Deguforum - Issue 14 - 1997

Magazine Overview

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 14
Volume: 4.Jahrgang
Date: June 1997
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V.
Country: Germany
Price: DM 7,50

This issue of DEGUFORUM, the journal of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research, delves into several intriguing topics related to UFO phenomena, space exploration, and theoretical physics.

Articles and Features

Does NASA Withhold Hubble Images of Hale-Bopp?

This article questions why NASA has not released more detailed images of Comet Hale-Bopp taken by the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). It cites Olivier Hainaut, who explains that the HST's operational constraints prevent it from observing objects within 50 degrees of the Sun. Hale-Bopp was within this exclusion zone for much of 1995 and 1996, limiting observations. While the HST did capture images in April, May, June, September, and October 1996, they were not deemed urgent for release until July 1996 when new material streams were observed. The article suggests that the lack of immediate release was due to technical limitations rather than a conspiracy, and that ground-based telescopes and amateur astronomers provided many of the best images.

Update on the Libya Sighting

This section discusses physicist and author Hans-Peter Stricker's work on time travel theories, drawing from the General Relativity. Stricker proposes that phenomena like the 'Libya sighting' could be explained by the deformation of four-dimensional spacetime by an object, possibly a singularity akin to a black hole. The article explores the concept of wormholes, theorized to connect two black holes and potentially enable travel to other universes or through time. It references the mathematical models of wormholes and their potential visualization as two spheres with a tunnel connecting them. The author aligns Stricker's interpretation of physical phenomena with his own, suggesting a possible link between advanced technology and the UFO phenomenon.

Extraterrestrial Spacecraft

This article presents an excerpt from Christoph Krüger's work, which explores theories of extraterrestrial spacecraft propulsion and their potential connection to the UFO phenomenon. Krüger, influenced by his background and access to UFO literature after the fall of the Berlin Wall, integrates concepts from esoteric worldviews and physics. He discusses the idea of 'ether fields' from anthroposophy, suggesting they could be modulated by meditative intent to control matter and enable phenomena like teleportation or advanced propulsion. Krüger proposes that UFOs might utilize 'De Broglie waves' – long-wavelength probability waves – to achieve movement, potentially by 'inflating' microscopic quantum wormholes. He also touches upon the idea of 'etheric fields' interacting with electromagnetic fields for propulsion and navigation, and the possibility of 'parapsychological bicycles' for teleportation. The article also mentions the criteria for scientific theories proposed by physicist Paul Davies, emphasizing consistency with existing results and mathematical rigor.

Trash in Space

This section highlights the growing problem of space debris. It discusses how the Russian Mir space station was reportedly accompanied by several light objects, which the authors dismiss as unlikely to be mere trash due to established disposal practices. The article details the dangers posed by debris, citing the example of the French reconnaissance satellite 'Cerise' being damaged by a fragment from an exploded Ariane rocket. It notes that hundreds of thousands of debris fragments, ranging from millimeter-sized to large pieces, orbit the Earth, posing a constant threat to spacecraft. The article estimates that within 50 years, the sky could be filled with over 10 million debris fragments, potentially isolating the planet.

The Time Network

This section appears to be a placeholder or a brief mention of a topic related to time, possibly linking to the time travel discussions in other articles.

Theme: Evolution

This section is a thematic heading, suggesting that the concept of evolution is explored within the issue, potentially in relation to extraterrestrial life or the development of consciousness.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are listed:

• "We are all immortal - death is an illusion"
• "The phenomenon of the century - Prominent figures and experts on the UFO question"
• "Fire in the Sky"
• "Man as part of the UFO phenomenon"

These reviews indicate a focus on topics such as consciousness, immortality, prominent UFO researchers, and the human connection to UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM include the critical examination of official narratives regarding UFOs (specifically NASA's role with Hale-Bopp), the exploration of theoretical physics concepts (like wormholes and time travel) as potential explanations for UFO phenomena, and the practical concerns of space exploration (space debris). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging discussion and the integration of scientific and potentially esoteric perspectives to understand the UFO phenomenon. The magazine aims to provide readers with information and theoretical frameworks to engage with these complex subjects.

