1975 00 00 Journal of Popular Culture - Vol 8 No 4 - John Keel

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Journal of Popular Culture, specifically pages 872-880, features an article titled "The Flying Saucer Subculture" by John A. Keel. The article delves into the history, development, and key figures associated with the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects (UFOs), commonly known as 'flying saucers'.

The Pre-1966 Landscape

Before 1966, the article states, UFOs were largely ridiculed by the press and dismissed by the scientific community. The available literature was primarily semi-literate and privately published, often authored by hobbyists, individuals with psychological issues, or 'contactees' claiming direct communication with alien beings. Despite a significant furor and controversy surrounding UFOs for two decades, credible scientific or literary research material was scarce.

Defining the Phenomenon

Dr. Edward U. Condon's definition of an unidentified flying object is presented: it is something seen in the sky or on the ground that the observer cannot identify as having an ordinary natural origin and which is puzzling enough to warrant a report to authorities or organizations studying such objects.

Historical Waves of Sightings

The article notes that there have been periodic worldwide 'waves' or 'flaps' of UFO sightings throughout history. In earlier times, these were often interpreted as religious phenomena. The modern phase of UFO sightings began in 1896-97 with reports of large, unknown 'dirigibles' in the United States. A notable earlier sighting occurred on January 24, 1878, in Texas, where a farmer named John Martin described an object resembling a 'saucer'. The term 'flying saucer' gained popular usage in the summer of 1947, following a sudden outbreak of sightings across North America, notably after pilot Kenneth Arnold described his encounter near Mt. Ranier, Washington.

Periods of Flying Saucer Literature

Flying saucer literature is divided into three main periods, each following a major sighting wave by a year or two:

• 1950 Period: Following the 1947 flap, this period introduced the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH), suggesting UFOs were visitors from outer space.
• 1955-56 Period: This period advanced the ETH by incorporating contactee testimonies and introducing the theme of a governmental conspiracy by the U.S. Air Force to suppress 'the truth'.
• 1966-69 Period: This era marked a return to rationality, with a new generation of scientists and journalists examining UFO lore, rejecting much of it, and producing more valid literature.

Key figures from the 1950s included Donald E. Keyhoe, Frank Scully, Frank Edwards, Morris K. Jessup, and George Adamski. Contributors to the 'New Ufology' of the 1960s included Vincent Gaddis, Dr. Jacques Vallee, Ivan T. Sanderson, John Fuller, and Eugene Olson (writing as Brad Steiger). The British journal *Flying Saucer Review* also played a role.

The Paradox of Respectability

Ironically, as the flying saucer myth began to be 'nullified' by more reliable case histories and technical information, and as the subject gained acceptance for study by scientists and sociologists, the original believers found themselves excluded. The goal of UFO organizations had been to achieve respectability, but this acceptance led to a shift in focus.

Scope and Statistics

The scope of the UFO phenomenon is vast, with thousands of sightings recorded annually worldwide. Dr. David Saunders, a psychologist at the University of Colorado, had programmed 50,000 documented sightings for computerization. Dr. Jacques Vallee also compiled statistics on thousands of sightings in Europe and the United States. For years, cultists focused on proving the reliability of sightings rather than determining the actual stimuli.

Social Scientists' Perspectives

Some social scientists have superficially studied the problem, often confusing UFO believers with witnesses. Buckner (1965) suggested that UFO belief attracted the elderly, lonely, and philosophically disoriented. Meerloo (1968) equated belief in flying saucers with a 'need for miracles', a view echoed by Warren (1970).

The Nature of Witnesses and Cultists

Contrary to stereotypes, UFO witnesses come from all age groups and societal levels. Condon (1969) found that only about 10 percent report sightings due to fear of ridicule. For some, the experience is intensely personal. The 'hardcore flying saucer cultist', however, is a distinct personality. A 1969 poll of 250 'ufologists' showed a median age of 31, with teen-agers and housewives being active groups. These individuals often seek identity, are isolated, or are dealing with marital problems. Ufology provides an 'ego trip', offering local expertise and a sense of importance, often fueled by a belief in a conspiracy against the truth.

