2002-4-skeptikko

Magazine Overview

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 4/2002
Date: December 31, 2002
Publisher: Skepsis Ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of Skeptikko, a Finnish skeptical magazine, tackles a range of topics from alleged UFO sightings and controversial theories to the critical examination of medical practices and historical rituals.

Editorial: The Burden of Skepticism

The editorial, written by Risto K. Järvinen, reflects on the personal and professional challenges of being a skeptic. He shares a poignant experience with a friend battling advanced breast cancer, highlighting the inadequacy of skeptical comfort in the face of severe illness. Järvinen contrasts the effectiveness of evidence-based medical treatments with the allure of unproven alternative therapies. He criticizes the promotion of 'miracle cures' and pseudoscientific claims, citing the case of Marketta Kivela, who allegedly recovered from cancer through a regimen of 'super-ionized' water and various alternative practices. Järvinen dismisses these methods as 'hocus pocus' and points out that the Finnish Cancer Society's chief physician, Matti Rautalahti, also attributes spontaneous cancer remissions to natural phenomena, not alternative treatments. He also mentions the 'Huuhaa' award given by Skepsis ry to doctors using electroacupuncture for diagnosis, a device similar to one used in Kivela's case.

Articles

UFO Photos: Real or Not?

This cover story, by Risto K. Järvinen, questions the authenticity of UFO photographs, suggesting that many are likely misidentifications or hoaxes. The article likely aims to apply critical thinking and scientific scrutiny to photographic evidence presented as proof of extraterrestrial visitation.

'Utele-Theory' Causes a Stir

This article, by Matias Päätalo, discusses the 'Utele-theory', which has apparently caused a stir among university circles in Oulu. The theory's nature is not detailed, but its controversial reception suggests it challenges established scientific or academic views.

A Certain Mysterious Substance...

Authored by Pertti Laine, this piece delves into a 'mysterious substance,' likely exploring its properties, potential applications, or the pseudoscientific claims surrounding it. The context suggests a critical examination of unsubstantiated claims about new or unusual materials.

The History and Ethics of Circumcision

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to a multi-part exploration of circumcision, primarily focusing on its ritualistic and historical aspects, with a critical look at its medical justifications.

#### Circumcision: A Perspective on Foreskin Removal

This article by Professor Esko Länsimies critically analyzes a meta-analysis published in the New England Journal of Medicine that suggested a link between male circumcision and reduced risk of cervical cancer. Länsimies argues that the meta-analysis was flawed, based on disparate data, and that the conclusions were drawn through questionable statistical manipulation. He criticizes the media's sensationalist reporting of the study's findings and calls for greater diligence from medical journalists and researchers.

#### Why Are Routine Circumcisions Performed?

This section explores the reasons behind performing circumcisions, distinguishing between ritualistic (Jewish, Islamic) and routine (non-religious) procedures. It notes that routine circumcisions became more common in the 19th century, partly driven by a desire to curb children's sexual curiosity and masturbation. The practice spread widely in the US and was even used as a public health measure during WWII.

#### The Biblical Background of Circumcision

This detailed historical and religious analysis traces the origins of circumcision to Abraham's covenant with God. It explains the ritual's significance in Judaism, including its commandment to be performed on the eighth day, and its role in marking Jewish identity. The text discusses the concept of 'arel' (uncircumcised) as a term of reproach and explores various interpretations and historical instances of circumcision, including its practice among ancient Egyptians and its connection to initiation rites.

#### Circumcision: A Sacrament?

This section clarifies that circumcision is not a sacrament in the same way as Christian baptism. It is a ritual that marks Jewish identity, and while traditionally performed on the eighth day, it can be postponed for medical reasons. The article touches upon the evolution of the practice within Reform Judaism, where some communities have questioned or abandoned the ritual due to its perceived cruelty, especially when performed on adults.

#### Circumcision Among Non-Jews

The magazine examines the practice of circumcision in other cultures, noting its prevalence among Muslims, though not explicitly mandated by the Quran. It highlights its ancient roots in Africa and its presence in some indigenous American cultures, often linked to initiation rites. The article also mentions that female genital mutilation exists in some cultures where male circumcision is practiced.

