UFOlogia Supplemento a Clypeus - 1980 No 12

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFOLOGIA, Supplemento a Clypeus N° 71, is a bimonthly publication focused on UFO criticism and information, curated by Gian Paolo Grassino and Edoardo Russo. The cover, with the headline "L'ASPETTO MITOLOGICO" (The Mythological Aspect), features an illustration of a brain with a thought bubble containing a UFO, suggesting a focus on the psychological and cultural dimensions of the UFO phenomenon. The issue is nominally dated November-December 1980 but was published in July 1981, reflecting significant delays.

Editorial

The editorial addresses the end of the 1980 subscription year and acknowledges the considerable delay in publication, with this issue (N° 12) appearing in July 1981 instead of its nominal December 1980 date. This delay is attributed to the university commitments of the curators and economic considerations. The editorial states that ceasing publication was seriously considered but ultimately decided against to maintain the only Italian-language ufological magazine deemed worthy. However, the publication's periodicity will be affected, becoming at least quarterly, and the dating of issues will reflect the actual publication month rather than a fixed period. The subscription period for six issues will now extend until the end of 1982. The editorial also notes a significant increase in prices due to rising costs (postal, paper, printing) and inflation, necessitating higher prices and a drive to increase subscribers. The cost of a single issue is set at L. 2000, and a six-issue subscription at L. 10,000. Future issues are promised to have changes for the better, maintaining the focus on information, critique, original material, and stimulating Italian researchers.

Table of Contents

The issue features a variety of articles and sections:

• Editoriale (Editorial)
• Il testimone contagiato (The Contaminated Witness) by Paolo Toselli
• Osservatorio (Observatory): "Affare Stringfield: la saga continua!" (The Stringfield Affair: The Saga Continues!) and Necrologies.
• Gli altri dicono (Others Say)
• Inserto: UFO in Piemonte (Insert: UFOs in Piedmont) pages 21-24
• Rapiti da un archetipo? (Kidnapped by an Archetype?) by Hilary Evans
• Controluce (Backlight): "In morte di Alberto Perego" (In Memory of Alberto Perego) by (ER)
• No, io non ci sto: Considerazioni sul mito ufologico (No, I Don't Agree: Considerations on the UFO Myth) by Paolo Fiorino

Article: The Contaminated Witness (Il testimone contagiato) by Paolo Toselli

This article delves into the "mythological aspect" of UFOs, arguing that the phenomenon has become deeply ingrained in popular culture, largely due to media portrayals. It begins by referencing a 1977 letter from US researcher Richard Haines expressing concern about the potential contamination of UFO data by the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." The article notes that when the film arrived in Italy in 1978, it coincided with a surge in UFO-related events and media attention, transforming UFOs into a widespread cultural phenomenon. The author points to the commercial exploitation of the UFO theme in advertising and the visit of Joseph Allen Hynek to Italy in 1978 as further evidence of this trend. A significant event highlighted is the official report released by the Italian Ministry of Defense in March 1978 regarding a UFO sighting by flight crews, which received considerable media coverage.

The article then discusses the "Atlas UFO Robot" television series, which began airing in Italy in 1978 and became immensely popular, particularly among younger audiences. The author argues that these animated series, while seemingly unrelated to real UFO sightings, promote the idea of advanced extraterrestrial beings visiting Earth, contributing to a "martellante condizionamento" (relentless conditioning) that leads people to accept the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation. This conditioning is not limited to television; it has also permeated theater, music, and comics, making the UFO theme ubiquitous.

Toselli questions the genuineness of witness testimonies, citing the common disclaimer that witnesses have not seen UFO-related films or read science fiction, which is often used to validate their accounts. However, he argues that this approach is naive, as society has been conditioned by media, including newspapers, radio, and TV, to accept a hierarchy of beliefs that includes UFOs. He references Walter Sullivan and Ronald Westum, who suggest that a considerable folklore has grown around UFOs, creating expectations that influence what witnesses perceive and report. This folklore, according to Westum, makes it increasingly difficult to find "naive" UFO witnesses, as experiences are now often classified as UFO-related due to pre-existing stereotypes.

