The Circular - 2004 No 52

Magazine Overview

Title: The CIRCULAR
Issue: No. 52
Date: Spring 2004
Publisher: CENTRE FOR CROP CIRCLE STUDIES
Price: £3.50

This issue of The CIRCULAR, the journal of the Centre for Crop Circle Studies, delves into the intersection of ancient mythology, spirituality, and the phenomenon of crop circles. It features articles exploring symbolic connections, reporting on recent formations, and presenting scientific and anecdotal evidence of unusual effects.

Articles and Features

The Wisdom of the North

Michael Green's article explores the ancient European traditions and their connection to crop circles. He discusses the significance of Yggdrasill, the Norse World Tree, as a symbol of creation and spiritual structure, noting its presence in ancient carvings and its potential representation in crop formations. The article posits that modern crop circles are appearing with explicit meaning for the current age, drawing parallels with prehistoric symbols.

The Tree of Life and Yggdrasill

Green elaborates on Yggdrasill, describing its symbolic features such as roots in the heavens and earth, and its role as a life-giving aspect of Nature. He connects it to the Kabbalistic Tree of Life and the concept of 'nine worlds'. The article references a petroglyph of the Tree of Life found on Snowdon Carr, Yorkshire, dating to c.3300BC, which is interpreted as a teaching mandala of the local cosmic system.

The World Tree Crop Formations

This section discusses crop formations that are believed to represent the World Tree. A formation at Novy Jicin, Czech Republic, discovered on July 25, 1999, is highlighted as an extraordinary representation of an oak tree with four main limbs, aligning with the 'Timeless Wisdom' concept of a fourfold structure. Other formations, like those at Alton Barnes and Farley Mount, are noted but dismissed as hoaxes due to their striped construction.

The Odin Bracteate

Michael Green examines an iconographic object, a gold bracteate, likely related to the worship of Odin, the premier god of the Northern World. The article details the iconography of Odin on the bracteate, including his flowing hair, single eye (symbolizing the sacrifice of objective knowledge for intuitive truth), and his association with the Sun God. Symbols on the bracteate, such as the 'Alfoor' (Trinity symbol) and the 'wheel of Aesir' (swastika), are discussed in relation to cosmic structure and deity.

The Solar Logos and Symbols of Odin

This part of the article explains the esoteric concept of the Solar Logos as the Supreme Spiritual Being of our system. It then breaks down the symbols associated with Odin, including the three circles (Alfoor) representing the 'Second Logos' and the 'wheel of Aesir'. These symbols are linked to Indo-Aryan cultures and their reappearance in crop circles.

The Triplicity of Odin and The Cosmic Nuclear Family

The article touches upon the recognized threefold nature of deity in ancient traditions and Odin's recognition as such. It also introduces the concept of the 'Cosmic Nuclear Family' as an analogy for the creative impulse that produced the cosmos, contrasting it with more arid cosmologies. Recent astronomical studies on merging galaxies are mentioned as evidence of star system formation.

Triplet Crop Formations

This section categorizes crop formations into three types of 'triplets'. Type 1 formations, like those at Hinwil, Switzerland, and Cheesefoot Head, Hampshire, are simple triangular patterns. Type 2 formations feature a linear arrangement with a larger central circle, exemplified by a formation at West Beckham, Norfolk. Type 3 formations, such as the one at Lewes, East Sussex, incorporate four elements, representing the originating force and its threefold expression, linked to the concept of God's structure.

The 'Breath of God'

This part discusses the concept of the 'Breath of God' or 'Ether of Life', equated with the Holy Spirit, as the permeating force of the cosmos. It relates this to the structure of a tree and the ancient Celtic tradition, referencing Djwhal Khul's description of the process of energy pouring through higher planes and forming the 'Causal Body'.