#### Implementing Jewish Circumcision

This part details the practical aspects of performing a Jewish circumcision (milah, peri'ah, mezizah), emphasizing the need for anatomical knowledge to avoid complications. It mentions historical concerns about infection transmission and the traditional practice of 'mezizah' (sucking the wound).

#### Medical Benefits and Drawbacks of Circumcision

This section reviews the historical arguments for and against circumcision, dating back over 200 years. It notes that while some historical proponents claimed medical benefits, including prevention of phimosis and related issues, the magazine also presents counterarguments and evidence of complications, such as syphilis transmission. The article concludes by stating that there is no scientifically reliable evidence for the benefits of circumcision, and performing it on a healthy individual for non-medical reasons is ethically questionable.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, a consistent theme of critical inquiry and evidence-based reasoning prevails. The magazine champions skepticism as a tool to dissect pseudoscientific claims, question unsubstantiated medical practices, and analyze historical and religious traditions with a discerning eye. The editorial stance is clearly against the uncritical acceptance of alternative medicine, paranormal phenomena, and rituals lacking scientific justification. The detailed examination of circumcision underscores this approach, presenting its historical and religious significance while rigorously questioning its purported medical benefits and ethical implications in modern contexts.

This issue of Skeptikko, dated 4/2002, delves into a variety of topics ranging from the fundamental nature of time and physics to critical examinations of medical practices and pseudoscientific claims. The magazine features articles that challenge conventional wisdom and promote a skeptical approach to information.

The Nature of Time

The cover story, "What is time really?", explores the concept of time through the lens of physics, featuring insights from Professor Kari Enqvist. The article discusses how time, while seemingly intuitive, is difficult to observe directly and is intrinsically linked to motion and space. It traces the evolution of understanding time from an absolute Newtonian concept to the relative, observer-dependent framework proposed by Einstein's theories of relativity.

Einstein's Relativity and the Redefinition of Time

Professor Enqvist explains how Maxwell's equations laid the groundwork for understanding electromagnetism and light as waves traveling at a constant speed. Albert Einstein's 1905 paper, 'On the Electrodynamics of Moving Bodies,' revolutionized physics by proposing that the laws of physics are the same for all non-accelerating observers and that the speed of light in a vacuum is constant, regardless of the observer's motion. This led to the Special Theory of Relativity, which posits that time and space are not absolute but are relative to the observer's frame of reference. Time dilation and length contraction are consequences of this theory, becoming significant at speeds approaching the speed of light.

General Relativity and Gravity

The article further explores Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, which describes gravity not as a force but as a curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy. This theory explains phenomena like the precession of Mercury's orbit and the bending of light by massive objects, which Newtonian physics could not fully account for. The concept of singularities, such as those found in black holes and possibly at the beginning of the universe (the Big Bang), is also discussed.

The Limits of Time and Space

Enqvist touches upon the challenges of reconciling General Relativity with quantum mechanics, leading to the concept of quantum gravity. At extremely small scales (Planck length and Planck time), spacetime may become fuzzy or non-existent, suggesting that time might be an emergent property rather than a fundamental aspect of reality, observable only at larger scales.

Critique of Ritual Circumcision

Another significant article critically examines the practice of ritual circumcision. It questions the purported health benefits, citing that since 1830, only licensed mohels were allowed to perform circumcisions in Reininmaa. The article references historical arguments for circumcision and counters them with claims of ongoing infant deaths due to complications. It also mentions legal efforts in the US by men seeking compensation for damages related to circumcision. The author argues that without reliable scientific evidence of benefit, the practice should be abandoned, and calls for rigorous, randomized studies to determine its actual risks and benefits.

The 'Utele-Theory' and Scientific Scrutiny

The magazine also features an analysis of the 'Utele-theory' proposed by Jorma Saarni. This theory attempts to replace Einstein's famous E=mc² equation with E=gm, suggesting a maximum gravitational constant. The article scrutinizes this theory by comparing its predictions to established physical phenomena, such as the perihelion precession of Mercury and the bending of light by the Sun. It concludes that Saarni's theory fails to adequately explain these observations, which are well-accounted for by Einstein's theories of relativity. The author emphasizes that scientific theories must be testable, reproducible, and mathematically sound, and that Saarni's model falls short on these criteria.

