Deguforum - Issue 16 - 1997

Magazine Overview

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 16, 4. Jahrgang
Date: December 1997
Price: DM 7,50
Publisher: DEGUFO e. V. (German-speaking Society for UFO Research)
Cover Headline: UFOs und die Bundeswehr (UFOs and the German Armed Forces)

Editorial

Reinhard Nühlen, the editor, reflects on the year in ufology, particularly the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident. He urges readers to exercise caution and form their own judgments by consulting original sources, warning against getting lost in disinformation. Nühlen emphasizes the fundamental reality of UFOs, stating that despite attempts to explain them away, they represent phenomena not of this world. He draws on the article "UFOs and the Bundeswehr" as an example, referencing the BMVG's (Federal Ministry of Defence) stance and the historical Project Blue Book, which he argues was used for disinformation. Nühlen highlights that many people accept official summaries without reading the full reports, leading to a distorted understanding. He stresses the importance of continually pointing out the actual facts of UFO occurrences. Despite acknowledging that many sightings can be explained (e.g., Venus, weather balloons), he asserts that DEGUFO will not be deterred and will continue to contribute to keeping the UFO topic on the public agenda. He notes the significant number of visitors to their website (74,566) as encouragement. The issue promises diverse and interesting content, with Nühlen thanking supporters and wishing readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 1998.

Standpunkt: UFOs und die Bundeswehr

This section critically examines the German Ministry of Defence's (BMVG) official position on UFOs, which has consistently denied the existence of UFOs in Germany and any involvement of the Bundeswehr in investigating them. The author points out the discrepancy between this denial and the wealth of international documentation (e.g., from the US FOIA, Belgian, and Spanish Air Forces) that indicates government and military engagement with the UFO topic. The BMVG's standard response is that there are no UFOs, and any unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have natural explanations. The article cites a statement from the BMVG in 1981, reiterated in subsequent years, asserting that the ministry has no concrete evidence of UFOs.

Despite the official denial, the article notes that in the past, there was a positive and functional cooperation with specific departments of the Bundeswehr, such as the Luftwaffenamt (Air Force Office) in Cologne. An example is given of a sighting reported on August 20, 1995, near Brüggen, involving three lights in a triangular formation that exhibited unusual speed and deceleration. The Luftwaffenamt responded that no Bundeswehr aircraft were involved and that training flights do not occur on weekends, ruling out important transport or rescue missions due to the object's acceleration capabilities.

DEGUFO's request for continued cooperation was met with a response in October 1995, stating that while they strive for natural explanations, they cannot offer contractual cooperation. However, they promised to use their resources to identify unexplained phenomena.

The article further details a response from the BMVG in February 1996 to GAP-Germany, acknowledging the US Air Force's Project Blue Book (1947-1969) and its conclusion that 701 out of 12,618 reported cases remained unidentifiable. The BMVG cites the University of Colorado's "Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects" (the Condon Report) as a basis for discontinuing investigations, stating that no UFO reports indicated a threat to US security or provided insights into technology beyond current scientific understanding. The BMVG also claims that no incidents involving UFOs have been reported by Bundeswehr personnel.

The author criticizes the BMVG's reliance on the Condon Report, suggesting it was used to dismiss the UFO issue. The article highlights the Condon Report's alleged suppression of positive findings, using the example of the McMinville photos, which the report's internal analysis suggested were likely not faked, but this was omitted from Condon's summary.

The article then discusses a specific radar incident in Heidelberg on June 28, 1997, where multiple witnesses reported a bright light, and radar data showed an unidentified "primary target." Despite initial cooperation, the Bundeswehr later refused to provide further radar data, citing reasons such as data destruction or unavailability, which the author finds suspicious.

DEGUFO's extensive research into the Heidelberg incident and other cases, including the Belgian UFO wave of 1989/90 and Spanish UFO files, reveals a pattern of official denial and lack of transparency from the BMVG, contrasting with more open approaches in countries like Belgium and Spain. The article concludes by questioning whether the BMVG is intentionally following the Condon Report's line or is simply uninformed, and it highlights the ongoing discrepancy between official statements and the evidence suggesting UFOs are a real phenomenon.

