Inforespace hors serie - No 06 - 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: Inforespace
Issue: No. 6 hors série (special issue)
Volume: 11th year
Date: December 1982
Publisher: SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux)
Country: Belgium
Language: French

This special issue of Inforespace delves into the evolving landscape of ufology, addressing growing skepticism and proposing new research directions. The editorial by Michel Bougard highlights the financial difficulties faced by SOBEPS and the need for continued member support. It clarifies that SOBEPS's mission is the rational study of UFOs, not necessarily proving an extraterrestrial origin, and aims to combat both blind skepticism and uncritical mystical interpretations.

Articles and Content

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the precarious financial situation of SOBEPS, which was on the verge of collapse due to economic pressures and a decline in membership. It thanks members for their support and announces that measures, including suspending one issue and limiting pages, have helped balance the 1982 budget. The editorial attributes past difficulties to the disaffiliation of members since 1975, citing disappointment and a perceived lack of progress in UFO knowledge as reasons for their departure. It reiterates SOBEPS's commitment to rational investigation and truth-seeking, opposing both dogmatic skepticism and uncritical acceptance of phenomena.

Subscription Renewal Notice

An announcement reminds members that their subscriptions are ending and encourages them to renew for 1983. It provides the subscription rates for ordinary, student, and support memberships in Belgium, France, and other countries, specifying that these include the Inforespace review and one special issue. Payment details for bank transfers and postal accounts in Brussels are provided.

"Quelques réflexions sur les priorités de la recherche" (Some Reflections on Research Priorities)

This main article discusses the increasing number of UFO sightings being explained by conventional means, leading to a growing sense of doubt within the ufological community. It traces the roots of skepticism back to early critics and analyzes the arguments of contemporary ufologists like Michel Monnerie, who questions the very existence of UFOs. The article suggests that sociology and psychology may offer new avenues for understanding the phenomenon, moving beyond purely physical explanations. It critiques the tendency to 'snob' critics and emphasizes the need for a more rigorous and critical approach to UFO research. The author argues that while the idea of UFOs being non-existent is a legitimate question, Monnerie's theoretical framework for this conclusion was flawed and poorly received.

The article further explores the socio-historical reasons for the rejection of Monnerie's ideas, noting that while the possibility of UFOs being a new, original phenomenon was supported by literature, Monnerie's reasons for doubt were more compelling to some. It contrasts two main classes of hypotheses: the 'fantasmagorie' (folkloric and oneiric themes) induced by the phenomenon, and those that attempt a rationalization of the data, including the 'HET' (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis). The author suggests that the latter, while speculative, aligns more with current scientific paradigms, even if it involves concepts like space-time manipulation.

Bookstore Service

A section details books available for purchase from the SOBEPS bookstore, including titles by Michel Bougard, Jean-Gérard Dohmen, and Bertrand Méheust, covering various aspects of UFO research and its relationship with science fiction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes a rational, critical, and scientific approach to ufology. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, seeking truth without succumbing to uncritical belief or dismissive skepticism. The magazine positions itself as a forum for discussion, encouraging members to contribute information and participate in research. There is a clear effort to move ufology forward by acknowledging its limitations, addressing internal critiques, and exploring interdisciplinary approaches, particularly incorporating sociology and psychology into the study of UFO phenomena. The importance of volunteerism and member support for the survival of SOBEPS and Inforespace is a recurring theme.

This issue of "L'ÉCHO DES OVNIS" (Issue 192, February 1980) delves into the complex relationship between ufology and scientific methodology, critically examining the field's inherent biases and the challenges of establishing objective truth.

The Limits of Ufological Rhetoric and the Scientific Paradigm

The article begins by questioning how ufologists can doubt the existence of UFOs (HET) when the field itself, and even some scientists, have contributed to its conceptualization. It argues that the "muddle" within ufology mirrors the historical "muddles" found in the development of established sciences, where advanced explanatory models become deeply entrenched in the prevailing worldview of the time. This phenomenon is illustrated by historical controversies such as the debate over phlogiston, spontaneous generation, and the inheritance of acquired characteristics. The author suggests that the emergence of new scientific disciplines often involves similar struggles against established ideas and societal inertia.

