Fakta - 1970 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: FAKTA?
Issue: Nr. 3, 1. årgang
Date: May-June 1970
Publisher: FAKTA?
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Focus: Cosmic philosophy, UFOs, physical and psychic phenomena, and unusual events.

Archaeology: The City of the Golden Calf Found at Tel Dan

The lead article, "GULL-KALVENS BY ER FUNNET" (The City of the Golden Calf is Found) by Henry Raymont, reports on significant archaeological excavations in northern Israel. These excavations have begun to provide evidence for the ruins of Dan, the city where the Bible states King Jeroboam worshipped the Golden Calf around 900 BC. A team of scientists and workers, led by Dr. Avra-ham Biran, the Israeli director of antiquities and museums, has reconstructed a part of the city.

Dr. Biran detailed these findings in a lecture at the Brooklyn Museum. The site, now called Tel Dan, is located on an earth mound near Mount Hermon, on the border with Syria. Although only about half an acre has been explored on two sides of the mound, Israeli archaeologists have uncovered remains of a monumental city gate, which Jeroboam likely built to defend his Israelite kingdom against Syrian invasion. Evidence also points to the city's destruction by King Ben Hadad of Damascus about 40 years after the fortified wall was built.

According to the Books of Kings, Jeroboam, a former officer in King Solomon's army, established the northern kingdom after a rebellion and then instituted the worship of the Golden Calf. He is said to have built two royal altars for this worship, one at Dan and another at Bethel, encouraging his people to worship them as the gods who brought them out of Egypt. At Dan, he established a priesthood from outside the Levite lineage.

Dr. Biran mentioned that a structure built of flat basalt stones was found on the northern edge of Tel Dan, which could be the altar associated with Jeroboam. He explained that this area, surrounded by abundant springs, may have served as a sanctuary for generations. The structure is described as solidly built with layers of basalt stones.

The article highlights the fine masonry, characteristic of the Israelite monarchy period. It references verses from 1 Kings 12:31, suggesting that the "house of high places" and the priests appointed from the common people could refer to such a building found at Dan.

A significant discovery is a monumental city gate on the southern edge of the mound. Dr. Biran also noted three other pieces of evidence gathered the previous summer, indicating the grand scale of the city's entrance. These include an unusual construction of hewn stone with four pillars, possibly supporting a statue's foundation, and a 15-foot-long bench along the outer wall of the eastern gate tower. The gate itself is intersected by a 150-foot-long basalt causeway, suggesting a royal processional route.

Dr. Biran described the gate as being situated at the foot of a massive earth fortification built approximately 700 years earlier. This fortification, covered with plastered clay and sloped at a 40-degree angle, served to defend the city. In the middle of the second millennium BC, when Dan was known as Lais, these fortifications were its most important defenses, even after its conquest by the Dabaitenes, and until Jeroboam surrounded them with a 12-foot wall, making it the most significant stronghold in the northern Israelite kingdom. However, the fortress was destroyed by King Hadad around 885 BC, about 40 years after the wall and gate were erected.

"We found a nearly 3-foot layer of ash and remains from the destruction," Dr. Biran stated. "But Dan was rebuilt again." He also mentioned finding nearly 300 small jars, burial sites, and artifacts from a later period.

Findings in a Figure-Head Excavation:

Two investigated depressions have yielded weapons and Mycenaean pottery from the 14th century BC. Dr. Biran noted that the historical evidence aligns with the archaeological findings. Further evidence might provide information about the Golden Calf that Jeroboam erected at Dan.

Dr. Biran, described as an intense and composed man in his sixties, spoke enthusiastically about the role of archaeology in Israel, comparing the public's engagement to that of Americans with baseball. He explained that the excavations at Tel Dan were initiated because members of a nearby kibbutz named Dan were concerned about their proximity to the ancient site. Children from the kibbutz consider themselves descendants of the Dan tribe, highlighting a deep connection to history.

Dr. Biran was scheduled to present his findings to a seminar led by Professor G. Ernst Wright, president of the American School of Oriental Research at Harvard University. The Tel Dan excavations, which began in the summer of 1966 and continued for two months each summer, had received little public attention prior to this report, as noted by The New York Times on April 3, 1970.

"GÅR VERDEN UNDER I HAT?" (Is the World Going Under in Hatred?) by Hans Lauritzen

This article explores the pervasive nature of hatred in the world today, questioning what truly characterizes the relationships between nations, races, and human groups. The author argues that intolerance, opposition, and hatred are far more common than tolerance, understanding, and cooperation. He posits that hatred often escalates to the point where individuals wish the worst upon their adversaries, leading to murder and war.

