Psychics Challenged

Keith Lockett - 1 November 1986

NZSCICOP recently challenged psychics to put their abilities to the test under controlled conditions. Colin Amery of Auckland took up the challenge. Mr Amery claims to be skilled in telepathy, clairvoyance, and Tarot reading. He was tested in the Otago University Psychology Department in March this year, claiming that he is "50% successful" in telepathy and "80% successful" in Tarot reading.

An Open Letter to All New Zealand Skeptics

David F. Marks - 1 November 1986

Our recently founded "Skeptics Society" is growing fast. We now have almost 50 paid-up members through the country and, by the time this reaches you, we should be a legally incorporated Society. Through individual and media communications NZCSICOP is providing a counterbalance to the ever-increasing number of paranormal claims. The response from the media has to date been most receptive and encouraging, and NZCSICOP seems to be fulfilling a genuinely-felt need for a rational and skeptical approach to magic, myth, and mystery. It has been a pleasant surprise to encounter many hard-nosed skeptics in the media and perhaps they too have grown weary of the psychics and mediums who seem to claim all but demonstrate nothing.

Some Recent Publications

1 November 1986

Carison, S. A double-blind test of the astrology hypothesis. Nature, December 5, 1985, 318, 419-425. Two double-blind tests were made of the thesis that astrological 'natal charts' can be used to describe accurately personality traits of test subjects. Despite using highly regarded astrologers, despite incorporating their suggestions into the design, and despite the fact that they approved the design, astrology failed to perform at a level better than chance. The astrological hypothesis was clearly refuted.

Application for Membership

1 November 1986

Is there any manner in which you would be able to assist the Committee in furthering the aims of NZCSICOP? (e.g. providing expert opinion, public presentation, fund-raising, media contacts, newsletter contributions, etc.)?

Skeptical Inquirer

1 November 1986

A great gift for relatives and friends (Gifts to your local library are tax deductible.)