Common Ground - No 08

Magazine Overview

Title: COMMON GROUND
Issue: Eight
Subtitle: The Radical Journal of the Paranormal
Publisher: Kevin & Sue McClure
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of 'Common Ground' presents a diverse range of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, archaeological mysteries, and fringe science. The cover features a striking illustration combining a UFO with a demonic figure, hinting at the eclectic and often controversial nature of the journal's content.

Articles

The Layman's Guide to the Archeological and Statistical Evidence for Leys by Clive Potter

Clive Potter addresses the skepticism surrounding ley lines from orthodox archaeologists. He argues that traditional archaeological methods often present their case poorly and that the ley theory is unfairly dismissed as belonging to the 'lunatic fringe'. Potter contends that archaeological evidence, including pollen analysis, environmental data, and the existence of cursus and 'ranch' boundaries, suggests that the prehistoric landscape was more cleared and organized than previously assumed, making it conducive to alignments. He also points to foreign parallels and the work of John Michell, who analyzed alignments at Land's End using contemporary stone markers. Potter acknowledges the statistical challenges and criticisms, such as those by Heaton, but suggests that statistical analysis, when properly applied and combined with fieldwork, is crucial for validating ley theory. He emphasizes the need for accurate mapping, site identification, and consideration of intervisibility and astronomical qualities.

The 'Virtual Transitions' of William Stainton Moses by Manfred Cassirer

Manfred Cassirer examines the mediumship of William Stainton Moses, a clergyman and founder member of the Society for Psychical Research. Cassirer focuses on Moses' 'virtual transitions,' or materializations, which included 'spirit' or 'fluid' hands. These phenomena were often accompanied by paranormal lights, sounds, and fragrances. The article details various instances of materialised hands, some capable of grasping objects or the medium's own hand, and mentions 'attouchements' (touches) and direct writing, which Frederic Myers considered strong evidence for survival.

The Anomaly of Astrology by Jenny Randles

Jenny Randles defends astrology, despite its scientific detractors like Steven Solnick and organizations like CSICOP. She acknowledges that much of astrology is nonsensical, particularly newspaper horoscopes, but distinguishes it from genuine astrological practice. Randles, an astrologer herself, asserts that based on her experience drawing up hundreds of birth-charts and observing life progressions, astrology 'works' and produces results better than chance. She argues that while computers struggle with the art of astrology, human integration of scientific data and psychological insight is key to understanding individual charts. Randles believes that the environment plays a significant role in how astrological traits are expressed, making the astrologer's role akin to that of a psychologist and sociologist.

Reviews

'The Terror that Comes in the Night' by David Hufford (Reviewed by Hilary Evans)
Hilary Evans reviews David Hufford's book on the 'Old Hag' experience, a phenomenon of an unknown presence entering one's bedroom. Evans praises Hufford's study for focusing attention on this neglected phenomenon and for his determination not to be shackled by traditional methodology. Hufford's research suggests that the 'experiential source' is more valid than the 'cultural source' for explaining such experiences. The review highlights Hufford's broad perspective, taking UFO-entity experiences seriously and recognizing that folk observation can sometimes precede scientific understanding.

'Sword and Sorcerers' (The Sword and the Stone by Andrew Collins; The Green Stone by Graham Phillips and Martin Keatman) (Reviewed by Bob Gilbert)
Bob Gilbert reviews two books that he likens to a retelling of Tolkien's 'Lord of the Ring'. The books purportedly detail a 'Quest' involving a magical sword and stone, linked to ancient orders, Knights Templar, and psychic messages. Gilbert expresses skepticism about the historical accuracy and the claims made, particularly regarding the 'Joanna' entity and the revision of history. He questions why the Knights Templar, if prescient, did not avoid their own downfall.

'The Hidden Dangers of the Rainbow' by Constance Cumbey (Reviewed by Kevin McClure)
Kevin McClure reviews Constance Cumbey's book, which critiques the New Age Movement from an American evangelical perspective. McClure notes that the book sees conspiracy and demonolatry in anything deviating from born-again Christianity. While finding the arguments well-reasoned, he points out that some sections are irrelevant due to Creme's claims being nonsensical. The review highlights the book's thoroughness, including listings of New Age organizations and a bibliography, and notes its arguments may give New Agers pause for thought.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'Common Ground' consistently explores phenomena that lie outside mainstream scientific and historical acceptance. Themes include the validity of alternative interpretations of archaeological evidence (ley lines), the reality of paranormal experiences (mediumship, 'Old Hag' phenomenon), and the enduring appeal of astrology. The journal appears to champion the investigation of these subjects, often presenting arguments that challenge conventional views and encouraging readers to consider evidence that might be dismissed by orthodox disciplines. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry into the 'fringe of human experience', even when dealing with controversial or statistically debated topics.

This issue of Common Ground (G9) is a compilation of articles and reader contributions exploring a diverse range of topics including astrology, ufology, earth mysteries, and spiritualism. The magazine adopts a critical yet open-minded approach, encouraging evidence-based investigation and challenging established dogmas from various perspectives.

Astrology: A Call for Scientific Rigor

The issue opens with a piece that defends astrology, not as a mystical art, but as a potential tool for self-understanding and personal development. The author argues that negative character traits can be explained and addressed through astrological analysis, helping individuals to mobilize their strengths. The article stresses the importance of practical application and suggests that a few basic texts can demonstrate the truth of astrology. It calls for a 'mutual project' called PROJECT ASTRO to solicit ideas for practicable experiments that ASSAP (the organization publishing the magazine) might conduct, aiming to establish astrology as a scientific art free from 'mumbo-jumbo' and useful to established science. The author criticizes those who dismiss astrology without personal study, comparing them to those who scoff at UFOs or the Loch Ness Monster, suggesting their prejudices prevent them from accepting the possibility of the unknown.

