Alpha - No 01 - 1979 03-04

Magazine Overview

Title: ALPHA
Issue: 1
Date: March/April 1979
Price: 60p
Publisher: Pendulum Publishing Co Ltd
Country: UK
Focus: Probes the Paranormal

This inaugural issue of ALPHA magazine sets out to explore a wide range of unexplained phenomena, from UFO sightings and psychic abilities to the mysteries of life after death and metal bending. The magazine positions itself as a platform for investigating these topics with a focus on evidence and truth, welcoming both believers and sceptics.

Key Articles and Features

The Pilot Who Never Came Back: Frederick Valentich

The lead story details the baffling disappearance of young Australian pilot Frederick Valentich on October 21, 1978, during a flight from Melbourne to King Island. His final radio transmissions, transcribed in full, describe an encounter with an unidentified craft exhibiting unusual lights and speed, which he stated was 'not an aircraft.' The article explores various theories, including disorientation and a potential hoax, but highlights the lack of wreckage and the corroborating sighting by an independent witness, Col Morgan, as deepening the mystery. Valentich's family also reported previous UFO sightings.

Special Report: The Geller Effect

This section delves into the phenomenon associated with Uri Geller, including a report on 'a new twist to metal bending.' It features contributions from Professor Taylor, who is described as having changed his mind and become a sceptic, and Alpha's researchers assessing Taylor's paper. The report aims to provide a comprehensive look at Geller's claims and the scientific scrutiny they have undergone.

Margo Williams: Picking Up Voices From The Past

The magazine features an in-depth interview with Margo Williams, a housewife from the Isle of Wight, who claims to receive daily messages from people who have been dead for centuries. Her husband, Wally, meticulously researches the scripts to verify the identities of the communicators. The article discusses the implications of this mediumship for the understanding of life after death and reincarnation, noting that some communicators provide warnings about future events, including a potential world war in 1998. Dr. John Beloff, a parapsychologist, has examined her work.

Psychic Detectives and the Genette Tate Case

This article examines the role of psychics in assisting police investigations, using the disappearance of 13-year-old Genette Tate as a case study. It notes the numerous false leads provided by individuals claiming psychic information and details a special research group's efforts to find clues. The use of hypnosis in recalling information is also discussed, highlighting its limited acceptance in Britain.

The Dragon Project: Investigating Ley Lines

Paul Devereux, editor of 'The Ley Hunter,' is featured for launching a scientific survey to investigate megalithic sites and the theories of 'ley lines' – invisible straight lines connecting ancient sites. The Dragon Project aims to use geological, surveying, and scientific analysis, alongside dowsers and psychics, to gather evidence for these ancient alignments and their potential energy significance.

News Items

• Several short news items cover various paranormal topics:
• Australian TV crew films UFO over New Zealand: A report on a filmed UFO sighting in New Zealand, detected by both visual and radar, with speculation about its nature.
• Untimely end of 'Philip': The death of 'Philip,' a fictitious entity created by a group in Toronto, who reportedly produced physical phenomena and communications, is noted.
• Kirlian Photography: The death of Semyon Kirlian, the discoverer of Kirlian photography, is reported, along with an explanation of the technique and its potential significance for psychic research in depicting 'auras' and physical manifestations of psychological states.
• Challenge for Researchers: Psychic Surgeons: The planned return of psychic surgeons David and Helen Elizalde to the UK is discussed, with an emphasis on the need for rigorous, medically qualified observation to verify their claims, especially in light of James Randi's demonstrations of sleight-of-hand.
• Premonitions Bureau: ALPHA is establishing a bureau to collect and collate premonitions of future events, inviting readers to submit their experiences for analysis and potential early warnings.
• Echoes of the Past: This piece explores the idea that past events might leave residual imprints, citing reports of the US Navy's hydrophone network picking up inexplicable noises in the ocean that could be echoes of World War II.
• New study of Borley Rectory: A research project funded by Trinity College, Cambridge, is investigating the history of Borley Rectory, known as the most haunted house in Britain.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on 'Alpha's premonitions bureau,' 'Echoes of the past,' and a book review section.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance, as outlined in the introduction, is to investigate the paranormal seriously and objectively. It aims to present evidence and differing viewpoints, rather than promoting specific beliefs. The introduction emphasizes that the magazine will tackle a wide range of phenomena, including those that may seem impossible, and seeks to get closer to the truth. The recurring themes include UFOs, psychic abilities, life after death, and the scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to be committed to providing a platform for detailed reporting and analysis of these subjects.

This issue of Alpha Magazine, identified by its issue number '9', focuses on extraordinary psychic phenomena, with the cover headline "Why Mr Spriggs caused chaos in Cardiff". The article delves into the remarkable case of George Spriggs, a young man from Cardiff, Wales, who possessed the ability to produce materialised phantoms. The magazine highlights the period around 1877-79 as the time of his most notable activities in Cardiff.

