Magonia Supplement - No 03 - 1998 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of MAGONIA ETH Bulletin, dated May 1998, is primarily an editorial piece that critically examines the phenomenon of UFO abductions and the researchers involved. The editor expresses skepticism about the evidence supporting the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) for UFO reports, suggesting that proponents are 'scraping around' for material and molding evidence to fit their beliefs.

Editorial: Evidence to support the ETH is so thin on the ground...

The editorial section highlights the perceived lack of substantial physical evidence for the ETH, particularly in the USA where it is considered the most sensible hypothesis by many. The editor notes that the absence of physical evidence does not deter 'ETHers,' who can allegedly manipulate official documentation and witness statements to support their views.

Off the Wall, Through the Wall and Up the Wall: The Abduction Researchers

This section delves into the work of abduction researchers, primarily David Jacobs and Budd Hopkins. The author criticizes the reliance on 'paranormal' theories, stating that they explain nothing and represent intellectual laziness. However, some researchers, like David Jacobs, are described as 'nuts-and-bolts' men who believe in physically real aliens. Jacobs's theory posits that aliens are breeding human-alien hybrids to take over the world.

The article discusses the 'standard' version of the abduction experience as presented by Jacobs and Hopkins, emphasizing their insistence that these are objectively real events involving physically real creatures. A key point of contention is the ability of these physical beings to pass through walls, which the author contrasts with the physics of dreams and waking reality.

Experiments with Video Cameras

To address skepticism, abduction researchers have attempted to capture evidence using video cameras. The case of abductee Melissa Bucknell is presented, where a video camera was set up in her bedroom. However, abductions reportedly only occurred when the tape ran out or when she slept elsewhere, not within the camera's view. Similar experiments by Christopher Kenworthy and his team in Britain also failed to yield evidence, with subjects' tapes showing them in bed all the time, although experimenters were observed leaving and returning to the bedroom during the times of alleged abductions.

The author concludes that these experiments provide material for psychologists but do not prove anything about aliens, and that the failure to obtain physical evidence leaves researchers like Jacobs unfazed.

Competent Hypnotists and Secrecy

David Jacobs believes that a major problem is that abduction stories are either false or distorted, and proposes using competent hypnotists to uncover the truth. He asserts his own competence as a hypnotist, despite acknowledging that his academic colleagues view his work with skepticism, suggesting his intellectual abilities may be impaired.

The article also touches upon the necessity of secrecy for the aliens' project to proceed smoothly. This secrecy implies a lack of physical evidence or manifestations that would convince skeptics. The author questions how aliens could achieve such secrecy, including making their craft invisible to radar and optically, and controlling people's awareness, yet have become a prominent part of popular culture.

Greys as Abduction Experts

The text suggests that 'Greys' have taken over the abduction business because previous extraterrestrial types were less adept, particularly at passing through walls. An incident from early 1965 in Argentina is recounted, where five nearly 2-meter-tall 'Martians' with single eyes attempted to abduct a man but were repelled by villagers.

How to Avoid Being Abducted

Methods proposed by Jacobs to deter Greys have been unsuccessful. The article humorously suggests drawing parallels with old methods used to protect against fairies, such as making the sign of the cross, praying, using holy water, specific herbs, and even iron horseshoes. It concludes by questioning if Greys are simply modern-day fairies.

Lost in the Forest: Mike Rogers and His Logging Contract

This section, presented as a letter from Philip Klass and a response from the editor, scrutinizes the alleged UFO incident involving logger Mike Rogers in November 1975. Klass questions the plausibility of the incident, suggesting it might have been a hoax to gain a contract extension with the US Forest Service and avoid a 10% price cut, or to win a prize from the National Enquirer.

Klass poses several questions: Why did Rogers not request an extension before the incident? What did Rogers hope the Forest Service would do? Why did Rogers and his crew work for other contractors, neglecting his own profitable contract? And if the incident was an 'Act-of-God,' why did Forest Service officials not offer an extension?

The editor responds by focusing on motives and methods, questioning why a hoax would not have been exposed years ago. The involvement of other loggers, Walton's family, and the police is considered, along with the legal implications of wasting police time. The editor also notes logger Ken Peterson's refusal to be portrayed in a film about the incident, questioning his motives if he knew it was a hoax and how the hoax could be sustained against intensive questioning.

Real UFOs

A brief report describes two mysterious objects with bright lights and a humming noise seen traveling between Manchester and Leeds on February 2, 1998. The sighting is considered credible due to numerous independent witnesses and video recordings. Attempts to identify the objects have been unsuccessful. Andy Roberts suggests that the craft were intentionally flown over populated areas with lights on to monitor public opinion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is skepticism towards extraordinary claims, particularly concerning UFO abductions. The editorial stance is critical of researchers who lack rigorous scientific evidence and rely on anecdotal accounts or unproven hypotheses. The bulletin advocates for a scientific approach that focuses on 'How?' rather than 'Why?' when investigating alleged phenomena, and questions the motives behind potential hoaxes. The comparison of Greys to fairies suggests a view that abduction phenomena may be rooted in folklore and psychological factors rather than literal extraterrestrial encounters. The issue champions critical thinking and the demand for verifiable evidence in the study of UFOs.