UFOlogia Supplemento a Clypeus - 1980 No 9

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGIA
Issue: SUPPLEMENTO A CLYPEUS N° 63
Date: May-June 1980
Type: Magazine Supplement

This issue of UFOLOGIA, a supplement to CLYPEUS, documents the proceedings of the "First Interregional Meeting on Ufological Phenomenology" held in Milan on June 15, 1980. The publication is edited by Gian Paolo Grassino and Edoardo Russo, with Gianni V. Settimo as the responsible director and publisher. The magazine is described as a bimonthly publication for critical and informational ufological content, sent free to members of the Gruppo Clypeus.

Meeting on Ufological Phenomenology

The lead article, "Come e perché di un'iniziativa" (How and Why of an Initiative), details the organization and purpose of the Milan meeting. It was jointly organized by the Provincial Seats of Milan and Turin of the National Ufological Center (CUN) but was open to all interested groups and researchers from Northern Italy. The meeting aimed to be different from typical ufological congresses by focusing on methodological aspects and facilitating in-depth discussions among "colleagues." The idea originated from a proposal by CNIFAA (Comitato Nazionale Indipendente per lo studio dei Fenomeni Aerei Anomali) in Bologna, though an initial attempt to organize a similar event was abandoned due to a lack of responses. The Milan meeting was conceived as a pilot experiment by enthusiasts from the CUN nuclei in Turin and Milan, limited geographically for logistical reasons. The organization was handled by Alberto Chiarenzi, Riccardo Germinario, and Massimo Pittella. Over 300 invitations were sent, and approximately sixty people attended, indicating a potential interest for future events, possibly in Bologna and Central Italy.

A significant aspect highlighted is that this issue publishes the full proceedings (reports and debates) of the meeting, a novelty in Italy. The decision to publish it as a special issue of UFOLOGIA was due to the non-group, non-editorial nature of the initiative and UFOLOGIA's status as an independent Italian publication.

Articles and Content

"L'IMPORTANZA DELL' INDAGINE NEL CAMPO DELLA RICERCA UFOLOGICA" by Edoardo Russo

This article serves as an introduction to a manual on investigation methodology for ufology. Russo explains that he was tasked by the C.U.N. Directive Council to compile such a manual, drawing from existing international methodologies. The work involved extensive research, referencing manuals from APRO, NICAP, LUFON, BUFORA, SOBEPS, and various contemporary texts. The author notes that while the text may not be exhaustive, it represents a significant innovation for Italian ufology, which he claims lacks systematic methodological criteria.

The article emphasizes that ufological investigation is fundamental and should not be taken for granted. It distinguishes between the study of "UFOs" and the study of "UFO reports." The core of ufological research, according to Russo, is not the UFO itself but the testimony of the sighting (the UFO report). He outlines the phases of a ufological case: 1) The presence of the stimulus and the sighting (UFO sighting), 2) The witness's account (UFO account), and 3) The report (UFO report). He stresses that the researcher deals with accounts and reports, not the physical object.

Russo discusses the complexities of the witness's experience, including misinterpretations of known objects or phenomena (I.F.O. - Identified Flying Object) and the influence of psychological factors on perception. He also highlights the challenges in the "UFO account" phase, such as the problem of language in verbalizing memories and the unconscious re-elaboration of the experience by the witness over time. The "UFO report" phase involves the collection and transcription of the witness's account, which can be influenced by various factors and the reporter's own biases.

"GRAFOLOGIA - una scienza nuova per un nuovo tipo di approccio interdisciplinare al fenomeno UFO" by Almerindo Duranti

This article explores the potential of graphology (the study of handwriting) as a new scientific tool for an interdisciplinary approach to the UFO phenomenon. It suggests that analyzing the handwriting of witnesses or researchers could provide insights into their psychological states, motivations, and potential biases.

"SULLA CODIFICA MECCANOGRAFICA" by Massimo Pittella

Pittella discusses the mechanographical codification of sighting testimonies. This section likely addresses the utility and practicalities of creating a mechanized archive for UFO sighting data, suggesting a systematic approach to organizing and analyzing collected information.

"PERCHE' LA STATISTICA" by Roberto Farabone

Farabone argues for the importance of statistics in ufological research. The article likely explains why statistical analysis is crucial for understanding patterns, probabilities, and the significance of UFO sightings and related data.

"UFO E FOLKLORE" by Dario Spada

Spada explores the relationship between UFO phenomena and folklore. This piece likely investigates whether UFO sightings can be explained as modern manifestations of ancient myths, legends, or folklore, or if there is a distinct connection between the two.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine positions itself as a bimonthly publication dedicated to critical and informational ufology, aiming for a non-speculative approach. The editorial content, particularly the introductory articles, emphasizes the need for rigorous, scientific methodology in ufological research. There is a strong focus on the importance of accurate data collection, analysis, and the critical evaluation of witness testimonies. The publication champions an independent stance, not tied to specific groups or "sigle" (labels).

The recurring themes include the development of systematic investigative methods, the epistemological challenges in studying the UFO phenomenon, the role of statistics and graphology, and the potential connections between UFOs and folklore. The issue underscores the commitment to providing a platform for serious research and discussion within the ufological community.

This issue of the magazine focuses on the complexities and methodologies of UFO investigation, with a particular emphasis on the application of graphology as a scientific tool.

The Complexity of UFO Investigation

The introductory sections highlight that UFO investigation is not a casual pastime but an extremely complex and delicate task. It requires more than just collecting anecdotal evidence; it demands rigorous methodological approaches. The analysis of reports is complicated by the subjective nature of witness testimony and the potential for investigator bias. The text emphasizes the need for investigators to be well-prepared, to avoid influencing witnesses, and to meticulously gather all relevant data to identify and eliminate spurious factors. This meticulous approach is crucial for producing accurate and objective reports.

The Need for Prepared Investigators

A significant portion of the text addresses the necessity of having well-trained and prepared investigators. It points out that a large majority of UFO reports are of little use for serious research due to a lack of detailed information or contamination by extraneous factors. Therefore, the ideal investigator is someone who has assimilated the principles of UFO research and can detect and mitigate these spurious elements. This preparation is vital for the subsequent analysis of the collected data.

Methodological Criteria for Investigators

The magazine stresses the importance of precise methodological criteria for data collection. Over the years, a clearer understanding of UFO phenomena and the necessary research methodologies has emerged from the field experience of numerous investigators. "Investigator manuals" have been developed, consolidating various techniques and advice. The document aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these approaches, emphasizing that investigators must deeply assimilate and master them.

The Role of the Investigator

The work of a UFO investigator is described as atypical, requiring a blend of skills similar to those of a journalist, psychologist, and police officer. Key qualities include fluency in expression, attention to detail, synthesis, critical thinking, and extensive UFO documentation. However, true investigative capability is gained only through experience, which guides the choice of appropriate techniques for each situation.

Challenges and Criticisms within Ufology

The text touches upon the difficulties encountered in the field, including the reluctance of many "ufologists" to adopt rigorous methodological procedures, often finding them too elaborate or "boring." This has contributed to the generally disappointing state of knowledge acquired over decades of research worldwide. The issue also implicitly critiques the tendency for some to treat ufology as a mere hobby or "entertainment," suggesting that the resolution of the mystery might diminish the enjoyment for some.

Specific Case and Discussion

A discussion segment features a debate between R. Farabone and the Relatore (Russo) regarding the definition of "UFO" as an "unidentified stimulus." Farabone argues that reports are often based on what the witness *judges* as unidentified, potentially including known objects like Venus. He stresses the importance of critically analyzing reports to distinguish between actual UFOs and IFOs (Identified Flying Objects). The Relatore acknowledges this point, noting that the concept was presented as a postulate.

Another point raised is the importance of studying the "nothingness" that UFOs represent, as it can reveal much about people's perceptions and beliefs.

Scientific vs. Popular Ufology

There's a critique of the current state of ufology, with C. Morari questioning the existence of "scientific ufology" in Italy. He argues that while many claim to be scientific ufologists, they lack the broad knowledge base required for genuine scientific inquiry. He also points out that Italian publishers are more interested in sensationalist stories that sell than in scientifically rigorous research.

The CNIFAA and Publishing

The CNIFAA (Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici) is mentioned for its efforts to publish in English, making serious UFO literature accessible internationally. However, it's noted that many Italian ufologists do not read English. The CNIFAA's initiative to publish a book by Ballester Olmos is discussed, highlighting the challenges of finding an Italian publisher willing to take on serious, non-sensationalist UFO research.

