LDLN - No 001

Magazine Overview

This is the first issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit" (Lights in the Night), published in February 1958, with R. Veillith as the founder and publisher. The magazine is dedicated to individuals worldwide who passionately seek truth, aiming to provide guidance and new horizons for humanity. It pledges to help humans on various planes of existence, highlight valuable and often unrecognized truths, and advance the search for specific verities.

The editorial, "A CEUX QUI AIMENT LA VERITE" (To Those Who Love Truth), explains the magazine's mission. It addresses the widespread confusion among humanity regarding vital questions such as nutrition, unidentified flying objects (UFOs), and prophecies. The founders believe that many issues can be clarified by highlighting decisive elements. The magazine intends to alleviate this confusion by publishing studies that reveal important, often unknown, truths and other documents that contribute to the search for these truths. The core problem, according to the editorial, is that many truths, especially spiritual, moral, and physical ones concerning human well-being, are either unknown or not applied. The editorial emphasizes that human reform is essential for global change, as individual actions shape humanity's destiny. It posits that humans are governed by laws, and deviating from them leads to suffering. Institutional reform without human reform is deemed nonsensical.

Key Articles and Themes

Vegetarianism = Rational Nutrition

This extensive article by J. Dalemont, an engineer and author of "Enquêtes sur le Végétarisme," argues for the scientific and health benefits of a vegetarian diet. Dalemont counters the common perception of vegetarianism as a diet for the sick or ascetics. He references the work of Jules Lefevre, a biology professor, who scientifically examined vegetarianism. Lefevre's research highlighted that plants, via photosynthesis, utilize solar energy to produce oxygen and derive nutrients from waste, suggesting that humans can similarly thrive on plant-based energy. The article discusses how plants maintain a breathable atmosphere by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, and how they use waste to create new plant matter. It questions why humans would seek nutrients from animals when plants are directly available. Lefevre dedicated his life to studying the bio-energetic effects of vegetarianism, conducting family experiments and scientific controls. The article also mentions the work of Bergson, who stated that life is communicated to organisms through solar energy. It cites a declaration from a member of the Academy of Medicine around 1903, warning that if the French did not abandon their excessive meat consumption, they would see an increase in arteriosclerosis and cardiac issues. The article provides anecdotal evidence of vegetarians living long, healthy lives, including Jules Lefevre, who died at 83 after a long life without illness, and a professor who remained healthy and active into her fifties without meat.

Dalemont also addresses the argument that manual labor requires meat, stating that this is debatable and that a balanced vegetarian diet can provide sufficient calories and nutrients. He notes the difficulty in finding opponents for debates on vegetarianism, despite organizing conferences.

Agriculture and Health

André Chatillon, a biologist from the Centre d'Etude de Biologie Naturelle, discusses the importance of how soil is cultivated for both agriculture and health. He argues that chemical fertilizers, while promoting plant growth, deplete the soil and lead to a quantitative yield of hypertrophied food rather than qualitative, vitalized products. Chatillon advocates for natural methods, emphasizing the need to restore the soil with well-decomposed farm manure or compost, supplemented with natural mineral fertilizers like eruptive rock powder, sea salt, and limestone. He stresses that all organic waste (plant debris, etc.) should be returned to the soil. The principle of "nothing is created, nothing is lost" is central, meaning mineral elements removed by harvesting must be replenished. Erosion and wind can also displace soil nutrients. Chatillon highlights the crucial role of earthworms and microorganisms in a healthy soil ecosystem, facilitated by well-decomposed humus. He advises against deep plowing or using sharp tools that harm earthworms, recommending a plowing depth of 15-20 cm for larger areas and using a fork-hoe for smaller plots. He also suggests covering bare soil with light mulch to retain moisture and protect it from sun and wind.

