LDLN - No 046

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Lumières dans la Nuit," dated April 1962, is the 46th issue of its 5th year. The magazine presents itself as a monthly review dedicated to those seeking truth and guiding humanity toward new horizons. The cover prominently features the headline "L'IMPERATIF DE NOTRE TEMPS" (The Imperative of Our Time), quoting Jean ROSTAND on the problem of avoiding societal destruction due to a lack of foresight.

The Imperative of Our Time

The editorial, "L'IMPERATIF DE NOTRE TEMPS," by Georges GARCIA, a Medical Researcher, addresses the potential for humanity's self-destruction, not just through armed conflict but also through a 'silent and horrible war against Life itself.' It highlights the growing concerns among biologists about the degeneration of the human race. The article questions humanity's passivity in the face of such threats and proposes that a common denominator, respecting the Laws of Life, exists beyond philosophical, religious, or national divisions. This search for a common denominator is deemed an imperative for the survival of humanity in the latter half of the 20th century. The editorial introduces a document titled "QUATRE POINTS" (Four Points) by Georges GARCIA, which synthesizes this philosophy.

Georges GARCIA, in a letter to the editor, expresses his sympathy and interest in "Lumières dans la Nuit," viewing it as an honest effort towards truth and harmony. He presents "The Four Points" as a realization of the grave threats facing our time and a guide towards solutions. He describes it as a philosophy of our time, born from a broad planetary agreement, offering a common perspective for all people of goodwill. These "Four Points" are presented as fundamental truths valid for all lucid and generous individuals, regardless of their particular philosophy, religion, or nationality, serving as the common denominator of our time and the imperative of our era. GARCIA warns that humanity faces either brutal destruction by war or collapse under the weight of its errors, making the realization of "The Four Points" an urgent necessity.

Threats to Humanity and the "Four Points"

The article "Pour la survie de l'humanité" (For the survival of humanity) details the numerous threats facing modern civilization. These include:

• Pollution: Inadmissible pollution of air and water leading to respiratory issues, hematological problems, diverse nervous disorders, pregnancy and growth disturbances, general wear and tear, and even carcinization. Soil and food pollution, damage to trees and construction materials, and a decrease in sunlight are also mentioned. The pollution of seawater is becoming noticeable.
• Chemical Contamination: The abusive introduction of chemical products into food for preservation and presentation causes digestive problems, increased susceptibility to diseases, and general wear and tear, posing a threat to the species.
• Excessive Deforestation: Leading to erosion and the degradation of natural beauty.
• Soil Exhaustion and Fauna Destruction: Natural balances are disrupted, and many species are disappearing.
• Disappearance of Virgin Lands: The encroachment of civilization makes isolation increasingly difficult, threatening human health and nature.
• Dehumanization of Large Cities: Due to hypertrophied surface area and population, urban planning that neglects green spaces and beauty, and a detrimental rhythm of life characterized by tension and overwork, leading to general wear and tear, pregnancy and growth issues, and a diminished capacity for happiness.
• Growing Complication of Daily Life: Individuals are overwhelmed by regulations, controls, excessive knowledge, frequent changes, and the inability to predict the future, leading to compromised physical and moral health and a decline in intelligence.

These threats collectively contribute to an alarming rise in certain diseases, including cardiovascular problems, cancer, nervous disorders, and psychoses, as well as signs of degeneration such as difficult childbirths, an increase in abnormal births, widespread dental cavities, and reduced resistance to fatigue and natural immunity. The proportion of healthy individuals is decreasing, creating an increasingly heavy burden on society.

The article also notes that scientific hopes are being delayed due to these issues, and that normally effective therapies fail because patients lack pure air, healthy food, and peace. The interdependence of nations is highlighted, emphasizing that no country can function independently in the modern world.

"The Four Points" are presented as the solution, requiring:

1. Development of a universal consciousness based on reason.
2. Total support for science.
3. Establishment of a world government.
4. Adoption of a second universal language.

These points are described as the indispensable basis for solving our problems and the only response to the grave threats facing humanity. The author concludes that modern society will either realize "The Four Points" or disappear.

Vegetarianism and Sports Performance

The article "VICTOIRE DU VÉGÉTARISME !" (Victory of Vegetarianism!) by R. VEILLITH, with contributions from J. DE MARQUETTE, discusses the remarkable achievements of vegetarian athletes. It argues that despite vegetarians being a tiny fraction of the athletic population, they disproportionately occupy positions of honor, suggesting their value is significantly higher. The article cites numerous examples from the early 20th century of vegetarian cyclists and runners achieving extraordinary feats, breaking records, and winning major competitions. Karl MANN is frequently mentioned for his exceptional endurance in long-distance running, attributed to a carefully balanced vegetarian diet that prioritizes easily digestible, high-energy foods like fruits, cereals, and green vegetables.

