Common Ground - No 02 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: Common Ground
Issue: No. 2
Date: August 1981
Subtitle: Studies at the Fringe of Human Experience.

This issue of *Common Ground* delves into a variety of topics at the edge of human experience, with a particular focus on the challenges of evidence, objectivity, and interpretation in paranormal research and investigation.

The MILNE Position: A Retrospect of the Yorkshire Ripper Trial

This article by Michael Goss examines the complexities of assessing 'truth' and 'myth' in the paranormal field, using the trial of Peter William Sutcliffe (the 'Yorkshire Ripper') as a case study. Goss highlights the difficulty in judging subjective experiences, drawing a parallel between the legal system's need to test accuracy and the parapsychologist's challenge in validating abstract entities like psi events. The core of the discussion revolves around Sutcliffe's claims of hearing voices, and how both the defence (seeking evidence of schizophrenia) and the prosecution (seeking to prove calculation) attempted to interpret these claims. The article questions whether such subjective experiences, even if not objectively verifiable, should be dismissed, arguing that to do so would render much paranormal investigation pointless. It touches upon the 'balance of probabilities' as a legal tool and its potential limitations in assessing anomalous experiences.

Goss also reflects on the 'Phantom Hitch-Hiker' phenomenon, noting its status as a folk-motif and the difficulty in distinguishing genuine accounts from fictional ones. He recounts an experience where a witness's story, corroborated by others and a local journalist, seemed credible, yet acknowledged the challenge of presenting such findings in a formal setting like a court.

A Research Suggestion

This section proposes a research project focused on investigating Spiritualist Churches as environments where communication with 'extra-terrestrial intelligences' or 'spirit guides' is claimed. The author suggests that researchers should spend time observing and interacting with clairvoyants and psychics in these settings, comparing the phenomena to UFO contactee reports. The article notes that while Spiritualism often interprets these contacts as with spirits of the deceased, the phenomena can be open to various interpretations, with archetypal figures resembling UFO entities. The author advocates for a research approach that adapts methods to the context of faith and acknowledges the potential for pseudo-psychic experiences, suggesting it could be a basis for more 'outlandish' investigations. The project aims to prepare background material and invites interested individuals to participate, with a progress report to be published in a future issue.

Letters

This section features a lively exchange of views between Paul Devereux, Hilary Evans, and Jenny Randles, primarily concerning approaches to UFO research and the concept of 'objectivity'.

From Paul Devereux: Devereux expresses concern that the field might be swinging from one form of dogmatism (ETH) to another, criticizing what he perceives as a new trend among researchers like Randles and Evans. He questions the idea that non-witnesses are inherently more objective, arguing that subjectivity is a significant problem in UFO investigation regardless of whether one is a witness or not. Devereux believes that 'abductions', MIBs, and similar phenomena are part of the psychological ambience surrounding UFOs, but do not directly explain the core UFO event itself. He also critiques Hilary's investigation into the Dyfed wave, suggesting it focused on literary practices rather than the core phenomenon and that Hilary's approach polarized interpretations.

From Hilary Evans: Evans defends his approach, asserting that he looks to all available sources of information, including mythology, psychology, and sociology, to understand anomalous phenomena like UFOs. He criticizes Devereux for attempting to pigeonhole researchers and for his dismissive attitude towards his work on the Dyfed wave. Evans argues that his article was intended to highlight the pitfalls of investigation, not to provide a full report, and that dismissing his work as a 'non-event by a non-witness' is an absurd attack on all investigation.

From Jenny Randles: Randles expresses surprise at Devereux's conclusions, stating that she agrees with many of his points but finds his interpretation of her stance contradictory. She clarifies that she does not argue against a physical reality behind UFO enigmas but acknowledges both a physically real UFO enigma and a separate subjective phenomenon. Randles defends her approach to investigating the Sunderland family, arguing that stepping back from over-involvement is crucial for objectivity, contrasting it with researchers who become too close to witnesses. She suggests that Devereux read her upcoming book, 'Alien Contact', for a deeper understanding of her views on contactee phenomena.

