Dear bdavis,

Regarding this "exercise" as a litmus test for Qi-based exercises (Qigong,
Tai Chi, etc.), you would be wiser to disregard the "finger growth game"
as completely unimportant, in accordance to The23rdMan's advice, and I
consider it as a harmless gimmick. There's a lot of real benefit in
genuine Qi-based exercises. I practice Qigong and Tai Chi continuously,
and can personally vouch for the effectiveness of Qi-based exercises. I
consider the benefits of such exercises scientifically verifiable, and
numerous scientific studies vouch for its efficacy. Even without
appealing to anything mystical, Qi-based exercises are at the very least
deeply relaxing, centering, and enhances mental concentration and
imagination, thus they have direct, measurable physiological effects,
which are generally positive.

Regarding the ability to fool adults, don't even get me started on that
one! Fantastic examples of mature adults who are willingly being
fooled are just a few clicks away. And, yes, you're absolutely correct
that there SHOULD be some ethical/moral conscience, or at the very least,
legal constraints, to prevent the distillation and distribution of
bogus-ness. Perhaps Aussies are much more level-headed in this respect.
But here in America, well, P.T. Barnum said it best: There's a sucker
born every minute. Some other wise person chimed in: A fool and his
money are soon departed.

Oh, and please don't misinterpret my attitude: I don't write these
sentiments scornfully but rather with tremendous concern for our society.
I have learned, though, that whenever I try to elevate and educate those
stuck in unhelpful trances (with great respect and courtesy, I might add),
I'm rejected as antagonistic, closed-minded, and not worth their time and
energy. Oh well, I can only try to make a difference and hope that
through our interaction and sharing, the seeds of rationality will grow to
bear fruits of true freedom from bondage to ideologies which no longer
serve us well. I hope you will become someone who keeps his wits about
him at all times. Gain wisdom to discern the jewels from the junk, as
there is too much of the later in this world.

I wish you the very best in your journey, and please share your progress
with us!

HF