George Spriggs: The Cardiff Medium

The article details how George Spriggs, a boot and shoe repairer, could manifest spirits that were not merely apparitions but entities that could interact with the physical world. These phantoms were observed to walk around houses, visit shops to make purchases, and even engage in conversations. The phenomenon was different from typical seance room occurrences, as these spirits appeared to be fully formed and independent.

Sceptics suggested trickery, but the article emphasizes the numerous reputable witnesses who vouched for the authenticity of Spriggs' abilities. These witnesses included individuals who measured the spirits, noting their differing heights from the medium, and weighed them, finding them lighter than Spriggs himself. The seances were conducted under controlled conditions, with Spriggs often seated behind a curtain, making it difficult for accomplices to access the room.

Rees Lewis, a medium who lived nearby, discovered Spriggs and persuaded him to join the "Circle of Light," a Spiritualist group. After a period of automatic writing and clairvoyance, physical phenomena began to manifest, culminating in the production of these materialised spirits.

Witness Testimonies and Evidence

A Spiritualist publication, "The Medium," published an account on December 21, 1877, signed by 16 witnesses who observed the medium and a spirit simultaneously. A. J. Smart, a regular sitter, provided testimony about seeing numerous distinct forms of varying heights and builds appearing in rapid succession, sometimes even side-by-side with the medium. He also described how these forms could gradually dematerialise into a small white cloud before reappearing.

One particularly striking incident involved a tall Negro phantom that appeared, walked into the bedroom of Spriggs' sleeping grandson, and carried the child into the garden. Rees Lewis, who helped Spriggs develop his powers, described seeing spirits visibly clothed in white garments, dissolving into white clouds, and walking into rooms and gardens in broad daylight in the presence of visitors.

The seances held at Rees Lewis's home caused a disturbance to a neighbour, whose children were frightened, leading to a court injunction against the seances, which was ultimately dismissed.

Move to Australia and Later Life

In November 1880, George Spriggs relocated to Melbourne, Australia, where he continued to produce phantoms. W. Donovan, a former member of the Legislative Assembly of Victoria, witnessed his Australian seances for 18 months and later wrote "The Evidences of Spiritualism," detailing Spriggs' mediumship.

An extraordinary event in Australia involved a materialised spirit who requested materials to write a letter. After writing it, the spirit left the seance room to buy a stamp. Upon returning, the spirit noticed the shopkeeper had not given him change and went back for it. The letter was posted, and a reply was received and read aloud by the materialised man at a subsequent seance.

The power to produce phantoms eventually faded after six years. However, Spriggs, who never charged for his seances, continued to produce spirit voices. He also gained renown for his accurate medical diagnoses. Between 1903 and 1905, he returned to Britain and offered free medical advice through the London Spiritualist Alliance (now the College for Psychic Studies).

George Spriggs died at the age of 62 in 1912, marking the end of a significant chapter in psychic history.

Next Issue Preview

The magazine previews its next issue, which will feature the extraordinary powers of Etta Wreidt, who reportedly produced spirit voices out of the air.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly focuses on the phenomenon of materialisation and the authenticity of psychic mediums. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting compelling evidence and witness testimonies to support the reality of these extraordinary powers, while acknowledging the existence of scepticism. The narrative emphasizes the unusual nature of Spriggs' manifestations, particularly their ability to interact physically with the environment, and the rigorous conditions under which they were observed. The article aims to document and validate these historical accounts of psychic phenomena.

Title: THE GELLER EFFECT
Issue Date: November 1978
Publisher: Alpha
Country: United Kingdom
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Alpha magazine, titled 'THE GELLER EFFECT', delves into the controversial world of paranormal phenomena, with a particular focus on the claims and investigations surrounding Uri Geller. It presents a timeline of events, scientific challenges, and differing perspectives from researchers, skeptics, and those who claim to have experienced psychic abilities. The magazine also explores related topics such as UFO sightings, premonitions, and the scientific search for explanations.

The Story of Uri Geller

The issue chronicles events related to Uri Geller and other metal-benders from 1978 back to earlier years. It highlights challenges and tests, such as those involving James Randi, who controlled experimental conditions, and the failure of individuals like Julie Knowles and Jean-Pierre Girard to produce paranormal effects under scrutiny. Professor John Hasted's research involving children and sensitive strain gauges is detailed, noting his conviction in the reality of metal bending. Dr Andrija Puharich's claims of witnessing Uri Geller disappear and reappear are also mentioned. The controversy extends to accusations of fakery, with Geller's former manager, Yasha Katz, admitting to helping Geller fake phenomena and claiming non-payment. James Randi counters these claims by referring to other investigators who have allegedly caught Geller cheating.

