Magonia - No 56 - 1996 06

Magazine Overview

Title: Magonia
Issue: 56
Date: June 1996
Publisher: Magonia Magazine
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1.25

This issue of Magonia, titled "Interpreting Contemporary Vision and Belief," delves into various aspects of fortean phenomena, skepticism, and contemporary legends. It features a prominent cover story on "The Godlings Descend," exploring the parallels between UFO lore and religious symbolism, alongside an examination of the "Organ Snatchers" rumor and tributes to a key contributor, Roger Sandell.

Remembering Roger

This section features tributes to Roger Sandell, a significant contributor to Magonia and other fortean publications. Michael Goss remembers Sandell's unique perspective on phenomena like "Shouting Men" in New York, highlighting his appreciation for the surreal, ironic, and humanly-accessible sense of humor in the face of dark visions. Goss emphasizes Sandell's belief that humor and common-sense can dispel paranoia. Peter Rogerson recounts his 24-year friendship with Sandell, beginning in 1971. He details Sandell's extensive knowledge, prodigious memory, and wide-ranging interests in UFO cases, folklore, politics, and fringe beliefs. Rogerson notes Sandell's disillusionment with low-standard UFO literature and his eventual engagement with historical research, particularly on the 'ancient astronaut' hypothesis. The development of MUFOB and Magonia is traced through their correspondence and meetings. Rogerson highlights Sandell's central moral purpose of advocating for a world with bread, peace, justice, and dignity, and his integrity in resigning a teaching post on principle. Sandell's emergence as a key figure in discussions on the Satanism scare and his development of a wide range of contacts are also mentioned. Rogerson expresses the profound loss of Sandell's reason, knowledge, and common-sense, especially as the world faces increasing "millennial lunacy."

Organ Snatchers: Examining a Rumor

Peter Burger's article, "Organ Snatchers," critically examines the sensational story that has haunted the media for years: the alleged theft of children's kidneys and corneas in Latin America for wealthy Americans. Burger analyzes the documentary "Organ Snatchers" by Marie-Monique Robin, which popularized this message. He presents evidence that the case of Pedro Reggi, who claims his corneas were stolen, is contradicted by medical records indicating he was born with bilateral glaucoma and lost his eyesight due to eye diseases. Similarly, the story of 10-year-old Jeison Cruz Vargas, presented as a victim of organ theft, is contested by the hospital and the Colombian government. French specialists examined Jeison and found that his eyeballs were present, and the damage to his eyesight was due to infection common in malnourished infants, not theft. Burger highlights that such stories, while emotionally compelling, are often based on rumors and legends rather than verified facts. He notes that these rumors have had real consequences, causing a drop in organ donations and negatively impacting international adoptions. The article also touches upon the USIA's campaign against such allegations, which originated partly from Cold War propaganda.

The EuroKidney Gang and Moral Panics

This section, by Peter Brookesmith, continues the investigation into the organ trafficking rumors, exploring their origins and the psychological mechanisms behind them. Brookesmith argues that the organ theft rumors are a synthesis of two real issues in Latin America: child adoption and organ trafficking. He notes that the demand for adoption from American and European couples, coupled with the reality of child exploitation and the sale of body parts in some third-world countries, fuels these rumors. The article connects these contemporary fears to older traditions of folklore, such as the "pishtaco" of Andean Indians who allegedly hunt for human fat and organs. Brookesmith then discusses the "EuroKidney Gang" legend, which emerged around the opening of EuroDisney in Paris, concerning children being kidnapped and having their kidneys removed. Despite the widespread fear, no victims or parents have ever come forward, and Disney denies the incidents. The article draws parallels between these modern rumors and historical moral panics, such as the Blood Libel, illustrating how tales about strangers harming children have persisted throughout history.

