Caveat Emptor - vol 2 no 4

Magazine Overview

Title: caveat emptor
Issue: No. 8 (Vol. 2, No. 4)
Date: Summer, 1973
Publisher: G & G Enterprises
Price: 60c

Editorial: The Origins of the 'Ancient Astronauts' Theory

The editorial, by Eugene Steinberg, revisits the theory of ancient astronauts, tracing its roots back further than Erich von Daeniken's popular works. It highlights Desmond Leslie, co-author of "Flying Saucers Have Landed" (1953), as an early proponent, quoting a passage suggesting extraterrestrial visitors in ancient times. The editorial also credits Rabbi Yonah ibn Aharon for coining the term 'Extraterrestrialism' in the December-January 1957-58 edition of Saucer News, noting that his extensive manuscript on the subject, containing over 600 pages, has never been published. Other authors mentioned in relation to this theory include Dr. M.K. Jessup, Rev. Virginia Brasington, W. Raymond Drake, Brinsley le poer Trench, and Paul Thomas. The editorial expresses a slight frustration that these earlier scholars are often overlooked, while von Daeniken is acclaimed for popularizing the idea, suggesting that the current climate is more receptive to such theories.

Feature Articles

GETTING THE GOODS ON THE "NORAD RED ALERT"

By Curtis K. Sutherly

This article critically examines a UFO incident reported in the July 1972 issue of SAGA by Hayden C. Hewes. The incident, which occurred on January 12, 1972, involved Sherry and Bill Eckhardt overhearing a telephone conversation suggesting an alleged high-priority military alert involving unknown objects pursued by U.S. Air Force fighter aircraft. Hewes' report claimed two unknowns were shot down, along with two F-104 jets, and that President Richard Nixon's voice was heard. Sutherly questions the plausibility of civilian telephone lines interfering with military communications, citing the use of scrambled lines and advanced transmission methods like AUTODIN. He also points out that F-104s were not standard operational aircraft in the Air Force inventory at the time, and that the reported involvement of NASA pilots in Air Force jets is dubious. Sutherly suggests that the incident might have been a hoax or a misinterpretation, particularly noting that the President's alleged statement could be from a recorded LP. He also dismisses the idea of false information being deliberately fed into the conversation as a means of cover-up, suggesting Hewes is using this to mask flaws in his own narrative.

THE CAVEAT EMPTOR INTERVIEW: Hans Stefan Santesson

Interviewed by Gene Steinberg

In this interview, Hans Stefan Santesson, a prominent figure in UFO and Fortean research, expresses a sense of disillusionment with the UFO field. He feels that some personalities exploit the widespread interest rather than contributing meaningfully. While he liked George Adamski as a man, he believes Adamski may have entered a fantasy world. Santesson suggests that some contactees might have hypnotized themselves into believing their experiences, or unconsciously embellished them over time through repeated storytelling. He recounts an anecdote about a man who claimed astral projection encounters, but whose stories appeared to be plagiarized from existing literature. Santesson is skeptical of many contactee claims, particularly those involving 'blonds from Venus' or 'Saturnian evangelists,' but he does accept the possibility of intelligently-operated machines visiting Earth from outside. He also touches upon the theory of 'Ultraterrestrials' proposed by John Keel, noting Keel's evolving spiritual views. Santesson expresses a lack of belief in spaceships coming from bases within the Earth or the Antarctic, and he is wary of individuals who he suspects are manipulating public opinion. He states that he has rarely, if ever, met a contactee whom he could believe, though he has met individuals who genuinely believed their own experiences. Regarding flying saucer research, he advocates for a return to more solid research procedures, similar to the work of Isabel Davis and Alexander Mebane, and laments the 'penny-ante exploitation' of the subject. He also discusses his involvement with the 'Mu' books, stating he would undertake such projects if they interested him and paid well, and that he did not disagree with the theory of a lost continent in the Pacific, though he called it 'Col. James Churchwood's theories.'

A CHALLENGE TO THE THEORY OF EVOLUTION

By Steve Erdmann

(This article is not included in the provided OCR text, but its title is listed in the table of contents.)

TEROS & DEROS

By Richard S. Shaver

(This article is not included in the provided OCR text, but its title is listed in the table of contents.)

NAKED CAME THE FORTEAN (Satire Part 4)

By Richard E. Wiplash

(This article is not included in the provided OCR text, but its title is listed in the table of contents.)

THE EGO CORNER: WILHELM REICH

By Geneva Steinberg

(This article is not included in the provided OCR text, but its title is listed in the table of contents.)