The article concludes by stating that it is now almost impossible to find an uncontaminated witness, as everyone, including children, has been exposed to the "UFO image" through various media. This widespread exposure raises concerns about the reliability of future testimonies, as it becomes difficult to distinguish genuine experiences from those shaped by media-induced conditioning. The author notes that while some enthusiasts welcome the increased public interest in UFOs, the goal is not proselytism but to understand the phenomenon. The article also briefly touches upon the development of the "UFO image" over the years, the potential archetypal component of this image, and the relationship between the "spirit of the times," mythological backgrounds, and UFO phenomena.

Article: No, I Don't Agree: Considerations on the UFO Myth (No, io non ci sto: Considerazioni sul mito ufologico) by Paolo Fiorino

This section, though not fully transcribed, is listed in the table of contents and is attributed to Paolo Fiorino. Based on its title and placement, it likely continues the discussion on the cultural and mythological aspects of UFOs, possibly offering a counter-argument or a different perspective on the themes presented by Toselli.

Other Sections

• Fascicoli Arretrati (Back Issues): A list of available back issues of UFOLOGIA, Clypeus, and Notiziario C.T.R.U. is provided, along with their prices.
• Note Bene: Instructions for sending payments for subscriptions and back issues are included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the cultural impact of UFOs, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the psychological conditioning of witnesses. The editorial stance, as expressed in the editorial and the article by Toselli, is critical of the uncritical acceptance of UFO phenomena and emphasizes the need to analyze the phenomenon through a lens of cultural and media influence. The magazine aims to provide information and critique, fostering a more informed discussion within the Italian ufological community. Despite financial and logistical challenges, the publication is committed to continuing its work, albeit with a revised schedule and pricing.

This issue of UFOLOGIA, titled "UFOLOGIA N° 16", published in July-August 1967 by CUGUE, is primarily dedicated to documenting UFO sightings in the Piedmont region of Italy. The magazine presents a detailed catalog of cases, offering a comprehensive look at the phenomenon in that specific geographical area during the 1960s and early 1970s.

"Affare Stringfield: la saga continua!"

This section delves into the ongoing "Stringfield affair," referencing previous articles in UFOLOGIA that discussed the work of American researcher Richard F. Haines. It notes the international success of Stringfield's case compilations and mentions his opuscule "The UFO Crash/Retrieval Syndrome." The article highlights how media attention has led to an influx of new testimonies for Stringfield, some of which have been admitted as false. It also mentions Stringfield's claim of possessing eight photos showing an alien humanoid inside a glass bell at Wright Patterson, with descriptions matching a previously published identikit. The section concludes by noting that while the photos are under study, some sensationalist magazines have already published them.

UFOs and Commercialization

The issue explores the commercial aspect of UFO phenomena, referencing the book "The Roswell Incident" by Charles Berlitz and William Moore, which details a UFO crash near Roswell, New Mexico. It also discusses the film "Hangar 18," describing its plot involving a crashed UFO and recovered aliens. The article notes that the film's ending and photos of the alleged beings are top secret, suggesting that the "Stringfield affair" is both a ufological and commercial phenomenon.

Necrologi (Obituaries)

This section pays tribute to several prominent figures in the ufology community who have recently passed away:

• Alice Wells: A follower of George Adamski, she directed the "Adamsky Foundation" and its publication, "Cosmic Bulletin."
• Dr. Jhon Cleary-Baker: Founder of BUFORA and former director of the BUFORA Journal.
• Captain E.A. Ivar Mackay: Former director of BUFORA, who highlighted correlations between UFO phenomena and the paranormal.
• Cyril Hoskins (Tuesday Lobsang Rampa): Author of several books, including "The Third Eye." The article debunks his claims of being a Tibetan lama, revealing him as an employee who fabricated his persona for financial gain.

Recensioni (Reviews)

This section provides reviews of various ufological publications:

• "Nuova Era" (New Era): A periodic ufology publication from Ostia (Rome). The review notes its improvement from earlier issues, with original articles and authors expressing their opinions. It mentions articles on "angel hair" and Hynekian probability coefficients, as well as guides to doing ufology. The review finds the ideas sound but notes a lack of global perspective and some naivete.
• "Documenti UFO" (UFO Documents): A scientific report on the UFO problem worldwide. This issue focuses on the Sturno case, interpreted in the classic ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) framework, and a brief summary of three Italian IR-3 cases.
• "Il Senzatitolo" (The Untitled): A publication from Reggio Emilia that resumes after a hiatus. The review is critical, stating that despite good intentions, it lacks originality and quality, with a brief and confused article on UFO possibilities in the Gargano region.
• "Nuraghex": This publication is praised for its lively content and the contributions of Giorgio Metta, who often challenges established ideas. However, the review notes that not all comments are accurate and criticizes an article on "UFO plurimi in Argentina" for attacking the "new ufological school" based on hearsay. A more valid article discusses alternative explanations for "paralyzing ray" encounters. The review also points out the use of a book that, while recommended for its reconciliation with ufology, is deemed superficial.
• "Nuove Realtà" (New Realities): An informational booklet from Prato. The review finds it lacking originality, with the ufological section consisting of a catalog of sightings from January 1979 (republished from "Notiziario UFO") and the second part of a report on the Sturno case.

