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This is a special issue of the "ITALIAN UFO REPORTER", newsletter of the Italian Center for UFO Studies (C.I.S.U.), dated November 1988. It is Issue No. 8 and is dedicated to the "First European Congress on Anomalous Aerial Phenomena: Physical and Psycho-social Aspects", held in…
Magazine Overview
This is a special issue of the "ITALIAN UFO REPORTER", newsletter of the Italian Center for UFO Studies (C.I.S.U.), dated November 1988. It is Issue No. 8 and is dedicated to the "First European Congress on Anomalous Aerial Phenomena: Physical and Psycho-social Aspects", held in Brussels from November 11-13, 1988. The issue presents the full texts of three papers prepared in English by Italian researchers for this congress.
The Italian Papers and the Brussels Congress
The "First European Congress on Anomalous Aerial Phenomena" was hosted in Brussels by the "Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux" (SOBEPS). The Italian Center for UFO Studies (CISU) participated with three papers:
- Edoardo Russo and Gian Paolo Grassino examined the current state of European and American ufology.
- Paolo Toselli focused on recent UFO abduction epidemics, exploring their mystical and psychological dimensions.
- Maurizio Verga discussed the application of computers in ufology, drawing on the Italian experience.
To make these papers accessible to its readers, the "ITALIAN UFO REPORTER" is devoting a 21-page section to them, which will accompany the December issue of their journal "UFO-RIVISTA DI INFORMAZIONE UFOLOGICA".
Towards a European Ufology: Where is America Going To?
This article by Edoardo Russo and Gian Paolo Grassino posits that while national differences, languages, and specificities might suggest a lack of a unified European ufology, one emerges when contrasted with American ufology. Both phenomena and ufology originated in the USA in the late 1940s and were imported to Europe around 1950. For years, both followed similar patterns, with the US often leading towards a scientific approach. However, the authors observe a divergence: American ufology appears to be embracing themes reminiscent of the 1950s (contactees, photo repeater cases, UFO crashes, cover-ups), while European ufologists are increasingly focused on a revisionist approach, examining the IFO (Identified Flying Object) problem and human sciences.
Cultural and historical reasons are cited for this divergence. The authors suggest that Europe is developing its own ufology by contrast, which needs to establish common ground through improved exchanges and methodological standards, rather than a formal federation. The concept of a unified Europe, with the European Community coming into life in 1993, is mentioned as a backdrop for this discussion.
The "language barrier" is identified as a significant reason for national differences, with 14 languages spoken across 18 West-European countries. Historical differences also play a role, with some national ufologies (like France and Great Britain) having a leading role due to wider language use, while others, like Italy, remained more insular. Specific national areas of interest are noted, such as sky-watching in the UK in the '60s, France and Italy in the '70s, and Scandinavia in the '80s. The "Ummo" issue is less prevalent outside Spanish-speaking countries, and humanistic ufology was peculiar to small British groups. The "earthlight" debate and specific UFO types like "lighted toy-balloons" (common in Germany) or "laser-beams" (epidemic in Italy) are also mentioned as national specificities.
The authors state their purpose is to show that, despite these differences, European national ufologies share a common methodological approach. They will contrast European with American ufology (meaning the USA) to highlight this.
The Historical Role of American Ufology
UFO phenomena and ufology were born in the USA in 1947, with Europe receiving them around 1950. The authors jokingly refer to flying saucers arriving in Europe as part of the "Marshall Plan" along with rock'n'roll and "Americana." Classic names in American ufology include Arnold, Mantell, Keyhoe, Lorenzen, Ruppelt, APRO, NICAP, and examples like Project Blue Book, UFO-CAT, MUFON, and CUFOS. American authors like Jacques Vallée and J. Allen Hynek provided terminology and classification systems, while John Keel and Vallée also pointed away from the standard ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis).
