La Nave de los Locos - No 23

Magazine Overview

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: N° 23
Volume: Año 4
Date: Mayo 2003
Publisher: FUNDACIÓN ANOMALÍA
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" (The Ship of the Mad) delves into the fascinating intersection of UFO phenomena and folklore, presenting a critical and rational debate on ufology, parapsychology, and related subjects. The cover prominently features the headline "OVNIS Y FOLKLORE" (UFOs and Folklore), suggesting a deep exploration of how myths, legends, and archetypes intertwine with modern sightings.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the magazine's three-year project, acknowledging that their divergent perspective, which challenges the simplistic "They are here to save us" narrative, might provoke strong reactions. They note that some individuals from across the Andes have reacted negatively to their approach, perceiving it as an offense. The editorial highlights that this issue includes the second part of a dossier on UFOs and folklore, featuring an article on "El Burlador" (The Trickster) and its connection to ufology. It also mentions contributions from Roberto Banchs and Frédéric Dumerchat on "UFOlore," Luis Ruiz Noguez's dissection of the "Regimiento Norfolk" legend, and Ricardo Burgos's critical analysis of Juan José Benítez's book "Ricky B.". The editors emphasize the importance of critically analyzing events in times of "lightning wars" to avoid being deceived and to become freer citizens with a better capacity to counter official "stupidity," urging for more responsible media coverage.

Articles and Content

"Enredados con el Burlador: Mitos mágicos y OVNIS" by David Perkins

This extensive article examines George P. Hansen's book "The Trickster and the Paranormal." Perkins explains Hansen's thesis that science and reason can only advance by understanding UFOs and the paranormal. Hansen argues that phenomena like ghosts, Bigfoot, UFOs, animal mutilations, and crop circles are all related to "disarticulation" – a concept contrasting with the "rationalization" of modernity, as described by sociologist Max Weber. The "Trickster" is presented as the ultimate disarticulating agent, a symbol found in global mythology, embodying paradox, irrationality, and deception. The article draws parallels between the Trickster's characteristics and those attributed to UFOs and their occupants, such as teleportation, time alteration, and abduction. Hansen cautions that the suppression of the supernatural and irrational can make them more dangerous and warns investigators against being consumed by the Trickster's influence, which can lead to personal destabilization.

The article also touches upon the extraterrestrial hypothesis, with David Jacobs refuting the idea that abductions are paranormal. Hansen suggests that the extraterrestrial hypothesis is a misnomer and a "foundational premise," arguing that ufologists have conceptualized UFOs within a rational framework, thus distancing them from the supernatural. He criticizes researchers who avoid "high strangeness" cases, thereby losing vital clues. The piece notes the minimal funding for serious UFO research, despite popular media like "The X-Files" fueling interest. It also discusses how the Christian tradition has transferred Trickster attributes to the Devil.

"El Burlador" and its connection to UFOs

The article explores the Trickster archetype across various cultures, linking it to figures like Hermes in Greek mythology and coyotes and crows in Native American folklore. The Trickster's disruptive nature is seen as a force that subverts established hierarchies, leading to innovation and social renewal. Hansen suggests that the Trickster's actions, though seemingly chaotic, ultimately benefit humanity by introducing new ideas and technologies. The article also discusses the concept of "ideoplastias" – phenomena formed by the ideas, beliefs, and anxieties of observers – and the possibility of independent intelligence within UFO phenomena.

"El universo microcósmico de los objetos celestes" by Roberto Banchs

This article examines UFOs through the lens of Swiss psychologist Carl Gustav Jung, particularly in the context of the New Age movement. Banchs notes that Jung's early work on UFOs, "Ein moderner mythus" (A Modern Myth), was ahead of its time and not well-received due to the prevailing materialism. The article suggests that after humanity's journey to the Moon, there was a shift towards introspection, leading to a re-examination of the human condition and the rise of new cults. The piece contrasts the earlier belief in "spaceship Earth" with the current focus on a singular, absolute encounter, often equated with God.