The Monnerie Thesis and the Role of Doubt

The text highlights the impact of Alain Schmitt's research on the "extraterrestrial leitmotif" in ufology, tracing its historical development. It then focuses on the controversial thesis of Monnerie, who is presented as having introduced a "blasphemy" into the field by questioning the very foundations of ufological belief. While Monnerie's thesis is described as imperfect and lacking robust evidence, it is credited with inoculating ufology with a healthy dose of doubt. The author contends that Monnerie's work, though initially rejected, forced a re-evaluation of established ideas and contributed to a more critical approach within the field.

Historical Parallels: From Geocentrism to Quasars

The article draws parallels between the shift from a geocentric to a heliocentric model of the solar system and the challenges faced by ufology. Just as the geocentric model provided a natural place for Earth and humanity in the cosmos, certain ufological theories offer a sense of special significance. The author uses the Copernican revolution as an example of how a fundamental shift in understanding the world is not just about changing a single theory but an entire system of interconnected ideas. The recent "quasar alignment" enigma is presented as another instance where initial assumptions and established theories (like the Big Bang) were challenged, only to be later explained by more mundane statistical processes.

The Problem of Indiscernability and the Psychosociological Hypothesis

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the concept of "indiscernability" between explained and unexplained UFO cases. The author notes that even cases with seemingly strange characteristics can often be explained, and that the tendency to focus on the unexplained minority is a defining feature of ufology. The psychosociological hypothesis (HPS) is presented as a potential framework for understanding UFO reports, suggesting that psychological and social factors play a crucial role. The article argues that while HPS may not be the ultimate explanation, it offers a more testable and potentially comprehensive approach than many existing ufological models.

Methodological Challenges in Ufology

The issue addresses the methodological shortcomings in ufology, suggesting that current methods of investigation and expertise need revision. It calls for a more systematic approach to data collection and analysis, emphasizing the need to avoid pre-conceived notions and to rigorously test hypotheses. The author acknowledges that while the GEPAN (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés) is making progress in this area, ufologists themselves must engage in critical self-reflection regarding their methods.

The Nature of Belief and the Future of Ufology

The article distinguishes between genuine ufological inquiry and the beliefs of those who are predisposed to accept extraterrestrial explanations. It suggests that the phenomenon of UFO reports itself is a valid subject for sociological study, regardless of whether the reports correspond to physical phenomena. The author concludes by emphasizing that the ongoing debate and the complexity of the issues mean that ufology is likely to become even more intricate, requiring a continued commitment to critical thinking and rigorous investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of ufology, the importance of scientific skepticism, the challenges of establishing objective truth in the face of subjective belief, and the need for improved methodologies. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical engagement, advocating for a more rational and evidence-based approach to the study of UFO phenomena, while acknowledging the sociological and psychological dimensions of belief and reporting.

This issue of INFO-OVNI, identified as a special edition with issue numbers 7-8 and dated September 1972, delves deeply into the methodological and theoretical challenges of UFO research. The publication, originating from France, is written in French and focuses on a critical examination of various hypotheses, particularly the psycho-sociological approach, and advocates for a rigorous application of scientific principles.

Theoretical Frameworks and Methodological Debates

The articles critically assess the limitations of current UFO hypotheses, questioning the ease with which some researchers, like Monnerie, propose explanations that may be overly simplistic or driven by preconceived notions. The text emphasizes the need to avoid 'wishful thinking' and to maintain a critical distance from any hypothesis, even those that might seem appealing.

The Challenge of Hypothesis Formulation

A central theme is the difficulty in formulating and selecting hypotheses in the field of ufology. The authors argue that while it is tactically necessary to have a hypothesis to guide research, it is deontologically imperative not to prematurely champion one over others. This leads to a discussion on the 'Cornelian dilemma' of needing a hypothesis for research versus the scientific imperative to remain open and avoid bias.

Popperian Criteria and Falsifiability

The issue extensively discusses Karl Popper's criteria for scientific hypotheses, particularly falsifiability and verifiability. The authors explore how these concepts apply to UFO phenomena, distinguishing between propositions that can be proven false (falsifiable) and those that can be confirmed (verifiable). Examples are given, such as the statement 'All swans are white' (falsifiable) versus 'There exist white crows' (verifiable). The challenge lies in applying these criteria to the often ambiguous and incomplete data associated with UFO sightings.