In the '50s and '60s, the USA led the way, with Europe contributing less, notable exceptions being Aimé Michel and the "Flying Saucer Review." The evolution of the UFO phenomenon also saw the USA at the forefront: Daylight Discs in 1947, contactees in the early '50s, "soft" and psychical CE's in the late '60s, and abductee epidemics in the mid-'70s. The period 1958-1964 is called the "Dark Age" due to a lull in US sightings, despite concurrent waves in Europe and South America. America was considered the reference point for ufologists worldwide.
What About Europe?
Around the mid-1970s, a shift occurred. While scientific ufology saw France leading with GEPAN from 1977, the change is more evident in the consequences of "paraphysical" ufology. John Keel and Jacques Vallée, whose ideas were less dominant in the US, found greater success among European intellectuals, particularly in Britain and France. This influenced national scenes, with groups like the English "MUFOB" (now "Magonia") and authors like Jenny Randles shifting the focus towards a "humanistic turn." This led to a decrease in "true believers" in alien spaceships among prominent UK investigators.
Vallée's influence also pushed French ufology towards parapsychological overtones in the mid-'70s, involving figures like Pierre Viéroudy, Jean-Jacques Jaillat, and Jean Giraud. This had a significant effect on Michel Monnerie and other "nouvelles ufologues," who turned to skepticism in the late '70s. The revisionist movement, prominent around 1980, also appeared in the USA with authors like Allan Hendry, Richard Haines, and Alvin Lawson, and skeptical articles in the "MUFON UFO Journal" by CSICOP members like James Oberg. However, the American "revisionism" was described as more "pragmatical" than "ideological."
The differences between the US and Europe became visible around 1980, not just in ufology but also in broader cultural trends, with the "American Empire" concept in crisis and European juvenile sub-cultures breaking away from American influence since 1977.
American Ufology Now
The authors note a perceived regression in American ufology, citing Whitley Strieber's "Communion," Budd Hopkins' work on alien abductions, Gary Kinder's book on Eduard Meier, the MJ-12 documents, and the Gulf Breeze case. They feel American ufology seems to be returning to the '50s with "noisy contactees" (now abductees), controversy over photos, "government cover-up" claims, and a focus on alien "pancakes" and "ghost pregnancies." This is contrasted with Europe, where there are fewer UFO crashes, fewer abductions (except possibly in the UK), and smaller government cover-up claims. The US focus on FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) for cover-ups and the alleged Majestic-12 group are highlighted as distinctly American.
The authors suggest that the '80s represent a "helicoid path" rather than a circular one for UFO phenomena. While the "first generation" ETH explained Daylight Discs in the '50s, current trends require less evidence, with a "vague fear" of suppressed alien abduction memories sufficing. European ufologists, in contrast, are exploring different research avenues, moving away from the certainty of the '50s when ufologists acted as public educators promoting the reality of alien spacecrafts. Modern European investigators are described as more rigorous, requiring detailed investigation reports, unlike many '50s cases found only in books.
A key difference is that European ufology no longer dismisses IFOs as "false UFOs." Instead, IFOs are considered a conceptual reality and part of the problem, whereas American colleagues tend to see them as negligible. The ratio of 9 to 1 is mentioned, suggesting IFOs are as interesting and instructive as UFOs.
How Do You Explain That?
The authors attribute the divergence to factors beyond the language barrier. While Americans may not read other languages, they can read British authors, and Europeans can read them. The divergence seems to stem from a conscious choice to take a different path. The authors suggest a socio-ufological perspective where the European "son" has matured and wants to forge its own identity, distinct from the American "father."
Attitudes between American and European ufologists are compared to average societal views: Americans find Europeans too abstract and "behind-ology," while Europeans see Americans as gullible and superficial. The "pragmatical" American culture is contrasted with the "theoretical" European one, exemplified by authors like Haines and Hendry versus Randles and the French "new wave."
Budd Hopkins' call for abduction investigators over theorists is mentioned, highlighting the American emphasis on field work. However, the authors caution that interviewing witnesses without proper background training can lead to confirmation bias. Ironically, abduction researchers who deny psychological implications for percipients may be inadvertently involving themselves in socio-psychological issues.
