Magonia - No 24 - 1986 11

Magazine Overview

Title: Magonia
Issue: Number 24
Date: November 1986
Publisher: Independent journal published by the editors.
Country: ENGLAND
Language: English

This issue of Magonia, an independent journal examining anomalous phenomena and their interaction with society, features a cover story on the Japanese 'shito-dama' or 'fireball spirit,' alongside a critical analysis of Michael Persinger's Tectonic Strain Theory (TST) concerning UFO sightings.

Editorial Notes

The editors apologize for the 'poor graphical appearance' of this issue, attributing it to the breakdown of their electronic typewriter. They have switched to an Amstrad word-processor to complete the copy, resulting in a combination of styles and layouts that is 'not aesthetically pleasing.' They promise a more polished next issue and note that this issue largely deals with 'BOLS/earthlights/fireballs,' with more articles on the subject to appear later.

The Japanese Fireball Spirit (Shito-Dama)

Author: Michael Goss

This article explores the Japanese 'shito-dama,' a phenomenon described as an eerie nocturnal ball of light or flame, often interpreted as the spirit of a deceased person seeking revenge or justice. The author draws parallels between the Japanese folklore surrounding the shito-dama and Western traditions, such as the 'Palatine Light' from Rhode Island and 'Will o'the Wisp' or 'Jack o'Lantern' in Britain.

The shito-dama is linked to historical figures like Akechi Mitsuhide, a daimyo who rebelled against his lord. According to local legend, after Akechi's death, a fireball appeared from his castle to wreak vengeance on fishermen who had betrayed him. This narrative, while possibly a romanticized version of events, highlights the Japanese cultural emphasis on justice, loyalty, and supernatural revenge.

The article contrasts these folkloric interpretations with rationalist explanations, such as marsh gas ignition, but argues that the persistent belief in the spiritual nature of these lights across cultures suggests a deeper, common human response to the unknown.

Similar to the shito-dama, the 'Palatine Light' is associated with a historical tragedy – the wreck of the Princess Augusta in 1738. Despite historical evidence suggesting no foul play by locals and no burning ship, the legend persisted, attributing the light to a supernatural manifestation of a past crime.

Western phenomena like 'corpse-lights' and 'corpse-candles' are also discussed, described as eerie nocturnal lights believed to be the souls of the deceased, often associated with unacknowledged crimes or social obligations. The article notes the remarkable uniformity of believer responses across cultures, suggesting that people interpret the unknown in similar ways, reflecting a shared human sense of justice and a desire to believe in an afterlife.

Tectonic Strain Theory (TST) and UFOs

Author: Claude Mauge

This section critically examines Michael Persinger's Tectonic Strain Theory (TST), which posits that UFO phenomena are geophysical manifestations linked to seismicity and crustal deformation. The theory proposes three levels of analysis: large-scale space-time patterns, individual UFO events, and the neuropsychological contributions of the observer.

Reliability of Ufological Data:

The author, along with Rutkowski, raises significant concerns about the reliability of the data sources used by Persinger, such as UFOCAT and Fate. An analysis of French and Belgian trace cases from UFOCAT suggests a high proportion of dubious or explained cases, questioning the validity of using such data for a statistical model.

The Correlation Problem:

Despite data concerns, TST has produced seemingly coherent results. However, the author suggests these correlations might be statistical artifacts, potentially biased by the heterogeneous nature of UFO data and the selective choice of geophysical variables that yield the best correlations. The theory's reliance on unobservable strain as the cause for both UFOs and earthquakes is noted, and the spatial-temporal coupling is questioned.

Critiques of TST:

• Data Selection: Persinger is criticized for not adequately considering sociological factors, such as the influence of media, in UFO waves. The theory's focus on geophysical variables overlooks the 'sociological hypothesis' which explains many UFO reports as misinterpretations or culturally influenced narratives.
• Extrapolation: The theory's assumption that laboratory findings on 'micro' effects can be extrapolated to explain 'EM columns' and their physiological effects on witnesses is questioned. The article notes that while hallucinations can be induced, the link to UFO encounters and specific EM fields is not definitively established.
• Temporal Lobe Transients: The author points out that Persinger himself has developed the 'temporal lobe transients hypothesis,' suggesting that religious and mystical experiences, including UFO encounters, might be explained by temporal lobe dysfunctions triggered by various stimuli (fatigue, stress, etc.) rather than solely by geophysical phenomena.