Lauritzen suggests that deep within the human subconscious, there is a strong need to hate. He theorizes that throughout human evolution, tribes and races that exhibited strong hatred towards opposing groups, while maintaining strong internal cohesion, were more likely to survive. This dynamic, he argues, explains the intense devotion and effort people invest in their own group when they perceive another group as an enemy.

The article posits that hatred is only one side of a dualistic feeling, the other being devotion. The human psyche strives for balance between these two. When an individual or group identifies an enemy, their aversion or hatred intensifies, automatically strengthening their devotion and cooperation within their own group. This is particularly evident when people are passionate about a cause; they often find themselves strongly opposing something else.

Lauritzen criticizes the idea that hatred is solely a response to external factors, suggesting it's a complex interplay of psychological processes. He states that people often act like machines, reacting without deep reflection to influences that trigger their emotions. The article suggests that this is a costly price for humanity to pay for material progress.

The Role of Hatred in Politics:

Nations preparing for war often employ powerful propaganda to incite hatred against the enemy, motivating their populations to make significant sacrifices. This tactic is still used today in propaganda campaigns aimed at fostering intense hatred towards people in other countries. However, the author warns that this is not solely for the purpose of war, as competition between nations is increasingly driven by economic and political factors.

To achieve rapid progress, populations must be highly active and willing to make great efforts. When authorities try to force greater work output, it often proves ineffective. Instead, many leaders resort to creating adversarial situations with other countries, deliberately provoking intense hatred towards foreign populations. This, in turn, is intended to unite the population against a perceived "enemy," thereby increasing their work efforts. The author notes that people react automatically, like machines, without deeper consideration of their responses to these influences.

This phenomenon, however, comes at a steep price. The intense hatred generated in one country inevitably breeds hatred in others, spreading from nation to nation and person to person, potentially leading to a global catastrophe if not stopped.

The Biochemistry of Hatred:

When a country's propaganda apparatus designates another nation as an enemy and portrays them negatively, biochemical processes are triggered in the human brain, generating feelings of hatred. This involves the activation of various hormones from the pituitary gland, which in turn affect other organs. This creates an active state, which is precisely what those in power seek. Strong muscle movements further stimulate the brain, intensifying these feelings.

Definition of Hatred:

Hatred is described as an activation of the brain, organs, and muscles with the intent to harm or kill. It is almost always linked to other emotions such as jealousy, envy, pride, and ambition. Therefore, hatred can be seen not as an independent emotion but as a sign that other emotions are being activated to cause harm or destruction.

Should Hatred Be Hated?

When people discover they are hated, their natural reaction is often to respond with equal hatred towards their antagonists, perceiving it as unjust. This can lead to a doubling of those who hate, spreading the cycle. The article suggests that the only way to break this cycle is not to hate those who hate, but to try to understand the reasons behind their hatred. Often, these reasons are not even consciously recognized by the haters themselves. The goal should be to explain these deeper causes to them, which may help the feelings of hatred to dissipate.

The author reminds readers of the old saying: "Hat has never ceased through hatred."

Can Hatred Be Avoided?

Yes, hatred can be avoided if people thoroughly understand the psychological and biochemical reactions in their brains that contribute to it. Individuals who understand the causes of hatred and its effects on others will be less likely to hate. Hatred, therefore, exists because it does not understand itself, its causes, or its effects. This makes "blind hatred" a defining characteristic of the most extreme forms of hatred.

The Vietnam War

The article briefly touches upon the Vietnam War as an example of a conflict where hatred between the involved parties was exceptionally strong, even involving children being armed and taught to see the enemy as responsible for their parents' deaths. It notes that children on the "other side" were also armed and taught to hate.

Overpopulation: The Unknown Threat

This section discusses a hidden, enormous danger that humanity is not yet fully aware of, originating from the subconscious mind. Influences from the subconscious affect consciousness, often leading to automatic reactions without deep thought. Most people believe their thoughts and actions originate consciously, but complex biochemical processes, triggered by external impulses, play a significant role.

The article uses an example from the animal kingdom: species that reproduce rapidly can break out without warning when their population reaches a critical limit, entering a state where their self-preservation instincts are overridden. Initially, pairs have ample territory and live harmoniously. As populations grow, territories shrink, leading to increased aggression and nervousness. Adrenaline and other hormones increase, triggering intense drives and activities that can cause animals to suddenly act erratically and lose control.