Media influence is also considered. American media's attitude towards people and vice-versa differs from Europe's. The success of Whitley Strieber's "Communion" in America, contrasted with its cold reception in Europe, is cited. The claim of a lull in US sightings since 1973 is presented as a reason for the focus on older cases, "invisible epidemics" of abductions, and single-witness reports like those of "Ed" or Billi Meier.
Who Is Right?
American ufologists might question if Europeans are still studying UFOs, given the shift away from the traditional ETH. The authors counter that Americans, by focusing on alien spacecrafts they "modestly" label as UFOs, might also be deviating. The idea of studying "unusual aerial phenomena" instead of "anomalous" ones is raised. The authors suggest that present American and European ufologists study different "icebergs": Americans focus on a "massive genetic test campaign by alien intruders," while Europeans examine a "multifaceted 'modern folklore' phenomenon."
The Way Ahead
The authors conclude that two different models of ufology are emerging, each potentially valid. They express concern that the divergence between European and American ufology is leading them in opposite directions, with American ufology rehabilitating contactees and blurring the lines of skepticism. They fear a complete misunderstanding and "incommensurable UFO realities."
While some American colleagues may view European criticism as that of "debunkers," the authors assert that European ufology has evolved beyond a simple believer-vs-debunker dichotomy. They advocate for tolerance of different opinions and acknowledge that no one possesses "the Truth." They propose that ufology itself can be influenced by sociological differences, making distinct national approaches legitimate.
The conclusion is that European ufology de facto exists, characterized by a common "modus operandi" and reasoning style, distinct from the American approach. A different historical course over the last fifteen years has left its mark, making European ufologists ideologically nearer to each other and more distant from the American way. The authors believe America can no longer show the way, and the import channel across the Atlantic is less active. They feel they are walking on their own legs, acknowledging the existence of two distinct ufologies.
They emphasize the need for better contacts and exchanges to define how to improve the situation. Affinities are described as more "ideological" or "methodological," suggesting the common ground for European ufology lies in these aspects rather than a federation. Based on their experience organizing Italian ufologists and participating in international attempts, they are skeptical of international federations' success due to structural differences in national scenes (varying national centers, local groups, rivalries, and logistical challenges).
A more flexible approach is recommended for international cooperation, focusing on establishing common standards (as PICUR attempted) while respecting specific interests. The Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) is presented as an example of an organization that accommodates diverse viewpoints, from skeptics to true believers, and different roles (researchers, educators, investigators, sky-watchers) within a common framework.
Finally, the authors call for closer relationships and interfacing between private UFO researchers, seeing it as necessary to move towards a solution for the UFO problem, leveraging Europe's potential in terms of men, ideas, data, and experiences.
This issue of "THE ABDUCTION MYSTICISM" by Paolo Toselli delves into the evolving landscape of UFO abduction phenomena, exploring its transformation into a more mystical and psychologically complex subject. It also examines the increasing integration of computer technology into UFO research, particularly within the Italian ufological community.
The Abduction Mysticism
The abstract posits that UFO abduction reports have shifted qualitatively, becoming more akin to past contactee experiences and increasingly infused with mysticism. This is paralleled with a rise in religious apparitions in Catholic countries, suggesting a shared underlying 'need.' The article introduces "amnesic ictus," a psychological phenomenon, as a potential explanation for time-lapse cases. The works of Whitley Strieber ("Communion") and Budd Hopkins ("Intruders") are highlighted as marking a new phase in this phenomenon, moving beyond purely ufological accounts towards more personal, introspective, and even esoteric narratives.
The article contrasts contemporary abduction reports with those from ten to twenty years prior, noting a shift from "aseptic medical examinations by 'alien doctors'" to a continuous monitoring of abductees throughout their lives, often beginning in childhood and incorporating typically mystic or esoteric elements. The author suggests that these experiences, while masked in technological imagery, may be addressing a modern Western need for meaning, similar to religious experiences.