Conclusion:

Mauge concludes that TST may be unnecessary for the majority of sightings, which could be explained by 'socio-psychological hypotheses.' For the remaining cases, temporal lobe transients or similar processes, along with limited geophysical phenomena in specific areas, might suffice. For TST to be considered a robust scientific theory, Persinger would need to strengthen his correlations by incorporating sociological factors, clarify the mechanisms of the 'EM Column,' and detail its effects on the central nervous system.

Old Moore's Armour Knack

Author: Jenny Randles

This piece discusses the controversy surrounding Patrick Moore and his alleged involvement in the hoaxed book 'Flying Saucer from Mars.' Jenny Randles provides background information, detailing how the UFO field has a capacity for self-policing. She mentions that the hoax was an 'open secret' in astronomical circles, with Moore reportedly denying his involvement. The article touches upon a legal threat from Moore against anyone publishing claims of his involvement.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Magonia consistently explores the intersection of folklore, cultural beliefs, and unexplained phenomena. The comparison between Japanese and Western supernatural beliefs highlights a universal human tendency to interpret the unknown through established narratives, particularly those involving justice, revenge, and the survival of the soul. The critical examination of Tectonic Strain Theory reflects an editorial stance that values rigorous scientific inquiry, questioning the validity of theories that rely on questionable data or fail to account for all relevant factors, including sociological influences. The magazine appears committed to investigating UFO phenomena but maintains a skeptical yet open-minded approach, encouraging self-policing within the field and demanding robust evidence and theoretical frameworks.

Title: Exploring the Supernatural
Issue: Vol. 3, No. 4
Date: July 1986
Price: £2.50
Publisher: Magonia

This issue of *Exploring the Supernatural* focuses heavily on UFO-related controversies and paranormal research, with a significant portion dedicated to debunking or questioning established figures and theories within the ufology community.

Key Articles and Discussions

Flying Saucers from Moore's

The lead article, "Flying Saucers from Moore's," addresses the alleged involvement of Patrick Moore in promoting the 'Adamski fairy-tale.' The author recounts an interaction with an individual who refused to discuss the matter, citing the ridiculousness of the subject and the attraction of 'nuts, freaks, cranks, wierdos.' The article details how journalists from *The Star* and *News of the World* pursued stories related to Prince Charles's alleged interest in the paranormal and the Moore/Allingham affair. The authors, Chris Allan and Steuart Campbell, are commended for their efforts in salvaging the reputation of ufologists and for uncovering what are described as 'diabolical tricks' attributed to Patrick Moore.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters provide commentary on the articles and broader themes:

• Robert Moore expresses gratitude to Allan and Campbell for exposing Patrick Moore's role in the Adamski story, while also criticizing the 'zealous approach' of groups like Quest/YUFOS and their dismissal of non-UFO related paranormal topics. He laments the current state of ufology, which he feels has become overly focused on 'spaceships' and lost its objectivity.
• David Taylor praises the *Magonia* article on Moore and congratulates Allan and Campbell. He finds the criticism from YUFOS amusing and notes the hostile reactions 'new ufology' still receives. Taylor also discusses the 'earthlights' theory, suggesting it's a worthwhile idea but may not explain all UFO phenomena, and observes a trend towards 'natural UFO' explanations similar to a past revolt against the 'ETH' (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis).
• Steuart Campbell writes a letter to the editor challenging an article by Peter Rogerson regarding the Loch Ness Monster and kelpies. Campbell corrects interpretations of folklore, emphasizing that kelpies were evil spirits in horse form and did not take human form or impregnate women. He also defends Ian Ridpath's explanation of the Serena UFO report, criticizing Willy Smith's rejection of it and arguing that Ridpath, by using the scientific method, is indeed a scientist.

Book Reviews

The issue features several book reviews covering a range of paranormal and esoteric topics:

• 'The Limits of Influence: Psychokinesis and the Philosophy of Science' by Stephen E. Braude: Reviewed by an unnamed author (likely JH), this book argues that laboratory experiments are insufficient to prove psychokinesis (PK). Braude favors re-examining non-experimental evidence, particularly from physical mediums like D. D. Home and Eusapia Palladino. While the book is considered an interesting addition to the literature, it is noted for not formulating a testable scientific theory for PK.
• 'Cat Flaps; Northern Mystery Cats' by Andy Roberts: Reviewed by JR, this booklet examines anomalous 'big cat' sightings in Northern England. It makes a case for a physical explanation, possibly involving feral cats and wildcats, while also considering psychological and folkloric aspects. The review highlights its essential reading for those interested in physical phenomena.
• 'The Treasure House of Images' by Gareth Knight and 'The Mythic Tarot' by Juliet Sharman-Burke and Liz Greene: Reviewed by JR, these books explore the Tarot. Knight's contribution covers the history and occult belief surrounding Tarot, while Sharman-Burke and Greene link Tarot to Classical mythology. The review notes that the specially designed cards for 'The Mythic Tarot' are in a 'wishy-washy art nouveau style.'
• 'Far Journeys' by Robert A. Monroe: Reviewed by an unnamed author (likely MG), this sequel to 'Journeys out of the Body' details Monroe's out-of-body experiences (OOBEs). The review criticizes the lack of scientific approach and focuses on Monroe's 'feverish imagination and psychological quirks,' noting the dialogues with entities and the invented jargon.
• 'Return from Death: an exploration of the near-death experience' by Margot Grey: Reviewed by an unnamed author (likely MG), this book reviews NDE reports and their after-effects, noting similarities to UFO 'abduction' experiences. It mentions alarming prophecies of a terrible event in 1988.
• 'Life After Death; the case for survival of bodily death' by D. Scott Rogo: Reviewed by an unnamed author (likely MG), this book examines OOBEs, NDEs, reincarnation, and other phenomena related to survival after death. The reviewer notes Rogo's awareness of the complexity of the subject.
• 'Masks of the Soul; the facts behind reincarnation' by Benjamin Walker: Reviewed by JH, this book reviews the history of reincarnation beliefs and arguments for and against it. Walker finds the concept morally and ethically unacceptable.
• 'Earthquest Books' by Andrew Collins: Reviewed by JR, this is described as a guide for 'earth-mystery enthusiasts,' covering occult lore and sites in England, accessible via public transport.
• 'The Night-Side of Nature: or ghosts and ghost-seers' by Catherine Crowe: Reviewed by PR, this compilation of early Victorian supernatural folklore is praised for its insight into beliefs before the SPR's tidying-up processes. The ghosts described are active, conversing, warning, and helping.
• 'Politics, Science and Cancer: the laetrile phenomenon' by Gerald E. Markel and James C. Peterson: Briefly mentioned, this book discusses unorthodox cancer treatments and debates about government enforcement of scientific opinion.
• 'Human Possibilities; mind exploration in the USSR and Eastern Europe' by Stanley Krippner: Briefly mentioned, this is described as a naive account of Soviet life and parapsychology.
• 'Miracles: a para-scientific inquiry into wondrous phenomena' by D. Scott Rogo: Reviewed by an unnamed author (likely JR), this book explores Catholic miracles but is marred by Rogo's uncritical acceptance of polemical sources and parapsychological theories. The reviewer notes Rogo's surprising statement that a 'spiritual realm exists in the universe.'
• 'Myth and Today's Consciousness' by Ean Begg: Reviewed by an unnamed author (likely JR), this book is described as a Jungian meditation on the 'coming age of Aquarius.' The reviewer expresses disillusionment with Jungianism, seeing it as reflecting 'racist and sexist prejudices.'
• 'Beyond Supernature: a new natural history of the supernatural' by Lyall Watson: Reviewed by MG, this book explores the idea of a vast, interconnected organism and 'group soul' ('sama'). While dynamic and readable, the reviewer finds the material overly familiar and the eclectic approach to be a common convention in psi literature. The review notes Watson's appeal for a 'slightly broader definition of reality.'
• 'The Hidden Power' by Brian Inglis: Reviewed by FR, this book is characterized as a mixture of credulity and ill-tempered polemic, dividing the world into 'goodies' and 'baddies.' The reviewer criticizes Inglis for his simplistic view and his attack on scientists, suggesting the book does no service to psychical research and is a 'public relations disaster.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions established figures and narratives within ufology, particularly Patrick Moore. There is a clear preference for critical analysis and a skepticism towards overly sensationalized or unverified claims. The reviews showcase a broad interest in paranormal phenomena, from UFOs and ghosts to psychokinesis and near-death experiences, but often with a critical eye towards the methodologies and conclusions presented in the reviewed works. The editorial stance appears to favor a more grounded, scientific approach to the paranormal, while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena and the limitations of current scientific understanding. There is also an undercurrent of frustration with the perceived irrationality and dogmatism within certain segments of the ufology community.