JUFOF - Issue 083 - 1992 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of the German journal "JUFOF - Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 5 of volume 13, dated September-October 1992, is published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP) and has an ISSN of 0723-7766. The cover price is DM 5.00. The main cover headline is "DIE BETRACHTUNG DES UFO-PHÄNOMENS UND DER PRA-ASTRONAUTIK AUS PARAPSYCHOLOGISCHER SICHT" (The Consideration of the UFO Phenomenon and Pre-Astronautics from a Parapsychological Perspective) by Frank Oschatz. The issue also features articles on the AAS meeting in Lüdenscheid, medical and ethical problems in abduction research by Dr. med. David A. Gotlib, and a literature review section.

GEP Sonderheft 14: UFOLOGIE - Theorien und Tatsachen über Fliegende Untertassen

On the first page, a special edition (Sonderheft 14) by Dieter von Reeken titled "UFOLOGIE - Theorien und Tatsachen über Fliegende Untertassen" (Ufology - Theories and Facts about Flying Saucers) is advertised. This is a reprint of the 1981 edition, unchanged, and is available for DM 12.00 (or DM 9.60 for GEP members). It is described as a valuable resource for those interested in the topic, offering insights and information that are still relevant.

Editorial and New Rubric

In the "Liebe Leser!" (Dear Readers!) section, editor Gerald Mosbleck introduces changes to the journal, including a new rubric "Liebe Leser!" where he and co-editor Hans-Werner Peiniger will share their opinions and provide an overview of the issue's content. Mosbleck notes that due to Peiniger's inability to produce this issue, the focus shifts from typical UFO sightings to the connection between parapsychology and UFOs. He highlights Dr. Gotlib's article on the ethical treatment of UFO witnesses, particularly abductees, as essential reading. The section also briefly mentions the AAS meeting in Lüdenscheid and literature reviews.

Article 1: The Consideration of the UFO Phenomenon and Pre-Astronautics from a Parapsychological Perspective

Frank Oschatz's article explores the UFO phenomenon through the lens of parapsychology. He begins by discussing the scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) and the vastness of the universe, suggesting it's improbable that Earth is alone. Oschatz differentiates between the general term UFO (unidentified flying object) and the specific interpretation of extraterrestrial visitors, citing Johannes von Buttlar's view. He recounts the 1947 Kenneth Arnold sighting as the origin of the 'flying saucer' term, noting the media's sensationalism. The article posits that while most sightings have conventional explanations, a small percentage remain unexplained, particularly those involving physical interactions. Oschatz references a French CNES study that found evidence of contact, influencing plant chlorophyll and carotene. He also discusses Ernst Meckelburg's theory of visitors from the future and the idea that extraterrestrials might be observing humanity. The author connects these ideas to the loss of spiritual ideals in modern society, suggesting UFOs might represent a modern form of 'gods'. He introduces the concept of "AUBERSINNLICHEN WAHRNEHMUNG" (ASW - supersensory perception), which he argues is scientifically demonstrable and includes telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, and retrocognition. Oschatz suggests that ancient myths and religious visions could be interpreted as ASW experiences, potentially related to pre-astronautics theories, citing Erich von Däniken. He proposes that extraterrestrials might use ASW to observe Earth and that open-minded individuals might psychically perceive these beings, leading to subjective experiences or hallucinations of their appearance. He also touches upon psychokinesis and the potential for psychic influence to explain physical phenomena like the plant changes observed in a garden.

Article 2: Who Speaks for the Witness? Medical and Ethical Problems of Abduction Research

Dr. med. David A. Gotlib addresses the ethical and medical challenges faced by psychotherapists and researchers dealing with UFO abductees. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the witnesses' experiences, recognizing trauma, and maintaining confidentiality. Gotlib outlines the distinct roles of researchers (gathering and verifying information) and therapists (providing care and facilitating integration of experiences). He stresses that the witness's well-being is paramount and that researchers should not exploit or further traumatize individuals. The article details different categories of abductees: those who have integrated the experience, those seeking partial integration or therapy, and those who are severely traumatized and require professional help. Gotlib highlights the potential for harm when researchers lack proper ethical training or when information is mishandled, citing an example where a 'support group' further traumatized a witness. He advocates for a collaborative approach between researchers and therapists to ensure the ethical and effective treatment of abductees, emphasizing the need for a clear distinction between research data and therapeutic process.

