El Ojo Critico - No 35 - Primavera 2002

Magazine Overview

This issue of "EL OJO CRITICO," titled "CUADERNOS DE INVESTIGACIÓN PARA INVESTIGADORES," issue number 35, published in Spring 2002 by GRUPO FÉNIX from La Coruña, Spain, focuses on a critical examination of Marian apparitions under the main cover headline "Las apariciones marianas a debate EL GRAN ESPECTÁCULO SOBRENATURAL." The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, questioning the divine authenticity of these events and exploring alternative explanations.

The Great Supernatural Spectacle

The lead article begins by recounting the first reported apparition of the Virgin Mary to Lucía dos Santos in Fátima, Portugal, on May 13, 1917. However, it quickly pivots to express skepticism about the numerous apparitions that have occurred since, questioning whether the Virgin Mary is truly responsible for these "macro-spectacles of miracle-working." The article cites Pope Benedict XIV's statement that private revelations, even those approved by the Church, do not require Catholic faith.

The Church's Position

The article highlights that many church leaders and theologians share these doubts. They argue that divine revelations concluded with the Apocalypse given to Saint John on Patmos. The Church, seeing itself as the intermediary between God and humanity, is uncomfortable with individuals outside its structure claiming to receive divine messages. Crucially, the article asserts that no Marian apparition, not even Fátima or Lourdes, has been officially approved by the Vatican. While some apparitions are tolerated for worship, they lack official ecclesiastical recognition. Jesuit priest Father José María Pilón confirms this point, stating that the Church has never officially declared the Virgin's appearance.

Contradictions and Financial Motives

The article criticizes the lengthy and often repetitive messages attributed to the Virgin, questioning why these apparitions don't directly prevent worldly suffering like diseases, hunger, or wars. It points out theological errors, contradictions with the Gospels, political agendas, and even nonsensical claims within these messages. The author suggests that the Virgin is portrayed as taking on a co-redemptory role, repeating scripture, adding confusing elements, and promoting idolatry through requests for chapels and blessed images. The article also notes the use of extraordinary phenomena, which it argues authentic faith does not require.

Furthermore, the article strongly criticizes the financial aspects of many apparitions. It states that it is rare for an apparition not to have an economic motive, involving donation collection, bank accounts, sale of religious paraphernalia, charitable foundations, organized excursions, and publishing. The case of the Fundación Benéfica Virgen de los Dolores, associated with the Prado Nuevo apparitions, is presented as an example of a "sect with lucrative aims," accused of appropriating the assets of the elderly it houses and expanding its operations with significant investments.

Non-Catholic Perspectives and Psychological Explanations

For non-Catholic Christians (Protestants, Evangelicals, Presbyterians), these apparitions are not seen as divine but as the work of the Devil, who can disguise himself as an angel of light. The article cites biblical passages from II Corinthians and II Thessalonians to support this view. The author also explores psychological explanations for apparitions, suggesting that phenomena like stigmata can be psychosomatic. The article discusses how personality disorders, such as paranoid schizophrenia, can involve hallucinations and delusional ideas. It also touches upon the influence of emotional illusions and suggestibility in creating these experiences. The concept of "psychodrama" is introduced, proposing that the subconscious externalizes internal conflicts into a fantastical drama, which the individual accepts as real. The article references Carl Gustav Jung's theory of the collective unconscious and archetypes, suggesting that apparitions tap into these universal patterns, especially during times of social crisis.

"Urban Vampires" and Paranormal Photography

Beyond Marian apparitions, the magazine features articles on other phenomena. One article discusses "Urban Vampires" in Bogotá, Colombia, describing groups of young people who allegedly consume human and animal blood, driven by a desire for power and belonging. It notes the legal difficulties in prosecuting such individuals, as vampirism and satanic cults are not illegal unless they break laws. The article also examines the phenomenon of "paranormal photography," exploring how seemingly inexplicable images in photographs are often the result of optical illusions, camera malfunctions (like parallax), or photographic development errors, rather than supernatural entities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is skepticism towards supernatural claims, particularly Marian apparitions. The magazine consistently seeks rational, scientific, or psychological explanations for phenomena often attributed to divine intervention. The editorial stance is critical and investigative, aiming to debunk claims of the miraculous and expose potential fraud, psychological manipulation, and financial exploitation. The issue encourages readers to investigate for themselves and to adopt a more rational approach to such matters.

