Will you be there?

17th October 2022

In just over a month we’re having the gathering of the year - this year’s in-person skeptics conference - our first since 2019.

We’d love to see you at this year’s conference, where we’re planning a jam-packed weekend of talks, entertainment and socialising. Join us and hang out with like-minded people

When:

25th to 27th of November. Our weekend starts with an evening of puzzles, comedy and fun at a local pub. Then there’s an entire weekend of skeptical talks from knowledgeable, engaging speakers. And, if you’re not tired after the first day of talks, there will be an opportunity to join other skeptics for an informal meal at a local restaurant on Saturday evening.

Where:

Tararua Tramping Club in central Wellington, just off Kent and Cambridge Terraces

Early bird rate of just $99 for the entire weekend, which includes lunch and morning and afternoon tea! ($109 from November)

Tickets and more information on the conference website. Hope to see you there!

In this week’s newsletter, I take a look at Alex Jones and the astounding judgement against him, I take a look at the good news from the Centre for Inquiry about homeopathic products, and look at election result claims. Bronwyn continues her look into Dr. Bronner’s magic soaps.

Craig Shearer

Alex Jones Judgement

Craig Shearer - 17 October 2022

Alex Jones Judgement

We've covered Alex Jones many times in the past. Alex Jones is a fairly well-known far-right radio show host and conspiracy theorist. Most skeptics will be aware of his InfoWars website, which promotes conspiracy theories and certified-real fake news.

Homeopathic product placement

Craig Shearer - 17 October 2022

Homeopathic product placement

I'm encouraged by news from the Center for Inquiry (CFI), a skeptical organisation in the US. They are suing the CVS and Walmart pharmacies for their placement of homeopathic products alongside real efficacious medical products.CFI refers to Homeopathy as “Fake Medicine”, which it surely is.

Election result claims

Craig Shearer - 17 October 2022

We've talked about the local body elections over the past couple of months, and now the results are in. Local freedom, anti-vax and conspiracy theory group Voices for Freedom tried to sway the elections by encouraging their members and supporters to stand but hide their affiliations.

Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps - Part 2

Bronwyn Rideout - 17 October 2022

Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps - Part 2

In Part 1, I hoped to have painted a picture of Dr. Bronner as an Ideas man above all else. Sure, he had the skills necessary to make a decent soap product but it was secondary to his message. His family came a distant third to that same message while operational requirements of running the whole Dr. Bronner's magic soap outfit came fourth.