Professor John Taylor's Research and Shift in Stance

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to Professor John Taylor's research and his evolving views. His paper published in Nature in November 1978, co-authored with Dr E. Balanovski, questions whether electromagnetism can account for extra-sensory phenomena. The research covered psychokinesis, metal bending, psychic healing, and dowsing. Taylor's experiments, conducted under strict conditions, found no evidence of metal bending or unusual electromagnetic signals. He concludes that paranormal phenomena, if they exist, must have an explanation consistent with known laws and forces, leaning heavily towards electromagnetism. The article notes Taylor's past endorsement of Geller and his subsequent retraction, highlighting his search for a scientific explanation, which he believes must be electromagnetic in nature.

Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives

Several academics offer their views on Professor Taylor's paper. Professor Arthur J. Ellison, President of the Society for Psychical Research, finds Taylor's conclusion that metal does not bend paranormally to be a result of his choice to disbelieve rather than a definitive proof. Harry Collins, a lecturer in Sociology, suggests that while the paper may lessen the credibility of the hypothesis that paranormal phenomena are mediated by electromagnetic radiation, it does not definitively disprove their existence, as other factors like personality might be crucial. Professor John Beloff criticizes Taylor's conclusion that the disproof of the EM hypothesis leads to the disproof of paranormal phenomena, arguing that it does not logically follow from the evidence.

Premonitions and Disaster Aversion

The magazine features an article on premonitions and their potential to avert disasters, using the Aberfan tragedy as a case study. Following the deaths of 140 people in Aberfan, Dr John Barker established the British Premonitions Bureau to collect and analyze premonitions. The article highlights the establishment of similar bureaus in California, focusing on monitoring earthquake premonitions in the San Francisco area. Dr Douglas Dean believes that by monitoring these premonitions, a gradual build-up can be detected, allowing for warnings to be issued before a major event.

Other Psychic Phenomena and Investigations

Beyond Geller and premonitions, the issue touches upon other aspects of psychic research. The 'Welsh tourist trap' section discusses UFO sightings in Broad Haven, Pembrokeshire, and how they were promoted as a tourist attraction. The connection between UFOs and 'ley lines' is explored, with an initial analysis suggesting a correlation in 47% of cases. David Furlong's discovery of interlocking ley circles is mentioned. The section on 'High-flying psi' notes the financial struggles of psychic research but highlights benefactors like James S. McDonnell. The article 'The man who changed his mind' further explores Professor John Taylor's journey from a believer in paranormal powers to a skeptic, examining his extensive research into phenomena like psychokinesis, metal bending, dowsing, and life after death.

Psychic Surgery and Spirit Photographs

Dr Margaret Mead's interest in psychic matters and her caution regarding practitioners using tricks is mentioned. The controversial exploits of Dr Andrija Puharich, including his claims of witnessing Geller's paranormal feats and his involvement in a psychic kidney transplant in Mexico, are discussed. The issue also recounts Roy Stemman's puzzling experience with psychic photographer John Myers, where an alleged 'psychic extra' of Hannen Swaffer appeared to be a reversed image of a painting by Myers himself, raising questions about potential fraud.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of evidence in paranormal research, the conflict between belief and skepticism, and the search for scientific explanations for phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various viewpoints and research findings while encouraging readers to question claims and consider alternative explanations. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodology and the need to rule out fraud and ordinary explanations before accepting paranormal interpretations. There is a clear interest in documenting the ongoing debate and research surrounding Uri Geller and other psychic phenomena, reflecting a desire to understand the boundaries of human potential and the nature of reality.

ALPHA magazine, issue 31, dated April 26, probes the paranormal with a wide range of thought-provoking features. Published by Pendulum Publishing Company Ltd, it is available for 60p.

Book Reviews

Spellcraft by Robin Skelton Leslie Kenton reviews Robin Skelton's book 'Spellcraft', which explores the human condition's urge to influence events through spells. Skelton, a poet and Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, examines various categories of spells, finding parallels in everyday life, legal oaths, and Christian prayers. He posits that spell-making is a learnable skill, involving telepathic messages and concentration. The review highlights Skelton's emphasis on the intention behind spells, warning against self-interest and curses, and suggesting that unselfish love spells are usually successful. The book offers practical advice on composing spells and developing a receptive state of mind, encouraging users to consider if their actions are creative and enhance human life.

