The Bent Spoon - Volume 1 No 05

Magazine Overview

Title: THE BENT SPOON
Issue: CLOSE ENCOUNTERS
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of The Bent Spoon, titled 'Close Encounters,' positions itself as a skeptical magazine for the 'true believer,' aiming to create a dialogue between those who believe in paranormal phenomena and those who are skeptical. It seeks to avoid the echo chamber effect often seen in paranormal media by encouraging critical thinking and open discussion.

Editorial Stance and Mission

The magazine's mission is to foster an attitude of outreach and form a middle ground where believers and skeptics can engage in conversation. It promises to feature Q&A sessions with opposing viewpoints, interviews with investigators and thinkers, in-depth analysis, and critical reviews of both belief systems. Lighter fare such as comic strips is also included.

The tagline for The Bent Spoon is: "Where extraordinary claims meet ordinary explanations."

Key Articles and Features

Top Ten Signs That You May Have Been Abducted by Aliens

This article presents a list of ten common symptoms reported by individuals who claim to have experienced alien abductions. These include unexplainable missing time, paralysis in bed, seeing balls of light, memories of flying, seeing beams of light, dreams of UFOs or aliens, waking up startled, seeing a hooded figure, and needing to sleep against a wall. The article, particularly through the perspective of Bobby Nelson, suggests that many of these experiences can be attributed to chronic sleep paralysis, a phenomenon where one wakes up while still in the REM sleep state, leading to hallucinations and a feeling of being paralyzed or observed. Nelson relates his own experiences with sleep paralysis, noting that the symptoms often align with those described in abduction accounts. The article also touches upon how different cultures interpret sleep paralysis, from ghosts and demons to 'night terrors' and 'shadow people,' with 'alien abductions' being a modern interpretation.

A UFOlogist Caught in Lies

This investigative piece by Lance Moody exposes Philip J. Imbrogno, a paranormal/UFO author, as a fraud. Imbrogno claimed to hold a Ph.D. in theoretical chemistry from MIT and had listed degrees in physics, astronomy, and chemistry from the University of Texas and MIT on his website. Moody became suspicious after seeing a photo of Imbrogno wearing an MIT T-shirt, which was referenced in a New York Times article. A search on degreeverify.com and direct contact with MIT confirmed that Imbrogno had no student record or degrees from the institution. Imbrogno provided several conflicting excuses for these claims, including mistaken identity and a need to protect his privacy from UFO stalkers. As a result of these revelations, Imbrogno withdrew from his collaboration on a book with Rosemary Ellen Guiley and has reportedly disappeared.

More Siberian Hoaxing

This section details a hoax involving an alleged extraterrestrial corpse discovered by two teenagers, Timur Hilall and Kirill Vlasov, in Siberia. The hoax included a viral YouTube video depicting a glowing craft and passengers, which the article suggests was poorly executed and likely digitally altered. The corpse itself was later revealed to be made of chicken skin and bread. The article also mentions preceding reports of a "huge pink and blue glowing object" and an "enormous explosion," implying a potential cover-up by local authorities, though this is presented with a skeptical tone.

The Flying Saucer Myth

Written by Jason Korbus, this article examines the origin of the 'flying saucer' term. It traces the modern age of UFOlogy back to Kenneth Arnold's sighting on June 24, 1947, near Mount Rainier, Washington. Arnold described seeing nine circular objects flying at high speeds. He told a reporter they flew "like a saucer would if you skipped it across the water." Despite Arnold never using the word 'saucer' to describe the objects' shape, only their flight pattern, the media latched onto the phrase, leading to widespread reports of 'flying saucers.' The article highlights how this misinterpretation, amplified by the media and the game of telephone, became the dominant image associated with alien spacecraft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout this issue, The Bent Spoon consistently adopts a skeptical yet open-minded approach. The magazine challenges sensational claims by seeking rational explanations, as seen in the analysis of alien abduction experiences through the lens of sleep paralysis and the debunking of Philip Imbrogno's fraudulent credentials. The articles also critically examine how media sensationalism and mistranslations can shape public perception, as demonstrated in the 'Flying Saucer Myth' piece. The overall stance is to encourage critical thinking and evidence-based analysis within the realm of paranormal phenomena, providing a platform for reasoned discussion rather than blind acceptance or dismissal.