DEGUFORUM, Issue 14, dated June 1997, is a German-language publication that delves into topics of consciousness, immortality, and the UFO phenomenon. The issue features a prominent article by Ernst Meckelburg titled "We are all immortal - The error of death," which explores the concept of consciousness surviving physical death. Another significant contribution is Reinhard Habeck's review of his book "UFO - The Phenomenon of the Century," which compiles perspectives from various personalities on the UFO question.

Ernst Meckelburg: "We are all immortal - The error of death"

This extensive article by Ernst Meckelburg, published by Langen-Müller-Verlag, challenges the finality of physical death. Meckelburg posits that our biological death, the death of our material body, is predetermined, leading to primal fears about the end of existence. He argues that scientific advancements in "survival" research, consciousness-controlled machines, and cyberspace systems are forcing a re-evaluation, leading to the acceptance of a real continuation of our consciousness in a "beyond" or "afterlife." The author supports this by presenting several lines of evidence:

• Near-Death Experiences (NDEs): Meckelburg highlights that even critical medical professionals no longer doubt the authenticity of NDEs, which often involve profound peace, tunnel experiences, and life reviews.
• Astral Body Egress: He mentions reports of astral body projections, where individuals experience states that seem to anticipate post-death conditions.
• Multiple Personalities: The phenomenon of multiple personalities is presented as evidence for the independence of consciousness from the body, explaining cases of possession.
• Transcommunication: He refers to channeled messages and instrumental contacts with entities from the "beyond," suggesting that transcommunication under laboratory conditions has been proven.
• Reincarnation: Cases of rebirth are cited, which lack biological or medical explanations.

Meckelburg asserts that immortality is not fiction but a hard reality, with the sum of evidence being "overwhelming." He claims to have compiled and evaluated all significant evidence for the persistence of human consciousness after biological death, creating a stable chain of proof that even critical scientists must consider. The article suggests that the "sound barrier of death-silence" has been broken.

He further elaborates on the nature of consciousness, comparing it to a "field" like a magnetic field, where our personality is quasi-holographically stored. This immaterial consciousness field, he argues, is not destroyed by material influences and is therefore immortal. Evidence from severe brain injuries, where patients retain consciousness despite significant damage, is used to support the idea that the brain and consciousness are distinct entities.

Meckelburg also discusses the timelessness of consciousness, suggesting that while our physical bodies age, our sense of self remains ageless. He posits that consciousness is not subject to the laws of time and space and is therefore eternal. Information itself does not age, contributing to this feeling of timelessness.

NDEs are presented as crucial evidence, with descriptions of reanimated individuals who experienced a "no-man's-land" between life and death. These experiences often include a sense of profound peace, auditory phenomena, and the sensation of leaving one's body. Many report moving towards a bright light and encountering deceased loved ones. The return to the physical body is often described as painful, contrasting with the overwhelmingly positive feelings experienced in the "threshold of eternity."

Professor Kenneth Ring's research on NDEs is mentioned, indicating that these experiences are common across Western cultures, follow a basic pattern, and are accompanied by positive emotions that benefit the individuals. Meckelburg counters skeptical explanations (hallucinations, endorphins) by referencing scientific analyses that suggest NDEs are paranormal in nature, citing phenomena like clairvoyance and precognition during comatose states.

He also addresses the concept of "possession," which he links to multiple personalities. He argues that these are not split personalities but rather confused consciousness-entities of deceased individuals who are unable to integrate into the "beyond" due to misconceptions about the afterlife. These entities can then attach to living individuals, causing distress and psychological issues.

Reinhard Habeck: "UFO - The Phenomenon of the Century"

This section reviews Reinhard Habeck's book, which compiles interviews with over 50 prominent figures about their experiences and views on UFOs and extraterrestrials. The book is described as a comprehensive overview of the UFO phenomenon, featuring insights from actors, directors, scientists, politicians, and authors. The review highlights the diversity of opinions and the amusive nature of some of the interviews, mentioning observations by Charles Berlitz and the experiences of MUFON-CES chief Dipl. Phys. Illobrand von Ludwiger.

The review notes that the book includes contributions from well-known figures in the UFO scene, such as Erich von Däniken, Ulrich Dopatka, Peter Fiebag, and others. The 324-page book is praised for its content and its surprisingly low price of DM 19.80, making it an "excellent bargain" for UFO enthusiasts.