GLOSSOLALIA and XENOLALIA: Pseudo-languages and Paranormal Speech

David Christie-Murray explores the phenomena of glossolalia (speaking in pseudo-languages) and xenolalia (paranormal speaking in genuine foreign languages). He notes that these are more common than generally realized and can occur under conditions of hysteria, trance, or ecstasy. The article outlines four main divisions for studying these phenomena: medical, anthropological, Christian, and psychological. Christie-Murray discusses examples from abnormal psychology, such as patients recovering forgotten languages, and anthropological cases where shamans speak in ancient or tribal tongues. He also examines the biblical sanction for speaking in tongues and its historical interpretation within Christianity, noting its resurgence in the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements. The author highlights the difficulty in verifying claims of xenolalia, particularly those involving foreigners being addressed in their own languages, and suggests that while glossolalia can be a form of worship, it is not necessarily a language.

ETHICS and INVESTIGATION: New Standards and Qualities in UFO Research

This article, by Jenny Randles, discusses the ethical considerations and evolving standards in UFO research. It emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach, acknowledging both the physical reality of UFOs and the subjective experiences associated with them. Randles advocates for a methodology that avoids over-involvement with witnesses to maintain objectivity and suggests that the 'New Iconoclasts' are not necessarily a positive force if they lead to a dismissal of phenomena without thorough investigation.

ASSAP: An Introduction to the Newly-Formed Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena

This brief section introduces ASSAP, a new organization dedicated to the scientific study of anomalous phenomena. It is presented as a development in the field, likely stemming from the need for more rigorous and systematic investigation.

SEMAPHORE WITHOUT FLAGS: A Critical Analysis of the UFO Control-System Theory

Kevin McClure critically analyzes the 'UFO Control-System Theory,' a concept that suggests UFOs are part of a system designed to control or influence human perception or behavior. The article likely delves into the theory's premises, evidence, and potential flaws, offering a counter-argument or alternative perspective.

THE ARK ON ARARAT: A Tale of Endeavour

This appears to be a narrative piece, possibly a historical or speculative account related to the Ark on Mount Ararat, suggesting a focus on exploration and discovery.

ABSTRACTS

This section provides brief summaries of various items, including "A RESOURCES FORUM" which discusses information storage, organization, and retrieval, with contributions from Paul Wilson, David Rees, and Bob Rickard.

CLOSING REMARKS

This section contains an editorial, likely summarizing the issue's themes or offering concluding thoughts from the editors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of *Common Ground* revolve around the critical examination of evidence, the challenges of maintaining objectivity in paranormal research, and the interpretation of anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a balanced and open-minded approach, encouraging rigorous investigation while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the complexities of human perception and experience. There is a clear emphasis on moving beyond simplistic explanations and dogmatic viewpoints, fostering a more nuanced understanding of topics at the fringe of human experience.

Title: Common Ground
Issue: Vol. 10, No. 2
Date: September 1981
Publisher: Common Ground
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1.00

This issue of Common Ground delves into the complexities of paranormal research, with a strong focus on UFO investigation ethics and the emerging 'Control-System Theory'. It also features a historical account of the search for Noah's Ark and reviews of various related publications.

Christian Tongues and Xenolalia

The issue opens with a discussion on 'Christian tongues' (glossolalia) and 'xenolalia', exploring their nature, sincerity, and potential for research. The author suggests experiments to investigate the phenomenon, particularly in relation to Spiritualist claims, proposing that recorded communications in unknown foreign languages could weaken conventional explanations.

Ethics and Investigation

Jenny Randles addresses the growing concern for ethical standards in UFO investigation. She highlights the need for fair treatment of witnesses who have often suffered psychologically and socially. The article details the formation of a code of practice by alliances like MAUFOG and NUFON, with the aim of establishing an 'Accreditation Board' for investigators. The code emphasizes responsibility to the witness, the public, and ufology itself, covering aspects like confidentiality, cooperation with authorities, and the free flow of information.

The 'Control-System Theory'

Kevin McClure's article, 'Semaphore without Flags', critically examines the 'Control-System Theory', a prominent idea in 'New Ufology'. He discusses how researchers like Jacques Vallée, John Keel, D. Scott Rogo, and Jerry Clark have proposed variations of this theory. McClure quotes passages from these authors, highlighting concepts such as 'mass manipulation', 'programmed' humans, and the idea that UFO phenomena might be terrestrial-based devices affecting human consciousness. He expresses skepticism about the theory's basis, suggesting it might be an attempt to rationalize complex phenomena rather than a scientifically supported explanation. McClure contrasts this with the 'continuity of phenomena' argument, which suggests a historical pattern of anomalous events.

