Doubt - No 31

Magazine Overview

Title: doubt
Issue: Whole Number 31
Volume: Vol. II
Date: 1931 A D = the year 1 FS (interpreted as 1931)
Publisher: The Fortean Society
Country: USA
Price: 35c. / 2/- in Great Britain

This issue of 'doubt', the Fortean Society Magazine, edited by Tiffany Thayer, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena and critiques societal norms and scientific authority. The cover prominently features a diagram illustrating a circular argument about checking accuracy, and highlights the ancient and Hindu mathematical significance of the circle as a symbol of perfection, truth, and unalterable nothingness.

Articles and Features

Berliner Ballade

This section reviews a German movie, 'Berliner Ballade', which is described as a satire on militarists and politicians, a piece of pacifist and anarchist propaganda. The reviewer notes its Fortean qualities in challenging authority and provoking thought, suggesting its ban in the USA is due to its critical stance. The movie's plot involves scenes of political meetings in both Eastern and Western sectors, lovers amid ruins, and a satirical depiction of endless political conferences leading to a globe bursting into flame.

Replies to Readers

Flying Saucers and Lie Detectors: In response to a reader's query, the magazine clarifies the Fortean Society's position on Flying Saucers: they do not offer official explanations but rather scrutinize and ridicule authoritative ones. The Society's work is seen as being done by the opposition, who contradict themselves. The issue of lie detectors is strongly opposed due to the unreliability of interpretation, the potential for false alarms, the reliance on mechanical devices for 'truth', and the increase of public awe for science.

Medical Profession: The magazine questions the medical profession, suggesting it is an "unadulterated menace" and that everything they do or recommend might be wrong or dangerous. It advocates for seeking doctors with a 'Fortean attitude' who are not blindly enthusiastic about miracle drugs and who acknowledge the limitations of modern medicine.

Opposition to Use of "Truth Serum" and "Degrading Procedure"

This section reports on a resolution from the International Bar Association conference in London to reject the use of narco-analysis and lie detectors in judicial proceedings. It quotes Mr. Edward V. Saher and Mr. G. V. Rogers, who describe these methods as "degrading procedures" and their evidence as "completely valueless."

American Pin-Heads

This piece criticizes the practice of elevating insignificant individuals to positions of petty power, such as corporals and air-raid wardens, as a means of regimentation and control. It argues that this practice, along with the glorification of informers, serves to maintain an inflated economy and to instill fear in the public, particularly through "civil-defense measures" like dog tags for children.

British Hum

This section compiles reports on the "high-pitched humming" heard in Britain, with initial complaints dating back to 1942. Scientists had investigated but could not identify the source. Soviet papers reportedly dismissed the noises as "wailings of warmongers."

Run of the Mill

A collection of brief, unexplained events reported from various locations:

• A pillar of flame observed off Minivak Island, Alaska.
• A crewless green painted motor schooner ashore in Japan.
• The Hayden Planetarium's 18,000 reservations for the first interplanetary rocket.
• An animal, identified as a "wild baboon," attacking a child in Olive Branch, Illinois.
• A chimney in North Carolina picking up voices and music like a radio receiver.
• Intelligence test results showing a Negro with a third-grade education scoring higher than a college junior.

Science Follies

This section presents a series of peculiar or unexplained scientific and natural events:

• Earthquakes: Contrary to predictions of only one quake per year, hundreds have occurred, including the severe Assam Quake, which levelled mountains and destroyed homes.
• Red Glow in the Sky: A red glow observed a week after the Assam Quake was attributed to volcanoes.
• Radio Signals: Staff at various universities and the US Bureau of Standards are listening to unintelligible radio sounds from outer space, referred to as "signals."
• Havelock Ellis' Lady: A forthcoming book about Havelock Ellis by MFS Delisle is announced. A letter from Delisle argues that it is better to be overrun by Communists than to engage in war, as war is terrorism and leads to more diabolical weapons.
• Repeats: Reports of dead birds in Aberdeen, Washington, possibly due to chemicals; fish dying in South Rhodesia rivers, possibly from spraying; and the speed of light measurement being updated.