"La vuelta a lo mágico y lo irracional" by null

This section discusses the resurgence of interest in the paranormal and mystical aspects of UFO phenomena starting in the 1970s. It highlights the influence of Jacques Vallée's "Passport to Magonia" and John Keel's "UFOs: Operation Trojan Horse," which bridged folklore with recent UFO testimonies. The article suggests that the film "The Exorcist" and the rise of sect-like groups contributed to a societal shift towards the irrational, driven by a disillusionment with science's inability to solve fundamental human problems. This led to a spiritual void and a return to magic and the irrational.

"El resplandor de la contracultura y los nuevos cultos" by null

This piece connects the interest in UFOs and the paranormal to the counterculture movement of the 1960s, driven by a search for freedom and truth. It mentions theories about a new race of mutated Homo sapiens and the role of ufologists like Budd Hopkins and Whitley Strieber in promoting the idea of genetic crosses with extraterrestrials, suggesting the formation of a new religious cult. The article also explores the psychological similarities between alien abductions and other extraordinary experiences like near-death experiences, suggesting a regressive return to an intra-uterine state.

"Las abducciones alienígenas" by null

This section delves into the psychological aspects of alien abductions, proposing that they might be imaginary recreations or proto-fantasies reflecting a desire for an original state of bliss or an "oceanic experience." It links the experience of birth and separation from the mother to the castration complex and rupture, framing abductions as a form of initiation rite. The article suggests that a core problem lies in the subject's deeply regressive states.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and rational approach to ufology, challenging simplistic explanations and emphasizing the importance of examining phenomena from multiple perspectives, including psychological, mythological, and folkloric. There is a clear skepticism towards organizations that rigidly adhere to a purely materialistic or rationalistic viewpoint, such as CSICOP. The publication seems to advocate for an open-minded yet discerning investigation, acknowledging the complexity and often paradoxical nature of UFO phenomena and related experiences. The "Trickster" archetype serves as a central metaphor for understanding the disruptive, transformative, and often elusive nature of these phenomena. The magazine also highlights the societal shift towards the irrational and mystical, suggesting that these elements are not entirely separate from the scientific and rational.

'La Nave de los Locos' Nº 23, published in May 2003, is a bilingual (Spanish/French) issue focusing on the historical and psychological dimensions of aerial abductions, exploring the thematic links between folklore, demonology, and modern UFO encounters. The magazine presents a rich tapestry of historical accounts, academic analysis, and speculative theories.

The 'Devil's Ship' and the UFOs: An Ethno-Historical Survey

The main article, "LOS RAPTOS AÉREOS FANTÁSTICOS: DEL DIABLO A LOS OVNIS UNA ENCUESTA ETNO-HISTÓRICA" by Frédéric Dumerchat (France), delves into the long history of aerial abduction narratives. It traces the theme from ancient religious and mythical accounts to medieval legends and modern science fiction. The article highlights how figures like angels, saints, the devil, demons, fairies, and lutins were historically identified as abductors, with extraterrestrials emerging as the primary figures in contemporary narratives.

The author examines specific historical cases, including the 1611 account of Poupert, who claimed to be abducted by the devil. This case, documented by Pierre Robert and later compiled by Dom Fonteneau, is analyzed within the context of 17th-century beliefs about witchcraft and demonology. The article notes the parallels between these historical accounts and the structure of modern UFO abduction narratives, suggesting a continuity in the human experience of the unknown and the uncanny.

The Context of Witchcraft and Demonology

The issue provides a detailed historical context for the Poupert case, situating it within the intense period of witchcraft persecutions in Europe between 1560 and 1680. It discusses the prevalent belief in the devil's power and influence, as documented by demonologists like Jean Bodin. The article points out that the 'scientific' Robert, like many of his contemporaries, accepted these supernatural narratives without reservation, influenced by the prevailing cultural milieu.

