Deguforum - Issue 19 - 1998

Magazine Overview

This issue of DEGUFORUM, the journal of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research, is the 19th issue of its 5th year, dated September 1998. It features a cover headline posing the question "UFOs: Still an Unsolved Riddle?" and includes a striking cover image of a flying saucer above a jet. The issue is priced at DM 7.50.

Standpoint: What is DEGUFO?

Andreas Haxel, the press officer for DEGUFO, addresses the question of the organization's identity, activities, and goals. Founded in 1993, DEGUFO comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds united by an interest in UFOs. The organization views the UFO phenomenon not in isolation, but as part of a broader societal context, touching upon questions of space, time, and the human condition. DEGUFO aims to provide clarification and engage with the UFO topic in a factual, critical, and unbiased manner, recognizing its connection to consciousness.

Haxel also discusses the nature of scientific inquiry, suggesting that true research thrives in environments where questions are encouraged, rather than stifled by predetermined answers. He posits that the UFO topic, being one area where science's existence is not yet fully established, offers a space for genuine speculation and personal exploration. He draws a parallel between programming a computer and programming the human brain with theories, suggesting that our perception of reality is shaped by the theories we adopt.

Standpoint: UFOs: Still an Unsolved Riddle?

Andreas Haxel further explores the enduring mystery of UFOs. He highlights the common fascination with the vastness of the universe and the question of whether humanity is alone. Recent scientific findings suggest that life could have emerged elsewhere, and the discovery of new planets fuels the possibility of extraterrestrial civilizations. Haxel touches upon the concept of 'warp drive' and gravity manipulation as potential future technologies, drawing parallels to the possibility of alien spacecraft visiting Earth.

He notes that historical accounts and myths often describe encounters with unknown aerial objects, which were often interpreted as divine or religious phenomena due to a lack of scientific explanation. The modern term 'flying saucers' became popularized by Kenneth Arnold's description in 1947. Haxel argues that many UFO sightings are now more readily reported because the idea of UFOs is prevalent in popular culture.

The article emphasizes that while many UFO sightings can be explained as natural phenomena, misidentifications, or even deliberate deceptions, a core of unexplained cases remains. The challenge for UFO research lies in evaluating the credibility of witnesses and the evidence presented, a process complicated by the subjective nature of experiences like alleged alien abductions. Haxel concludes that despite decades of research, the UFO phenomenon remains an unsolved riddle.

Leserbrief

Walter-Jörg Langbein writes in response to an article by Reinhard Nühlen about the Roswell incident. Langbein congratulates Nühlen on his thorough research, which he believes effectively refutes the 'Mogul explanation' for the Roswell event. He criticizes a certain Mr. Thieme for questioning Nühlen's findings without providing counter-evidence, labeling such claims as poor journalism. Langbein asserts that the Roswell 'myth' is far from debunked and that rigorous research, like Nühlen's, is essential to solving the mystery. He also extends condolences to the DEGUFO on the passing of Gerhard Cerven, whom he remembers as a competent, collegial, and friendly colleague.

Presseschau: Scientists are on the Trail of UFOs

This section reports on a gathering of nine scientists, initiated by Laurance S. Rockefeller, who convened to investigate the UFO phenomenon. Led by Professor Peter Sturrock, the group discussed numerous UFO cases presented by UFO researchers. The panel concluded that the UFO phenomenon is scientifically existent, although they could not identify the nature of these phenomena. They stated that unexplained physical phenomena exist and committed to further study.

The scientists outlined key takeaways: the UFO problem is complex with no simple answer; studying unexplained observations can lead to new scientific knowledge; research should focus on cases with substantial independent physical evidence; contact between the UFO community and scientists could be productive; and institutional support for UFO research is desirable. The article notes the growing acceptance of UFO research, suggesting that scientists may fear less for their reputation when investigating the topic.

Peter Sturrock proposed a schema of hypotheses for UFOs, ranging from 'swindle' and 'known phenomena' to 'unknown natural phenomena' and 'extraterrestrial technology.' Sturrock emphasized the importance of scientists' openness and willingness to investigate these phenomena, acknowledging that different cases require different levels of analysis.

