Caveat Emptor - vol 3 no 6

Magazine Overview

Title: caveat emptor
Issue: No. 14, Volume 3
Date: July-August, 1974
Publisher: Nexus Enterprises
Country: USA
Price: 60¢
Cover Headline: Inside An ESP Laboratory

This issue of Caveat Emptor, a magazine focused on UFOs, the Occult & The Aquarian Age, delves into various aspects of psychic phenomena and unexplained events. The cover features an illustration related to an ESP laboratory.

Editorial

"Alternate Reality" Theory and UFOs

Eugene Steinberg's editorial reflects on his growing feeling of having "been there before" in relation to UFOs and personal matters. He discusses a theory about an "alternate reality" (AR) as a potential explanation for the origin of flying saucers, a theory he and Allen Greenfield first formulated about ten years prior. Steinberg notes that this theory, while not entirely new, is gaining traction, with researchers like Peter Kor (Tom Comella) and even conservative UFO advocate Dr. J. Allen Hynek exploring similar paraphysical solutions. He also references an article by British UFO writer Brinsley Le Poer Trench, "All Done With Mirrors," which explored the problem from another angle. Steinberg poses fundamental questions about the nature of these phenomena, including whether they are deliberate projections, accidental intrusions, or perhaps generated by subterranean entities known as 'deros,' as suggested by Richard Shaver.

Interview: Inside An ESP Laboratory

Charles Honorton on ESP and Psychokinesis

The main feature is an interview with Charles Honorton, Director of Research for the Division of Parapsychology and Psychophysics at the Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. Honorton explains that his work involves basic research into psychic phenomena, extrasensory perception (ESP), and psychokinesis. He describes their approach as devising controlled experimental ways to study ESP under conditions more similar to real-life occurrences than previous laboratory experiments.

Honorton contrasts modern research with earlier studies that relied on card guessing (ESP cards or Zener cards). While acknowledging that card-guessing experiments have accumulated evidence for ESP, he notes that spontaneous ESP experiences often occur in altered states of consciousness, particularly dreams. He states that about 25% of the night is spent dreaming, and approximately 65% of reported spontaneous ESP experiences occur in dreams, with dream-reported cases being more complete.

To study ESP in dreams, Honorton's lab uses the REM monitoring technique to identify dreaming states. During REM sleep, an agent in another room concentrates on a randomly selected picture, and the dreaming subject is awakened to report their dream. Transcripts are then sent to judges who try to match dream reports to target pictures. Honorton cites a dramatic instance where a subject's dream about "The Adoration of the Shepherds" by El Greco closely matched the target picture, including details like pillars overgrown with grass.

He also discusses experiments with sensory deprivation, drawing parallels to Eastern descriptions of techniques like Patanjali's Yoga Aphorisms, which involve concentration, meditation, and absorption (samyama). Honorton believes these procedures can produce states analogous to ancient Yoga texts and lead to internal images when external sensory input is controlled. He notes that ESP information often manifests as mental images, sometimes associated with memory images, rather than literal representations.

Regarding psychokinesis (PK), Honorton states they have conducted only two experiments. He describes PK as the motor analogy to ESP, influencing the external world without physical means. He mentions experiments using a machine producing random red and green lights, where subjects attempted to influence the outcome. Early results suggested success when subjects were tensing up, but not when relaxing. However, subsequent attempts with unselected subjects were not successful, though Honorton himself achieved some results as a subject.

Honorton also recounts less controlled observations, including a film of Russian PK medium Nina Kulagina. He describes a subject who, after watching the film, was able to move a small alcohol bottle across a table through concentration.

When asked about influencing small windmill-like devices, Honorton notes that these are sensitive to normal influences like body heat, making them less suitable for controlled PK experiments. He expresses a preference for laboratory instrumentation to ensure no normal influences are at play and mentions waiting for Uri Geller to appear for PK experiments.

Honorton is critical of a recent article in Time magazine about parapsychology, stating that it paid only "lip service" to serious work and focused on the "glamorous and exciting aspects of the lunatic fringe." He believes the media often concentrates on sensationalism rather than the scientific rigor of the field.