The Theme of Satanic or Divine Aerial Abduction from the 16th to the 20th Century

This section further explores the theme of aerial abduction, noting its presence in the 16th and 17th centuries, often linked to witchcraft and the devil. It cites examples from demonological treatises, such as 'Malleus Maleficarum' and Jean Bodin's 'Démonomanie des sorciers,' which describe flights and transports by demonic forces. The article also touches upon similar themes in other cultures and historical periods, including the concept of divine intervention where angels or saints might rescue individuals.

Other Abductions: Horses, Carriages, and Fairies

The magazine broadens the scope to include other folkloric accounts of aerial abductions, such as those involving malevolent horses, enchanted carriages, and supernatural beings like fairies and lutins. It notes that these beliefs, though sometimes marginalized, persisted in various forms across different regions and cultures.

From Science Fiction to UFOs

The article traces the evolution of the aerial abduction theme into science fiction from the late 19th century onwards. It highlights how science fiction authors began to explore themes of abduction by 'mad scientists' or extraterrestrials, creating a narrative bridge to modern UFO lore. The issue emphasizes that while there are thematic similarities, the scientific and extraterrestrial framing represents a distinct departure from earlier religious and supernatural explanations.

Since 1947, flying saucers and extraterrestrials have become prominent in literature. The 1960s saw individuals claiming personal experiences of abduction by UFOs. The case of Filiberto Cárdenas in Miami in 1979 is presented as a significant example of a modern UFO abduction, involving witnesses, police reports, and subsequent recovery of the abductee in an 'extraterrestrial craft.' The work of John G. Fuller, 'The Interrupted Journey,' is cited as a seminal influence on these narratives, particularly the Betty and Barney Hill case, which established key elements like initial strange sightings, memory gaps, and physical/mental examinations by small, non-human beings within a UFO.

Satan and the Flying Saucer: A Conclusion Less Paradoxical Than It Appears

The concluding section reflects on the relationship between demonology and ufology. It argues that while demonology provided a framework for accepting accounts involving the devil in the 16th and 17th centuries, ufology, particularly since the 19th century and amplified by media, has provided a similar framework for UFO abduction narratives. The magazine suggests that both phenomena, despite their different historical and cultural contexts, share underlying psychological functions and archetypal patterns. The authors propose that UFO abductions are, in large part, a construction of ufologists, building upon existing folkloric motifs and psychological needs for meaning.

Notes and Contributors

The issue includes several footnotes providing references and elaborations on the topics discussed. It also lists the editorial team, directors, designers, illustrators, and a wide array of collaborators from various countries, including Chile, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Spain, the United States, France, England, Italy, Mexico, Paraguay, and Sweden. The editors state that they do not necessarily agree with the opinions expressed by their collaborators and are not responsible for them, except where explicitly stated. The publication is described as a bi-monthly bulletin, independently edited and non-profit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistence of aerial abduction narratives across different historical periods and cultural contexts. The magazine explores how these stories, whether attributed to supernatural entities like demons or to extraterrestrials, reflect deep-seated human anxieties, psychological needs, and the search for meaning in the face of the unknown. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting historical and theoretical perspectives without necessarily endorsing any single explanation, but rather highlighting the continuities and transformations in these enduring human narratives.

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" (The Ship of Fools), number 23, dated May 2003, explores two primary themes: the historical mystery surrounding the disappearance of the 5th Norfolk Regiment during the Dardanelles Campaign and a comprehensive analysis of the definition and semantics of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

The Norfolk Regiment Mystery

The article "EL REGIMIENTO DE NORFOLK" by Luis Ruiz Noguez (Mexico) delves into the alleged disappearance of the 5th Norfolk Regiment during the Battle of the Dardanelles in World War I. The narrative recounts Winston Churchill's plan for an naval expedition to bombard Gallipoli and Constantinople in 1915. The author details the preparations, the command structure, and the disastrous amphibious landings, particularly the events of March 18th and the subsequent battles.