Telepathy and Skepticism

A personal account describes the experience of perceived telepathy, where the narrator claims to hear others' thoughts. This experience leads to social isolation and questioning of reality. The author reflects on the nature of communication and the potential for such abilities to be exploited, while also expressing a preference for non-telepathic forms of communication like books and television.

The Huuhaa Award and Pseudoscience in Medicine

Jukka Häkkinen, chairman of Skepsis ry, discusses the Huuhaa award, which is given annually to individuals or groups who promote pseudoscience. In this issue, the award is given to medical professionals who use alternative medicine methods, such as electroacupuncture. Häkkinen expresses concern that patients who trust doctors might be subjected to unproven therapies, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based medicine and scientific scrutiny of all medical practices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Skeptikko consistently promotes a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding the world. It challenges pseudoscientific claims in medicine and physics, encourages critical thinking, and highlights the importance of scientific rigor in theory development and practice. The magazine's stance is clearly in favor of established scientific consensus, particularly in physics and medicine, while remaining open to rigorous investigation of novel ideas.

Title: SKEPTIKKO
Issue: 4/2002
Date: 2002
Publisher: Skepsis ry
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of SKEPTIKKO critically examines various alternative health practices and pseudoscientific claims, focusing on diagnostic methods like Elektroakupunktuuri (EAV), the purported mystical properties of water, and the principles of homeopathy and water energization.

Skepsis Awards the Huuhaa-palkinto

The issue begins by detailing the justifications for Skepsis ry awarding the 2002 Huuhaa-palkinto (Nonsense Prize) to doctors who employ unproven methods in healthcare. The magazine contrasts these with scientifically validated treatments used in official healthcare, which are based on evidence from large-scale patient studies. It highlights the concern over medical professionals using unscientific methods and devices, such as electroacupuncture devices, which claim to diagnose illnesses, test drug suitability, and identify food allergies or deficiencies. The article specifically criticizes electroacupuncture devices for relying on simple skin conductivity measurements, which it deems worthless for determining health status. The use of such unproven methods in diagnosing and treating illnesses is considered irresponsible, and Skepsis aims to draw the attention of health authorities to the dangers posed by these unscientific diagnostic tools.

Elektroakupunktuuri (EAV) - A New Diagnostic Method?

This section delves into Elektroakupunktuuri (EAV), a method marketed for diagnosing diseases and allergies before symptoms appear, potentially making clinical examinations and lab tests redundant. EAV was developed by German physician Reinhold Voll in the 1970s, building upon traditional Chinese medicine and theories of 'energy currents' in the body. Voll's devices measure electrical resistance at acupuncture points. The method has spread, with various modifications like BFD, SEG, NBT, EHT, DDG, Microcancer Test, and Vega-Test.

The article notes the increasing presence of EAV in Finland, initially promoted at alternative medicine fairs and later covered by newspapers. EAV devices are marketed with claims of diagnosing reactions to over a thousand harmful substances within seconds and selecting the most suitable medication. Courses for EAV practitioners are offered, costing around 100 euros for a six-hour session.

The diagnostic process involves a patient holding a negative electrode while the practitioner touches 'acupuncture points' on the patient's body with another electrode, reading a resistance meter. The devices use a weak current (around 10 microamperes) at low voltage (0.1-2 volts). More advanced devices connect to computers for diagnosis and treatment advice, but often the readings are interpreted by the practitioner alone.

Interpretation of EAV Results

According to EAV theory, lower skin resistance indicates 'excess energy due to inflammation,' while higher resistance signifies 'energy deficiency from fatigue or organ degeneration.' The devices are also claimed to identify suitable medications, with the meter reading supposedly increasing when a patient holds a medication that suits them. This method is frequently used to test the suitability of homeopathic remedies.

EAV's Spread and Limitations

EAV devices are claimed to diagnose various conditions, including inflammation, even when other methods show no signs. A sudden change in the meter reading during measurement is interpreted as a 'focal point of infection' (tutipesiäke), which could be an old scar, a tooth with an amalgam filling, or an inflamed appendix. EAV proponents suggest it can help when conventional medicine fails to identify the cause of ailments, offering explanations for digestive issues, allergies, and immune system weaknesses.