Wind of Change

Lucy Pringle recounts her experiences in 2003, describing it as a 'strange year' for crop circles, possibly reflecting global unrest. She details a specific formation at Ogbourne St George, Wiltshire, and the unusual physical sensations experienced by herself and researcher Christopher Weeks within it, including nausea and disorientation. A subsequent incident involving a missing bottle from a control experiment within the formation raises questions about its nature.

Seed Protein Content and Cravings

This article presents the results of an analysis of seed samples from a crop formation, which showed significant changes in protein levels between the control and perimeter samples. It also explores the psychological effects reported by visitors to crop circles, such as intense cravings for chocolate and red wine, linking these to dopamine production and potential psychoactive effects of chocolate chemicals.

UFO Reports, Interference Effects and the Crop Circle Link

Geoff Falla's article investigates UFO reports and interference effects, suggesting a potential link with crop circles. The piece touches upon the idea that these phenomena might be related, possibly indicating a common underlying cause or influence.

Montague Keen (1925-2004) - An Appreciation

This is a brief tribute to Montague Keen, a figure associated with the Centre for Crop Circle Studies.

Summer Wonderland 2004

Michael Newark's contribution likely discusses crop circle discoveries or observations from the summer of 2004.

Keeping One Eye Open...

Ray Cox's piece offers a concluding thought or perspective on observing the crop circle phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the symbolic and mythological interpretations of crop circles, particularly drawing parallels with ancient Norse and European traditions. There is a strong emphasis on the spiritual and esoteric dimensions of the phenomenon. The journal also presents scientific investigations into the physical effects of crop circles, including seed analysis and physiological responses of visitors. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives and research findings without necessarily endorsing a single explanation, while maintaining a focus on the 'wisdom' and 'structure' inherent in the phenomenon and its potential connection to higher consciousness or cosmic principles.

This issue of The CIRCULAR, number 52, dated July 2003, delves into the phenomenon of crop circles, presenting research on their effects and associated reports of UFO activity. The cover prominently features "CROP CIRCLE RESULTS JULY 2003" with detailed tables and charts of hormone level tests conducted on individuals inside and outside crop formations.

Psycho-Physical Changes and Biomonitoring

The issue details investigations into the psycho-physical changes invoked within crop circles. Researchers Peter Staples and Isabel Maxwell Cade, along with a team including Lucy Pringle, conducted tests using biomonitoring instruments such as Electrical Skin Resistance (ESR) and Electro-encephalograph (EEG). They measured subjects' responses both inside crop formations and in control areas. The approach aimed to appraise corresponding changes in mental/emotional states, interpreting shifts in psycho-physical terminology like 'shift from lethargic towards relaxed-and-alert'. The methodology, developed by C. Maxwell Cade, relies on empirical data correlating subjective accounts with objective instrument readings.

Hormone Response Data

Page 1 presents a table of hormone values (Adrenalin, Cortisol, Estradiol, Estriol, Estrone, Glucagon, Hydrocortisone, Melatonin, TSH, Thyroxine, T3 Triiodothyronine) for several individuals (Lucy, Becky, Joanne, Isabel, Chris, Jim, JJ) across two tests. Accompanying bar charts visually represent these results, with one chart specifically focusing on 'Hormone TSH' and another titled 'Chris - Hormone Response' comparing 'After' and 'Before' measurements for various hormones.

EEG and ESR Findings

Detailed findings are presented for subjects like Chris, Linda, Jim, Joanne, Jacky, and Lucy. Chris showed transient brain rhythm patterns, with more beta activity and frequent 'alpha blocking' within the formation, indicating a 'shutting down' of the autonomic nervous system and increased lethargy. Linda's EEG suggested 'imaging or daydreaming', with a tendency for brain activity to 'close down' within the formation. Jim exhibited a pattern interpreted as an 'internalised' state with 'alpha blocking'. Joanne showed a lot of alpha activity, but within the formation, also displayed 'alpha blocking' and more theta activity. Jacky appeared largely uninfluenced, showing signs of increased self-awareness. Lucy's EEG patterns were transient, indicating mainly externalised awareness, with no significant difference within the formation, though her ESR increased and peripheral temperature fell.