Sceptical About the Sceptics

John Harney's article questions the nature of extreme skepticism, particularly within the UFO and fortean communities. He notes that while Magonia deals with serious subjects, there's a tendency among some writers to suppress humor, fearing it might trivialize their work. Harney suggests that Roger Sandell, in contrast, effectively used humor to expose the absurdity of certain claims without dismissing the underlying seriousness of the subject. The article implies that a balanced approach, incorporating humor and common-sense, is crucial for understanding complex phenomena and that an overly rigid skepticism can be as problematic as uncritical belief.

The Godlings Descend: UFOs and Religion

In the second part of his series, Peter Brookesmith explores the profound connections between UFO lore and religious symbolism. He demonstrates how UFOs and their occupants often mirror the attributes of deities in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The article highlights the dual nature of God as both a source of loving-kindness and ultimate evil, a complexity that is reflected in the ambiguous nature of UFO phenomena. Brookesmith points out that UFOs, like divine figures, can be unapproachable yet perform miraculous actions, and their appearance is often limited to chosen witnesses. He uses examples from Jungian psychology and various reported sightings to illustrate how UFOs can become symbols of unity and wholeness, attracting belief and investment of numinous powers, much like religious icons. The article suggests that the perceived "exotic hardware" of UFOs and the "stealth technology" allegedly provided by aliens are part of a broader narrative that aligns with religious mythologies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Magonia consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded approach to its subject matter. The editorial stance favors rigorous investigation and evidence-based analysis, particularly evident in the debunking of sensationalized organ trafficking rumors. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine phenomena and unfounded legends or propaganda. The magazine champions the use of humor and common-sense as valuable tools for understanding complex and often bizarre topics, as exemplified by the tribute to Roger Sandell. The exploration of UFOs through the lens of religious symbolism suggests an interest in the psychological and cultural underpinnings of belief systems, rather than a purely literal interpretation of sightings. The overall tone encourages thoughtful engagement with the unexplained, urging readers to be discerning and to avoid falling prey to either uncritical acceptance or dismissive skepticism.

MAGONIA 56 is an issue that delves deeply into the intersection of UFO phenomena, particularly abduction experiences, with religious and mythological themes. It also critically examines the stance and methods of skeptics who investigate paranormal claims.

The Light of the Otherworld: UFO Abductions and Religious Parallels

The issue begins by exploring the concept of 'superior beings' as perceived occupants of UFOs, noting how this idea often reflects a 19th-century notion of progress. The author then focuses on the abduction scenario, highlighting its rich religious imagery and symbolic routines. The 'beam of light' experienced by abductees is compared to biblical and Quranic accounts of divine revelation, such as the experiences of Saul of Tarsus, the shepherds at Bethlehem, and Mohamed. The article draws parallels between these events and Joseph Smith's vision, suggesting that the light of revelation serves to drive back a perceived mundane or Gnostic darkness.

It is argued that abduction experiences, like mystical encounters, often involve a sense of disembodiment and being 'wafted' to a UFO, akin to angelic or demonic journeys. The author, citing Paul Devereux, suggests that modern altered states of consciousness, which once involved encounters with spirits and ancestors in shamanic societies, now manifest as encounters with aliens and machines. This leads to the argument that death and rebirth, martyrdom and resurrection are fundamentally implicated in the abduction experience, with the mechanical imagery serving as modern metaphors for these themes.

Upon entering the UFO, the light becomes diffuse, symbolizing ubiquity. The 'seamless doors' reported by abductees are interpreted symbolically, representing the aliens' control and the one-way nature of the experience. The author notes the 'Wonderland' aspect of these encounters, where escape is a constant thought, and the internal dimensions of the craft often defy external appearance, creating a magical, manufactured environment.

Not Like Us: The Alien Archetype

The article then discusses the diverse appearances of aliens, countering the idea that they are all the same. Despite the insistence of some researchers on a monolithic alien type, the author notes that aliens appear in various forms, often humanoid or primatial, but essentially non-human. The 'grey alien' archetype, with its huge head and bizarre eyes, is analyzed as a symbol of superhuman intellect and the ability to read minds and control actions. The attenuated bodies suggest a lack of physical warmth and emotional sympathy, pointing towards frigid intellect and passionless asceticism. The absence of 'naughty bits' is linked to a concept of purity, free from original sin, a theme resonant with certain religious traditions.