This issue of "The Bent Spoon," a free monthly magazine, features an in-depth interview with Stanton Friedman, self-proclaimed "Flying Saucer Physicist," alongside a critical email exchange and an analysis of Project Blue Book Special Report 14. The magazine presents a skeptical perspective on UFOlogy, questioning the claims of proponents and examining the evidence presented.

Interview with Stanton Friedman

The interview, conducted by an unnamed interviewer, explores Friedman's views on UFO evidence, skepticism, and the scientific method. Friedman asserts that his focus is on large-scale scientific studies and that he has spent considerable time reviewing evidence, citing his book "Flying Saucers and Science" and over 700 lectures. He criticizes debunkers for applying biased rules and dismisses groups like SETI as cults due to their perceived lack of scientific rigor and resistance to alternative ideas.

Friedman argues that many UFO sightings are classified as 'unknown' due to insufficient information, not because they are inherently inexplicable. He highlights studies like Project Blue Book Special Report 14 and the Condon Report, suggesting that even these studies, when properly analyzed, point towards the possibility of unidentified objects not of terrestrial origin. He also touches on the media's role in shaping public perception, noting how the Kenneth Arnold sighting evolved from 'crescent shaped objects' to 'flying saucers' through media reporting.

Friedman addresses the idea of extraterrestrial visitation, questioning why aliens would quarantine Earth, suggesting it's due to humanity's history of warfare and nuclear capabilities. He also dismisses the idea of aliens landing on the White House lawn, citing security concerns and the advanced nature of potential alien craft.

Critical Email Exchange with Jason Korbus

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an email exchange between Jason Korbus and Stanton Friedman. Korbus expresses concern over Friedman's perceived arrogance and dismissive attitude during interviews, accusing him of treating people like 'idiots' and deflecting questions by telling them to buy his books. Korbus questions Friedman's credentials, specifically asking if he still works as a Nuclear Physicist and if he holds a PhD, suggesting that his expertise is based on speculation rather than concrete evidence.

Friedman responds defensively, stating he has never claimed to have a PhD and has corrected people who called him 'Dr.' He defends his professional background, listing his work in nuclear power, food irradiation, and other scientific studies. He also defends his colleague Bruce Maccabee, whom Korbus criticized, and reiterates his belief that many UNKNOWNs are clearly manufactured objects behaving in ways beyond current human capabilities.

Korbus, in turn, argues that while he is not against the idea of alien visitation, he is not convinced by the evidence presented by Friedman, such as blurry photographs and anecdotal testimony. He emphasizes that the public seeks evidence and arguments from various sources, not just from one individual's pronouncements.

Analysis of Project Blue Book Special Report 14

The magazine critically examines Project Blue Book Special Report 14, a study often cited by UFO proponents as evidence for alien spacecraft. The article points out that the report, while classifying a significant percentage of sightings as 'unknown,' also acknowledges the subjectivity of the data and the potential for misinterpretation. The Battelle group, which conducted the study, noted that conclusions were based on what observers 'thought and estimated' rather than concrete facts.

The report itself states that it is 'highly improbable that any of the reports of unidentified aerial objects examined in this study represent observations of technological developments outside the range of present day scientific knowledge.' The article highlights that the study found no physical evidence of alien craft and that the 'unknown' cases were based on anecdotal evidence and subjective interpretations. The magazine questions whether UFOlogists are being misled by a few exciting cases or if there is more merit to the UNKNOWN cases than the report suggests, ultimately concluding that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence, which a half-century-old report does not provide.