Travis Walton: "Fire in the Sky"

This review critically examines Travis Walton's account of his alleged UFO abduction. The reviewer finds Walton's book to be overly lengthy and filled with extraneous details about his life and the filming of the movie based on his story. The review questions the credibility of Walton's account, pointing out inconsistencies such as witnesses seeing him in his hometown at a time he claimed to be abducted. It also highlights the polygraph tests conducted on Walton, which the reviewer suggests he attempted to fail, and mentions an aggressive reaction from one of Walton's brothers towards an investigator.

The reviewer suggests that Walton may have been motivated by financial gain, given the book and film deals. The article concludes by labeling Walton as a "hoaxer" and comparing him to other alleged UFO claimants like Billy Meier and George Adamski.

Craig Roberts: "Man as Part of the UFO Phenomenon"

This is a review of a seminar paper by Craig Roberts, a psychology student from the University of Southampton. The paper explores two potential explanations for CE IV experiences (abductions): the "Fantasy Prone Personality" theory and the effects of electromagnetic radiation on the human brain. The reviewer praises Roberts' objective and serious analysis, calling it a "well-founded UFO research" and recommending the publication.

Reader Letters and Editorial Responses

The issue includes correspondence between readers and the editorial staff, particularly concerning the magazine's perceived shift towards "esotericism." Armin Risi, in a letter, expresses his agreement with many of the magazine's articles but also raises a point about the nature of reality and perception. He distinguishes between creating reality and selecting our perception of it, emphasizing that while we choose what to perceive, we do not create the underlying reality.

Risi's letter touches upon the idea of a "highest consciousness - God" creating lower-dimensional consciousnesses and worlds. He aligns with the concept that development from lower to higher is not possible without a higher will. He also discusses the limitations of empirical science and the importance of understanding the multidimensional nature of the cosmos.

In response, the editor (likely H.J. Heyer) addresses Risi's critique, inviting him to provide specific, reasoned objections to the "esoteric direction" of the magazine. The editor defends the magazine as a discussion forum and challenges critics to engage with their arguments. The editor emphasizes the importance of philosophical inquiry and the limitations of empirical proof, particularly when dealing with consciousness and subjective experiences.

Another reader, P.G. Schmitt, announces his resignation from DEGUFO e.V. due to the magazine's perceived "esoteric drift" under H.J. Heyer's influence. He states that his resignation is not related to specific incidents but rather to a disagreement with the magazine's direction. He still wishes to receive the magazine as a subscriber.

The editor responds to Schmitt's critique, again inviting specific, reasoned arguments against the "esoteric" content. The editor reiterates his willingness to explain and defend his positions and challenges Schmitt to break his silence and engage in a debate.

Other Content

The issue also includes brief mentions of other publications and topics, such as "Unknown Reality" by Mario Ringmann, and discussions related to the "Devolution" theory, the nature of consciousness, and the limitations of materialism. There are also references to books by Werner E. Risi and Armin Risi, and a discussion about Tom Smith's telepathic texts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of consciousness, its potential independence from the physical body, and the possibility of an afterlife or continued existence beyond death. The magazine also engages with the UFO phenomenon, presenting various perspectives and critically examining specific cases. There is a clear editorial stance favoring open discussion and critical inquiry, while also exploring unconventional ideas and challenging materialistic paradigms. The editor actively encourages reader participation and debate, particularly regarding the magazine's perceived "esoteric" leanings, framing it as a necessary exploration of topics beyond the scope of conventional science.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated June 1997, features a collection of articles, letters, and responses that explore the complex interplay between UFO phenomena, philosophy, science, and consciousness. The magazine, under the editorship of Hans-Joachim Heyer, continues to foster a platform for in-depth discussion, often delving into metaphysical and philosophical questions that extend beyond traditional UFO research.

Editorial Stance and Reader Engagement

The issue opens with a commentary from the editor, Hans-Joachim Heyer, addressing a reader's question about contact with extraterrestrials. Heyer expresses surprise that his assertions about contact have not generated more inquiry, suggesting a societal reluctance to engage with such possibilities. He touches upon the limitations of current physics in understanding vast distances and the fundamental nature of space itself.