This issue of EOC magazine, identified as issue 11, focuses on the technical and optical explanations behind seemingly paranormal photographs, alongside reports of UFO sightings and anomalous events, particularly those associated with the Morón Air Base in Spain. It also delves into the controversial theory surrounding the death of the 'Iceman,' Oetzi.

Mechanics and Optics: The Secret of the 'Paranormal' Photo

The magazine begins by explaining the basic functions of a camera, including shutter speed and aperture, and how they relate to capturing moving subjects or low-light scenes. It highlights the 'B' (Bulb) setting, which allows the shutter to remain open indefinitely, enabling long exposures for phenomena like star trails.

A significant portion of the article addresses common user errors that lead to 'paranormal' photos. Technician Justo Guisasola explains that novice photographers often misuse their cameras, leading to perceived defects. A frequent issue is using the flash with the shutter open on 'B' mode, resulting in the flash image being captured, but the shutter remaining open to capture ambient light, creating light streaks or 'ghostly' images on the negative. This can happen when the photographer moves the camera after the flash fires, capturing the movement of light sources like candles or car headlights.

Another common technical fault identified by Guisasola involves a broken tooth on the sprocket wheel that advances the film. This can cause the film to jam, leading to double, triple, or multiple exposures where images are superimposed. The magazine notes that many 'paranormal' photos submitted by contactees or psychics exhibit this effect.

Manuel Fernández, a photographic analyst, points out that modern cameras often have a built-in double-exposure function, which users may inadvertently activate. He also mentions that a failure in the camera's micro-processor could lead to a frame being re-exposed, creating multiple exposures even without intentional activation.

The article also discusses the phenomenon of 'parasites' within cameras, specifically mites or fungi that can develop in humid conditions. These tiny organisms, attracted to light, can settle on the lens or negative. When the photo is developed and enlarged, the shadow of these mites can appear as strange, semi-circular or oval shapes, sometimes with legs and antennae, leading to interpretations of 'invisible UFOs' or 'antennae-equipped invisible UFOs.'

The Caprices of Light

This section explores another type of 'paranormal' image, often labeled 'invisible UFOs,' which are not caused by camera defects but by the interplay of light with the camera's lens system. The concave and convex shapes of lenses can cause light rays to hit them obliquely, producing unusual images. When photographing bright light sources like streetlights, the sun, or car headlights, these reflections can appear as disc-shaped or circular forms on the film. The magazine cites examples where such reflections have been misinterpreted as actual UFOs.

The Iceman Died in a Ritual

This article focuses on the discovery and analysis of the Ötzi mummy, found in the Ötztal Alps. Johan Reinhard, an archaeologist, proposes that Ötzi died approximately 5,300 years ago as a result of a ritual sacrifice to mountain gods. Evidence supporting this theory includes the presence of an arrow in his back, the deliberate placement of his belongings, and the lack of any signs of a struggle or robbery. Reinhard suggests that Ötzi was a craftsman who extracted copper from the mountain, which was considered a sacred source.

However, this theory is met with skepticism by some, including anthropologist Horst Seidler, who believes there is insufficient evidence to conclude it was a ritual murder. Seidler suggests that Ötzi may have simply died of exposure or after being wounded.

The article also touches upon ancient Celtic practices of ritualistic killing by arrow. Reinhard's theory is partly influenced by his previous discoveries of child mummies sacrificed by the Incas in South America.

Anomalous Events at Morón Air Base (Part I)

This section details numerous testimonies and incidents reported at the Morón Air Base in Sevilla, Spain. Numerous UFO sightings and encounters with alleged extraterrestrial beings have been reported in the area and surrounding towns. The article recounts a specific incident from November 1998 where a soldier on guard duty reported seeing a humanoid figure emerge from the bushes. After firing shots and ordering his dog to attack, the figure disappeared. The soldier's dog sustained an injury, and the incident was reportedly covered up by military authorities.

The article also addresses the possibility that some of these sightings might be misinterpretations of experimental aircraft, such as the F117, which have allegedly landed at the base. The author argues that the military's insistence on secrecy fuels speculation and misinterpretation of these events as UFOs.