The Return of the Contactees
The author argues that the current abduction phenomenon represents a return to contactee themes, but in a new, mystical form. The feature of early "abduction/contact" experiences in childhood or adolescence is compared to reports from the 1970s. An example is given of Jacques Bordas, whose life was changed by an alleged alien intervention involving a dark cake and a promise of future visits, leading to the disappearance of his hormonal deficit. The article notes that many abductees report healing abilities, spiritual awakenings, and a greater interest in philosophical and existential issues, becoming "contactees" in a new sense.
This section also discusses how the extraterrestrial motif can serve as a vehicle for displaying extraordinary knowledge and reinforcing the abductee's conviction in their experiences, positioning them as chosen individuals with valuable insights or as spokesmen for extraterrestrials.
The New Mysticism
The abduction phenomenon is increasingly imbued with mysticism, presenting as religious experiences with a technological veneer. This trend is particularly noted in America during the 1980s, a period of advancements in human embryo transfer and genetic manipulation, raising ethical questions. The article contrasts the prevalence of abduction cases in America with a notable absence of such reports in Europe, where instead, apparitions of the Virgin Mary have surged since 1986. The author speculates that both UFO apparitions in the Americas and Marian apparitions in Mediterranean countries might be expressions of the same underlying need.
Interesting parallels are drawn between "ecstatic trance" phenomena and abductee experiences, including altered time and space perception, body dissociation, and feelings of enhanced ethical energy or divine direction.
A Psychological Approach
Several abduction cases are suggested to be manifestations of psychological disorders, particularly "imagination delirium," characterized by fantastic, para-logical themes rooted in childhood and universal myths. These individuals, while experiencing delirium, maintain a relatively complete personality and social adaptation. The article notes that common delirium themes include "influencing" or personal assault, which bear a striking resemblance to Hopkins' abductee reports.
The author expresses concern that some American ufologists may be uncritically accepting the "new" abduction phenomenology, with some even identifying as abductees themselves. The concept of "amnesic ictus" is presented as a potential explanation for missing time, suggesting that intense emotions, cold exposure, or physical strain can lead to memory gaps without altering consciousness. The article argues that even without "amnesic ictus," "ghost" or "false memories" can be easily created in suggestible individuals seeking value-bringing experiences.
Ultimately, the author posits that the difference between believing oneself chosen by extraterrestrial angels for spiritual redemption or by alien genetic manipulators for scientific purposes is minimal, with ufologists potentially responsible for the latter.
Computer Technology: A Breakthrough in UFO Research
The Italian Example
This section, authored by Maurizio Verga, addresses the historical challenge in UFO research of managing and analyzing vast amounts of raw data. The advent of computer technology, particularly personal computers, has revolutionized this process. The article emphasizes the importance of methodology in handling data, noting that in the past, analyses were often limited to frequency distributions due to time constraints.
Nowadays, personal computers allow for efficient storage, processing, and retrieval of data, making sophisticated analyses feasible. The author highlights the shift from manual card files to computerized systems, enabling ufologists to conduct comprehensive research quickly and accurately. The modern ufologist is increasingly becoming akin to a professional researcher, requiring not only computer hardware and software knowledge but also good organizational skills and methodology.
The article traces the evolution of computer use in ufology, from early attempts at data storage and statistical production in the 1960s and 70s to the widespread adoption of home computers in the 1980s. Initially used for basic tasks like storing files and addresses, computers evolved into sophisticated typewriters and publishing tools.
The Italian UFO Community and Computers
Despite Italy having fewer installed PCs than some other countries, personal and home computers have become fashionable. The Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (C.I.S.U.) recognized the growing interest among its members and founded the "Rete Ufologica Computerizzata" (R.U.C.) or Computer UFO Network in 1986. This initiative has led to unique enterprises in Italy, involving a significant number of people and producing substantial material.
The primary aims of R.U.C. were to store the entire Italian UFO casuistry (approximately 10,000 entries) and produce texts for C.I.S.U. publications. The network has also undertaken projects involving software development, evaluation of commercial software (like astronomy programs), creation of demonstration programs for conferences, and statistical studies of Italian UFO sightings. A special bulletin, "Bollettino R.U.C.," provides detailed information on ongoing projects and useful computer-related information for ufologists.
