AFU Newsletter - No 05 - 1976

Magazine Overview

This issue of NYHETSBLAD, Volume 2, Number 5, published from January to March 1976 by Arbetsgruppen för ufologi (AFU) in Sweden, focuses on the evolving landscape of ufology and reviews significant UFO-related literature and organizational activities.

A "New" Ufology?

The lead article, "En 'ny' uhologi?" (A 'new' ufology?), discusses the aftermath of the 1969 Condon Report. It notes that while the report's negative conclusions provided a convenient exit for the US Air Force from UFO investigations (leading to the closure of Project Blue Book), subsequent analysis by professionals has led to a more cautiously positive opinion in some research circles. The article contrasts this with past criticisms of authorities and highlights a current trend towards more intensive research and documentation. It suggests that ufologists should now focus on developing their own investigations and collaborating with interested professional researchers, rather than engaging in futile criticism of official 'research attempts.'

AFU's Activities and Library Services

The issue provides contact information for AFU (Arbetsgruppen för ufologi), including addresses and phone numbers for Kjell Jonsson (library) and Anders Liljegren (editor). It details the annual membership fee of 20 SEK, which grants access to book lists and the Nyhetsblad. AFU operates entirely on volunteer work and gratefully accepts donations of books, magazines, press clippings, or financial contributions to expand its library.

Book Reviews

1. John A. Keel: The Mothman Prophecies

Reviewed by Anders Liljegren, this book by John A. Keel is discussed in detail. Keel, known for his controversial ideas, posits that UFOs are not extraterrestrial craft but rather 'transmogrifications of energy' caused by ultraterrestrial entities. He links these phenomena to historical accounts of religious miracles, demonology, and encounters with 'little people,' suggesting a common source. The review notes Keel's focus on the psychological and spiritual aspects of these encounters, drawing parallels with ancient myths and archetypes. The book is recommended as an important contribution to the new UFO debate, particularly for its exploration of the 'Mothman' phenomenon in West Virginia and its connection to the Silver Bridge collapse.

2. Jerome Clark & Loren Coleman: The Unidentified

This review, translated from 'The News' by Robert J M Rickard and presented by Håkan Blomquist, introduces a book that aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the UFO phenomenon. The authors are praised for their in-depth research, which includes interviews and archival material. The book reportedly examines the 'contactee' phenomenon, noting patterns such as strange behavior, quasi-religious philosophies, and detailed, sometimes implausible, accounts from contactees. Clark and Coleman suggest parallels with fairy mythologies and other supernatural experiences, proposing that these phenomena stem from a deep, subconscious drive for spiritual union, as described by C.G. Jung. The review highlights the book's exploration of 'ultraterrestrial' beings and the potential for psychic energy to manifest phenomena beyond normal perceptions of time and space.

3. David Michael Jacobs: The UFO Controversy in America

Reviewed by Anders Liljegren, this book is hailed as the first authoritative history of the UFO controversy in the USA. Jacobs, an associate professor of history, bases his work on extensive interviews and archival research. The review notes that the book balances official reports with the perspectives of UFO enthusiasts, highlighting the 'positive' aspects often associated with American UFO research. It criticizes past UFO investigations for focusing too much on the 'vehicle' aspect and neglecting the broader context of the phenomenon. The review points out that the book details the shift in focus from UFOs to the Air Force's role, particularly following the Condon Report, and notes a positive trend in UFO research in the 1970s, with younger scientists taking a more grounded approach.

UFO Organizations and Activities

The issue provides updates on various Swedish UFO organizations:

• UFO-Sverige: The national meeting was held in Örebro, with Köpings UFO-Förening elected as the new central group. The organization's magazine, 'UFO-Information,' has seen a significant increase in subscribers. Various local groups have organized information evenings and study circles.
• Köpings UFO-Förening: This group has been active in organizing information evenings and has made its slide show available for other groups. They have also established a telephone answering service for UFO observations.
• Västerås Tvärvetenskapliga Förening (VTF): A new UFO-Sverige group formed in late 1975, VTF has organized information evenings and plans to establish study circles and theme nights. They also publish a journal called 'Vimana.'
• Gävle UFO-Förening: Another new organization, formed on the initiative of Roland Östlund, had a successful start with an information evening.
• Karlskoga: Ove Lewitzki, in collaboration with TBV, has initiated study circles on UFOs, with plans to form a local UFO association.
• Skara: Björn Lippold led a study group organized by Vuxenskolan.
• Kosmologiska Vättergruppen i Huskvarna: This group holds meetings every Tuesday, with every other meeting dedicated to ufology.

Book Front News

A section lists recent UFO-related books published in English and French, including titles by Raymond W. Drake, Flammond, Michael Hervey, and Claude MacDuff.

Clippings and Comments

This section includes brief notes:

• A course on 'Conditions for Life in the Universe' at Uppsala University is mentioned, which includes a section on 'Flying Saucers.'
• An article in the Swedish police magazine 'Svensk Polis' references a New York police publication, advising police officers not to dismiss UFO witnesses to encourage reporting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the evolving nature of ufological research, the critical analysis of UFO literature, and the organizational activities of UFO groups in Sweden. The editorial stance appears to be in favor of serious, scientific investigation into the UFO phenomenon, moving beyond mere speculation or criticism of authorities. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of documentation, research, and collaboration with professional scientists. The reviews of Keel's and Clark & Coleman's books suggest an openness to unconventional theories that explore the psychological and archetypal dimensions of UFO experiences, while Jacobs' book is lauded for providing a historical overview of the UFO controversy in the US. The overall tone encourages a more mature and systematic approach to ufology.