Letter from P.G. Schmitt (1st and 2nd part)

P.G. Schmitt, a former member, writes to Heyer, reflecting on his past reasons for leaving the organization. He acknowledges that his initial interpretation of 'esotericism' was too narrow and that DEGUFORUM has evolved significantly under Heyer's leadership. Schmitt praises the magazine for its shift towards philosophical discussions, noting that 21 out of 36 pages in the previous issue were dedicated to such topics. He views DEGUFORUM as a platform for Heyer's philosophical theses, which he finds highly interesting and well-articulated, surpassing other publications in the field. However, Schmitt also expresses a desire for a clearer connection between Heyer's philosophy and the core UFO research that founded DEGUFORUM, questioning if the original research goal is being overshadowed.

In his second letter, Schmitt further clarifies his position, stating that DEGUFORUM shares Hesemann's view on the material existence of UFOs but extends this to include UFOs that transcend materialistic frameworks and cannot be empirically researched. He refutes Hesemann's claim that DEGUFORUM denies the existence of UFOs. Schmitt argues that while Hesemann's empirical research has yielded many cases, it has not provided new answers, whereas DEGUFORUM's theoretical work, particularly on the nature of space, offers novel explanations for UFO phenomena. He defends the magazine's approach, asserting that they conduct more UFO research than anyone else by including theoretical and foundational research alongside data collection.

Letter from Astrid Schurig

Astrid Schurig expresses interest in the experiences of a reader named Frau Anders and wishes to connect with her. She also comments on the editorial discussions, noting the differing views on the nature of extraterrestrials between Hesemann (who believes in material reality) and DEGUFORUM (which explores broader, 'transdimensional' experiences). Schurig finds the extensive philosophical discussions, particularly Heyer's, to be somewhat of a filler, questioning the magazine's claim to be a UFO research society when its focus seems to be more on philosophy. She suggests that even 'non-sensory' experiences could be researched, perhaps through regression, similar to UFO abduction accounts.

Response to Astrid Schurig

Heyer responds to Schurig's points, clarifying that while DEGUFORUM acknowledges material UFOs, their research also encompasses phenomena beyond empirical verification. He reiterates that the magazine does not deny UFO existence and emphasizes that their theoretical work provides new answers where empirical research has stalled. Heyer defends the philosophical articles as essential for developing new models to understand phenomena like UFOs and out-of-body experiences (OBEs), which he argues cannot be adequately studied through purely empirical means. He points to previous issues where OBEs and related topics have been discussed extensively.

Letter from H. Schumacher (1st part)

H. Schumacher poses several questions to Heyer, inquiring about his belief in objective reality and whether perceived reality is merely a construct of the subject. He asks about the nature of 'Geist' (spirit/mind) and energy, and whether the divine (pantheism) exists in all things, including outside the observer. Schumacher also touches upon the concept of 'Ufonauts' as beings from other dimensions and the necessity of openness for communication with them.

Response to H. Schumacher

Heyer responds to Schumacher, stating that he does not believe in an objective reality in the material sense. For him, reality is 'Geist' and material objects are 'shadowy subjective representations' or 'images'. He posits that the eternal, subjective spirit creates space and time, and that everything perceived is a reflection of this spirit. He agrees with Plato's idea that concepts are first conceived in the mind before materialization. Heyer explains that by understanding this, individuals can influence their perceived reality and participate in creation, though not in the evolutionary sense, which he sees as a product of human ratio (reason) that can lead to self-destruction.

Letter from H. Schumacher (2nd part)

H. Schumacher expresses agreement with Heyer's view that spirit is primary and matter is an image. He questions the concept of 'Evolutionskreatoren' (creators of evolution) if all individuals share the same spirit. He also asks if UFOs are real, cosmic beings, and whether government secrecy regarding UFOs is necessary to prevent panic. Schumacher suggests that the government might be using UFOs to cover up something even more unimaginable and proposes that children could be raised with an anti-materialistic worldview from birth. He asks if he is ready to read Castaneda's books and in what order.

Response to H. Schumacher

Heyer clarifies that the 'Evolutionskreatoren' are those who initiated the myth of evolution, possibly influential figures behind scientific institutions, rather than Charles Darwin himself. He acknowledges that government secrecy might serve a purpose in preventing panic, as the population is already confused and manipulated. Heyer agrees to feature an interview with a 'space commander' if one comes forward. Regarding Castaneda, he advises that readiness depends on individual development, not age, and that he himself only began to understand Castaneda at 31.