Conclusions on Psycho-Physical Effects

The conclusions suggest that for most subjects, the experience within crop circles led to a general reduction in metabolism and autonomic nervous system activity, a 'switching off' in the brain, and a reduction in self-centredness and empathy. This was interpreted as losing the link between conscious awareness and subconscious signals. Jacky was an exception, showing increased self-awareness. Overall, the effect was a 'lulling of the mind' unless subjects asserted their self-centredness.

UFO Reports, Interference Effects, and the Crop Circle Link

Geoff Falla's article explores the connection between UFO sightings, strange physical effects, and crop circles. He notes that while many UFO reports have conventional explanations, some involve unusual effects, particularly on vehicles and aircraft. These are termed 'EM effects', often interfering with electrical systems. The article highlights that over 600 such reports exist globally, with more than 80 recorded in Britain, concentrated in Wiltshire and Hampshire.

Historical Incidents

The article details numerous specific incidents, primarily from the 1960s and 1970s, involving vehicle malfunctions (engines, lights, radios) coinciding with sightings of luminous objects or strange phenomena. Notable cases include:

• August 20, 1965, Warminster: Motorcycle engine stalled, spheres of light seen, watches stopped.
• September 7, 1965, Warminster: Car engine cut out, aerial vibrations, flickering headlights.
• October 8, 1965, Warminster: Car engine misfired, headlights dimmed, dark object seen.
• September 24, 1966, between Tilshead and Shrewton: Car engine, lights, radio failed; red haze and humming sound.
• October 26, 1967, Hook, Hants: Vehicle electrical system failed, dark object stationary overhead.
• November 6, 1967, Avon and Sopley, Hants: Lorry headlights failed, large egg-shaped object appeared, causing vehicle malfunctions and environmental damage.
• November 6, 1967, Cley Hill, Warminster: Car engine faltered, interior became hot, glowing disc seen.
• August 25, 1975, near Warminster: Car headlights and sidelights failed, engine cut out.
• November 14, 1976, near Winchester: Car shuddered violently, orange glow seen, cigar-shaped object appeared.
• December 30, 1976, Winchester: Light seen, whistling sound, car rocking, occupants reported being in a craft.
• March 7, 1977, Nether Wallop, Hants: Car engine spluttered, humming oval object seen.
• November 7, 1978, Portsdown, near Portsmouth: Bright light seen, object hovered over car, no speed gained.
• 1980, Winchester: Object landed in a cornfield, causing vehicles to be unable to start.
• July 10, 1990, Alton Barnes: Buzzing noise heard, car batteries found dead after a large crop circle formation appeared.

The Link to Crop Circles

The article emphasizes that the concentration of UFO interference effect incidents in Wiltshire and Hampshire mirrors the locations of many crop circles. It suggests that these interference effects may have preceded crop circle appearances, potentially being a forerunner to later events. The author posits a definite link, noting that half of the vehicle interference cases in these counties occurred in areas also known for crop circles, and some incidents directly coincided with crop circle appearances.

Other Features

Photo Gallery 2003 (Part 2)

This section showcases aerial photographs of various crop circle formations from June, July, and August 2003, located in Wiltshire and Hampshire, with credits to photographers Busty Taylor and Lucy Pringle.

Reports & Sketches

John Sayer reports on Norfolk's first circle of 2004, a clockwise circle in experimental rye crop at Marsham and Aylsham. He also references an item from Ute Weyer concerning a circle maker from the early 1990s.

Science and the Circle Phenomenon

An announcement for the 2004 Annual Conference of the Centre for Crop Circle Studies, to be held on June 26th, 2004, at Friends House, London. The programme includes talks on authenticity, geophysical effects, alien messages, and emerging evidence of Gaia, with contributions from Michael Green, Andrew King, Paul Vigay, George Bishop, and Jim Lyons.

