Delve Report - 1995 01 - January

Magazine Overview

Title: DELVE REPORT
Issue Date: January 1995
Volume: 1995
Issue Identifier: P.2-3
Publisher: DELVE REPORT
Country of Publication: Canada
Language: English

This issue of DELVE REPORT, published in January 1995, explores a range of topics including the search for extraterrestrial life, the implications of microchip implants, the history of mind control experiments, and the potential threat of emerging viruses.

Articles

Of Planets, Creatures, and Things

This article, by Don Shoemaker, begins by referencing the Kansas state motto "ad astra per aspera" (to the stars through difficulties) and connects it to the public's fascination with the possibility of life beyond Earth. It discusses the recent discovery of two planets orbiting a pulsar, PSR B1257+12, in the constellation Virgo, suggesting that if these planets exist, others are likely to as well. The author expresses a preference for using machines rather than humans for space exploration, citing the high cost of flying and the potential dangers. The piece concludes with a call for mankind to take a "giant step" towards space, perhaps on a treadmill in an exercise room.

The Future's 'Foolproof' ID

Reprinted from The Informer by Frank Allnutt, this article discusses President Clinton's promise to revolutionize the healthcare industry with a "Smart Card." This card would consolidate health data, replace credit cards and cash, and use a universal account number. However, it raises concerns about the implications if such a card is lost, stolen, or rendered unusable. The article then shifts to the "Implantable Biochip," a technology already being used for animals, which is about the size of a grain of rice and implanted under the skin. It is marketed by Infopet and costs about $4.50 per unit. The biochip uses radio transponders for foolproof identification and can be used to locate lost pets. The article speculates that this technology could eventually contain a person's Social Security number, health records, financial information, and more. It also mentions the "KIDSCAN" system for locating lost children and the potential for future biochips made from living protein. The author expresses concern that these implants could be the "mark of the beast" as described in the Book of Revelation, enabling a sophisticated surveillance system and control over who can buy or sell.

Cosmic Carl

This article by Ben Dobbin of the Associated Press features an interview with Carl Sagan. Sagan suggests that if extraterrestrials exist, they would not resemble the "monstrosities on Star Trek." He notes that organic molecules, essential for life, appear to be widespread in the solar system, implying that life and intelligence could be common. However, he believes that alien beings would likely not bear any physical resemblance to humans, even if the Earth's history were replayed identically. Sagan emphasizes the importance of scientific skepticism combined with mental agility and a flair for explanation. He discusses his book "Pale Blue Dot," which visualizes humanity's future in space and the necessity of settling other worlds. Sagan also addresses UFOs, stating that while he would be interested in evidence of extraterrestrial visitation, he demands reasonable standards of proof and warns against confusing reality with hopes and fears.

Did Earth Counterattack with Virus?

This piece by David Suzuki discusses Richard Preston's book "The Hot Zone," which details the outbreak of deadly filoviruses like Ebola and Marburg. The article highlights how increasing human populations and global travel create a larger target for infectious agents. It explains how viruses can exchange genetic material between different species, leading to new combinations, and cites HIV as an example of a virus that jumped from monkeys to humans. The author notes that "The Hot Zone" documents the rapid dispersal of filoviruses, which are transmitted by direct contact with blood, and warns that a mutant strain spread by cough could be an epidemiological nightmare. The article also touches on the human element in crisis situations, referencing the initial reluctance of authorities to disclose facts during the Ebola outbreak. Preston's warning is presented: emerging viruses are surfacing from ecologically damaged areas, and the Earth may be mounting an immune response against human overpopulation.

Brainwashing Realities Are Terrifying Enough

This section reviews two books: "The Monkey-Puzzle Tree" by Elizabeth Nickson and "The Hot Zone" (mentioned again in relation to its fictionalized aspects). The review focuses on "The Monkey-Puzzle Tree," which fictionalizes the story of Dr. Ewan Cameron's mind control experiments conducted in the 1950s and 1960s. The CIA allegedly used Canadian patients at the Allen Memorial Institute for these experiments, which involved drugging, electroshock, and lobotomy, under the pretext of curing mental illnesses. Nine patients later received a settlement from the CIA. The novel tells three stories: that of the protagonist-narrator Catherine, her mother Victoria (a subject of the experiments), and the recounting of the lawsuit. The reviewer notes that while the book is well-written, it wishes the focus had been more on the terror and devastating effects of the experiments and the subsequent government cover-ups, rather than on the documentary aspects of the lawsuit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DELVE REPORT revolve around the intersection of technology, control, and the unknown. There is a strong undercurrent of skepticism towards advancing technologies like microchips and smart cards, with a particular focus on their potential for surveillance and the erosion of personal privacy, often framed within a religious context (the "the mark of the beast." The magazine also explores the scientific search for extraterrestrial life, balanced with a critical view of unsubstantiated claims. The potential threat of biological agents and the darker aspects of human experimentation (mind control) are also highlighted, suggesting a critical and cautionary editorial stance on societal progress and the potential for misuse of power and technology.