The Circular - 1992 Vol 2 No 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of "The Circular: The Quarterly Crop Circle Magazine" is Volume 2, Number 4, dated January 1992, with a cover price of £1.75. It is published by Bob Kingsley and John Brocks, with Bob Kingsley serving as the Editor and John Brocks handling Design & Layout. The magazine includes information from The Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS).

Introduction

Bob Kingsley's introduction marks his final issue as editor, after sixteen months since the magazine's inception in August 1990. He notes the significant increase in circulation due to the tie-up with CCCS, which now has over 1,000 members. Kingsley explains his departure is due to changing personal circumstances and a lack of spare time. He expresses regret at leaving as the subject becomes more interesting, highlighting articles on potential hoaxing at Cheesefoot Head, scientific findings refuting some hoaxing speculation, eye-witness accounts from the 1960s, discussions on scientific methodology, and investigations into specific formations like 'Dragon's Footprints' and the 'Mandelbrot Event'. He also mentions his own investigation into the 'Doug and Dave' story yielding little concrete evidence. Kingsley assures readers he wishes to remain in contact and may contribute to future issues, possibly managing a letters section. He apologizes for the late arrival of this issue, attributing it to production pressures, and asks for patience with the CCCS as they continue publishing.

Kingsley extends thanks to various individuals who supported the project, including regular contributors like Phil Corker, Simon Burton, and John Langrish, as well as those who provided moral support and information such as Dave Probert, Simon Shavelar, Vinny Stroud, James Chapman, Anthony Horn, and Ray Cox. He also thanks George Wingfield, Busty Taylor, Richard Andrews, Alik Bartholomew, and the research panellists. Special thanks are given to Ralph Noyes for his crucial role in The Circular's development and to John Brocks, his partner, for his patience and support.

The issue also announces the "First International Conference on Crop Circles: The Enigma For The Nineties" to be held at King Alfred's College, Winchester, UK, on July 17th-19th, 1992, featuring international speakers and aerial films.

Articles and Features

Evidence of Hoaxing at Cheesefoot Head?

By Ken Brown, this article examines crop formations at Cheesefoot Head, Hampshire, focusing on underlying crop lays. Brown suggests that narrow lines of flattened stalks, often hidden beneath the main crop lay, indicate deliberate hoaxing. He presents photographic evidence and measurements from three formations, arguing that these hidden lines were laid down before the main circles were formed. Brown believes hoaxing is more widespread and organized than previously acknowledged. He discusses the implications for other formations with similar characteristics, including flowers, laddergrams, and dumbbell shapes.

The Evidence

This section details the photographic evidence gathered by Ken Brown, showing underlying crop lines in formations at Chilcomb Down and the Cheesefoot Head Flower Formation. The analysis suggests that hoaxers may have laid the main circles and pathways in a specific sequence, leaving behind evidence of their movements in the form of hidden crop lines.

My Background

Ken Brown explains his background and motivation for investigating crop circles, joining CCCS in late 1990 and becoming deeply involved. He was introduced to the Cheesefoot Head Monitoring Group and began examining the underlying crop lays of formations.

How Widespread Is Hoaxing?

This section extrapolates from the Cheesefoot Head findings to suggest that many other crop formations exhibiting similar design features (narrow lines, specific designs, geographical grouping) may also be hoaxed. The article lists various designs, including flowers, insectograms, and dumbbell shapes, implying a widespread hoaxing phenomenon, particularly in Wiltshire during 1991.

Phew! and Cor Blimey!

In this concluding section, Bob Kingsley reflects on the difficult decision to present evidence that points towards widespread hoaxing. He encourages readers to use their own judgment and imagination, emphasizing that his aim is to present factual evidence rather than convert anyone. He urges caution before declaring formations 'genuine' and asks people to stop ridiculing Doug and Dave, whose actions may have been misunderstood.

Research Panel Reports: Human Effects Working Group: Preliminary Findings

By Diana Clift, this report presents preliminary findings from a survey on the human effects of crop circles. Out of 43 accounts analyzed, a majority reported unpleasant experiences, including nausea, headaches, fatigue, and feelings of anger or fear. Only 19% reported beneficial effects. The report notes that these effects are often short-lived but can sometimes be prolonged. It highlights the difficulty in collecting data and the potential for psychological factors, such as expectation, to influence reported experiences. The report also mentions ongoing experiments, including testing volunteers for chronic ailments and brain electrical activity, and calls for more contributions to the survey.