Other Sections

Editorial: A quote from an unknown author states, "We are kept ignorant not by the things we don't know, but by the things we know that ain't so."

Contents: Lists the articles and columns in the issue, including Editorial, Culture Corner, Letters to the Editors, Newswatch, Flashes, and the Feature Articles.

Advertising: Includes rates for back cover, inside covers, full page, half page, quarter page, and eighth page advertisements, as well as classified ads.

• Other Publications Advertised:
• ESPress, Inc.: Offers subscriptions to "Psychic Observer" magazine.
• SPECTRUM: A quarterly publication for PSI Associate Members, featuring reports on encounters with beings, the Great Pyramid's spiritual message, and more.
• GREENELD: The "foremost U.S. magazine of Paganism," covering occult, philosophy, ethics, Velikovsky, ESP, magic, witchcraft, and more. Published 8 times per year.
• GALAXY PRESS: Offers several UFO-related books, including "FLYING SAUCERS AND THE DARK FORCES," "UFOs: A VENTURE INTO NOWHERE," "THE MAN IN BLACK REPORT," "FLYING SAUCERS AND THE INNER EARTH," "FLYING SAUCERS FROM BEYOND OUR DIMENSION," "MY FRIEND FROM BEYOND EARTH," and "RIDDLE OF THE FLYING SAUCERS."
• Laura Mundo Enterprises: Offers a 60-page booklet titled "FLYING SAUCER UP-DAY!" by Laura Mundo.
• COSMO LINK: Provides information on the occult, psychic, esoteric, New Age, truth, metaphysical, spiritual, yoga, and healing, including services for speakers bureaus, publishing companies, and bookstores.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the paranormal, UFOs, extraterrestrial contact, and alternative theories about history and reality. The editorial stance appears to be critical and analytical, questioning sensational claims and seeking to uncover the historical context and potential exploitation within the UFO research community, as evidenced by the editorial's discussion of the 'ancient astronauts' theory and Sutherly's article debunking a specific UFO incident. The interview with Santesson further reinforces this critical yet open-minded approach, valuing genuine research over sensationalism and exploitation.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated Summer 1973, presents a collection of articles that critically examine established scientific theories and explore fringe topics, including a strong critique of evolutionary theory, an exploration of Wilhelm Reich's Orgone energy and its connection to UFOs, and satirical pieces related to the Fortean community.

Dissent: A Challenge to the Theory of Evolution by Steve Erdmann

This lengthy article systematically challenges the theory of evolution. Erdmann argues that evolution is presented as dogma rather than a theory, with little empirical evidence to support it. He questions the existence of an 'ape man' and points to the improbability of random chemicals forming proteins and simple life forms, citing odds of 10^42. The article highlights that mutations are generally harmful or lethal, not progressive. It quotes Charles Darwin himself stating that no change of species into another is on record. Scientific experiments attempting to create life from basic building blocks, like those by Dr. Stanley Miller, are presented as falling short. The article scrutinizes the fossil record, particularly the horse lineage and the Piltdown and Heidelberg man finds, suggesting they were either misinterpreted, deliberately faked, or based on insufficient evidence. It also discusses the complexity of simple organisms like the amoeba and the unique characteristics of the platypus as evidence against gradual evolutionary development. The author suggests that anatomical resemblances do not prove evolution, drawing parallels to architectural similarities between different structures. The article concludes by questioning the scientific basis for teaching evolution and atheism in educational institutions, citing naturalists like Professor Virchow who dismissed the idea of man descending from apes.

Teros & Deros by Richard S. Shaver

Shaver's article explores the concepts of 'Tero' and 'Dero,' which he links to an ancient understanding of mind as a receiver of exterior impulses. He contrasts this with the modern view of the mind as an isolated ego. 'Tero' represents a mind guided by integrative magnetic fields, leading to ecological betterment, while 'Dero' represents a mind influenced by destructive magnetic fields, often associated with sun-spots and radioactive sources. Shaver suggests that 'Deros' are individuals driven mad by the overuse of machines that have stored 'De' energy from the sun. He draws parallels between these concepts and Wilhelm Reich's theories of 'Orgone' energy, specifically 'OR' (beneficial) and 'DOR' (destructive) energy, both of which are said to be influenced by the sun. Shaver posits that 'Overlays' can affect public opinion, similar to Reich's 'Oranur clouds.' He notes that Deros are often described as being attuned to induced currents that lead to destruction. The article also touches on the idea of invisible forces and the loss of ancient knowledge regarding physics and electronics.