However, the article strongly refutes the scientific validity of EAV. It points out that the device is essentially a simple ohmmeter and that its readings can be influenced by factors like skin moisture, pressure applied by the practitioner, and subcutaneous fat. A study by Michiel Klein Breteler on 37 patients with confirmed coronary artery disease found that EAV diagnostics were unreliable, with only 50.7% of patients with actual blockages being correctly identified, and a significant number of healthy individuals being incorrectly diagnosed with blockages.

EAV-Device Costs

The cost of EAV devices varies. The LISTEN device was priced at 42 pounds for a measurement in England, with the device itself costing around 15,000 pounds in the early 1990s. In Finland, devices like the MORA analyzer are sold for over 3,300 euros. Another system, BEST System, is marketed for identifying toxins, food sensitivities, microbes, and determining vitamin and mineral levels, with a measurement costing 100 euros.

Effectiveness of EAV

The article asserts that the effectiveness of EAV devices has not been scientifically proven. It concludes that EAV is an ineffective and potentially harmful scam, given its unscientific mechanism and lack of clinical evidence. The explanation of its mechanism is considered highly dubious.

Water Mysticism and Pseudoscience

This section explores the pseudoscientific claims surrounding water, including its alleged mystical properties and the concept of 'water memory' used in homeopathy.

The Mystical Nature of Water

Engineer Pertti Laine discusses water's chemical properties, noting its high boiling point and low freezing point. He touches upon its symbolic significance in Western religions, particularly in baptism. Laine also references ancient Finnish and Karelian beliefs where water was considered a powerful element for healing and purification, often associated with spirits and deities.

Homeopathy and 'Water Memory'

Laine explains homeopathy as a practice involving extreme dilutions of substances, often to the point where no original molecules remain. Homeopaths believe that water retains a 'memory' of the original substance, which allows it to exert a therapeutic effect. This concept is referred to as 'potentization.'

However, Laine states that studies have found no difference between homeopathic water and regular tap water. He questions how homeopathic remedies can work if no original molecules are present, suggesting that the 'memory' of water is a pseudoscientific explanation. He mentions the discredited research of Jacques Benveniste in the late 1980s, which claimed to demonstrate 'water memory,' but was later found to be based on flawed experiments and falsified data, partly funded by homeopathic companies.

Water Energization Devices

The article critiques devices that claim to 'energize' water. Johann Grander's technology, for example, is described as using 'information transfer' to enhance water properties without adding or removing anything. The marketing materials for Grander technology suggest that the 'informational water' within the devices transfers positive properties to regular water. The article notes a change in Grander's explanation of his technology over time, from using magnetic motors to 'strengthening natural magnetism' to a focus on 'information transfer.'

Peter Gross and 'Living Water'

Physicist and engineer Peter Gross claims that water contaminants can be detected by their electromagnetic vibrations using spectrometry. However, the article points out that Gross misunderstands spectrometry, which identifies elements but not electromagnetic vibrations. Gross also promotes the concept of 'living water,' which he claims contains 'interaction quanta' and 'bio-photons,' and is ideal for biological processes. The article questions whether Gross's claims are based on sound scientific principles, especially in light of the high child mortality rates in regions with poor water quality.

Laser Treatment of Water

The article discusses experiments in Finland and Kazakhstan using lasers to 'purify' water bodies and enhance plant growth. Dentist Heikki Tammisalo is mentioned for his work in purifying water bodies with lasers. The concept of 'bioresonance' and the idea that water has a structure and 'memory' are discussed, with claims that laser treatment can restore this structure and remove harmful information.

Silver Water (Colloidal Silver)

Silver water, or colloidal silver, is presented as a substance claimed to destroy a large number of microbes. While its use in treating infections is promoted, the article raises concerns about its potential toxicity and the variability in its concentration. It notes that while silver has historical uses in medicine, its widespread adoption was hindered by cost and side effects like skin discoloration. The article also points out that some silver water products tested contained microorganisms themselves and that the claimed antibacterial effects in laboratory settings do not necessarily translate to safe internal consumption.

