BOOK AND FILM REVIEWS: The Definitive Treatment: Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects

Magazine Overview

This issue of The Physics Teacher, Volume 7, Issue 6, published in September 1969, features book and film reviews. The primary focus is on the "Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects," commonly known as the Condon Report, conducted by the University of Colorado under contract to the United States Air Force. The review is authored by Melba Phillips of the University of Chicago.

Book and Film Review: Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects

The review begins by contextualizing the surge in interest in UFOs and the "pseudo-science" surrounding them, noting claims of extraterrestrial civilizations. It recounts a peculiar anecdote about an individual claiming to be an agent from the "Third Universe" seeking a contract for flying saucer technology. The review also mentions Donald E. Keyhoe, a retired Marine Corps officer and founder of the National Investigations Committee for Aerial Phenomena (NICAP), who promoted the idea of interplanetary machines.

The core of the review addresses the Condon Report's findings regarding the extra-terrestrial hypothesis. Phillips highlights that the report dismisses this hypothesis because it requires setting aside laws of physics, ignoring the harsh conditions on other planets, the immense distances between stars, and the challenges of atmospheric entry and high-speed flight without sonic booms. While acknowledging that astronomers and biologists believe intelligent life elsewhere is certain, the report finds communication between stars virtually impossible and states there is no convincing evidence for "extra-terrestrial actuality" of any UFOs.

The review notes that the Condon Report is a readable summary and that its cases often read like detective stories, though not always with clear solutions. It points out that some cases are left unsolved, while others involve outright fraud. A significant portion of the review discusses the unreliability of witness reports, with Professor William K. Hartmann's analysis of UFO photographs indicating that approximately a quarter are fabrications, a quarter misidentifications, a quarter lack sufficient information, and only a small percentage are genuinely puzzling.

Beyond specific cases, the report covers scientific topics relevant to UFOs, including atmospheric electricity, ball lightning, tornado lightning, and the difference between bolides and meteors. It also provides an account of UFOs in history, tracing reports back to Biblical times.

The Condon Report's conclusion that "further extensive study of UFOs probably can- not be justified in the expectation that science will be advanced thereby" is presented as controversial, having been misunderstood and denounced. However, the report does not entirely rule out future research, stating that "any scientist with adequate training and credentials who does come up with a clearly defined, specific proposal for study should be supported."

Key recommendations for further research related to UFOs are in atmospheric optics (including radio wave propagation) and atmospheric electricity, areas where current knowledge is incomplete. The review also includes a special warning against using sensational UFO books and magazines in schools, as they can be harmful by retarding critical thinking and the development of a scientific faculty.

Book Review: The Graphic Work of M. C. Escher

In addition to the Condon Report review, the issue includes a review of "The Graphic Work of M. C. Escher" by Lester G. Paldy of the State University of New York at Stony Brook. This book is described as a welcome replacement for an out-of-print edition. Escher's work is characterized by geometric symmetry, the concept of infinity, and the interplay between two and three-dimensional objects, involving notions of topology. The reviewer suggests that students interested in physics and mathematics, as well as those with a flair for drawing, will enjoy the seventy reproductions. Paldy recommends that teachers might consider cooperating with art teachers to develop themes suggested by Escher's work and notes that the book is modestly priced.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the critical scientific examination of UFO phenomena, as exemplified by the review of the Condon Report. The editorial stance, as reflected in the review, is one of skepticism towards extraordinary claims lacking empirical evidence and adherence to established scientific principles. The review emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, scientific rigor, and the responsible use of information, particularly in educational contexts. The inclusion of the M.C. Escher book review suggests an appreciation for interdisciplinary connections between art, physics, and mathematics, and a broader interest in intellectual pursuits beyond the immediate UFO topic.