El Ojo Critico - No 56 - Ene 2008

Magazine Overview

Title: EL OJO CRITICO
Issue: N° 56
Date: Enero 2008 (January 2008)
Publisher: GRUPO FENIX
Country: ESPAÑA (Spain)

This issue of 'El Ojo Critico' (The Critical Eye), a Spanish publication focused on investigative research, ufology, and the paranormal, presents a diverse range of articles. The cover prominently features a Ouija board, hinting at themes of mystery and the unknown. The issue includes a detailed table of contents listing numerous articles on topics from UFOs and military archives to religious phenomena and historical investigations.

Key Articles and Features

Angel Bastida: The General Who Declassified UFO Files

The lead article, "Angel Bastida: El general que desclasificó los expedientes OVNI" (Angel Bastida: The General Who Declassified UFO Files), pays tribute to the late General Angel Bastida Freijedo. It details his significant role in the declassification of UFO files held by the Spanish Air Force. The article highlights his impeccable military career, including his command of air traffic control systems and his participation in international missions. It recounts how, in 1992, as Lieutenant Colonel, Bastida was instrumental in initiating the process of declassifying UFO-related documents, a move that occurred during a summer course at the Universidad Complutense. The article references official documents, such as a March 1992 internal note from the Mando Operativo Aéreo (MOA), which proposed the declassification of UFO sighting files. It also mentions the access granted to journalist J.J. Benitez in 1976, which reportedly spurred further requests for information and contributed to the perception of 'secret files'. The piece emphasizes that Bastida's involvement was crucial in making parts of the Spanish military's UFO archive public, suggesting that this declassification was a significant event in Spanish ufology.

The Vatican Observatory and Extraterrestrial Life

An article titled "Los astrónomos vaticanos y la vida extraterrestre" (Vatican Astronomers and Extraterrestrial Life) features an interview with José Funes, the director of the Vatican Observatory. Funes, an Argentine Jesuit, expresses that he does not rule out the existence of other intelligent beings in the universe, though he notes the lack of current evidence. He discusses the potential difficulties in communicating with such beings due to vast differences in advancement. Funes also touches upon the relationship between faith and science, stating that his faith aids his scientific work and vice versa, acknowledging a constant, yet positive, tension between the two. The article mentions that the Vatican Observatory, while not possessing its own large telescopes, collaborates with advanced astronomical research facilities, such as those in Arizona, to remain at the forefront of research. The observatory organizes prestigious conferences on topics like the detection of Earth-like planets, welcoming participants from diverse religious and non-religious backgrounds.

"Santos Famosos": An Interview with Carlos Fernández

This section features an interview with Carlos Fernández, author of the book "Santos Famosos y otras extrañas devociones" (Famous Saints and Other Strange Devotions). Fernández discusses the universal human need for figures to intercede with the divine, citing examples from Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism, and comparing them to Catholic saints. He explains the rigorous process of canonization in the Catholic Church, which has evolved over centuries. The interview highlights how, in contemporary times, the Church is producing many new saints, often local figures, to meet a perceived need for relatable role models. Fernández also explores the phenomenon of 'popular sainthood', where figures like singers (Rocío Jurado, Gilda, Rodrigo), politicians (Eva Perón, Hugo Chávez), and even athletes (Maradona, Ronaldinho) are venerated by the public, often with shrines, offerings, and prayers for miracles. He notes that the premature death and perceived incorruptibility of some of these figures contribute to their veneration. The article also touches upon the controversial practice of 'mystical anorexia', where prolonged fasting for religious reasons is sometimes seen as a path to sainthood, and the unusual case of uncorrupted bodies being treated as relics or even becoming objects of cults.

Witchcraft and the Inquisition in Aragon

Another segment introduces the book "Brujería e inquisición en Aragón" (Witchcraft and Inquisition in Aragon) by Ángel Gari. The article points out that ordinary justice in Aragon was often harsher than the Inquisition in dealing with witchcraft cases. It contrasts the Inquisition's approach, which rarely resulted in death sentences for witchcraft, with the ordinary justice system's use of 'desaforamientos' (states of exception) that could lead to execution by hanging. The text mentions specific cases, such as the persecution of witches in Alto Aragón and the case of Pedro de Arruebo, who, accused of witchcraft, received a lesser sentence from the Inquisition than he might have from ordinary justice. The article also delves into the practices of witches, including the use of substances like bufotenine derived from toads for their rituals.