Meaning in their Madness: The 'Darkside' Scenario and Religious Parallels

The issue delves into the 'Darkside' scenario, which involves claims of secret alien-government treaties, alien medical experiments, and the creation of religious figures by aliens. This scenario is linked to apocalyptic paranoia and is often justified by references to government documents and insider whispers. The author notes the convergence of ufology with militia movements and anti-semitic themes, suggesting a shared mythology of oppression and a belief in alien control over human existence.

The article draws parallels between the sado-masochistic elements in some Christian myths and the concept of alien subjugation. The idea of sacrifice and suffering for salvation is compared to the perceived need for aliens to feed on human flesh and blood for survival. The author also discusses the concept of 'chosenness' in abduction narratives, where abductees are given messages or 'wisdom' that echo religious injunctions and explanations of human destiny.

The Cult of Despair

This section characterizes the abduction phenomenon as a 'cult of despair,' where individuals feel trapped and manipulated. The messages received from aliens often involve apocalyptic warnings, moral injunctions, messianic appointments, and explanations of alien identity and purpose. These themes are seen as echoing the fundamentals of all religions, offering a means of human redemption and explaining the purpose of life.

Saucer Full of Secrets: Alien Origins and the Unknowable

The article explores how the reported origins of aliens have shifted over time, from specific planets to more exotic locations, with a recent trend towards secrecy about their home worlds. This secrecy is compared to the biblical concept of God withholding his full face from Moses, and the idea of unknowable divine names. Abductees are often told 'It doesn't matter' where the aliens come from, echoing a theme of divine inscrutability.

The author highlights the 'book of wisdom' motif, often described as blue, which is presented to abductees but then retained by the aliens. The experience of close encounters is described as revelatory, changing the priorities and way of life for many, similar to religious conversions. The feeling of being alone, misused, and manipulated is a common thread, with individuals feeling they have lost control of their lives and even their basic biological functions.

The ETH Demands a Miracle: Scientific Challenges of Alien Contact

This section addresses the scientific challenges of the Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis (ETH). It questions how UFOs can fly, given current understanding of physics, and suggests that aliens' ability to travel here implies a 'miracle.' The article references superstring theory and the concept of 'other dimensions,' but notes the immense difficulties in accessing them. It also touches upon the idea that alien appearances might be anthropomorphic because humans require them to be, to personify their own condition and preoccupations.

Sceptical About the Sceptics: Critiquing the Debunkers

John Harney's article critically examines the work of skeptics, particularly Joe Nickell and the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICOP). Harney questions the definition of 'paranormal' used by skeptics and suggests their focus is often on debunking rather than understanding. He criticizes the triviality of some cases investigated by skeptics and points out instances where interesting questions are left unanswered. The author argues that while skepticism is useful, it can become tedious when pursued as an end in itself, leading to an impression that skeptics wish to eliminate anything frivolous or not strictly rational.

Harney also critiques the portrayal of skeptics in popular entertainment, noting that films often depict them as hindrances to resolving supernatural events. He suggests that a more constructive approach for skeptics would be to focus on scientific fraud, quack medicine, and extravagant claims, rather than dismissing all paranormal phenomena.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters discuss the themes raised in the magazine. David Sivier agrees with an article on abduction phenomena, advocating for psychological explanations as a 'weapon' against the more extreme claims and suggesting that presenting abduction as an internal experience can protect children. He also offers condolences on the death of Roger Sandell.

Another letter criticizes Kevin McClure's article, finding it too apologetic towards abductionists and questioning the logic of aliens traversing the cosmos for clandestine purposes. The letter also points out the contradiction between claims of widespread abductions and a decline in UFO sighting reports. It further critiques the 'grey alien' description, questioning the deduction of humanoid intelligence based on physical characteristics.