Key Incidents and Reports

• Blue Sun and Moon: Reports of the sun appearing blue over Scotland, the North Sea, and Denmark, with explanations ranging from volcanic dust to rocket experiments. The phenomenon was also observed in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, with descriptions of swirling and color-changing skies.
• Blue Rain: Blue rain was reported in Leicestershire, England, leaving navy blue blobs, and later in Dorset, compared to indelible ink.
• Wool Color Change: Sheep in Australia were reported to be growing red, green, brown, and yellow wool, attributed to a "by-product of bacteria."
• Lightning Strikes: Numerous incidents of lightning strikes are detailed, including one that caused a fireworks factory explosion and another that struck a petrol-carrying tug boat.
• Vaccination for Hens: Thousands of chickens in the Dutch province of Gelderland are being vaccinated against a mysterious "bird plague."
• Negress as U.S. Delegate: Mrs. Edith Sampson, a Chicago lawyer, was reportedly chosen as a member of the American delegation to the UN General Assembly as a counter to Russian claims of negro oppression.
• Fortean Cloud: A rainbow-colored cloud moving against the wind was reported, with the Weather Bureau explaining it as a normal phenomenon, but the magazine questions how the WB knew the wind direction at 15,000 feet.
• Ants: Flying ants invaded Bournemouth beach, and red ants drove steeplejacks off a spire in Salisbury. Millions of small flying ants dimmed the daylight in Bologna, Italy.
• Lightning and Dynamite: A lightning stroke set off a dynamite charge in a mine in Pitlochry, Scotland, and a similar event in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, killed two men.
• The Way to Peace: The magazine notes that 22% of draftees in New York are failing to show up, suggesting a growing refusal to fight.
• Lightning Strikes (continued): More incidents of lightning strikes are reported, including one that struck a fireworks factory and another that struck a tug boat.

Atlantis Research

This section mentions the Atlantis Research Center in London, founded by Egerton Sykes, which publishes a periodical and pamphlets on Atlantis. It notes a heavy strain of mysticism and pseudo-scientific dignity in their efforts.

Pluto

Pluto is mentioned in relation to Fort's treatment of "Lowell's planet" and new measurements of Pluto by Dr. Kuiper of Chicago.

Polio Monkeys

In Stockholm, 400 monkeys are being used for polio research. The article questions the focus on research rather than addressing potential causes like tonsillectomies, suggesting that traumatic shock might be a primary cause of polio.

Self-Filling Barrel

A story about a barrel on a farm in the Ozarks that stayed full of water without replenishment is mentioned, but dismissed as lacking adequate investigation and the ability to be replicated.

Repeats

Further reports of dead birds in Aberdeen, Washington, and fish dying in South Rhodesia rivers are reiterated.

Who Can Help Bristol?

A query is posed about whether blind and/or mute people have extra-dimensional perceptions.

Who Can Help Lasko?

Requests for information on two incidents: a French bicyclist who vanished on a cliff road, and a dentist who had dreams of an advanced civilization and studied Greek.

Reading Matter

Mentions pamphlets from George Rolfs and a new publication, 'The Open Eye'. It also notes a new book by Albert Cushing Crebore, Ph.D., titled 'A New Electrodynamics'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, a consistent theme is the skepticism towards official explanations, scientific authority, and government pronouncements. The Fortean Society's approach is characterized by questioning, ridicule of authoritative claims, and the highlighting of unexplained phenomena. There is a strong undercurrent of anti-establishment sentiment, particularly concerning military-industrial complexes, political propaganda, and the perceived overreach of science into public life. The magazine champions critical thinking and encourages readers to form their own conclusions rather than blindly accepting established narratives. The editorial stance is one of challenging the status quo and exposing what it perceives as deliberate obfuscation or manipulation by those in power.

This issue of "MORE NOTES of CHARLES FORT" continues the detailed transcription of Charles Fort's extensive notes, focusing on the year 1859. The magazine also includes two significant letters: an "Open Letter to the Honorable Harry S. Truman, President of the USA" by Alfredo Studer, and a reflection by Francoise Delisle on war and invasion.

Charles Fort's Notes (1859)

The bulk of the content is dedicated to presenting Fort's meticulously cataloged observations, organized by date. The notes for 1859 cover a wide array of phenomena, including:

Meteors and Astronomical Events:

Numerous entries detail meteor sightings across various locations such as Melbourne, Castillon-sur-Dordogne, Mottlesley Observatory, Harrison Co. (Indiana), Albany (N.Y.), and Northern N.Y./Vermont/Massachusetts. Descriptions range from "unusual number" to specific characteristics like "white, pliable substance" and "black vitrified surface."