Other Noteworthy Content

Several other articles and sections are present:

• "El general que desclasificó los OVNI" (continued from page 3): This article delves deeper into General Bastida's background and the context of the UFO file declassification.
• "Los 77 Expedientes X" (The 77 X-Files): This section discusses the archive of UFO reports handled by the Mando Operativo Aéreo (MOA), detailing the number of cases and the procedures for declassification.
• "La desclasificación no contada" (The Untold Declassification): This part of the article on General Bastida provides further details on the internal military process leading to the declassification.
• "Los expedientes perdidos (3)" (The Lost Files (3)): This appears to be a continuation of the series on UFO files.
• "El efecto Lucifer" (The Lucifer Effect): Mentioned in the table of contents, this likely explores psychological or paranormal phenomena.
• "Annus horribilis": Also in the table of contents, suggesting a review of a difficult year or period.
• "INFORME: Videntes y crimen organizado" (REPORT: Seers and organized crime): This indicates an investigation into the connection between psychics and criminal activities.
• "Los jinas y la tradición islámica" (Jinn and Islamic tradition): Explores supernatural beings in Islamic folklore.
• "Los No Identificados y la Guardia Civil" (The Unidentified and the Civil Guard): Likely a report on UFO sightings involving Spanish law enforcement.
• "Magistral conferencia de J. Armentia" (Masterful conference by J. Armentia): A report on a lecture given by J. Armentia.
• "DOSSIER: lo paranormal en la Universidad" (DOSSIER: The paranormal at the University): A special report on the study of paranormal phenomena in academic settings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

'El Ojo Critico' consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded approach to paranormal and anomalous phenomena. The magazine aims to provide a balanced perspective, presenting information from both skeptical and believer viewpoints, as indicated by the testimonials from its contributors. The editorial stance emphasizes rigorous investigation, critical analysis, and the pursuit of truth, often challenging conventional explanations and exposing potential hoaxes or misinterpretations. The publication values independence and strives to maintain a neutral position, encouraging dialogue and the exchange of ideas among researchers and enthusiasts. The recurring themes of UFOs, unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and the intersection of science, religion, and belief systems underscore the magazine's commitment to exploring the frontiers of human knowledge and the unexplained.

This issue of "Antropología" (Anthropology) focuses on the controversial integration of anthropologists into US military operations, particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq, under the guise of "Indiana Jones"-style recruitment for psychological operations. The magazine also explores psychological experiments, the influence of media on criminal behavior, and various cultural rituals.

US Military's Use of Anthropologists

The lead article details the US Department of Psychological Operations' recruitment of civilian anthropologists, such as 'Tracy,' for projects like the 'Human Reconnaissance Team' in Afghanistan. These teams are designed to understand tribal relations and local dynamics to aid counterinsurgency efforts. Colonel Martin Schweitzer notes a significant reduction in combat operations and an increased focus on security, medical care, and education since the academics arrived. The project, expanded by Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, aims to improve local governance, persuade tribes to join the police, alleviate poverty, and protect civilians from the Taliban.

However, the initiative faces criticism from within academia. Critics, including Professor Hugh Gusterson, denounce it as 'mercenary anthropology,' exploiting social sciences for political gain and potentially leading to all anthropologists being perceived as intelligence gatherers for the military. They argue that this practice contributes to a 'brutal war of occupation.'

Montgomery McFate, a key figure in the project and author of the counter-insurgency manual, defends the initiative, stating they are 'anthropologizing the armed forces' rather than militarizing anthropology. She believes the teams help reduce conflict and prevent mistakes made in previous conflicts, like in Iraq.

Psychological Experiments and Human Behavior

The magazine features a detailed account of the Milgram experiment, conducted at Yale University in 1963. This study investigated obedience to authority, finding that a significant majority (66%) of participants were willing to administer electric shocks to another person when instructed by an authority figure, even when warned of potential harm. The article suggests that this capacity for obedience could turn ordinary people into instruments of tyranny, drawing parallels to historical events like the Holocaust.

Another section explores the concept of 'brainwashing,' a term coined by journalist Edward Hunter in 1950 to describe the psychological manipulation of US soldiers captured by Korean militias. The article links brainwashing techniques to criminal acts, citing examples like the Peoples Temple cult in Jonestown, the Waco siege, the Tokyo sarin gas attack, and the Manson Family murders.

Crime and Media Influence

An article titled "Readings Before Committing a Crime" questions whether literature, journalism, or comics can inspire criminal acts. It references the case of serial killer Albert H. Fish and psychiatrist Fredric Wertham's controversial work linking horror comics to juvenile violence. The piece also mentions the case of the 'Putxet killer' in Barcelona, where police seized a magazine article relevant to the investigation.

The section "Can someone hypnotize you to kill?" discusses the potential for hypnosis and brainwashing to influence behavior, suggesting that while hypnosis may not force someone to act against their core will, persuasive techniques can alter thinking and actions over time.

Cultural Rituals and Beliefs

"The firewalkers" article explores the ancient ritual of walking on hot coals, particularly in San Pedro Manrique, Spain, during the San Juan festival. This practice is seen as a test of courage and faith, often attributed to divine protection, especially from the Virgin of the Peña. The article notes similar rituals in India, Malaysia, and the Philippines, suggesting a universal fascination with fire as a link to the divine.

