Magonia - No 15 - 1984 04

Magazine Overview

Title: Magonia
Issue: 15
Date: April 1984
Publisher: Independent journal published by the Editors.
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

Editorial Notes

The editorial section addresses a controversy regarding UFO books being removed from public libraries, refuting claims made by FSR Editor Gordon Creighton. The editors defend librarians against allegations of deliberately suppressing UFO literature, emphasizing that book theft is a more likely reason for unavailability and that Magonia aims to be the leading independent UFO journal.

The Breakthrough of the Psycho-Sociological Hypothesis in French Ufology

Author: Jacques Scorneaux

This article explores the growing doubt among French ufologists about UFOs being a genuinely original physical phenomenon. Scorneaux highlights Michel Monnerie's arguments: the non-specificity of unexplained cases (similarities with explained ones) and the continuity between trivial and extraordinary phenomena. Monnerie suggests UFOs are 'fringe phenomena' on a larger distribution curve, often misinterpreted due to witness anxiety and the influence of cultural myths, particularly the extraterrestrial concept. The author notes that while hoaxes and hallucinations are rare, most UFO sightings are misperceptions of known stimuli. He argues that even if all reports were misperceptions, the extent of distortion would constitute a new phenomenon worthy of study. Scorneaux points out the lack of thorough studies on UFOs in human sciences literature, suggesting a reluctance to engage with the topic. He proposes that UFOs, as a phenomenon of misinterpreted and distorted perception, are revolutionary for behavioral sciences and can help understand the function of myths in society.

Flying Saucer Imagery in China

Author: Thierry Pinvidic

This review examines a book about UFOs in China and the background to the current interest in the subject there. Pinvidic suggests that UFOs are entering China as a 'cultural artifact' alongside Western products like Coca-Cola, driven by a desire for cultural emancipation. He notes that Chinese UFO sightings have been heavily influenced by Western reports, with the press echoing European and US sightings. The article highlights the rapid increase in UFO reports and the establishment of a UFO magazine in China since 1980. Pinvidic argues that many reported cases, even those claimed to be historical, are influenced by existing Western UFO imagery and that the distinction between UFOs and ancient myths is often blurred by proponents like Shi Bo. He proposes that the 'distance' between a culture and Western culture, influenced by socio-economic, political, and religious factors, is crucial in how UFO stereotypes are adopted. He advocates for a focus on cases from 'ufologically virgin' countries, free from Western contamination, and for improved investigation techniques.

It's All in the Mind

Author: Peter Rogerson

Peter Rogerson presents his evolving doubts about the physical reality of UFOs, initially a believer in the 'nuts and bolts' (ETH) theory. His skepticism grew after realizing many UFO books offered little new information and that many ufologists were cranks. The Apollo moon landing and the idea of electromagnetic spaceships seemed absurd. He found John Keel's ideas on folklore and parapsychology more compelling. Rogerson's current view is that UFOs are largely products of the human imagination, possibly involving collective hallucinations, psi, and the collective unconscious, but acknowledges that a small residue of cases remains unexplained. He discusses the hallucinatory theory of apparitions, including hypnogogic and hypnopompic imagery, and false awakenings, citing research by Peter McKellar and Keith Basterfield. Rogerson emphasizes that UFO experiences are not solely individual but are social and cultural phenomena, influenced by collective beliefs and feedback loops. He notes the difficulty in distinguishing between subjective experiences and objective reality, and the need for research into the social context of these experiences.

Letters

Letter from Jerome Clarke (USA): Clarke defends Jenny Randles against Peter Rogerson's criticism, stating that Randles' FATE article on the 'UFO Murder' case was balanced and did not sensationalize the incident, concluding that the cause of Mr. Adamski's death remains unknown.

Letter from Ray D Manners (USA): Manners expresses his appreciation for Magonia and his background in meteor observation, which he believes makes him a competent observer of UFOs. He shares his skepticism of reports from officials with limited knowledge of the night sky and commends Magonia's approach.

Letter from Nigel Watson (UK): Watson inquires about the cessation of Peter Rogerson's INTCAT (International UFO Catalogue) project and expresses his belief that Rogerson deserves recognition for his work. He suggests that the project's suspension might be due to a lack of reader feedback and critical comments.

Letter from Jan Krogh (Norway): Krogh criticizes Hilary Evans' article on Norway, stating that the situation is more complex and that hoaxes and psychic incidents have been identified by NIVFO. He disputes claims about the complexity of UFO phenomena and expresses doubt about the reliability of some UFO reports and photographs.

Letter from Alan Gardiner (UK): Gardiner comments on two articles, one on Algeria and one on Norway, highlighting how different cultural contexts influence UFO phenomena. He notes that Algeria's Islamic influence dampens the 'Sohone Taira' concept, while Norway's fear of invasion influences perceptions.

Books

Review of 'UFO Reality' by Jenny Randles: The reviewer finds the book disappointing and irritating, based on poor arguments and wishful thinking. While acknowledging the existence of some unexplained cases, the reviewer criticizes Randles' conclusion that UFOs are intelligently controlled, physical alien devices that emit harmful radiation and cause harm. The review disputes Randles' interpretation of evidence and her tendency to sensationalize cases.

Review of 'The Evidence for Visions of the Virgin Mary' by Kevin McClure: This book is praised for its critical yet sensitive summary of Marian visions, providing an excellent introduction for novices. The reviewer notes McClure's focus on psychological and sociological contexts, the thin border between religious visions and folklore, and the commonality of stressful conditions for percipients.

Review of 'The Rebirth of Magic' by Francis King and Isabel Sutherland: The book is described as a generally skeptical but sympathetic summary of the rise of modern ritual magic, drawing parallels between the world of ritual magicians and ufologists. It is recommended as an excellent introduction to the subject.