The Ufological Population and Publications

The ufological population is small compared to the number of witnesses. During major flaps, dozens of UFO newsletters and magazines appeared, typically with a short lifespan and low circulation. *Ray Palmer's Flying Saucers*, founded in 1957, had a peak circulation of 14,000 in 1967 but later dropped to 2,000 paid. Organizations like the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), founded in 1952 by Mrs. Coral Lorenzen, had limited membership. Only a few small UFO journals survived the 1966-69 period.

Categories of Hardcore Ufologists

The hardcore ufologists are divided into three groups:

1. Super-hardcore: About fifty people, mostly late teens and early twenties, who publish newsletters, contribute articles, and are the most vocal.
2. Hardcore: Those who subscribe to publications and generally support the first group.
3. Pure believers: The largest group, who buy books, attend lectures, and follow contactees.

Personality Types and Beliefs

The article suggests that the hardcore believer may not have seen a UFO and tends to be over-skeptical of other phenomena, exhibiting a suspicious nature. They may project their own perceived flaws onto witnesses. Scientism often dominates the UFO movement, with a materialistic worldview and difficulty with abstractions or philosophy. Personality types at UFO conventions are described as obsessive-compulsive and paranoid-schizophrenic. The author posits that the flying saucer myth could not have perpetuated without such personalities.

Charles Fort and the Fortean Legacy

Charles Fort, a novelist, compiled a book of scientific anomalies called *The Book of the Damned*, covering phenomena like raining frogs, teleportation, and floating objects. His work, initially rejected, was eventually published and he is considered the 'father of ufology'. The International Fortean Organization (INFO) continues his legacy.

The 1947 Flap and Early Investigations

When the 1947 flap occurred, reporters lacked sources. The U.S. Air Force, initially ignorant, assigned the Air Technical Intelligence Command (ATIC) to investigate. Tiffany Thayer used his magazine *Doubt* to promote his conspiracy beliefs. National magazines commissioned writers to investigate, and Charles Fort's books became influential.

Keyhoe, Wells, and the ETH

Major Donald E. Keyhoe, influenced by Fort, concluded UFOs were extraterrestrial, a view that contrasted with Fort's. H.G. Wells' novel *The War of the Worlds* is mentioned as a precursor to the idea of alien visitors. Keyhoe's conclusion that UFOs must be from other planets due to their superior maneuvers became a central tenet for many.

The Shaver Mystery and Ray Palmer

In 1944, *Amazing Stories* magazine published Richard Shaver's "I Remember Lemuria," which described an underground 'Secret Commonwealth' of 'Dero' (detrimental robots) controlling humanity. This story, a variation on themes from H.G. Wells and A.A. Merritt, generated immense public interest and letters from readers claiming similar experiences, leading to the 'Shaver Mystery' and a surge in the magazine's circulation.

Ray Palmer's Later Ventures

After a disagreement over an all-UFO issue, Palmer co-founded *Fate* magazine, which covered Fortean and paranormal phenomena. He later launched *Flying Saucers* magazine in 1957, advocating the Hollow Earth Theory, a concept suggesting the Earth is hollow with flying saucers entering from holes at the poles. This theory has a long history, with figures like Symmes promoting expeditions to the Earth's center.

Government Response and Project Grudge

Initial government concern about UFOs stemmed from fears of Soviet technological advancements. ATIC reportedly prepared a secret 'Estimate of the Situation' in 1948, concluding UFOs were extraterrestrial. However, Air Force Chief of Staff General Hoyt Vandenberg rejected this, ordering the estimate burned due to lack of evidence. ATIC then prepared Project Grudge (1949), a report that dismissed UFOs as atmospheric phenomena, mistakes, or hoaxes, setting the official Air Force policy for two decades.