It delves into the physical explanation of firewalking, emphasizing the importance of technique, speed, and psychological control to avoid burns. The article also touches upon other fire-related rituals and beliefs across different cultures, including those involving intense heat in Native American sweat lodges and 'tests of truth' among desert nomads.

Education and Scientific Literacy

The "Spain: Failing in Science" section reports on the PISA 2006 results, which placed Spain in a mediocre 31st position out of 57 countries in scientific knowledge. While countries like Finland and Canada show improvement, Spain remains stagnant. The article highlights that the PISA study evaluates not only scientific knowledge but also students' ability to recognize scientific and technological content in everyday life.

It also examines regional performance within Spain, noting that while most autonomous communities performed above the Spanish average, Andalusia and Catalonia lagged behind. The article suggests that factors like per-student spending and the number of students taking the exam may influence these results.

Criminal Organization

A brief report details the dismantling of a criminal organization in Mexico known as "Los Santeros." This group, led by Beatriz Ramírez Romero, specialized in kidnapping businessmen by offering spiritual protection and consultations, using this to gather information before demanding ransom. The organization used cell phones and payphones for negotiations and threatened victims' families.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of human behavior, psychology, and cultural practices, often through the lens of controversial or unusual phenomena. There's a recurring theme of questioning societal norms and established beliefs, whether it's the military's use of social sciences, the limits of human obedience, the influence of media, or the interpretation of ancient rituals. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting different perspectives and encouraging readers to question conventional wisdom.

This issue of 'Fraudes' magazine, dated 2007 (implied by content), focuses on sensational and often fraudulent claims within the paranormal and psychological fields, alongside a significant section on the rise of organized esoteric scams.

The Extraordinary Case of the "Gnome" of Girona

The lead article revisits the sensational claim made 18 years prior by "Professor" Angel Gordon, a self-proclaimed parapsychologist, hypnotist, and vampire expert. At a magic and witchcraft congress in La Coruña, Gordon presented his "discovery" from a forest in Girona: a captured "pitufo" (Smurf-like creature). He described it as 12 centimeters tall, with blueish skin, large ears, and a white cap, mirroring the popular cartoon characters. Gordon presented photographs of the creature preserved in a Nescafé jar, claiming scientific analysis was conducted by a prestigious American laboratory. The article humorously questions the preservation method and the nationality of the discovery, given the political context of Catalonia. The "gnome" was also discussed by "Professor" Darbó (Sebastián Arbonés), who promoted the case internationally through his "televisión del misterio" programs. The report notes that Darbó's wife was among those who participated in the alleged capture and preservation.

The "Diabolical" Lucifer Effect: An Interview with Philip Zimbardo

This section features an interview with psychologist Philip Zimbardo, author of "The Lucifer Effect." Zimbardo discusses his famous Stanford Prison Experiment, where ordinary students assigned roles as guards or prisoners devolved into abusive and sadistic behavior within days. He explains that situational forces, anonymity, and group dynamics can profoundly influence individuals, leading even "good people" to commit evil acts. Zimbardo relates the experiment's premature end due to its disturbing outcomes, particularly after his then-girlfriend, Christina Maslach, witnessed the guards' dehumanizing treatment of prisoners. The interview also touches upon the Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal, which Zimbardo found unsurprising given his research. He explains the title "Lucifer Effect" as an analysis of human transformations, where individuals can slide down a "slippery slope" towards evil. Zimbardo emphasizes that understanding these dynamics is crucial for preventing such behavior and for fostering "heroic imagination" in children, encouraging them to act against evil or indifference.

Annus Horribilis: Obituaries in the World of Mystery

The magazine dedicates a section to notable figures from the world of mystery and the paranormal who passed away in 2007. These include General Angel Bastida, responsible for the declassification of UFO information by the Spanish Air Force; historian, editor, and artist Jose María Kaydeda; Rafael Farriols; Juan Antonio Cebrián, a popular radio host known for his program "Turno de Noche," who died at 41 from a heart attack; Germán de Argumosa y Valdes, an 87-year-old parapsychologist and philosopher; and Enrique Vila, a doctor and expert in near-death experiences. The passing of Concha Labarta, editor of "Mas Alla de la Ciencia" and director of "Nueva Dimensión-Karma7," is also noted.