Key Articles and Themes

• UFOs und die Bundeswehr: This main article details the German Ministry of Defence's (BMVG) official stance on UFOs, characterized by denial and a reliance on natural explanations. It contrasts this with international transparency and past cooperation, questioning the BMVG's motives and methods, particularly their use of the Condon Report.
• Reise durch den Hyperraum: Explores the concept of hyperspace travel.
• Die Philosophie G.F.W. Hegels: Discusses the philosophical work of G.F.W. Hegel.
• Über den Zufall: Examines the concept of chance.
• Buchbesprechungen: Includes reviews of "Geheimnisse der Bibel" (Mysteries of the Bible) and "Ungelöste Rätsel unserer Welt/Vom ewigen Leben über Geheimnisse der Meere und Seen bis zum Kontakt mit Außerirdischen" (Unsolved Mysteries of Our World/From Eternal Life to Mysteries of Seas and Lakes to Contact with Extraterrestrials).
• 50 Jahre Roswell - ein Mythos stürzt ab: Commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident, suggesting the myth is collapsing.
• Leben im Weltraum: Discusses the possibility of life in space.
• Die Roswell Transistor Story - Auf den Spuren einer Desinformation?: Investigates the Roswell Transistor Story, exploring it as a potential disinformation campaign.
• Politische Kultur: Examines political culture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the UFO phenomenon, government secrecy, and the critical examination of official narratives. DEGUFORUM's stance is clearly one of skepticism towards official denials and a commitment to uncovering and presenting evidence that contradicts these official positions. The magazine advocates for transparency and thorough research, encouraging readers to question authority and seek original sources. There is a strong emphasis on the idea that UFOs represent a genuine, unexplained phenomenon, and that governments, particularly the German Bundeswehr, have historically engaged in disinformation or suppression of information regarding this topic. The issue also touches upon broader philosophical and scientific inquiries, such as hyperspace travel and extraterrestrial life, framing them within a context of open-minded investigation.

Notable Quotes

• "Was uns bleibt, ist immer wieder darauf hinzuweisen, wie die tatsächlichen Gegebenheiten waren oder sind."
• Reinhard Nühlen

• "Es besteht die Gefahr, daß man sich zu sehr verzettelt, sich auf mögliche falsche Fährten locken läßt, und so allmählich den Durchblick für das eigentlich Wesentliche verliert."
• Reinhard Nühlen

• "Denn eines sollte man sich bei aller Aufgeregtheit im Einzelfall, bei allen Informations bzw. Desinformationsversuchen immer wieder vor Augen führen: Es besteht die Gefahr, daß man sich zu sehr verzettelt, sich auf mögliche falsche Fährten locken läßt, und so allmählich den Durchblick für das eigentlich Wesentliche verliert."
• Reinhard Nühlen

FAQ

• Q: What is the German Ministry of Defence's (BMVG) official stance on UFOs? A: The BMVG officially states that there are no UFOs in Germany and that any sightings can be explained by natural phenomena or misinterpretations. They claim no evidence of extraterrestrial technology or threats to national security has been found.

• Q: Does the German Bundeswehr cooperate with UFO research organizations? A: While there was past cooperation with the Luftwaffenamt (Air Force Office), the BMVG now states that direct cooperation on UFO research is not possible, citing a lack of specific UFO research departments and a focus on national security interests.

• Q: What is the significance of the 'Condon Report' in the context of UFO research? A: The Condon Report, a study commissioned by the US Air Force, concluded that UFOs were not a threat and offered no evidence of extraterrestrial technology. However, the article suggests the report's summary downplayed positive findings and was used to dismiss the UFO phenomenon.

• Q: Are there any documented UFO incidents in Germany that the Bundeswehr acknowledges? A: The Bundeswehr claims no incidents have been reported or become known within its ranks that could be linked to the UFO phenomenon. They state that radar tracking services have not identified any phenomena that cannot be explained by known aircraft or natural occurrences.