Nexus Magazine Advertisement

An advertisement for Nexus Magazine, describing it as a publication covering science, health, politics, and the paranormal, and listing UK newsagents and specialist shops where it can be found, along with subscription details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of crop circles and their effects on human consciousness, the persistent reports of UFO sightings and associated electromagnetic interference, and the potential link between these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained events, presenting research data and anecdotal evidence to explore these complex subjects. The magazine encourages readers to consider the possibility of connections between seemingly disparate events, particularly in the context of crop circles and UFOs in specific geographical areas.

Title: The CIRCULAR
Issue: #52
Publisher: Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of The Circular (#52) delves into various aspects of the crop circle phenomenon, personal experiences within the research community, and critiques of skeptical organizations. It features a mix of personal accounts, research summaries, and reflections on the broader implications of studying unexplained phenomena.

Article 1: An Attempt to Stop Me Flying in 2003?

Busty Taylor, a pilot with a long history at Thruxton airfield since 1948, recounts an incident where a rumour was spread about him flying Lucy Pringle around crop circles. Taylor vehemently denies this, offering his flying logbook and driving school diary as proof. He suspects this rumour was an attempt to make his flying difficult, questioning the motive behind such an action. Taylor explains the stringent rules now in place for flying passengers not known to the flying club, including signing forms and logging flight details, due to increased security concerns. He expresses his inability to understand why someone would try to impede his flying, suggesting a potential commercial motive and questioning the credibility of any 'croppie' who might have started the rumour.

Article 2: Montague Keen (1925-2004)

This section is an appreciation by Michael Green of Montague Keen, a prominent early researcher for the CCCS, who passed away on January 15, 2004. Keen joined the CCCS in 1991 and served as Scientific Officer, contributing significantly with his intellectual calibre and rational approach. A distinguished agronomist and international journalist, Keen also had extensive experience in water conservancy and parliamentary affairs. In his seventies, he began addressing crop circle science, producing a booklet in 1991 titled 'Scientific Evidence for the Crop Circle Phenomenon.' His work critically examined issues like polyembryony, cellular changes, and radiation measurements, and he notably critiqued Dr. W.C. Levengood's research. Keen was part of the CCCS Scientific Research Panel in 1991 and published protocols for crop formation examination. He was involved in the American-sponsored Project Argus in 1992, which used advanced equipment to investigate energy inputs into crop formations. The article highlights Keen's role in the founding of the short-lived Scientific Research Committee. It discusses the challenges faced by the CCCS, including the rise of hoaxing, the influence of organizations like CSICOP, and the shift from objective research to 'appreciation societies.' The Bythorn crop formation incident in 1993 is detailed, where Keen identified it as a hoax, leading to his public vilification and resignation as Scientific Officer in 1994. Green reflects on Keen's intellectual honesty and his belief that the CCCS must establish the objective reality of the phenomenon before exploring metaphysical aspects. Keen is remembered as a decent, honorable man whose work significantly contributed to understanding the crop circle phenomenon.

Article 3: Summer Wonderland 2004

Michael Newark reflects on the crop circle season of 2004, noting that while his computer was offline, he observed many formations from web sites. He describes how the season started slowly but intensified with hot summer days, particularly in the UK. Newark emphasizes his ability to dowse the 'earth force' of crop circles directly from photos, even from web images, negating the need for extensive travel. He discusses how ancient sites also display this sacred earth force. The article touches on the loss of heritage with the removal of standing stones and how the earth force remains. Newark highlights formations in Wiltshire, particularly at Windmill Hill and Milk Hill, noting their powerful spider's web patterns and spiral/radial earth forces. He praises the Avebury Trusloe formation for its strong Judaic and Islamic designs and notes that hoaxers seemed to stay away from this area. The 'Swallow' crop circle near Milk Hill and Adam's Grave is described in detail, including its powerful leys and the effect of parting the crop. Newark mentions a dowsing time of 302 seconds for this formation, with power originating from 5 miles and 644 yards below. He reviews the Photo Gallery in issue 51, liking five out of eight photos for their aura and earth forces, while deeming others as man-made. A formation at Marlborough is compared to a previous Sibson crop circle, with a dowsing time of 101 seconds and power from 6 miles and 670 yards.