Other Articles and Features

• NASA: The Star Trek Syndrome (conclusion) by Curtis K. Sutherly
• THE 1973 UFO WAVE-IN PERSPECTIVE by Allen H. Greenfield
• NOBODY WANTS US by Richard S. Shaver
• VIEW FROM EDEN by Dr. F.A. Mesmer (Jerome Eden)
• FORT-IFICATIONS (no. 6) by Paul J. Braczyk
• THE EGO CORNER: The Case Against Childhood by Geneva Steinberg

Advertisements and Listings

The issue includes advertising rates for the magazine, as well as listings for other publications and books related to the occult and UFOs, such as:

• Green Egg magazine from The Church of All Worlds.
• SPECTRUM - Journal of the Occult.
• A CLOCKWORK BREMER.
• DISSENTER-DISINTER.
• U.F.O. BOOKS including titles like "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," "Quest," "My Friend from Beyond Earth," and "Riddle of the Flying Saucers."
• HEALING services offered by Robert Curtis.
• UFO SIGHTINGS NEWSLETTER and the book "ORDIEA – Planet of Fear" by Janice M. Croy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the exploration of psychic phenomena, particularly ESP and psychokinesis, through scientific and experimental approaches. There is a clear interest in moving beyond traditional explanations for UFOs, with the "alternate reality" theory being a prominent topic. The magazine appears to advocate for a more serious and less sensationalized approach to these subjects, as evidenced by Honorton's critique of media coverage. The inclusion of various occult and esoteric topics aligns with the magazine's stated focus on "UFOS, THE OCCULT & THE AQUARIAN AGE."

Caveat Emptor, July-August 1974, Volume 11, Part 11, presents a diverse range of articles focusing on space exploration, UFO phenomena, and fringe science. The issue delves into the ambitious, yet ultimately scaled-back, space exploration goals of NASA, particularly concerning Mars and Venus missions, framed by the concept of 'The Star Trek Syndrome.' It also features an in-depth interview with UFO investigator Allen Greenfield on the 1973 UFO wave, an exploration of Dr. F. A. Mesmer's theories on 'Animal Magnetism' and life energy, and an article by Richard S. Shaver discussing societal neglect and the need for self-sufficiency.

The Star Trek Syndrome

This section, authored by Curtis K. Sutherly, details NASA's grand ambitions for interplanetary travel, specifically a proposed mission to Mars and Venus utilizing two nuclear-powered spacecraft. The plan involved reusable deep space probes, with one craft serving as a backup. The astronauts' perspective is highlighted, emphasizing the tension and awe associated with space departure. The article notes that politicians' actions led to funding cuts, effectively ending the proposed Mars program and making manned landings seem distant. It also touches upon alternative plans like the Pioneer probes and the space shuttle.

The 1973 UFO Wave in Perspective

An interview with long-time UFO investigator Allen Greenfield provides an analysis of the 1973 UFO wave. Greenfield discusses the typical South-to-North progression observed in some UFO flaps, noting that the 1973 wave seemed to start in Florida and move north. He also observes that witnesses were predominantly from lower socio-economic groups, though he believes people from all walks of life witness UFOs. Greenfield suggests that UFOs in this wave were bolder than in previous American flaps, reminiscent of the 1954 French wave. He expresses skepticism about UFOs moving at fantastic speeds, suggesting it could be a decoy system, and is anti-theoretical, preferring to wait for more evidence before making judgments.

The Viking Probes

This section details NASA's plans for the Viking unmanned space probes, scheduled for launch in 1975. These probes were designed to soft-land on Mars to search for life and study the planet's evolution. The article outlines the mission's timeline, including achieving Mars orbit in 1976 and the selection of landing sites. It mentions that Viking probes would utilize technology from the manned moon flights, separating into a surface lander and an orbiter. The article also touches upon Joseph Goodavage's speculation about NASA encountering extraterrestrial life or artifacts on the moon, based on puzzling communication transcripts.

Star-Date...?

This piece contemplates humanity's future reach into the cosmos, questioning the potential encounters with other life forms and the possibility of life based on non-carbon elements. It highlights how technology is advancing rapidly, potentially outpacing human maturity. The concept of colony ships, self-sustaining cities in space, is discussed as a long-term possibility for interstellar travel.

Paul Braczyk's Fort !!?