This phenomenon is observed in various animal species. The article draws a parallel to humans, suggesting that a similar fate might await humanity. The increasing human population, especially in cities, leads to greater stress, nervousness, and adrenaline production. This heightened hormonal activity amplifies emotions and reinforces feelings.

The author notes that in the post-World War II era, population growth has been significant in many countries. He observes that people are becoming increasingly agitated and nervous, with a rise in stress and adrenaline. This, in turn, increases the activity of certain glands, intensifying emotions. The article points out that young people mature earlier, possibly due to diet, and that suicide is the third leading cause of death among teenagers in the USA, largely due to emotional problems. Crimes and especially juvenile delinquency are on the rise.

The article warns that the human race is rapidly moving towards a similar state of self-destruction as observed in overcrowded animal populations. The constant pressure of a growing population leads to a state where individuals may act impulsively and lose self-control, potentially leading to the extinction of the human race.

Greater Research Effort Needed

The article concludes by stating that immense sums are currently spent on exploring space and the world of atoms, but the critical point of human existence may be closer than we think. It calls for a greater research effort into these pressing issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of FAKTA? consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, the historical, and the psychological. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting evidence and theories on topics ranging from archaeological discoveries with potential biblical connections to the complex and often destructive nature of human emotions like hatred. There is a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, including UFOs and psychic events, as indicated by the magazine's subtitle. The article on hatred and overpopulation suggests a concern for societal well-being and a belief that understanding the underlying psychological and biological mechanisms is crucial for addressing these issues. The magazine seems to advocate for deeper investigation into both external mysteries and internal human drives.

This issue of 'Utsikt' (View), identified as issue number 11, focuses on the theme of 'Visitors from Outer Space' ('BESØKENDE FRA DET YTRE ROM'), with a two-part article by Vyacheslav Zaitsev. The content explores ancient myths, religious texts, and artistic depictions that suggest the presence of extraterrestrial visitors and advanced technology in antiquity.

The Bethlehem Star

The article begins by discussing the legend of the 'Bethlehem Star', noting that while some dismiss it as fantasy, others believe it held significance. It references a 2000-year-old tradition and mentions that the star was thought to have wings like an eagle and to move in a circle, even landing like an eagle.

Scientific Collaboration and the Unconscious Psyche

A section highlights the need for greater collaboration between different scientific fields, such as biochemistry, physiology, psychology, and parapsychology, to understand the human psyche. It suggests that current research is fragmented, with each discipline working in isolation. The author calls for a unified approach to investigate the biochemical functions influencing the unconscious and conscious mind, and how external factors can affect the human brain.

Ancient Art and Extraterrestrial Visitors

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to examining ancient art and texts that are interpreted as evidence of extraterrestrial contact.

Dechany Monastery Frescoes

The issue features frescoes from the Dechany Monastery in Yugoslavia, dated to around 1350 AD. These frescoes, published by the Yugoslavian journal 'Svet', are described as depicting angels flying in what appear to be spacecraft. One fresco shows two streamlined craft flying one after another, with pilots inside who do not resemble traditional angels. Another fresco, depicting Christ's resurrection, is interpreted as showing Christ in a rocket-like apparatus.

Ikon of the Resurrection

An icon from the 17th century, housed in the Moscow Theological Academy, also depicts the Resurrection of Jesus Christ in a streamlined object resembling a spaceship, with smoke emanating from its base and a stabilizer.

Mayan and Biblical Interpretations

The magazine explores theories about the origin of humanity, suggesting that humans might be the product of development on another planet. It references Slavic folklore and ancient texts that propose humanity's original development occurred off-world. The article also touches upon Mayan beliefs, where gods were thought to have descended via spider threads.

The 'Lord's House'

Religious texts referring to 'the Lord's house' are analyzed, with suggestions that the term might relate to 'space' or a spacecraft. The biblical account of God descending at Mount Sinai is described with phenomena like thunder, lightning, and a thick cloud, which some interpret as evidence of a landing craft. The idea that ancient temples were built according to blueprints provided by such 'visitations' is also discussed, citing King David's commission to build the Temple in Jerusalem based on a heavenly model.

Time Dilation and Ancient Knowledge

The concept of time dilation, where time passes differently under certain conditions, is explored. A story about the prophet Esaias suggests that two hours in heaven could equate to 32 years on Earth. This is linked to Albert Einstein's theories and ancient beliefs about the relativity of time. The issue posits that some ancient knowledge might be remnants of previous civilizations or derived from contact with extraterrestrial beings.

