Deguforum - Issue 85 - 2015

Magazine Overview

DEGUFORUM, issue Nr. 85, Summer 2015, is the 22nd volume of the German-language UFO research journal published by DEGUFO e.V. The cover prominently features the headline "DIE KÖPENICKIADE DES RICHARD THEILMANN" and an interview with Ingbert Jüdt, the treasurer and secretary of DEGUFO. The issue also announces new book reviews and research into abductions.

Editorial and Collaborations

The editorial section, penned by Marius Kettmann, highlights significant developments in German UFO research, particularly the growing cooperation between DEGUFO, GEP, and MUFON-CES. This collaboration, solidified by a meeting in June 2015, aims to create a unified front for UFO research in Germany. Kettmann notes that while cooperation with CENAP was not possible, the relationship with MUFON-CES has strengthened, marking a historical moment. The issue includes a press release about this future cooperation, which will also be discussed at the DEGUFO members' meeting (MV) in Leverkusen on September 19, 2015. The editorial also touches upon the debunked 'secret UN meeting' rumor and previews the articles in this issue, including Ingbert Jüdt's analysis of the 'Bennewitz-Affäre,' a two-part article on John A. Keel, a series on the 'Law of Times,' and the ongoing 'Abduction Research' series.

Articles and Features

"Erstellung eines Modells über: „Das Gesetz der Zeiten" - Teil 3" by Julio Plaza del Olmo (translated by Roland M. Horn) delves into the technological factors influencing UFO sighting reports, analyzing the FOTOCAT and CUCO databases. The article examines how technology, such as cameras and image processing, affects the classification and temporal distribution of reported events, distinguishing between 'hoaxes,' 'accidental images,' and 'on-purpose images.' It explores geographical distributions and attempts to reconcile discrepancies between the two catalogs.

"Die Köpenickiade des Richard Theilmann" by Ingbert Jüdt investigates a case involving Richard Theilmann, who falsely claimed to be a US Navy officer and a source for disclosure efforts. The article details how Theilmann deceived researchers, particularly through the 'Open Minds Forum,' and how his deception was eventually uncovered by the 'Reality Uncovered' blog. Jüdt critically examines the role of wishful thinking and the 'fetishism of the official' in the exopolitics and disclosure movements, highlighting the importance of rigorous source criticism.

"Abduktionsforschung - Entführungserfahrungen / Teil 12: Forschungspraxis #3" by Jens Waldeck continues the series on abduction research, focusing on practical research methods.

"John A. Keel und die andere Seite des UFO-Phänomens - Teil 2" by Roland M. Horn explores the unconventional theories and approaches of the renowned UFO researcher John A. Keel.

Interview with Ingbert Jüdt: In this extensive interview, Ingbert Jüdt discusses his background, his critical approach to UFO research and anomalous phenomena, his involvement with DEGUFO as treasurer and secretary, and his views on exopolitics, disclosure, and the challenges of distinguishing between genuine research and ideological manipulation. He emphasizes the need for 'anomalistics' that moves beyond ideological skepticism and esoteric charlatanry. Jüdt also touches upon the 'Bennewitz-Affäre' and the potential for right-wing infiltration of the ufology and fringe science scenes.

"Diesseits der Denkverbote: Bausteine für eine reflexive UFO-Forschung" by Michael Schetsche and Andreas Anton (Hg.) is mentioned, with Ingbert Jüdt contributing articles on the Bennewitz-Affäre and exopolitics.

Reviews

The issue includes four book and media reviews:

• "Ergebnisse aus 40 Jahren UFO-Forschung" by Illobrand von Ludwiger, reviewed by Marius Kettmann.
• "Zauberer & Hexen / Phänomene" by WAS IST WAS (audiobook), reviewed by Marius Kettmann and Karina Kettmann.
• "Tagungsband der Forschungsgesellschaft für Archäologie, Astronautik und SETI - Bremen 2014", reviewed by Marius Kettmann.
• "Geheimnisvolle Flugobjekte UFOs, USOs und andere fliegende Rätsel" by Nadine Schneider and Martina Lohr, reviewed by Marius Kettmann.

