The Circular - 1991 Vol 2 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 2, Number 1
Date: March 1991
Publisher: Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS)
Type: Quarterly Journal

This issue marks the beginning of the second year for the Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS) and introduces a new phase for its publication, 'The Circular'. Previously a private venture by Bob Kingsley, it is now the official quarterly journal for CCCS members, distributed free as part of their subscription. The journal aims to facilitate communication and share research findings more rapidly with the growing membership.

Foreword

By Ralph Noyes (on behalf of The Centre For Crop Circle Studies)

Ralph Noyes expresses gratitude for the association with John Michell's 'The Cerealogist', which previously served as a vital communication channel. He highlights the CCCS's need for swifter and more regular contact with its members and announces the establishment of 'machinery' for rapid information collection and analysis. He urges members to use the provided contact details for contributing to research and notes that the CCCS aims to publish facts and results quickly. Noyes welcomes Bob Kingsley's decision to turn 'The Circular' into a regular quarterly journal, ensuring it will be the CCCS's official publication. He clarifies that 'The Circular' will not compete with 'The Cerealogist' but will cover different ground. The CCCS would have preferred to continue subsidizing 'The Cerealogist' for members, but this is not feasible within the £10 UK subscription rate. A special price of £5 per year for 'The Cerealogist' is available to CCCS members.

Introduction

By Bob Kingsley

Bob Kingsley welcomes readers to the new-look 'Circular' and the upcoming season. He outlines the CCCS's second year, focusing on setting up research projects, planning field operations, and improving communication with members through the journal. He muses on whether crop circles might be a form of communication from another consciousness or simply a manifestation of Nature's complexity. Kingsley also touches upon the vastness of the universe and the ongoing quest to understand its secrets, questioning whether scientists will ever be able to answer all our questions.

Themes and Articles

Science, Consciousness, and Hoaxes

'Science' by Bob Kingsley: Kingsley discusses the nature of scientific investigation, emphasizing the need to consider all aspects of circle investigation and respect individual views. He argues that science, in its broadest definition, is the investigation of systematic knowledge, and that nothing is truly discovered but rather recognized. He questions the modern preference for hard facts, suggesting that it may deny exploration of the non-material and unobservable. He advocates for the study of consciousness as a valid research area, provided it is conducted correctly, and suggests starting with understanding our own consciousness.

'Silent' by Bob Kingsley: This short piece emphasizes the importance of scientists speaking only when ready and respecting their process of evolving theories.

'Hoax' by Bob Kingsley: Kingsley addresses the issue of hoaxes in crop circle phenomena. While acknowledging that hoaxes exist and must be considered, he asserts that committed researchers are aware of the pitfalls and can confidently state that the overwhelming majority of circle events are not hoaxes. He suggests that if not hoaxes, then some form of energy must be involved.

'Energy' by Bob Kingsley: This section explores the concept of interconnectedness in the universe through different forms of energy. It touches upon quantum physics, invisible particles, and their potential role in the universe and consciousness. Kingsley notes that while science can point out the illogicality of these particles' existence, their function remains a mystery.

'Schism' by Bob Kingsley: This piece discusses a historical schism in science that led to the eclipse of the metaphysical branch of theory by the focus on observed material facts. It contrasts the modern scientific view, which struggles to find evidence of a 'Great Architect', with older ideas that assumed a 'Grand Design'. The article suggests that the battle between science and metaphysics continues.

Communication and the Journal's Role

'Communication' by Bob Kingsley: Kingsley emphasizes that understanding external consciousness requires a grasp of our own. He quotes Ouspensky on the importance of learning and knowing to truly listen. He states that communication is central to understanding science, interpreting circles, and the purpose of 'The Circular' itself. He wonders if the bridges between science and metaphysics can be repaired.

'Surprise' by Bob Kingsley: Kingsley recounts his pleasant surprise at the CCCS's approach for the journal project. He acknowledges the profound impact crop circles have had on many people worldwide. He details the birth of 'The Circular' in August 1990 out of a need to communicate and foster discussion, noting its growth from an initial idea to 140 recipients by January 1991. He expresses his honor in working with experienced researchers and his commitment to a neutral editorial policy, aiming to uncover the mechanisms and meaning behind the crop circle phenomenon.

Centre for Crop Circle Studies Information

Membership: Details are provided for CCCS membership for the period April 1991 to March 1992, including subscription rates for UK, Europe, and overseas, and an option to receive 'The Cerealogist'. Contact information for membership correspondence is given.

Donations: A list of individuals and groups who have kindly donated to the CCCS is published.