Grafologia: A New Approach to UFO Phenomena

The latter part of the magazine introduces "Grafologia" (Graphology) as a new scientific discipline for an interdisciplinary approach to UFO phenomena. Almerindo Duranti explains that graphology, the study of handwriting, is a scientific discipline within psychology that can reveal innate personality traits, temperament, character, and intelligence by analyzing the automatic graphic gesture.

The Neurophysiological Basis of Graphology

Duranti explains that the graphic gesture involves complex motor coordination, influenced by the brain's motor cortex, thalamus, basal ganglia, cerebellum, and brainstem. The impulse originates in the cortex and is executed through delicate movements of the fingers, wrist, forearm, arm, and shoulder. Sensory feedback ensures spatial awareness and concentration. The graphic language is seen as a means of communication and self-expression, reflecting the individual's inner world and personality.

Personality Analysis through Graphology

Drawing on Jungian psychology and Eysenck's bi-dimensional personality theory (Stable-Instable and Introvert-Extrovert), graphology can classify individuals into personality types. The text details how handwriting pressure, among other factors, can indicate an individual's energy levels, vitality, and emotional state. Heavy pressure might suggest a need to assert strength, sometimes aggressively, while light pressure indicates a more delicate nature that avoids conflict. Non-uniform pressure can reveal internal conflicts and channeled energy.

A Case Study: Handwriting Analysis

The issue includes an analysis of a handwritten letter from a witness who reported an encounter with a presumed extraterrestrial. The graphological analysis suggests the writer has a "spirit-fantastic" imbalance, difficulty with physical activity, is highly cerebral, sensitive to negative stimuli, has low vital energy, lacks self-confidence, and struggles with decision-making and facing difficult situations. This profile leads to a classification as "INTROVERSE-INSTABILI" (Introverted-Unstable) according to Eysenck's model.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous methodology required for credible UFO investigation, the challenges posed by subjective evidence, and the critical need for well-trained investigators. There's a strong emphasis on moving beyond anecdotal accounts towards a more scientific and analytical approach. The introduction of graphology as a tool for understanding witness psychology signifies an effort to integrate different scientific disciplines into the study of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a more serious, scientific, and methodologically sound approach to ufology, while acknowledging the difficulties in achieving this within the current Italian publishing and research landscape.

This issue of UFO Magazine, identified as issue number 26, focuses on the integration of graphology and mechanized codification for the analysis and archiving of UFO sighting testimonies. The content explores how psychological insights derived from handwriting analysis can enhance the understanding of witnesses, and how a systematic, mechanized approach to data management can lead to more rigorous and efficient ufological research.

Graphology and Witness Analysis

The issue begins by discussing the Jungian hypothesis that human personality components exist in pairs, and how graphology can reveal these through the writer's pressure and style. Neurophysiological confirmations are also mentioned, linking handwriting pressure to nerve cell activity. The analysis suggests that while some elements in a letter might appear typical of ufological concerns, their objective value for verification is often null, rendering such letters easily dismissible by the press and skeptics. However, the article posits that even seemingly simple letters can be important from a psychological perspective, especially when considering the implications of ufology. It highlights C.G. Jung's interest in studying such phenomena to better understand the psychological aspects of ufology.

The text then delves into a specific analysis of a letter writer, describing them as an introvert who tends to escape reality into spirituality and fantasy, possessing intense cerebral activity. The writer's difficulties in expressing themselves and communicating are noted, with the Alfa Romeo 1300 serving as a stimulus for a modified persona, such as a "blond extraterrestrial with a telepathic beard." The analysis suggests that the writer's insecurity and inability to assert themselves strongly influence their narrative. The conclusion drawn is that the subject may have experienced a form of compensation to rebalance their psychological state, with an "extraterrestrial" acting as a protagonist, an individual not belonging to our world with whom they have adaptive problems.

A debate section follows, featuring A. Rocchi questioning the extent to which such analysis can establish the truthfulness of a witness's account. The 'Relatore' (Speaker) suggests that a psychologist's involvement could provide deeper insights, but even then, distinguishing between a mythomaniac and a genuine witness remains challenging. The speaker emphasizes that graphology is unique in touching upon all levels of neurophysiological structure and can provide valuable starting points for psychologists. They also discuss the potential of handwriting analysis to reveal important temperament traits of individuals who report UFO sightings.