A central focus is the purported incident on August 28, 1915, near Hill 60 in Suvla Bay, where hundreds of men from the 5th Norfolk Regiment allegedly entered a peculiar, stationary, cloud-like formation and vanished. The account is supported by testimonies from 22 soldiers of the New Zealand 1st Company. The article notes that the regiment was considered "disappeared" or "exterminated," and Turkey, upon its surrender in 1918, denied any knowledge of capturing or even encountering such a regiment.

Several ufologists and authors, including Brad Steiger, John A. Keel, and Jacques Vallée, are cited as having discussed this event as a possible extraterrestrial abduction. Keel describes the regiment marching into a "peculiar coffee cloud" that moved against the wind, resulting in the loss of 800 men. Other accounts suggest fewer men were involved, around 250.

However, the article also presents a counter-argument from Melvin Harris, who suggests the 5th Norfolk Regiment was not a separate unit but a battalion within the Norfolk Regiment. Harris asserts that the battalion remained in combat until the end of the war and that a section of the 5th Battalion did get lost during the Suvla Bay landing, but this was a conventional military event, not an alien encounter. Harris attributes the UFO narrative to misinterpretations and sensationalism by writers.

The article further explores the confusion between the disappearance of the 5th Battalion on August 12th and the annihilation of the 86th Brigade of the 29th Division on August 21st during a fog. The author, referencing researcher William K. Hartmann, criticizes writers who have profited from the story without thorough investigation and notes the difficulty in verifying the accounts of the alleged witnesses (sappers F. Reichart, R. Newnes, and J. L. Newman).

Elements of Ufology: Defining the UFO

The second major section, "ELEMENTOS DE OVNILOGÍA" by Lic. Milton Hourcade, is a multi-part exploration into the definition of UFOs. This installment, Chapter III, focuses on the semantic challenges and differing interpretations of the term "OVNI" (Objeto Volador No Identificado).

The author begins by questioning whether the designation "OVNI" accurately reflects the phenomenon or if it is insufficient. He notes that the term, coined by Captain Edward J. Ruppelt of the USAF for the "Blue Book" project, has become universal but carries emotional connotations rather than a precise scientific definition.

The article compiles and analyzes definitions of UFOs provided by various official bodies, private organizations, and researchers from different eras:

• USAF (1960): "Any object that the observer is unable to identify."
• Dr. Jacques Vallée (1965): "Manifestations of the UFO Phenomenon will be found in reports of the perception of a visual image, commonly interpreted by witnesses as that of a material flying object, which possesses one or both of the following properties: a) an appearance that, to the witness, is unusual; b) a behavior that, to the witness, is unusual."
• University of Colorado Group (1969): "The stimulus for a report made by one or more individuals, of something seen in the sky (or an object thought to be capable of flight, but seen when landed) that the observer cannot identify as being of natural origin, and which seems sufficiently puzzling to decide to report it to the police, government officials, the press, or perhaps a representative of a private organization dedicated to the study of such objects."
• Dr. Carl Sagan (1972): "A moving aerial or celestial phenomenon, detected visually or by radar, whose nature is not immediately understood."
• Aerial Phenomena Research Organization - APRO (1972): "Any aerial object that cannot be identified by the witness."
• Dr. William K. Hartmann (1972): "An object or apparition considered strange by the observer. If the phenomenon is not identified by research, it can be considered an extraordinary flying object, that is, something beyond the limits of known natural phenomena. Even more surprisingly, it can be called a Strange Flying Object ('alien' in the original English) signifying a vehicle constructed by an alien intelligence."
• Dr. Joseph Allen Hynek (1972): "The reported perception of an object or light seen in the sky or over the earth, whose appearance, general dynamic trajectory, and luminous behavior do not suggest a conventional logical explanation, and which not only confuses the original perceivers, but remains unidentified after a thorough scrutiny of all available evidence, by persons who are technically capable of making a common-sense identification, if possible."
• Allan Hendry (1979): "Any anomalous aerial phenomenon whose appearance and/or behavior cannot be attributed to conventional objects or effects by the original witness(es), as well as by technical analysts who possess qualifications that the original observer(s) may lack."
• Ronald Story (1980): "Although a perfect definition is probably impossible (given that, after all, the subjects of our study are 'unidentified'), it may be convenient to limit the field of Ufology to those cases of observations and encounters that do not appear (after appropriate and complete study by qualified persons) to be explainable in terms of any known natural phenomenon, or man-made apparatus."
• Dr. Richard Haines (1987): "Manifestations of the UFO phenomenon are found in all reports of the perception or indirect awareness of an object, light source, or presence in the sky, over the earth, or under the water, whose appearance, trajectory, general dynamics, luminescence, or reflective qualities do not suggest an explanation that satisfies conventional, current, or logical explanations and which remains unidentified after all the evidence surrounding the observation has been studied by technically capable persons, including the field investigator (involved in the case), who have applied both common sense identification and intuition to their analyses."

