Little Listening Post -1957 06-08 - Vol 04 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: THE LITTLE LISTENING POST
Issue: Vol. 4 No. 3
Date: June - July August - 1957
Publisher: The Little Listening Post
Location: Washington, D.C.

This issue of THE LITTLE LISTENING POST, dated June-July-August 1957, presents a wide array of topics, reflecting a 'far-out' perspective on current events and future possibilities. The publication's self-described mission is to listen to everything on a 'Far-out Front' and report on 'Great Changes are in the Making.'

The Speed-Up for Knowledge Increases!

The lead article, "THE SPEED-UP FOR KNOWLEDGE INCREASES!", discusses the rapid advancement of science and the increasing investment in research. It notes that scientists are exploring new hypotheses, and that a 'whole new octave is coming in!' The article suggests that humanity is on a 'dance floor' of incoming knowledge, leading to a sense of disorientation and a search for 'pilots' to guide through uncharted seas. It highlights the growing influence of science fiction and the 'impossible' becoming reality, while also referencing the looming threat of the 'BOMB.' The piece touches on the concept of 'Faith' as a dynamic force and the idea of 'enchanted' reality through the vibration of the Logos.

D.C. News Capsule

The 'D.C. NEWS' section provides a capsule of local and national news. It mentions increased visitor numbers to Washington, the AEC's new building, and Catholic University receiving funds for an A-reactor. Crime rates in D.C. are noted as the lowest since 1949, contrasting with a national increase. The section also touches on the implementation of phones in cabinet members' cars for emergency use, the impending razing and rebuilding of Historic Cong Church, and the upcoming 'Copter Sightseeing Service.' The publication also notes a visit to the American Association for Advancement of Science, highlighting its large membership and affiliates, and predicts a future direction in Social Science.

Talk of Revolution in Religion Coming!

This section explores the idea that religion may be undergoing a revolution, potentially being stripped of non-essentials to focus on the 'GOLDEN RULE.' It discusses the possibility of 'Spirit Radio & TV' to link with a '4-D world,' which could make current religious 'isms' superfluous. Church buildings are envisioned as centers for rest, beauty, music, and direct help in interpersonal relations. The article suggests that the foundations of Christian Theology are being reassessed, citing author Edgar Seivers. A personal anecdote about finding God through acts of kindness is also included, with a mention of 'Spiritual Healing' being highlighted by WOR, N.Y.

Radiation-Laity Getting Vocal

This part of the issue addresses public concern over radiation and atomic testing. It notes widespread opposition and scientists' concerns about the dangers of nuclear proliferation. The article mentions a petition by scientists to universities protesting the danger and quotes Secretary Quarles on the unique opportunity for the current generation to eliminate war. It highlights concerns about fallout hazards, concealed information, and the potential link between H-bomb dust and children's health issues, including reports of 'freaks' born in Japan. The section also details recent events like the Christmas Island tests and the widespread signing of appeals to end tests due to health risks.

New Kind of Cemeteries

This section discusses the growing problem of radioactive waste disposal, referring to it as 'industrial leprosy.' It details the challenges of managing short-lived gases released from stacks and the burial of solid wastes in designated 'cemeteries' or at sea. The article points out the long-term nature of radioactive waste (centuries) and the difficulty of finding a permanent solution, with the ocean being a primary source of food. The idea of shooting waste into space is mentioned, but with the caveat of potential unknown consequences.

Coming Events and Innovations

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a list of 'COMING' events and technological innovations. These include: underwater 'Dewline' to detect submarines, perfumed buses in Detroit to cover fumes, a high number of avoidable forest fires, plans for thousands of Japanese to go to South America, disposable clothing, installment buying in Russia, 'doorless' houses with downdraft insulation, round and revolving houses, a device to magnify sound, automatic radar landing systems, a 'Visitron' to detect temperature changes, discussions on oil business in the Sahara, 'talking bombs,' a decline in capital punishment, an enclosed arena in New York, aerial prospecting for minerals, a high rate of traffic accidents, land appearing off Chile, a large U.S. Embassy in Ghana with a tech library, auto glass shattering reports, the creation of living matter in labs, de-salted water for dry areas, and a high car-to-person ratio in the U.S. compared to Russia. The section also notes a record number of tornadoes and the potential 'end of poverty in 10 yrs,' but warns of increased ennui, mental illness, drinking, and traffic deaths unless leaders prepare for 'leisure therapy.'

The Saucer Age is Now Ten Years Old!

