El Ojo Critico - No 25

Magazine Overview

'El Ojo Crítico' is an independent, periodic publication dedicated to the investigation of anomalous phenomena and their social, legal, cultural, and scientific implications. It is produced by a group of independent researchers aiming to foster critical and scientific thinking about these phenomena and the public opinion surrounding them. This issue, number 25, dated March 1999, features a cover headline about the 'Sedona landing that never existed'.

Sedona: The Landing That Never Existed

The article begins by acknowledging the frequent disappointments in ufology, referencing past events like the 'alien autopsy' and the Hale-Bopp cult suicide. It then details the story of Paul Doré, an engineer who claimed to have received signals from the EQ Pegasi system on October 22, 1998. Doré, using Siemens' equipment, reported capturing a faint signal that he believed was extraterrestrial. Despite initial excitement, experts quickly dismissed his claims, noting his lack of astronomical background and the unsuitability of EQ Pegasi for harboring life. Doré's claims were further undermined when SETI League's Dr. Paul Shuch stated that none of their 63 stations could confirm the signal. The article suggests that while science dismissed Doré, many found the official rejection abrupt and tendentious.

The 'Wingmakers' Enigma

The narrative then shifts to Mark Hempel, a web designer contacted by Peter Gersten of CAUS (Citizens Against UFO Secrecy). Hempel was tasked with creating a website for a collective of Norwegian artists called 'Wingmakers' who were reportedly experimenting with 'synesthesia' and aiming to alter human perception towards a more 'holistic' view. Hempel was paid upfront and received material electronically. The website, featuring unusual graphics and text, was launched, but Hempel soon encountered problems when communications with his client, 'Anne', were returned, and his computer systems were affected by a virus. Later, Hempel received threatening messages warning him to cease managing the website, suggesting the information was obtained illegally.

Hempel consulted experts who found the 'Wingmakers' material highly unusual. The story connected to a supposed governmental agency, ACIO (Alien Contact Intelligence Organization), a branch of the NSA, allegedly investigating alien artifacts. This agency supposedly discovered a tunnel in Arizona with 23 chambers containing images and glyphs that, when deciphered by a 'Professor Andersson', revealed music, art, and artifacts from time travelers from the 28th century.

Astrological and Governmental Speculation

The article notes that the 'Wingmakers' website was linked to a potential 'dimensional portal' opening at Bell Rock in Sedona on December 7th, coinciding with the EQ Pegasi signal. Some speculated a connection to the merger of Mobil (Pegasus) and Exxon (Tiger) oil companies, linking it to apocalyptic prophecies.

Astrologer Ray Mardyks discussed the significance of the first half of December 1998, calling it a 'galactic window' and linking it to a rare celestial alignment. Meanwhile, Ignatius Graffeo of Ufoseek News reported on Richard Hoagland's claims about unusual military activity near Turret's Peak, Arizona, suggesting it was related to a 'time capsule' or ruins, possibly connected to the 'Wingmakers' caverns. Hoagland's claims were based on federal government excavations in the New River area.

An informant from the Pentagon allegedly revealed that the activity in New River was preparation for an extraterrestrial landing, similar to the movie 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind', with EQ Pegasi positioned at midday on December 7th.

The Sedona Event Unfolds

The article describes how this information fueled interest, leading many to travel to the area. However, the anticipated event was met with a temporary restriction on flights in Phoenix due to an impending snowstorm in the southwestern US. Despite the lack of any landing, an anomalous radar signal was detected near Turret Peak, possibly related to military deployments mentioned by Hoagland.

Conclusions on the Sedona Event

The author concludes that the entire affair was a bizarre concatenation of events, possibly orchestrated to validate the 'ET hypothesis'. The origin of the 'Wingmakers' material remains a mystery, with speculation ranging from an elaborate prank to a form of mind control. The article expresses concern that the ufological community might have been chosen as a testing ground for unknown forces.