Further incidents at the base include reports of strange lights, disembodied voices, and unexplained phenomena in barracks. One account describes a soldier repeatedly turning off a light in a barracks only for it to turn back on, even after inspecting the area and finding no one present.

Anomalous Events at Morón Air Base (Part II)

This continuation of the report on Morón Air Base details more unusual occurrences. It mentions sightings of strange luminous forms, including double spheres and rhomboidal objects with unusual lights. The article also discusses the crash of an Aviocar C-212 military aircraft in Guadalajara in March 2000, which was en route from Morón Air Base. Questions are raised about the aircraft's mission and the circumstances surrounding its crash, with suggestions that it may have been carrying classified information.

The author emphasizes that while some incidents may be explained by experimental aircraft or military exercises, a significant percentage of the phenomena reported at Morón remain unexplained and point towards a paranormal or poltergeist-like activity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of technology, perception, and the unexplained. It advocates for a critical approach, urging readers to first seek technical or logical explanations for anomalous phenomena before resorting to supernatural or extraterrestrial interpretations. However, it also acknowledges that some cases defy conventional explanations, leaving room for genuine mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, grounded in a desire to uncover the truth behind reported anomalies, whether they stem from optical illusions, camera malfunctions, secret military operations, or genuinely unknown phenomena. The magazine seems to lean towards the idea that while many 'paranormal' photos have mundane explanations, the sheer volume and nature of some reports, particularly those from military installations like Morón, warrant further serious investigation.

This issue of "Año Cero" (Year Zero), issue number 27, delves into a variety of intriguing and often controversial topics within the realm of the paranormal, mystery, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine features a mix of investigative journalism, historical accounts, and theoretical explorations.

Laura Antonelli Victim of Fraudulent Exorcists

The lead story details the plight of Italian actress Laura Antonelli, who has fallen victim to fraudulent exorcists. The article reports on the arrest of Padre Akuma and Doctora Mosciarello, accused of defrauding Antonelli through continuous fraud. Antonelli, once a prominent Italian erotic icon of the 70s, is described as having lost her mental equilibrium and control, making her vulnerable. The fraudulent pair allegedly extorted large sums from her, with Antonelli having to disburse approximately 60,100 euros for spiritual treatments. The article paints a somber picture of Antonelli's current life, living in poverty and disorientation, a stark contrast to her former glamorous image. Neighbors describe her as speaking with God and isolating herself, dedicating her resources to the priest and doctor.

Psychic Spies Against Bin Laden

This section reports on the confirmation that US intelligence agencies are employing psychics and clairvoyants to predict future terrorist attacks and locate Osama bin Laden. The technique, known as "remote viewing," was developed by the CIA. The article mentions the "Stargate" program and notes that former psychics from the program, such as Angela Thompson-Smith and Lyn Buchanan, have been consulted. Prudence Calabrese's company, Transdimensional Systems, has also been contracted by the FBI, with predictions pointing to sports stadiums as probable targets.

"There Are Other Worlds, But They Are Here"

This extensive article explores the concept of parallel universes and other realities. It begins by referencing literary examples like Alice in Wonderland and Narnia, then delves into philosophical and mythological concepts. The article discusses Anaxagoras's belief in an "antitierra" and the Hindu concept of "dwipas" (continents). It touches upon theosophical interpretations of ancient religious texts as allegories for hidden truths. The writer, Jacques Bergier, is mentioned for his interest in metaphysical worlds and his theories on "Riemman surfaces" suggesting a complex spatial structure where layers coexist. The piece speculates on the possibility of "spaces within our space" accessible through dimensional portals or spacetime wrinkles, potentially explaining folklore about places one can enter but never leave.

Lost Continents

This sub-section further explores the idea of parallel worlds by examining ancient cosmologies. It references the Puranas and their description of seven continents (dwipas), some with fantastical elements like seas of sugarcane juice. The article notes that the concept of dwipas was introduced to the West in the late 19th century by the Theosophical Society. It suggests that these ancient descriptions might be allegorical representations of sacred truths.