Esoteric Scams and Organized Crime

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the increasing sophistication and prevalence of esoteric scams, often linked to organized crime. The "Informe: Las nuevas técnicas de los estafadores esotéricos" details how groups, particularly those involving immigrants from Brazil and other Latin American countries, are operating as "santeros" (spiritual healers) or false psychics. These groups employ elaborate schemes, often involving multiple individuals with specialized roles (astrology, tarot, etc.), to defraud victims of large sums of money through fake rituals, curses, and "cleansings." The article highlights several police operations in cities like Palma de Mallorca, Santander, Zaragoza, and Córdoba that have dismantled such organizations. It notes the evolution from isolated scammers to structured criminal bands that use intimidation and violence. The case of "Esmeralda," a psychic who defrauded clients of tens of thousands of euros, is presented, along with the conviction of "famous psychic" Cristina Blanco. The issue provides "10 clues to protect yourself from false psychics," advising caution regarding advertising, consultation locations, pricing, and the demand for "special" rituals. It stresses the importance of reporting scams and consulting illusionists as a way to discern genuine phenomena from trickery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical stance towards sensationalist claims, exposing them as "frauds." While presenting cases like the "gnome of Girona," the tone is often skeptical and humorous, highlighting the absurdity of the claims. The interview with Philip Zimbardo provides a scientific and psychological perspective on human behavior, contrasting with the pseudoscientific narratives often found in the paranormal field. The extensive coverage of esoteric scams underscores the magazine's commitment to revealing deceptive practices and warning the public. The obituaries section, while respectful, also places these figures within the context of the "mystery" and "paranormal" world, often associated with the magazine's theme of debunking or critically examining such phenomena.

This issue of "Ufología" (Issue 4, dated December 2007) is a critical examination of paranormal phenomena, focusing on esoteric crime, UFO investigations by the Spanish Guardia Civil, and the concept of 'Jinn' in Islamic tradition. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet investigative stance, aiming to uncover truths behind alleged mysteries and expose fraudulent practices.

Esoteric Crime and Fraud

The issue highlights the activities of the "Esmeralda" gang in La Coruña, Spain, a well-organized group specializing in esoteric scams. According to a report from the Comisaría de La Coruña, this group operated from a shared residence, using fraudulent mystical rituals and animal sacrifices to justify exorbitant fees charged to clients. The gang's modus operandi involved creating a suggestive and discreet environment to manipulate clients, often preying on individuals with personal problems. The article notes that this type of esoteric crime is becoming more prevalent in Europe.

A significant case detailed is that of a 52-year-old Brazilian woman, identified as Z.B., who was investigated by a judge in Vigo for allegedly defrauding over 200,000 euros through faith healing rituals. She was arrested in Badajoz and later released on a substantial bail. The investigation revealed that she operated by renting accommodations for short periods, advertising her services, and then disappearing before clients could seek recourse. This case exemplifies the 'nomadic diviners' phenomenon previously warned about.

UFO Investigations by the Guardia Civil

A central theme is the extensive, yet often hidden, investigation of UFO phenomena by the Spanish Guardia Civil. The article "Los expedientes OVNI secretos no existen" (UFO files do not exist secretly) debunks the notion that official UFO investigations were fully declassified in 1992. It asserts that numerous reports and files continue to be generated and classified by various branches of the Spanish security forces, including the Guardia Civil, Ejército del Aire, Armada, CNI, and different police forces. The magazine claims that official UFO files from the Guardia Civil, dating up to summer 2007, remain classified.

An account by an unnamed investigator details how they gained access to classified UFO reports within the 612ª Comandancia of the Guardia Civil in Lugo. These reports included testimonies, UFO filming evidence, and encounters with humanoids. One specific report from March 24, 1996, detailed UFO sightings and a landing incident in Friol, Lugo, involving alleged extraterrestrials emerging from the craft.

Another section discusses a 1983 letter from General Andrés Cassinello, then Director General of the Guardia Civil, to Andreas Faber Kaiser. This letter contained a unique document: a summary of 25 UFO incidents recorded by the Guardia Civil between 1953 and 1983. While the summaries included dates, times, and witness names, the full reports and case files remain sealed in the archives.

The magazine also touches upon the role of the Guardia Civil in investigating rural UFO sightings, given their jurisdiction in such areas. It highlights cases where Guardia Civil officers themselves became witnesses or investigators of anomalous phenomena.

Jinn in Islamic Tradition and UFO Phenomena

The issue explores the concept of 'Jinn' within Islamic tradition, drawing heavily from the Quran and Islamic scholarship. Jinn are described as intelligent, non-human beings created from smokeless fire, coexisting with humans on Earth. They are said to possess supernatural abilities, including shape-shifting and travel, and their existence is a mandatory belief in Islam. The article discusses debates within Islamic jurisprudence regarding the possibility of marriage between humans and Jinn, and the potential for hybrid offspring.

Several theories are presented linking Jinn to UFO phenomena. Some researchers suggest that UFOs might be manifestations of Jinn technology, or that Jinn might be the 'aliens' encountered in modern abduction cases. The article references the writings of scholars like Charles Upton, who speculates on the possibility of Jinn possessing advanced technology, possibly stolen from humans or self-created. The phenomenon of 'phantom airships' and 'ghost rockets' from the late 19th and early 20th centuries is also tentatively linked to Jinn activity.