Computerized UFO Research Projects in Italy
The article details several specific computer-based projects undertaken by Italian ufologists:
1. National UFO Sightings Catalogue: Establishment of a database with over 6,000 entries, available in dBASE III MS-DOS files, covering all Italian provinces. A specific database for Tuscania has been created on an Apple IIgs. Work is in progress to produce a complete print-out, including statistical analyses and 3-D graphics.
2. ITACAT and TRACAT Databases: Two specialized databases created by the author. ITACAT covers close encounters (around 500), and TRACAT covers trace cases. Both are available in dBASE III MS-DOS format for Commodore 64 and Apple II, with detailed statistical surveys and comparisons with other Italian and foreign cases. A 500-page manuscript of ITACAT is available in Wordstar/ASCII MS-DOS files.
3. Demo Programs: Development of demonstration programs for public conferences and events, showcasing CISU, UFOs, and ufology with colored screens and detailed information, available for Commodore 64 and PC-IBM.
4. Foreign UFO Literature Database: A project maintained by Marco Bottaini on an Apple IIgs, cataloging foreign UFO books and publications owned by Italian ufologists, providing abstracts and full references.
5. Astronomical Body Position Analysis: Use of PC IBM and Macintosh computers to check the position of astronomical bodies, aiding in the explanation of nocturnal lights sightings. Computer graphic packages are used to draw sketches and illustrate case sequences.
6. UFO B.B.S. (Bulletin Board System): CISU established the first European Bulletin Board System dedicated to ufology, initially running on an IBM AT. It offered information on UFOs, sightings, catalogues, debates, and CISU publications, accessible via modem. Although currently out of work, another system, "U-Link," is active in Rome. These services are compared to American systems like "Computer UFO Network" and "PARANET."
7. High-Cost CAD System: A professional CAD system is available for scanning photos and slides of UFO phenomena, utilizing a Compaq 386/25 with advanced graphics capabilities for detailed image analysis and manipulation.
Conclusion of Computer Technology Section
The article concludes by emphasizing that these activities represent only a part of the broader application of computer technologies in ufology. Through "THE COMPUTER UFO NEWSLETTER," researchers worldwide are connected, sharing programs and knowledge. The hope is to promote an international computer project for analyzing large quantities of UFO sightings, similar to ongoing work on a Fortean database.
About the Authors
Gian Paolo Grassino is an engineer with a university background in electronic engineering, working as an informatician. He has been involved in ufology since 1974, co-editing "Clypeus-Ufologia" and holding significant positions within the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN), including Secretary and Director of files and archives. He is a founding member of UPIAR Cooperative Society and has published numerous articles. He is also active in the Italian UFO Computer Network (RUC) and coordinates the Italian UFO Data Bank.
Edoardo Russo holds an M.A. in economic sciences and works as a tax and accounting consultant. He has been active in ufology since 1977, serving as editor-in-chief of "Ufologia." He has held leadership roles in CUN, including Foreign Relations Director, and has attended international UFO meetings. He has investigated numerous UFO/IFO sightings and authored the CUN "Field Investigator's Manual." His articles have appeared in various international UFO publications, and he is a frequent speaker and interviewee. He is a founding member of CISU and is involved in the "Italian UFO Reporter" and the Italian UFO Computer Network (RUC).
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the evolving nature of UFO abduction reports, moving from scientific investigation to a more mystical and psychological interpretation. The role of technology, particularly computers, in advancing UFO research is also a prominent theme, showcasing how data management and analysis are being revolutionized. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, exploring various explanations for abduction phenomena, including psychological factors, while also championing the scientific application of technology in the field.
This document appears to be a profile section from a ufology magazine, likely titled "Clypeus-Ufologia" or a related publication, focusing on Italian ufologists. The content is primarily biographical, detailing the backgrounds, interests, and contributions of key figures in the field.