Magonia - No 31 - 1988 11

Magazine Overview

This issue of Magonia, number 31, dated November 1988, is a 10-page publication that delves into various anomalous phenomena, with a particular focus on UFO skepticism, abduction narratives, and the enduring legend of Elvis Presley's survival. The magazine presents itself as an independent journal examining anomalous phenomena and their interaction with society and the individual, with no connection to other magazines or groups. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily shared by the editors.

The Free Market in UFology

The lead article, "The Free Market in UFology," by an unnamed author, critiques the concept of centralized UFO research organizations, drawing a parallel to Thatcherism's principle that monopolies limit consumer choice. The author argues that while the USA demonstrates a monopoly in ufology through organizations like MUFON, Britain benefits from competition, citing the independent investigations by YUFOS and IUN into cases like the 'Gulf Breeze case' and a supposed abduction in Leeds. This competition, the author contends, is preferable to a monolithic national UFO investigation agency, contrasting it with the situation in America where dissenting views to MUFON are allegedly suppressed.

Nightmares, Sex and Abductions

Manfred Cassirer's extensive article, "Nightmares, Sex and Abductions," explores the historical and psychological dimensions of nocturnal experiences, particularly the 'Old Hag' phenomenon and its alleged connection to demonic and UFO-related visitations. Cassirer traces the concept of incubi and succubi from Renaissance demonology through to modern interpretations. He highlights the common features of these experiences, such as full consciousness, immobility, and sensations of pressure, and notes their assimilation into witchcraft beliefs. The article also touches upon alleged artificial insemination and fetal abduction scenarios, suggesting a link to UFO narratives. Cassirer discusses historical accounts, including those from Cotton Mather and Guazzo, and contemporary cases, such as that of Elsa, a young Englishwoman who reported a nocturnal encounter.

The (Urban) Legendary Elvis

Michael Goss contributes a lengthy piece titled "The (Urban) Legendary Elvis," examining the persistent rumors and claims that Elvis Presley did not die in 1977 but faked his death to escape the pressures of fame. Goss analyzes reports from publications like the Sunday Sport and the Weekly World News, which have featured interviews with individuals claiming to be Elvis or to have met him after his supposed death. He discusses various alleged sightings, including one in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and another involving a 'Phantom Hitch-Hiker.' Goss also touches upon the phenomenon of 'survival rumors' for other celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Jim Morrison, and Bruce Lee, suggesting that these stories tap into a desire for a 'Golden Age' and reflect a broader cultural fascination with the possibility of life beyond death.

Other Content

The issue also includes "Mystery Circles: Our Golden Opportunity" by Paul Fuller, and a "Books Extra" section featuring a review of Randles' 'Abduction.' The "Reviews" section includes "Northern Echoes" and "Letters."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Magonia exhibits a consistent editorial stance of skepticism towards centralized authority and a preference for independent, competitive investigation, particularly in the field of ufology. The magazine appears to embrace a critical yet open-minded approach to anomalous phenomena, exploring historical, psychological, and folkloric dimensions. There is a clear interest in debunking simplistic explanations while also acknowledging the enduring power of myths and legends, such as the Elvis survival stories. The magazine seems to position itself as a platform for detailed, often critical, analysis of topics that challenge conventional understanding, encouraging readers to consider multiple perspectives and the underlying cultural factors that shape belief in the paranormal.

This issue of Magonia, dated September 1987 (Volume 11, Issue 11), features a prominent article by Paul Fuller titled "MYSTERY CIRCLES: Our Golden Opportunity." The magazine focuses on the phenomenon of crop circles and advocates for a scientific approach to understanding them, critiquing sensationalist theories often promoted within ufology.

The Vortex Theory of Circle Origin

Paul Fuller's main article argues strongly for the "Vortex Theory" of crop circle origin, which he has continued to promote. He addresses a review by John Harney in Magonia 27 that dismissed the theory, clarifying that Dr. Terence Meaden of TORRO proposed a *descending* vortex, not an ordinary ascending one. Fuller expresses concern about colleagues who maintain a less critical attitude towards the phenomenon.

He describes the mystery circles as fascinating, complex features that offer clues to their natural, vortex-related origin. Key characteristics highlighted include:

• Precise Definition: Each part of the affected area is precisely defined, unlike the radial spread of helicopter downwash.
• Swirl Pattern: An off-centred swirl pattern within the circle, mirroring the rotation of the vortex, with roughly equal proportions of clockwise and anti-clockwise swirls, similar to minor vortex events.
• Layering: The crop is laid down in several distinctive layers, pointing in different directions, suggesting the vortex column moved within the zone of activity, displacing upper layers of the crop on multiple occasions.
• Minimal Damage: The circles show almost total lack of damage to the crop itself, with stems not snapped and heads largely intact, suggesting deformation by air pressure rather than mechanical means.
• Variety of Formations: Over a dozen different formation types have been discovered, which are described as evocative and beautiful.

