Journal of the Fortean Research Center - Vol 3 No 2

Magazine Overview

This is the July 1988 issue, Volume III, No. 2, of the JOURNAL of the FORTEAN RESEARCH CENTER. The cover prominently features the title "Abductions and the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis" and a price of $3.50. The issue is published quarterly by the Fortean Research Center, a non-profit corporation dedicated to investigating unexplained phenomena.

Table of Contents

The issue includes a "Message from the Editor," "Upcoming Events," "Director's Message," "Mutual UFO Network Symposium Proceedings," and a section titled "Sky Watch."

Message from the Editor

The editor welcomes readers to the July issue, highlighting that it presents a condensed version of lectures from the International MUTUAL UFO NETWORK (MUFON) 1988 Symposium held in Lincoln, Nebraska, from June 24-26. The amount of information presented was considered overwhelming by some. The journal aims to present all information directly from master cassette tapes recorded at the symposium, with the understanding that the statements and opinions expressed are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Fortean Research Center.

Upcoming Events

The next meeting for the Fortean Research Center is scheduled for August 20th. It will be a supper/video meeting starting at 7 pm at the home of director Scott Colborn, followed by a business meeting and a video presentation of "UFO's Are Real."

Director's Message

The director discusses the gap between observing an unknown object in the atmosphere and considering its occupants. The message touches upon the physical, manifest nature of UFO craft, their intelligent control, and their appearance in radar. It references the wealth of books and periodicals available, noting the ongoing debate about the authenticity of UFO photographs. The director concurs with the idea that "Extraordinary phenomena requires extraordinary proof" and suggests that researchers who continue to see UFOs are dealing with a great quantity of reports, many of which involve measurable elements.

The message also delves into the nature of UFO reality and its implications for humanity. It questions the motives of UFO occupants and their desire to "make contact." The southeast Nebraska area is noted as a location where UFO reality interfaces with human experience, citing a case of a woman who, under hypnosis, revealed an encounter with a UFO occupant.

Key Articles and Features

"Hynek's Last Wish for UFOlogy" by Marge Christiansen: This article details a private meeting with Dr. J. Allen Hynek in August 1985, where he expressed a desire to elevate ufology to a professional status. Hynek proposed greater mutual cooperation and reduced duplication of efforts among the three major UFO organizations: MUFON, CUFOS, and the Fund for UFO Research. Christiansen drafted a proposal outlining divisions of duties for investigation, funding, speakers bureaus, symposia, publications, and public information. While the proposal did not lead to immediate action, the 1987 Symposium was a joint effort by MUFON and the Fund for UFO Research.

Jerome Clark - "The Fall and Rise of the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis": Clark discusses the historical perception of UFOs, distinguishing between UFOlogists who sought scientific investigation and those who believed in "angelic space brothers." He notes that until 1964, the primary explanations for UFOs were that they were real and extraterrestrial, or unreal and delusionary. The idea of alien visitors emerged from reports of humanoid beings and the consistency with an extraterrestrial hypothesis. Clark also touches upon the concept of an "official UFO coverup," largely attributed to Maj. Keyhoe. He recounts his own work in 1974, suggesting that humans might be manipulating phenomena rather than being manipulated, and exploring the connection between UFOs and collective unconscious archetypes, influenced by Carl Jung.

Raymond W. Boeche - "Public Reaction to Alien Contact! A Study": This section presents a scenario where the U.S. government reveals a massive coverup concerning unidentified flying objects and their extraterrestrial origin. The scenario describes the alleged recovery of a crashed UFO in New Mexico in 1947 and the subsequent study of its wreckage and occupants. It also mentions a 1949 recovery of another crashed ship with a surviving alien. The scenario culminates with the release of film footage depicting an actual craft and alien occupants. This scenario was presented to psychologists and psychiatrists to gauge public response. A survey of 475 mental health professionals indicated that while immediate panic might not occur, there would be significant interest and curiosity, potential authority crises, and shattering of religious beliefs. The long-term impact on societal structures and ethno-centrism was also considered.

Rev. Barry H. Downing - "UFO's-Four Questions for Theological Seminaries": This paper, presented by Scott Colborn, explores the interface between UFO reality and theology. Downing, a pastor and author, surveyed 100 Christian theological seminaries to assess their openness to UFO questions and their awareness of related theological issues. The paper analyzes biblical references and government secrecy concerning UFOs, arguing for the need for theological seminaries to consider the religious implications of UFOs. The accompanying letter from Downing requests participation in the survey and expresses hope to use the responses in a publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO phenomena, the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis, the professionalization of ufology, and the potential societal and theological implications of alien contact. The journal appears to adopt a stance of serious investigation into unexplained phenomena, encouraging rigorous research and open discussion while acknowledging the complexities and potential controversies surrounding the topic. The emphasis on professionalism and scientific appraisal suggests a desire to elevate ufology beyond mere speculation.