This concluding segment of a fictionalized narrative features Sherlock Holmes explaining his deduction of a UFO case. The mystery involves a silent, disc-shaped machine, an oriental-looking occupant, and the theft of a rare orchid, the 'Inclementis Weatheratus,' from the Regency Park Botanical Exhibit. Holmes connects the clues—a Chinese inventor named Yin Fu, soy bean oil additive for silent engines, and the orchid's origin in the Amazon Basin—to the villain Professor Moriarty, who used Yin Fu to create a diversion.

View from Eden: Dr. F. A. Mesmer

Authored by Jerome Eden, this section introduces Franz Anton Mesmer, a physician known for his work on 'Animal Magnetism' in the 18th century. Eden draws parallels between Mesmer and Wilhelm Reich, noting that both were considered controversial figures. Mesmer's concept of 'Universal Fluid' (life energy) and its blockage causing illness is explained. Eden recounts his personal journey of translating Mesmer's memoir and his belief in Reich's discovery of 'orgone energy.' He mentions Mesmer's invention of 'tub' devices similar to Reich's orgone accumulators and the challenges Eden faced in getting Mesmer's work published.

Orgone Energy: The Answer to Atomic Suicide

Jerome Eden further explores Dr. Wilhelm Reich's theories on 'orgone energy,' a life force that can become contaminated by nuclear energy production, leading to 'Oranur' and 'DOR' (Deadly Orgone Energy), which cause illness. Eden discusses the controversy surrounding Reich, his death in prison, and the banning of his works. He highlights Reich's interest in UFOs and his conclusion that UFOs use orgone energy for propulsion. Eden also details Reich's experiments with a 'Cloudbuster' device designed to control DOR and affect weather.

Sasquatch

This section reviews two books on Sasquatch: 'Sasquatch' by Don Hunter and Rene Dahinden, and 'The Sasquatch File' by John Green. Both books are recommended for their detailed accounts of sightings and research into the elusive humanoid. The review notes the comprehensive nature of the books, including historical background, sighting reports, and photographic evidence.

Book Reviews

A collection of book reviews covers various topics, including UFO contact ('Beyond Earth'), ancient civilizations ('Gods and Spacemen in the Ancient East' and 'Gods and Spacemen in the Ancient West,' 'The Home of the Gods,' 'Timeless Earth,' 'Extraterrestrial Visitations'), and historical engineering feats ('The Ancient Engineers'). The review of 'Forgotten Worlds' by Robert Charroux highlights his theory of extraterrestrial influence on ancient cultures and the ongoing debate with Erich von Daeniken.

Nobody Wants Us

Richard S. Shaver's article expresses a sentiment of societal neglect towards the individual. Shaver argues that mass production and corporate control have marginalized individual skills and artistry, leading to a lack of purpose and a reliance on large corporations. He criticizes the concept of an 'energy shortage,' suggesting that natural energy sources like solar and wind are readily available but suppressed by the 'grab-all philosophy' of power companies. Shaver advocates for energetic self-sufficiency, urging individuals to create living units that can sustain themselves.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Caveat Emptor include the exploration of space and the potential for extraterrestrial contact, the investigation of UFO phenomena and their possible explanations (including scientific and speculative theories), and a general interest in Fortean topics and alternative science. The editorial stance appears to be open to unconventional ideas and critical of established institutions, particularly regarding space funding and corporate influence. There is a clear interest in presenting diverse viewpoints, from scientific speculation to fictionalized accounts and personal essays on societal issues.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated July-August 1974, features a prominent article titled "The Case Against Childhood" by Geneva Steinberg, which critiques the societal institution of childhood as detrimental to a child's development. The magazine also includes a variety of articles and reviews touching upon UFO phenomena, parapsychology, alternative lifestyles, and historical mysteries.

The Case Against Childhood

Geneva Steinberg's lead article argues that the concept of "childhood" itself is an institution that encourages children to be "incompetent" and discourages them from expressing themselves seriously. She contends that adults often find children's attempts at seriousness amusing, leading to a dismissal of their emotional responses and a subtle encouragement of self-repression rather than self-expression. Steinberg cites Schulamith Firestone from "The Dialectic of Sex," who describes childhood as "hell" due to restraints, physical inadequacy, shame, and dependence. The article suggests that instead of being segregated, children were once seen as "little people" who participated in daily life and learned directly from adults, acquiring skills more readily. The author questions why modern society produces children who require babysitters at age 10, contrasting this with historical or primitive cultures where children took on more responsibility.