Matthew J. Graeber expresses doubt that abduction experts are open to debate, suggesting they are driven by a 'mission for a new age space god.' He also introduces the concept of the 'Gardner Syndrome' and asks for suggestions for naming other delusions within ufology.

Christopher Allen notes the continuation of the 'Fred O. Gardner' phenomenon, where individuals use their professional status to bolster their claims.

Jenny Randles clarifies her position on abductions, stating she believes they are visionary experiences and not physical realities, and challenges Kevin McClure to prove otherwise. She emphasizes that her work presents a balanced view, favoring non-physical explanations.

Jeremy Harte comments on the evolving nature of 'Earth Mysteries' research, noting the shift from landscape definition to philosophical problems.

Book Reviews

Duncan Steel's "Rogue Asteroids and Doomsday Comets" is reviewed by John Harney, who recommends it for its discussion of impact craters, the Chicxulub impact, and its potential link to dinosaur extinction. The review also notes a speculative chapter on Stonehenge and the Pyramids, attributing their construction to meteor showers.

Colin A. Ross's "Satanic Ritual Abuse: principles of treatment" is reviewed, with the reviewer noting residual paranoia and a rhetorical willingness to concede that many SRA memories may be false, despite the book's surface reasonableness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Magonia include the deep connections between UFO abduction narratives and religious/mythological experiences, the critique of skeptical methodologies when applied to the paranormal, and the exploration of the psychological and symbolic dimensions of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor nuanced investigation that acknowledges the subjective reality of experiences while questioning literal interpretations, particularly those that are overly sensational or lack empirical support. There is a clear interest in the underlying psychological and cultural factors that shape beliefs about UFOs and the paranormal.

MAGONIA 56 is an issue of the magazine Magonia, focusing on ufology and related phenomena. It features a "Abduction Review Round-up" on the cover, highlighting books and personal accounts of UFO abductions. The issue includes reviews of various books, discussions of historical cases, and commentary on the broader landscape of ufological beliefs and research.

Book Reviews and Case Studies

Abduction Review Round-up

The section "Abduction Review Round-up" critically examines several books and accounts related to UFO abductions.

• Debbie Jordan and Kathy Mitchell's "Abducted: the story of the Intruders continues": This review discusses the personal stories of Jordan and Mitchell, noting their experiences with paranormal phenomena beyond typical abduction narratives, such as ghosts, poltergeists, and channeling. It suggests a move towards 'post-secularist ufologists' and mentions Debbie's claims of ESP powers and metal-bending abilities. The review also touches on Debbie's troubled adolescence, including psychosomatic illnesses and behavioral problems, and notes the insensitive reaction of Budd Hopkins to her situation.
• Katharina Wilson's "The Alien Jigsaw" and "The Alien Jigsaw Workbook": These books are reviewed as presenting classic 'abduction personality' symptoms in Wilson. The review points out potential non-ufological reasons for her experiences, such as post-traumatic stress from the deaths of her friend and a kitten in a fire, and abusive relationships. Her experiences with a born-again Christian and a military husband are detailed, linking her nightmares about abortion to abduction beliefs. Wilson's interpretation of her dreams as abductions staged by 'Greys' is discussed, reflecting her fears and current ufological folklore trends.