The article categorizes these definitions into two main groups:

1. Witness-centric: UFOs are what witnesses cannot identify (USAF, Colorado Group, Sagan, APRO, Vallée).
2. Investigator-centric: UFOs are what cannot be identified even after thorough investigation by experts (Hartmann, Hynek, Hendry, Story, Haines).

The author states that the CIOVI (Centro de Investigaciones Ovnilógicas) aligns with the second group, considering it a qualitatively superior criterion.

The text highlights that the USAF's use of "Unknown" for cases it couldn't explain led to a semantic issue, as "OVNI" was defined as what the observer couldn't identify, forcing them to label what even they couldn't identify as "Unknown."

Hourcade emphasizes that investigators do not possess UFOs themselves but rather study reports about them, leading to the idea that ufology might be better termed "informology" (the study of reports).

The article questions whether "OVNI" refers to the perception itself or the phenomenon causing it, concluding it must refer to the latter. It stresses that the investigation starts with witnesses, then gathers data about the witnesses, the environment, and any physical evidence.

Ultimately, the author argues that an OVNI is the unknown phenomenon itself, not the perception, the witness, the medium, or the report. The term "OVNI" is presented as an "anti-definition" or a definition by negation, indicating what is not known or identified.

Critiques of the "OVNI" Designation

The article further discusses criticisms of the term "Objeto Volador No Identificado" itself:

• "Objeto": Some argue that not all UFOs are necessarily physical objects; they could be energetic manifestations or psychic phenomena.
• "Volador" (Flying): This term is considered restrictive, primarily applying to atmospheric movement, and less so to objects in space.
• "No Identificado" (Unidentified): The definition of "identified" is questioned, as knowledge evolves. What was unidentified in 1947 might be understood today, and what is known to the public might be different from what is known to state-level researchers.

Alternative designations are mentioned, such as U.A.O. (Unconventional Aerial Objects) by APRO and E.F.O. (Extraordinary Flying Objects) by Hartmann, and P.A.N. (Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés) by GEPAN.

The author concludes that "OVNI" is a category that cannot be further reduced, but researchers must remain open to revisions. It is considered a final operational classification, adhering to the scientific method.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" adopts a critical and analytical approach to both historical mysteries and ufological concepts. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a skeptical yet open-minded examination of phenomena. The article on the Norfolk Regiment highlights the tendency for sensational stories to emerge from historical events, contrasting alleged UFO encounters with conventional military explanations. The extensive discussion on UFO definitions underscores a commitment to scientific methodology and precise terminology, distinguishing between subjective perception and objective phenomena. The magazine seems to encourage readers to critically evaluate claims and to understand the complexities involved in classifying unexplained events, emphasizing the importance of evidence and thorough research over speculation.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: 23
Volume: 21/22
Date: May 2003
Publisher: OVNIFICCION CHILE
Country: Chile
Language: Spanish

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" delves into several UFO-related topics, with a significant focus on a critical analysis of Juan José Benítez's book "Ricky B.", alongside an examination of the "Texcoco soap bubble" incident and a brief look at the Hessdalen phenomenon.

