1967 04 07 Science - Vol 156 No 3771 - W T Powers

Magazine Overview

This document is a collection of letters published in a magazine, dated April 7, 1967. The primary themes revolve around the analysis of UFO reports, the human condition, and the interplay of biology, history, and technology. The letters engage with scientific and historical perspectives, questioning societal values and the interpretation of phenomena.

Analysis of UFO Reports

William T. Powers, from Dearborn Observatory at Northwestern University, responds to previous letters concerning UFOs. He supports the idea that a lack of scientific attention has contributed to the disrepute of UFO reports. Powers argues that the best UFO reports, when taken at face value, suggest extraterrestrial intelligence and cannot be easily explained away as mere misinterpretations, hallucinations, or hoaxes. He notes that the UFO phenomenon is not homogeneous, citing over 200 reports in 1954 concerning landings with occupants, many of which were witnessed by multiple people. Powers dismisses the idea that all UFO reports can be explained by visual 'reflexes' or contemporary technology, as historical accounts show similar phenomena interpreted through the lens of the technology of their time (e.g., Ezekiel's flying throne, medieval chariots, or the 1896-97 'airship' wave). He stresses that reports must be studied directly from witnesses and original documents, as they fall into distinct classes with different potential explanations.

Biology and the Human Condition

Harriet Moss offers a perspective on biology and the human condition, responding to a hypothesis about sex and reproduction. She argues that conceiving, bearing, and rearing children are integrated components of female sexuality, with men participating but not out of biological necessity. Moss posits that if the importance of the family diminishes and mothers must take sole responsibility for offspring, society could regress to a primitive matriarchy. She suggests that even with genetic controls, life under such a minimal economy would negate the benefits of heightened natural ability. Moss believes that assisting people to rear children in environments that offer the expectations of complex communities could effect humane stability, especially given the threat of population explosion. She concludes that efforts to improve the world economy might be contributing to moderation in population increase.

Historical and Philosophical Perspectives

Another contributor introduces the thoughts of historian Elting E. Morison, brother of biologist Robert S. Morison. Elting E. Morison emphasizes the importance of intelligence as a defining human characteristic, aligning with Whitehead's view that societies not valuing trained intelligence will perish. However, he also stresses that man is defined by his affections—his capacity for rapture and despair—and that these affections have their own independent claims and influence. He argues that man functions not just by thinking but by feeling, and the interaction between intelligence and affections defines the 'human condition.' He warns that societies that do not value the 'educated heart' will also fail. Morison also expresses caution regarding the use of computers, suggesting that their limits may be less obvious than those of earlier technologies, which would break down or stall when overloaded or abused. He implies that computers used in ignorance or stupidity might not provide the same clear limits to human error.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The letters collectively highlight a critical engagement with unexplained phenomena (UFOs) and fundamental aspects of human existence (biology, society, intelligence, affections). There's a recurring theme of questioning conventional scientific dismissal of UFO reports and advocating for rigorous, evidence-based analysis. The issue also delves into philosophical considerations about what constitutes humanity and the societal structures that support or undermine it. The editorial stance appears to encourage open discussion and a multidisciplinary approach to complex subjects, valuing both scientific inquiry and historical perspective.