Conspiracy Theories and Keyhoe's Influence

Thayer and Keyhoe viewed Project Grudge as confirmation of a conspiracy. Keyhoe's book *The Flying Saucers are Real* (1950) posited that Earth had been under observation for centuries, intensified after the 1945 atomic explosions. Gerald Heard's *The Riddle of Flying Saucers* (1950) also supported the ETH. Frank Scully's *Behind the Flying Saucers* (1950) claimed a UFO crash and recovery of alien bodies, but its sources were exposed as unreliable, and Scully later apologized.

Public Opinion and Scientific Skepticism

Despite the efforts of Keyhoe and others, 1950 opinion polls showed fewer than five percent of the population believed in extraterrestrial visitors; most suspected secret weapons. Astronomers, physicists, and anthropologists were universally negative about the ETH, questioning the possibility of extraterrestrial life and the feasibility of space travel.

The 'Dark Age' of Ufology

ATIC abandoned UFO research after Project Grudge, and flying saucers seemed officially dead. Sidney Shalett's 1949 series in *Saturday Evening Post* presented the AF's case against UFO evidence. The subject was largely dismissed as a fad, except by a few 'cranks' and impressionable individuals. Professor Herman Oberth was an exception, offering occasional positive statements about the ETH.

Resumption of Investigations and Project Blue Book

In 1951, the Pentagon ordered a resumption of UFO investigations. ATIC established Project Blue Book, headed by Captain Edward Ruppelt, who cooperated with Keyhoe and others to feed new cases into the AF files. The 1952 wave of sightings over Washington, D.C., led to national headlines, but the Pentagon explained them away as natural phenomena. Hollywood entered a 'flying saucer cycle' with films like *The Thing* and *The Day the Earth Stood Still*.

The ETH Gains Traction

Despite the lack of hard evidence, the mounting sightings led many to accept the ETH. Arthur C. Clarke, in the early 1950s, questioned the physical behavior of UFOs, finding it defied physics. He explored psychic phenomena and theology, publishing *Childhood's End* (1953), a novel that anticipated ufology's later engagement with these themes.

Scientific Opposition and Fortean Influences

Harvard astronomer Dr. Donald Menzel, an advisor to the AF, dismissed UFOs as mirages and air inversions in his 1953 book *Flying Saucers*. He was viewed with distaste by ufologists. Major Keyhoe countered with *Flying Saucers From Outer Space* (1953), drawing from USAF files. Project Blue Book members became ETH enthusiasts. A 1953 CIA-convened panel reviewed Project Blue Book evidence but remained unconvinced, suggesting tighter security and public downgrading of UFO information. This led to Keyhoe's sources being cut off, ushering in a 'Dark Age of ufology'.

Conspiracy and Suspicion

Tiffany Thayer's suspicions of a government effort against ufologists were confirmed. UFO sightings were explained away as meteors or air inversions, and Project Blue Book became a public relations effort with flawed statistics. The UFO community became convinced of a government cover-up. Albert K. Bender founded the International Flying Saucer Bureau in 1952, but later became secretive, hinting at government interference. Gray Barker's book *They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers* (1956) popularized the idea of government surveillance.

The Conspiracy Era and its Impact

Major Keyhoe's *The Flying Saucer Conspiracy* (1955) and Frank Edwards' claims of being fired for discussing UFOs fueled the conspiracy narrative. This orientation appealed to individuals with paranoid leanings and extreme political views, leading to infighting and suspicion within the UFO community. Organizations like NICAP and APRO became antagonistic.

Dr. Leon Davidson and the Cold War Hoax Theory

Dr. Leon Davidson concluded that the UFO phenomenon was a Cold War hoax created by the CIA. Many rational individuals left the movement, leaving it to 'cranks, publicity-seekers and paranoiacs'.

Breakthroughs and Statistical Studies

Despite the chaos, Captain Edward Ruppelt's *The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects* (1956) provided a breakthrough with insights into AF UFO cases. In 1955, the USAF released Project Blue Book Report Number Fourteen, a statistical study by the Battelle Memorial Institute, which attempted to support the USAF's negative stance on UFOs. This was the first statistical study of its kind.