UFO in Piemonte (UFOs in Piedmont)

This extensive section meticulously documents UFO sightings in the Piedmont region of Italy, primarily from 1965 to 1967. Each entry includes:

• Case Number: A unique identifier (e.g., 65 CN 01).
• Date and Time: Precise date and time of the sighting.
• Location: Specific town or area within Piedmont.
• Observer(s): Details about who witnessed the event.
• Object Description: Shape, color, size, behavior, and any emitted lights or sounds.
• Sources: References to newspapers, magazines, or personal letters where the sighting was reported.

Some notable sightings include:

• Ormea (March 8, 1965): A luminous disk observed hovering motionless at high altitude.
• Caselle (April 9, 1965): An elongated object seen through a telescope, moving in a zig-zag pattern.
• Torino (May 6, 1965): A star-like object emitting intense glows and changing shape.
• Ovada (September 22, 1966): A distant luminous object, visible to the naked eye, remained in the sky for an hour, changing shape from triangular to round and then cylindrical.
• Agliego (Summer 1967): A cigar-shaped object with a colored halo moved horizontally, emitting a trail of light.
• Torino (July 1, 1967): A spherical light moved in a zig-zag pattern.
• Peveragno (April 23, 1966): A luminous disk was observed by students, followed by two aircraft, emitting intense yellow, pink, and green lights.
• Torino (August 18, 1966): A cylindrical fluorescent light moved across the sky.
• Torino (March 12, 1966): A whitish light of stellar dimensions moved in a zig-zag pattern.
• Torino (July 18, 1967): A formation of at least 35-40 objects, each with a trail of light, was observed moving rapidly. A larger object, described as the size of a game boccia, was also noted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed cataloging of UFO sightings, the analysis of their characteristics, and the investigation into the sources and reporting of these phenomena. The magazine also critically examines the commercial exploitation of UFO topics and the role of media in shaping public perception. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation and critical analysis, aiming to provide a comprehensive and objective overview of ufological events and discussions, while also acknowledging the sensationalist and commercial aspects that often surround the subject. The inclusion of obituaries suggests a long-standing engagement with the ufology community and its key figures.

Title: NUDI DRIZZONTI
Issue: Anno 1, nº 5
Date: October-November-December 1980
Type: Independent periodical of information and scientific/parascientific culture, produced by CIIR and collaborating groups.

This issue of NUDI DRIZZONTI, a 25-page cyclostyled publication with 13 pages dedicated to ufology, offers a critical perspective on the state of UFO research, particularly within Italy. The editorial commentary on the cover expresses disappointment with the lack of novelty in recent UFO reports, likening them to the 'usual banality' of Italian UFO bulletins. The issue features reviews of other UFO publications and delves into the complex topic of UFO abductions.

Article Reviews and Content

NUDI DRIZZONTI - Anno IX, nº 11 (November 1980)

This brief section reviews a meager 6-page ufological contribution by Ossola. The article, titled "The Unsolvable Ufology," reiterates Ossola's theories, including the 'Keelian ufology,' which he considers the most recent and relevant hypothesis. The review notes a letter on preferred UFO locations and a review of Sanderson's 'UFO Visitors from the Cosmos.' It also highlights a letter from Armando Porta criticizing previous contributions by Fiorino, questioning the ideas of a figure referred to as 'this new Messiah.'

NUDI DRIZZONTI - Anno IX, nº 12 (December 1980)

This review covers Ossola's 7-page contribution, focusing on his article "Ufology Quantistica: A New Method of Approaching the Phenomenon." Ossola attempts to draw parallels between Heisenberg's uncertainty principle and the indeterminacy of UFO sightings, particularly IR-3 cases. While acknowledging the influence of the witness, the review criticizes Ossola's reliance on quantum mechanics and the 'tertium non datur' concept to explain the 'non-scientifically studiable' aspects of the phenomenon. The reviewer suggests a more scientific approach is needed before venturing into 'adventurous' theories. The ufology section also includes a piece on hypotheses and a letter discussing UFO hostility.