Title: FORTEAN RESEARCH JOURNAL
Issue: 11
Volume: 4
Date: Early Months of 1985 (Issue date inferred as January 1985)

This issue of the Fortean Research Journal delves into the complex intersection of UFO phenomena, theology, government secrecy, and witness testimony. It features a survey on the theological implications of UFOs, an in-depth look at the Gulf Breeze UFO case, and an analysis of the controversial MJ-12 documents.

Theological Implications of UFO Secrecy

The journal opens with a discussion based on a survey conducted in the early months of 1985, which received 26 responses regarding UFO secrecy and its impact on Christian theology. The survey asked whether respondents believed UFO stories should be investigated and how such an investigation might challenge theological knowledge. Rev. Downing's paper, based on years of research and survey responses, suggests that while some believe little would change in Christian theology, others anticipate that theological knowledge would be significantly challenged and expanded. The responses to specific questions indicated a mixed reaction, with a majority not believing that UFO evidence requires proof for investigation within the faith community. The author posits that there is more proof for the existence of UFOs than for many biblical stories, urging seminaries to investigate UFO stories within the context of faith tradition.

The Gulf Breeze Case: A Detailed Investigation

A significant portion of the journal is dedicated to the Gulf Breeze UFO case, presented through a slide presentation by Walter N. Webb and further detailed by Walt Andrus of MUFON. The case, which began on November 11, 1987, in Gulf Breeze, Florida, involved a photographer named Ed who captured numerous photographs of unidentified objects. The investigation, spanning five years and involving interviews across twenty-three states, included hypnotic regressions of witnesses, site analysis, and examination of photographic evidence.

Witness Accounts and Hypnosis

Two primary witnesses, Michael and Janet, reported a dual-witness encounter at a private summer camp on Lake Champlain in Vermont on August 7, 1968. Their accounts, revealed through hypnosis ten years after the event, described a cigar-shaped object and smaller domed discs. Michael also reported an experience on May 1, 1987, involving a craft and a blue beam, which led to a polygraph test that he passed. The investigation also included other witnesses, Susan and Barbera, who recalled similar incidents, though not necessarily abductions. The case is noted for its extensive documentation, including stereo photography and the use of sophisticated techniques to analyze the images.

Photographic Evidence and Skepticism

Ed's photographs from Gulf Breeze were published in the local Sentinel newspaper. The investigation involved rigorous testing, including polygraph examinations, to verify the authenticity of the photographs and experiences. Budd Hopkins, author of "INTRUDERS," also became involved, attempting hypnotic regression and interviewing witnesses, including Ed's daughter. The journal acknowledges the possibility of a hoax, with some suggesting it could be the "most fantastically orchestrated hoax" or a new paradigm for deception. However, the thoroughness of the investigation and the consistency of witness accounts, even when subjected to scrutiny, lend credence to the possibility of genuine phenomena.

The MJ-12 Documents

Jaime Shandera-Independent Producer discusses the MJ-12 documents, a topic he has investigated for six years. He describes himself as a skeptic who insisted on involving media personnel to ensure confirmation from a disinterested third party. The documents allegedly reveal a secret government entity, Majestic-12, composed of twelve high-level individuals responsible for managing UFO-related information. Shandera explains that the government's response to the Roswell crash, if real, would necessitate a cover-up to control the situation and assess national security threats. He emphasizes the need to examine the evidence and determine if the documents are real or a hoax, noting that the system for burying such material is deeply labyrinthine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue highlights the ongoing debate surrounding UFO phenomena, emphasizing the need for serious investigation and open-mindedness, even from theological and scientific communities. The journal appears to adopt a stance that supports the investigation of UFO claims, regardless of initial skepticism, and encourages the scientific and medical communities to engage with the subject matter. The articles collectively suggest that UFO phenomena, whether hoaxes or genuine encounters, represent a significant area of study with profound implications for our understanding of reality, technology, and potentially, our place in the universe. The journal also touches upon the disturbing trend of child and infant abductions, indicating a growing concern within the UFO research community.

The editorial stance leans towards validating the experiences of witnesses and the evidence presented, while acknowledging the challenges of proof and the possibility of deception. The journal aims to foster a more serious and accepted approach to UFO research, moving it beyond the realm of sensationalism into more rigorous analysis and discussion.

This issue of the FORTEAN RESEARCH JOURNAL, dated July 1987, features "Post Abduction Syndrome" as its cover headline, with an article by David M. Jacobs, PhD. The journal also includes astronomical observations and listings of back issues and membership information.

Post Abduction Syndrome by David M. Jacobs, PhD

Dr. David M. Jacobs introduces the concept of "Post-Abduction Syndrome" (PAS), a phrase to describe how people handle UFO abduction experiences and their effects on their lives. He notes that most people who have had these experiences do not wish for them to recur and often wish they had never happened.

Physically, abduction experiences can lead to various effects, including scars, severe eye problems, muscle pains, bruises, vaginal and navel discharges, genital disorders, neurological problems, pregnancy anomalies, and ovarian difficulties.