Letter from Christian

Christian questions the nature of perception and reality, asking if everyone sees the same thing and if the media truly shapes our worldview. He poses a thought experiment about a mentally ill person falling from a mental institution's roof, asking if they would die if they didn't believe in materialism. He also inquires about the necessity of secrecy surrounding UFOs to prevent societal panic and suggests that the government might be using UFOs as a cover for something else.

Response to Christian

Heyer explains that manipulation through television is only effective if people believe it. He argues that the current chaotic environment, created by wars, corruption, and other societal issues, leads to a 'double bind' where people are conditioned to distrust their own judgment. He addresses the 'madman falling from the roof' scenario by explaining that death is an ego-based concept; if one identifies with the 'Self' rather than the ego, death is not a concern. He suggests that the mentally ill person might not die if they lack a strong ego or are identified with the 'Self'. Heyer also touches upon the idea that the 'Self' is immortal and unconcerned with material events.

H. Schumacher's Article: The Time Network

H. Schumacher describes his personal practice of remembering his dreams and reflecting on his daily experiences, which led him to discover a unifying 'network' or structure underlying both. He posits that this 'network' represents his eternal, immortal self, and that the aging process is a result of 'spinning off time threads' through linear life narratives. He proposes a solution: to integrate daily experiences and dreams into this network, creating a circular, eternal present. He contrasts this with the linear, cause-and-effect approach of natural science, which he believes only accounts for phenomena and not their ultimate cause.

Hans-Joachim Heyer's UFO Sighting Report (Bad Kreuznach)

Hans-Joachim Heyer reports a sighting by an individual named M.M. on October 8, 1996, of a V-shaped formation with seven to nine faintly glowing red points flying from south to north. The objects were silent and moved across the sky without blinking. M.M. later identified a photograph in Michael Hesemann's book 'UFOs über Deutschland' as matching his observation.

Reinhard Nühlen's UFO Sighting Report (Meisenheim)

Reinhard Nühlen reports two unexplained phenomena observed in Meisenheim. The first, on August 15, 1996, involved an orange fireball with blue flames seen by him, his wife, and their son. The object, described as an unidentifiable, orange, spherical object, was visible for about five minutes and was also observed by neighbors. The second sighting, on March 21, 1997, involved an orange, glowing object moving from west to east, which then stopped, moved sideways, changed color to bright white-yellow, then back to orange, and finally moved south at high speed. This object was also recognized as an orange disc through binoculars. Nühlen seeks further witness accounts.

Quergelesen: Thema Evolution

This section discusses Daniel C. Dennet's essay on evolution, viewing it as an algorithmic process. It explores the idea of a 'meta-level' for scientific discourse and questions whether a purely mechanistic algorithm can fully explain the universe. The text references Peter W. Atkins' ideas on creation without a creator and John Locke's philosophical arguments about matter, motion, and thought. It also touches upon Einstein's views on the deterministic nature of the universe and his rejection of quantum mechanics' probabilistic interpretation, aligning with Spinoza's concept of a God inherent in the natural order.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of reality (objective vs. subjective, material vs. spiritual), the limitations of empirical science in understanding consciousness and UFO phenomena, and the philosophical underpinnings of evolution and the universe. The editorial stance, as articulated by Hans-Joachim Heyer, is one that champions a broader, more philosophical approach to UFO research, integrating it with metaphysical and transdimensional concepts. The magazine actively encourages reader participation, fostering a debate that challenges conventional paradigms and seeks deeper understanding beyond mere data collection.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated June 1997 (Nr. 14), focuses on the complex interplay between 'Chaos and Order,' exploring scientific and philosophical perspectives on the nature of reality, knowledge, and organization. The cover headline highlights this central theme, and the issue delves into various theories and debates surrounding these concepts.

Information and the Universe

The issue begins by touching upon the concept of information as a fundamental aspect of the universe, referencing Steven Hawking's work on the Big Bang and the potential implications for the existence of God. It introduces the idea that the universe, from the Planck time onwards, can be described by physical laws. The discussion then moves to the concept of 'information' itself, noting that while physics is successful, it doesn't fully explain fundamental concepts like energy, similar to how psychology defines intelligence by what intelligence tests measure.