The Texcoco 'Soap Bubbles' Incident

The article "LOS OVNIS DE JABÓN" (The Soap UFOs) by Luis Ruiz Noguez recounts a curious UFO case from July 1963 in Mexico. Air traffic controllers at Mexico City International Airport reported seeing numerous "mushroom"-shaped objects descending and ascending over the Texcoco lake area. The phenomenon caused significant disruption, leading to the airport's temporary closure and the dispatch of an investigation plane. The pilot described the objects as "cotton balls" or "silkworm cocoons" that emitted vapors, later likening them to "soap bubbles."

Further investigation by journalist Juan de Dios Garza García, prompted by the sensationalist media coverage, led to a more mundane explanation. Interviews with meteorologists and an engineer from Sosa Texcoco revealed that the "UFOs" were likely large masses of foam generated by industrial waste and soap production in the area, which were then lifted and dispersed by strong winds, appearing as "white and gray mushrooms" or "bubbles."

Despite this rational explanation, the case was sensationalized by some ufologists, including Antonio Ribera, who treated it as an extraordinary event. The article criticizes the tendency in ufology to sensationalize events and obscure the truth for commercial or ideological reasons.

A Critical Look at Hessdalen

A brief section discusses the Hessdalen phenomenon, noting that the Italian Committee for the Hessdalen Project (CIPH) announced a new article on their website regarding a mission to Norway. The article, written by physicist and ufologist Matteo Leone, focuses on research into the recurring luminescent phenomenon. Leone's investigation, based on prior photometric and spectroscopic analyses, relates the phenomenon to an unknown atmospheric luminescent energy source capable of producing over 100 kW. However, Leone's article offers a conventional explanation for the observed phenomenon, while acknowledging that other witness testimonies suggest the presence of an unidentified phenomenon.

J. J. Benítez and the Ricky B. Case

This section features a lengthy critique by Ricardo Burgos of Juan José Benítez's book "Ricky B. Una historia 'oficialmente' imposible" (Ricky B. An 'Officially' Impossible Story). The book, published in 1997, is described as a fantastical work of literature that presents a supposed "veridical chronicle" of a norteamericana who, after a car accident in Mexico in the 1970s, dies and is then "possessed" by an extraterrestrial. This alien then explores the world through her body.

Burgos systematically deconstructs Benítez's work, offering several critical annotations:

1. The Opening Lie: Burgos argues that Benítez's epigraph, which positions his work as for a select few "heterodox" readers, is mendacious. He points out that Benítez is a best-selling author, selling millions of copies, and thus caters to a mass audience, not a select group. This epigraph is seen as an attempt to foster a cult-like following.
2. A Telenovela Format: The book is characterized as the first chapter of a "telenovela" or series, designed to be commercially exploited. Benítez is accused of stretching a single idea to its commercial limit, akin to how soap operas are extended based on ratings.
3. Incongruity of Entry: Burgos finds it incongruous that Benítez, who claims to have uncovered a massive US government conspiracy in his previous book "Caballo de Troya" (Trojan Horse), can easily enter the United States without any apparent scrutiny at immigration.
4. Science Fiction Masquerading as Fact: Benítez is accused of presenting science fiction as "truth" to increase sales. He allegedly discovered that science fiction sells better when marketed as non-fiction. Burgos suggests Benítez either genuinely believes his own narratives (indicating delusion) or is an immoral businessman knowingly deceiving his audience.
5. Lack of Original Proof: The book allegedly lacks convincing, original proof of UFO invasions. It relies on anecdotal testimonies that are easily explained by other means (e.g., psychological issues, misinterpretations of natural phenomena). Burgos criticizes the lack of scientific rigor and the reliance on subjective accounts.
6. Self-Aggrandizement: The book is seen as a narcissistic auto-elogium where Benítez, not Ricky B., is the true protagonist. Benítez's personal experiences and beliefs are presented as central, with extraterrestrials allegedly pursuing him and leaving him signs. Burgos suggests Benítez sees himself as a modern-day Moses.
7. Inability to Investigate: Benítez is accused of not knowing how to investigate, particularly by ignoring the principle of parsimony (Occam's Razor), which favors the simplest explanation. Instead, he opts for complex, conspiratorial explanations, such as extraterrestrial possession, without first considering psychological evaluations for Ricky B.
8. Closed Discourse and Anti-Humanism: Benítez's discourse is labeled "closed," similar to Nazism, Marxism, or psychoanalysis, as it claims to explain all phenomena through the lens of extraterrestrial control. This narrative is seen as dehumanizing, stripping individuals of free will and moral responsibility by suggesting all human actions are predetermined by aliens. It promotes a new superstition, replacing God with UFOs.
9. The True Story of Ricky B.: Burgos proposes that Ricky B. is actually the story of a norteamericana suffering from post-traumatic amnesia and mental disorders, who developed a delusion of being possessed by an extraterrestrial. Benítez, according to Burgos, either naively believes this delusion or immorally exploits it for commercial gain.
10. Logical Inconsistencies: Burgos questions why, if extraterrestrials can make their UFOs invisible, they would need to possess human bodies to spy on Earth, calling it an unnecessarily complicated espionage method.
11. Effective Suspense, Poor Science: While acknowledging Benítez's skill in creating suspense, Burgos laments that he is a "sick" science fiction writer rather than a healthy one. He suggests Benítez could have been a notable writer if he hadn't prioritized commercial appeal over integrity.