IL GIORNALE DEI Misteri - nº 115 (November 1980)

This review finds little of substance in the 10 ufological pages of this issue. It mentions a few Ligurian cases and organizational correspondence. A notable contribution is a series of proposals for the structure of 'research groups' by Enza Massa of SUF, which are praised for their common sense, though the reviewer disagrees with the suggestion of 'generic and preferably indirect criticisms.'

IL GIORNALE DEI Misteri - nº 116 (December 1980)

The review bypasses articles on aircraft and meteors by Sergio Conti and mentions Coppetti's repetitive work. It highlights the continuation of the "Foreign Ufological Newsletter" featuring Argentinian newspaper clippings. The main focus is a critical letter from Marco Mucci to the director, complaining about the ufology section's content, calling for more ideas and less case-based reporting, and criticizing 'incompetent' articles. The editor's response, according to the review, misses the point, suggesting a 'stagnation' in Italian ufology and attributing it to media discredit, which the reviewer finds unfounded.

SKY WATCH - NOTIZIARIO INTERNO DI UFOLOGIA E MATERIE CONNESSE (Anno 3, n.4)

This internal bulletin from the CUN Genova section is noted for a decline in quality compared to previous issues. Out of 20 pages, only one is dedicated to local cases, eight discuss a confrontation between Zanfretta and Bender (of MIB fame), five cover 'Explorer in Paradise' from Montalcino, and five are on astronomy.

PHOENOMENALIA (Sede CUN di Parma)

This 25-page cyclostyled bulletin from CUN Parma is mentioned, with the reviewer noting that only the title suggests something 'phenomenal.' It contains 'considerations on the hypothesis of extraterrestrial life,' 'The Mysteries of Nazca,' 'The Philadelphia Experiment,' and the 'Hill case,' along with a local case study. The reviewer expresses a desire for more from CUN.

"Kidnapped by an Archetype?" by Hilary Evans

This lengthy article by Hilary Evans explores the phenomenon of UFO abductions. Evans begins by acknowledging the reality of abduction reports, which were once confined to fiction. He outlines the common narrative structure of abductions: a strange light, encountering strange beings, being taken aboard a craft, undergoing a physical examination, and having memories suppressed.

Evans then poses the question of how Charles Fort would approach this phenomenon. He describes Fort's belief in explanations and his monumental work on anomalies. Evans suggests that Fort would have been intrigued by the paradoxes inherent in abduction reports, believing that reducing a problem to a paradox gets to its core. He posits that the outrageous nature of abduction reports might be the key to understanding their true nature.

The Problem of Abduction

Evans discusses the difficulty in dismissing abduction reports, noting the thousands of well-presented accounts from seemingly sane individuals. He argues that these reports describe physical objects and experiences that defy current scientific understanding, citing their ability to change shape, appear to different witnesses, and their occupants' unusual characteristics. He contrasts this with known reality, suggesting UFOs represent something fundamentally different.

The Significance of Myth

Evans examines the connection between UFO reports and mythology. He critiques the idea, proposed by Paul Misraki and amplified by Von Däniken, that myths are simply historical accounts of real events obscured by time. Evans argues that while UFO encounters may have occurred throughout history, there's no evidence of a continuous tradition of such reports, particularly during periods like Shakespeare's or the Victorian era. He suggests that myths are more likely to represent what people *wanted* to tell and hear, filling the gaps in a reality that is often 'sloppy and unsatisfying.' Myths impose a schema on reality, fulfilling a fundamental human instinct.

Four Types of Reports

Evans categorizes reports of encounters with non-human entities into four types:
1. Real accounts: Descriptions from individuals who claim to have genuinely encountered alien entities.
2. Fantastic stories: Primarily from the pre-ufological period (1920s-1930s).
3. Miti: Often non-specific accounts that describe events with notable similarities to modern reports.
4. Experimentally produced accounts: Subjects without a UFO background describing abductions under hypnosis or drugs.

Evans notes surprising correlations between these categories, citing examples from early science fiction writers whose imagined scenarios closely resemble 1970s abduction reports. He also points to Jacques Vallée's work comparing UFO reports with mythology, highlighting parallels such as the insertion of a needle into the navel in Betty Hill's case and similar depictions in 15th-century texts.