Ufology: Declining Reports and Growing Skepticism

Letters to the editor address the state of ufology. Peter Rogerson notes a decline in UFO reports, potentially linked to economic recession, and questions if other 'hobbles' have also seen a decline. He suggests that fewer people being outdoors at night might contribute, and that psychological factors or even vicarious experiences from films like 'Close Encounters' could play a role. Rogerson observes that many ufologists are expressing doubts about the evidence for extraordinary phenomena, citing examples like Warminster and the Green Stone affair. He also points to the role of the 'Moonies' in promoting the Warminster legend, specifically mentioning Anthony Brook's involvement.

Earth Mysteries: A Review of Recent Publications

Chris Ashton provides an extended review of four books on Earth Mysteries: T. C. Lethbridge's 'The Power of the Pendulum' and 'The Legend of the Sons of God', Christian O'Brien's 'The Megalithic Odyssey', and J. Havelock Fidler's 'Ley Lines - Their Nature and Properties'. Ashton discusses O'Brien's diffusionist theory, which posits that a group of 'supermen and superwomen' were responsible for ancient engineering projects, and his speculation about the Bodmin Moor megalithic complex being a crucial step in the agricultural revolution. Ashton finds O'Brien's ideas speculative and questions the scale of work involved in the megaliths. He also touches upon Lethbridge's work, which explores dowsing and astro-archaeology, and his controversial ideas about 'higher beings' influencing human consciousness, drawing parallels with Eric von Daniken. Lethbridge's approach is described as anecdotal and sometimes elitist, with a tendency to present ideas as a 'fairy tale' to encourage independent thought. Fidler's work on ley lines is reviewed, noting his acknowledgement of Lethbridge and his research into dowsable phenomena related to stone. However, Ashton points out Fidler's confusion between Watkins's ley concept and dowsable energy, and his tendency to draw conclusions that ley energy is not necessarily beneficial.

Spiritualism and Christian Opposition

Kevin McClure addresses the conflict between Spiritualism and fundamentalist Christian beliefs. He critiques the common Christian argument that Spiritualism is forbidden by the Bible and that contacted spirits are demons. McClure highlights that such arguments often rely on selective biblical interpretations and ignore evidence for the survival of personality after bodily death. He criticizes the 'occult disaster' stories used by opponents, which often lack verification and conflate Spiritualism with games like Ouija boards. McClure argues that these critics are making judgments in the 20th century and should be pressed for recent, verifiable evidence, rather than relying solely on ancient scripture. He also criticizes the tendency to portray Spiritualists as 'crackpots' and emphasizes the need to present the case for Spiritualism with clarity and force, demanding proof from its critics.

The 'Dark Age' Concept and Societal Fragmentation

Several articles explore the concept of a 'Dark Age' and its implications. One article links the 'Itinerant sages' of ancient times to a 'master race' hypothesis, contrasting it with Charles Fort's explanation of technological development. The idea of 'higher beings' influencing human consciousness is discussed, with parallels drawn to major religions and the work of Eric von Daniken and T. C. Lethbridge. The article also touches upon the perceived decline of societal morals, the influence of feminism, and the corruption of the education system, suggesting a fragmentation of society that is turning the 20th century into a 'satanic era'.

Another piece, 'UFO Entities - Warnings of the Dark Age' by Paul D. Murray, views the UFO phenomenon as part of a larger struggle involving politics and history, linking it to the 'communistic atheism' and the 'Revelation of the Son'. Murray suggests that apparitions and UFOs can be illusions created by both sides in this conflict, and that turning away from faith in salvation makes the human heart a likely battleground. He connects UFO phenomena to a 'global conspiracy' and mentions the assassination of President Kennedy and the Manson family murders as examples of the 'Dark Age'. The article also references Peter Sutcliffe, the 'Yorkshire Ripper', and the Whitechapel murders, suggesting a pattern of ritualistic killings and authorities downplaying their significance.

Closing Remarks

Kevin McClure's closing remarks reflect on the articles, particularly the ufology aspect, noting that Paul Murray's approach finds support in the new editorship of FSR. He acknowledges the 'UFO Control Theory' and the idea that some phenomena might be initiated by an 'intelligent, essentially evil force'. McClure expresses his personal view that nothing can be proven without evidence and sees no reason to assume the existence of the devil or demons. He criticizes the tendency to interpret paranormal events through religious lenses, whether Christian or Pagan, and suggests that drawing conclusions about good and evil from incomprehensible sources is presumptuous. He highlights that paranormal events often appear to relate to religious belief, but cautions against wild conclusions from difficult evidence, advocating for consensus and objectivity. He also mentions the potential for 'exorcisms' to be dangerous, driven by a combination of belief, ego, and thrill-seeking. McClure notes that his book about the Virgin Mary has been well-received by Catholics but has offended some Pagans. He concludes by emphasizing the need to eschew wild conclusions and assess source material objectively, irrespective of individual religious beliefs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Common Ground include a critical examination of paranormal phenomena through the lens of evidence and scientific inquiry. There is a consistent call to move beyond superstition and dogma, whether in astrology, ufology, or spiritualism, and to seek verifiable proof. The magazine appears to challenge both fundamentalist opposition and uncritical acceptance of the paranormal, advocating for a balanced, rational, yet open-minded approach. The 'Dark Age' concept serves as a framing device for discussing societal and spiritual decline, often linked to a perceived loss of faith and the intrusion of malevolent forces or conspiracies. The editorial stance favors rigorous investigation, intellectual honesty, and a healthy skepticism that does not preclude the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena.