inforespace hors serie - No 07 - 1983

Magazine Overview

This is a special issue, number 7, of the quarterly review 'inforespace', published in December 1983, marking its 12th year. The magazine is the organ of SOBEPS asbl (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux), based in Brussels, Belgium. The cover headline announces the main topic: 'OVNI-OVI: sur un certain état de la question' (UFO-UVI: on a certain state of the question).

Editorial and Organizational Information

The issue provides contact details for SOBEPS, including its address in Brussels and the telephone number 02/524.28.48. Key personnel are listed: Michel Bougard (President), Lucien Clerebaut (Secretary General and Responsible Editor), Pascal Deboodt (Editor-in-Chief), and Christian Lonchay (Treasurer). André Pesesse is listed as the printer.

Table of Contents

• The table of contents includes:
• Avant-propos (Foreword)
• Abonnement et cotisation pour 1984 (Subscription and dues for 1984)
• OVNI-OVI : sur un certain état de la question (2) (3) (UFO-UVI: on a certain state of the question (2) (3))

A note clarifies that signed articles engage only the responsibility of their author.

Foreword (Avant-propos)

The foreword, signed by Michel Bougard, explains that this special issue is a continuation of an article started in a previous number (Inforespace no. 63). The text by Claude Maugé is deemed too important to be published in installments and is presented as a capital document for understanding contemporary ufology. Bougard praises Maugé's synthesis, stating that the study will serve as the obligatory starting point for any new reflection on the subject. He positions this work as a bridge between the 'end of the beginning' and the start of a more refined ufology, free from outdated constraints. He acknowledges that the path may be difficult, involving doubt and renunciation, but ultimately leads to renewed enthusiasm. Maugé's study is presented as an invitation to revisit the tools of ufological research, recognizing that early attempts may have been crude and some researchers may have strayed, but the emerging paths suggest that the field is far from over.

An editorial note (N. D. L. R.) apologizes for errors in a previous article by C. Maugé and states that a complete erratum will be published in Inforespace no. 65.

Subscription and Dues for 1984 (Abonnement et cotisation pour 1984)

This section clarifies the subscription options for 1984, correcting an error in a previous issue. There are three formulas:
1. Habitual subscription: 550 FB (100 FF), includes four issues of Inforespace (including the special issue).
2. Support subscription: 700 FB (130 FF), includes the four issues of the review plus a choice of one book from a list in no. 64 or a full year of Inforespace (1973-1982).
3. Member d'Honneur subscription: 1000 FB (150 FF), includes all benefits of the support subscription plus a special Member d'Honneur card.

The association encourages members to use the latter two options to provide financial support and build their libraries, noting that postage costs are included. Members are asked to specify their choice of book or year when using the support subscription.

Article: OVNI-OVI: On a Certain State of the Question (Part 2 & 3)

This extensive article, authored by an unnamed contributor, critically examines the arguments for UFOs being fundamentally original phenomena. It analyzes various aspects of ufological research, including:

5. Arguments for a Fundamentally Original UFO Phenomenon

5.1. The Problem of Proof: The author references P. Guerin's critique of Laplace's methodological rule, which suggests increased skepticism for extraordinary claims. Guerin argued for diligently searching for the most tenuous indices of UFO existence, but the author stresses the need for rigorous proof. The section discusses the current value of evidence for UFO existence.

5.2. Existence of Reliable and Irreducible Cases: This section discusses the importance of 'solid' cases, acknowledging that while thousands of reports exist, only a few dozen might be sufficiently documented. The author critically analyzes examples cited by P. Guerin, such as the Turin case (potentially explained by Venus) and the Hill case (questionable radar confirmation).

5.3. Mutual Authentication of Cases: Guerin's argument that correlations between distinct UFO cases provide significant proof is examined. The author points out that this argument is weakened if the number of 'solid' cases is small. The discussion highlights the issue of UFO-OVNI indiscernability, meaning that many non-identified cases might actually be explainable phenomena. The author scrutinizes the Aische-en-Refail case, questioning its reliability and potential connections to other cases and witness backgrounds.

5.4. Coherence from Statistics: The article questions the validity of statistical analyses of UFO sightings, citing previous warnings from R. Fouere, D. Caudron, and J. Scornaux. The 'Hill theory' suggests that the reporting rate of unusual phenomena is biased, making global statistical analyses potentially misleading. A significant criticism is that most files used for statistics, even those claiming to describe 'quasi-OVNIs', are largely explainable, doubtful, or inconclusive.

5.5. Combination of Arguments: The author revisits Guerin's conclusion that the three types of evidence (testimonial, statistical, and correlational) should lead to acceptance by an intellectually honest person. However, the author argues that two of these types of evidence (statistical and correlational) are less solid than Guerin believed in 1977, and the coherence of the extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET) might be illusory.

5.6. Existence of Quasi-Exhaustive and Coherent Explanatory Models: The extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET) is discussed as the most widespread model. While it has roots in exobiology and speculative arguments, the author notes that the idea of 'necessity' for inhabited celestial bodies is relatively recent. The article critiques research on propulsion based on doubtful cases, such as those by J. McCampbell, and the reliance on landing cases from the Vallée catalogue. The author also touches upon the 'Fermi paradox' and the possibility of being alone in the universe. The discussion extends to the suppression of sonic booms and the possibility of silent flight, referencing E. Schatzman's earlier dismissal of such possibilities.

5.7. Existence of Material Evidence: The article questions the solidity of alleged UFO debris, finding most cases to be explainable or lacking conclusive evidence. While 'angel hair' phenomena are mentioned, their analysis is also deemed problematic. The author critiques A. Michel's interpretation of Paleolithic cave paintings as representations of UFOs, pointing out discrepancies and alternative interpretations, including sexual symbolism and potential misinterpretations of signs.

Critical Analysis of Sources and Methods

The article frequently references and critiques specific ufological works and authors, including:

• P. Guerin: His arguments on proof, irreducible cases, and statistical coherence are analyzed and often countered.
• J. Scornaux: Cited for his work on 'orthoteny' and critiques of statistical data.
• J. Vallée: His 'Hill theory' and catalogue of landing cases are discussed.
• J. McCampbell: His research on propulsion based on landing cases is questioned.
• A. Michel: His interpretation of cave paintings is critically examined.
• E. Schatzman: His views on the 'bang' phenomenon and the possibility of extraterrestrial life are discussed.

The author emphasizes the need for rigorous methodology, critical evaluation of evidence, and awareness of potential biases and misinterpretations in ufological research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of evidence and arguments within ufology. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for a rational and rigorous approach to the study of unidentified aerial phenomena. The article systematically deconstructs common arguments used to support the extraterrestrial hypothesis and the originality of UFOs, highlighting methodological flaws, questionable data, and alternative explanations. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of distinguishing between actual evidence and speculative interpretation, and on the need for caution when drawing conclusions from limited or biased data. The issue champions a scientific mindset, urging readers to critically assess claims and avoid succumbing to preconceived notions or 'myths'. The publication itself, SOBEPS, positions itself as a society for the 'rational study' of these phenomena.

This issue of "Phénomènes Spatiaux" (issue 7, March 1966), published by GEPAN, delves into a critical analysis of ufology, primarily from a French perspective. The content is largely textual, with minimal visual elements, and focuses on dissecting the arguments and methodologies within the field. The magazine appears to be a platform for in-depth, often critical, discussion of UFO phenomena and the community surrounding it.

Analysis of Ufological Arguments

The article begins by addressing the perceived attempts by some ufologists, like P. GUERIN, to defend their beliefs in the face of lacking evidence, citing the Trans-en-Provence case as a potential 'ultimate lifeline'. It then critiques the use of folklore and historical chronicles as proof of UFO existence, arguing that most are misinterpretations of natural phenomena or fictional accounts.

The author systematically deconstructs various arguments used to support the existence of UFOs, labeling them as philosophical or ideological presuppositions rather than valid evidence. These include arguments based on official attitudes, the idea that 'negators' are anthropocentric, and the claim that UFO phenomena are inherently inexplicable by current science. The article suggests that 'debunking' can be explained by military or political security reasons, as seen with the ROBERTSON Commission, rather than a hidden agenda to conceal UFO truths.

It highlights the tendency for some ufologists to reject scientific discoveries or to misinterpret them to fit their preconceived notions. The critique extends to the 'intelligentzia' and scientists' rejection of UFO phenomena, attributing it to the 'fantastic' nature of media reports, the unreliability of the ufological milieu, and the lack of universally convincing proof.

