Magonia - No 40 - 1991 08

Magazine Overview

Magonia No. 40, published in August 1991, is a 10-page magazine focusing on unexplained phenomena, with a particular emphasis on UFOs and alien encounters. The issue features articles by Martin Kottmeyer, Mick Goss, and Bill Ellis, alongside regular columns like 'Northern Echoes' and book reviews.

"Flying Saucers From Hell..." by Bill Ellis

This cover story examines alien and satanic cult abduction stories, finding remarkable similarities and important differences. The article suggests that the 'reconnaissance theory' of UFOs, which posits that aliens are observing humanity, was an "exasperated effort to make sense of a phenomenon that refused to be made sense of in any other terms." Ellis notes that the belief in alien surveillance is not exclusive to ufologists but is also held by some contactees.

"Eye in the Sky" by Martin Kottmeyer

Kottmeyer explores the idea that people want to believe aliens are spying on us, framing it as a trick question. He traces the history of the reconnaissance theory, starting with early contactees like Mark Probert and George Hunt Williamson, who claimed communication with extraterrestrials who were observing Earth. The article references numerous accounts where aliens are described as conducting surveillance, using 'spy scopes' and 'registering discs' to monitor human activities and thoughts. Kottmeyer also discusses the psychological underpinnings of this belief, linking it to the concept of the 'conscience' or 'superego' and the universal human experience of being watched, which can manifest as paranoia.

"Peter Rogerson's Northern Echoes"

In this column, Peter Rogerson reflects on his long involvement with ufology and anomalous phenomena. He expresses dissatisfaction with both the uncritical belief systems of 'true-believers' and the often dismissive literature of skeptics. Rogerson highlights the 'inexpressible sense of wrongness' that often accompanies anomalous experiences, suggesting that the 'thrill' of the unexplained is a basic motif. He notes that while individual incidents may be fleeting, the sense of mystery and ambiguity persists, leading to misunderstandings between researchers, believers, and skeptics.

"Old Hat, New Hat" by Michael Goss

Michael Goss discusses the cyclical nature of 'Great Unexplained Phenomena,' arguing that new phenomena often build upon or are variations of older ones. He introduces the concept of the 'boggle-threshold,' suggesting that our acceptance of new phenomena is influenced by our prior exposure to similar events. Goss posits that phenomena lose their charisma through over-exposure and that the public's attention span is limited. He also touches on the historical development of the UFO mythos, noting its presence in earlier forms of popular culture, such as the 1890s 'Airship Waves.'

"The Paranoid Reaction" (Pages 5-8)

This extended section delves deeply into the concept of paranoia and its connection to UFO beliefs. It discusses the psychological origins of the sensation of being watched, linking it to childhood experiences of parental supervision and the internalization of authority figures. The text explores how paranoia can manifest as 'delusions of observation' and how this might be a compromise solution to internal narcissistic mortification. The author suggests that the UFO mythos, particularly the idea of alien surveillance, may be a collective equivalent of these individual delusions, possibly fueled by societal anxieties like nuclear shame (post-Hiroshima) or national crises (Sputnik, Vietnam War, Watergate).

Historical examples of paranoia are drawn from ancient texts (Bible, Greek mythology) and later periods, including the witch hunts and various conspiracy theories throughout American history. The section concludes by suggesting that the UFO phenomenon, with its 'staring eyes' motif, is a variation of these paranoid delusions, prompted by ego crises in individuals and groups.

Subscription Details and Editorial Information

The magazine provides subscription rates for the United Kingdom, Europe, the United States, and other countries, along with instructions for payment. It also lists the editor, John Rimmer, and the editorial panel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the psychological and cultural factors that contribute to belief in UFOs and other anomalous phenomena. There is a clear interest in dissecting the narratives surrounding these events, examining their origins, and understanding the motivations behind both belief and skepticism. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to understand the 'why' behind these phenomena rather than simply accepting or dismissing them. The magazine encourages readers to consider the psychological and sociological underpinnings of belief in the unexplained, suggesting that many phenomena are variations on older themes and may be influenced by societal anxieties and the human need to make sense of the unknown.

This issue of "Flying Saucers from Hell" focuses on the complex and often intertwined narratives of alien abductions and satanic cult abuse, exploring their folkloric roots, psychological underpinnings, and societal impact. The magazine delves into how these phenomena have evolved, drawing parallels with earlier movements like Spiritualism and animal magnetism.