Morris K. Jessup and Fortean Connections

Morris K. Jessup, an astrophysicist, gained prominence with *The Case for the UFO* (1957), linking various Fortean phenomena, including ancient structures, to flying saucers and levitating rays.

The Varo Edition and Religious Implications

A copy of Jessup's book, annotated by various individuals, was sent to the Office of Naval Research (ONR). A naval subcontractor, Varo Corporation, retyped and distributed a limited edition of the book with the annotations. Jessup also explored the religious implications of UFO phenomena in *UFO and the Bible* (1956). His subsequent suicide in 1959 was viewed with suspicion by cultists.

Other Notable Books and Literature Categories

Other significant books from the 1955-56 period included *Space, Gravity and the Flying Saucers* by Leonard G. Cramp, *Flying Saucers on the Attack* by Harold T. Wilkins, and *You Do Take It With You* by R. DeWitt Miller, which explored links between mysticism and psychic phenomena. David Flick criticized UFO books in *Library Journal* for being sensationalist. UFO literature developed into categories such as anecdotal sightings, conspiracy theories, origin theories, and contactee stories, with a notable lack of scientific literature.

Ancient Contacts and Legends

The article briefly touches on ancient accounts, such as Enoch's excursions and Emmanuel Swedenborg's experiences, suggesting they might be early forms of 'contactee' experiences. Legends of 'Sky People' in isolated cultures are also mentioned as integral to many religions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The article consistently highlights the evolution of UFO belief from ridicule to a complex subculture involving conspiracy theories, psychological profiles, and a struggle for scientific legitimacy. It appears to adopt a critical yet analytical stance, dissecting the historical development, key figures, and underlying psychological and social factors that have shaped the 'flying saucer subculture'. The editorial stance seems to be one of historical documentation and critical examination of the phenomenon and its literature, rather than endorsement of any particular theory.

This document, titled "THE FLYING SAUCER SUBCULTURE," is a section from the "JOURNAL OF POPULAR CULTURE," issue number 881-890, dated 1968. It delves into the history, key figures, and cultural impact of the flying saucer phenomenon.

Early Beliefs and Indigenous Accounts

The article begins by noting that beliefs in extraterrestrial visitors predate modern UFO sightings, citing examples from Native American "Kachina people" and biblical references like Ezekiel's "wheel." It also mentions the appearance of strange lights on the night Joseph Smith unearthed the "metal plates" of the Book of Mormon.

The Dawn of Modern Ufology (19th Century)

Modern ufology is traced back to the 1860s with William Denton of Massachusetts, who claimed telepathic and astral projection experiences with visitors from Venus. His books gained popularity, and he became a sought-after lecturer. In the 1890s, Helene Smith in Geneva, Switzerland, became known for her "psychic adventures" with Martians, which were studied by parapsychologist Theodore Fluornoy.

Spiritualism and Early Contactees (Early to Mid-20th Century)

During the spiritualism craze of the 1800s and 1920s, entities from other planets reportedly materialized at seances. In 1946, Dr. Meade Layne, a West Coast parapsychologist, began making contact with "space people" through a spirit medium. By 1950, Layne had accumulated extensive conversations, which he published in a pamphlet titled "Flying Discs-The Ether Ship Mystery and Its Solution." This material suggested that UFOs were not from other planets but from another space-time continuum.

The Rise of the Contactees (1947-1950s)

Between 1947 and 1950, rumors of UFO landings and contacts circulated. Despite the acceptance of flying saucers as tangible machines, many UFO believers were hesitant to accept landings and alleged contacts, a phenomenon noted by Sanderson in 1967. Contactees often self-published their accounts due to a lack of mainstream attention. Notable publications included William Ferguson's "A Message from Outer Space," W. V. Grant's "Men in the Flying Saucers Identified," Cecil Michael's "Roundtrip to Hell in a Flying Saucer," and George Hunt Williamson's "The Saucers Speak."

