1968 05 14 Look John Fuller Flying Saucer Fiasco Lagrange scan

Magazine Overview

This issue of LOOK magazine, dated May 14, 1968, is Volume 32, Number 10, published by Cowles Communications, Inc. The cover features Governor and Mrs. Nelson A. Rockefeller, with prominent headlines announcing "FLYING SAUCER FIASCO: The half-million-dollar cover-up on whether UFO's really exist," "YOUR HEART: Jogging, running, biking—how much can your ticker take?" and "ROCKEFELLER TALKS: Why he refused to fight in the primaries. How he now feels about Vietnam."

Articles and Features

Flying Saucer Fiasco

This extensive article by John G. Fuller delves into the controversial University of Colorado UFO study, headed by physicist Dr. Edward U. Condon. The study, which cost over half a million dollars, was intended to be an objective scientific investigation but faced significant internal turmoil. Several staff scientists expressed concerns about the project's direction, leading to the dismissal of two Ph.D.s and the resignation of an administrative assistant. The article highlights the initial skepticism surrounding the project's composition, with a majority of the first five investigators being psychologists, and the project coordinator, Robert J. Low, holding a business administration degree. Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Maj. Donald Keyhoe of NICAP initially offered cautious support, but later, NICAP broke ties due to perceived bias and lack of thorough investigation of reported cases.

A key point of contention was a memo written by Robert J. Low, which suggested a strategy to present the project as objective to the public while privately harboring low expectations of finding evidence, and focusing on the psychology of witnesses rather than the phenomena itself. This memo, which Low described as a "trick," disturbed several staff members, including Dr. Norman Levine and Dr. James McDonald. Dr. Condon's public statements, which seemed to dismiss the UFO phenomenon, further fueled the controversy. The article details confrontations between staff members and Low and Condon, including an incident where Condon allegedly told Saunders, "For an act like that, you ought to be ruined professionally."

NICAP, through Maj. Donald Keyhoe, issued a statement expressing their break with the project and plans for a new, independent investigation. The article concludes by noting the dimming hope for an objective study and the significant financial investment in the project.

Your Heart: How Much Jogging Is Good for Your Heart?

This health and science article, by Roland H. Berg, explores the benefits and potential risks of jogging for individuals with heart conditions. It features the story of Carlton M. Thompson, a 57-year-old engineer who, after suffering a coronary seizure, has been actively participating in a scientific exercise program at San Diego State College with other men who have diseased hearts. The program, involving all 35 participants exercising with physician consent, has shown positive results in their recovery and well-being.

Rockefeller Talks

This section features an interview with Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller, where he discusses why he refused to fight in the primaries and shares his current feelings about the Vietnam War. The cover photograph prominently features Governor and Mrs. Nelson A. Rockefeller.

Also in this issue:

• TV's Stefanie Powers: The Girl From U.N.C.L.E. This appears to be a feature on the actress Stefanie Powers, known for her role in the television series "The Girl from U.N.C.L.E."
• The National Scene: Includes "Teacher of the Year."
• The World: Features "This Is That War," an editorial, "The Spies Around De Gaulle" by John Scali, and "Memo From Amman: The Death of Hussein's Peace Mission" by Louis E. Lomax.
• Humor: Includes contributions from Rodrigues, Savage, Drucker, and Schlemme.
• Entertainment/Sports: Features "Everybody's Sweet Little Swede."
• Modern Living: Covers "The New Makeup: Thin Brows, Red Lips," "The Brunch Bunch," and "From Hardy Amies: A Tailor-Made Look at Ready-Made Prices."
• Departments: Includes "The World of Leo Rosten London Notebook" and "Letters to the Editor."

Advertisements

The issue also contains advertisements for Nicholson files and cutting tools, Magnavox portable televisions, and Mennen Pushbutton Deodorant.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The dominant theme in this issue is the critical examination of institutions and public perception, particularly evident in the "Flying Saucer Fiasco" article. The magazine appears to champion investigative journalism, aiming to expose potential shortcomings and biases in government-funded research projects. There's a clear emphasis on journalistic integrity and the importance of scientific objectivity, as highlighted by the internal conflicts within the Condon committee. The inclusion of health and political topics suggests a broad editorial scope, aiming to inform readers on a range of significant contemporary issues. The magazine's stance seems to be one of questioning authority and advocating for transparency, especially in matters of public interest and scientific research.