The Man Who Came from Tuared

This section recounts the story of a man who appeared in Tokyo in 1954 with a passport from a non-existent country called the "Republic of Tuared." The man claimed his country occupied a large part of the Sahara desert and sought to purchase weapons to help Arab countries emancipate themselves from Western oppression. Japanese authorities were unable to locate Tuared on any map. The man was eventually interned in a psychiatric hospital. The article considers the possibility of this being a fraud, similar to Puerto Rican independence movements issuing their own passports.

In Search of Qaumaneq

This part of the article shifts focus to the Arctic and the search for the Northwest Passage. It describes the perilous expeditions of explorers like Ross, Mackenzie, and Franklin. The narrative highlights the harsh conditions, disease, and death faced by these explorers, hinting at encounters with unknown creatures. The article mentions the mysterious disappearance of Sir John Franklin's expedition in 1847 and the subsequent rescue attempts. It suggests that the official search for the Northwest Passage might have been a cover for a secret mission to find a hidden world, possibly related to the Inuit belief in beings called "Tunnit" or "Toonijuk," described as giants with fangs. The concept of "Omanek" or "Qaumaneq" is introduced as a shamanic realm or dimension.

"Strange Faces Will Come"

This section discusses encounters with mysterious individuals who appear to be from other realities or dimensions. It mentions cases from the 13th century (a man appearing at a wedding in Scotland) and the 12th century (a figure spitting fireballs). A more recent account involves a man resembling Lee Harvey Oswald firing a strange weapon. The article also references Salvador Freixedo's work on "visionaries, mystics, and extraterrestrial contacts," detailing a couple in Miami who claimed to be from "the north of the continent" and engaged in unusual activities. The concept of "Men in Black" (MIBs) is also brought up, with some MIBs claiming to be from "The Nation of the Third Eye." The possibility of interdimensional travel and access points is explored.

The Man Who Came from Tuared (Continued)

This section continues the narrative about mysterious visitors. It mentions a case from 1973 where a man in a black suit visited a woman in Puerto Rico, speaking of other worlds and exhibiting hypnotic abilities. The article questions whether these individuals can travel between worlds at will. It also discusses the experiences of Al Kiessig, who claimed to be able to enter other dimensions or "access portals." Kiessig described an "infrasonic environment" lacking wind or sun, and a world that mirrored our own but was devoid of life. He also spoke of other dimensional gateways leading to lifeless lands, the past, or the future.

The FBI Perfects its Cyber-Espionage

This article reports on the FBI's controversial "Lantern Magic" project, which uses computer viruses to spy on internet communications. The FBI's prior acknowledgment of using spyware to obtain user information is mentioned, but this is the first confirmation of developing such a program. The article raises concerns among privacy advocates about potential abuses by authorities, as the FBI previously required a judicial order to install such technology.

Satanic Murder in Germany

This piece details a gruesome murder case in Bochum, Germany, where Manuela Ruda and her husband are accused of murdering a man as part of a satanic ritual. The couple allegedly drank the victim's blood and engaged in disturbing practices, including sleeping in silk-lined coffins. Ruda's testimony describes her initiation into devil worship and her belief in reincarnation as vampires. The article highlights the shocking details of the murder, including the use of a hammer and machete, and the ritualistic branding of the victim's body.

They: Women in Paranormal Investigation

This article critically examines the role and representation of women in paranormal research and media in Spain. The author notes that in congresses, specialized magazines, and media programs, men often dominate the roles of investigators and researchers, while women are frequently relegated to roles of psychics, mediums, or contactees. The article analyzes the staff and contributors of major Spanish paranormal magazines (Año Cero, Enigmas, Karma-7, Más Allá), revealing a significant gender imbalance in authorship, with men overwhelmingly outnumbering women as contributors and columnists. It suggests that while women may be present in editorial roles, they are not typically in leadership positions. The author posits that this imbalance reflects a cultural machismo that assigns intellectual roles to men and intuitive or sensitive roles to women. Despite this, the article acknowledges the significant contributions of several women researchers in specific areas of the paranormal, such as vampirism, shamanism, and UFOlogy, arguing that their work deserves more recognition.