Mechanized Codification and Archiving

The main article, authored by Massimo Pittella, introduces the concept of mechanized codification for UFO sighting testimonies and the utility and practical possibilities of setting up a mechanized archive. Pittella reassures the audience about the brevity of his presentation, acknowledging that the topic might be tedious for some. He mentions that the National Ufological Center (Centro Ufologico Nazionale) is likely already familiar with codification, but for external members, he explains the recent completion of a manual for mechanized codification of sighting testimonies, developed in collaboration with C.N.I.F.A.A. and C.U.F.O.C. of Euratom.

This manual allows for the translation of testimony data into "codes" that can be stored in electronic calculators for various services. The article notes that this is not entirely new, referencing an earlier Italian codification by Pier Luigi Sani for a 1954 national case analysis, which was deemed deficient. Pittella highlights international precedents, including the early work of B.U.F.O.R.A., the more complex UFOCAT by Saunders (International U.R.D. Foundation), and the French G.E.P.A.N. system. He points out that Jacques Vallée discussed mechanized codification in Flying Saucer Review as early as 1960, while serious discussion in Italy is only beginning now.

The article stresses the importance of ensuring the real utility of a mechanized archive, which would store the entire casuistry of collected sighting testimonies. The mechanized archive is presented as having two fundamental advantages: statistical analysis and data management.

Statistical Analysis

Computers can perform complex statistical calculations in minimal time, which is crucial for analyzing large samples of data needed for reliable results in ufology. The speaker criticizes the common error of equating statistical analysis solely with descriptive statistics (modes, averages, variability), overlooking the more advanced inferential statistics that can lead to mathematical models of phenomena. This misunderstanding is attributed to the fact that most Italian studies, often labeled as statistical, have been limited to descriptive analysis, such as the 1954 national casuistry.

International examples of advanced statistical analysis are cited, including work by G.E.P.A.N., the Soviet Academy of Sciences, U.R.D. Foundation, and the Spanish C.E.I. (which publishes Stendek).

Archive Management

Even without interest in statistical analysis, mechanized procedures offer significant advantages for archive management. These include:

• Data Transmission: Information stored in the archive can be rapidly transmitted in various forms, such as memory units (disks, tapes) or printed reports. This process requires simple programming and can be done in seconds.
• Specific Information Retrieval: The archive allows for quick access to specific information, such as cases from a particular region, date, or time period, or detailed descriptions of encounters, electromagnetic effects, or psychological impacts. This is a vast improvement over manual searches of large document collections.

The mechanized archive is presented as a flexible and versatile tool, serving as a support for various research areas, including psychological studies, witness analysis, phenomenon characteristics, and time-series analysis. It transforms the archive from a mere repository of material into an active service and a powerful resource for researchers.

However, the article emphasizes that before utilizing these services, the archive must be fully set up, which requires the complete collection of data to be memorized.

Methodology and Codification

The issue then details the methodology and codification process. The manual for the methodology will be published by the Turin branch. To make the methodology operational, it needs to be applied with rigor and competence to ensure correct data collection. This will result in homogeneous data, minimizing the influence of individual investigators and allowing for more rigorous statistical research.

For operationalizing the codification, codification modules are required. These modules have been developed and include modifications based on feedback. Due to a lack of funding from the C.U.N. Directorate, direct provision of updated manuals and free modules is not possible. However, users can update their old manuals with corrections listed in "La Voce," reproduce the modules themselves, or order them from the Milan branch.

Mechanized Archive Requirements

To make the mechanized archive operational, four points need to be met:

1. Availability of a computer: A mini-processor is available and sufficient for the needs.
2. Availability of operators: Operators are available, with the Milan provincial branch having decided to dedicate itself to computer-assisted analysis of UFO casuistry.
3. Systematic Codification: This depends on everyone's participation. By using the codification module from now on for every new sighting testimony collected, a large volume of data will accumulate quickly.
4. Centralization of Modules: Modules must be centralized for computer storage. Users are advised to use the provided address in Via Vignola 3, or the postal box 11122 Milano-Isola, for this purpose.