DEGUFO Members' Meeting 2015

A detailed schedule for the DEGUFO members' meeting on September 19, 2015, in Leverkusen is provided. The agenda includes reports, discussions on the DEGUFORUM's future direction, case investigation practices, and future cooperation with MUFON-CES and the Generationsbibliothek.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the importance of inter-organizational cooperation in UFO research, the critical analysis of UFO-related claims and movements (particularly exopolitics and disclosure), and the need for rigorous methodology and source criticism. The editorial stance is one of promoting scientific rigor while remaining open to anomalous phenomena, advocating for a balanced approach that avoids both excessive skepticism and uncritical acceptance of unsubstantiated claims. The issue also addresses the potential for ideological manipulation within the UFO community.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, number 85, focuses on abduction research and related phenomena, with the main article titled "Abduktionsforschung - Entführungserfahrungen" by Jens Waldeck.

Part I: Summary

Jens Waldeck's article highlights that UFO research is predominantly based on natural sciences, but abduction research requires broader methodologies. He notes the expansion of research fields to sociology and cultural sciences, and introduces the concept of the 'maximal stranger' (Schetsche) and cognitive science insights from consciousness research (Wagemann) to guide the approach.

Part II: Ahead of the Curve

1. Scientific Rigor in Abduction Research

Waldeck discusses the evolution of UFO research, noting the emergence of different subcultures, including natural-scientific and spiritual-scientific orientations. He emphasizes the need for clarity and a scientific research agenda, acknowledging the increasing academic interest in the abduction phenomenon, citing works by André Kramer and Michael Schetsche. He also references Johannes Wagemann's work on brain and consciousness as a basis for dialogue with academic research.

2. Chatting with E.T.

This section touches upon the concept of inter-species communication, referencing Michael Schetsche's work and other authors who report experiences with animals like horses, wolves, dogs, dolphins, and whales. It poses the question of whether simple animal communication, like a cat's meow for food, constitutes inter-species communication.

3. Observing E.T.

Waldeck draws a parallel between scientific measurement and the human mind as a 'measuring device'. He introduces concepts like psychotechnics and consciousness technology, emphasizing the need to understand our own consciousness. He highlights Johannes Wagemann's dissertation, "Gehirn und menschliches Bewusstsein" (Brain and Human Consciousness), as a proposal for unifying these aspects and exploring what happens when human and alien consciousness interact, using terms like 'entanglement' and 'antimorphic action'.

Part III: The Extraterrestrial as the 'Maximal Stranger'

This section delves into the concept of the 'maximal stranger' as encountered in abduction phenomena. Michael Schetsche's work is cited, defining the 'maximal stranger' as a non-human entity that is recognized as a potentially equivalent communication partner, possessing basic attributes like self-awareness, intentionality, and a willingness to communicate.

1. On the Concept of the 'Maximal Stranger'

Schetsche's definition, developed with a group of scientists, describes the 'maximal stranger' as a distinguishable entity that is non-human but treated as a potentially equal partner. It can possess partial compatibility of sensory and communication channels, a rudimentary self-awareness, intentional action capabilities, and a willingness to communicate. The extent of interaction can vary, and the ontological status (real, hypothetical, transcendent, or fictional) can also differ.

2. From Quantitative Measurement to Qualitative Observation

Waldeck contrasts quantitative measurement with qualitative observation, suggesting that in fields like consciousness research, qualitative terms are used. He likens consciousness to a telescope that needs to be 'set' or focused using concepts. He notes that while a telescope cannot observe itself, consciousness can, leading to a self-referential loop that challenges scientific study. He emphasizes the need for paradox-free theories, referencing Wagemann's work on making consciousness accessible to empirical science.

3. Practical Setting and Theme

Waldeck discusses the importance of a clear research focus. For abductees, self-experience is central, but can lead to subjective biases. He suggests that while shared experiences might create a 'subculture', it may lack scientific rigor. He highlights the challenge of avoiding subjective involvement when studying traumatic experiences.

4. The 'Maximal Stranger' in Model-Dependent Realism

This section connects themes of consciousness, setting, and reality. Waldeck explains that in model-dependent realism, reality is co-constituted by models. He notes that the consciousness of the abductee and the alien plays a significant role in inter-species contact, making the 'naive observer' principle insufficient.

Part IV: On the Trail of the Aliens

This section explores how UFO researchers often follow forensic methods, similar to TV shows like CSI. It discusses the use of forensic psychiatry and profiling. The concept of 'Integral UFO Research' is introduced, advocating for a pluralistic approach to methods.