System Theory and Evolution

A key theme is the evolution of system theories, moving from System Theory I and Cybernetics I to System Theory II and Cybernetics II. This progression is linked to an expanded concept of evolution that encompasses not just the mechanisms of maintaining equilibrium or the development of species, but also the broader processes of becoming, unfolding, and developing across all systems, from the earliest particles to complex human socio-technical systems. This new theory aims to bridge the gap between reductionism and holism.

Holism vs. Reductionism

The magazine contrasts holism and reductionism. Reductionism seeks to explain a complex whole by breaking it down into its constituent parts. Holism, on the other hand, posits that the whole possesses emergent properties that cannot be predicted from the individual parts, famously summarized as 'the whole is more than the sum of its parts.' The article notes that some see this emergent property as evidence of fundamental indeterminism in nature. However, it critiques holism for potentially invoking hidden forces or relying on chance as a primary organizational factor, citing concepts like entelechy, moule interne, and morphogenetic fields as examples of holistic principles that challenge analytical scientific methods.

The text argues that neither holism nor reductionism provides a definitive criterion for understanding the completeness of knowledge about a given system. Holism suggests that emergent properties are unpredictable due to random development or an unexplainable organizational factor. Reductionism, conversely, posits that apparent randomness might be due to unobserved causes, with the underlying conditions for system development being fundamentally structured. The concept of self-organization is presented as a phenomenon that can be explained by both principles.

The Sokal Affair and Postmodern Critique

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the 'Sokal affair,' stemming from an article by Alan Sokal, a physics professor at New York University. Sokal's essay, "Transgressing the Boundaries - Towards a Transformative Hermeneutics," published in the journal 'Social Text,' caused considerable controversy. Sokal satirically argued that natural laws are inventions of 'dead white males' and that fundamental mathematical constants like Pi are not fixed truths but cultural constructs. He called for natural sciences to abandon traditional objectivity and embrace a culturally interpreted theory for social 'emancipation.'

The article highlights Sokal's critique of scientists who claim a monopoly on producing scientific knowledge and his assertion that postmodern natural science offers support for progressive political projects aimed at transcending boundaries and democratizing all aspects of life.

The magazine then connects this to a New York Times article from October 1996, which discussed the conflict between archaeological explanations and Native American creation myths regarding the peopling of the Americas. The article notes that some archaeologists, torn between scientific methodology and respect for indigenous cultures, have moved towards a postmodern relativism where science is seen as just one way of knowing, with indigenous worldviews being equally valid.

Analyzing Relativism

Andreas Haxel's contribution, "Chaos und Ordnung - Formen der Selbstorganisation in Natur und Gesellschaft," critically examines the implications of such relativistic claims. Haxel dissects the assertion that a Zuni myth can be "equally valid" as an archaeological theory, analyzing it in terms of truth, justification, and purpose. He argues that if two contradictory claims can both be true from different perspectives, it leads to a self-undermining postmodernism, where even the claim that realism is false could be considered true.

Haxel further questions the justification of claims in a relativistic framework. He points out that if all proof rules are considered equally valid, then any claim can be justified by formulating an appropriate rule. This leads to a paradox where the postmodernist must admit their own views are as justified as their opponents', unless they can establish that some proof rules are better than others, which would imply the existence of objective facts and contradict uncompromising relativism.

Regarding the purpose of claims, Haxel suggests that even if a Zuni myth serves a different purpose than scientific theory (e.g., storytelling rather than historical reconstruction), it does not challenge the objectivity of the scientific account unless it directly competes with it. He concludes that the idea of "equally valid" claims, when interpreted in a way that avoids direct contradiction or competition, becomes irrelevant to the problem of scientific objectivity.

Recommended Reading

The issue concludes by recommending two books for further reading on the topics of chaos, order, and self-organization: "Chaos und Ordnung - Formen der Selbstorganisation in Natur und Gesellschaft" edited by Günter Küppers, and "Emergenz: Die Entstehung von Ordnung Organisation und Bedeutung" edited by Wolfgang Krohn and Günter Küppers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the fundamental nature of order and chaos, the principles of self-organization, and the philosophical implications of different scientific and epistemological approaches. The magazine appears to critically engage with postmodern relativism, particularly as applied to science, advocating for a nuanced understanding of objectivity and justification while acknowledging the complexity of emergent phenomena and the evolution of scientific thought. The editorial stance seems to be one of rigorous intellectual inquiry, challenging claims that lack empirical or logical support, especially when they undermine the foundations of scientific knowledge.