The Code of Conduct

'A Timely Reminder' and 'A REMINDER OF THE MAIN POINTS' by Bob Kingsley: This section strongly emphasizes the importance of adhering to the 'Code of Conduct' developed in collaboration with the National Farmers' Union. It warns against trespassing on private land without permission, causing damage to crops, and harassing farmers. The code reminds investigators to ask for permission, leave contact details, use gates, close them afterward, avoid driving into fields, and refrain from smoking. It highlights that the actions of researchers largely dictate the goodwill of farmers and landowners, which is crucial for responsible circle research. The CCCS is also setting up local groups to assist with farmer liaison and surveys.

Articles and Contributions

'Crop Circles - A Personal View' by Ray Cox: Cox discusses the debate between the 'vortex idea' and a 'hoax factor' in crop circle formation. He questions the overestimation of the hoax factor, given the difficulty of creating neat patterns in darkness. He notes the evolutionary nature of crop circles, referencing Warminster events in the late 60s and early 70s where similar phenomena occurred without circles. Cox argues that while science should be applied, the possibility of other, less measurable forces should not be discredited. He references ancient documents and individual experiences suggesting a spiritual dimension to the universe and discusses Rudolph Steiner's theories on the evolution of matter and ethereal forces.

'Close Encounters With Circular Readers': This column features positive comments from various individuals, including John Michell (editor of The Cerealogist), Anthea Holland, Paul Fuller (editor of The Crop Watcher), and Colin Andrews. It invites readers to submit their news, comments, and articles, specifying guidelines for submissions (type-written, A4 paper, single-spaced for articles, with clear diagram placement and high-contrast photographs).

'CCCS MEETINGS, LECTURES & CONFERENCE': This section provides information on upcoming CCCS events, including a lecture by Betty Shine on April 25th, 1991, and the CCCS's first Conference on June 1st, 1991, in Ely, Cambridgeshire. Details on ticket prices, buffet lunch options, and contact information for non-members are included.

Field Work and Pictogram Analysis

'EAST/WEST KENNET LONG BARROWS PICTOGRAM' (Page 9): This page presents a detailed diagram of a crop circle pictogram located at East/West Kennet Long Barrows. It includes measurements, bearings, crop type (wheat), formation date (July 26/27, 1990), and survey date (August 7, 1990). The scale is 1 inch to 15 metres.

'FIELD WORK - THE PICTOGRAM AT EAST/WEST KENNET LONG BARROWS' by Stanley Morcom (Page 10): Morcom describes the East/West Kennet Long Barrows pictogram, noting similarities with other formations like Alton Barnes and Milk Hill, particularly the presence of a small ringed circle and an offset circle. He speculates that the circle-maker might use such devices for non-symmetrical formations. He observes that the Kennet formation cuts across tram-lines, unlike others, and features a closely-grouped cluster of 'grape-shot' circles, possibly used for centralizing the pattern. Morcom recounts an experience where a male companion felt mentally barred from entering one of the circles, while the women and himself did not experience this. He also mentions a similar account from Candida Lycett-Green regarding the Alton Barnes pictogram. The article details the lay of the crop in the spur and the influence of tram-lines on the formation's structure.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation and understanding of crop circles, the importance of scientific rigor balanced with an open mind to non-material explanations, and the necessity of responsible communication and conduct with landowners. The editorial stance, as articulated by Bob Kingsley, is one of neutrality and a commitment to exploring all aspects of the phenomenon without prejudice, aiming to get to the bottom of the crop circle mystery and determine any deeper meaning. There is a clear emphasis on the CCCS's growing role in coordinating research and disseminating information to its members.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 2, Number 1
Date: January 1991

This issue of The Circular delves into the theoretical underpinnings of crop circle phenomena, primarily focusing on the concept of 'Organic Energy' as proposed by Simon Burton, building upon the work of Wilhelm Reich. It explores how this energy might explain not only crop formations but also a range of other anomalous phenomena.

ORGANIC ENERGY: A Theoretical Energy Model for Cereology

Simon Burton introduces his contention that cereology lacks a comprehensive theoretical model for the energy form involved in crop circle creation. He proposes a model based on Wilhelm Reich's theories of 'Orgone Radiation,' which he rebrands as 'Organic Energy' for contemporary relevance. This energy is described as a natural, highly coherent force operating at high frequencies, capable of animating matter and manifesting intelligence at the level of the collective unconscious.