The 'Non-Existence Hypothesis' and Case Selection

A significant portion of the content is dedicated to the 'non-existence hypothesis' (Ho), which suggests that no genuinely new or original UFO phenomenon exists. The research presented aims to rigorously test this hypothesis by attempting to falsify it. This involves a critical examination of how UFO cases are selected and categorized. The authors highlight the subjective nature of case selection, influenced by the investigator's predispositions, and how this can artificially inflate the percentage of explained cases.

Critiques of Reductionism and the Role of Skepticism

The articles challenge purely reductionist explanations, particularly those that rely heavily on psycho-sociological interpretations without sufficient empirical backing. While acknowledging the value of such perspectives, the authors caution against dismissing the possibility of genuinely novel phenomena. Skepticism is presented not as an obstacle, but as a necessary component of scientific inquiry, providing a critical lens through which hypotheses can be tested.

The 'Laplace Principle Inversé'

An interesting concept introduced is the 'Laplace Principle Inversé,' which suggests that the greater the importance or 'stakes' of a phenomenon, the more rigorously the evidence must be scrutinized. However, the authors argue against applying overly draconian criteria that would render research impossible. Instead, they advocate for a balanced approach that considers the subjective importance of a phenomenon to humans while still demanding robust evidence.

Towards a More Scientific Approach

The issue calls for a more systematic and objective approach to UFO research. This includes defining clear criteria for case selection, acknowledging the limitations of available data, and continuously testing the prevailing 'non-existence hypothesis.' The goal is to move beyond anecdotal evidence and speculative theories towards a more robust understanding grounded in scientific methodology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical evaluation of UFO hypotheses, the application of scientific methodology (particularly Popperian criteria), the challenges of data selection and interpretation, and the critique of overly simplistic or biased explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious scientific inquiry, advocating for a rigorous, evidence-based approach that avoids premature conclusions and acknowledges the complexities of the subject matter. There is a clear emphasis on the process of scientific discovery itself, even if it leads to the confirmation of the non-existence of a novel phenomenon.

This issue of UFO Phenomena, an international annual review devoted to the scientific study of UFO phenomena, was published on May 9, 1982. The journal, with ISSN 0391 111X, is published by EDITECS PUB. HOUSE in Bologna, Italy. The cover headline highlights the "Diapositives de la SOBEPS" (SOBEPS Slides) and includes a price list for these collections.

Alchemy and the Roots of Science

The issue begins with a discussion on alchemy, positing that alchemists were not merely seeking to transmute metals but were engaged in a profound mystical reflection and experimentation. This 'magical quest' is credited with influencing medieval philosophy and giving rise to entire fields of future science, such as chemistry. The text mentions the discovery of the 'Bain-Marie' and the porcelain of Saxe by Jean-Frédérick Boetcher as examples of alchemy's 'spillover' effects into various domains. Several bibliographical references are provided for further study on the epistemology and history of alchemy, including works by Serge Robert, Richard S. Westfall, Gagnon, Crisciani, and Claude Gagnon.

The article contrasts the alchemical pursuit with the modern scientific mindset, cautioning against becoming trapped in the mentality of 'alchemists' or 'blowers.' It draws parallels between ancient legends of the unicorn and the discovery of the white rhinoceros, and between Mesmer's 'animal magnetism' and Von Reichenbach's 'odic fluid,' suggesting that even theories without inherent existence can pave the way for future understanding, such as modern psychotherapy.

Science vs. The Paranormal

A central theme is the "double interpellation between science and the paranormal," where science ultimately prevails. The text argues that science, even when confronted with falsified hypotheses, will always approach truth. This truth is acknowledged as relative, approximate, and limited, but no more so than any other scientific understanding derived from the perception of the world. Despite the limitations of the scientific method, it is presented as the indispensable tool for scientists. Mystical revelations from Sufism or Eastern philosophies are deemed irrelevant to the scientific endeavor, as the ultimate 'Real' remains in the domain of the noumenal and transcendental, forever inaccessible.

This section is attributed to Thierry Pinvidic, dated May 9, 1982.