A Fortune Teller Detained

A separate news item reports on the arrest of a fortune teller in Lugo, Spain, named María Artina Anido Montes. She was accused of defrauding a young woman from As Nogais of nearly one million pesetas for allegedly finding her a boyfriend. The fortune teller was released on bail.

Illusionism vs. Spiritualism

This section, written by Scott Corrales, delves into the history of illusionism and its relationship with spiritualism. It traces the origins of magic from ancient Egypt and Greece, where illusions were used for religious and entertainment purposes. The article highlights figures like Dedi, who performed tricks for Pharaoh Keops, and Herón of Alexandria, who described mechanisms for creating magical effects.

It discusses how 'illusionism' emerged in the 4th century BC, moving from temples to theaters. The medieval period saw 'illusionists' viewed with suspicion, often conflated with witchcraft. The article mentions Reginald Scot's 1584 book 'The Discoverie of Witchcraft', which demystified many tricks.

The rise of spiritualism in the mid-19th century led to a conflict with illusionists, who sought to expose fraudulent mediums. However, some illusionists, like Joseph Dunninger, found it more lucrative to present themselves as psychics. Dunninger, a renowned mentalist, gained fame through radio and stage performances, claiming psychic abilities, which disappointed many in the magic community who believed in exposing fraud.

The article categorizes different types of magic, including Cartomagia (card tricks), Mentalism (psychic effects), Fakirism (insensitivity to pain), Escapism (escaping restraints), Micromagia (close-up magic), Prestidigitation (sleight of hand), and Grand Illusions (large-scale spectacles).

Reflections on Instrumental Transcommunication

This section, written by Carlos G. Fernández, discusses Instrumental Transcommunication (ITC), the alleged communication with spirits through electronic devices. It mentions direct voices picked up by shortwave radios and video/television 'psychic images'. Italian experimenter Marcelo Bacci is noted for recording hundreds of hours of direct voices.

The article highlights the work of the Harsch-Firschbach couple and the late Klaus Schreiber, who developed systematic methods for obtaining these phenomena. Schreiber's technique involved feeding a TV screen's image back into its camera to produce unstable images from which figures could be identified. The article notes that this process could be influenced by 'ideoplastic projection', where the brain constructs images from random points.

The Society for Psychical Research's Opinion

The Society for Psychical Research (SPR) analyzed images obtained by Klaus Schreiber and Martin Wenzell. In a 1992 journal article, Arthur Berger, Gerd Hovelmann, and Walter Von Lucadou concluded that the phenomenon was a simple interpretation of Rorschach tests, suggesting that the structure of the experiment allowed for subjective interpretation. They found no probative value for the images regarding survival after death.

This conclusion led to indignation among ITC and parapsychology proponents, resulting in disputes and even legal actions.

Further Doubts and Identifications

Ernst Senkowski, in a 1997 article, pointed out that some images attributed to Schreiber and the Harsch-Firschbachs were later identified as frames from films or previously published photographs. Senkowski proposed the hypothesis of 'parallel realities' as an explanation for these 'communications'. Examples include an image identified as actress Romy Schneider, similar to a frame from the film 'La dama y el comisario', and a graphic received by the Harsch-Firschbachs that was identical to one published in 'Esotera' magazine.

Senkowski defends his position, stating that these are not deliberate manipulations or uncontrolled TV emissions but genuinely paranormal captations. However, the article concludes that for others, doubt remains.

Yo Fabriqué una Secta (II) - Interview with José Luís Jordán Peña

This is the second part of an interview with José Luís Jordán Peña, who claims to be the sole author of the UMMO affair, calling it the most significant UFO hoax in history. Jordán Peña discusses his views on combating irrationalism, suggesting it's better to foster believers' search for God and immortality rather than attacking them with rational arguments. He warns against the dangers of attacking false education, which can lead to a void and depression.

He draws a parallel between the credulity of victims of fortune tellers and cult followers, stating that parapsychology, as a 'paraciencia', often encompasses paranoid beliefs and lacks scientific rigor. He notes that a significant percentage of astrology, palmistry, and divination followers, and even UFO enthusiasts, can be susceptible to cults.