Burton outlines 24 properties of this 'organic energy,' derived from Reich's research up to 1957. Key properties include:

• It animates matter and is derived from sunlight.
• It is omnipresent in the Earth's atmosphere, with varying concentrations.
• It is absorbed by organic material and expelled by inorganic matter.
• It can be observed in darkness or sunlight under specific conditions.
• It is detectable by dowsing and can cause a prickling sensation on the skin.
• It has a natural tendency to flow from low to high potential, unlike electricity.
• It is attracted to and transmitted along linear features.
• It has an affinity for water and underground water.
• Concentrated forms can cause tanning and have healing effects.
• Blockages can lead to malignant forms, potentially linked to illnesses like cancer.
• It reacts violently with nuclear energy, becoming malignant.
• It is linked to UFO manifestations.

Burton argues that this energy is responsible for the circle-making force and suggests that its properties can help unify disparate theories within cereology. He emphasizes that his model aims to incorporate existing ideas rather than disqualify them.

The UFO Connection and Other Phenomena

The issue explores how 'organic energy' might relate to various phenomena:

• Prehistoric Earthworks: Many circles are found near earthworks that may have functioned as 'accumulators' or 'capacitors' of this energy, similar to Reich's 'accumulators' which used alternating organic and inorganic layers.
• Leys and Feng-Shui: The concept of 'Dragon Lines' in Feng-Shui, where energy flows along linear features, is compared to the attraction of organic energy to linear transmission paths.
• Meteorological Phenomena: Reich theorized that organic energy concentration in the atmosphere causes rain cloud formation. The 'Cloudbuster' device, built by Reich, was designed to draw energy from the sky and groundwater to influence cloud formation.
• Earth-Lights: Excess organic energy released from a saturated accumulator can manifest as luminous emissions, potentially explaining phenomena like bubbles of light observed near barrows.
• Underground Water: The affinity of organic energy for water aligns with dowsers' claims that earthworks are built over 'blind springs.'
• UFO Manifestations: The issue posits a link between organic energy concentrations and UFO sightings, suggesting that UFOs might be manifestations of this energy rather than 'nuts-and-bolts' craft. The disappearance of UFOs when targeted by a Cloudbuster is explained by depriving them of their formative energy.
• Geo-Magnetic Anomalies: Crop circle features are suggested to be manifestations of the planet's 'orgone energy blanket,' not just simple terrestrial magnetism.
• Healing Effects: Reports of healing properties experienced at crop circle sites align with property 17 of organic energy.
• The Two-Stage Formation Process: Drawing on Pat Delgado's theory, the issue suggests circle formation involves a 'Tension/Charge' phase (plants becoming charged with energy) followed by a 'Discharge/Release' phase, possibly triggered by external events like energy waves along leys.
• Over-Fertilisation of Crops: The increase in artificial fertilizer use post-WWII is linked to intensified plant energy, providing a rich medium for organic energy to manifest, potentially explaining the rise in crop circles.
• Gap-Seeking and Tramlines: The attraction of organic energy to linear features like tractor tramlines is discussed as a potential factor in how crop formations are inscribed.

Jenny Randles' Perspective

Jenny Randles, a UFO investigator, shares her views, emphasizing that while she supports the plasma vortex theory and Dr. Meaden's work, she believes UFO evidence is not explained by a single solution. She posits that much of UFO evidence could be a branch of 'avant-garde meteorology,' requiring a bridge between UFOlogists and meteorologists. Randles clarifies that her book 'The UFO Conspiracy' explores the alien hypothesis but does not state she believes aliens are visiting Earth in spaceships, considering such evidence to be only a small percentage of the overall UFO mystery.

Practical Aspects and Research

• Diagrams: The issue includes detailed diagrams (Diagram 1 and Diagram 2, and others on subsequent pages) illustrating various crop circle formations, their dimensions, and internal structures, such as spirals, spurs, and overlaying rings.
• Measurements: A section titled 'Squaring the Circles' emphasizes the importance of accurate measurements for understanding crop circle events. It advises using long measuring tapes and obtaining farmer's permission, with a diagram provided by Peter Baillie on how to conduct measurements.
• Bibliography: A comprehensive bibliography lists works by Wilhelm Reich, Colin Wilson, Myron Sharaf, Tom Graves, Stephen Skinner, Peter Paget, Robert Price, Delgado & Andrews, Ralph Noyes, Meaden & Elsom, and Paul Ashbee, related to orgone energy, UFOs, and crop circles.
• Bits & Pieces: This section includes apologies for delayed articles, mentions the possibility of re-publishing back issues, and outlines future content such as book reviews and formation surveys. It also includes a correction regarding Ordnance Survey co-ordinates for crop circles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the search for a unifying theoretical framework for anomalous phenomena, particularly crop circles. The editorial stance leans towards exploring naturalistic explanations, especially those involving energy fields and atmospheric processes, as championed by Wilhelm Reich and Dr. Meaden. There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation, accurate data collection (measurements), and bridging the gap between different fields of research, such as UFOlogy, meteorology, and archaeology. The magazine encourages readers to engage with these theories and contribute to research, positioning itself as a premier organization for crop circle research.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 2, Number 1
Date: 1991
Publisher: Bob Kingsley and John Brocks
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of The Circular, titled 'EYE ON THE PRESS CAN WE BELIEVE WHAT WE READ?', critically examines the reporting and historical context of crop circles. Written primarily by Bob Kingsley, the magazine aims to sift through the 'smoke-screen of innuendo and calumny' often surrounding the phenomenon.