Three Conclusions on Ricky B.

1. Dehumanization and Immorality: The book's premise that humans are controlled by extraterrestrials and are not free leads to a loss of human condition and moral responsibility, contributing to a progressive dehumanization.
2. Spreading Delusion: By presenting his fiction as reality, Benítez spreads delusion, potentially leading more people to embrace irrational beliefs.
3. Conspiracy Theory Reinforcement: Benítez's insistence on extraterrestrial conspiracies, particularly in "Ricky B.", could be interpreted as a tactic to obscure the truth by constantly denouncing it, making him appear as part of the very conspiracy he claims to expose.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical and critical stance towards sensationalist claims in ufology. It emphasizes rational explanations, scientific inquiry, and the dangers of misinformation and commercial exploitation within the field. The editorial stance is to debunk unfounded claims and encourage critical thinking, particularly regarding works like J.J. Benítez's that blur the lines between fiction and alleged fact. The recurring theme is the need for rigorous investigation and the exposure of pseudoscientific narratives that lack credible evidence.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: Nº 23
Date: Mayo de 2003
Location: Santiago de Chile

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" presents a highly critical and skeptical perspective on the geopolitical events following the September 11th attacks, particularly focusing on the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq. It also features a detailed review of a book on ufology.

The Other Frauds of 9/11: A Call to Skepticism

The main article, "LOS OTROS FRAUDES DEL 11/09 (NUEVA INCITACIÓN AL ESCEPTICISMO)" by Sergio Sánchez, argues that the official narratives surrounding the 9/11 attacks and their aftermath are riddled with "frauds" and deliberate deceptions. The author begins by referencing the initial skepticism towards the irrationality surrounding the events, including claims of 'God' and 'Devil' faces in smoke and apocryphal Nostradamus prophecies.

Sánchez criticizes the swift identification of Osama Bin Laden as the sole culprit by the US, questioning the lack of public evidence and the subsequent "massive attack" on Afghanistan. He describes Afghanistan being reduced to the "neolithic" and the abandonment of promises for its reconstruction. The article asserts that Afghanistan was merely a scapegoat for the US to vent its anger.

The piece then turns to the invasion of Iraq, asserting that Saddam Hussein had no connection to Osama Bin Laden or the 9/11 attacks, a fact acknowledged even by the CIA and FBI. The author contends that the "hawks" were determined to act, and that UN inspectors knew there were no weapons of mass destruction. He describes Iraq as a "depauperated, hungry" nation, a "propitiatory victim" of Western civilization. The article criticizes the US and its allies for disregarding the majority world opinion and the UN, declaring themselves "imperialists."