Key Facts Synopsis

This issue of DEGUFORUM critically examines the German military's (Bundeswehr) consistent denial of UFO activity within Germany, contrasting it with international transparency and past cooperation. The article highlights the BMVG's reliance on official reports like the Condon Report, suggesting these are used to dismiss the phenomenon. It details specific cases, including a sighting near Brüggen and a radar anomaly in Heidelberg, where official responses were evasive or contradictory. The issue also revisits the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident, questioning its mythos, and explores the possibility of disinformation surrounding the 'Roswell Transistor Story'. Broader themes of hyperspace travel, philosophy, and political culture are also covered, underscoring DEGUFORUM's commitment to open investigation and challenging official narratives.

This issue of Standpunkt, dated December 1997 (Issue No. 16), is a German-language publication from DEGUFORUM, focusing on ufology, physics, and philosophical topics. The cover prominently features the headline "Reise durch den Hyperraum" (Journey through Hyperspace), suggesting a focus on theoretical physics and cosmology.

Analysis of Flying Object Incidents in the U.S.

The issue begins with a "TOP SECRET" document titled "ANALYSIS OF FLYING OBJECT INCIDENTS IN THE U.S. - SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS." This document, identified as Air Intelligence Study 203, aims to examine the patterns of "Flying Saucers" and assess the possibility of their existence. It notes that approximately 210 incidents have been reported, with observers including trained professionals like U.S. Weather Bureau personnel, USAF officers, and civilian pilots. The study considers and largely dismisses explanations involving observer interest in personal publicity. It highlights specific observations from the U.S. Weather Bureau in Richmond, where trained observers sighted metallic disks on multiple occasions, even when observing weather balloons. These observations occurred before widespread public publicity about flying saucers. The descriptions of the objects fall into three categories: disk-shaped, cigar-shaped, and balls of fire, with the possibility that varying viewing conditions might account for these differences. The report concludes that objects have indeed been seen, but their identification remains difficult, with possibilities including domestic devices like weather balloons or rockets, or even celestial phenomena. It emphasizes the need for information on domestic activities to confirm or deny these possibilities before considering foreign devices. The pattern of sightings is described as most intense along the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines, and in the central states of Ohio and Kentucky.

Selected Reports on Incidents with Flying Objects

This section presents several selected reports:

• Richmond, Virginia (April 1947): Two "Weather Bureau" employees reported observing a strange metallic disk through a theodolite on three separate occasions while conducting "PIBAL observations." One observation at 15,000 feet described the object as metallic, elliptical, with a flat bottom and rounded tip, moving quickly and appearing larger than the balloon.
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (May 1947): An engineer from the Radio Corporation of America reported a flying disk near his home, estimated to be between 10,000 and 18,000 feet, moving at high speed to the north without leaving any flight traces.
• Near Lake Meade (Date unspecified): An Air Force lieutenant reported seeing five or six white circular objects moving at an estimated speed of 285 miles per hour at an altitude of 10,000 feet.
• Phoenix, Arizona (July 7, 1947): A disk was observed during sunset, and two photographs were taken. Experts verified these photographs, confirming they were not due to emulsion or lens errors, and depicted a disk-shaped object with a rounded front and a pointed tail.

Reports from England

The magazine then shifts to reports from England:

• December 6, 1956 (HQ No. 11 Group): A memo discusses recent reports of aerial phenomena, noting that some units are unaware of previous instructions regarding the reporting of such events. It outlines procedures for reporting unusual radar targets, emphasizing the need for immediate reporting to higher command and the Ministry of Aviation.
• April 29, 1957 (Ventnor, Isle of Wight): Pilot Officer R.F. Coles reported an unusual aerial phenomenon. At 20:07Z, Mr. L. Humpryes reported two objects moving southeast of Shanklin, estimated at 30,000 feet, described as metallic, elliptical, with a flat bottom and rounded tip, moving very quickly. At 20:20Z, Beachy Head reported two "angel-like" objects at 25,000 feet. By 21:10Z, only one object remained under observation. Later, RAF St. Margarets detected two fast radar traces, one moving southwest at 750-800 knots, with strong, regular signals.
• Odiham (April 29, 1957): Two Javelin aircraft (Mission 48 and 49) were scrambled to intercept an unidentified object. Mission 48 was tasked to intercept at 12 o'clock, 12 miles away, at 50,000 feet. Mission 49 was at 6 miles southeast of Yeovil at 45,000 feet. The object was reported at 12 o'clock, 10 miles away, at 50,000 feet, but disappeared into the darkness. The crew could not see anything, and the navigator's radar detected "pick-ups" at 14 miles. The aircraft landed at 21:30Z. The report notes the British Ministry of Aviation's lack of interest in publicizing such sightings.