Interviews and Discussions

An interview with Charles Honorton discusses the progress in parapsychology, focusing on refining methods to control ESP phenomena. Honorton sees a similarity between the idea of an unmanifest quality beneath sensory experience and the unconscious level of mental processes, suggesting ESP may operate unconsciously. He believes that understanding ESP could be the most important breakthrough in science.

UFOs and Ancient Mysteries

Several articles and reviews delve into UFO phenomena and related topics. The "1973 UFO Wave-in Perspective" by Allen H. Greenfield notes that the 1973 UFO flap did not alter global UFO patterns but did impact American observations. Ralph Blum's book, "Beyond Earth: Man's Contact with UFOs," is reviewed by Eugene Steinberg, who finds it captures the style of 1950s semi-documentary UFO books but offers no new insights into the 1970s UFO enigma. Charles Berlitz's "Mysteries from Forgotten Worlds" is also reviewed, exploring the possibility of ancient civilizations possessing advanced technology and the concept of multiple technological ages on Earth, potentially explaining ancient artifacts without resorting to extraterrestrial intervention.

Richard S. Shaver's work is featured in several book descriptions, including "Vermin from Space," "Mysterious Shaver," "The Finding of Adam," and "Giant Evening Wings," which explore the "Elder World" and the history of ancient man. The magazine also presents "The Burrowers Beneath" by Brian Lumley, described as a fantasy horror novel inspired by H.P. Lovecraft, featuring monstrous "Earth's original rulers."

Alternative Lifestyles and Philosophy

An article titled "Nobody Wants Us" advocates for self-sufficiency, suggesting that individuals can build totally self-sufficient houses and live independently of economic bureaucracies. The author emphasizes the need to force the status quo to include self-sufficient units and highlights the potential of converting automobiles to electric power and utilizing windmills for energy.

The "View from Eden" section, featuring contributions from Jerome Eden, discusses Wilhelm Reich, Animal Magnetism, and the "Universal Fluid." It suggests that Mesmer's work holds the key to understanding "extra-sensory perception" and that the energy Reich studied could be directed by thought. The section warns against the "emotional plague" that seeks to control humanity.

Letters to the Editors

The "Letters to the Editors" section includes correspondence from Robert E. Dickhoff, who expresses dissatisfaction with his removal from the masthead, and Phillip Jameson, who criticizes the magazine for publishing an article by Reverend Erdmann on "Paleochristianity," deeming it propaganda for oppressive forces. The editors respond by stating their commitment to publishing both sides of viewpoints in the spirit of the Aquarian Age. Tom Roark writes in appreciation of Steve Erdmann's article.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Caveat Emptor consistently explores themes of the unknown, the paranormal, alternative histories, and critiques of mainstream societal structures. The magazine appears to champion independent thought, critical inquiry into established beliefs, and the pursuit of unconventional knowledge, particularly in areas like UFOs, parapsychology, and esoteric philosophies. The editorial stance seems to be one of challenging conventional wisdom and providing a platform for diverse, often controversial, viewpoints, as evidenced by the inclusion of letters that debate the magazine's content and editorial decisions.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated July-August 1974, delves into a variety of paranormal, esoteric, and UFO-related topics. The magazine presents itself as a platform for exploring phenomena beyond conventional understanding, featuring reader contributions, news reports, and advertisements for related publications and services.

Letters to the Editor and Reader Contributions

The issue opens with a letter from Louis Richardson of Silverbell, Arizona, who humorously advises the editor on how to handle unsolicited material. He suggests not forcing the magazine on him and leaving room for his personal mail. Following this, Senior Editor Lawrence P. Ashmead responds to a reader's query about Major Donald Keyhoe's book 'Aliens From Space,' confirming its availability and upcoming paperback release.

A letter from Morris Katzen of Cooks Falls, New York, questions the literal interpretation of the Bible, specifically asking if a sister is considered a spouse. The editor, ERS, responds frankly, stating that while he doesn't begrudge Katzen's beliefs, he requires more proof for his claims about Jesus Christ and alchemy. ERS also defends the magazine's extensive coverage of Shaver, acknowledging his unique contribution to the field and the lack of other regular publishers for his work.

Robert Schiller from Denmark, Wisconsin, praises an article titled 'The Way Things Are' from a previous issue, agreeing with its assessment of societal control through 'Sheep Mindedness.' He thanks the magazine for its efforts in trying to awaken people from this state.