Applying Occam's Razor, Sánchez suggests that any "evidence" presented by the victors should be treated with suspicion. He draws a parallel to the sinking of the USS Maine, which was used to justify a war with Spain, suggesting a historical pattern of fabricating pretexts for conflict. The article highlights Hans Blix, the chief UN inspector, accusing the US and UK of falsifying evidence. Despite this, figures like Rumsfeld, Cheney, and Condoleezza continue their agendas.

The author also points to CIA reports suggesting Syria possesses sarin gas and weapons of mass destruction, questioning if they too will become targets. He quotes Madeleine Albright's sentiment before the Kosovo intervention: "What good is it to have the most powerful army in the world if we can't use it?" This leads to the conclusion that skepticism is warranted when faced with dubious "evidence," especially after witnessing what the article calls the "greatest geopolitical sleight of hand operation of recent decades" in Iraq.

The article concludes by stating that "La Nave" will not believe such claims, emphasizing the need for absolute skepticism in such circumstances.

Book Review: OVNIS Y CIENCIAS HUMANAS

Pages 41-43 feature a review by Sergio Sánchez R. of the book "OVNIS Y CIENCIAS HUMANAS: Un estudio temático de 50 años de bibliografía" by Ignacio Cabria García, published by Fundación Anomalía in 2003.

The reviewer praises Cabria's work as a significant contribution to ufological literature in Spanish, particularly for its focus on the "psycho-sociological hypothesis" (HPS). The book is described as a meticulous and comprehensive bibliographic study of the history, theoretical developments, successes, and limitations of HPS.

Cabria's work is presented as a refutation of those who view ufology as separate from rational scrutiny and those who claim that Spanish-language publications on the topic are inferior to English ones. The book is divided into four main sections:

1. Introduction to UFOs and Psycho-sociology: This section provides a general overview of UFOs from a psycho-sociological perspective, with a focus on symbolic approaches. The reviewer notes Cabria's critique of certain ideas as "new age ufology" but suggests that some affected authors might feel misrepresented, preferring terms like "Old Age" to describe their focus on "archaic renaissance."

2. Psychology Applied to UFO Observations and Abductions: This part delves into complex topics such as the perception of unidentified stimuli, personality disorders, witness analysis, the propensity for fantasy, Jungian archetypes, and regressive hypnosis in abductions.

3. Sociology of the UFO Phenomenon: This section explores the dissemination of UFO rumors, survey beliefs, the social movement of believers and skeptics, the role of mass media, and the popularization of the "flying saucer" stereotype. Key chapters highlighted are "The construction of ufology as knowledge," which examines the demarcation between science and pseudoscience, and "Historiography of the UFO phenomenon," which analyzes the "social history" of the problem, referencing the work of sociologist Pierre Lagrange.

4. Anthropology of the UFO Phenomenon: This section examines the myth of extraterrestrials, UFO folklore, aliens in culture, contemporary urban legends, and contactees. The reviewer particularly commends the chapter on the folkloric component of UFO accounts and the discussion on contactism, which goes beyond simple anti-cult rhetoric to explore the underlying reasons for the appeal of such movements, especially their proposed worldviews.

The reviewer concludes that Cabria's work is a major contribution to the HPS and positions him as a leading international exponent. He predicts that the book will be reissued and become a "classic" text for academic study.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards official narratives, particularly concerning geopolitical conflicts and alleged threats, and a critical examination of the cultural and psychological dimensions of phenomena like UFO sightings. The magazine's editorial stance is clearly one of promoting critical thinking and questioning established accounts, especially when they appear to be driven by political or military agendas rather than verifiable evidence. The review of Cabria's book indicates an interest in understanding UFO phenomena through rigorous social science methodologies, rather than purely speculative or sensationalist approaches.