Super-Ionized Water

Another pseudoscientific concept discussed is 'super-ionized water,' claimed to have extra electrons and to have cured breast cancer. The article dismisses these claims, stating that the process of ionization is chemical and that water molecules are electrically neutral, not magnetic. The concept of 'energizing' water is broadly dismissed as 'complete nonsense.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SKEPTIKKO are the critical examination of alternative medicine, pseudoscience, and health scams. The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of scientific evidence, rigorous testing, and validated methods in healthcare. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of claims that lack empirical support, highlighting the potential dangers and financial exploitation associated with unproven therapies and diagnostic tools. Skepsis aims to educate the public and health professionals about the lack of scientific basis for many alternative practices, advocating for evidence-based medicine.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, dated 4/2002, celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Keski-Suomen skeptikot (Central Finland Skeptics) group. The cover prominently features this milestone, highlighting the organization's decade of activity.

Keski-Suomen Skeptikot: 10 Years of Skepticism

The lead article details the history and activities of the Keski-Suomen skeptikot, which began as the Jyväskylä Skepsis working group in 1992, inspired by a visit from James Randi. The group was co-founded by Otto Mäkelä and the late Kari Saari. Over the past decade, they have organized three to five lectures and discussion events annually. Their tenth-anniversary event was themed "Four Perspectives on Faith Healing." The event featured presentations by Professor Emeritus Veikko Näntö (clinical chemistry), Sociologist of Health Markku Myllykangas, and Physicist Juha Merikoski. The discussions covered the definition and origins of faith healing, reasons for its continued popularity, and the scientific methods of acquiring knowledge. The article notes that while scientific achievements are undeniable, faith healing retains a following, often due to a misunderstanding of scientific principles. The cost-effectiveness of treatments is also a factor, with a push to include faith healing in public healthcare despite its unproven efficacy. The audience actively participated, sometimes accusing skeptics of rigid thinking. Despite a smaller-than-expected turnout, the event was considered successful, receiving coverage on two local radio stations. Keski-Suomen skeptikot plan to continue their lecture series, with information available on the Skepsis ry and Keski-Suomen skeptikot websites.

UFO Pictures: Real or Not?

This article, written by UFO researcher Risto K. Järvinen, examines the authenticity of UFO photographs. Many photos submitted to Suomen Ufotutkijat ry are found to be misidentifications of known phenomena or photographic errors. Some individuals intentionally create fake UFO images. Sami Laitala of Suomen Ufotutkijat ry explains that understanding photographic equipment, techniques, and processes can reveal inconsistencies in manipulated images. Laitala, with 25 years of experience in photography, has experimented with image manipulation. He details various techniques, including altering light, exposure, film sensitivity, and development processes. Masking, bending, and chemical treatments during printing can also create anomalies. Common contaminants like dust, hair, and bubbles can also contribute to perceived UFOs. The article lists basic techniques used by hoaxers, such as double exposure, time exposure, photographing through glass (with drawings or reflections), and using models. Laitala emphasizes that understanding the context of the photo, including the lighting and shadows, is crucial. He also notes that unusual reflections in windows, like a 'UFO' lamp, can be explained by double-glazed windows. The article includes a photograph of a manipulated image created by the Skeptikko editorial team, simulating a UFO by reflecting a flashlight off a double-glazed window.

The Burden of Proof and Truth

Petteri Arola's article "Knowledge and Truth" delves into philosophical concepts of truth. He defines knowledge as justified true belief, emphasizing that truth is not absolute but rather a criterion for correspondence with reality. Sensory evidence confirms our knowledge but does not guarantee absolute certainty. Arola discusses two theories of truth: the correspondence theory, where a statement is true if it corresponds to reality, and the coherence theory, where a system of statements is true if it is logically consistent. He favors the correspondence theory. The article also addresses Descartes' "Cogito, Ergo Sum" (I think, therefore I am) as a foundation for existence and the necessity of language and senses. Arola acknowledges the possibility of being deceived by an external agent but ultimately believes in the existence of true and false things in the world, with sensory evidence being the ultimate arbiter.