Alien Abductions and Satanic Cult Abductions by Bill Ellis

Bill Ellis's main article, "Alien Abductions and Satanic Cult Abductions," examines the striking similarities between these two types of claims, suggesting they represent common human responses to stress and the revival of older motifs. He notes that while folklorists are adept at finding such parallels, it's crucial to understand why these connections are being made and to avoid explaining away the experiences. The late 1980s saw a surge in both alien abduction claims, often reconstructed through regressive hypnosis, and 'cult survivor' stories of childhood abuse by devil-worshippers. Ellis points out that while both scenarios share motifs, the differences are significant: UFO abductions are framed as reflections of a similar cultural process, whereas satanic abuse claims are seen as more mythological.

Ellis contrasts the two phenomena, noting that UFO abductees generally focus on a recent, puzzling encounter, while satanic cult survivors often recall abuses from a distant past. He highlights that UFO abductees tend to fall within normal psychological ranges, with post-traumatic stress disorder appearing as a reaction to the experience, whereas cult survivors often have histories of psychosis, substance abuse, and self-mutilation. The reconstruction of experiences through therapy, particularly regressive hypnosis, is common to both, but the context and perceived agents differ significantly.

He argues that while alien abductions involve 'superhumans' from an otherworldly realm, satanic abuse is carried out by humans, albeit with potentially superhuman powers. This distinction, though seemingly academic, is crucial in understanding the societal and political implications. Ellis suggests that alien abductees deal with their experiences as part of a mythical otherworld, forming networks for support and to reduce their experiences to a coherent narrative. In contrast, satanic cult survivors perceive their experiences as occurring in real time and the real world, leading to a desire to identify and disarm those responsible.

The article draws parallels between these modern phenomena and older traditions, such as fairy kidnaps and witch-hunts, suggesting a continuity in cultural responses to the paranormal and anomalous. Ellis critiques the 'Satanic Panic' of the 1980s, noting how it fueled accusations of ritual abuse and influenced legal proceedings, sometimes with devastating consequences for individuals.

Ellis concludes by emphasizing the role of folklorists in helping people maintain perspective on these phenomena. He suggests that while folklorists cannot definitively prove or disprove the existence of extraterrestrials or the validity of ritual abuse claims, they can provide a critical lens through which to understand the cultural and psychological factors at play.

Book Reviews

The magazine also features several book reviews related to UFOs and anomalous phenomena:

• "Hantoms of the Sky" by David Clarke and Andy Roberts: This book is praised for its grounded approach, combining earthlight phenomena with psychosocial analysis. It discusses various UFO cases, airship reports, and the religious nature of much UFO research, acknowledging the evolution of 'ufolklore' and its connection to societal concerns.

• "Science: Good, Bad and Bogus" by Martin Gardner and "Science and Supernature: A Critical Appraisal of Parapsychology" by James E. Alcock: These reviews highlight books that critically examine parapsychology and pseudoscience. Gardner's work is noted for its humor and direct approach, while Alcock's is described as more academic, dissecting methodological and statistical flaws in psi experiments. Both are recommended as antidotes to 'gee-whiz' books.

• "Superstition; the true story of the nanny they called a witch" by Carole Crompton: This review frames the book as a typical 'Sun-reader' account of a British nanny accused of starting fires in Italy. It critiques the narrative for its simplistic portrayal of 'paranormalist claims' and the idea that 'white hot anger' can cause fires.

• "The Psychic Power of Children" by Cassandra Eason: The review suggests that despite its potentially alarming title, the book explores children's anomalous experiences, linking them to ideas of unsocialized beings and 'primitive' instincts. It notes how adults interpret these experiences, sometimes as evidence of transcendental realities.

• "Ghosts and Legends of the Peak District" by David Clarke: This book is presented as a useful gazetteer for the Peak District, covering local legends, folk customs, and anomalous phenomena, including UFO cases and 'phantom helicopter' reports. It is noted for its consideration of light phenomena and its connection to earthlight research.

• "UFOs: The Definitive Casebook" by John Spencer: The review criticizes Spencer's book for its superficial compilation of cases, suggesting the author lacks in-depth knowledge and relies on inadequate sources. It points out errors in case explanations and questions the author's judgment, particularly regarding the Missing Norfolk case.

• "The UFO Silencers" by Timothy Green Beckley: This book is described as a collection of Men in Black (MIB) reports, including first-hand accounts and visitation stories. While acknowledging its value in providing a direct view of MIB experiences and fueling MIB mythology, the review notes it lacks scholarly analysis and may reinforce simple paranoia or hoaxes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of anomalous phenomena, particularly UFO abductions and satanic cult abuse, and their relationship to folklore, psychology, and societal anxieties. The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance, encouraging readers to approach these subjects with a degree of skepticism while acknowledging the cultural and psychological significance of the narratives. The editorial stance appears to favor a folkloric and anthropological perspective, seeking to understand the underlying patterns and motivations behind these claims rather than simply accepting them at face value. There's a clear emphasis on providing context and perspective, as highlighted by the concluding statement that folklorists should help people keep such phenomena in perspective.