Book Reviews (Buchbesprechung)

This section features several book reviews:

• "Wie die Untertassen fliegen lernten – Ein Mythos bahnt sich seinen Weg" by Roland M. Horn: Horn's book is reviewed as a comprehensive analysis of the UFO phenomenon, considering psychological aspects and tracing the myth of flying saucers back to Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting. The review suggests that many cases can be explained by conventional means, such as stealth bombers or ultralight aircraft, and that the 'extraterrestrial hypothesis' is not well-supported by evidence. Horn's work reportedly concludes that most UFO phenomena are not as grave as they seem and that plausible explanations exist for recent sightings.

• "Die UFO-Connection - Was verheimlichen Regierungen, Wissenschaft und Militärs?" by Andreas von Retyi: (Details not provided in the scan).

• "Faszination Mars" by Mark Carlotto: (Details not provided in the scan).

• "Geheimakte Archäologie - Unterdrückte Entdeckungen, verschollene Schätze, bizarre Funde" by Luc Bürgin: (Details not provided in the scan).

• "An den Grenzen unseres Wissens - Band 2" edited by Thomas Mehner: (Details not provided in the scan).

• "Der Wiedergänger – Das zeitlose Leben des Grafen von Saint-Germain" by Peter Krassa: (Details not provided in the scan).

• "Die Titanic wird sinken - und andere Vorhersagen und Vorfälle aus der Welt den Übersinnlichen" by Ernst Meckelburg: (Details not provided in the scan).

• "Konstruktion der Wirklichkeit - Teil 2" by Berger/Luckmann: (Details not provided in the scan).

• "Käufliche Wissenschaft - Experten im Dienst von Industrie und Politik" edited by Antje Bultmann / Friedemann Schmithals: (Details not provided in the scan).

The review of Horn's book elaborates on the 'extraterrestrial hypothesis,' suggesting that interstellar travel would take immense time, making frequent visits unlikely. It also dismisses the 'parallel dimensions' and 'time travel' hypotheses as speculative. The review mentions that phenomena like ball lightning and earth lights might be misinterpreted as UFOs, and that some religious interpretations link UFOs to demonic activity. Horn's analysis of abduction cases suggests they are often subjective experiences, influenced by cultural and psychological factors, rather than literal encounters with extraterrestrials. He concludes that evidence for alien abductions is weak and that these experiences can be explained by psychological phenomena.

Thema Zeit: What is Time?

This section features an article by A. Haxel exploring the fundamental question of what time truly is. (Further details not visible in the scan).

Neues aus der Wissenschaft: Must the History of Human Development be Rewritten?

This section presents several scientific news items:

• The secret of charcoal.
• The oldest human footprint discovered.
• Homo sapiens existed 1.3 million years ago.
• A 72,000-year-old settlement excavated.
• (Further details not visible in the scan).

Nachruf: Gerhard Cerven Remembered

A tribute to Gerhard Cerven by R. Nühlen, remembering him as a competent, collegial, and friendly individual. (Further details not visible in the scan).

Impressum

Provides publication details for DEGUFORUM Nr. 19, September 1998.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the UFO phenomenon, its scientific investigation, and its cultural and psychological implications. There's a strong emphasis on critical analysis, distinguishing between myth and verifiable fact, and exploring the subjective aspects of human experience in relation to the unexplained. The editorial stance, as articulated by Andreas Haxel, is one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging speculation and personal exploration within a scientific framework, while also acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the potential for disinformation.

The magazine promotes a balanced approach, seeking to clarify the UFO topic rather than sensationalize it. It highlights the importance of rigorous research, the evaluation of evidence, and the role of consciousness in shaping our perception of reality. The inclusion of diverse topics, from the nature of time to scientific discoveries about human evolution, suggests a broader interest in the frontiers of knowledge and the unexplained aspects of existence.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated September 1998, focuses on a critical examination of the UFO phenomenon, particularly through book reviews and analyses. The main cover headline is 'Buchvorstellung' (Book Presentation), indicating a strong emphasis on literature related to the topic.