Further Reading and Editorial Stance

The magazine provides a "FURTHER READING" section with references to books and websites, including Wikipedia and Skeptic.com, suggesting a leaning towards skeptical viewpoints. The overall tone of the magazine is critical of UFOlogy as presented by proponents like Stanton Friedman, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific evidence and questioning the interpretation of data by those in the field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of evidence in UFOlogy, the role of skepticism, the influence of media, and the interpretation of scientific studies. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for a scientific approach that relies on verifiable data and logical analysis, while cautioning against accepting claims based on anecdotal evidence or subjective interpretations. The magazine challenges the assertions of UFO proponents by scrutinizing the very evidence they present, particularly Project Blue Book Special Report 14, and by highlighting the perceived flaws in their methodology and reasoning.

This issue of UFO Magazine features an in-depth interview with Bill Birnes, the publisher of the magazine and a prominent figure in the UFO community, known for his role in the History Channel's 'UFO Hunters.' The cover story, "THEY'RE WATCHING US: THE MYSTERIOUS ORIGIN OF THE MEN IN BLACK," is accompanied by a stylized image of a man in a cap and sunglasses.

Interview with Bill Birnes

Bill Birnes discusses what sparked his interest in the UFO phenomenon, citing a sighting in 1955 and a meeting with Lt. Col. Philip Corso in 1995. He explains how he became the publisher of UFO Magazine after investing in the company that purchased Philip Corso's life story rights. Birnes shares his belief that aliens have been breeding with humans to create hybrid beings, supporting this hypothesis with anecdotal evidence from abductees and the case of the 'Starchild' skeleton.

He defines an unidentified flying object (UFO) as evolving into an alien spacecraft when accompanied by verifiable photographs and physical trace evidence. Birnes addresses the Morristown Hoax of 2009, clarifying that his magazine reported on the police identification of lights as balloons but also noted that witnesses, including a pilot and a health officer, did not believe they were balloons. He asserts that the media was misled by the hoaxers.

Birnes firmly believes there is overwhelming evidence of anomalous activity visiting Earth, citing historical structures, government documents, compelling photographs (Paul Trent, Rex Heflin, Ed Walters, Lynne Kitei), and well-documented UFO sightings over Washington D.C. in 1952, as well as physical trace evidence from various cases.

Regarding the 'Men in Black' (MIB), Birnes explains they are figures from fiction described as men in dark suits who intimidate UFO witnesses. He notes theories that they work for the U.S. government or are extraterrestrials themselves. He believes individuals in government agencies monitor UFO stories to prevent verification.

Birnes argues that the government could keep UFO stories secret by classifying them or by denying their existence and labeling them as something else, thus making people believe the government over their own eyes. He also comments on the issue of UFOlogists being outed as liars, expressing sadness and noting how such actions tarnish the reputation of honest researchers.

He acknowledges the possibility of being wrong about alien visitors but states that strong evidence supports the theory of alien visitation. He finds the idea of time travelers or entities from parallel universes as potential explanations for ancient structures.

The Mysterious Origin of the Men in Black

This section delves into the phenomenon of the Men in Black (MIB). It describes an encounter where individuals in black suits, posing as government officials, threaten a witness to keep quiet about their UFO experience. The article notes that MIB are a common tale in UFO culture, with speculation about their identity ranging from aliens to secret government agencies.

The narrative traces the origin of the MIB concept to Gray Barker, who introduced them in his 1956 book 'They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers.' It is revealed that Barker, a writer on UFO phenomena, often wrote fictional stories as fact for financial gain. John C. Sherwood's article, "Gray Barker: My Friend the Myth Maker," details Barker's participation in a hoax involving 'Men in Black' called 'Blackmen.' Sherwood recounts how he contributed a sci-fi piece about a scientific organization encountering time-travelers, which Barker published.

The article highlights the story of Al K. Bender, who claimed to have uncovered UFO truths and was allegedly visited by three MIB who warned him not to publish his findings and to close his organization. The text suggests that Bender's story is similar to one published by Gray Barker, implying fabrication.