Article 3: The Encounter with a Patient

This section, continuing from the previous article, delves deeper into the practical aspects of dealing with patients who report abduction experiences. The author, likely a therapist, outlines their ethical and legal obligations, including conducting thorough medical and personal histories, performing differential diagnoses, and discussing potential interventions. They emphasize the importance of not automatically attributing all patient complaints to abduction experiences, while still respecting the validity of the abduction narrative for the patient. Confidentiality is stressed, with the therapist bound by law to protect patient information. The author advises patients against discussing therapeutic details with researchers until the process is complete, to avoid external influence and potential emotional distress. The article also discusses the researcher's request for anonymous information for databases and the need for patient consent regarding the sharing of information, particularly when it involves medical records or scientific findings. The author refuses to sign waivers that grant broad access to patient information without explicit, informed consent.

Article 4: The Encounter with a Patient (Continued) and Other Existing Conditions

The author continues to discuss the treatment of patients, emphasizing that each case is unique and depends on the patient's perceived needs and medical requirements. They highlight the responsibility to diagnose and treat other medical issues that may arise, noting that in one case, a patient seeking abduction regression therapy was found to have underlying trauma unrelated to UFO experiences. The author also touches upon the concept of "Traumatischer Grundsatz" (Traumatic Principle), explaining that the degree of trauma depends on how dangerous the experience is perceived to be by the individual. This ranges from viewing ETs as benevolent to fearing them as manipulators.

Article 5: Verbs and Other Conditions

This section discusses the different ways individuals process abduction experiences. Some integrate them fully, viewing them as external to their understanding, while others seek therapy or partial integration. A third group is severely traumatized, exhibiting symptoms like depression, insomnia, anxiety, and recurring nightmares, potentially requiring professional help. The author recounts an instance where a patient's symptoms were exacerbated by reading about UFOs, leading them to seek therapeutic intervention. The article suggests that abductees should have access to medical and psychological evaluations similar to victims of other traumatic events.

GEP News and Events

The journal also includes organizational news. The GEP held its annual general meeting on August 21st in Lüdenscheid, where the board was re-elected. Discussions were held regarding changes to the JUFOF's appearance and potential amendments to the statutes to extend the board's term due to declining interest in general meetings. New members are welcomed. Additionally, a report on the "ONE-DAY-MEETING DER AAS IN LÜDENSCHEID" (One-Day Meeting of the AAS in Lüdenscheid) is provided, featuring a presentation by Erich von Däniken and a talk by Rolf Linnepe on his trip to Peru and Bolivia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of UFO phenomena, parapsychology, and the human experience of anomalous events. The journal consistently explores unconventional explanations for UFO sightings, often linking them to psychological, historical, or even spiritual interpretations. There's a strong emphasis on the ethical treatment of witnesses and the need for rigorous, yet compassionate, research. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging its complexities and the potential for subjective experiences to be intertwined with objective investigation. The GEP positions itself as a serious scientific body dedicated to understanding these phenomena, while also recognizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the psychological impact on individuals involved.

This issue of the German publication "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 83 from May 1992, delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, ancient mysteries, and related conspiracy theories. It features a mix of articles, book reviews, and reports on ongoing research and events within the UFO community.

AAS Day and Presentations

The issue begins by detailing a recent AAS (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für UFO-Forschung) day event. A planned 25-part TV series for the private broadcaster SAT 1 on AAS themes is announced, with a preview episode impressing the audience with its depiction of ancient structures and "astronaut gods" using elaborate special effects. The series is slated to begin in January 1993.