German Military and UFOs

An article discusses the German Bundeswehr's stance on UFOs, questioning whether similar incidents are not reported or followed up. It suggests that German pilots might not be capable of accurately assessing such phenomena. The author recalls the crash of a Bundeswehr aircraft due to a collision with an American machine, implying that information regarding this incident was also not fully disclosed to the public. The article speculates that the same approach might be applied to the UFO topic, especially given its sensitive nature. It notes that the Bundeswehr reportedly monitors UFO reports with attention, primarily from a security perspective for the Federal Republic of Germany.

Book Reviews

Uli Thieme: "50 Jahre Roswell - Ein UFO Mythos stürzt ab"

This review praises Uli Thieme's self-published book for its in-depth research into the Roswell incident. Thieme reportedly relies on sworn affidavits from eyewitnesses, contemporary official documents, and translated press reports. The review suggests that the crashed object was not an interstellar spacecraft but likely a MOGUL balloon, a hypothesis supported by Thieme's analysis. The book also debunks hoaxes and research errors by CUFOS activists Randle/Smith. The reviewer commends Thieme for his clear argumentation and for shedding light on the US MOGUL project, which has not been extensively covered in German-language ufology.

Roland Horn: "Leben im Weltraum"

This review discusses Roland Horn's book, which explores the origins of life on Earth and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Horn takes the reader on an imaginary journey through the solar system and beyond, discussing radio astronomy, unmanned probe projects, the Hubble Telescope, and manned space programs. The review highlights Horn's exploration of the "Face on Mars" and his explanations for apparent lunar and Martian light flashes. The book is praised for its comprehensive information, engaging writing style, and inclusion of humor, making complex astronomical concepts accessible to lay readers.

Walter-Jörg Langbein: "Geheimnisse der Bibel"

This review covers Walter-Jörg Langbein's book, which examines the Bible for evidence of extraterrestrial visits. Langbein, who has a background in theology, argues that the Old Testament contains indications of visits by "astronaut gods." The book is described as a comprehensive exploration of biblical mysteries, not solely focused on aliens. It is presented as an affordable paperback with numerous photos, aiming to make the information accessible to a wide audience. The review notes that Langbein's work also touches upon other mysteries beyond the astronaut theory.

Walter-Jörg Langbein: "Ungelöste Rätsel unserer Welt"

This review discusses another book by Walter-Jörg Langbein, which presents a wide range of mysteries and secrets, including topics like "eternal life," "stone witnesses," "biblical miracles," "secret societies," "mysteries of the seas and lakes," "prehistoric visitors from space," "UFO secrets," and "life after death." The book is praised for its extensive use of photos and its engaging, informative style. Langbein is quoted as stating that he has spent over twenty years researching the "astronaut gods" theory and believes that Earth was visited by extraterrestrials thousands of years ago. He also notes that his research uncovered many mysteries unrelated to the astronaut theory, which he aimed to present in this book.

The Philosophy of Georg Friedrich Wilhelm Hegel

A section introduces the philosophy of Georg Friedrich Wilhelm Hegel, stating that the magazine will present his ideas to show that the philosophy discussed in DEGUFORUM is not entirely detached from reality and that its authors are in consensus with leading philosophers.

Physics and Cosmology: Hyperspace and Superstrings

Hyperspace and the Speed of Light

This section begins by questioning whether light speed is the fastest way to traverse space. It introduces the concept of "hyperspace" and suggests that new physics offers faster possibilities, including the manipulation of time and travel to parallel universes, concepts previously confined to science fiction. Dr. Michio Kaku, a Professor of Theoretical Physics, is introduced as an expert who can explain these scientific achievements understandably. The article recounts Kaku's childhood fascination with Albert Einstein's unfinished work on a unified field theory, which inspired him to pursue physics.