John Keel is credited with coining the term 'MIB' and is known for his book 'The Mothman Prophecies.' Keel believed that strange occurrences in Point Pleasant, WV, including UFO sightings, unidentified creatures, the collapse of the Silver Bridge, and MIB warnings, were all connected.

However, the article questions the embellishment of these tales for book sales. It references Brian Dunning's podcast 'Skeptoid,' which suggests that popular accounts of the Mothman's appearances might be modern fabrications, with limited evidence in newspaper archives. The article also notes that descriptions of MIB as dark-clothed men peering through windows are not conclusive evidence of extraterrestrial beings.

Ultimately, the author, Bobby Nelson, concludes that Sherwood's confession and Barker's letters, which show he lied about UFO claims, are enough to dismiss the MIB case, expressing hope not to receive a mysterious visit.

CRAPCIRCLES by Bobby Nelson

This article explores the phenomenon of crop circles, questioning whether they are a modern invention or have historical roots. Bobby Nelson notes that while many attribute crop circles to aliens with advanced technology, he finds the enigma fascinating but believes the alien explanation is a stretch.

He discusses the historical account of 'The Mowing Devil' from 1678 in Hertfordshire, England, which describes a farmer's oats being perfectly mowed by the devil overnight after a dispute with a mower. Nelson points out that in this tale, the crops were cut, whereas in modern crop circles, they are bent over.

Another historical reference is made to a 1880 publication in the journal 'Nature' by spectroscopist J. Rand Capron, who described curious patterns in wheat fields caused by storms. Capron sought a natural explanation rather than an extraterrestrial one.

Nelson observes that there are few documented crop circle stories before 1970, questioning why, if they were ET-related, there aren't more reports given the prevalence of agriculture throughout history. He notes that the crop circle phenomenon boomed in the 1980s with media and tabloid industry attention.

The Bent Spoon

This section is a call for feedback, article submissions, and suggestions for 'The Bent Spoon' magazine. It introduces a new section called "The Open Forum" intended to foster dialogue between true believers and skeptics, featuring a believer's viewpoint with a skeptical rebuttal. Inquiries and submissions can be sent to [email protected].

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, the mysterious 'Men in Black' phenomenon, and the enigma of crop circles. The editorial stance, as presented through the interviews and articles, leans towards a critical examination of these phenomena, acknowledging the existence of anomalies and compelling evidence while also highlighting instances of hoaxes, fabrications, and the need for rigorous scientific investigation. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between verifiable evidence and speculative theories, particularly in the discussions of MIB and crop circles, where historical accounts are scrutinized for potential embellishment and natural explanations are considered.

This issue of The Bent Spoon magazine focuses on skepticism and critical thinking regarding paranormal claims, particularly UFOs and alien abductions. It features articles that debunk common beliefs, analyze controversial figures, and review related media.

Crop Circle Creators Confess

The issue begins by detailing how Doug Bower and Dave Chorley came forward in 1991 to claim responsibility for creating crop circles. Their endeavor started after Bower saw reports of a UFO incident in Tully, Australia, where a circular imprint was left behind. Inspired, they decided to recreate similar designs to attract media attention. Their first attempts were unsuccessful, but in 1981, they achieved media success on Cheesefoot Head in Hampshire, England, leading to local newspaper speculation about alien landings. This continued for years until government interest in investigating the phenomenon prompted Bower and Chorley to confess. They gave interviews on radio and television, and an exclusive to the Today newspaper, explaining their methods and even holding demonstrations. They expressed pleasure in confusing 'experts,' citing an example where one person suggested small tornados caused the circles due to their clockwise direction, to which Bower and Chorley responded by creating counterclockwise circles. However, their confession did not sway true believers, with some suspecting government involvement to cover up alien contact. The article encourages readers to check out the work of 'Circle Makers' at www.circlemakers.org to see that such designs can be made by humans.

