In the arguments for and against being definitively skeptical, the social climate and moral responsibilities of skepticism are often overlooked. This is an abridged version of the after-dinner speech given at this year's NZCSICOP Conference.

In a memorable encounter, National

Christopher Urswick, was almoner (an alms-giver or medieval social worker) to Henry VIL. His account of the king's run-in with an astrologer was repeated, with glee, by Erasmus.

The debate over how "dry" a skeptic should be in promoting skepticism does not appear to take into account the dangers of ridicule in hardening the very views we are attempting to counter. This is particularly so in schools, where both teachers and pupils have things to learn.

Fundamentalists suffer contortions in trying to make their assumptions fit Biblical accounts.

A medical degree is not a shield against quackery, but better understanding of the scientific process may help doctors and their patients to better evaluate treatments.

Gentlemen attending the most recent Christchurch meeting of NZCSICOP unselfishly agreed to give of their all for their country. They have member Lawrence Livingstone to thank for the suggestion.

Myocardial infarction (heart attack, coronary thrombosis) is commonly caused by a blood clot blocking one of the three coronary arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. It is the commonest cause of death (4,000 p.a.) in New Zealand and other Western countries. Specialists have long wondered whether early administration of a fibrinolytic (blood clot dissolving drug) would reduce mortality.

WELLINGTON (PA) — The death of a 5-month-old baby had uncovered an appalling picture of a parent's belief in homeopathic medicine, a coroner said.

A diabetic girl died in Wellington Hospital after her parents stopped her supply of insulin in the belief that she had been healed by a Christian faith healer, coroner Erica Kremic said in the coroner's court here.

The Minister of Civil Defence, Mr Lee, believes that the Bible, written almost 2000 years ago, predicted the increasing prevalence of earthquakes today.

An Auckland 'doctor has been struck off the medical register for "disgraceful conduct", the Medical Council said yesterday.

by V. J. Hewitt & P. Lorie; Bloomsbury Press, 1991; $49.95

James Randi is being pursued by Uri Geller in the US courts, to gag his outspoken comments on the "paranormal" performer. The cost of Randi's defence is frightening, and NZ Skeptics were quick to contribute to his defence fund.