Book Reviews and Analyses

Roland Horn's "UFO-Entführungsopfer" (UFO Abductees)

The issue extensively reviews Roland Horn's work, which explores the psychological similarities between UFO abduction experiences and symptoms of schizophrenia. Horn aims to explain these phenomena without labeling abductees as mentally ill, suggesting that internal conflicts and subconscious imagery can manifest as external UFO experiences. He posits that factors like anxiety about global destruction, coupled with a hope for a better world, can lead to hallucinatory experiences triggered by unusual events. Hypnosis, he argues, can help abductees recall these altered states of consciousness, leading to the description of UFO encounters.

Horn also critiques the UFO cult phenomenon, warning against groups like the Ashtar-Sheran Movement and the Uranius Foundation, which he claims exploit followers. He identifies a 'schizophrenic and paranoid flight response' within these movements and warns of the danger to psychologically vulnerable individuals, particularly youth, who are easily influenced by sensational stories of extraterrestrial contact. Horn suggests that even established authors sometimes uncritically publish dubious UFO accounts, driven by commercial interests.

Andreas von Retyi's "Die UFO-Connection"

Andreas von Retyi's book is presented as an investigation into government, scientific, and military secrecy surrounding UFOs. The review highlights Retyi's exploration of alleged UFO crash incidents, including the 1947 Roswell event, and the controversial MJ-12 documents. The book also delves into mysterious deaths and mutilations linked to UFO phenomena, such as the 'Varginha case' in Brazil, and the suspicious death of James V. Forrestal, former US Secretary of Defense.

Lars A. Fischinger's "Bevor die UFOs kamen..." (Before the UFOs Came...)

This book examines ancient 'god myths' and medieval legends about 'otherworlders,' suggesting connections to UFO phenomena and the modern Paleo-Seti hypothesis. Fischinger compares historical accounts with modern UFO research, concluding that humanity has been interacting with an unknown intelligence for centuries.

Mark Carlotto's "Faszination Mars" (Fascination Mars)

Carlotto's book is reviewed as a scientific analysis of the 'Face on Mars' and other formations in the Cydonia region. The author, holding a doctorate in electrical engineering, uses scientific methods to argue that the Mars face is likely artificial, presenting detailed computer analyses and 3D stereoscopic images.

Luc Bürgin's "Geheimakte Archäologie" (Secret File Archaeology)

Bürgin's book investigates controversial archaeological discoveries, focusing on the 'Burrows' Cave' controversy. It details allegations of stolen gold artifacts and hidden treasures, presenting documents and financial records that suggest a cover-up involving Swiss bank accounts. The book explores a subterranean tunnel system in Illinois, allegedly containing sarcophagi and numerous artifacts.

Thomas Mehner (Ed.)'s "An den Grenzen unseres Wissens - Band 2" (At the Limits of Our Knowledge - Volume 2)

This is a collection of articles by 'amateur researchers' who explore topics beyond mainstream science. The review praises the compilation for providing a platform for unconventional research, covering subjects like flying saucers over Iraq, ancient technologies, and historical enigmas.

Peter Krassa's "Der Wiedergänger - Das zeitlose Leben des Grafen von Saint-Germain" (The Reincarnated - The Timeless Life of Count of Saint-Germain)

Krassa's book is lauded as a comprehensive and well-researched work on the enigmatic Count of Saint-Germain. The reviewer highlights Krassa's extensive source studies and journalistic approach, presenting the book as a compelling and informative read.

Ernst Meckelburg's "Die Titanic wird sinken...und andere Vorhersagen und Vorfälle aus der Welt den Übersinnlichen" (The Titanic Will Sink...and Other Predictions and Incidents from the World of the Supernatural)

Meckelburg's book explores premonitions and predictions related to the Titanic disaster, citing cases documented by psychiatrist Ian Stevenson. It also examines a novel written fourteen years before the Titanic's sinking that eerily predicted the event. The book further delves into telepathy, clairvoyance, poltergeist phenomena, and communication with the deceased.