A significant portion of the text is dedicated to refuting specific claims made by authors like M. PICARD, particularly concerning the nature of dreams and sleep, and the detection of amino acids in interstellar space. The author points out numerous errors and misinterpretations in PICARD's work, suggesting that his arguments are often based on flawed data or outdated information.

The Problem of Indiscernability and Ufological Milieu

The article introduces the concept of 'indiscernability' between UFOs (OVNI) and other phenomena (OVI), suggesting that many reported UFO cases are not unique but can be explained by known or analogous phenomena. It criticizes the ufological community for its lack of critical thinking, its tendency to accept unsubstantiated claims, and its susceptibility to 'belief systems'. The author notes that many ufologists fail to rigorously examine evidence, leading to amalgams of unrelated phenomena and significant errors in their databases.

• Several 'postulates' of ufology are identified and critiqued, including:
• The 'besieged fortress' postulate: Dismissing all external criticism and trusting only those within the ufological community.
• The 'residue postulate': Equating unexplained cases with unexplainable ones, often leading to the conclusion of extraterrestrial craft.
• The 'unique origin' postulate: Assuming all UFO phenomena stem from a single, often extraterrestrial, source.
• The 'independence of UFOs and OVIs' postulate: Treating UFOs as entirely separate from other known phenomena.

The author also points out the 'syndrome of Zorro' and 'syndrome of Raminagrobis,' which describe how ufologists can twist evidence to fit their conclusions or always find a way to maintain their beliefs.

Towards a Socio-Psychological Model

Despite the critique, the article acknowledges that the lack of critical thinking and the indiscernability of phenomena do not definitively disprove the existence of UFOs. However, the combination of these factors is seen as 'destabilizing' for ufology, suggesting that most published cases and theories are of little scientific value.

The author proposes that a socio-psychological model (MSP) is the most plausible explanation for the vast majority of UFO reports, accounting for 99.9% of cases. This model posits that human psychological and sociological factors are the primary drivers behind these phenomena. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine, rare extraterrestrial or parapsychological phenomena, the focus is on explaining the bulk of reports through human-centric causes.

The article traces the development of the socio-psychological approach, crediting M. MONNERIE and A. HENDRY for their contributions. It suggests that the coherence observed in the UFO phenomenon largely arises from human factors. The author also touches upon the historical development of the 'extraterrestrial myth' and its influence on how UFO cases are interpreted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around a critical examination of ufology as a discipline. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of the prevailing 'extraterrestrial hypothesis' and advocates for a more rigorous, scientific approach. There is a strong emphasis on the need for critical thinking, objective analysis, and the application of established scientific principles, including psychology and sociology, to understand UFO phenomena. The article champions the socio-psychological model as a more rational and evidence-based framework for interpreting the majority of reported cases, while not entirely dismissing the possibility of genuinely anomalous phenomena.

This issue of Inforespace, dated September 1982 (no. 63), is a French publication focusing on ufology, with a particular emphasis on the psychological and sociological aspects of UFO phenomena. The main author, Claude Maugé, presents a detailed analysis of various theories and case studies, critically examining the evidence and the potential for misinterpretation.

Analysis of UFO Phenomena

The article begins by exploring the diverse range of subjective experiences reported by UFO witnesses, including alterations in perception, time distortion, and feelings of the ineffable. It considers whether genuine UFOs might induce such states or if these are primarily psychological phenomena, such as 'waking dreams' (rêve éveillé) or 'out-of-the-body experiences' (OBE).

Psychological and Cognitive Mechanisms

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to understanding the perceptual and cognitive mechanisms that might transform ordinary stimuli into 'UFO' experiences. The author discusses the influence of individual factors like motivations, expectations, and personality, as well as socio-cultural factors, on perception. The work of researchers like S. Blackmore, M. Jimenez, and P. Toselli is highlighted. Toselli's model, which categorizes experiences into 'misinterpretation,' 'projective transformation,' and 'projective elaboration,' is presented as a valuable framework for understanding how mundane events can be perceived as UFOs.

Social Transmission of Information

The issue also examines the role of social transmission of information, including the impact of media, rumors, collective delusions, and 'mass hysteria.' Examples like the Seattle 'windshield pitting' epidemic and the 'phantom anesthetist' of Mattoon are used to illustrate how social factors can amplify and shape perceptions of anomalous events. The pervasive knowledge of the 'UFO concept' and the high percentage of people who have heard of or believe in UFOs are noted as crucial elements in understanding the phenomenon.