Other Ancient Accounts

Further examples include a Mayan deity, KUKUMATZ, depicted with features interpreted as technological components, and a Japanese folktale about a man who travels to heaven and returns, finding no descendants. The issue also mentions a Tibetan record suggesting a time before the Moon existed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the possibility of ancient extraterrestrial visitation, the reinterpretation of religious texts and ancient art through a technological lens, and the exploration of humanity's origins beyond Earth. The editorial stance appears to be open to unconventional interpretations of historical and religious narratives, suggesting that ancient cultures may have possessed knowledge or experienced phenomena that align with modern concepts of space travel and advanced technology. The magazine encourages a broader, more collaborative scientific approach to understanding the human psyche and the universe.

This issue of UFO-Kontakt, Volume 2, Issue 3, published in 1969, delves into a range of topics blending scientific inquiry with speculative theories, particularly concerning extraterrestrial life, advanced physics, and emerging technologies.

Articles

Nytt om Mars (News About Mars) by F. W. Kalvik

This article reports on significant findings regarding Mars' atmosphere. Astronomers at the McDonald Observatory in Texas have reportedly found the first absolute evidence of water vapor in Mars' atmosphere. While the water content is low, this observation challenges previous arguments that Mars' atmosphere is too dry to support life. The findings align with theories about the outflow of water vapor from the Martian polar caps, which some interpret as evidence of vegetation. The article notes that this phenomenon, observed as a darkening around the polar cap during spring, moves towards the equator at a rate of approximately 52 km per day. It was previously hypothesized that melting polar ice contributes enough water vapor to support plant life, though this did not explain the color change. While some scientists speculated that the polar caps were covered in dry ice or frozen carbon dioxide, Dr. Smidt believes the new observations confirm a significant amount of water ice on the poles. The Texas observations suggest that Mars' atmosphere contains enough water to produce two cubic kilometers of liquid water. Future observations aim to confirm the existence of oases or particularly humid regions on the planet. The article mentions that the observations were made using an 82-inch reflecting telescope and a spectrograph, which revealed absorption bands characteristic of water vapor in the infrared spectrum. Despite the dry conditions on Earth during the observation period (February-March), the amount of water vapor in Earth's atmosphere was found to be 20 times greater than on Mars. The relative movement of Mars away from Earth during the observations meant that the wavelengths absorbing Martian water vapor were not obscured by Earth's atmosphere. The total moisture in Mars' atmosphere is now estimated to be sufficient to produce two cubic kilometers of liquid water. The article concludes by mentioning that the observers are using a new 107" telescope and a French spectrum analyzer for further studies.

Tachyons - Tankebølger? (Tachyons - Thought Waves?) by Knut AAsheim

This piece explores the theoretical concept of tachyons and draws parallels with the phenomenon of thought waves. The author references an article by Eddie Morild in "FAKTA? nr. 2-1970" which discusses tachyons. AAsheim posits that tachyons, theoretically capable of traveling faster than light, might be the medium for thought waves, which he believes also travel at near-light speeds over vast distances. He questions the constancy of the speed of light in a vacuum, suggesting the universe is not a vacuum. Citing measurements of objects moving at 325,000 km/sec, he implies that the speed of light might not be a universal constant. The article suggests that tachyonic fields could interfere with human minds, spreading like radio waves and being received by individuals attuned to the same frequency. This is likened to how thought waves are thought to propagate, like ripples in water or radio signals, influencing others. The author emphasizes the interconnectedness of all atoms and the impact of every thought, word, or deed on the universe, stating that "ANY THOUGHT, WORD OR DEED IS EITHER DESTRUCTIVE OR CONSTRUCTIVE TO THE UNIVERSE!". He introduces the concept of 'L' as a factor intrinsically linked to thought's strength and boundlessness, suggesting it is omnipresent. The author concludes by leaving it to the reader to ponder the implications of this omnipresent factor.

Isfrie daler i Antarktis (Ice-Free Valleys in Antarctica)

This section, referencing an article from National Geographic Magazine (October 1968) by S. W. Matthews, details scientific expeditions in Antarctica. Nearly 40 scientific expeditions from various countries have established research stations along the Antarctic coast, including at the South Pole. Despite extreme cold and blizzards, these expeditions conduct scientific research, supported by aircraft, helicopters, and snowmobiles. Samples from Queen Maud Land revealed traces of radioactive fallout and air pollution, indicating that human activity has impacted even the most remote parts of the globe. Biologists are studying microscopic life forms that survive in the peculiar ice-free valleys, hoping to understand how life might exist on Mars. Physicists are measuring upper atmospheric disturbances and solar winds that could pose a threat to astronauts. Psychophysiologists are studying sleep and dream patterns to understand the effects of living in confined, isolated conditions, such as in future space stations. The article highlights international cooperation among scientists from a dozen nations, working together on exchange programs without regard for political differences, noting the absence of a "cold war" in this region. It describes the discovery of several ice-free valleys within the vast ice sheet, the reason for which remains a mystery. These valleys are described as desolate, covered in stone and sand, with sparse moss and rivers flowing from glaciers. The article notes that scientists are trying to understand how life might be discovered on Mars.