International Panorama

This section extends the discussion of gender bias in paranormal research to the international level, noting that some women have overcome this masculine monopoly to become respected figures in ufology and paranormal investigation. Examples include Elisabeth Kübler Ross, Linda Milton Howe, Cynthia Haind, and Jenny Randlef. The author emphasizes that femininity is a state of mind and that, while these women may not be the best-selling authors or most frequent media faces, their serious and rigorous research is recognized by those within the field. The article highlights the work of Spanish researchers like Isabel Blázquez (vampirism), Concha Labarta (shamanism), Luisa Alba (curanderos), Sol Blanco Soler and Piedad Cavero (poltergeist phenomena), Pili Abeijón and Clara Tahoces (esoteric criminology), Magdalena del Amo (UFO phenomenon), and Martha Gonzalez (UMMO), among others, underscoring their dedication and objective research.

Scientology: Religion or Intelligence Agency?

This article, a text distributed at a conference in Berlin in October 1995 by Jon Atack, details his nine-year experience as a member of Scientology. Atack, who reached the 24th level of the "Operating Thetan" course, left the organization after investigating its hidden agenda and criminal activities. He claims that many Scientologists are unaware of the organization's immoral and criminal actions, believing instead that they are part of a group transforming the world into a place free of "criminals, madness, or war." Atack recounts his efforts to expose Scientology, including publishing his book "A Piece of Blue Sky" after a legal battle. He describes facing a massive campaign of defamation and vilification from the organization. The article details Atack's personal experiences with Scientologists who visited him uninvited, accusing him of "persecution" and being a "liar." He explains the Scientology concept of "buttons" and the dogma that all opponents are "suppressives." The article notes that Scientology has faced legal challenges and loss of tax-exempt status in several countries, including Germany, France, and Denmark, with criminal proceedings in Spain and Italy. It also mentions a significant libel lawsuit in Canada.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Año Cero" revolve around the unexplained, the mysterious, and the potentially dangerous aspects of human belief and investigation. The magazine tackles subjects ranging from alleged supernatural phenomena and fraudulent practices to the hidden agendas of organizations and the underrepresentation of women in scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, seeking to uncover truths behind sensational claims and expose potential abuses of power or belief. There is a clear interest in exploring alternative realities, historical mysteries, and the darker aspects of human behavior, while also advocating for rigorous and objective research, particularly in the field of paranormal investigation.

This issue of UFO magazine, published by Planeta 2MIL1, focuses on the controversial doctrines and covert operations of Scientology, particularly its founder L. Ron Hubbard, and the organization's intelligence arm, the Guardian's Office. The cover features the title "Los EXPEDIENTES SECRETOS" (The Secret Files) by Manuel Carballal, with a subtitle indicating it covers CESID (Spanish intelligence agency), control of beliefs, and inexplicable phenomena, stamped "CONFIDENCIAL".

Scientology's Control and Communication Restrictions

The article begins by detailing how Scientology restricts communication, particularly with critics. Any criticism is framed as a result of "discoveries" or moral transgressions. Critics are asked "What are your crimes?" and if a Scientologist hears criticism, it must be reported to the "ethics" department via a "knowledge document." Scientologists are forbidden from discussing Scientology's techniques, with punishment being declared a "Suppressive Person" and ostracized. They are encouraged to only discuss problems with their assigned "auditor," even at a cost of $1000 per hour. Despite Hubbard's insistence that Scientology stimulates communication, the text argues he spent considerable time restricting it.

The Doctrine of 'Fair Game'

The most controversial doctrine in Scientology is the "Fair Game" policy. Hubbard was aware that this term referred to the medieval practice of designating an individual as a "legitimate target for persecution and attack." This policy contradicts Scientology's supposed aim of increasing communication skills and affinity among its adherents. Instead, Hubbard stated that opponents "must be deceived, sued, bribed, and destroyed." A policy letter from Hubbard admitted that individuals deemed "Suppressive Persons" could be subjected to "first-degree murder, incineration, disintegration of persons or possessions." Although this policy was publicly withdrawn, it continued to appear in intelligence training courses and was admitted to have never been officially abrogated.