The Significance of Myth (Continued)

Evans discusses experiments involving hypnotic regression, such as those conducted by Alvin Lawson. He notes that subjects in these experiments, even those with minimal prior UFO knowledge, described experiences with terms virtually indistinguishable from those of alleged abductees. He presents an example where subjects under hypnosis, one described as a 'real' abductee, and another under drug influence, all described similar tubular environments, suggesting a shared underlying psychological framework.

Evans concludes that these correlations suggest either a common source or a shared substratum of imagery available to the human subconscious. He dismisses the idea of a linear development from myth to science fiction to alleged real events as absurd, questioning how ancient peasants could access modern science fiction.

"Where Does Reality Begin and End?"

Evans argues that there is a real basis for some UFO reports, representing a genuine phenomenon beyond current scientific classification. He cites thousands of well-presented accounts from rational individuals. However, he stresses that the reality of UFOs is different from anything previously experienced by humanity, with characteristics that defy logic. He then addresses the paradox of abduction cases: if some UFO reports are real, then abduction reports, which share striking parallels with fictional accounts, must also be explained. He rejects the idea that they derive from each other and seeks an alternative explanation.

Paradox to the Rescue

Evans introduces the complication that many sightings, even detailed ones, are identified as IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) rather than UFOs. He cites Michel Monnerie and Allan Hendry, who have shown that many sightings refer to conventional objects. Evans suggests that when people see something 'unclassifiable,' their subconscious may create a 'waking dream,' projecting their expectations, desires, or fears onto the phenomenon. This implies that individuals can transform reality into fantasy, whether they are seeing IFOs or UFOs.

Conclusions

Evans concludes that it is justifiable to believe that many individuals carry within their subconscious the necessary elements to construct an abduction narrative. The form and circumstances may vary, but the underlying material can be traced to past myths (fate, angels, demons), science fiction stories, or, under hypnosis or drugs, to imaginary encounters with extraterrestrials. He suggests that when confronted with a real situation, individuals may project their personal concerns onto the phenomenon, adapting it to the cultural context of their time, whether it be the Virgin Mary, flaming crosses, or extraterrestrial humanoids. He notes that the preoccupation with lights and doors in abduction reports is a common feature, suggesting that psychoanalysis might offer insights into this aspect. Regardless of whether abduction stories have a factual basis, their typical characteristics derive from a widely diffused scenario deeply embedded in the collective subconscious.

In Memoriam: Alberto Perego

This section commemorates the passing of Carlo Alberto Perego, described as the 'father of Italian ufology,' who died in Rome on April 22, 1981. Perego, a former Italian Consul General, became involved in ufology after witnessing a spectacular UFO sighting in Rome in 1954. His interpretation of UFO phenomena was that they were extraterrestrial in origin, with benevolent intentions, and possessed a 'political' significance, always coinciding with political events and serving as a warning to authorities regarding nuclear adventures. Perego dedicated himself to gaining official recognition for his 'exact explanation' of flying saucers.

His public activities included writing letters to political and military figures, though he often faced skepticism and was reportedly the victim of hoaxes. His first major public sortie was an interview in 'L'europeo' in 1957, followed by the publication of "Svelato il mistero dei dischi volanti - Rapporto sull'aviazione elettromagnetica" in 1957, which was considered his first 'book.' Despite setbacks, Perego founded the C.I.S.A.E.R. (Centro Italiano Studi Aviazione Elettromagnetica - Rome) in 1957, which became the primary ufological organization in Italy. He also organized the Italian leg of George Adamski's world tour in 1959.

In 1963, Perego published "L'aviazione di altri pianeti opera tra noi - Rapporto agli italiani (1943-1963)," a 560-page volume that became known as the 'Bible' of Italian ufology. The decline of C.I.S.A.E.R. is attributed to Perego's departure to Belo Horizonte as Italian Consul, though deeper causes are suggested. Perego's later work included the book "Gli extraterrestri sono tornati - Il mistero dell'Apollo 13" (1970), updating his theories. He then withdrew from the scene, reportedly embittered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently critiques the state of Italian ufology, lamenting a lack of originality and scientific rigor. There is a strong focus on the psychological and mythological aspects of UFO experiences, particularly abductions, questioning the factual basis of many reports while acknowledging a potential underlying reality. The magazine champions a more critical and scientific approach to the phenomenon, contrasting it with what it perceives as sensationalism and unsubstantiated theories. The tribute to Carlo Alberto Perego highlights a historical perspective on Italian ufology, acknowledging his foundational role despite differing interpretations of his work.