A flowchart illustrates the new process: information is collected by investigators, resulting in two types of documents: an investigation report and codification modules. The reports go to the Documentation Bank, and the modules go to the mechanized archive. Both structures then serve the users.

Discussion and Future Steps

The article acknowledges that implementing a new system will initially present challenges but expects significant benefits once the codification becomes standard practice. The authors express readiness to clarify any doubts or problems related to codification.

In the "dibattito" (debate) section, A. Lazzaro asks if the codification modules are only for future cases or also for past ones. The Relatore confirms that codifying past cases is highly useful, especially if they were properly investigated. C. Morari raises concerns about the number of people who can be relied upon for this project, noting the need for adequate training and resources, comparing it to having a Ferrari without knowing how to drive.

The Relatore expresses pessimism about the availability of motivated individuals but notes that many CUN branches are enthusiastic about the project and willing to participate in study seminars. The article reassures that no specific preparation is needed to use the codification module; it's a mechanical process of associating letters or numbers with information. Anyone with an investigation report and a codification module can perform the task.

A. Rocchi, an analyst programmer, clarifies that mechanized codification is not transcendental but simply a way to make data readable by computers. He emphasizes that the key is to assign a number to each characteristic.

A. Chiumento views the mechanization methodology as a positive stimulus for better investigation, stressing the importance of serious and competent investigators. He advocates for thorough verification of individuals and their methods. He supports the codification modules as a means to encourage more appropriate and in-depth investigations, urging investigators to be patient and avoid influencing the genuine report with their own actions.

E. Russo concludes by stating the necessity of having the best people involved, as errors in the initial stages can compromise the entire process.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the professionalization of ufological research through systematic data collection, analysis, and archiving. The magazine advocates for the adoption of new methodologies, particularly mechanized codification and statistical analysis, to move beyond anecdotal evidence and subjective interpretations. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of psychological insights, derived from methods like graphology, to understand the witnesses themselves. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting a more scientific and organized approach to UFO studies, encouraging collaboration and the use of technology to manage and analyze the growing body of evidence.

This issue of the magazine features articles and a debate centered around the application of scientific methodologies, particularly statistics, to the study of ufology, and explores potential connections between ufology and folklore.

Articles and Discussions

"PERCHÉ LA STATISTICA? il senso della sua applicazione in campo ufologico" by ROBERTO FARABONE

This article addresses criticisms regarding the use of mechanical data coding and statistical analysis in ufology. Farabone argues that to understand phenomena like UFOs, a descriptive model is needed, which can be verified through experiences or observations. He emphasizes the importance of data availability and information. When direct action on the phenomenon is not possible, indirect inference through analogy and successive observations becomes key. The article uses the example of measuring a suitcase to illustrate the inherent variability in measurements and the need for statistical methods to determine a reliable value. It highlights that even with concrete measurements, results may not be identical, and statistical analysis helps in understanding the true value and reliability of a measurement.

Farabone acknowledges the challenges in ufology, such as the potential for bias in data collection and reporting. He suggests that it is better to discard dubious cases than to include them in analysis, as this can lead to a more accurate understanding of the phenomenon. The article also touches upon the idea of grouping testimonies based on statistical filters to identify coherent patterns, though this research is currently stalled.

When analyzing collected data, two possible approaches are presented: examining each case individually to extract maximum information, or using statistical analysis to identify general behaviors and patterns, especially when dealing with a large number of cases. The article posits that statistical analysis is essential because it allows for the identification of analogies between cases, which might not be apparent through simple observation.

It draws a parallel with lottery numbers, where individual numbers might appear to be 'delayed,' but statistically, all numbers are equiprobable over the long term. Similarly, UFO 'flaps' might be statistical fluctuations rather than genuine phenomena. Statistical methods can help determine if these 'flaps' are real or coincidental, and potentially link them to physical or sociological factors.

However, the article cautions that correlational methods only indicate an association between phenomena, not causation. While they can help discard unrelated factors, positive correlations do not necessarily imply dependence. Statistical methods can help determine the degree to which a phenomenon is dependent on other factors and extract the underlying characteristics of the phenomenon.