The Silencing of Wilhelm Reich by Geneva Steinberg

This article examines the controversial figure of Wilhelm Reich and his theories, particularly in relation to UFOlogy. Steinberg notes that Reich is often viewed as either a genius or a lunatic, with his actual writings being less known than his reputation. She discusses Reich's concept of 'Orgone' energy, a mass-free, universal life energy that he believed was the power source behind UFOs. The article draws connections between Reich's ideas and those of Richard Shaver, particularly the concepts of 'De' and 'DOR' energy, both linked to solar influence and potentially harmful effects on inhabitants. Steinberg mentions that people working with Orgone energy have reported symptoms similar to those experienced after contact with UFOs, such as skin reddening and conjunctivitis. She also notes the phenomenon of cars stalling near UFOs and then restarting, which she suggests could be related to Orgone energy. The article touches upon Reich's early work in psychology, which Steinberg found particularly impressive, and his later theories on the human psyche and its connection to universal forces. The author raises questions about Reich's death in prison and the burning of his books, speculating whether it was due to human intolerance or a deliberate attempt to suppress knowledge of Orgone energy, which Reich believed could lead to humanity's self-destruction if misused. The article concludes by suggesting that Orgone energy could be tested with a simple device and that Reich's silencing might have been a deliberate act to prevent widespread knowledge of potentially dangerous information.

Satire: Naked Came the Fortean by Richard E. Wiplash

This section contains satirical pieces, including an introduction by Dr. Donald H. Menzwell, who promotes a book about 'The Great Oswald Lurch Hoax,' suggesting it was merely an eclipse and a cumulus cloud. Broad Stagger, a purported UFO writer and book dealer, advertises a new UFO book titled 'The Strange Disappearance of Oswald Lurch,' humorously detailing its contents and offering pseudonyms for aspiring UFO writers. The section also includes an editor's note inviting reader input on future satirical topics, such as those concerning James W. Moseley, Major Donald E. Keyhoe, and Gene & Geneva Steinberg.

The Ego Corner: The Silencing of Wilhelm Reich (continued)

This continuation of Geneva Steinberg's article discusses the potential dangers of Orgone energy and the implications of its discovery. She highlights Reich's belief that humanity would have no second chance once Orgone energy is learned, emphasizing the need for 'functional,' organic thinking to avoid self-destruction. Steinberg questions whether Reich's silencing was due to human stupidity or a deliberate act to postpone the reckoning associated with the use of Orgone energy. She also mentions a simple experiment to test Reich's findings, but refrains from giving instructions due to the potential danger. The article concludes with a call for reader comments.

Other Articles and Segments

• Introduction to the Preface of the Afterwards: A brief, dismissive introduction by Dr. Donald H. Menzwell.
• Introduction to the Foreward: A series of advertisements for advertisements, followed by an introduction by Broad Stagger promoting a UFO book.
• Getting the Goods on the NORAD Red Alert: This segment discusses a phone conversation overheard by Bill Eckhardt, initially thought to be a sensitive communications alert, but later questioned by Eckhardt himself as possibly a hoax. The article notes persistent phone problems for Eckhardt and his wife after the incident.
• The Caveat Emptor Interview (continued): A brief reflection on the increasing concern over ecological and political self-destruction, suggesting that such issues may have occurred before in human history.
• Dissent: A Challenge to the Theory of Evolution (continued): This continuation further elaborates on the arguments against evolution, specifically addressing the Heidelberg skull and the Piltdown fragments, reiterating that they were either faked or misinterpreted.
• Caveat Emptor to Become a Bi-Monthly: An announcement that the magazine will switch to a bi-monthly publication schedule starting in Fall 1973.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism towards established scientific paradigms, particularly evolutionary theory, and a deep interest in alternative explanations for phenomena, such as UFOs and the nature of consciousness, often drawing from esoteric or fringe scientific concepts like Orgone energy. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, challenging conventional wisdom and encouraging readers to question accepted narratives. There is a clear inclination towards exploring unexplained phenomena and presenting viewpoints that diverge from mainstream science. The inclusion of satirical pieces suggests a playful yet critical engagement with the UFO and Fortean communities themselves. The magazine also seems to advocate for a more holistic and perhaps spiritual understanding of the universe, contrasting with materialistic philosophies.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated Summer 1973, features a "Culture Corner" section that includes a review of the NBC-TV documentary "In Search of the Ancient Astronauts," which aired on January 5, 1973. The documentary, based on Erich von Daeniken's book "Chariots of the Gods," explored the theory that ancient civilizations were influenced by extraterrestrial visitors.