Review: CSETI's “ET Contact Tool” iPhone App

This section reviews the "ET Contact Tool" iPhone app, developed by CSETI (Center for the Study of Extraterrestrial Intelligence), founded by Dr. Steven Greer. The app, priced at $6.99, aims to help users make contact with aliens. It includes training guides, scientific instruments, tones, and guided meditations. The review outlines the steps for making contact: finding a quiet location, playing specific tones (one claimed to be recorded in a crop circle) for 5-10 minutes to establish location, and then meditating with guided sessions by Dr. Greer. The app emphasizes sincerity over meditation expertise, stating that ET visitors respond favorably to sincere efforts. Dr. Greer's technique, Coherent Thought Sequencing (CTS), is also mentioned as a method for making contact by projecting an image of oneself and one's location. The review questions the basis for these claims, noting the lack of convincing proof for alien contact. The app also includes a magnetometer and compass, but the magnetometer is found to be ineffective, unlike a Trifield Meter used for comparison. Ultimately, the review concludes that the app is a fun but ineffectual method for contacting aliens, best suited for entertainment purposes.

Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends: UFO Hunters

This article discusses an episode of Louis Theroux's documentary series focusing on UFO hunters. Theroux, known for his gonzo-style documentaries, infiltrates various subcultures. In this episode, he follows UFO hunters and meets individuals like Thor Templar, who claims to be a 'Lord Commander of the Earth Protectorate' and to have killed aliens. Theroux also explores the animal mutilation hypothesis in Colorado and learns about different alien subspecies. He sky-watches with CSETI and meets Reverend Robert Short, who 'channels' an alien named Korton for a fee. The article praises Theroux's ability to disarm his subjects, allowing them to share their thoughts, and notes that he humanizes them, fostering affection despite their potentially 'crazy' beliefs.

Abductology Implodes

This lengthy article, written by Robert Sheaffer, details the decline of 'Abductology,' the study of alleged UFO abductions. Sheaffer argues that the field has self-destructed, largely due to the actions and claims of its leading figures: Dr. John Mack, Budd Hopkins, and Dr. David Jacobs. The article recounts the history of abduction claims, from the Betty and Barney Hill case in 1961 to the more recent 'bedroom abductions' popularized by Hopkins. It highlights the 'Abduction Study Conference' at MIT in 1992, where skeptics were invited but faced control over reporting. Sheaffer criticizes the methods used by Hopkins and Jacobs, particularly their reliance on hypnosis and unverified claims. The article details accusations made by a woman using the alias "Emma Woods" against David Jacobs, alleging unprofessional conduct, including diagnosing her with Multiple Personality Disorder and planting false memories. It also mentions Carol Rainey, Budd Hopkins' ex-wife, who has spoken out about his gullibility and methods, and criticizes Leslie Kean's book "UFOs: Generals, Pilots, and Government Officials Go On the Record" for ignoring explanations. Sheaffer concludes that Abductology, as practiced by its main proponents, is now seen as an embarrassing chapter in UFO history that should be forgotten.

Pareidolia of the Month

This short feature presents the 'Pareidolia of the Month' award to the Csrefko family in Budapest, Hungary. After remodeling their bathroom, they quickly abandoned using it when Andrea Csrefko saw what she believed to be the head of Satan in one of the tiles. Her husband, Laszlo, stated that the image appeared overnight and could not be removed. The article dismisses this as a pattern in the tile, comparing the image to the character Valentine from the movie Mirrormask rather than Satan.

Editorial Stance and Call to Action

The final pages of the magazine include a message from 'The Bent Spoon' encouraging readers to promote skepticism, rational thought, and critical thinking. They ask readers to share links to their free online magazine with family and friends to combat pseudoscience and irrationality. Contact information for the magazine, including website and social media links, is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is skepticism towards paranormal claims, particularly UFO sightings and alien abductions. The magazine actively debunks sensationalized accounts and criticizes the methodologies of prominent figures in the UFO research community. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational thought, critical analysis, and scientific investigation, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on evidence-based reasoning. The magazine positions itself as a voice against pseudoscience and irrationality.