Crop Research: Scientific Advance Towards Identity Of The Force!

By Montague Keen, this article discusses scientific efforts to understand crop circles. It highlights evidence suggesting that short-lived, intensive bombardment by deuterium nuclei is a major causative agent. The article mentions a forthcoming CCCS publication, "1991: Scientific Evidence for the Crop Circle Phenomenon." Keen discusses the challenges of research, including the need for careful sampling and the impact of hoaxing uncertainty. He references findings from US biophysicist Lefty Levengood, who identified polyembryony and nodal swellings in plant samples, possibly caused by intense energy waves. The article also touches upon the potential for unusual radiation to cause short-lived radioactive isotopes and chronic effects in field workers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation into the authenticity of crop circles, with a strong focus on evidence of hoaxing, particularly at Cheesefoot Head. Scientific inquiry into the physical causes of crop circles, including energy phenomena and plant abnormalities, is also prominent. The magazine also addresses the subjective human experiences and potential psychological effects associated with crop circles. The editorial stance, as articulated by Bob Kingsley in his final piece, is one of caution and encouraging critical thinking, urging readers to examine evidence objectively and avoid premature conclusions about the 'genuineness' of formations.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 2, Number 4
Date: December 1991 / January 1992

This issue of The Circular magazine, published by the CCCS (Civilian Crop Circle Study), delves into various aspects of the crop circle phenomenon, presenting a mix of scientific inquiry, philosophical speculation, and personal accounts.

The Fourth Dimension and Crop Circles

Terry Wilson's article, "The Fourth Dimension," explores the possibility that crop circles are created by entities from a higher dimension. He uses the analogy of a two-dimensional being on a page trying to comprehend a third dimension to illustrate how humans might struggle to understand a fourth-dimensional influence. Wilson suggests that phenomena like 'monument mimics,' unexplained sounds, and the ability of objects to appear and disappear could be explained by this higher-dimensional interaction. He posits that the 'dumbbell' and 'quincunx' designs in crop circles might symbolize a transition from three to four dimensions.

Barbara Davies contributes "The Cornish 'Dragon' Footprints," detailing her investigation into unusual large 'footprints' found in a crop field near Callington, Cornwall. These prints, some resembling those of a dinosaur or a large bear, were distinct from typical crop circle formations and seemed to possess a physical, organic presence. Davies links these events to the growing number of crop circles and notes a psychological reaction in people who feel a personal connection to specific formations.

Beth Davis's article, "A Mandelbrot In Circles," describes a remarkable crop circle discovered in Ickleton, Cambridgeshire, which was a near-replica of a Mandelbrot Set. The formation, discovered by a pilot, exhibited characteristics of other crop circles, including the presence of small weeds growing between the laid stems. The article notes the mathematical complexity of the Mandelbrot Set and the mystery surrounding its appearance in a crop field, with no response to appeals for information from potential hoaxers.

Scientific and Mechanistic Approaches

An article discusses discoveries in Tennessee where soil samples from crop circles revealed evidence of short-lived radioactive isotopes, possibly formed by deuterium nuclei bombardment. This raises concerns about potential health risks for those entering formations soon after their appearance and highlights the need for standardized investigation procedures.

John Cole, a physicist, writes a letter criticizing the 'mechanistic' approach to science, particularly as applied to crop circles by figures like Dr. Terence Meaden. Cole argues that mechanism, a philosophy stemming from Newton, is inadequate for understanding modern physics (relativity and quantum mechanics) and phenomena like consciousness and the paranormal. He advocates for a more open-minded, 'scientific' approach that integrates observation with an open mind, suggesting that many scientists' dismissal of the paranormal stems from this outdated mechanistic worldview.

Peter Williams, in "Viewpoint 2: The Appliance Of Science," addresses criticisms of science's inability to account for crop circles and its perceived closed-mindedness. He defends science's aim to provide detailed descriptions and explanations based on available evidence and probabilities. Williams asserts that while hoaxing is a plausible explanation for many formations, any new evidence that challenges current scientific theories would be welcomed. He concludes that the hoax theory can make no reliable forecasts, unlike scientific theories.