In Search of the Ancient Astronauts (NBC-TV Review)

The review highlights the documentary's presentation of evidence for ancient alien visitations, including strange monuments, cryptic drawings, and ancient accounts of possible spaceships. It mentions the case of the "John Frum" cargo cult on Tanna island, where natives developed a religion worshipping "white-faced gods" from the sky, emulating the American airmen they encountered. The reviewer notes that while the evidence presented is not overwhelming, it is thought-provoking. The show featured interviews with scientists like Wernher von Braun and Carl Sagan, who offered cautionary notes about the lack of definitive proof.

Book Reviews

Gods from Outer Space by Erich von Daeniken

This review critically examines von Daeniken's book, which posits that "sons of God" in the Hebrew Scriptures led to a hybrid race. The reviewer acknowledges von Daeniken's extensive personal investigations of ancient sites like the Trident landmark in Peru, the Nazca markings, and Easter Island statues. However, the review criticizes von Daeniken for pushing his evidence too far, accepting literal interpretations of some biblical passages while dismissing others as "inconsistent." The reviewer argues that a harmonious reading of scripture suggests these "sons" were fallen demons, not extraterrestrial visitors.

Tau Zero by Poul Anderson

This is a brief mention of Poul Anderson's science fiction novel, noting it was a nominee for the Hugo Award.

Letters to the Editors

This section features a lively exchange of opinions and personal experiences:

• George Fritts writes to correct John A. Keel, asserting that Walesville, N.Y. does exist and was the site of a UFO incident involving an Air Force jet crash.
• An anonymous reader expresses disapproval of the magazine's content.
• Richard S. Shaver shares his thoughts on the "Jabberwock" and suggests that Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland" may have been a vehicle for transmitting ancient underworld knowledge.
• Orestes Wilson congratulates "Geneva" on the magazine's uniqueness and praises an article by Columba Krebs, while also commenting on Richard E. Wiplash's satire.
• Michael Watson challenges Richard S. Shaver's theories on encephalograph signals and "elder technology," arguing that Shaver's claims are based on flawed understanding and pseudo-science.
• Richard S. Shaver replies to Watson, defending his work and suggesting that Watson is being hindered by "un-seen" observers.
• Peter Sutherland comments on various letters, defending the value of reading about sex when done with proper moral standards, questioning the concept of a "Kingdom of God," and suggesting that UFOs are not here to eliminate the bomb but may be involved in a different kind of interaction.
• Tom Roark defends the existence of Jesus Christ against claims that he was not a human being, citing biblical passages.
• Steve Erdmann responds to Morris Katzen's views on Jesus, stating that Katzen's arguments are based on irrational Higher Criticisms.
• Dulcie Brown writes about the establishment's use of pornography and liquor to control people, comparing human over-sexedness to the mating cycles of birds. She also suggests Jesus may have been an Essene.
• Dewey Schley Carroll critiques the magazine's editorial and book reviews, particularly concerning Morris Katzen's views. He introduces the concept of a "Hexagon Hierarchy" controlling global events and claims that the name "Jesus" is a mistranslation of the Greek word "Aesous."
• Gene and Geneva respond to a letter, defending their magazine's content and offering to send information sheets to interested readers.
• Joan O'Connell shares a report about a strange creature encountered near Lake Benbrook, Texas.
• R. Louis Richardson finds the magazine to be a rehash of controversial topics and suggests Erich von Daeniken's works for a more logical approach to Earth's past.
• Gene and Geneva reply to Richardson, asking for specific examples of "guesswork and wishful thinking" and referring him to their editorial for their views on von Daeniken.

Other Content

• The Eternal Fountain by Robert E. Dickhoff, Ph.D. is mentioned as a book that discusses Atlanteans being responsible for Egyptian and Mayan colonies.
• The Search for the Hidden World by Kenneth J. Alpert is promoted as the first in a new series of books from UFO and occult publisher Rick Hilberg. A pre-publication offer is extended.
• A subscription renewal notice is included, encouraging readers to renew their subscriptions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently engages with themes of UFOs, ancient mysteries, alternative interpretations of history and religion, and the paranormal. There is a clear editorial stance that encourages open-mindedness and critical examination of established narratives, while also providing a platform for diverse and often controversial viewpoints from readers and contributors. The editors often engage directly with reader letters, offering their own perspectives and challenging claims, as seen in the responses to Michael Watson and R. Louis Richardson. The magazine appears to be a forum for those interested in fringe theories and unconventional research, particularly concerning UFOs and ancient civilizations.