Fuller notes that outer rings of formations display similar characteristics to parent circles and exhibit the same vortex origin, with tiny sheaths of contra-rotating air surrounding the vortex funnel, akin to waterspouts.

He points out that many circles appear near the bases of steeply inclined hill slopes, supporting the idea of 'trailing vortices' generated by topographical features and 'standing waves' of lee-side eddy currents.

Fuller emphasizes that the Vortex Theory offers a unique challenge to ufologists, testing their ability to evaluate theories and investigate anomalies scientifically. He criticizes some ufologists for dismissing the theory without proper consideration and for pandering to sensationalism with "wildly speculative theories about 'paranormal' UFOs." He argues that the ufological paradigm must include mundane, natural hypotheses for UFO phenomena.

BUFORA/TORRO Survey Findings

The article details a postal survey conducted in January 1987 in Hampshire and Wiltshire, aiming to establish quantifiable aspects of the phenomenon and landowner beliefs. Ninety valid responses were received from cereal farmers. Key findings include:

• UFO Beliefs: Virtually no support among landowners that UFOs were creating the circles; 'Hoaxing' and 'The Weather' were more likely explanations.
• Number of Formations: The survey predicted that about ten times the number of formations reported were actually appearing.
• Formation Types: A non-random distribution of formation types suggested that media bias was distorting knowledge and creating an apparent evolution of types, possibly indicating hoaxes.
• No Paranormal Accounts: The survey failed to produce a single account of a 'paranormal' UFO creating a circle formation.

Overall, the survey findings were consistent with the hypothesis that a rare, natural phenomenon was responsible for the circles.

Critique of Sensationalism in Ufology

Fuller expresses frustration with ufologists who promote "wildly speculative theories" about UFOs, 'invisible earth forces,' and 'ley lines,' dismissing more rational approaches. He criticizes the magazine *Flying Saucer Review* (FSR) for promoting a dubious case involving a UFO creating ground traces at Cheesefoot Head, highlighting inconsistencies in the witness's account and the lack of photographic evidence despite claims. He argues that such sensationalism damages the credibility of ufology and leads to the dismissal of UFO data by detractors.

He calls for ufologists to adopt more stringent investigative criteria and to discard outdated theories, emphasizing the need to be seen by the scientific community as co-operating in a quest for knowledge.

Letters to the Editor

This section features correspondence from readers:

• Anthony R Brown criticizes the "misplaced smugness" in Magonia, particularly from Peter Rogerson, and argues that while psychology has a place, it should not be the sole explanation for UFO phenomena. He advocates for more productive lines of inquiry and criticizes the dismissal of scientific mechanisms.
• Dennis Stillings congratulates the editor on the latest edition of Magonia and regrets not attending a conference.
• Jacques Vallée responds to comments on his book "Dimensions," clarifying that earlier works were summarized and updated, and that this was made clear in the book. He also addresses the issue of UFO abduction reports, noting that some are explained by psychological needs, but questioning the motivations of abductionists themselves.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• "The Monocled Mutineer" by John Fawley and William Allison is reviewed, detailing the career of Percy Topliss, a con-man and alleged mutineer.
• "The Secret Lives of Trebitsch Lincoln" by Paul Wasserstein is reviewed, chronicling the life of a Hungarian Jewish adventurer who became an Anglican clergyman, an MP, and later involved in criminal activities.
• "Barefaced Messiah; the L Ron Hubbard Story" is reviewed, discussing L. Ron Hubbard's rise to fame through Dianetics and Scientology, comparing his mythology to 1930s film serials and cult leader behavior.
• "Lost Lands and Sunken Cities" by Nigel Pennick is reviewed, focusing on coastal changes in Britain and deluge myths.
• "Disneyland of the Gods" by John Keel is reviewed, described as a rehash of older tales and a "bitty, picky" work that seems out of touch with current ufology.
• "The New Age; notes of a fringe watcher" by Martin Gardner is reviewed, a collection of skeptical essays from *Skeptical Enquirer* that critically examines paranormal and New Age preoccupations.
• "The Sprouts of Wrath" by Robert Rankin is reviewed as the fourth part of his "Brentford Trilogy," described as a blend of "Alastair Crowley meets Minder."
• "UFO Abductions; a dangerous game" by Philip J. Klass is reviewed. Klass is critical of Budd Hopkins and others, suggesting that abductionists may be spreading the phenomenon and that some experiences may reflect the abductionist's personality. He praises Klass's ability to distinguish underlying currents of personal behavior and his reasoned approach.
• "The Monuments of Mars; a city on the edge of forever" by Richard C. Hoagland is mentioned briefly.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly crop circles and UFOs. The magazine advocates for a rational, evidence-based approach, critiquing sensationalism and speculative theories. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between natural explanations and paranormal interpretations. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting critical thinking and a mature approach to ufology, encouraging cooperation with the scientific community while remaining open to genuine anomalies. The issue also touches upon the psychology of belief and the potential for self-deception or manipulation within the UFO field.