Skepticism and the Paranormal

The magazine critically examines individuals who identify as 'scientific skeptics' while allegedly profiting from the promotion of paranormal topics. Mauricio Schwarz is cited as an example of a self-proclaimed scientific communicator who, while publicly debunking phenomena like psychic abilities and extraterrestrial contacts, simultaneously advertises psychics and mystics on his website. The article suggests this practice is both common and lucrative, with individuals like Schwarz profiting from both sides of the mystery.

Case Studies and Anecdotes

Several anecdotal accounts and case studies are presented:

• The 'Esmeralda' Gang: Detailed description of their methods and the police investigation.
• The Vigo Faith Healer Case: The arrest and investigation of a woman accused of large-scale fraud.
• Guardia Civil UFO Reports: Specific instances of UFO sightings and encounters documented by the Guardia Civil.
• The 'Falso Jina' Photo: The debunking of a widely circulated photograph claimed to be of a Jina, revealing it to be a prop from a Tolkien exhibition.
• The 'Bill Post' Encounter: An account of a mysterious 'Man in Black' encounter involving John Hopkins, raising questions about the nature of these beings and their potential imitation of human behavior.
• Human-Jinn Hybrid Theories: Discussion on the possibility of human-Jinn hybrids and their implications, drawing from abduction testimonies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the pervasive nature of fraud within the paranormal and esoteric fields, the persistent and often clandestine investigation of UFO phenomena by official bodies, and the exploration of ancient beliefs, such as the Jinn, in the context of modern mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to expose deception while acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena. The magazine challenges simplistic debunking and encourages a deeper investigation into the complexities of UFOs and related subjects, often drawing parallels between ancient myths and contemporary reports.

This issue of OJO CRITICO, identified as number 41, focuses on a variety of topics within the realm of the paranormal and ufology. The cover prominently features 'Alerta en Tenerife,' highlighting a significant UFO case from 1992. The magazine also delves into legal battles within the ufology community, the role of universities in studying anomalous phenomena, and the history of UFO research in different countries.

Alerta en Tenerife: A Case Study

The lead article, 'Alerta en Tenerife,' details the events of July 9, 1992, when the 091 emergency service received calls about an aircraft falling into the sea near the TF-1 highway in Tenerife. Multiple witnesses corroborated the sighting, describing an incandescent object resembling a Boeing that appeared to be falling in flames. Some witnesses also reported seeing it float on the waves before disappearing. Despite extensive investigations by the Guardia Civil, including reports from the Civil Government of Tenerife and Air Traffic Control, the origin of the phenomenon remained unidentified. The article includes official documents related to the case, signed by Angel Delgado Martin, Governor Civil of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, who concluded that the hypothesis of a crashed plane was discarded, but no other concrete conclusion could be reached.

Legal Battles in the Ufology World

The issue highlights several legal disputes. One section, 'Benítez contra Ribera: Historia de un juicio,' discusses the long-standing conflict between J. J. Benítez and Antonio Ribera, involving a lawsuit filed by Editorial Planeta against Ribera for failing to deliver contracted books. The article notes that Benítez has made documents related to this and other legal cases available on his website. Another case involves Francisco García Román filing a complaint against Rafael Cabello for alleged insults and slander on the internet forum 'Mundo Misterioso.' Additionally, Moises Garrido is reportedly initiating legal procedures for apostasy from the Catholic Church. The 'Briongos contra Amares' section details a lawsuit filed by Angel Briongos against the editorial Amares for unpaid fees related to a contract.

Joaquín Abenza's Literary Debut

Joaquín Abenza, known for his work on the radio program 'El Ultimo Peldaño,' has published his first book, also titled 'El Ultimo Peldaño.' The book compiles the best content from 15 years of the program, covering various mystery and paranormal topics.

University Involvement in Paranormal Research

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the relationship between Spanish universities and the study of anomalous phenomena. The article 'Los fenómenos anómalos y la universidad española' notes that while parapsychology is not an official university discipline in Spain, many universities have hosted summer courses, seminars, and workshops related to the field. Examples include the University of La Laguna, the University of Santiago de Compostela, the University of Barcelona, and the University of Alcalá de Henares. The article also discusses the historical collaboration between universities and parapsychological associations, such as the S.E.D.P. (Sociedad Española de Parapsicología), and the pressures exerted by pseudoscientific groups like ARP and the MEO to monopolize university resources and subsidies.

CIOVI Dissolves After 50 Years

The article 'Tras 50 años de investigación CIOVI se disuelve' reports on the dissolution of the Center for Investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects (CIOVI) in Uruguay after half a century. Founded in 1958 by a group of young enthusiasts inspired by Hollywood films, CIOVI aimed to investigate UFO phenomena seriously. While the group is disbanding due to a perceived lack of public interest, the Uruguayan Air Force's Commission for Receiving UFO Denunciations (Cridovni) continues to receive about 40 reports annually.