Part V: Working with Concepts

Waldeck reviews the use of concepts in science, from quantitative number-based concepts in natural sciences to qualitative structures in psychology and sociology. He notes that the binary number system can express both quantitative and qualitative comparisons.

1. Phenomenal Equivalence

This section discusses the functional similarities between physical measuring devices and consciousness, suggesting that this equivalence allows for a more intuitive understanding for natural scientists.

Part VI: Outlook

This section briefly touches upon the idea of deconstructing and reconstructing phenomena, drawing parallels to children's toys like LEGO and modern computer software. It mentions Herbert Witzenmann's structural phenomenology.

Part VII: Literature

A list of cited literature is provided, including works by Roland Barthes, Stephen Hawking, Husserl, Kramer, Schetsche, Schieren, Tellkampf, Wagemann, and Waldenfels.

John A. Keel and the Other Side of UFO Phenomena - Part 2

Roland M. Horn's article delves into John A. Keel's theories. It discusses infrasound, its effects on humans and animals, and its potential connection to UFO phenomena. Keel's concept of the 'superspectrum' is explored, which includes phenomena beyond conventional physics, such as levitation, gravity anomalies, and 'black streams'. The article also touches upon the psychological aspects of UFO encounters, linking them to possession, mediumship, and the concept of 'negative love' as a product of negative human emotions.

Keel's work is presented as a counterpoint to the 'Ethical Technology' (ETH) theory, suggesting that UFOs are not necessarily extraterrestrial spacecraft but manifestations within a broader spectrum of reality. The article references Keel's books, "Our Haunted Planet" and "John A. Keel and the Stone of Wisdom."

Review: "Results from 40 Years of UFO Research" by Illobrand von Ludwiger

Marius Kettmann reviews Illobrand von Ludwiger's book, which chronicles his 40 years in UFO research. The review highlights Ludwiger's early UFO sighting, his involvement with NICAP, and his collaborations. It discusses his critical stance on other researchers and organizations, particularly the MUFON-CES split. The review notes Ludwiger's attempt to redefine terms like UAP and MiB, and questions the scientific rigor and objectivity of some of his claims. It also points out potential inconsistencies and a lack of critical self-reflection in the book.

Review: "Magical Creatures & Phenomena" by Karina and Marius Kettmann

This review discusses a "WAS IST WAS" audio CD featuring two topics: "Magical Creatures & Phenomena" and "Phenomena." The review criticizes the first part for its superficial treatment of topics like witchcraft and the second part for its inaccurate portrayal of UFOs, linking them directly to aliens and presenting them as a matter of belief. It notes the lack of detailed sources and the tendency to group disparate topics like esotericism and cryptozoology. While acknowledging some well-explained sections, like photo-falsification, the review concludes that the CD lacks the necessary rigor for educational material on UFOs.

Review: "Symposium Proceedings of the Research Society for Archaeology, Astronautics and SETI - Bremen 2014"

This review of the AAS symposium proceedings highlights the parallels between modern UFO phenomena and pre-astronautics. It notes that while pre-astronautics focuses on myths and legends, UFO research is increasingly open to these connections. The review mentions specific articles on 'Greys in Antiquity' by Mario Rank, and Erich von Däniken's updated views on the connection between paleo-SETI and UFO phenomena, referencing events like Rendlesham Forest and the Phoenix Lights. It suggests that the book could serve as a starting point for further research.

Upcoming in the Next Issue

The next issue of DEGUFORUM will feature an interview with Christian Czech, the 2nd Chairman of DEGUFO, discussing his views and visions for German UFO research. It will also include a reportage on a CNES workshop in France led by Dr. Jacques Vallée, focusing on UFO data archiving and systematization, and a section on 'Sightings' compiled by Christian Czech, reviewing spectacular UFO cases reported to DEGUFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific and methodological challenges in abduction research, the exploration of consciousness and its role in perception, the concept of the 'maximal stranger' as a framework for understanding alien encounters, and the historical development of UFO research. The editorial stance appears to favor a multi-disciplinary and rigorous approach to ufology, while also acknowledging the speculative and sometimes controversial nature of the subject matter. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between scientific inquiry and unsubstantiated claims or beliefs.