This issue of NEWSWATCH, published in Summer 1973 by Caveat Emptor, focuses on UFO sightings and other paranormal phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "UFOS EN MASSE IN PA." and an illustration of a Garuda-like creature.

UFOs En Masse in PA.

The lead story details a significant UFO event that occurred on March 1st in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania. A 14-year-old boy, Allen Pfeiffer, walking home, witnessed a large ball of fire which turned out to be a procession of UFOs. His mother, Mrs. Shirley Pfeiffer, also observed the event, counting up to 42 UFOs, some at a time. She described the objects as having a distinct metallic cast, like aluminum, with red lights and, in some cases, greenish-blue lights in the center that flashed on and off. Trooper Jeffery Huntz of the State Police also witnessed the event and described the brightness of the saucers as a "Christmas tree." Mrs. Pfeiffer reported experiencing an unusual warmth despite the freezing climate and a subsequent numbness that spread through her head, stating, "I couldn't feel my body while I was under the object." Air traffic controllers at the nearest airport had no radar capability to track the objects.

Another report from Hamburg, Pennsylvania, on March 12, 1973, describes Mrs. Sharyn Semmel's sighting of a brightly lit, oval-shaped craft with pulsating red and white lights. She noted its silence and size, comparable to her car. The object was seen moving near a corn field and disappearing over trees. Mrs. Semmel, who was eight months pregnant, reported being hounded by teenagers asking about the sighting. The local press, initially objective, reportedly turned to ridicule.

More Monsters on the Loose

This section reports on a mysterious creature sighted in the greater Pottstown area of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Described as a "cat-like beast" with "piercing red eyes," it was first reported breaking apart chicken coops in Upper Pottsgrove Township on March 14th. The creature's victims have included chickens and rabbits, with a focus on killing rather than eating. The Pottstown Mercury newspaper is cited as a primary source for these reports, which have led some locals to search for the animal at night.

Sanderson Succumbs to Cancer

This brief article announces the death of Ivan T. Sanderson, a noted Fortean author and naturalist, on February 19, 1973, at the age of 62, due to cancer. Sanderson was the founder of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU), an organization dedicated to high standards of investigation and reporting. The article notes that SITU is expected to continue his legacy despite his passing.

Landis Wins Contest

Frank W. Landis of Allentown, Pennsylvania, is announced as the first winner of the newspaper clipping contest. He will receive a six-issue subscription extension. The contest encourages readers to submit clippings used as the basis for stories in Caveat Emptor, with the most submissions earning a free subscription.

Flashes

This section previews upcoming content. The next issue will feature a column by Paul Braczyk titled "Fort-ifications," a continuation of his "Enigmatological Survey." Other planned articles include a piece on the current status of UFOlogy by John Keel, a discussion on the possibility of a tenth planet by William Moser, and a diary of a planned visit to the National UFO Conference in Atlanta. There is also a mention of potentially making Brad Steiger the subject of an "Interview" if he is not upset by a satire in the current issue.

Book Reviews and Advertisements

The magazine includes several pages dedicated to promoting and reviewing books related to UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and Fortean topics. These include:

• The Coming of the Saucers by Kenneth Arnold and Ray Palmer: Described as the original flying saucer book, detailing the Maury Island incident.
• The Wright Field Story by James W. Moseley: A controversial book about a captured interplanetary flying saucer.
• Vermin from Space, Mysterious Shaver, The Finding of Adam, Giant Evening Wings, and Blue Mansions by Richard S. Shaver: A series of books exploring ancient Earth history and the nature of space visitors.
• The Advent of the Cosmic Viewpoint by Bryant Reeve: Discusses the impact of contact with extraterrestrial life.
• Gods or Spacemen? by W.R. Drake: Explores the theory that ancient religions were based on visits from extraterrestrials.
• Investigating the Unexplained by Ivan T. Sanderson: A collection of Fortean mysteries.

Advertisements also promote other publications such as COSMOS-EXPRESS, SPACEVIEW Magazine, and BEYOND REALITY, along with services like psychic consultations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, particularly in Pennsylvania, and other unexplained phenomena like mysterious creatures. There is a strong emphasis on Fortean topics and the investigation of the unexplained, as evidenced by the coverage of Ivan T. Sanderson and the book reviews. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting reports and reviews without necessarily endorsing all the viewpoints expressed in the reviewed materials, as stated in the "Important Note" regarding book descriptions. The publication encourages reader participation through contests and submissions.