Berger/Luckmann's "Die gesellschaftliche Konstruktion der Wirklichkeit" (The Social Construction of Reality) - Part 2

This section continues the theoretical discussion of Berger and Luckmann's work, exploring concepts of time and space as social constructs. It posits that our perception of reality, including time and space, is shaped by our theories and mental frameworks, and that the 'present' is the only truly existing dimension. The discussion extends to the idea that our minds construct reality, and that shared consciousness allows for the creation of a common understanding of the world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UFO phenomena, the psychological aspects of belief and perception, and the potential for deception and exploitation within UFO-related communities and literature. The magazine adopts a generally skeptical yet open-minded stance, encouraging readers to critically evaluate claims and distinguishing between well-researched investigations and sensationalized accounts. There is a clear emphasis on separating factual reporting from speculative theories and warning against the dangers of cult-like adherence to any belief system, including those centered around UFOs.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated September 1998, is titled 'Buchvorstellung' (Book Presentation) and focuses on the 'Thema Zeit' (Topic Time). It features a comprehensive review and discussion of several books and theories related to philosophy, science, and metaphysics, particularly examining the nature of reality, consciousness, time, and space.

Book Presentation: The Construction of Reality and Science

The main article, presented as a book review, critically examines the work of sociologists Niklas Luhmann, Berger, and Luckmann. It highlights their concept of the 'social construction of reality,' which posits that society constructs reality through symbolic interaction. The reviewer, Hans-Joachim Heyer, argues that this construction extends beyond societal perceptions to the very physical world, suggesting that 'world creators' actively shape reality down to the most fundamental physical levels. Heyer criticizes the prevailing materialistic worldview in science, which he believes deliberately ignores the role of consciousness and a guiding will behind existence, opting instead for explanations based on blind natural laws and 'homo oeconomicus.'

Critique of Scientific Paradigms

Heyer outlines several 'falsifications' within established scientific thought:

1. Wave-Particle Duality: He argues that physicists deny the non-temporality and non-locality of the wave aspect of light, resorting to analogies like water waves that do not accurately represent light's behavior. He posits that light is wave-like when unobserved and particle-like when observed, suggesting a role for the observer.
2. Neuroscience and Consciousness: While acknowledging that brain activity creates perceptions of the external world, Heyer criticizes the scientific community's inability to explain consciousness itself, often dismissing the question as unanswerable.
3. Questioning Space and Time: The reviewer criticizes the tendency to remain at the level of phenomena, asking 'what' rather than 'why.' He argues that explanations for micro-level phenomena are sought in the micro-level itself, failing to address the fundamental causes of phenomena.
4. Quantum Theory and the Observer: The interaction with the experimenter in quantum theory is often ignored, with the observer being eliminated through concepts like the 'uncertainty principle.'
5. Energy as Difference: Heyer points out that energy in the physical world is only a difference, questioning why science doesn't explore the source of this energy. He questions why consciousness is not considered a fundamental aspect of our cosmos.
6. Cosmology and Expansion: Despite Einstein's findings that space and time emerged with matter, the Big Bang and expansion theories persist, partly due to their utility in supporting evolutionary theory. Heyer questions the concept of an expanding space.
7. The Role of 'World Creators': The issue suggests that 'world creators' (or a conscious will) actively shape reality, and science, by focusing on observable phenomena and deterministic processes, fails to detect this influence. The scientific method is seen as a tool used by these creators to maintain their control.

The Philosophy of Will vs. Determinism

Heyer contrasts three philosophies: the philosophy of reason (science), the philosophy of will, and the philosophy of chance. He argues that science, based on reason, has become entangled with chance, undermining its deterministic claims. He advocates for the philosophy of will, asserting that will is not determined and allows for the definition of goals and values, with reason then serving to achieve them. He believes that scientifically minded individuals, lacking a guiding will, are easily manipulated by those who possess it.