The event featured several presentations by "hobby paleontologists" and researchers. Thomas Ritter and Annett Mann discussed the "stone library of Ica," leaving open the question of its origin from "Kasskara." Peter Fiebag gave a slide lecture on the Maya, while Peter Krassa and Reinhard Habeck presented on "Egypt's Gods" and the "light bulb 'millennia before Edison.'" Wolfgang Siebenhaars and Jörg Dendl covered "Mysterious Maps" and the "Ark of the Covenant," with Walter Jörg Langbein tracing the Ark's path to Zimbabwe. Werner Betz, a newcomer to AAS, investigated parallel skid marks on Malta. Rudolf Jellen's presentation on "Tap O' Noth" could not be given.

Willi Grömling suggested a divine ancestry for the Merovingian dynasty, though his talk was found to be tiring. Hans-Werner Sachmann presented an interesting, lesser-known topic on the reality of fairy tales, citing the Grimms' "Hansel and Gretel" as potentially based on historical events.

A particularly anticipated presentation by Luc Bürgin, editor of the Swiss "SIGN" magazine, aimed to connect EvD's "god-astronauts" with modern UFO sightings. However, the review describes it as a disappointing, unfocused, and polemical attack against "the two men from Mannheim," rather than addressing the announced topic. Bürgin is criticized for acting as a new "vassal" of Erich von Däniken and for his narrow-mindedness.

The highlight of the day was Dr. Johannes Fiebag's presentation on the "abduction syndrome," a topic recently discussed by Ulrich Magin in Germany. Fiebag explained the connection between tales of fairies, elves, and incubi, and modern abduction folklore, based on his "mimicry theory." The reviewer finds this theory too complex and not sufficiently grounded.

Overall, the AAS day is described as typical, with crowded conditions and familiar lectures, but still recommended for the experience and the "quirky characters."

GSFM Magazine and "Äon-Team"

The latest issue of "Gerry's Science Fantasy Magazin" (GSFM) is noted, featuring a report on GEP e.V., the AAS World Congress in Berlin, interviews, and film reviews. The magazine, produced by Gerhard Börnsen and Rudolf Jellen, is praised for its improvement. The "Äon-Team" is also producing a TV show called "Das fantastische Forum," to be broadcast via local cable in Dortmund, Duisburg, and Saarbrücken starting in October.

P.M. and Crop Circles

"Peter Moosleitner's interesting magazine" (PM) reported on crop circles in Southern England. PM conducted a competition for the most beautiful fake crop circles, which, according to the article, proved that creating convincing circles is easier than thought, thus supporting the view that they are not necessarily anomalous phenomena. The article addresses common questions about crop circles:

1. Bent stems in nodes: This is explained as a natural plant mechanism, not requiring human intervention.
2. Fluctuating radioactivity: The existence of such fluctuations is not confirmed, as no baseline measurements were taken before the circles appeared.
3. Strange trilling sounds: These are attributed to the "Feldschwirl" (a type of grasshopper).
4. Motivation for creating crop circles: The exact reason is unknown, but it is suggested that it may be a form of compulsion for self-expression, known among many artists.

The PM initiative, in collaboration with Rupert Sheldrake and "Cereologist," is commended for its scientific approach to investigating anomalous phenomena, contrasting it with "ad-hoc explanations" from some scientists.

Book Reviews and Publications

"Licht der Pharaonen: Hochtechnologie und elektrischer Strom im alten Ägypten"

This book by Peter Krassa and Reinhard Habeck explores the theory that ancient Egyptians possessed advanced technology, including electricity. The authors cite evidence from hieroglyphs and on-site investigations, suggesting the existence of "sun-barges," "ray emitters," and "TV sets" in ancient Egypt, attributing this knowledge to "visitors from the cosmos."

"Himmelszeichen: Eingriffe Gottes oder Manifestationen einer fremden Intelligenz?"

By Johannes and Peter Fiebag, this book examines parallels between Marian apparitions and the UFO phenomenon. It argues that these apparitions are not divine but manifestations of a "superior non-terrestrial intelligence" that also appears as UFOs.

"The Great Texas Airship Mystery"

Wallace O. Chariton's book investigates "airship" sightings in Texas during the late 19th century. It argues that these phenomena were not unique to the post-WWII era and that similar social and cultural factors influenced witness accounts and skepticism then as they do today. The book is recommended for those interested in historical UFO research.