He notes that while Vallée's early work was influential, his later book, 'Messengers of Deception', is seen as less convincing, a 'peculiar pot-pourri' supporting a more extreme version of the theory. McClure also touches upon the work of John Keel and D. Scott Rogo, acknowledging their contributions but maintaining a critical stance on the 'control-system' interpretation.

The Ark on Ararat

This section recounts the persistent and often perilous search for Noah's Ark on Mount Ararat, focusing on the efforts of John Libi. The article details Libi's eight attempts over fifteen years, highlighting numerous challenges including dangerous weather, physical injury, robbery, and even a fatality among his team. Despite his dedication, Libi never found definitive evidence of the Ark, though he did discover water-borne fossils. The narrative serves as an example of the dedication and perseverance involved in anomalous investigations.

Abstracts

The issue includes a comprehensive list of abstracts from various paranormal and UFO-related journals and publications. These include:

• BUFORA Journal: Discusses a debate on UFO data versus satellite re-entry.
• Christian Parapsychologist: Features a report on a cleric communicating with an entity claiming to be St. Stephen.
• Flying Saucer Review: Covers international UFO cases, including reports from Poland, Russia, and a reappraisal of the Steve Michalak case.
• Lincolnshire Dragon: Explores the application of psychology to UFO reports and local legends.
• The Ley Hunter: Features articles on Stonehenge, ancient sites, and ley formations.
• Magic Saucer: Includes a ghost story and material on an alleged extraterrestrial communicator.
• Magonia: Critiques research on imaginary UFO abductions induced by hypnosis.
• MAPIT Skywatch: Offers evaluations of UFO experiences.
• Meeting the Third Millennium: Reviews a book on 'The Earthquake Generation'.
• MUFON UFO Journal: Analyzes physiological reactions of UFO witnesses.
• Northern Earth Mysteries: A retrospective of the Ley Hunter's Club.
• Northern Ufology: Discusses 'window areas' and sociological explanations for UFO sightings.
• Northern UFO News: Responds to 'over-involvement' in pseudo-science in ufology and reports on psychic phenomena.
• The Probe Report: Analyzes photographic UFO cases and features a report from Jenny Randles.
• Psychic News: Reports on a campaign to improve standards in Spiritualism.
• S.P.R. Journal: Features a study on precognition and technical pieces on complex phenomena.

Other Reviews and Articles

• The Skeptical Inquirer: Reviews 'Hypnosis and UFO abductions', focusing on criticisms of Lawson and Sprinkle.
• UFO Insight: Critiques Frank Johnson's 'The Janos People' and discusses investigation processes.
• UFO Research Review: An issue compiled under the influence of Professor John Taylor, featuring a review of Jenny Randles's 'UFO Study' and an attack on UFOIN investigators.
• The Angel Hair Problem in UFO Research: A paper by Robert Morrell suggesting most angel hair cases are explicable by spider webs.
• A Microcomputer - UFO Database: Paul Wilson outlines a system for storing and retrieving UFO reports using a microcomputer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor, ethical conduct, and critical analysis in paranormal research, particularly in ufology. There is a clear stance against unsubstantiated theories and a call for objective investigation. The 'Control-System Theory' is presented as a significant, albeit controversial, development in the field, with the magazine offering critical perspectives on its proponents. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging informed discussion and maintaining objectivity in the face of complex and often baffling phenomena. The inclusion of abstracts from a wide range of publications indicates a broad interest in the paranormal field and a desire to keep readers informed about ongoing research and debates.

Title: Common Ground
Issue: Volume 2, Issue 2
Date: November 1983
Publisher: MAPIT
Price: £1.50

This issue of Common Ground delves into the burgeoning field of information management for Fortean and paranormal research, highlighting the development of computer databases and resource centers. It also touches upon controversial spiritual figures, organizational dynamics within the paranormal community, and the challenges faced by ufology publications.