Consciousness and Hierarchy

The issue delves into the concept of consciousness, proposing a hierarchy of consciousnesses, with a 'highest consciousness' influencing lower ones. Consciousness is defined as the ability to observe and recognize one's own reflection, transcending paradoxes and understanding one's place in this hierarchy. Ignorance and evil are attributed to a lack of consciousness.

Time and Space: A Deeper Look

Several articles explore the nature of time and space, challenging conventional understanding.

What is Time?

This section discusses the concept of time, drawing from quantum physics and the idea of universal determinism. It suggests that the present moment is where the symmetry of past and future is broken, and observation (measurement) plays a crucial role in defining physical properties. The concept of time is linked to the observer's interaction with the system, leading to a sense of temporal directionality, but not an objective one. The idea of a continuous flow of time is questioned, with the 'now' being the only temporal reality.

The Stuff Time is Made Of

This part of the discussion touches upon the idea that the universe might be a 'sculpture of pure absence' or 'self-organizing emptiness.' It posits that the universe cannot be non-existent because it has no complement to non-existence. The fundamental structure of the universe is suggested to be based on a binary logic, with 'points' as the most basic elements.

The Protostructure and Dimensions

The concept of a 'protostructure' is introduced, based on a binary logic of 'point' and 'non-point.' This structure is seen as the foundation for space and time. The issue explores the geometry of the immeasurable, suggesting that dimensions arise from the relationships between points. It proposes a six-dimensional universe (three spatial, three temporal) or a four-dimensional spacetime, depending on how one defines the relationship between space and time. The analogy of a two-dimensional ant on a sphere is used to illustrate how a being might perceive a curved space as flat, and how the third dimension (which the ant cannot perceive) might be analogous to time for us.

The Geometry of the Non-Measurable

This section further elaborates on the geometric concepts, discussing how angles and distances are perceived and measured. It introduces the idea of infinitesimal quantities and non-standard numbers in mathematics, which are difficult to grasp or measure directly. The relationship between points, lines, and angles is explored to understand spatial dimensions.

Our Universe's Shape

Using the analogy of a two-dimensional ant on a sphere, the issue speculates on the shape of our universe. It suggests that our three-dimensional space might be the curved surface of a four-dimensional hypersphere. This would mean the universe is finite yet unbounded, and its 'flatness' is an illusion due to our limited perspective. The concept of time is then presented as the dimension that allows for this curvature, analogous to how the third dimension allows the ant to perceive the curvature of its two-dimensional world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around a critique of mainstream scientific materialism and a call for a more holistic understanding that incorporates consciousness, will, and potentially a guiding intelligence behind reality. The editorial stance appears to favor philosophical and metaphysical interpretations that challenge established scientific paradigms, particularly in physics and cosmology. There is a strong emphasis on the subjective nature of perception and the limitations of purely objective, materialistic approaches to understanding existence. The issue advocates for exploring concepts beyond the strictly empirical, suggesting that true understanding may lie in cognitive recognition rather than empirical proof.

DEGUFORUM, Issue 19, September 1998, is a German-language publication from the DEGUFO e.V. (German-speaking Society for UFO Research). The issue features a mix of scientific articles, book reviews, and news items related to archaeology, human origins, and the nature of reality, alongside a tribute to a deceased member.

Articles

The Mystery of Charcoal

This article, authored by Matthias Glaubrecht, discusses the ongoing debate about the earliest settlement of Australia by Aborigines. Initially, the belief was that Aborigines arrived more recently, but archaeological finds, including tools and rock art, have pushed back the estimated date of settlement. Early dating methods suggested settlement around 10,000 years ago, later revised to 60,000 years. In 1996, anthropologist Richard Fullagar proposed dates up to 176,000 years based on thermoluminescence dating of sediments near the Ord River. However, a re-dating by Richard Roberts and his team using conventional methods, including radiocarbon dating, suggested an age of around 22,000 years for the oldest layers at Jinmium. This discrepancy is attributed to potential sediment re-layering. Despite this, indirect evidence from Lake George in New South Wales, indicating increased wildfires 130,000 years ago, and findings on the Indonesian island of Flores suggesting Homo erectus presence 700,000 years ago, imply that early human migration to Australia would have required sophisticated seafaring capabilities, suggesting advanced cognitive abilities like language and navigation.