Psychologically, PAS manifests as a range of symptoms, from minor to debilitating, caused by unrecollected experiences. The severity varies greatly. While many victims can operate normally, some suffer from anxiety and difficulty functioning. Sleep disturbance is a primary PAS problem, with individuals experiencing fear and distress at bedtime, difficulty staying asleep, and disturbing dreams. These sleep issues often resolve when the abductee is away from their own bed.

Fears and phobias are another common symptom. These can range from minor annoyances to serious, life-changing problems. Abductees may develop an extreme fear of being alone, needing constant company. They might also develop sudden fears of specific places, like stretches of road or open spaces, leading them to avoid these areas.

Overwhelming panic can seize individuals when facing routine medical examinations or even visiting a friend in the hospital. Generalized anxiety can escalate into acute panic disorder. Animals with large eyes may also provoke anxiety. Obsessions and phobias related to borderline science subjects, such as UFOs, are also common.

Some individuals experience extreme emotional reactions to images of aliens, feeling horror yet being unable to look away. Unaware abductees may have "bleed-through" memories of strange events, such as seeing someone at the foot of their bed, or experiencing dreams that resurface after decades. These dreams can be interpreted as out-of-body experiences or even near-death experiences (NDEs).

Other PAS symptoms include a feeling of dislocation in location and fears related to relationships with babies and young children, including repulsion towards the birth process. Some may feel they were once pregnant or gave birth. Young individuals might be abducted, have their bodies examined, and their genitals manipulated, which can be particularly shattering as they approach puberty.

Some adults may feel they were molested as a child, even if they don't know who the perpetrator was. In less frequent scenarios, aliens might urge girls going through puberty to breed, conjuring up clinical images of sexual intercourse to instruct them, making the sexual imagery destructive for the victim.

These anomalous dreams, experiences, and depression can lead abductees on a lifelong search for answers. They may feel a connection to a higher cosmic consciousness and the ability to communicate telepathically. They believe something has happened to grant them these abilities.

Jacobs emphasizes that while PAS symptoms can occur in people who haven't been abducted, most abductees exhibit one or more PAS symptoms. It is crucial to investigate each case individually.

He also discusses the difficulty many abductees face in finding professional help. Standard therapy not grounded in the knowledge of abduction experiences often fails to alleviate anxiety. Once an abductee realizes the truth, new concerns arise, primarily isolation. It is hard for them to tell others, who may think they are mentally unstable. Ridicule and derision are common, though some friends may humor the abductee.

Despite these challenges, abductees generally find ways to cope and often find a trusted friend or relative. However, they cannot freely discuss their experiences with just anyone. Competent research investigators can help abductees overcome fears and problems engendered by abduction experiences and memory recovery.

Jacobs concludes that all abductees are victims, comparable to victims of rape or soldiers suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Their trauma is compounded by the inability to remember, with profoundly affecting events stored in their unconscious minds. Alleviation is possible through competent hypnosis and therapy, but only a few researchers possess the necessary knowledge and sensitivity.

Astronomical Observations

Erik Hubl, an astronomical advisor, provides a "Sky Hatch" column detailing upcoming celestial events. He notes that Mars will have its best opposition in 17 years on September 28th, 1986, appearing as a bright red star. He also mentions Saturn will be visible in the summer sky, and Venus will be the brightest planet, though it may appear to waver due to atmospheric conditions. He cautions that planets and bright stars can be mistaken for UFO sightings.

The column also discusses the summer triangle asterism formed by Vega, Deneb, and Altair, and mentions the Autumn Equinox on September 22nd, marking equal day and night. It highlights the Perseids meteor shower peaking around August 12th, with up to 60 meteors per hour. The article explains Universal Time (UT) and the astronomical measure of magnitude.

Poetry and Prose

Several short literary pieces are included:

• "Today is obsolete." by Walter Lowenfels, a contemplative piece about stillness and observation.
• "We are the echo of the future." by W.S. Merwin.
• A prose piece by Paul Eluard about a recurring, yet unrecognized, encounter.
• A short statement by John Cage: "There is not enough of nothing in it."

Back Issues and Membership

The journal lists available back issues with their respective volume, issue number, date, and titles, available for $3.50 each. It also includes a "Membership/Contribution Notice" for the FORTEAN RESEARCH CENTER, with membership available at $15.00 per year, and information on how to make checks or money orders payable to the center.

Help Our Friends

The final pages list several other organizations dealing with the unexplained, encouraging readers to support them financially and in spirit. These organizations include MUFON, Fortean Times, Arcturus Book Service, International UFO Reporter, Spectra, Inc., UFO Contact Center International, Ghost Research Society, UFO, SITU, and Citizens Against UFO Secrecy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the exploration of anomalous phenomena, particularly UFO abductions and their profound psychological impact. The journal adopts a stance of serious investigation into these topics, presenting research and expert opinions like Dr. Jacobs' work on Post-Abduction Syndrome. It also connects these phenomena to broader interests in the unexplained, including astronomy and fortean studies, and fosters a sense of community among researchers and enthusiasts through its listings of related organizations and back issues. The inclusion of literary pieces suggests an appreciation for the subjective and existential aspects of human experience, often intertwined with the unexplained.