Review of 'Research in Parapsychology: abstracts and papers from the 24th Annual Convention of the Parapsychology Association, 1981': This volume covers various topics, including PK and Ganzfield experiments. A paper by Theodore X. Barber and Sheryl C. Wilson is highlighted for its discussion of 'fantasy-prone' personalities and their vivid, sometimes hallucinatory, experiences, which can be linked to UFO experiences.

Review of 'The Shadow and the Light' by Elizabeth Jenkins: This book is criticized for its lack of critical scholarship and its credulous acceptance of Daniel Dunglas Home's claims. The reviewer notes the difficulty in verifying 'accurately reported' feats and the polemical nature of the evidence.

Review of 'The Spiritualists' by Ruth Brandon: This book is found to be a polemical skepticism rather than a serious analysis of nineteenth-century spiritualism.

Review of 'The Evidence for UFOs' by Hilary Evans: The reviewer acknowledges the book's attempt to cover various aspects of UFOs but finds it lacks depth in discussing individual cases. The reviewer expresses doubt about the author's claims regarding the number of thoroughly investigated UFO sightings and photographs, and questions the author's 'sanguine' possibility of truly exotic origins for UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the psycho-social interpretation of UFO phenomena, the influence of culture and society on belief systems, and the critical analysis of evidence. Magonia positions itself as a journal dedicated to a broad examination of the UFO phenomenon and its interaction with society, emphasizing a rigorous and analytical approach, distinct from sensationalism or uncritical acceptance of claims. The editors appear to favor a skeptical but open-minded stance, encouraging thorough research and a focus on the social and psychological aspects of UFO experiences.

This issue of Magonia, identified by volume 'B' and issue number '20', appears to be from 1985. The cover headline focuses on a critique of Brian Inglis's book, 'Natural and Supernatural,' describing it as 'oversimplistic and misleading.' The issue delves into critical reviews of books concerning psychical research and cryptozoology, alongside news about specialized booksellers.

Book Review: Ruth Brandon's 'Natural and Supernatural'

The review critically examines Ruth Brandon's central thesis that individuals who took alleged paranormal phenomena seriously were motivated by religion. The reviewer argues that this point is underdeveloped and lacks detailed discussion on the specific reasons why religious doubts might have attracted people to spiritualism. The reviewer contrasts the motivations of early spiritualists, who saw themselves as part of a progressive, 'scientific' movement, with later phenomena like table-tilting. The review contends that Brandon's thesis breaks down due to her overlooking the fact that many champions of 'materialisation' phenomena, such as Richet and Schrenck-Notzing, were vehement materialists, not necessarily driven by religious motives. The reviewer also points out factual errors in Brandon's work, such as the incorrect death date for Mrs. Piper, and accuses her of taking events and comments out of context, employing heavy editorialising, and using 'guilt by association.'

A specific example cited is the case of Mrs. Piper, a celebrated nineteenth-century mental medium. When interviewed by the New York Herald, she indicated a preference for telepathy over spirits as an explanation for her information. The Herald ran a sensational headline, and Mrs. Piper later clarified her position in the Boston Advertiser. The reviewer notes that Brandon uses the word 'confession' in relation to this clarification and places the story within a context of fraudulent mediums, drawing heavily from Joseph Rinn's 'Searchlight on Psychical Research,' a book described as 'wildly inaccurate' and associated with James Randi.

The review draws a parallel between the attitudes of Brandon and other 'sceptics' towards magicians and mediums, suggesting a bias. It likens the heated but unproductive dialogues between Brian Inglis and Ruth Brandon, which appeared in New Scientist, to a dialogue between Arthur Scargill and Margaret Thatcher, implying a lack of common ground and entrenched positions.

Book Review: Roy P. Mackal's 'Searching for Hidden Animals'

This section reviews Roy P. Mackal's book, 'Searching for Hidden Animals: An Enquiry into Zoological Mysteries,' published by Cadogan Books in 1983 for £8.95. Mackal, known for his search for dinosaurs in central Africa, is presented as heading an institute of Cryptozoology. The review finds the book less exciting than Mackal's previous endeavors, stating that he focuses on 'rather dull but worthy contenders for 'hidden animals'.' The reviewer expresses a sentiment that the era of discovering new large animals like the okapi has passed, and Mackal's hopes might be 'pretty forlorn.' The review notes that some stories have a 'whiff of the sort of 'Boys Own Paper' adventure story' and concludes with a lighthearted remark about avoiding malaria at Fort Augustus, referencing Nessie.

Book News: New Postal Booksellers

This section announces the receipt of the first catalogue from ALPHA BOOKS, a new postal bookseller specializing in second-hand and antiquarian books on folklore, occultism, mythology, and magic. Operated by Tony Maddock at 60 Langdon Park Road, London N6 5QG, ALPHA BOOKS is noted for including a good selection of early UFO material in its catalogue, with a second catalogue expected soon. The bookseller is 'strongly recommended.'

Additionally, the news mentions John Trotter of Middle East Books, London NW7, who has sold a wide range of occult, paranormal, and UFO-related books. Trotter is reportedly leaving this field to concentrate on topics more closely related to the title of his enterprise.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical analysis of paranormal claims and literature. The editorial stance appears to be skeptical but open to rigorous investigation, as evidenced by the detailed critiques of books on psychical research and cryptozoology. There is a clear distinction made between genuine inquiry and what is perceived as sensationalism or flawed methodology. The inclusion of news about specialized booksellers suggests an interest in providing resources for readers interested in these niche subjects. The overall tone is analytical and evaluative, aiming to provide readers with informed perspectives on controversial topics.