"Am I a Skeptic?" - Mikko Hyvärinen's Journey

This section features an interview with Mikko Hyvärinen, a new board member of Skepsis. Hyvärinen recounts his childhood fascination with UFO books and the writings of Rauni-Leena Luukanen. At fifteen, he began to question the veracity of printed information, losing interest in UFOs. A second turning point was his encounter with alternative medicine, which he initially dismissed as harmless but later recognized as a widespread phenomenon. He joined Skepsis in 1997 after searching for critical information online. Hyvärinen, who is studying lighting technology, notes the prevalence of pseudoscience even in his field, citing examples of lamps marketed with unsubstantiated health claims, such as preventing cancer or improving endocrine function. He expresses concern about the potential harm caused by alternative medicine, stressing that such products should be safe and effective, and their efficacy should not be left to consumer discretion. He identifies himself as a "caffeine-free" skeptic, preferring reasoned debate over arguments. He acknowledges that some people, even highly educated ones, hold unusual beliefs, and it's important to approach discussions with respect, avoiding dismissive labels like "hoaxer" unless there is clear evidence of deception for financial gain. Hyvärinen also shares a personal anecdote about seeing a "snowman" in Meilahti, which he later rationalized as a possible perspective error or a tree, and a superstitious habit of tapping his old computer to get it to start.

Are Skeptics Emotionless?

This section addresses a letter questioning whether skeptics have feelings and if these can be scientifically proven. Jukka Häkkinen, chairman of Skepsis ry, responds by stating that science does not offer absolute truths but rather estimates and theories that help structure reality. He clarifies that while scientists are human and can err, science is the best system for systematic knowledge acquisition. Regarding the burden of proof, Häkkinen explains that the claimant must provide evidence, not the skeptic. He clarifies that Skepsis ry does not claim UFOs don't exist but rather that there is no conclusive evidence for them. He asserts that feelings are indeed a subject of scientific study, citing the vast number of articles on "emotion" in scientific databases. He emphasizes that while science is logical, it does not preclude the study of emotions.

Meeting Announcement

A meeting announcement for Skepsis ry's regular spring meeting on March 5, 2003, is included, detailing the agenda and upcoming lectures.

Book Review: "Juoppohullun astrologia" (The Drunkard's Astrology)

This review discusses Juha Vuorinen's book, which recounts the author's experiences with alcoholism, relationships, and a brief foray into astrology. The reviewer notes the book's raw language and its parodic elements, particularly concerning its engagement with fringe topics. The review highlights an encounter with an astrologer named Tähtinen, who assigns the protagonist astrological traits. The protagonist, a self-proclaimed "modern Odysseus," dismisses the astrological assessment. Following this, he decides to study astrology himself, creating a crude "horo-scope" based on his friends' self-descriptions and his own observations. The review includes humorous and offensive excerpts from this self-made horoscope, describing the typical traits of zodiac signs in a vulgar manner.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical thinking, the scientific method, and the debunking of pseudoscience and paranormal claims. The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical approach to extraordinary claims, emphasizing the importance of evidence and reasoned argumentation. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific inquiry and rationalism, while acknowledging the complexities of human belief systems and the limitations of scientific knowledge. The issue also highlights the activities and growth of the skeptical movement in Finland, showcasing personal journeys into skepticism and addressing common misconceptions about skeptics.

This issue of Skeptikko magazine, dated 4/2002, is published by Skepsis ry, a Finnish organization dedicated to promoting skepticism and scientific investigation of paranormal claims. The magazine features a variety of articles, reviews, and organizational information.

Articles and Reviews

Zodiac Signs and Personality

The issue begins with a satirical and critical examination of zodiac signs, attributing exaggerated and negative traits to each sign. For example, Cancers are described as overly emotional and clingy, Leos as sadistic bullies, Virgos as cold and emotionless but good bus drivers, Libras as skilled prostitutes, Scorpios as highly intuitive, and Sagittarians as alcoholics with horse-like features. Capricorns are portrayed as old-fashioned and risk-averse, while Aquarians are depicted as liars and Pisces as imaginative but harmless daydreamers.

Book Review: 'Isabelin (pitkä) tie valaistumiseen' by Isabel Lorada

This review discusses Isabel Lorada's autobiographical book, which chronicles her journey from a cynical individual to a proponent of personal development and New Age practices. The reviewer notes Lorada's exploration of various self-help disciplines, including Tai Chi, tantric sex, and angel courses, while maintaining a skeptical yet open-minded perspective. The review highlights the book's humor and its insight into the New Age movement, suggesting it offers a meaningful life path rather than objective truth.