Books about Dr Lang and George Chapman The magazine lists several books related to psychic healing, including 'Surgeon From Another World' by George Chapman, detailing the healing partnership between Chapman and Dr. Lang with evidence for life after death; 'Healing Hands' by J. Bernard Hutton, a skeptical journalist's account of being healed by Dr. Lang; 'Extraordinary Encounters' by George Chapman, featuring testimonies of people treated by the dead surgeon; 'The Return of Dr Lang' by S. G. Miron, an unqualified testimony from a dental surgeon; and 'The Psychic Healer's Handbook' by George Chapman, a manual on healing and psychic operations. These are available from The Lang Publishing Company Ltd.

Articles and Critiques

The Paranormal by Stan Gooch This section introduces Stan Gooch's book 'The Paranormal', described as a provocative study of phenomena that seem to lie outside cause and effect. It is presented as essential reading for believers and skeptics.

A Door to Eternity: Proving the Christos Experience by G. M. Glaskin This section introduces G. M. Glaskin's book, which examines the metaphysical implications of a technique for astral traveling and entering other dimensions.

Emotive rather than scientific statements Geoffrey Blundell, Managing Director of Audio Ltd, critiques the scientific approach of physicists Taylor and Balanovski regarding paranormal phenomena, particularly psychokinesis (PK). He argues that their focus on electromagnetic (EM) radiation as the sole explanation is limiting. Blundell points out that while EM radiation is involved in normal physical processes, it may not be the primary mechanism for paranormal events. He criticizes the authors for concluding that the absence of EM radiation would question the reality of the phenomena, calling these 'emotive rather than scientific statements'. Blundell suggests that the 'sensitive' might be influenced by the experimenter's suggestions, and that the focus on EM radiation might be a misdirection. He also notes that his own experiments suggest that metal bending without touch is associated with changes in electrical potential, which he finds ironic given Taylor's conclusions.

Taylor seems to evade the question... Dr. Ted Bastin, a physicist, analyzes Professor John Taylor's and Dr. Balanovski's experiments on psychokinesis (PK). Bastin outlines four assumptions made by Taylor: that PK occurs in the physical world, is governed by universal laws, that known laws are complete, and that differential effects on matter are electromagnetic. Bastin argues that Taylor's focus on EM radiation is flawed, particularly his dismissal of the possibility of other mechanisms or the role of intention. He questions Taylor's evasion of the reality of previously observed PK phenomena, such as bent metal, and suggests that Taylor's report is 'theory-laden' and does not provide sufficient information for a correct assessment.

This negative result could easily have been anticipated J. B. Hasted, Professor of Physics at Birkbeck College, University of London, critiques the work of Balanovski and Taylor on paranormal metal-bending. He finds their conclusion that EM waves emitted by a child do not cause the bending, and that it 'occurred in less than perfect conditions', to be easily anticipated. Hasted argues that if EM waves were involved, there would be significant physical effects like heat generation and potential danger to the children. He suggests that their effort could have been better spent exploring other diagnostic techniques for metal-bending, as other investigators are doing. He also notes that while electrical effects are involved in normal deformation, they may not be the primary cause of paranormal bending, and that the phenomenon challenges current physical laws.

Biofeedback and understanding the mind-body relationship This section highlights the role of electronics in measuring biofeedback, emphasizing its connection to the mind-body relationship, a concept known in Eastern traditions for centuries. Audio Limited offers a range of biofeedback instruments, including temperature meters, electrical skin resistance meters, a strobe light, and EEG/EMG meters, such as the Mind Mirror. They also offer a handbook on Electrical Skin Resistance (E.S.R.) for £1.25.

Classified Advertisements

The classified section includes advertisements for books on parapsychology, out-of-the-body experiences, psychic and spiritual dreams, survival, reincarnation, and Silva Mind Control courses. There are also listings for UFO cassette tapes and publications.

Upcoming Features

The next issue of ALPHA will feature 'The great UFO debate' (including a New Year sky spectacular over Australia and New Zealand, and a House of Lords debate), 'Ghost of Appuldurcombe House' (a psychic encounter on the Isle of Wight), 'Following the ley lines' (alignments of ancient sites), 'Korchnoi's Complaint' (examining alleged psychic powers use in a chess match), 'The man-made phantom' (conjuring a fictitious entity), and 'Dreams – what do they tell us?' (research with Montague Ullman).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of ALPHA magazine consistently explores the boundaries of scientific understanding, particularly in the realm of paranormal phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on critical analysis of scientific experiments related to psychokinesis and telepathy, questioning the assumptions and conclusions of researchers like Taylor and Balanovski. The magazine also showcases books and topics that bridge the gap between conventional science and alternative perspectives, such as psychic healing, spiritualism, and the mind-body connection through biofeedback. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider phenomena that lie outside the mainstream, while also demanding rigorous investigation and challenging potentially biased or 'theory-laden' approaches. The inclusion of book reviews and upcoming features suggests a commitment to providing a broad spectrum of information for both believers and skeptics in the paranormal field.