Hva er Halografi? (What is Holography?) by V. J. Brøndegaard

This article introduces holography as a revolutionary technology with the potential to transform cinema and television. It explains that laser technology has enabled the creation of three-dimensional images, moving beyond traditional film. The author describes how holography works, involving splitting a laser beam to capture an object and its surroundings, then reconstructing the image. This process creates a "hologram," a complex pattern of swirls and dots that, when illuminated by a white laser beam, reconstructs a lifelike, three-dimensional image that can be viewed from different angles. The article emphasizes the remarkable nature of holography, noting that even small fragments of a hologram can display the entire object. It suggests that multiple holograms can be recorded on a single plate without interference, and that images can be captured through various materials like frosted glass, milk, or smoke, even in black and white film, producing color images. The author quotes Dennis Gabor, a British film pioneer, who calls holography the "key to the third revolution of film," predicting that perfect 3D color panorama presentations will be possible within a few years. This technology could make audiences feel as if they are participating in the action on screen. The article also touches upon the potential for holography in television and the challenges of adapting cinemas for 3D film, which would require significant structural changes.

Other Brief Reports

• Russian "Seer": An 11-year-old girl, Vera Petrova, is reported to be able to "see" into her father's metal cabinet by touching it and to "see" through walls when her eyes are covered. Her "skin-sight" functions only when her skin is dry.
• Talking Eggs: Professor Harry D. Muller of Colorado is researching whether eggs communicate with each other before hatching, exploring the possibility of a primitive communication system between eggs that might influence synchronized hatching.
• Underground Temples in Kazakhstan: An archaeological expedition has discovered underground temples dating back to the first centuries AD on the Mangysjlak Peninsula, previously found in similar locations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of scientific discovery and speculative theories, particularly concerning the possibility of extraterrestrial life and advanced phenomena. There is a clear interest in pushing the boundaries of known science, with articles discussing cutting-edge research in astronomy, physics, and technology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards unconventional ideas, encouraging readers to consider possibilities that challenge conventional understanding, as exemplified by the discussion of tachyons and thought waves, and the potential for life on Mars. The inclusion of reports on psychic abilities and archaeological finds suggests a broad definition of "contact" and "phenomena" that extends beyond traditional UFO sightings.

This issue, number 32, features an article titled "HVORDAN OPPFØRER FISKEN SEG I TRÅLEN?" (How Does the Fish Behave in the Trawl?), highlighting a new TV camera system developed by the British.

The British with a New TV Camera

The article details an innovative device developed by the British marine service, described as being as advanced as Asdic and color television. This apparatus provides a 'fish perspective' of the North Sea, allowing for close-up images of trawls and fish schools. It also records how fish react to sounds emitted by the fishing gear and the vessels themselves.

Richard Mitson from the fisheries laboratories in Lowestoft expresses significant enthusiasm for this technology, stating that while Americans might be excited about moon images, they are even more thrilled about the footage captured from the North Sea seabed and fish schools. The advanced equipment, installed on the naval research vessel "Clione," is considered unparalleled in its effectiveness against submarines and has already yielded surprising insights.

Filming in the North Sea presents challenges due to its lack of clarity, which has historically made underwater recording difficult. However, this new equipment overcomes these obstacles.

Applications of the Technology

Beyond studying fish behavior, the system's capabilities extend to identifying shipwrecks. Researchers have found the technology particularly useful for observing how sound affects fish. In one instance, they observed two fish leaders of separate schools swimming towards each other and engaging in what appeared to be a 'conference' before rejoining their respective groups. This observation was relayed to Fishing News.

Quote

The issue includes a quote attributed to Leo Tolstoy: "If you want to reform, you must begin with yourself."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue focuses on technological advancements in marine research and their practical applications in understanding fish behavior and oceanography. The editorial stance appears to be one of highlighting and promoting innovative scientific and technological developments, particularly those with practical benefits for fisheries and maritime research.