The Quest for a Unified Field Theory

Einstein's lifelong pursuit of a "unified field theory" aimed to unify all physical laws into a single theory. This quest also occupied other great thinkers like Werner Heisenberg and Wolfgang Pauli. The article suggests that the current scientific consensus is that a radical departure from previous approaches is needed to achieve such a theory.

Superstring Theory

The article introduces "Superstring Theory" as a potential candidate for this unified theory. It postulates that all matter and energy can be reduced to tiny vibrating "strings" in a 10-dimensional universe. Edward Witten is cited as a successor to Einstein who believes this theory will dominate physics for the next 50 years. The theory is explained using the analogy of a violin string, where different vibrations (harmonics) correspond to different subatomic particles (quanta). The universe, according to this theory, is a symphony of vibrating superstrings, and each vibrating string causes the surrounding spacetime to curve, mirroring Einstein's prediction.

10-Dimensional Hyperspace

A controversial prediction of Superstring Theory is the existence of a 10-dimensional universe. The article acknowledges that critics dismiss this as science fiction. It explains that while humans perceive three dimensions, mathematics can handle higher dimensions. The analogy of a Japanese tea garden is used to illustrate how beings in a lower dimension might perceive phenomena (like waves on water) without understanding the higher dimension from which they originate. The article suggests that adding more dimensions allows for a more comprehensive description of physical forces.

The Four Fundamental Forces

The article details the four fundamental forces that govern the universe: Gravitation, Electromagnetism, the strong nuclear force, and the weak nuclear force. It explains their roles, from holding planets in orbit to powering stars and enabling modern technology. The development of new mathematics, like Newton's laws of motion and Maxwell's equations for electromagnetism, was spurred by the understanding of these forces.

Unifying the Theories: Quantum Theory vs. General Relativity

Two major physical models, Quantum Theory and General Relativity, are presented as partially successful but fundamentally incompatible. Quantum Theory explains the microcosm and three forces (weak, strong, electromagnetic) through the exchange of energy packets (quanta). General Relativity, on the other hand, explains gravity and the macrocosm (galaxies, black holes) through the curvature of spacetime. The article highlights the difficulty in reconciling these two theories, describing it as a major problem in modern physics.

The Search for a Unified Theory

The article discusses the ongoing search for a "Theory of Everything" that would unify all four fundamental forces. It mentions the concept of a "super-kraft" (super-force) and suggests that the four forces might be manifestations of a deeper reality. The article posits that breakthroughs in understanding these forces have historically led to significant shifts in civilization.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly historical U.S. incidents, and the exploration of cutting-edge theoretical physics, with a strong emphasis on Superstring Theory and the quest for a unified field theory. The magazine also features book reviews that often touch upon ufology, ancient astronaut theories, and biblical mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting both official reports and alternative theories, while also debunking hoaxes and questionable claims. There's a clear interest in scientific explanations for phenomena, whether they are astronomical, physical, or historical.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated December 1997, presents a dual focus, exploring both a controversial technological claim and a deep dive into Hegelian philosophy.

Hegel's Philosophy: Absolute Idealism and the Spirit

The magazine dedicates significant space to an exposition of Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel's philosophical system. It begins by introducing Hegel's attempt to unify the philosophies of Fichte and Schelling through his concept of 'absolute idealism,' which he breaks down into three stages: the 'an-sich-Sein' (in-itself being), the 'Anders-Sein' (other-being), and the 'an-und-für-sich-Sein' (in-and-for-itself being).