This issue of 'NOTIZIARIO' (Volume II, Issue 11, April 1981) is primarily dedicated to an in-depth analysis of the legacy and influence of Alberto Perego on Italian ufology, alongside an exploration of the UFO phenomenon as a modern myth. The publication, produced by OSCUN, features contributions from various ufologists and researchers, including Paolo Fiorino and physicist Paul Davies.

The Legacy of Alberto Perego

The issue begins by reflecting on the career and impact of Alberto Perego, a figure who, despite facing indifference and political 'silencing,' significantly shaped the course of Italian ufology. His introduction of the 'Adamskian' model of the angelic, salvific extraterrestrial, and the association of flying saucers with advanced beings, became widespread through his articles, interviews, and conferences. This influence is noted in major media investigations and the proliferation of contactee groups in Italy during the 1950s and 1960s. The text suggests that without Perego, the phenomenon of Eugenio Siragusa, a prominent contactee, might not have gained such traction. The article also points out that the dissatisfaction of more 'rational' elements within Perego's organization, C.I.S.A.E.R., led to the formation of groups like the Centro Studi Clipeologici and later the C.U.N., which sought to counter the more extreme contactee claims.

Perego's approach is characterized by a 'political' agenda, a focus on 'political coincidences' rather than detailed case analysis, and an emphasis on divulgation. This modus operandi is criticized for its lack of rigorous research and its tendency to prioritize sensationalism over factual investigation. The article argues that this approach, while perhaps well-intentioned, contributed to a less scientific and more speculative direction in Italian ufology.

The UFO as a Modern Myth

Paolo Fiorino's article, 'No, io non ci sto!', offers a more critical and somewhat skeptical perspective on the UFO phenomenon, framing it as a 'myth.' Fiorino questions the constant need to find UFOs in every unexplained event, noting how easily past observations were misidentified as UFOs. He critiques the tendency within ufology to seek out 'alien' occupants and paranormal explanations, often mixing parapsychology, spiritualism, and psychoanalysis into case reports. Fiorino highlights the 'fauna' of Italian ufologists, suggesting a blend of genuine interest and sensationalism.

He posits that the UFO phenomenon is structurally similar to myths, possibly manipulated by an unknown 'something' or 'someone.' The myth, he explains, is a cultural product that evolves with societal changes, reflecting historical situations through symbolic narratives. The UFO myth, in this context, is seen as a contemporary manifestation that mirrors the contradictions and uncertainties of modern Western civilization. It exhibits a technological aspect while also incorporating mystical and paranormal elements, akin to ancient myths.

Fiorino draws a parallel between Greek mythology, where gods interacted with humans, and the UFO phenomenon, where 'beings' in advanced machines interact with people. He suggests that the UFO phenomenon might be the current phase in the evolution of a guiding myth that humanity has developed over time, adapting to historical, political, social, and religious contingencies. He cites various authors who have explored this idea, including Méheust, Vallée, Keel, and Jung.

Scientific Perspectives and Advice

The issue includes a section offering advice to readers, referencing an article by Paul Davies, Professor of Theoretical Physics at the University of Newcastle. Davies advocates for studying ufology as a typical manifestation of the space age and deep psychological traditions. He argues that UFO phenomena have always captured human imagination, surrounded by myths that change with prevailing social structures. According to Davies, ufological science is the science of human development, encompassing what Alvin Tofler called the 'choo da futuro' (the future shock). He believes UFOs are an inevitable product of a society where ancient beliefs resurface and must reconcile with scientific progress and rational understanding of the cosmos. Davies stresses the need for careful and meticulous study, rather than derision.

The article concludes by urging ufologists to avoid perpetuating the myth and to strive for a more grounded approach. It acknowledges the difficulty of demythologizing the phenomenon while simultaneously studying it.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of ufology's history and methodology, particularly the legacy of Alberto Perego and the 'contactee' movement. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and the construction of myths or speculative narratives. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, advocating for scientific rigor, detailed case analysis, and a critical approach to popular beliefs surrounding UFOs. The issue encourages a move away from sensationalism and towards a more nuanced understanding of the phenomenon, acknowledging its cultural and psychological dimensions while not dismissing the possibility of unexplained events.