The Plott Thickens

The lead article, 'The Plott Thickens', by Bob Kingsley, investigates the historical claims surrounding crop circles. It begins by referencing a report by Toby Moore in The Daily Telegraph (August 16, 1990) which highlighted the 17th-century work of Professor Robert Plott. Plott, a Fellow of the Royal Society and Professor of Chemistry at Oxford, had dismissed supernatural explanations for circular patterns in crops, attributing them to 'lightening, exploded from the clouds most times in a circular manner'. Moore's article also linked Plott's work to that of Dr. Terence Meaden and to the book 'Crop Circles: A Mystery Solved' by Paul Fuller and Jenny Randles, suggesting they had reached similar conclusions.

Kingsley's investigation reveals a discrepancy: neither Meaden's research nor the Fuller/Randles book mentions lightning as a cause. Further inquiry uncovers an article by David J Reynolds in the Journal of Meteorology (November 1990), which discussed Plott's work based on Mike Rowe's 1686 book, 'The Natural History of Staffordshire'. Reynolds' report also touches upon a curious tale from August 1590 in the Netherlands involving 'cloven-hoofed people' and a 'whirlwind'. However, Reynolds' primary analysis of Plott's text suggests that Plott was describing 'fairy rings' caused by fungus, rather than crop circles, noting that Plott found 'white hoar or vinew' and a 'musty rancid smell' in the soil.

Kingsley contacted Toby Moore, who stated he was alerted to Plott's work by a reader and had spoken to Paul Fuller. Moore admitted he had disposed of his notes and couldn't recall specifics but noted no complaints about his article. Fuller, when contacted by Kingsley, clarified his position. He stated he first learned of Plott's work through David Reynolds and that while he acknowledged the possibility of historical crop circles, he did not endorse Moore's conclusion that Plott's circles were definitively crop circles. Fuller felt his quote in Moore's article was misrepresented, suggesting the article gave a false impression of his endorsement.

Further Investigations and Media Scrutiny

The article then details the coincidental timing of these discoveries over three years, tracing the flow of information between Reynolds, Moore, Fuller, and Meaden. It highlights how the myth of crop circles existing for over 300 years was being spread.

Kingsley also addresses an article by Philip Milne in the Today newspaper (February 2, 1991), which described Professor Hiroshi Kikuchi's theory that crop circles are formed by electrically charged dust particles creating turbulence. Kingsley points out the implausibility of this theory, particularly how dust from Dover could affect circles across the country, and questions Milne's assertion that circles were first recorded in England over 300 years ago. Attempts to trace Philip Milne and the origin of the story with Today newspaper and the Press Association proved fruitless, suggesting the name might have been fabricated and the story inaccurate, including a misidentified photograph of circles in a Japanese rice paddy.

Keeping in Touch

The magazine includes a comprehensive section titled 'Keeping in Touch', detailing how members and the public can contact the CCCS (Centre for Crop Circle Studies). It lists contact points for general enquiries, subscriptions, local branches, research topics (Physiological & Psychological Effects, Physical Phenomena, Crop Research, Non-Conventional Hypotheses), and Field Operations. Telephone hotlines for reporting events in different regions of the UK are also provided.

What a Picture!

A full-page feature showcases a photograph of a crop pictogram that appeared at Crawley, north of Salisbury, on July 13, 1990, photographed by Mac Smith. This image is noted as being featured in 'The Crop Circle Enigma', a CCCS-inspired book published by Gateway Books. The magazine offers a set of 8 postcard-sized prints of 1990 pictograms for sale through Gateway Books.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of media reporting on crop circles, the historical context of the phenomenon, and the scientific investigation into their causes. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensationalized or inaccurate reporting, emphasizing the need for careful research and verification of claims. The magazine actively encourages reader participation and information sharing through the CCCS network, positioning itself as a platform for debunking myths and clarifying facts surrounding crop circles.