Reader Contributions and CCCS Activities

The magazine includes several letters from readers. Wallace Binns provides information about a crop circle incident in Charlton, Wiltshire, in 1963, involving mysterious holes and flattened crop, which was initially baffling to the BBC and Army. Mark Stephen Jones shares a Native American story about a circular pathway on the prairie, suggesting it might be an ancient precursor to crop rings.

Larry Grant seeks communication with individuals experiencing electrical communication phenomena related to crop circles, such as television interference and humming sounds. He offers assistance for those interested in electronic research.

The CCCS announces upcoming events, including lectures, workshops, and its annual general meeting. The organization is also planning a series of publications to disseminate research findings, including a handbook for crop circle investigators.

Other Topics

An article touches upon the 'Cropcircle Communique' video, which investigates the phenomenon with expert interviews and aerial footage. Another section highlights a 'Light Directory' being compiled by a New Age group in Essex.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the mystery of crop circles, the debate between scientific and paranormal explanations, and the exploration of consciousness and higher dimensions. The CCCS, as the publisher, appears to adopt a stance that encourages open inquiry, blending rigorous investigation with an openness to unconventional theories, while also acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes and the limitations of purely mechanistic scientific approaches. The magazine serves as a platform for sharing research, reader experiences, and fostering dialogue within the crop circle community.

Title: The Circular
Issue: Volume 2, Number 4
Date: Winter 1991
Publisher: The Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS)

This issue of The Circular delves deeply into the crop circle phenomenon, with a strong focus on the controversies and investigations surrounding the 1991 season. The cover story, "HOAX - OR WHAT?" by Bob Kingsley, tackles the claims made by Doug Bower and Dave Chorley and the mysterious involvement of 'MBF Services'. The magazine also features articles exploring the 'Living Earth' theory, the potential for crop circles to be Earth's communication, and the connection to aboriginal wisdom and ancient prophecies.

HOAX - OR WHAT? by Bob Kingsley

Bob Kingsley's extensive article investigates the claims of Doug Bower and Dave Chorley, who asserted they created many crop circles. The article scrutinizes the role of 'MBF Services', a company that held copyright to the Doug and Dave story, and notes the reticence of Assistant Editor Lloyd Turner when questioned about it. Doug Bower himself denied knowledge of MBF Services, creating further confusion. Kingsley explores the possibility of a disinformation campaign, referencing Paul Fuller's Crop Watcher magazine and the media's handling of the story, including a TV documentary. The article highlights inconsistencies in Bower and Chorley's accounts, such as the timeline of their 'hoax' creation and their denial of replicating formations for the newspaper. The investigation into MBF Services reveals no registered company with that exact name, though similar initials exist. The author also touches upon hearsay suggesting MBF Services might be a 'private newsagency' involved in planting disinformation, possibly linked to a 'restricted' company in the north.

Despite the focus on hoaxes, Kingsley acknowledges evidence that complicates a simple explanation, such as anomalous background radiation readings in soil samples from complex British formations, analyzed in America. He also mentions anecdotal accounts of strange lights and sounds, and footage of a small object examining a formation. The article concludes that while hoaxes are possible and imitation of crop circle effects has been achieved, crop circles were appearing long before they could be copied, leaving the jury still out on their ultimate origin.

The Living Earth by Joseph Loudon

Joseph Loudon presents a philosophical perspective, viewing Earth as a living planet with its own consciousness. He argues that the diverse communities on Earth form a system where each species has a voice, and that Earth communicates through natural phenomena like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and weather patterns. Loudon suggests that the crop formations are a form of Earth's communication, a symbolism intended to draw attention to environmental issues and the planet's predicament. He links this to the Book of Revelations and believes the Earth needs help, both spiritually and physically.

Middle Ground by Bob

This short piece questions the dichotomy between meteorological explanations and hoaxes for crop circles. The author suggests that the 'Intelligence/Paranormal/Earth Energy' answer, while difficult to define, should also be considered. The piece posits that not all formations can be attributed to plasma vortices or hoaxes, even those created by artists for aesthetic purposes. It highlights anomalous phenomena like unusual lights, sounds, and effects on animals and humans as evidence that points beyond simple explanations.