Chatillon strongly advocates for eliminating chemical treatments in agriculture, including insecticides, fungicides, and preparations containing arsenic, cyanide, or parathion. He believes that well-manured, humus-rich soil provides plants with sufficient sustenance to combat diseases naturally. He also notes the role of birds and small animals in pest control. The core idea is to collaborate with nature, respecting all life forms, and aiming for a balanced, healthy production of food influenced by the farmer's psychic attitude and idealism.

"Soucoupes Volantes" (Flying Saucers) are Astronauts: Their Origin is Extraterrestrial

This section, by Raymond Veillith, a member of the Société Astronomique de France, presents a detailed analysis of UFO phenomena. Veillith asserts that UFOs are advanced craft of extraterrestrial origin and discusses findings from studies conducted in 1955 and 1957. He notes that strong waves of UFO sightings often coincide with the perigees of Mars, suggesting a connection to the planet Mars. He also points out that observations of Earth by these craft have been systematic, moving from West to East, with significant increases in sightings reported in the US, Europe, and Asia during specific periods (e.g., 1954, 1956).

Key observations include:

• Correlation with Mars: UFO sightings increase around Mars's perigees.
• Systematic Observation: UFO activity appears to be systematically observing Earth.
• Simultaneous Sightings: Sightings occur globally, with higher density in certain regions.
• Landings: Numerous landings have been reported worldwide.
• Movement: Witnesses uniformly describe a characteristic rocking motion when UFOs transition from immobility to movement, shifting from a horizontal to a near-vertical plane.
• Color Change: During acceleration, the objects' light becomes intensely bright.
• Magnetic Remanence: Two cases of significant magnetic deviation have been recorded after reported UFO landings, suggesting the craft utilize magnetic force for propulsion.
• Radar Confirmation: Multiple radar observations confirm the presence of craft moving at extremely high speeds, indicating intelligent direction.
• Historical Sightings: Testimonies exist from periods predating aviation and balloons, dating back centuries.
• Advanced Technology: The flight patterns and behavior of these craft are considered far beyond current terrestrial technological capabilities.

Veillith questions why the US government would pursue such craft if they were their own, citing the death of Captain Mantell and the secrecy surrounding his case and the investigation. He also questions why the US Air Force would order pilots not to fire on UFOs if they were of Russian origin. He presents the Ouallen case from 1942, where an object was observed for nearly 48 hours, defying astronomical explanations.

Two significant cases from Oloron (October 17, 1952) and Gaillac (October 27, 1952) are highlighted, where hundreds of witnesses saw numerous objects dropping filaments that appeared gelatinous and sublimated, leaving no trace. These cases are considered important due to the traces left behind.

The article concludes by noting the secrecy surrounding the Mantell case, with photographs of debris and medical reports being classified. It also mentions reports of Canadian factories building a "flying saucer" for the US.

Book Recommendations

The magazine lists several recommended books related to UFOs, vegetarianism, health, and astronomy, with their prices in French Francs.

Ou Allons-Nous? (Where Are We Going?)

This section features an excerpt from a 1949 article by Adrien Zurcher, reflecting on the state of the world. Zurcher quotes Georges Duhamel, stating that the world is rolling down a slope from which it cannot ascend. He expresses anxiety about the current global situation, citing international tensions and the perceived failure of the United Nations to foster understanding. He quotes M. Churchill's observation that the UN has become an arena for reproaches and insults, potentially leading to a third world war. Zurcher concludes that the UN, like the League of Nations before it, appears powerless to curb the arms race.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the pursuit of truth, the importance of natural living (vegetarianism and organic agriculture), and the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. The editorial stance is one of seeking and disseminating knowledge that can enlighten humanity and alleviate confusion. There is a strong emphasis on scientific inquiry, but also an openness to phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The magazine appears to advocate for a holistic approach to life, integrating physical health, environmental consciousness, and spiritual or existential awareness. The underlying message is one of hope through knowledge and a call for a more conscious and truthful way of living.