Other Noteworthy Items

• 'El OVNI era Venus... ¿otra vez?': This section discusses a radar-visual case from December 5, 1989, suggesting that Venus might have been mistaken for a UFO by witnesses and that radar equipment may have been faulty.
• '¿Scramble en España el 14-10-07?': A brief mention of a rumor about a possible air traffic invasion on October 14, 2007, prompting the takeoff of a fighter jet.
• 'Mas libros solidarios': Highlights new book releases from Ediciones Cydonia, including 'Dioses y faraones: Misterios de la religión egipcia,' with a portion of sales going to charity.
• 'La Foto': A retrospective piece showing a group of adolescents from the 1980s who were involved in mystery investigations, noting how some have maintained their interest while others have moved on.
• 'Piensas lo que comes, sientes lo que piensas': Features Javier Akermán's book 'Cocina para sanar las emociones,' which explores the connection between nutrition and emotions.
• 'Fotos exclusivas: LOS PREMIOS NOBEL Y LO PARANORMAL': Presents exclusive photos of Nobel laureates Dr. Severo Ochoa and Dr. Brian Josephson, suggesting their interest in paranormal research.
• 'Ufología en España... herida pero viva': Discusses the continued activity of veteran ufological organizations in Spain, such as the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI).
• '¿Una plancha de oro de los Tayos?': Reports on the presentation of a supposed gold plate from the Cueva de los Tayos in Buenos Aires.
• 'Wikipedias del misterio, un proyecto a apoyar': Promotes a collaborative online encyclopedia for mystery topics.
• '31 años de Jornadas de Parapsicología': Announces the 31st annual Parapsychology conference, featuring various experts.
• 'Pseudociencia': This section features a lecture by Professor Javier Armentia on curiosity as a driver of science and discusses various studies, some of which are presented with a critical or skeptical lens.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, skepticism, and the paranormal. There is a clear emphasis on investigative journalism, presenting both official documents and witness testimonies. The editorial stance appears to favor critical analysis and a rational approach to anomalous phenomena, as evidenced by the inclusion of skeptical viewpoints and discussions about pseudoscientific claims. The magazine also champions the importance of rigorous research and the need to distinguish between genuine scientific inquiry and unsubstantiated speculation. The recurring theme of university involvement suggests an effort to legitimize the study of these topics within academic circles, while also acknowledging the challenges and controversies surrounding such endeavors.

This issue of DOSSIER magazine, identified by its page numbers 51-56 and a raw issue date of 2008, is dedicated to a comprehensive compilation of academic research on UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The primary headline, "Relación de tesis doctorales y otros trabajos universitarios sobre los ovnis y la vida extraterrestre" (Relationship of doctoral theses and other university works on UFOs and extraterrestrial life), clearly sets the theme. The magazine aims to challenge the notion that UFO research is a clandestine or marginalized academic pursuit, asserting that it has been studied within universities for decades.

Demystifying Academic Resistance

The editorial section begins by addressing the historical perception of UFO research as a "clandestine" effort, often attributed to ufologists like Allen Hynek and Jacques Vallée. The article argues that this view, while perhaps serving to justify their heterodox approach, is outdated. It points out that doctoral theses on the subject existed even in the 1970s, and the interest from students and doctoral candidates has grown considerably in the last decade, particularly in the United States, where approximately 90% of these studies have been conducted.

The expansion of the internet has facilitated the collection and dissemination of information on these academic works, with ufologists and academics like Jacques Poulet, Paolo Tosselli, Roberto Labanti, Edoardo Russo, Barry Greenwood, and Anders Liljegren playing a key role in maintaining information networks and compiling accessible works. The article acknowledges the contributions of George Eberhart's bibliography, "UFOs and the Extraterrestrial Contact Movement," and more recent compilations. It also references a Spanish-language summary by Martí Fló and Elisa Ferrer on the university's involvement in UFO studies.

Terminology and Equivalencies

A section is dedicated to clarifying the terminology used for academic degrees, especially when translating from foreign systems. The author explains the differences between a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in the Anglo-Saxon system, noting that a Master's in the US can be a specialization or a step towards a doctorate. The Spanish equivalent of the latter is the Diploma de Estudios Avanzados (DEA), formerly Suficiencia Investigadora. The article clarifies that Spanish Master's, Magíster, or Maestría degrees are often extracurricular and may not have official recognition within the academic system. For clarity in the list, the original English term "Master" is retained as an equivalent to the DEA.