Newark also discusses his dowsing of crop circles from around the world, expressing faith in his ability to identify natural earth forces. He notes formations in the US, Poland, Switzerland, and Canada, finding Canada particularly exciting with its ice circles and a UFO sighting. He expresses skepticism about some German crop circles, wondering if UK hoaxers were working there. Newark found a large formation at Green Lane near Avebury powerful, but others like West Overton Hill and Tegdown Hill unimpressive or hoaxed. He concludes that despite some hoaxing, the summer of 2004 produced many wonderful crop circles, with Germany suffering the worst from hoaxing.

Article 4: Cornelia

This short piece by Christine Rhone, accompanied by an illustration, suggests that 'The Runes say MORE mysterious messages in the harvests!'

Article 5: Keeping One Eye Open...

Ray Cox critically examines CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), which he likens to a 'cyclop' for its one-eyed perspective. He describes CSICOP as a debunking group founded in 1976, aggressively dismissing all belief in the paranormal as dangerous. Cox notes that CSICOP's journal, 'The Scientific Enquirer,' has had notable figures among its readership, but its current board has few scientists. He quotes CSICOP's director stating that belief in the paranormal is dangerous to science and society. Cox points out CSICOP's past policy of not conducting research, attributing it to results not aligning with their ideology. He contrasts CSICOP with scientific societies, noting its lack of empirical research publication on the paranormal and its public-focused conferences geared towards the media. He identifies known debunkers associated with CSICOP, such as James Randi and Philip Klass, and mentions that members are often recruited for prestige rather than research expertise. Cox also highlights CSICOP's anti-religious sentiment and tendency to support atheism, seeing scientific rationalism as antagonistic to the paranormal and supernatural. He discusses the 'Trickster' phenomenon, suggesting it plays a role in CSICOP's activities and contributes to destabilization through arguments, splits, and polarization. Cox argues that while skepticism is valid, debunking can become irrational when faced with paranormal evidence. He acknowledges CSICOP's contribution in emphasizing the association of the paranormal with deception, particularly in the context of crop circle hoaxing, but finds this small comfort.

Article 6: Crop Circle Merchandise

This page lists various merchandise related to crop circles available for purchase, including:

• Books: 'Crop Circles: The Greatest Mystery of Modern Times' by Lucy Pringle.
• Postcards: Sets of crop circle images from various years.
• Mug: A white mug with a 'Triple Spiral' design.
• Pens: 'Double Helix' crop formation pens in various colors.
• Posters: High-quality photographs of Stonehenge and the Avebury 'Spider's Web' formation.
• Cartoon Book: 'Paranormal Pranks' by Peter Eade.
• Jigsaw Puzzle: A wooden jigsaw of the Wentworth White Horse.
• 2004 Calendar: Featuring crop circle formations and sacred places.

Orders can be sent to Lucy Pringle, with contact details and payment instructions provided.

Article 7: CCCS Contacts

This section provides a comprehensive list of contacts for the Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS) across various regions in the UK, Canada, and the USA. It includes names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses for regional representatives. It also lists annual membership rates for CCCS, including options for UK, Europe, and Rest of World, along with contact information for inquiries and payments to Dr. Andrew King.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation and understanding of crop circles, the challenges posed by hoaxing and skepticism, and the personal experiences of researchers. There's a strong emphasis on the importance of scientific rigor, as exemplified by Montague Keen's approach, contrasted with the dismissive stance of organizations like CSICOP. The magazine also highlights the spiritual or energetic aspects of crop circles, referred to as 'earth force,' and the personal impact these phenomena have on individuals. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for open-minded yet critical investigation into the paranormal, while acknowledging the difficulties and controversies within the field.