[BryceM]

Geez Art, are you bored or what?

As I understand it, some guy somewhere in Asia "invented" a "machine" that produces magic pixie dust called Penac. As I recall, it's supposed to align the "energy" of the molecules or some similar explanation. Per my own knowledge of science, physics, and biology, it's 100% pure hogwash. Mostly what the machine does is make money for its snake-oil owner.

Now, the same sort of thinking lies behind magnetic bracelets, weigh-loss formulas, and 99% of the other non-FDA approved human "supplements" sold on TV. As a scientist, I can's see any merit in it beyond the ability to take advantage of gullible people with money to throw around. Many people swear by all sorts of nonsense "miracle cures". The placebo effect and one's desire to see a benefit that doesn't exist cannot be underestimated - especially in a desperate person.

People in Asia will call me naive, out of touch with nature, and insensitive to my inner energy whatchamacallit.

Whatever.

 

[BryceM]

Yeah, it's probably a cultural clash as much as anything. Scientists universally have a hard time understanding beliefs and opinions that are not founded in facts and figures. Of all of the planted aquarium ideas that we've borrowed from the Germans and Japanese, this stuff is at the bottom of the list.

 

[BryceM]

In the end, of course, this is a circular argument. The scientists will demand to know what is in Penac. The "believers" will state that science isn't capable of understanding the benefit. We could discuss this until the cows come home.

:deadhorse

And Art, the Internet never stopped being a crazy thing between nerds. It's just that the entire planet jumped on the nerd ship last time it came to port.