These stages are further linked to Hegel's major works: the Philosophy of Logic for 'an-sich-Sein,' the Philosophy of Nature for 'Anders-Sein,' and the Philosophy of Spirit for 'an-und-für-sich-Sein.' The text clarifies that Hegel's concept of 'Geist' (Spirit) is not a personal entity but a dynamic, dialectical principle of the world. This Geist unfolds in three developmental stages:

1. Subjective Geist (Subjective Spirit): This stage deals with the life of the individual human being, where Geist becomes aware of itself. It represents the transition from being 'outside itself' to being 'for itself.'
2. Objective Geist (Objective Spirit): This stage encompasses the laws and spiritual structures that govern individuals, which Hegel terms 'ethics.' This includes family, society, the state, and history. The objective Geist is seen as superior to the subjective Geist, with the 'World Spirit' acting through individuals as its tools. This is where Hegel introduces the concept of the 'cunning of reason' (List der Vernunft), where individuals pursue their own goals, but ultimately serve the larger plan of the World Spirit.
3. Absolute Geist (Absolute Spirit): In this final stage, Geist returns entirely to itself, manifesting in art, religion, and philosophy. Here, subject and object achieve perfect harmony, and the absolute idea is reflected in its purest form.

The article explains Hegel's dialectical method, noting that his concepts of 'being' and 'nothing' lead to the concept of 'becoming' in nature, resolving the initial contradiction.

The Roswell Transistor Story: A Desinformation Hypothesis?

The second major section of the magazine investigates the controversial claim that the invention of the transistor was a direct result of the scientific analysis of extraterrestrial artifacts recovered from the alleged UFO crash near Roswell, New Mexico, in 1947. The article references Philip J. Corso's book, "The Day After Roswell," which posits that Corso, as head of the Foreign Technology Division of the U.S. Army in 1961, oversaw the reverse-engineering of Roswell artifacts, leading to technologies like integrated circuits, fiber optics, lasers, and super-strong fibers.

The article scrutinizes this claim, noting discrepancies in official accounts of the Roswell event and highlighting the lack of definitive proof. It explores the idea that the 'Roswell-Transistor Story' is a test of the credibility of Corso's book.

Several sources are cited to support the claim, including an anonymous "authority" from "American Computer Company" (ACC) who allegedly had direct knowledge of Bell Labs' extraterrestrial technology. This source suggests that the materials and research for the transistor came from the Roswell crash. The narrative also touches upon the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of John Morton, who was allegedly involved in the transistor project and had contact with extraterrestrial technology.

The article details the alleged timeline: the UFO was recovered, its technology was transferred to Bell Labs, and later, due to bureaucratic 'forgetfulness' and possible cover-ups, the technology was not returned to the Air Force. It suggests that AT&T benefited immensely from this technology, with government employees allegedly looking the other way.

The History of the Transistor: A Scientific Perspective

Complementing the conspiracy theory, the magazine provides a detailed account of the scientific development of the transistor. It traces the early theoretical work, including Julius Lilienfeld's 1926 patent for a field-effect transistor and Oscar Heil's 1934 patent for a current control arrangement. The article highlights the crucial role of semiconductor materials like germanium and silicon.

It describes the intensive research at Bell Labs in the late 1940s, focusing on the work of John Bardeen, Walter Brattain, and William Shockley. The breakthrough came with the observation of how electrical contacts on a germanium surface could influence current flow, leading to the development of the point-contact transistor. The article details the experimental process, including the use of fine needle points and gold contacts, and the eventual successful demonstration of amplification on December 23, 1947.

The narrative emphasizes the scientific rigor and the iterative process of discovery, contrasting it with the speculative nature of the Roswell story. It mentions the official recognition of Bardeen, Brattain, and Shockley with the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1956 for their work on semiconductors, though it also notes a claim that the transistor was discovered twenty years earlier by Julius Lilienfeld.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue presents a clear contrast between philosophical inquiry and speculative claims about technological origins. The philosophical section offers a structured explanation of Hegel's complex ideas, presenting them as a coherent system. The technological section, particularly the Roswell Transistor Story, leans heavily into conspiracy and questions official narratives, suggesting a deliberate cover-up of extraterrestrial influence on technological development. The magazine seems to present both perspectives, allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions, but the detailed scientific account of the transistor's invention provides a grounded counterpoint to the more sensational claims.

The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, exploring both established philosophical thought and controversial historical/technological narratives. The magazine aims to inform its readers about complex subjects, whether they be abstract philosophical concepts or debated historical events.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated December 1997, is the 16th issue of Volume Nr. 16. Published by DEGUFO e.V. (German-speaking Society for UFO Research), it is primarily in German and features an ISSN of 0946-1531. The cover headline is a holiday greeting from the editorial team wishing readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 1998.