André CHATILLON contributes "JOIE DE VIVRE" (Joy of Living), detailing his personal experiences with extreme mountain climbing and endurance activities, attributing his sustained energy and recovery to a lacto-vegetarian diet. He recounts arduous ascents in the Pyrenees, covering vast distances and significant altitude gains, often with minimal provisions, while his carnivore companion struggled. Chatillon emphasizes the strength and endurance derived from a natural, plant-based diet, contrasting his own robust health and recovery with the physical toll on his companion.

Clay Therapy (L'ARGILE QUI GUÉRIT)

In "L'ARGILE QUI GUÉRIT" (Clay That Heals) by R. DEXTREIT, the author extols the virtues of clay as a versatile natural remedy. Clay is presented as capable of treating a wide range of ailments, from burns and arthritis to infections and fractures, due to its remarkable absorption and adsorption properties. It can neutralize and drain impurities from tissues and liquids. The article notes that while clay is used industrially for purification and deodorizing, its therapeutic potential is not widely recognized. Dextreit explains that clay's effectiveness lies not in directly killing microbes but in strengthening the body's natural defenses and promoting the elimination of toxins. It is also described as revitalizing, though this can sometimes lead to temporary nervousness. The author suggests that clay is a preventative and potentially curative agent against cancer and other diseases related to cellular degeneration. He emphasizes that clay works best in conjunction with other natural treatments and a reformed diet, rather than with chemical medications, due to potential antagonisms.

The Photon Fiction

René PRADEL, in "LES PHOTONS... NOUVELLE FICTION" (Photons... New Fiction), challenges the scientific concept of photons as particles of light. He argues that the idea of photons being 'piloted by waves' is absurd. Pradel calculates the immense mass of photons emitted by the sun, concluding that the sun would be expelling a mass of photons far greater than its own every second. He also calculates that Earth receives its own weight in photons every 22 minutes, leading him to question the stability of our planet. Pradel criticizes scientists for their 'inconsistency,' noting that they attribute mass to photons when explaining certain phenomena but deny it when challenged, calling it 'science fiction.' He advocates for common sense and good science, urging a rejection of such 'heresies.'

Calculation of Pi

René LEBEC responds to Pradel's critique regarding the calculation of Pi. Lebec states he will provide a more detailed explanation in a future article but addresses immediate concerns. He notes that the explanations attributed to Fournier in a previous issue lacked clarity and verification. Lebec also points out inaccuracies in Pradel's interpretation of geometric figures related to Pi calculation, particularly concerning curves versus straight lines in translations and rotations. He mentions developing a personal formula for calculating Pi through successive approximations of inscribed polygons, which he believes is more precise and faster than existing methods.

Meteorological Forecasts

Paul BOUCHET provides a detailed meteorological forecast for France and North Africa from April 20th to May 25th, 1962. The forecast predicts varying weather patterns, including periods of rain, wind, and sunshine, with specific regional variations and potential for storms.

Book Reviews and Announcements

The issue includes announcements for several books:

• "LA DIVINATION PAR LES NOMBRES" (Divination by Numbers) by Paul BOUCHET, a method of logical divination based on numerical values.
• "LES DERNIERS ATLANTES" (The Last Atlanteans) by Paul BOUCHET, exploring the life of Atlantean refugees and their contact with Celtic populations, including theories on Menhir and Dolmen construction.
• "LA GRANDE ÉPREUVE DU MONDE" (The Great Ordeal of the World) by Yves DUPONT-FOURNIEUX, presented as a series of 5 fascicles.
• "LE CULTURO-VITALISME" (Culturo-Vitalism) by André VILLETTE, a brochure on vitalist doctrine and physical culture.
• "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT... DE FERMAT" (Lights in the Night... of Fermat) by F. PRUNIER, a work on advanced arithmetic and the Fermat problem.
• "L'Eloge du bon sens dans la Science" (Praise of Common Sense in Science) by Serge BLONDEL, prefaced by F. PRUNIER.

Personal Announcements and Subscriptions

There is a section for "PETITES ANNONCES (gratuites)" (Free Personal Ads) offering vacation rentals, vegetarian pension, and opportunities for reforestation. It also includes a call for contributions from researchers whose work aligns with the magazine's ethos. Subscription details for "Lumières dans la Nuit" are provided, along with information on how to submit correspondence and payments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical state of humanity and the urgent need for a paradigm shift, the promotion of vegetarianism as a path to physical and mental improvement, and a critical examination of established scientific theories. The editorial stance is one of seeking truth beyond conventional wisdom, advocating for a holistic approach to health and life, and promoting unity and foresight to avert global catastrophe. The magazine appears to be a platform for alternative perspectives on science, health, and philosophy, encouraging critical thinking and a proactive approach to life's challenges.