The MAPIT Resources Centre

David Rees introduces the MAPIT Resources Centre, a project born from discussions between MAPIT and FUFOR. The centre's primary goal is to create a comprehensive, centralized collection of reference material, not limited to ufology, serving as a long-term archival resource. Rees emphasizes the increasing rate of information growth and the need for organized access. The centre will be accessible to researchers, media, and the general public through various means, including telephone, mail, and personal visits. To manage the vast amount of information, a Sinclair K-810 computer has been acquired to set up three main indexes: general, subject, and abstract. The centre relies on donations of materials such as newsclippings, old magazines, tapes, and case histories. A support fund has been established to aid in purchasing collections and individual items, with donations directed to the MAPIT address in Offerton, Stockport.

The Fortean Computer Project

Bob Rickard, editor of 'Fortean Times,' details the 'Fortean Computer Project.' This initiative centers on the data accumulated from 'Fortean Times' itself, supplemented by the libraries of associated Forteans and donated collections. The project aims to computerize this information to enhance efficiency, not by creating a simple database, but by developing a 'super-index' with advanced facilities for extraction, compilation, and correlation of specific topics. Rickard explains that the decision to wait for computer technology to advance and prices to decrease has been beneficial. The project prioritizes making Rickard's own research more efficient, with the long-term vision of enabling inquiries to be answered via computer printouts. He acknowledges the challenges of implementation, potential costs for access, and the need for commercial users to contribute substantially.

Fortean Research Methodology

Kevin McClure, in his 'Closing Remarks,' discusses the broad field of paranormal research and the concept of 'Forteanism' as an approach rather than a specific subject. He defines Fortean research as encompassing data collection, cross-referencing with primary witnesses, correlation of phenomena, and compilation of chronological and bibliographical lists. McClure describes the refinement of a basic system for accumulating data, opting for an unstructured database that can be interrogated on specific points. He notes that such a system requires sophisticated equipment, estimating costs between £1,500-£2,000 for a basic computer setup. The database structure involves multiple files for different types of extracted information, with every entry being cross-referencable. He highlights the need for a 'database manager' and the potential for future expansion, including multiple terminals and hard disc storage. McClure also touches upon the financial aspects, emphasizing that database development requires significant personal investment of time and money.

Sai Baba

The issue briefly addresses the growing publicity surrounding Shri Sathya Sai Baba, a spiritual leader from Southern India. It notes the claims of miracles, psi-type powers, and extensive healing attributed to him, as reported in publications like 'Psychic News' and 'Two Worlds.' The article mentions that Baba's followers claim he is the Second Coming of Christ, while also referencing accusations of sexual exploitation by former disciple Tal Brooke. The publication expresses a desire to focus on objective, verified reports of anomalous events rather than religious or emotional attitudes.

Closing Remarks and Organizational Dynamics

Kevin McClure's 'Closing Remarks' reflect on the state of paranormal research, noting a period of fragmentation and new beginnings. He discusses the aftermath of the S.P.R. dispute and the formation of the Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena (ASSAP). McClure hopes for constructive relations between these organizations, with 'Common Ground' serving as a journal of record for ASSAP. He also addresses the problems within ufology, including dwindling finances, membership issues, and disputes over methodology, citing the cessation of the BUFORA Journal and the difficult position of 'Flying Saucer Review.' McClure expresses encouragement regarding a rumored cooperation between BUFORA and 'Flying Saucer Review,' and a potential reorganization to link BUFORA and UFOIN investigation networks. He congratulates Leslie Bayer, Maureen Hall, and Jenny Randles for their efforts. The article emphasizes the growing concern for ethics and training in investigation, suggesting that the subject is reaching maturity. 'Common Ground' pledges to chronicle this era and facilitate communication among practitioners. The publication 'Psychic News' has also committed to broadening its scope and featuring in-depth articles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical need for organized information management and the application of technology, particularly computers, to Fortean and paranormal research. There is a strong emphasis on the development of databases and resource centers as essential tools for serious investigation. The issue also highlights the challenges of fragmentation, internal disputes, and financial constraints within various paranormal research organizations and publications. The editorial stance, as expressed by Kevin McClure, is one of cautious optimism, advocating for genuine, open-minded research, ethical standards, and cooperation among different groups, while remaining critical of internal conflicts and sensationalism. The publication aims to be a chronicler and facilitator of this evolving field.