UFO reports and the use of advanced technology are highlighted as ways to improve research.

Parapsychology Under Scrutiny

The "KIRJAT" (Books) section features a review of C.E.M. Hansel's 1966 book "ESP - A Scientific Evaluation." The reviewer, Olavi Kiviniemi, praises the book as a classic in skeptical literature that critically examines parapsychological research. Hansel's work is described as meticulously analyzing various ESP experiments, pointing out methodological flaws, potential for fraud, and the lack of convincing evidence for extrasensory perception and psychokinesis. The review highlights Hansel's emphasis on Occam's Razor, suggesting that simpler, known explanations should be preferred over complex, unproven ones. The book's conclusion is that parapsychology, as presented in the studies examined, does not hold up to scientific scrutiny.

Media Criticism and Other Topics

The issue also includes a short piece titled "Roska-TV" (Trash TV), criticizing sensationalist television programs that blur the lines between documentary and entertainment, often presenting unsubstantiated claims as fact. The magazine also provides a list of websites for further research on UFOs and related topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, the recurring theme is the importance of critical thinking and scientific methodology when evaluating extraordinary claims. The magazine consistently advocates for evidence-based reasoning, debunking pseudoscience, and promoting a skeptical yet open-minded approach to unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific rationalism and against the uncritical acceptance of conspiracy theories or paranormal claims, particularly those presented in sensationalist media.

This issue of Skeptikko, number 3/2002, is a Finnish magazine focused on skepticism and critical inquiry into paranormal and pseudoscientific claims. It features a range of articles, discussions, and organizational updates.

Book Review: 'ESP - A Scientific Evaluation' by C.E.M. Hansel

The issue begins with a detailed discussion and critique of C.E.M. Hansel's book, 'ESP - A Scientific Evaluation'. The reviewer acknowledges the book's significance in highlighting practical problems in parapsychology. Hansel's approach is described as systematic and rigorous, examining potential sources of error in parapsychological experiments, such as misinterpretations, memory unreliability, and the influence of interviewers. The book also addresses the issue of fraud, particularly in mediumship cases. Hansel's conclusions suggest that experimental results are not statistically significant, that fraud is a more likely explanation than paranormal processes, and that no reported cases have withstood critical scrutiny. However, the reviewer, along with a review by Charles Honorton, expresses reservations. Honorton criticizes the book's selective case selection, omission of difficult cases, lack of scientific consistency, factual errors, and general lack of expertise on parapsychology. The reviewer finds Hansel's treatment of spontaneous cases overly critical and questions the absolute certainty of his claims, suggesting that Occam's Razor should always be applied.

Discussion: Alarming Predictions in the Name of Science

This section critically examines the trend of making alarming predictions about the future, often presented in the name of science. The author, Reijo Siipola, contrasts these with historical fears fueled by religion and astrology. He notes that while religious prophecies have waned, scientific predictions, particularly concerning climate change and the potential weakening of the Gulf Stream, are now used to create fear. The article questions the scientific basis of these predictions, especially those concerning climate change and the Gulf Stream, suggesting that nature's self-balancing mechanisms are often overlooked. The author argues that long-term predictions are inherently unreliable due to the complexity of planetary systems and that using them to frighten the public is ethically questionable, regardless of whether the source is a pulpit or an academic chair.

Commentary: Nazis and Skeptics

Risto K. Järvinen responds to a previous article, clarifying the distinction between organic (luomu) and biodynamic agriculture. He criticizes the previous author for conflating the two and for creating an association between organic farming and Nazism. Järvinen argues that organic farming is a reaction to the environmental and ethical problems of industrial agriculture, while biodynamic farming is based on astrology. He asserts that while Nazism was rooted in pseudoscience and harmful ideologies, not all aspects of their worldview were inherently negative, citing their emphasis on healthy lifestyles and respect for nature. He cautions against condemning all of science based on historical missteps or the misuse of scientific concepts by certain groups, drawing parallels to DDT, thalidomide, and freons.

Event Announcement: Jyväskylä Skepsis Meeting

The Jyväskylä chapter of Skepsis is organizing a public lecture and discussion event to celebrate its 10th anniversary. The event, themed 'Four Perspectives on Faith Healing', will take place on October 24, 2002, at the Jyväskylä City Library. Several academics, including a professor of clinical chemistry and a doctor of sociology, will participate.

English Summary

This section provides brief English summaries of several articles:

• Are Religions a Threat to Security? by Ilkka Pyysiäinen: This article explores how religious faith can strongly influence behavior due to emotional attachment and personal security built upon it, making it difficult for believers to question or deny their beliefs.
• Joensuu Experiment Showed: The Rod Didn't Work as Geomancers Claimed by Vesa Tenhunen: An experiment involving four subjects testing dowsing rods for water veins found that the rods did not function as claimed by geomancers, and the success rate was no better than chance.
• Skepsis Presents Our Own Aura Camera by Risto K. Järvinen: Skepsis presented its own aura camera at a fair, comparing it to an 'official' one and questioning whether the images represent bioenergetic fields or are produced by simple light-emitting diodes.
• A Brain Neurotransmitter Reveals Nonexistent Meanings: Dopamine Adds Belief in the Supernatural by Pete Pakarinen: Research suggests that high levels of dopamine can lead to experiences perceived as supernatural and cause individuals, even skeptics, to find meaning where none exists. Dopamine plays a role in the brain's reward and motivational systems.

Membership Information

The magazine includes a form for joining Skepsis ry, detailing membership fees for 2002 (including a subscription to Skeptikko magazine) and options for subscribing to the magazine only. It also provides contact information for membership inquiries and the organization's address.

Skepsis ry: Organization Overview

This section outlines the mission and principles of Skepsis ry, a Finnish skeptical organization founded in 1987. Its goals include promoting objective scientific research into paranormal claims, maintaining a network of interested individuals, publishing articles and bibliographies on paranormal phenomena, and engaging in public education. The organization is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated. It draws inspiration from the US-based CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) and is a member of ECSO and the Finnish Council of Scientific Societies.

Skepsis Challenge

A challenge is announced offering a prize of 10,000 euros to anyone who can demonstrate a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions. Several individuals, including astronomer Hannu Karttunen and magician Iiro Seppänen, have pledged funds towards this prize.

Available Publications

Information is provided about the availability of the book 'Paholaisen asianajajan paluu' (The Devil's Advocate's Return), published by Skepsis and Ursa, which critically examines superstition and pseudoscience. The book is available in bookstores and at Skepsis events at a discounted price for members. A translation into Estonian is also mentioned.

Merchandise

Skepsis offers custom t-shirts for sale at events and via mail order.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical examination of paranormal claims, pseudoscientific theories, and sensationalist predictions, particularly those presented in the name of science. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for evidence-based reasoning, scientific rigor, and a cautious approach to extraordinary claims. The magazine aims to educate the public about critical thinking and to debunk unfounded beliefs, while also providing a platform for discussion and debate within the skeptical community. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and pseudoscience, and on holding both scientific and pseudoscientific claims to high standards of evidence.