Book Review: 'Juoppohullun päiväkirja' by Juha Vuorinen

This review of Juha Vuorinen's book offers a humorous and critical take on various fringe topics, including Feng Shui, humanoids, and yoga. The reviewer quotes humorous and often crude passages from the book, illustrating its satirical approach to these subjects. The book is recommended for its curiosity value, with the reviewer noting that it is written in a way that even a hardened skeptic might find amusing.

"Eräs selitys 'ufokuvioillle'" (A Explanation for 'UFO patterns') by Risto K. Järvinen

This article debunks the idea that crop circles are evidence of alien spacecraft. It explains that these circular patterns in fields are caused by a subterranean fungus that produces a toxin killing the vegetation in rings. The article notes that while the fungus itself is harmless, its blooming cycle can create these formations.

"Vedenpaisumus Mustallamerellä?" (Flood in the Black Sea?) by Jukka Häkkinen

This piece discusses research by Bill Ryan and Walter Pitman suggesting that the biblical flood narrative might have a historical basis in the Black Sea. Their theory posits that a massive flood occurred when sea levels dropped during the ice age, turning the Black Sea into a freshwater lake that later refilled. However, the article also presents newer research from the journal Science that questions this theory, suggesting a more gradual influx of saltwater into the Black Sea around 9000 years ago, rather than a sudden flood.

"Äiti Teresan ihme epäilyksen alla" (Mother Teresa's miracle under doubt)

This short report addresses the controversy surrounding the canonization of Mother Teresa. It mentions that Indian doctor Manzur Murshed claims his patient, Monica Besra, was pressured by the Catholic Church to attribute her recovery from a stomach tumor to a miracle by Mother Teresa, when in fact, the recovery was due to hospital treatment.

"Viewpoints on circumcision" by Esko Länsimies

This article argues that if proponents of ritual circumcision justify it with health reasons, they should be prepared for rigorous, randomized, and prolonged scientific studies to prove its benefits and disadvantages. The author stresses that if circumcision offers no rational benefits, it should be abandoned. The piece also touches on the idea that matters that cannot be proven true or false can be used to undermine ethical norms.

"Electroacupuncture - new diagnostic method?" by Veijo Saano

This article questions the claims made about electroacupuncture as a new diagnostic method. It describes how this method is advertised as being able to diagnose illnesses, test medication suitability, and detect allergies, potentially making clinical assessments and other diagnostic tools unnecessary. The author expresses skepticism about such a seemingly too-good-to-be-true claim.

"Humbug-prize to doctors using belief-based medicine" by Risto K. Järvinen

This article discusses the Skepsis prize, which is awarded for scientifically verified treatments. It highlights that in public healthcare, only treatments with evidence of efficacy are used, based on large patient trials. The article implies that there have been cases where medical professionals have used unscientific methods and equipment, such as electroacupuncture devices.

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

This section promotes the book 'Paholaisen asianajajan paluu,' a guidebook for skeptics published by Skepsis and URSA. It describes the book as a critique of superstition and pseudoscience, similar to the first edition published in 1989. The book is available in bookstores and at Skepsis events.

Organization Information

Skepsis ry

The magazine provides extensive information about Skepsis ry, including its founding in 1987, its mission to promote objective scientific research into paranormal claims, and its activities such as publishing the Skeptikko magazine, organizing meetings, and maintaining a network of skeptics. It details the organization's statutes, board members for 2003, regional contact persons, and its scientific advisory board. The organization is politically, ideologically, and religiously unaffiliated.

Membership and Subscriptions

A membership application form for Skepsis ry is included, outlining the annual membership fee for 2003, which includes a subscription to Skeptikko magazine. Information is also provided for ordering the magazine as a non-member. The form requests personal details, professional background, and any relevant interests or affiliations.

Skepsis Challenge

The magazine announces a challenge offering 10,000 euros to anyone who can produce a paranormal phenomenon under controlled conditions. Contributions from Hannu Karttunen and Iiro Seppänen are mentioned, and the challenge is also extended to humanoids for a 'humanoid stipend.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Skeptikko are skepticism towards paranormal claims, critical examination of popular beliefs and pseudoscientific practices, and the promotion of scientific methodology and critical thinking. The editorial stance is clearly one of advocating for evidence-based reasoning and debunking unsubstantiated claims, whether they relate to astrology, UFOs, or alternative medicine. The magazine actively engages with and critiques various fringe topics, providing a platform for scientific discourse and rational inquiry.