Articles and Content

The Transistor and the Roswell Incident

The issue begins by questioning the official narrative of the transistor's invention. It references patents from the 1930s by Lilienfeld for Field-Effect Transistors (FETs) and subsequent patents for NPN and PNNP transistors. The author wonders if Lilienfeld's work, which functioned similarly, was overlooked or suppressed, especially if later patents led to Nobel Prizes. The article posits a controversial theory: What if the transistor was developed in 1897 by a secret society, and the 1947 story is a cover for alien technology from the Roswell crash? This theory is supported by references to 'The Day After Roswell' by Philip J. Corso and William J. Birnes, and other sources suggesting that Bell Labs' knowledge of the Roswell incident influenced transistor technology.

Political Culture and Mass Psychology

A significant portion of the magazine delves into the concept of 'political culture,' framed within the context of mass psychology. The author, presenting work from a political science seminar, argues that political elites often present a simplified or distorted view of reality to the public. They create 'political stages' where 'politics' are performed, using mass media to shape public belief. Drawing heavily on Gustave Le Bon's 'Psychologie der Massen,' the article explains how individuals in a crowd lose their critical thinking and become susceptible to demagoguery. Le Bon's theories suggest that history is often constructed through myths and legends, and that modern politics relies on 'staging' and 'images' rather than substantive policy, as noted by political scientist Thomas Meyer.

The article critiques the shift from asking 'why' to asking 'how,' arguing that this focus on rational empiricism has led to a materialistic worldview, devoid of consciousness or ethical values. Neuroscientist Wolf Singer is quoted stating that all brain functions are reducible to physics and biochemistry, further reinforcing this materialistic perspective. The author contends that this loss of self-direction leaves people reliant on external governance.

The Primacy of Economics and the Illusion of Democracy

The magazine criticizes the prevailing economic system, which it claims is based on speed, growth, and specialization. The author argues that unlimited growth is impossible and that the exponential rise in national debt will lead to the collapse of financial, economic, and political systems. The 'rational empiricism' that dominates science is seen as a flawed method that describes 'what happens' but doesn't explain 'why.' This leads to a situation where the public is lulled into a false sense of security by the illusion of democracy, while the 'real' politics and economic interests operate behind the scenes.

The article suggests that the current system, driven by economic logic, has failed to solve major problems, leading to environmental and societal catastrophes. It argues that politics, education, and even faith have been commodified, with 'economic efficiency' being the sole recognized reality. The author quotes Morris Berman on how mechanistic philosophy and the separation of value from fact influenced scientific academies and political campaigns.

Solutions and Perspectives

Despite the bleak outlook, the magazine suggests that democratic systems, if reformed, could be the best form of governance, echoing Le Bon's view on parliamentary assemblies. The author emphasizes the need for a more authentic understanding of reality and a shift from merely accumulating knowledge to 'philosophizing' – integrating knowledge into one's personal worldview. The article concludes by stating that the current political culture is fragile and relies on a false sense of security, which will eventually crumble if more credible 'staging' is not presented.

Editorial and Contact Information

The editorial staff includes Hans-Joachim Heyer (Editor-in-Chief), A. Haxel, F. Menhorn, R. Nühlen, W. Raab, and M. Ringmann. The magazine is produced using Pagemaker for Windows 5.0 and is published quarterly. Subscription prices are DM 30.- annually for domestic subscribers and DM 40.- for international subscribers. The magazine is available online via Compuserve and other internet addresses. The issue includes a list of sources and an explanation of the author's methodology, emphasizing the importance of developing a personal worldview.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the questioning of established scientific and historical narratives (particularly concerning the transistor and the Roswell incident), the critical analysis of political systems and mass manipulation through media and psychology, and the critique of economic rationalism's dominance. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official accounts, a concern about societal control through psychological and economic means, and a call for a deeper, more authentic understanding of reality and governance. The magazine promotes a UFO research perspective while engaging with broader socio-political and philosophical issues.