This is the first issue of the magazine "Revue de la Grande Harmonie," dated February 1958. It is published by the magazine itself and is in French. The issue focuses on the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War era, particularly the arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union, and the broader implications of technological advancement.

The Escalating Arms Race

The lead article on page 11 discusses the current state of global affairs, noting the daily construction of more powerful weapons, faster aircraft, and larger ships. It highlights the increased tension between the two victorious powers of World War II: the United States and Russia. A quote from "The Atlantic Monthly" suggests that for the US to intimidate other countries, it must possess the "greatest arsenal of atomic bombs, radioactive poisons, pathogenic bacteria, and long-range bombers." Conversely, a commentator in the Soviet newspaper "Pravda" is quoted as stating that the "Soviet Union is taking into account the international situation and, for this reason, is strengthening its armies, including the navy, and keeping them ready for any eventuality."

The article posits that this pursuit of security through armaments by both the US and Russia is creating a tense situation where war, sooner or later, seems the most probable outcome.

Fear and the Future

Facing the prospect of a new cataclysm, the magazine references M. P. H. SPAAK, who is quoted as saying, "Our policy is founded on fear, not cowardly fear, but the fear of someone who looks to the future and contemplates the horror and tragedy that threaten us and may threaten us in the future." This fear is attributed to both humanity's intellectual capabilities and its moral weaknesses.

The issue questions the extent to which intellectual development has contributed to human happiness, pondering if living in a century that creates wonders only to fall victim to them is truly advantageous.

The Robot Incident

An illustrative anecdote from a few years prior, at a radio equipment exhibition, is presented. A young inventor showcased a steel mannequin controlled by miniature receivers acting as brains, enabling various movements. During a public demonstration, a mechanism malfunctioned. When the inventor approached the apparatus, a spark flew from the robot, and its rigid arm struck the inventor on the head, causing him to faint. This incident is framed as a philosophical lesson for the "wise epoch," questioning whether artificial creations will turn against their human masters and if humanity's intellectual progress will ultimately lead to atomic war.

Subscription and Advertising Information

Pages 12 and 2 of the scanned document detail the subscription conditions and advertising rates for the magazine. Under the heading "ABONNEMENTS (EXCEPTIONAL CONDITIONS DURING OUR PROPAGANDA CAMPAIGN)," various subscription tiers are offered, ranging from 150 francs for an ordinary 6-issue subscription to 650 francs for a premium package that includes free ad lines and free copies sent to multiple individuals. Important notes clarify that a line of text contains 65 characters, and subscribers must use their advertising credit within the subscription period. The magazine reserves the right to refuse advertisements that do not conform to its spirit.

"SPECIMEN ON REQUEST" is available, and correspondence should be addressed to M. R. VEILLITH at "Les Pins," Le Chambon-sur-Lignon (Haute-Loire), with a postal account number (C. C. P. 27-24-26 LYON).

Permanent Contests and Small Ads

Page 2 also outlines "PERMANENT CONTESTS" where subscribers can earn free ad lines by recruiting new subscribers. For every new subscriber, the recruiter gets 2 free lines. Recruiting 5 new subscribers within three months earns an additional 5 lines. Upon reaching a total of 300 subscribers, rewards will be distributed to the best promoters.

"PETITES ANNONCES" (Small Ads) will begin in the next issue. The rate is 40 francs per line, with each line accommodating 65 characters. The magazine again reserves the right to refuse ads that are not in line with its spirit.

Publication Details

The Director of Publication is R. VEILLITH. The legal deposit date is February 1958.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the dangers of the nuclear arms race, the pervasive atmosphere of fear in the Cold War era, and a critical examination of technological progress. The editorial stance appears to be one of concern and caution regarding humanity's trajectory, questioning whether scientific and intellectual advancements are truly serving human well-being or leading towards self-destruction. The magazine seems to advocate for a more philosophical and perhaps moral reflection on the consequences of unchecked technological development and military buildup.