Key Figures and Controversies

William Denton documented early extraterrestrial visitations and disappeared enigmatically in the early 1960s after an expedition to South America. The 1955-56 period saw contactees gain more attention. Cedric Allingham's "Flying Saucers from Mars" and Daniel Fry's "The White Sands Incident" were notable. George Adamski emerged as the most famous and controversial contactee, producing UFO photos and claiming encounters with Venusians. Howard Menger also claimed regular landings on his farm and gained celebrity status through radio appearances.

Backlash and Skepticism

The emergence of contactees led to a backlash of ridicule, nearly undermining ufology. Professional writers and publishers largely avoided the subject between 1956 and 1965. Exceptions included Major Keyhoe's "Flying Saucers: Top Secret" (1960), which detailed NICAP's efforts for a congressional investigation, and Colonel Lawrence J. Tacker's "Flying Saucers and the U. S. Air Force" (1960), which explained the Air Force's negative stance. Dr. Menzel and Lyle G. Boyd's "The World of Flying Saucers" (1963) also contributed to the skeptical viewpoint.

Maintaining Interest and Factions

Despite the lull, interest was maintained by publications like "Fate" and "Ray Palmer's Flying Saucers" magazine. The UFO believers splintered into various factions, some adhering to interdimensional theories, others to Hollow Earth concepts, and many to various contactees. Lesser cults often overlapped with the psychic field.

The "Long Lull" and Renewed Interest (1960s)

During a period of reduced activity, the hardcore flying saucer cultist population diminished. However, two privately printed books emerged: Mrs. Coral E. Lorenzen's "The Great Flying Saucer Hoax" (1962), advocating the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), and Richard Hall's "The UFO Evidence" (1964), a compilation of sightings. Flying saucer sightings returned to headlines in March 1966 with a major flap. John Fuller's "Incident at Exeter" (1966) offered a rational look, while Frank Edwards' "Flying Saucers: Serious Business" became a bestseller, creating a surge in publisher interest.

Academic and Scientific Engagement

Hack writers rehashed existing material into paperback potboilers. The U. S. Air Force, under pressure, granted Colorado University $500,000 for an investigative project headed by Dr. Edward U. Condon, which ultimately collapsed. Project Blue Book was closed in December 1969, signaling a potential end to the "flying saucer era."

European Contributions and New Perspectives

While American ufology was often divided, European researchers made progress. Brinsley Le Poer Trench examined historical material and produced books linking UFO phenomena to psychic phenomena. Aime' Michel studied French sightings and landings, noting the phenomenon of "Orthoteny" (straight-line paths of objects). John Michell studied ancient grids and their connection to aerial objects. Ivan T. Sanderson attempted to define the complex situation and suggest research guidelines.

The "New Ufology" and Cultural Impact

Raymond W. Drake and Paul Misraki suggested that ancient religious and occult events were influenced by UFO phenomena, a concept popularized by Erich Von Daniken's "Chariots of the Gods." The "scientific ufologists" battled with contactees, while European investigators observed the contact situation, with some, like Charles Bowen and Gordon Creighton, suggesting demonological rather than interplanetary origins. The story of Betty and Barney Hill, who reported a UFO abduction and examination, was popularized in "Look" magazine, encouraging more "silent" contactees to come forward.

Propaganda and Cultural Influence

Brad Steiger investigated "revelations" from angels, demons, and "spacemen," finding consistent messages regardless of the frame of reference. The article posits that ufology has been more of a propaganda movement than a scientific one, developing myths and suppressing correlations with psychic phenomena. The flying saucer myth influenced Hollywood and spurred the development of "exo-biology." A 1966 Gallup Poll indicated significant public belief in flying saucers and government suppression of information.