UFO Sightings and Reports

The 'Newswatch' section, edited by Frederick G. Phillips, includes several UFO-related reports:

• Village Becomes UFO Stop: The Canadian village of Boshkung Lake has become a tourist attraction due to numerous UFO sightings since mid-November. Residents have reported objects described as 'kite-shaped or cigar-like' with various colored lights. One family reported a UFO defrosting a window in sub-zero temperatures. Witnesses also reported seeing a UFO about 18 feet long, dark in color, and tapered, crossing a highway at tree top. The Lunhams have observed multiple UFOs, some landing on the ice, and noted they seem to communicate via flashing lights.
• Toys From Space: Dr. J. Allen Hynek is investigating a mysterious metallic sphere found in Jacksonville, Florida, which rolls around a table by itself. The sphere, weighing about 22 pounds, rolls to the edge of a table and follows it in decreasing rectangles. It also reportedly causes a sensation of motion and can be felt internally.
• UFOs Suspend Gravity: A report from the National Insider, citing researcher George D. Fawcett, suggests UFOs can suspend Earth's gravitational field. Examples include fishermen being lifted into a saucer, roofs being raised, people being lifted from vehicles and horses, and a reserve Army helicopter pilot being lifted to 3,500 feet.
• Saucers Over Japan: Hundreds of Japanese reported a 'football-shaped object' hovering over the Imperial Palace in March, which emitted a strange light and then shot off.

Additional reports include:

• A Cessna TU-206 pilot flying from Nagasaki to Kokura reported a delta-shaped object passing by, described as metallic and light orange or green.
• Hundreds in Seoul, Korea, saw a 'silvery object' stationary over the city, which emitted brilliant lights before departing.
• In Monbetsu City, Japan, numerous people reported twin UFOs performing acrobatics.

Events and Speculation

• Blum Wows 'Em at APRO Symposium: Ralph Blum, author of 'Beyond Earth: Man's Contact with UFOs,' was a featured speaker at the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO) symposium. He shared an update on Charles Hickson, one of the Pascagoula UFO abduction claimants, who reported further strange encounters. Blum also noted parallels between Betty Hill's experience and the Pascagoula case. Other speakers included Dr. Berthold Schwartz on psychic aspects of UFOs and Dr. Frank Salisbury. The event was noted for its lack of organization.
• Goldwater Joins NICAP Board: Senator Barry Goldwater has joined the Board of Governors of the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP). Goldwater has a long-standing interest in UFOs since the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947 and is a Major General in the Air Force reserve.

Book and Magazine Advertisements

The issue contains numerous advertisements for related publications and services:

• Beyond Reality Magazine: Promoted as covering ESP, the Occult, parapsychology, witchcraft, and UFOs.
• UFO Reports and Commentary: A newsletter from Rick Hilberg offering a complete sighting roundup.
• The Wright Field Story: A book by James W. Moseley about an alleged captured interplanetary flying saucer.
• Predictor and Investment Guide: Monthly predictions and investment advice from Walter J. Hagen.
• Classified Advertising: Listings for used UFO and Occult books, 'Secrets of the Spirit World,' 'Occult-Psychic Science Directory,' 'Insight Magazine,' 'Elysian,' 'Aleph,' and 'Revelation' magazine.
• Tarot Cards and Books: Advertisements for various tarot decks, books, and games from U.S. Games Systems, including a special offer for the James Bond 007 Tarot Game.
• Magazines for Everybody: A selection of niche magazines including Gnostica News, Psychic Review, Hit Parader, Fate, Official Karate, Rock and Soul Songs, Song Hits, Spaceview, Caveat Emptor, and Earth Religion News.
• "Innerscope" Personalized Analysis: An advertisement for a 40-45 page analysis based on numerology and the Law of Reincarnation, offered by Nexus Enterprises.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the interpretation of religious texts (specifically the Bible) in light of paranormal or esoteric knowledge, and the exploration of psychic phenomena and the occult. The editorial stance, as indicated by the 'ERS' responses, is one that encourages critical thinking, demands evidence for extraordinary claims, and defends the magazine's commitment to publishing controversial or less mainstream material, particularly that of writers like Shaver who may not find regular outlets elsewhere. The magazine also appears to be a hub for researchers and enthusiasts in these fields, as evidenced by the various subscription offers and calls for participation.