Atmospheric Phenomena:

Unusual atmospheric conditions are frequently noted. These include "dry fog" or "thick smoke" observed in France with a strong odor of sulphur or creosote, and later in Paris with a nauseating odor. Large hailstones falling gently near Nottingham are recorded, some measuring over an inch in diameter. Swarms of "indecipherable" insects, identified as "Thrips," are mentioned, similar to events in 1869. Thick smoke or fog is also noted at Munster. A "destructive gale" at Bahia is reported, along with a "great storm" in England and France.

Auroras:

Several entries document aurora sightings. These include a "brilliant Aurora" in Florida, an aurora in Chile moving from East to West, and a "great detonating meteor" in Siberia accompanied by an aurora. The notes also detail auroras observed in Jamaica (possibly the first recorded), Savannah (Georgia), and Nova Scotia. The aurora's appearance is described as a "cupola" and "ring of light," with rays and luminous masses. Magnetic disturbances are also linked to auroral displays.

Geological and Hydrological Events:

Earthquakes are recorded in Quito, followed by a "great quake." A "great magnetic storm" is noted. "Sea waves" are mentioned in relation to quakes at Salvador. An "unprecedented drought" in Maine is reported, causing brooks to dry up. A "waterspout" is described near Milan, and another "waterspout burst" near Calcutta. A "great gale" is reported in Southern England and the Channel.

Other Phenomena:

Unusual events like a "disappearance or ghost" at the Isle of Wight are listed. "Extraordinary electric current" in telegraph wires in Italy is noted. A "singular fatality to a family" is mentioned. The appearance of a "spot" on the edge of the sun, and later a "great spot," is recorded. "Flashes from Mt Hood, Oregon," including "clouds of vapor" and "shafts of flame," are documented. A "deluge" near Milan is described as a "waterspout."

Sources and Methodology:

The notes are transcribed from Charles Fort's MSS, which fill 32 boxes. The material is presented chronologically. The text indicates that the "BA" references refer to Reports of the British Association for the Advancement of Science, which are available in many US libraries. The numerals in connection with BA can refer to volume numbers or years. The magazine's editorial approach is to alternate between boxes containing records of "non-human phenomena" and "records of persons."

Letters and Commentary

An Open Letter to the Honorable Harry S. Truman, President of the USA by Alfredo Studer

Studer expresses his disillusionment with the US government, believing that President Truman has little control over official acts, which are primarily dictated by "big private interests" for their own gain. He criticizes the nation's self-perception of individualism and liberty, arguing that Americans have become "robot-like people." He questions the decision to engage in another war just five years after World War II, especially when millions are still suffering. Studer asserts that the true instigators of war are "International Money Lenders" who exploit human weaknesses and ignorance through manipulated leaders in various sectors. He argues that humanity would be better off if conflicts were avoided through passive resistance rather than force, as this would eliminate markets for financiers and the need for loans.

Letter from Francoise Delisle

Delisle shares her experience of living under German occupation during World War I and her relatives' similar experience in World War II. She states that invasion, even of a belligerent nation, is not the worst, most degrading, or most deadly aspect of war. She suggests that the invasion of a non-belligerent nation would be different, but if such a country chooses to face invasion rather than declare war, its people's spirit would be undefeatable, leading to eventual advantage.

Advertising and Book Sales

The issue also contains advertisements for books and publications:

• "NEW The Sea Serpent of CAPE ANN": A documented history of a sea beast.
• "Provocative - Timely - Lively PROGRESSIVE WORLD": The monthly organ of the United Secularists of America, described as an outspoken paper attacking organized churches. It offers a half-price sale on "Shelf-soiled Copies" of works by "St. George" (George H. Malter), including "WORLD PROCESS" (Parts I and II) and "ERRORS OF THOUGHT."
• "BEST - CLEAREST - SIMPLEST PRESENTATION of the DRAYSON PROBLEM": A reprint on the Glacial Period and Drayson's Hypothesis by John Millis.
• "America NEEDS Indians": A book by the author, illustrated and with a large folding map.
• "RAPED AGAIN": A book by Chakotin, described as a "living, working blue-print" for domination and mental enslavement.
• "The Books of CHARLES FORT": A collection of four volumes in one, containing 1151 pages and an index.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed cataloging of anomalous natural phenomena, reflecting Charles Fort's enduring interest in unexplained events. Intertwined with these observations are strong critiques of war, governmental decision-making, and the influence of powerful financial interests, as expressed in the letters from Studer and Delisle. The editorial stance, as suggested by the inclusion of these letters and the nature of the "Progressive World" advertisement, appears to be critical of established power structures and supportive of alternative perspectives on societal and global issues. The magazine also promotes the works of Charles Fort and other authors who challenge conventional thinking.