Dowsing Questions by David Warfield

David Warfield inquires about the validity of using dowsing to detect crop circles. He recounts personal experiences where a pendulum reacted to diagrams of crop circles, similar to reactions described by T. C. Lethbridge to written ink. He asks if this is a known but guarded secret and if map dowsing for crop circles is possible.

Old Samples by B. H. Baily

B. H. Baily shares an observation from 1983, where barley samples from inside a crop circle at Cheesefoot Head showed missing grain, while husks were undamaged. Samples from a standing corn area formed a 'C' shape, while laid-down samples formed identical 'S' shapes. He wonders if anyone has eaten grain from a genuine circle and to what effect.

Passing The Time by Chris Head

Chris Head expresses gratitude to the 'circle makers' for providing him with subjects to doodle during lectures, thanking the magazine for its content.

Signs In Our Time by Diane Brooks

Diane Brooks, a Canadian journalist and crop circles researcher, connects crop patterns to aboriginal wisdom and Earth energy. She notes the recurrence of North American Indian tribal imagery, particularly Hopi symbols, in British crop formations. Brooks believes these patterns are a pictorial testament to the history and wisdom of tribal peoples worldwide, potentially indicating a recurrence of events from Earth's past. She discusses Earth's energy pathways, or 'dragon paths', and how botanical anomalies along these lines signify the Earth's health. Brooks suggests that elaborate crop formations might represent Earth's attempts at purification or a sign of disruptive forces within its generative system. She also considers the possibility that UFOs, with their alleged ability to pass through the Earth, might be linked to these phenomena, potentially representing emergent or entry points.

Brooks highlights the similarity between crop circle designs and ancient Sumerian writing, suggesting that whatever transpired in Earth's history is now recurring. She notes that while simple circles are appearing in the American Midwest, mirroring earlier British formations, the more complex pictograms are proliferating in Britain. The article also touches upon the potential role of marl, a natural insulator, in these formations.

The Hopi Connection

This section further explores the Hopi perspective, referencing their belief in four previous worlds of creation and their sacred stories. The Hopi claim that the circle is the symbol of Creation, and the Medicine Wheel, with its four directions, is a sacred symbol. The swastika is also mentioned as a sacred symbol. The article discusses the 'Ant People' from Hopi myth, who were helpers during their Emergence, and their resemblance to the 'insectograms' and 'laddergrams' found in crop circles. The author suggests that these formations are a reappearance of Hopi creations and that only someone familiar with the secret Hopi culture could have replicated them.

Why Farmers Charge by Polly Carson

Polly Carson addresses criticism that farmers were 'cash in' on the crop circle phenomenon. She explains that after a complex pictogram appeared on their wheat fields in 1990, the site was inundated with visitors. To manage the crowds, protect the crop, and prevent smoking, they decided to charge a nominal entrance fee of £1 (waived for those under 18). This decision was well-received, allowing visitors to stay longer and reducing pressure on other farmers. They also began selling souvenirs like photographs and T-shirts, though they declined offers for more commercial ventures like burger bars.

Surveys and Videos

The magazine lists various crop surveys from 1991, including insectograms and pictograms from different locations in the UK, drawn to scale and dimensioned. It also advertises a crop circle video titled "Undeniable Evidence" featuring Colin Andrews, landowners, and farm workers.

Books for Sale

A list of books related to UFOs, crop circles, and earth mysteries is provided, along with prices and ordering information.

The Circular Compendium of Volume One

An announcement for a limited edition 'Compendium' of the first year of The Circular magazine (1990) is made, offering early articles and previously unpublished material. It highlights topics covered, such as circle origins, eyewitness accounts, and symbolism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing debate between hoax and genuine origins of crop circles, the potential for disinformation, and the exploration of alternative explanations beyond conventional science. There's a strong emphasis on connecting crop circles to deeper meanings, including environmental awareness, Earth's communication, spiritual insights, and ancient wisdom traditions, particularly those of the Hopi and other indigenous peoples. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging readers to consider multiple theories and to look beyond purely rational or scientific explanations, embracing the esoteric and the mysterious aspects of the phenomenon.