This section focuses on the phenomenon of UFO sightings, stating that the 'Saucer Age' is ten years old. It discusses the ongoing debate about whether phenomena are 3-D, 4-D, or Inter-D. The frequency of saucer sightings has increased, and more 'serious people' are engaging with the topic. The article mentions 'ESP Groups' and the idea of 'SHOWDOWN re where "Objective" and ESP fit together.' It also references 'New laws in Optics' and 'observation discs' that can record thought. Various international UFO reports and publications are listed, including those from Japan, Amsterdam, Queensland, and Germany. The official response to UFO incidents is noted, such as the military investigation of a hole in the ground in Surrey, England, and the geological survey's concern over gravity anomalies. The section mentions the first photo of a UFO taken in Mexico in 1883 and a report of 1128 objects seen during an eclipse. It also discusses the potential for 'weather control' and the study of meteorology. The article highlights the work of Astronomer Jessup and the potential for catching conversations of jets scrambled in UFO chases. It quotes a British mathematician who believes saucers are controlled by intelligences from outside Earth, possibly to 'save us from ourselves.' The section also touches on a saucer crash in Norway in 1952 and its analysis by the military. It mentions Maj. Keyhoe's upcoming release of information on the Oxnard AFB Case and a plan for cooperation with the Air Force. Several international UFO groups and their activities are described, including a large group in Melbourne using 'U.F.O.-Scopes' and geiger counters. The section concludes by emphasizing the need for an open mind and education of the public attitude regarding UFOs.

Health Front

The 'HEALTH FRONT' discusses the potential for curing T.B. and cancer with soundwaves. It warns about the increasing use of aluminum cans for food and explores the mechanics of the human soul and its limitations. The article mentions potential treatments for mental illness and alcoholism using amino acids, and the possibility of 'sleep' offsetting old age. It notes the current emphasis on tranquilizing drugs due to societal tenseness. Cigarettes are reported as being thoroughly blacklisted in surveys. Research into how cells convert food into energy is ongoing, and a new device is mentioned that combines color TV with a microscope. Radiation is identified as a top health peril, with plans for banks of living cells to protect against A-war. There are calls to ban more chemicals in foods.

New Books

A list of new books is presented, covering topics such as New Age adventure, religion and science, UFOs, and astronomy. Titles include "OVER THE THRESHOLD," "THREE LIVES OF NAOMI HENRY," "COMING OF THE GUARDIANS," "SAUCER DIARY," "NEW HORIZONS IN ASTRONOMY," "MAN INTO SPACE," and "HEART OF THE LION." Other books mentioned are "VISITOR'S PLAN," "S.F. PILGRIMAGE," "FACING REALITY," "THE NIGHT HATH A THOUSAND SAUCERS," and "DISASTER BOOK." The section notes the folding of several small papers and magazines, suggesting a vulnerability to 'mass-minding.'

Junior Skywatch of the Americas

A special supplement introduces "The JUNIOR SKYWATCH OF THE AMERICAS" (JSA), a newly formed organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. The JSA aims to foster a new interest in the sky among youth, encouraging them to become 'Satellite Watchers' and to study Unidentified Flying Objects. The organization will also cover meteorology, 'weather control,' and aerodynamics. Ham radio operators will be involved through 'Clubs of the Air.' The JSA seeks to provide youth with a background that gives them a 'blood relationship' to the new field of SPACE. Henry J. Taylor, Ambassador to Switzerland, is quoted as saying it's difficult to deny that 'something is happening around us.' The JSA membership is $1 a year, and details can be obtained by writing to Arnold Kruckman, Director.

The first JSA public lecture featured Dr. Morris Jessup, and his lecture can be obtained on tape. The supplement urges editors to copy the notice, emphasizing that "Our Youth NEED The JSA! And the world needs the help this Age-Group can so abundantly contribute!" It also references Poul Siple, chosen from 600,000 Boy Scouts for the Byrd Polar Expedition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of THE LITTLE LISTENING POST include the rapid acceleration of scientific knowledge and its societal implications, the growing public awareness and concern regarding radiation and atomic threats, and the pervasive presence of UFO sightings and related phenomena. The publication also emphasizes the importance of 'New Age' concepts, spiritual growth, and the potential for a revolution in religious thought. There is a strong focus on engaging youth in these areas, as evidenced by the promotion of the Junior Skywatch of the Americas. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider unconventional ideas and to maintain an open mind, particularly concerning UFOs and the broader mysteries of the universe. The publication positions itself as a unique source of information on these 'far-out' topics, aiming to inform and stimulate its readership.