"JOURNAL OF UFO STUDIES, Vol. 3, 1991"

This issue of the scientific journal includes research on abduction problems and the "DELPHOS" case, featuring articles on the psychosocial characteristics of abductees and soil analysis. It is recommended for those engaged in scientific UFO discussions.

"Healing Shattered Reality: Understanding Contactee Trauma"

Alice Bryant and Linda Seebach's book aims to help abduction experiencers cope with their trauma. However, the reviewer criticizes it for promoting New Age clichés and for its uncritical acceptance of UFO speculation, suggesting it may be aimed at recruiting members for UFO cults.

"UFO's, Aliens, and 'Ex'-Intelligence Agents: Who's Fooling Whom?"

Lars C. Hansson reviews a book by John Lear, Bill Cooper, and others, which he describes as a "thick tome" filled with "wacky personal legends" and conspiracy theories about Zeta Reticuli aliens and a global cover-up. Hansson dismisses the book's claims as unsubstantiated and suggests that much of the alleged "disinformation" is the product of bored US citizens engaging in "sick games" rather than a government conspiracy.

"The Incredible UFO Cover-Up at Bentwaters NATO Air Base"

Jenny Randles' book investigates a reported UFO landing at Bentwaters NATO Air Base in 1980. It details witness accounts and official reports, suggesting a possible contact between aliens and soldiers. The book is considered a valuable contribution to the discussion of the case.

"Crop Circles: Hoax or Happening?"

Carolyn North's booklet provides a brief, photo-illustrated overview of the crop circle phenomenon in Southern England, questioning the hoax theory. The reviewer notes that the author does not apply sufficient critical analysis.

"Sussex Crop Formations 1991"

This publication by Barry Reynolds documents crop formations found in Sussex in 1991, including photos, sketches, and location details. It is presented as a supplement to existing literature on crop circles.

"Crop Circle Classification"

Pat Palgrave-Moore attempts to establish a unified classification system for crop circles and pictograms based on form criteria, aiming for standardized terminology in the field. The booklet includes 21 plates illustrating various patterns.

"Ciphers in the Crops"

Edited by Beth Davis, this compilation features articles on complex crop pictograms, such as the Mandelbrot set and the Barbury Castle pictogram. It includes a report by Gary Hardwick on pulsating lights observed in Wiltshire.

"The Answer: Crop Signs and World Change"

This brochure by Margo Williams and Carolyn Morgan presents "channelled" information from "star people" to explain crop circles as "silent communication attempts." The reviewer finds it lacking in scientific rigor and more suited for "UFO-New Age" enthusiasts.

"Crop Circles: Harbingers of World Change"

Edited by Alick Bartholomew, this book explores various theories about the causes of crop circles, featuring contributions from different authors discussing ecological crises, holistic worldviews, and energy systems. The reviewer notes the speculative nature of some ideas but praises the book's excellent photographs.

Other Sections

Advertisements

The issue includes advertisements for UFO-related books, publications, and research groups, such as the GEP e.V. catalog of "Aktuelle Angebote" (Current Offers) and "Sonderhefte" (Special Issues), and a rare book listing for "Karl L. Veit: Planetenmenschen besuchen unsere Erde."

"How to Catch a Flying Saucer"

This children's book by James M. Deem is recommended as a comprehensive introduction to the UFO phenomenon for young readers, offering advice on how to document a sighting.

"Almanac of UFO Organizations & Publications"

David Blevins' brochure lists over 300 addresses of UFO research groups and journals worldwide, providing details on their goals, viewpoints, and contact information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena, the analysis of crop circles (including skepticism about their origin), the exploration of ancient technologies and astronaut theories, and the critical review of books and research within the UFO community. The editorial stance appears to favor a scientific approach to UFO research, as evidenced by the positive reviews of publications like the "JOURNAL OF UFO STUDIES" and the critical assessments of more speculative or sensationalist material. There is a clear distinction made between rigorous research and what is perceived as "disinformation" or "New Age" speculation. The magazine also highlights the importance of historical research in understanding the UFO phenomenon.