Hubbard's Aggressive Stance and Intelligence Operations

The text highlights Hubbard's aggressive approach, citing a 1955 article where he wrote, "The DEFENSE of anything is UNSUSTAINABLE. The only way to defend something is to ATTACK." He ordered dependent organizations to use legal means to "persecute" their enemies. In 1959, Hubbard established an espionage system and new procedures to combat opponents, detailed in the internal "Office of Communications Manual of Justice." This manual described the Office of Communications as an "intelligence agency" focused on "gathering data" and "listening and noting." Hubbard instructed followers to spread Scientology into society through their work, encouraging them to infiltrate companies and organizations to gain control.

Infiltration and Control Tactics

Hubbard's "Special Zone Plan" in June 1960 outlined strategies for infiltrating nations and states by gaining influence with leaders. He advised followers to get jobs in secretarial or bodyguard positions and not to seek cooperation from other groups or ask permission. The text provides an example of a police officer introducing Scientology into his workplace. The Department of Government Affairs, later replaced by the Department of Official Affairs, was tasked with maintaining files on Scientology and anti-Scientology groups, effectively acting as a "Ministry of Propaganda and Security."

Smear Campaigns and Persecution of Critics

When Lord Balniel questioned Scientology in the British Parliament, Hubbard reacted furiously, ordering a smear campaign against him, emphasizing "sex and blood" in the press. He advocated for "noisy investigation" and attacking opponents with "horrifying crimes, sex, and blood" as evidence. Hubbard claimed 15 years of experience, stating that every attacker "smelled of crime" and that the assassination would be revealed.

The Guardian's Office and Operation Snow White

The Public Information Section, established in February 1966, was later transformed into the infamous Guardian's Office (GO). Under Hubbard's direction, the GO controlled all legal, public relations, and intelligence activities. Hubbard's wife, Mary Sue, served as the vitalicia Controller of the GO. The GO inherited intelligence files and techniques, including "noisy investigation." Operation Snow White, launched in 1973, was a major intelligence operation aimed at stealing and replacing negative material in government archives about Scientology with positive material. This operation was described as having the "highest priority of all GO activities."

FBI Raid and Legal Consequences

In July 1977, the FBI raided the GO offices, leading to the conviction and imprisonment of eleven Scientologists, including Mary Sue Hubbard. The US court ruling detailed systematic and persistent theft from US government offices, obstruction of justice, and the use of false evidence. The ruling highlighted the "incredible and dramatic nature of the criminal conduct of the defense and the organization defended," including infiltration, theft of documents, defamation campaigns, and threats against individuals.

Scientology's Global Reach and Objectives

The article notes that a similar process led to convictions in Canada in 1992. It also details Hubbard's belief in a global conspiracy of psychiatrists and his attempts to control psychiatry. Scientology's secret objectives included discrediting enemies, controlling media and financial institutions, and forming alliances with minority groups and other totalitarian sects like the Unification Church and the Children of God. The text mentions the alleged pact between these groups and Jehovah's Witnesses, Raelian Movement, and Bahá'í Faith.

Espionage Techniques and Propaganda

The Guardian's Office employed sophisticated espionage techniques, including planting spies, monitoring communications, and using "third partying" or "black propaganda" to create division. The "Rutina de Entrenamiento en Mentir" (Routine of Training in Lying) was used for training spies. The GO also engaged in illegal activities such as breaking into bank accounts, computer files, and government records, and stealing medical or psychiatric notes. The article mentions the use of "noisy investigation" as a tactic to harass and discredit opponents.

Control of Mental Health Field

Hubbard's stated goal in a 1969 memorandum was to "take absolute control over the mental health field on this planet in all its variants." This involved infiltrating psychiatric associations and hospitals and launching an offensive against psychiatrists. The text also touches upon Hubbard's own claims of having been an "intelligence officer" during World War II, which he used to build a myth around his intelligence activities.

The Book "Los Expedientes Secretos"

The final pages feature a promotional section for the book "Los EXPEDIENTES SECRETOS" by Manuel Carballal, which is described as examining CESID, the control of beliefs, and inexplicable phenomena. The book is presented as a deep dive into secrets and the pursuit of truth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are Scientology's aggressive tactics, its use of intelligence and espionage for control and persecution, and its alleged attempts to infiltrate and manipulate societal institutions, particularly the mental health field. The editorial stance is critical of Scientology, exposing its covert operations and controversial doctrines as harmful and manipulative. The magazine positions itself as an investigative publication uncovering hidden truths about organizations and phenomena.