Catalog of Academic Works

The core of the issue is a meticulously organized list of academic works related to UFOs and extraterrestrial life, categorized into three main sections:

Doctoral Theses (Tesis Doctorales):

This section lists over 40 doctoral theses chronologically, starting from 1970. Each entry includes the author, title, field of study (e.g., Journalism, Modern History, Sociology, Political Science, Folklore, Astrophysics), university, and year. Notable theses include:

• Herbert Joseph Strentz (1970): "A Survey of Press Coverage of Unidentified Flying Objects, 1947-1966."
• David Michael Jacobs (1973): "The Controversy over Unidentified Flying Objects in America: 1896-1973."
• Michael Kelly Schutz (1973): "Organizational Goals and Support-Seeking Behavior: A Comparative Study of Social Movement Organizations in the UFO (Flying Saucer) Field."
• Steven James Dick (1977): "Plurality of Worlds and Natural Philosophy: An Historical Study of the Origins of Belief in other Worlds and Extraterrestrial Life."
• Thomas Eddie Bullard (1980): "Mysteries in the Eye of the Beholder: UFOs and Their Correlates as a Folkloric Theme Past and Present."
• Persis Banvard Clarkson (1985): "The archaeology and geoglyphs of Nazca, Peru, or The extraterrestrial foundations of Andean civilization."
• Linda Jean Milligan (1988): "The UFO Debate: A Study of a Contemporary Legend."
• Robert Pearson Flaherty (1990): "Flying Saucers and the New Angeology: Mythic Projection of the Cold War and the Convergence of Opposites."
• Daniel Ray Romesberg (1992): "The Scientific Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence: A Sociological Analysis."

The section also provides a statistical breakdown of doctoral theses by specialization (Psychology and Social Psychology: 10; Folklore and Anthropology: 7; Sociology: 5; History: 4; Literature and English: 3; Journalism and Communication: 4; American Studies: 2; Astrophysics: 1) and by country of origin (United States: 33; Canada: 2; Argentina: 1; France: 1; United Kingdom: 1; Ukraine: 1; Spain: 1; Portugal: 1; Norway: 1; Germany: 1).

Master's Theses and DEA Research Works (Tesis para los títulos anglosajón y francés de Master y trabajos de investigación para el Diploma de Estudios Avanzados (DEA) español):

This section lists works for Master's degrees (M.A. Thesis) and French DEA (Diplôme d'Études Approfondies), presented chronologically from 1950. It includes:

• DeWayne B. Johnson (1950): "Flying Saucers: Fact or Fiction?"
• William E. Brummett and Ernest R. Zuick (1974): "Should Air Force Reopen Project Blue Book?"
• Michel Marcus (1980): "Analyse statistique des rapports d'observation d'OVNI."
• Shirley Mclver (1985): "The UFO Movement: A Sociological Study of UFO Groups."
• Pierre Lagrange (1991): "L'epreuve du paranormal. A propos de quelques travaux de sociologie des parasciences."
• Susan Claudia Lepselter (1994): "UFO Stories: The Poetics of Uncanny Encounters in a Counterpublic Discourse."
• Jodi Dean (1998): "Alien in America: Conspiracy Cultures from Outer Space to Cyberspace."
• Maria Helena Durão (1998): "Um fenómeno aeroespacial não identificado em Ferreira do Alentejo: mediatização e lecturas sócio-culturais."
• Simon Brian Harvey-Wilson (2000, 2001): "Shamanism and Alien Abductions: A Comparative Study."

This section also provides a breakdown of Master's works by specialization (Social Sciences and Humanities: 13; Sociology: 10; Anthropology and Folklore: 4; Psychology: 2; Science and Technology: 2; Religion: 1; Public Administration: 1; Journalism: 1) and by country (United States: 15; Canada: 4; France: 7; United Kingdom: 1; Italy: 1; Brazil: 1; Australia: 2; Spain: 1; Germany: 1).

Undergraduate Theses and Postgraduate Works (Tesinas de Licenciatura de Carrera Universitaria y otros trabajos de posgrado):

This section lists undergraduate theses and other postgraduate works, noting that the data is incomplete. It includes:

• Ronald Dutton (1967): "An Analysis of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFO's)."
• Darrell L. Stanley (1968): "UFOs and Extraterrestrial Life."
• Jerry D. Stroh (1971): "The UFO Debate in Still Alive."
• Everett Richard Walter (1977): "The Study of Unidentified Flying Objects and Its Adoption Within the Community College Curriculum."
• Antonio Baragiola (1977): "Aspectos psicológicos de la observación de objetos voladores no identificados (OVNIS)."
• Lise Vincent (1983): "Contribution à l'étude de la vie associative: le cas de deux associations scientifiques montpelliéraines."
• Bernard Mirande (1983): "Les O.V.N.I. et les E.T. dans les rêves."
• Véronique Galzy and Solveig Letort (1988): "OVNI: un tabou scientifique?"
• Christophe Campiglia (1992): "L'irrationnel et ses habitants a deux periodes distinctes de l'histoire: les OVNI au XXeme siecle et les fees, les lutins, le diable et la mort du XV au XVIlleme siecle."
• Barbara Adina Vacarr (1993): "The Divine Container (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Trauma, Abduction)."
• Anita Karina González and Viviana Villalobos (1998): "Tratamiento y cobertura periodística de los fenómenos OVNIs en las revistas de divulgación científica 'Muy Interesante' y 'Conozca Más'."
• Óscar Contardo (1998): "Investigación ufológica en Chile, ¿ciencia o delirio?"
• Anita Karina González and Viviana Villalobos (1998): "Cazadores del misterio. Archivo Ovni: investigación ufológica en Chile."
• Richard Blann (1998): "The Roswell Incident: The Emergence of the UFO Community as a Subculture in American Society."
• Jodi Dean (1998): "Alien in America: Conspiracy Cultures from Outer Space to Cyberspace."
• Maria Helena Durão (1998): "Um fenómeno aeroespacial não identificado em Ferreira do Alentejo: mediatização e lecturas sócio-culturais."
• Patricia Aburto and Sandra Gómez (1999): "Los OVNIs como noticia en la prensa escrita."
• Stefania Genovese (1999): "La mitopoiesi ufologica."
• George M. Rønnevig (1999): "Alien abductions. Historiske og sosiokulturelle tilnærminger til forestillinger om å ha vært bortført av UFO."
• Isabelle Cavé (2000): "Les joutes oratoires des ufologues en cette fin du XXème siècle; Regard d'une sociologue."
• Julien Winkel (2000): "La presse OVNI: une étude de la presse spécialisée dans les Objets Volants Non-Identifiés."
• Jean-Michel Abrassart (2001): "Approche Sociopsychologique du Phénomène OVNI."
• Daniel Mavrakis (2001): "Aspects psychiatriques, médico-psychologiques et sociologiques du phénomène OVNI."
• Maurizio Lacco (2002): "'Attivita' di intelligence e individuazione di oggetti volanti non identificati (UFO): la comunicazione istituzionale verso l'opinione pubblica."
• Krista S. Henriksen (2002): "Alien Encounters: A Close Analysis of Personal Accounts of Extraterrestrial Experiences."
• Diego Zúñiga (2003): "Los OVNIS. La prensa escrita en la difusión de creencias populares."
• Alberto Ruvolo (2004): "Media ed esperienze di comunita. Il rapporto tra ufologia e mecí d'informazione."
• Andrea de Ponti (2005): "Il fenomeno degli oggettivolanti non identificati (U.F.O.) trattato dai quotidiani italiani dal 1947 al 1997."
• Giovanna Tedde (2006): "Black Out nel sistema dei media: il caso Area 51."
• Jessica Moberg (2006): "Traducción: Cuando los platillos volantes aterrizaron en el Estado de Bienestar sueco."

Special Features

"Crónica de un experimento parapsicológico insólito: Noche de Alerta Psicofónica Simultánea Internacional"

This section details an experiment conducted on November 9-10, involving national researchers and the radio program "El último peldaño" from Onda Regional de Murcia. The experiment focused on psychophony (paraphony) and involved a simultaneous audio recording at 00:30 hours. The event was described as unprecedented in Europe and was dedicated to the memory of Germán de Argumosa. The results are still being analyzed, with participants hoping to have captured intelligible words.

"La biblioteca del investigador"

This new section recommends books for researchers. Two complementary works are highlighted:

• "Paradojas psiquicas" (Psychic Paradoxes) by John Booth: A book by a famous magician that examines spiritualism and parapsychology from an illusionist's perspective.
• "10 palabras clave en parapsicología" (10 Key Words in Parapsychology) by Padre Pilón and a research team: This work analyzes ten aspects of the paranormal from the viewpoints of physicists, chemists, pharmacists, and theologians, offering a unique perspective from scientists venturing into paranormal research.

Ultima Hora: Nuevas evidencias sobre el gnomo de Girona

This news brief reports on new evidence concerning the "gnome of Girona" case, discovered 50 years prior. It states that sightings of these creatures have multiplied, coinciding with a controversy over public drinking. The Generalitat has ordered an in-depth investigation into the fiscal implications of illegal immigrants in the forests of Catalonia. The Mossos d'Esquadra (Catalan police) are consulting anomaly experts like Josep Guijarro, who suggests a statistical link between gnome sightings and shamanistic practices in the forests. Miguel Aracil further supports this by noting the presence of archaeological remains and specific vegetation associated with shamanism. The article includes a photograph, allegedly from a police file, showing a group of "gnomes" conspiring, described by Iker Jiménez as a "chilling document."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance is clearly in favor of acknowledging and studying UFO phenomena within academic and scientific frameworks, actively seeking to debunk the notion of academic hostility towards the subject. It promotes a rigorous, research-based approach, as evidenced by the extensive compilation of theses and academic works. The editorial also embraces the exploration of paranormal phenomena, as seen in the "Crónica de un experimento parapsicológico insólito" and the book recommendations. The inclusion of the "gnome of Girona" case, presented with police involvement and expert opinions, suggests an openness to investigating even unconventional or folkloric aspects of anomalous phenomena. The magazine concludes by wishing readers "peace, health, and mysteries in a Happy 2008."