Other Book Reviews

• Karla Turner, "Taken: inside the alien-human abduction agenda": This book is described as combining post-secularism with the sexuality of Jacobs's accounts and military-UFO collaboration scenarios. The experiences it covers range from dreams and false awakenings to hypnagogic imagery and memory 'flashbacks'.
• Elsie Oakensen, "One Step Beyond; a personal UFO abduction experience": Oakensen's story is presented as similar to mediums and psychics. The review suggests that naive witnesses can be drawn into ufologists' belief systems, and that Oakensen, seeking meaning in retirement, found it in ufology, which offered attention and fame. The review notes the cultic nature of 'witness support groups' and their developing millenialist potential.
• Walter N. Webb, "Encounter at Buff Ledge: a UFO case study": This is described as a more traditional abduction story involving two witnesses. The review highlights the use of hypnosis and 'recovered memories', questioning whether correlations between accounts are due to cultural conditioning or subtle cuing. It notes the similarity of the scenario to the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind", despite the witness's denial of seeing the film.
• Jane Goldman, "The X-Files Book of the Unexplained": This book is considered a decent introduction, including various viewpoints and interviews with ufologists like Bob Rickard and Tim Good.
• Paul David Pursglove (ed.), "Zen and the Art of Close Encounter: crazy wisdom and UFOs": This collection of New Age writings on ufology is noted, with some pieces being of interest to followers of Dennis Stillings or Patrick Harpur, while others are described as requiring 'ingestion of not altogether legal substances'.
• Edward Ashpole, "The UFO phenomenon; a scientific look at the evidence for extraterrestrial contacts": This book is characterized as old-fashioned and conservative pro-ETH, promoting Tim Good and Quest. It dismisses occupant and abduction reports, suggesting ETs would not be humanoid.
• James Randi, "The Supernatural A-Z; the truth and the lies": Randi's work is described as a 'Devil's Dictionary of the occult', criticized for producing 'lazy, sub-standard hack work'. The review points out an error in the entry for the Necronomicon, attributing its invention to Lovecraft rather than an ancient Arabic text.
• John & Anne Spencer, "The Encyclopedia of the World's greatest Unsolved Mysteries": The Spencers' work is noted for covering a wide range of Fortean and paranormal topics but is criticized for being skimpy and uncritical when dealing with topics outside their personal experience.
• Jenny Randles and Peter Hough, "Encyclopedia of the Unexplained": Similar to the Spencers, this partnership is noted for covering many topics but is advised to stick to areas of personal involvement.
• David Richie, "UFO: the definitive guide to unidentified flying objects and related phenomena": Richie, an aerospace journalist with no ufology background, is seen as making an effort, but the review finds his bibliography poor and notes constant references to Father Seraphim Rose, who wrote about UFOs as a demonic phenomenon.

Historical Rumors and Social Commentary

Organ Snatchers

This section delves into historical rumors, particularly the 'organ snatchers' myth. It traces the origins of such rumors back to the 17th century, with examples like the 'Blood Carriage' in Antwerp and stories of children's blood being used to cure royalty. The review notes that these rumors, which involve children being harmed for the benefit of the powerful, have counterparts in modern abduction narratives and have appeared in various forms throughout history.

25 Years Ago

This retrospective looks back at the early days of MUFOB (Movement for UFO Beliefs) in 1971, a period of developing 'New Ufology'. The author recounts being summoned to explain his views to BUFORA and reflects on the challenges of producing UFO magazines with limited resources. It also mentions a piece by Peter Rogerson titled 'The Sun Maiden', exploring links between folklore and ufology.

More Cat Flaps

This short piece discusses a panic about 'cat-skinners' in Epsom and Ewell, where cats were reportedly being lured into vans. It mentions the National Petwatch organisation and their lobbying efforts regarding factories in the Netherlands that allegedly make clothing from cat fur. The rumor has evolved, with cats now supposedly being skinned in the West Midlands.

Dress Nonsense

This section critiques an organization called MAPIT, which is described as authoritarian. The organizer is obsessed with a dress code and has strict policies for membership, including a four-step process for dismissal. The review notes the irony of members needing to 'wear their identification badges when ever it is appropriate', linking it to the 'Citizens' Charter'.

Meet Magonia

This is an announcement for Magonia Reader Group meetings, held on the first Sunday of each month at the Railway pub in Putney.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Magonia include the critical examination of UFO abduction accounts, the exploration of folklore and its connection to modern UFO beliefs, and a skeptical yet engaged approach to the subject matter. The reviews often highlight the psychological and social factors that may contribute to abduction narratives, questioning the literal interpretation of such experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, distinguishing between sensationalism and potentially valid research, while also acknowledging the historical and cultural roots of many paranormal beliefs.