The Role of the Hobbyist and Future Directions

The article notes that the role of the UFO hobbyist has changed, now supplementing the work of researchers like Dr. David Saunders and Dr. Vallee. The shift in literature is moving from causes and beliefs to history, mythology, philosophy, and theology, though these subjects may lack popular appeal. The ranks of cultists are thinning, with some moving to ontology and psychic or religious organizations. The "New Ufology," as proposed by Vallee, Keel, and Steiger, focuses on understanding the mechanisms of belief rather than perpetuating the beliefs themselves, though this path may also lead to philosophical questions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes include the historical roots of UFO beliefs, the evolution of contactee narratives, the tension between believers and skeptics, the influence of ufology on popular culture and science, and the ongoing debate about the nature and origin of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be analytical and historical, presenting the development of the subculture and its various facets without overtly endorsing or dismissing the claims. It highlights the shift from a focus on physical evidence to an examination of belief systems and cultural influences.

This document, titled "THE FLYING SAUCER SUBCULTURE," is an excerpt from the "JOURNAL OF POPULAR CULTURE," specifically pages 891-896. It appears to be a scholarly or journalistic examination of the history, key figures, organizations, and debates surrounding the UFO phenomenon, primarily focusing on the period from the 1950s through the 1970s.

Key Figures and Organizations

The text extensively references numerous individuals and groups involved in ufology. George Adamski is mentioned as having died in 1965, with a report of a UFO landing in England the day after his death, identifying the pilot as 'Yamski.' Daniel Fry, founder of Understanding, Inc., is noted as being active on the lecture circuit. Albert Menger is described as having had second thoughts about his space experiences and publicly recanting on a television program.

Organizations such as NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) and APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization) are discussed in the context of their cooperation (or lack thereof) with the Colorado University UFO investigation, led by Dr. Condon. Dr. Condon himself is characterized as having a strong anti-UFO stance, even attempting to prevent an AAAS symposium on UFOs. Philip Klass is presented as a skeptic who promoted a plasma theory for UFOs and wrote critically about UFO believers.

Other notable individuals mentioned include John Dean, who wrote "Flying Saucers Close Up"; John Fuller, a humorist who wrote about UFOs; John Lear, an anti-UFO science editor; Edwards, whose success in publicizing the UFO subject was short-lived; Jacques Vallee, who supported the ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) and later became an exponent of the 'paraphysical' theory; Vincent Gaddis, author of "Invisible Horizons"; and Ivan T. Sanderson, who was involved with the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU).

Historical Incidents and Theories

The text alludes to specific incidents, such as the alleged photograph of a spaceman taken by Allingham. It also mentions the 'Varo document' and people claiming to be Carlos Allende, its alleged author, and Allende's widow. The debate surrounding the 'orthoteny' concept, a critical point for Dr. Donald Menzel, is also noted.

The issue touches upon various theories, including the 'paraphysical' theory and the 'plasma theory' proposed by Philip Klass. It also references the historical context of UFO sightings, drawing parallels to earlier fairy sightings and suggesting that the fairy concept might have been a constructed frame of reference.

Publications and Research

A significant portion of the document is dedicated to a comprehensive bibliography of books, articles, and publications related to flying saucers and UFOs. This list includes works by many of the figures mentioned, such as Adamski, Fry, Menger, Menzel, Keyhoe, Ruppelt, Vallee, and Keel. It also lists various organizations involved in UFO research and publications, providing their addresses and editors.

Skepticism and Scientific Debate

The document highlights the polarized nature of the UFO debate, with scientists often choosing sides. It mentions Dr. J. Allen Hynek's involvement with Project Grudge and his later shift towards advocating for a full-scale scientific study of the UFO phenomenon. The conflict between UFO cultists and skeptics is described as eclipsing earlier debates. The text also notes the scientific consensus that life does not exist elsewhere in our solar system, based on satellite and radar data.

Copyright and Public Funds

An interesting point raised is Colorado University's copyrighting of the Condon report, which is presented as unusual for documents prepared using public funds. This suggests a potential controversy or proprietary interest in the findings of the investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are the history of ufology, the key personalities and their contributions (both proponents and skeptics), the organizations involved in research and advocacy, and the scientific and cultural impact of the flying saucer phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of detailed historical and critical analysis, presenting various viewpoints and references without necessarily endorsing any single one. The extensive bibliography suggests a commitment to thorough research and documentation.