"UFO E FOLKLORE una teoria alternativa ?" by DARIO SPADA

This article proposes an alternative theory, suggesting that ufology, if not a science, should be approached with an open mind, considering its connection to folklore. Spada argues that despite decades of data collection, ufology has not yielded significant results, and a new methodology is needed. He aligns with the hypotheses of John Keel, viewing ufology as a modern iteration of ancient myths and legends, such as the 'little people,' gnomes, and fairies.

Spada suggests that the concept of parallel universes, the afterlife, and even biblical accounts of extraordinary phenomena share similarities with modern UFO reports. He proposes investigating the relationship between ufology and 'unusual folklore' – aspects of folklore that have connections to the unexplained. He criticizes the scientific community's skepticism towards ufology, stating that without concrete, laboratory-tested evidence of UFOs, scientists are unlikely to accept ufological hypotheses or suggestions.

He argues that the scientific approach, while valuable, has limitations when dealing with phenomena that defy current understanding. Spada believes that the 'little people' of folklore, described as small, humanoid beings with the ability to manipulate matter and guide humans, share characteristics with modern descriptions of 'aliens.' He notes that these beings were often associated with remote locations and water bodies, and could immobilize humans, drawing parallels to medieval figures like vampires.

Spada advocates for an open-minded approach, free from 'blinders,' to consider all aspects of ufology, from 'contactism' to statistical analysis. He criticizes the tendency to exclude data that doesn't fit preconceived scientific notions. He emphasizes that the 'little people' are not confined to Northern European folklore but are present in cultures worldwide, including Africa and Australia, where they are described as flying beings, often around one meter in height, with the ability to manipulate matter and guide humans.

Debate

The debate section features contributions from G.P. GRASSINO, G.NERI, and the RELATORE (presumably Roberto Farabone or another panelist).

• G.P. GRASSINO raises concerns about the representativeness of the data used for statistical analysis, questioning if the cases studied are truly representative of the phenomenon or if they are influenced by logical factors.
• RELATORE acknowledges this as a significant issue, stating that the current effort in Milan is a preliminary approach to test statistical procedures and programs. The results will be considered 'tests' rather than definitive conclusions, as a truly significant sample is needed for reliable statistical analysis.
• G.NERI questions the definition of statistics in ufology, asking if simply cataloging frequent colors or shapes of UFOs constitutes statistical analysis and seeking more original insights.
• RELATORE suggests that if the phenomenon is found not to be unknown but rather a result of interactions between known physical characteristics and mass agitation, a response could be found. They also propose exploring interactions of physical reality that produce the phenomenon.
• G.NERI asks if exploring interactions of physical reality that produce the phenomenon is relevant.
• RELATORE states that they don't know the outcome a priori but can try to see what happens.
• G.P. GRASSINO asks if it would be interesting to analyze not only investigated cases but also uninvestigated ones.
• RELATORE agrees that it's important, as finding perfect coincidences between investigated and uninvestigated cases would itself be a type of response.
• G.NERI brings up an observation by Renato Fedele that the absence of testimonies in a certain area doesn't mean the phenomenon didn't occur.
• RELATORE responds that it depends on the starting point. They want to analyze a phenomenon where it has interacted with human senses, potentially with instrumental methods, though the latter is debatable.
• E. RUSSO refers to a note from his presentation, defining the first step as the 'existence' of UFOs, meaning the presence of an objective stimulus (artificial objects, natural phenomena, or unknown) in a specific place and time.
• G.NERI points out that only about 10% of people report what they witness, leaving 90% silent. If there's an occasional manifestation without witnesses, the complexity increases.
• E. RUSSO mentions a study in "UFO Phenomena" on the probability of an observer perceiving an object based on their visual field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous application of scientific methods, particularly statistics, to the study of unexplained phenomena like UFOs. There's a clear emphasis on the need for reliable data collection, validation, and analysis to move beyond anecdotal evidence and speculation. The magazine also explores alternative perspectives, such as the potential link between ufology and folklore, suggesting that modern UFO reports might be a contemporary expression of ancient myths and legends. The editorial stance appears to favor a more scientific and methodical approach, while remaining open to exploring unconventional theories and challenging established paradigms in ufology.