Jordán Peña discusses the 'Puerta del Cielo' sect, noting that its leader, Marshall Applewhite, suffered from mental disorders, including delusions, paranoia, and religious fixations, alongside sexual dysfunction. He suggests that Applewhite's strong leadership personality allowed him to recruit over 800 followers and induce them to commit mass suicide.

He further elaborates on how the UMMO doctrine was formed by amalgamating Christian faith with popular beliefs about 'Men-masses' and extraterrestrial saviors. He mentions the influence of Bonnie, his nurse, who suggested he was chosen by God, leading to his intense depression after her death.

Jordán Peña touches upon the phenomenon of paranoia irradiation and the concept of 'demonstration' in logic versus the claims of parapsychology. He questions whether extraterrestrial beliefs, spirits, and supernatural powers have advanced cult recruitment techniques, concluding that it depends on the leaders' intellect and the population's susceptibility to fantastical beliefs.

He criticizes the sophisticated technical means developed by dangerous groups, drawing a parallel with Nazism and its ability to attract intellectuals. He also mentions the 'Communidad' sect, founded by Silo, which later became the 'Partido Humanista'. He argues that these groups aim to control governments and impose global dominance using technological means.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical and critical stance towards paranormal claims, ufology, and pseudoscientific phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, scientific investigation, and the demystification of alleged mysteries. The publication aims to expose hoaxes, analyze the psychological and social factors behind belief in the paranormal, and differentiate between genuine phenomena and fraud. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation and a commitment to rational explanation, often highlighting the role of psychological biases and manipulation in the spread of unsubstantiated beliefs.

This issue of 'EL OJO CRÍTICO' (The Critical Eye) delves into a range of controversial and often unsettling topics, primarily focusing on the alleged existence and implications of 'Snuff films,' and exploring the intersection of psychiatry with paranormal phenomena. The magazine adopts a critical and investigative stance, dissecting myths, debunking claims, and examining the psychological underpinnings of various beliefs and behaviors.

Películas Snuff: ¿Satanismo, fraude o crimen organizado?

The lead article tackles the dark subject of Snuff films – movies where violence and death are allegedly real and recorded for the sole purpose of distribution. It notes that while once dismissed as a myth, their existence is now more widely acknowledged, often linked to elite circles and criminal networks. The article references cases like that of Johnny Zinn, accused of rape and murder with the alleged intent of creating a Snuff film, and the infamous David Berkowitz ('Son of Sam'), who claimed to have filmed his crimes. It also touches upon the alleged involvement of cults like Charles Manson's 'family' in producing such material. The author expresses skepticism about the widespread availability of genuine Snuff films, suggesting that many might be staged or fabricated, and points out the lack of arrests for producing or distributing them, distinguishing them from serial killers who may film their acts but for different reasons.

The Critical Eye: Scientific Approach to Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)

This section reports on a roundtable discussion in Seville titled 'Near-Death Experiences: A Scientific Approach.' The event featured researchers Daniel Ortíz Mínguez and Moisés Garrido Vázquez, Dr. José María Domínguez Roldán (Head of the UCI Neurological Unit), and Dra. Mercedes Martínez Fuentes. The discussion covered the complex phenomenon of death from medical, philosophical, religious, psychological, and parapsychological perspectives. Dr. Domínguez Roldán emphasized the difficulty in pinpointing the exact moment of death, noting that brain death is the determining factor. He cited a Gallup survey indicating millions of Americans have experienced NDEs. The article outlines common NDE stages: out-of-body experiences, tunnel vision, encountering a bright light, meeting deceased relatives, contact with a superior being, feelings of peace, and return to the body. The panel suggested that many 'near-death' cases might be misdiagnosed cardiac arrests rather than actual death, and that NDEs, while not definitive proof of life after death, offer valuable insights into the human psyche and unconsciousness.