The Concept of Time

Written by Andreas Haxel, this article explores the nature of time and reality through a geometric model. Haxel proposes a four-dimensional universe where time is an additional dimension. He likens three-dimensional spaces to layers of an onion, each representing the universe at a specific point in time. Movement in a three-dimensional space is seen as movement in time, with time being a compensation effect of the curvature of space. In this four-dimensional framework, there is no spatial or temporal distance, meaning all times and places are simultaneously accessible. This concept is linked to the holistic nature of the universe as a single information system, described by a wave function that includes the observer. The article touches upon the Everett-Wheeler interpretation (Many-Worlds Interpretation) of quantum mechanics, suggesting that all possibilities actually occur and that time travel paradoxes are thus excluded. The 'Onion Universe' is presented as the universe of quantum mechanics, and our perception of a three-dimensional reality with linear time is an extrapolation described by a function of consciousness.

Book Review: "Käufliche Wissenschaft" (Commercial Science)

This review, by Hans-Joachim Heyer, discusses the book "Käufliche Wissenschaft" by Antje Bultmann and Friedemann Schmithals. The book critically examines how scientists can be influenced by their financial backers, leading to the manipulation or suppression of research findings. The review highlights examples concerning the dangers of nuclear energy, dioxins, AIDS-infected blood, wood preservatives, and genetic engineering, which the authors claim are systematically downplayed. Heyer expresses shock at the extent of these "grand crimes," where individuals are rewarded rather than punished for actions that harm humanity. He criticizes a system that prioritizes economic gain over human well-being, likening it to a modern form of slavery and a competitive race for wealth. The book is recommended for those who are not fully engrossed in this competitive mindset and can maintain a critical perspective.

Obituary: Gerhard Cerven

This section, written by Reinhard Nühlen, is a tribute to Gerhard Cerven, the Vice Chairman of DEGUFO e.V., who passed away in June 1998. Nühlen recounts his initial disbelief and shock at the news of Cerven's death, describing him as a friendly, helpful, jovial, and witty individual. He clarifies that Cerven's death was not financially motivated, refuting claims that he was personally responsible for any deficit at a DEGUFO event. The article details Cerven's significant role in the founding of DEGUFO e.V. in 1993 and his active participation. It also mentions his professional background as a naval officer (Kapitänleutnant der Reserve) and a business graduate (Diplomkaufmann). Cerven was respected in UFO circles for his knowledgeable and critical contributions. The piece concludes with a message of condolence to his family and a statement of gratitude and respect for his life and contributions to the organization.

News Briefs

Homo sapiens appeared 1.3 million years ago

Fossil remains found in Eritrea by Ernesto Abbate and colleagues suggest that Homo sapiens may have emerged about 1.3 million years ago, approximately 300,000 years earlier than previously thought. The fossils represent a transitional form between Homo erectus and modern Homo sapiens.

72,000-year-old settlement excavated

Archaeologists in Bulgaria have unearthed a 72,000-year-old settlement in a cave near Plewen. The site, used from the Neanderthal era into the Middle Ages, yielded unique artifacts, including a plate with engraved peacock heads and geometric figures.

Oldest human footprint discovered

Scientists in South Africa have reportedly found traces of Homo sapiens dating back 117,000 years, potentially even double that age, which would be the oldest human footprints discovered to date. Further verification using more precise methods is planned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The DEGUFORUM consistently explores the intersection of scientific inquiry, particularly in fields like archaeology and physics, with unexplained phenomena, primarily UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical examination, valuing evidence-based research while remaining open to unconventional theories. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of scientific integrity, as highlighted in the book review, and a commitment to fostering a community for those interested in these subjects, as evidenced by the tribute to Gerhard Cerven and the details about DEGUFO e.V.