The Construction of the UFO Myth

Claude Maugé argues that the 'UFO myth' has deep roots in Western culture, evolving from early ideas of extraterrestrial visitation for moralistic purposes to more complex narratives influenced by science fiction and the space race. The article traces the development of the extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET) and its cultural impact, suggesting that the UFO phenomenon, as it emerged in 1947 with Kenneth Arnold's sighting, is a modern manifestation of older themes of the marvelous and the unknown.

Critiques of the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET)

The author is critical of the HET, suggesting that many 'unidentified' cases can be explained through psychological, sociological, or even geophysical factors. He points to the limitations of statistical arguments and the unreliability of much ufological research. The article also discusses alternative hypotheses, such as the socio-psychological hypothesis (HSP) and the physico-psycho-sociological hypothesis (HPPS), which emphasizes the role of geological stresses and electromagnetic fields.

Alternative Hypotheses and Future Directions

While acknowledging the complexity of the UFO phenomenon, Maugé leans towards a socio-psychological framework, augmented by physical factors, as the most promising avenue for research. He stresses the need for rigor, honesty, and a critical approach to dissecting the 'socio-psychological gangue' that has enveloped the UFO topic. The article concludes by emphasizing that while much remains to be done, the socio-psychological approach, combined with an open mind to physical explanations, offers a viable path forward.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the psychological and sociological underpinnings of UFO sightings, the critique of the extraterrestrial hypothesis, and the importance of rigorous, interdisciplinary research. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, advocating for a move beyond simplistic explanations and a deeper understanding of the human factors involved in interpreting anomalous phenomena. The author expresses a degree of skepticism towards the HET, while remaining open to the possibility of genuine, yet-to-be-explained phenomena, provided they are approached with scientific rigor.

References

The issue includes an extensive bibliography, listing numerous works on ufology, psychology, sociology, and related fields, indicating the depth of research underpinning the article. Key references include works by J.N. Kapferer, B. Dubois, M. Monnerie, A. Schmitt, P. Toselli, and many others, covering a wide range of studies on UFO sightings, psychological experiences, and social phenomena.

Title: INFO-ESPACE
Issue: 6
Volume: 3
Date: October 1984
Publisher: INFO-ESPACE
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0391-111X
Cover Headline: MYSTERIEUSES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES

This issue of INFO-ESPACE is dedicated to a comprehensive review of books on UFOs and related phenomena, offering readers a curated selection of significant works in the field. The magazine also touches upon archaeological mysteries and international ufological publications.

Book Reviews: A Deep Dive into Ufology

The core of this issue is an extensive list of book reviews, providing summaries, authors, publishers, and prices for a wide array of ufological literature. The reviews cover various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, from historical waves to scientific investigations and speculative theories.

Key Books and Authors Reviewed:

• MYSTERIEUX OBJETS CELESTES by Aimé Michel (éd. Seghers): Described as a capital work and an awaited reedition, this book is an extensive inquiry into the 1954 French UFO wave, written by a pioneer of ufological research. Price: 440 FB.
• LA NOUVELLE VAGUE DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES by Jean-Claude Bourret (éd. France-Empire): This work compiles the best extracts from a France-Inter radio emission and includes interviews and cases not broadcast by the station. Price: 320 FB.
• LE NOUVEAU DEFI DES OVNI by Jean-Claude Bourret (éd. France-Empire): Features files from the French Gendarmerie, unpublished investigations, and recent opinions from leading French researchers, particularly highlighting Jean-Pierre Petit's work on the magnetohydrodynamic propulsion of UFOs. Price: 365 FB.
• OVNI, L'ARMEE PARLE by Jean-Claude Bourret (éd. France-Empire): The fourth book by the TF-1 journalist, revealing secret files from intelligence services and numerous reports from the French Army and Gendarmerie. Price: 340 FB.
• MYSTERIEUSES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES by Fernand Lagarde and the group "Lumières dans la Nuit" (éd. Albatros): A collective work presenting reflections from researchers like Aimé Michel and Jacques Vallée, and suggesting avenues for in-depth study of the phenomenon. Price: 350 FB.
• LE NŒUD GORDIEN OU LA FANTASTIQUE HISTOIRE DES OVNI by Thierry Pinvidic (éd. Albin-Michel): Explores what is known at the highest levels of French military and US governmental hierarchies. It reveals studies by NASA on UFOs observed by astronauts and the United Nations' stance on the issue. Pinvidic also analyzes eight principal hypotheses. Price: 375 FB.
• ET SI LES OVNI N'EXISTAIENT PAS ? by Michel Monnerie (éd. Les Humanoïdes Associés): An intelligent and courageous book arguing that misidentifications are more common than believed, proposing a socio-psychological hypothesis to explain UFO sightings. Price: 325 FB.
• LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES VIENNENT D'UN AUTRE MONDE and BLACK-OUT SUR LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES by Jimmy Guieu (éd. Omnium Littéraire): Two classics of French ufology, recently re-edited. Price: 265 FB per volume.
• SOUCOUPES VOLANTES, 20 ANS D'ENQUETES by Charles Garreau (éd. Mame): The author, a pioneer of serious UFO research in France, reviews his long experience. Price: 250 FB.
• FACE AUX EXTRATERRESTRES by Charles Garreau and Raymond Lavier (éd. J-P. Delarge): Includes a dossier of 200 testimonies of landings in France. Price: 395 FB.
• DES SIGNES DANS LE CIEL by Paul Misraki (éd. Mame): A reflective work exploring the relationship between UFOs and religious phenomena from an original angle. Price: 320 FB.
• CHRONIQUE DES APPARITIONS EXTRATERRESTRES by Jacques Vallée (éd. Denoël): Presents the author's personal views on ufology, including a catalogue of 900 landing cases. Price: 345 FB.
• LE COLLEGE INVISIBLE by Jacques Vallée (éd. Albin Michel): Attempts to link UFOs with para-psychological phenomena. Price: 310 FB.
• LES OBJETS VOLANTS NON IDENTIFIES: MYTHE OU REALITE ? by Dr J. Allen Hynek (éd. Belfond): Dr. Hynek explains why serious study of the UFO phenomenon is necessary, revealing unpublished documents and his conception of the studies to be undertaken. Price: 340 FB.
• AUX LIMITES DE LA REALITE by J. Allen Hynek and Jacques Vallée (éd. Albin Michel): A profound exchange of reflections on the nature of UFOs, key cases, their analysis, and current research avenues. Price: 395 FB.
• LES OVNI EN U.R.S.S. ET DANS LES PAYS DE L'EST by Julien Weverbergh and Ion Hobana (éd. Robert Laffont): For the first time in French, a dossier on numerous UFO observations from Eastern Bloc countries. Price: 440 FB.
• LE LIVRE DES DAMNES by Charles Fort (éd. Losfeld): The first reviewer of curious space phenomena, Fort compiled an incredible collection of facts, most of which remain unexplained. Price: 350 FB.

Other Publications and Features

• < KADATH >: This section announces the magazine 'Kadath', which served as the basis for the anthology "Chroniques des civilisations disparues." It is published by Robert Laffont and appears four times a year, with 52 richly illustrated pages dedicated to the enigmas of archaeology. Contact information is provided: Boulevard Saint-Michel, 6 boite 9, 1150 Bruxelles. Tel: 02-734.82.91.
• FIRST ACADEMIC JOURNAL UFO PHENOMENA: An international annual review devoted to the scientific study of UFO phenomena, with ISSN 0391-111X. The editor-in-chief is R. Farabone, and the managing editor is F. Izzo. Published by EDITECS PUB. HOUSE, P.O. BOX 190 - I-40100 BOLOGNA.
• « LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT »: A journal of international reputation dedicated to mysterious celestial objects and related problems. Located at F - 43400 Le Chambon-sur-Lignon. The editorial states that European ufology should prioritize complementarity over competition and encourages readers to familiarize themselves with L.D.L.N., hoping for reciprocity.

Commercial Information

The issue also includes advertisements for optical precision instruments from P. SLOTTE, located at Chaussée d'Alsemberg 59, 1060 Bruxelles. They offer services such as maintenance, adjustments, reconditioning, repairs, fabrication, and sell binoculars, terrestrial and astronomical telescopes, rifle scopes, microscopes, etc. Their phone number is (02) 537 63 20.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the exploration and documentation of UFO phenomena through book reviews, highlighting both classic and contemporary works in ufology. The editorial stance, particularly in the note about "LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT," emphasizes collaboration and complementarity within the European ufological community. There is a clear focus on presenting a wide range of perspectives, from scientific research to historical accounts and even skeptical viewpoints, as seen in Michel Monnerie's book.