The Transformative Effect of NDEs

Researchers like Moisés Garrido highlighted the transformative impact of NDEs, particularly the out-of-body experience and the profound changes they bring to individuals. The article cites Dr. Kenneth Ring's work, suggesting NDEs lead to a higher level of human consciousness, reducing fear of death, increasing appreciation for love, and fostering a sense of interconnectedness.

Psychiatric Approach to Paranormal Phenomena

This extensive section delves into how psychiatry views and attempts to explain various paranormal phenomena. It traces the historical roots of psychiatry, from primitive trepanation to Hippocrates and Johann Weyer's critique of demonology. The article then details specific psychopathological conditions that can manifest as paranormal experiences:

Psychopathology of Consciousness

This includes Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), exemplified by the case of Sybil, who exhibited sixteen distinct personalities. The article explains that MPD involves alternating between different personality states, often accompanied by amnesia.

Psychopathology of Perception

This section covers illusions and hallucinations. It discusses pareidolia (seeing meaningful images in random patterns, like faces in clouds or figures in fire) and its association with phenomena like 'teleplastias' (religious figures appearing on surfaces). It also details auditory-hallucinations (hearing voices, common in schizophrenia), visual hallucinations (elemental, like lights and shapes, or complex, like seeing figures), and tactile hallucinations (feeling sensations like crawling insects on the skin, known as formication or parasitosis). Olfactory-gustatory hallucinations (unpleasant smells or tastes) are linked to temporal lobe epilepsy and paranoia.

Disorders of Thought and Language

This includes mystical delusions and delusions of possession, where individuals believe they are divine figures (like Jesus Christ) or are possessed by entities, leading to behaviors that mimic religious or demonic possession.

Sleep Disorders

Narcolepsy is discussed, characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, REM sleep disturbances, cataplexy, and sleep paralysis. Hypnagogic and hypnopompic hallucinations (occurring during sleep onset or awakening) are also mentioned, often associated with sleep paralysis and sometimes interpreted as encounters with menacing figures or 'sleep visitors.' The article notes that these phenomena can be linked to temporal lobe disorders and are sometimes interpreted in UFO abduction scenarios.

The 'Ummo' Experiment and the Nature of Falacies

The article questions the scientific validity of the 'Ummo' experiment, describing it as a 30-year endeavor to develop theoretical statements rather than a rigorous scientific study. It distinguishes between 'falacia' (fallacy) and 'sofisma' (sophism), defining fallacy as a belief or statement that is misleading or based on incorrect reasoning, often exploited through suggestion. It highlights how suggestion and persuasion, particularly in childhood, can lead to superstitions and paranoid delusions, making it difficult to convince individuals within destructive cults of their errors. The article also touches upon the Roswell incident as an example of a myth created through suggestion, initially intended for atmospheric monitoring but later spun into an extraterrestrial encounter narrative.

Are Phenomena Entirely Mental?

While acknowledging the significant role of psychiatry in understanding paranormal phenomena, the article concludes that not all such occurrences can be fully explained by mental processes alone. It points to instances like glossolalia (speaking in tongues) in supposedly possessed individuals as examples that challenge purely psychiatric explanations, suggesting that some phenomena may remain beyond current scientific comprehension.

Radio Program on Serial Killers

A brief mention is made of a 2-hour special program on Spanish Radio VOZ dedicated to serial killers, featuring forensic psychiatrists, criminologists, and legal experts. The program discussed the psychological profiles and criminal behavior of serial killers, referencing cases like Charles Manson and Jeffrey Dahmer, and highlighting the potential presence of active serial killers in Spain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach, aiming to demystify paranormal claims and psychological phenomena by examining them through the lens of psychiatry and scientific inquiry. There's a strong emphasis on debunking myths, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and psychological disorders, and questioning sensationalized narratives. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, while acknowledging the complexity and sometimes inexplicable nature of human consciousness and experience. The magazine seeks to educate its readers by providing psychological and scientific explanations for events often attributed to the supernatural or extraordinary.