SOBEPS Slide Collection

SOBEPS offers an interesting collection of slides dedicated to various aspects of the UFO phenomenon. This "slide library" allows users to create their own illustrated presentations. The complete collection comprises 336 slides, divided into 28 series of 12 documents each, presented in plastic sleeves with commentary. Prices are listed for different series and formats (black and white, color), with options for purchasing individual series or the entire collection. A detailed list describing each series is available upon request.

Book Reviews on UFO Phenomena

The magazine features an extensive list of books on UFOs, categorized by author and publisher, with their respective prices in French Francs (FB) and Belgian Francs (FF).

• MYSTERIEUX OBJETS CELESTES by Aimé Michel (Seghers) is described as an awaited reissue and a capital work, focusing on the 1954 French UFO wave.
• LA NOUVELLE VAGUE DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES by Jean-Claude Bourret (France-Empire) compiles excerpts from a France-Inter radio show and interviews.
• LE NOUVEAU DEFI DES OVNI by Jean-Claude Bourret (France-Empire) presents French Gendarmerie files and research by Jean-Pierre Petit on magnetohydrodynamic propulsion of UFOs.
• OVNI, L'ARMEE PARLE by Jean-Claude Bourret (France-Empire) reveals secret files from French military and intelligence services.
• MYSTERIEUSES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES by Fernand Lagarde and the group "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Albatros) offers collective reflections from researchers like Aimé Michel and Jacques Vallée on possible research avenues.
• LE NŒUD GORDIEN OU LA FANTASTIQUE HISTOIRE DES OVNI by Thierry Pinvidic (Albin-Michel) discusses information from French military and American agencies, NASA's studies of UFOs observed by astronauts, and presents eight main hypotheses about UFOs.
• ET SI LES OVNI N'EXISTAIENT PAS ? by Michel Monnerie (Les Humanoïdes Associés) takes a critical stance, suggesting misidentifications are common and proposing socio-psychological explanations for UFO sightings.
• LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES VIENNENT D'UN AUTRE MONDE and BLACK-OUT SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES by Jimmy Guieu (Omnium Littéraire) are presented as French ufology classics.
• SOUCOUPES VOLANTES, 20 ANS D'ENQUETES by Charles Garreau (Marne) summarizes the author's extensive research on UFOs in France.
• FACE AUX EXTRATERRESTRES by Charles Garreau and Raymond Lavier (J-P. Delarge) includes a dossier of 200 landing testimonies in France.
• DES SIGNES DANS LE CIEL by Paul Misraki (Marne) explores the relationship between UFOs and religious phenomena.
• CHRONIQUE DES APPARITIONS EXTRATERRESTRES by Jacques Vallée (Denoël) presents the author's personal views on ufology and a catalog of 900 landing cases.
• LE COLLEGE INVISIBLE by Jacques Vallée (Albin Michel) attempts to link UFOs with para-psychological phenomena.
• LES OBJETS VOLANTS NON IDENTIFIES : MYTHE OU REALITE ? by Dr. J. Allen Hynek (Belfond) explains the importance of serious UFO study and reveals unpublished documents.
• AUX LIMITES DE LA REALITE by J. Allen Hynek and Jacques Vallée (Albin Michel) offers a deep exchange of reflections on UFOs, their analysis, and research avenues.
• LES OVNI EN U.R.S.S. ET DANS LES PAYS DE L'EST by Julien Weverbergh and Ion Hobana (Robert Laffont) details numerous UFO observations from Eastern Bloc countries.
• ALERTE GENERALE OVNI by Léonard Stringfield (France-Empire) summarizes evidence of UFO reality, particularly concerning humanoid beings recovered by secret services.
• LE LIVRE DES DAMNES by Charles Fort (Losfeld) is a collection of unexplained phenomena from space.

Kadath Review

The magazine also promotes "Kadath," a review that served as the basis for the anthology "Chronicles of Lost Civilizations." It is published four times a year, featuring 52 illustrated pages on archaeological enigmas. Subscription details for Belgium and international subscribers are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the scientific approach to understanding UFO phenomena, while acknowledging the historical and philosophical dimensions of related subjects like alchemy and mesmerism. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and analysis, positioning science as the ultimate tool for uncovering truth, even if that truth is relative and limited. There is a clear demarcation between scientific inquiry and mystical or para-psychological speculation, with the former being presented as the only valid path for the journal's scope.