This issue of the magazine, identified by the page number '39', focuses on ufology, exploring its cultural, philosophical, and scientific dimensions. The cover headline, "UFO: operazione cavallo di Troia" (UFO: Trojan Horse Operation), hints at a connection between UFO phenomena and the concept of 'men in black' or even vampiric entities.

Cultural and Philosophical Perspectives on Ufology

The lead article suggests that ufology is interesting from cultural and secondary philosophical or spiritual viewpoints. It proposes examining ancient myths and Italian folklore, which are being eroded by modern progress. This folklore, particularly the 'piccolo popolo' (little people) or the 'insolito' (unusual), could offer insights. The author contrasts this with the tedious work of searching libraries for UFO news, suggesting that holidays in certain places might yield more interesting anecdotal evidence.

Statistical Approaches and Their Limitations

For enthusiasts of statistics, the article discusses the idea of collecting data on UFO reports and their correlation with paranormal phenomena, such as poltergeist activity, similar to work done by John Keel. While Keel's graphs suggest a correlation, the author questions the statistical methodology, pointing out that it's difficult to establish objective data like time or color, which are subjective. The article acknowledges that purely statistical research can be sterile and that there's a risk of inherent bias in ufological statistics.

Alternative Research Avenues

Beyond statistics, the magazine proposes direct research methods. It highlights traditional pagan and Christian dates that have historically been associated with significant, often feared, events. These include Calendimaggio (April 30-May 1), San Giovanni (June 24), and Ognissanti (November 1). These nights were believed to be when incomprehensible and magical things occurred, with Calendimaggio being particularly associated with the 'Sabba' and malevolent forces. The author wonders if these 'windows' for the paranormal or other worlds, as described by Keel, might open more easily during these specific times. The suggestion is to organize observation and experimentation evenings coinciding with these dates, acknowledging that results might be limited but worth exploring.

Debate on the Scientific Nature of Ufology

A debate section features R. Farabone and the 'Relatore' (Speaker), along with E. Russo. R. Farabone argues that whether a subject is scientific or parascience depends on the approach taken. He uses the example of a falling pencil: observing its consistent speed upon falling makes it a scientific observation. Similarly, he believes one can adopt a scientific attitude towards UFO phenomena.

The Relatore challenges this, stating that UFO phenomena are not scientifically explainable. R. Farabone counters by asking who has studied it, and the Relatore questions if it can be studied at all, given the data available.

R. Farabone then draws a parallel with Psychology, which became a science by focusing on observable behavior. He suggests that ufology could similarly focus on specific, observable aspects of the phenomenon, even with limited means. He argues that Psychology wasn't inherently a science but became one through the application of scientific methodologies.

E. Russo's Critique of Ufological Statistics

E. Russo expresses skepticism about ufology being scientifically explainable, calling it an 'inexplicable phenomenon' that will persist until people die. He recalls his own fervent support for John Keel in the past, even writing a preface to his book 'Creature dall'ignoto'. Russo critiques Keel's statistical correlations between poltergeist activity and UFO sightings, questioning the validity of classifying some sightings as UFOs in the first place. He points to historical examples like the 'clipei ardentes' (burning shields) and meteors from 1913 (Canada/Bermuda) and 1883 (Central US) that have been misinterpreted or misapplied in ufological contexts. Russo argues that Keel's correlations are not statistically significant, partly due to small sample sizes and data that doesn't align. He emphasizes that any research, including comparisons with folklore, requires a rigorous scientific analysis of data to ensure reliability.

The Scientific Method in Ufology

E. Russo further argues that a complete and serious statistical analysis in ufology has never been conducted. He defines science as a method of approaching reality based on specific criteria. He distinguishes between 'ufologia' (ufology), which follows the scientific method, and 'ufosofia' (ufosophy), a more subjective approach based on personal opinions, which he considers to have a different value and cannot be presented as an alternative to scientific ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently grapples with the definition and methodology of studying UFO phenomena. There's a clear tension between anecdotal evidence, folklore, and the rigorous application of the scientific method. The editorial stance appears to favor a more scientific and analytical approach, while acknowledging the cultural and historical significance of related phenomena. The magazine encourages readers to contribute data and consider new avenues of research, even if unconventional, while maintaining a critical perspective on the validity and interpretation of evidence. The recurring theme is the challenge of studying the inexplicable and the ongoing debate about whether ufology can truly be considered a science.