Merseyside UFO Bulletin - Vol 4 No 5 - 1971

Magazine Overview

Title: Merseyside UFO Bulletin
Issue: 4:5
Volume: 4
Date: December 1971
Editors: John Harney and John Rimmer
Publisher: Merseyside UFO Studies
Country: United Kingdom
Original Language: English

This issue of the Merseyside UFO Bulletin features a significant critique of what the author terms 'the new ufology,' focusing on the works of prominent ufologists John Keel and Jacques Vallee. The editorial section, titled 'The State of the Art,' sets a tone of insistence on logical and objective study of the subject, contrasting with what is perceived as a trend towards irrationality and speculation among some enthusiasts.

"The New Ufology" - A Critique by Alan W. Sharp

The main article by Alan W. Sharp delves into the methodologies and conclusions of ufologists like John Keel and Jacques Vallee. Sharp begins by addressing a previous article that cast doubt on the value of Keel's book 'Operation Trojan Horse.' He states his intention to discuss Vallee's viewpoint, considering a background in scientific discipline advantageous for assessing UFO phenomena.

Terminology and Classification

A significant challenge in ufology, according to Sharp, is the lack of an adequate definition for 'UFO.' He notes that neither Keel nor Vallee provides a clear definition, which he argues frees them from rigorous usage but disadvantages their readers. Sharp proposes his own definitions:

1. UFO: Anything observed or apparently perceived in the sky that the observer cannot identify at the time, or anything observed on the ground or sea that the observer considers to have an aerial connotation and cannot identify.
2. Sighting: The actual making of a UFO observation, which can include radar sightings.
3. UFO Report: A record of information concerning a sighting.
4. Ufology: The subject dealing with UFO sightings and reports.
5. UFO Report Categories: Natural objects and events, artificial objects and events, and imaginary objects and events.

Sharp lists examples for each category, such as stars and birds (natural), balloons and rockets (artificial), and hallucinations and dreams (imaginary). He asserts that genuinely untoward items concern possible visitors from space and their craft, which is what most laypeople refer to as UFOs.

He then analyzes the definitions provided by others. Condon's definition is seen as restrictive, implying any artifact in the sky is a UFO. Vallee's attempt at a definition is criticized as non-committal and evasive, defining UFO manifestations by properties that are unusual to the witness, rather than providing a strict definition of the object itself. Sharp points out Vallee's contradiction when he dismisses reports that are later identified, such as a sphere identified as a balloon or a 'strange light' as an artificial satellite, stating such reports have no place in UFO study.

Pseudo-statistics

Sharp criticizes Keel and Vallee for their lack of a UFO definition, leading to illogical statements. He highlights Keel's assertion that any acceptable theory must explain all data, favoring the 'paraphysical hypothesis' over the 'extraterrestrial hypothesis.' Sharp dismisses Keel's claims about 'metal spheres, space grass, pure magnesium, ubiquitous slag' as not fitting the 'paraphysical' category and notes that many UFO reports are based on misidentified natural phenomena. He argues that Keel's statements are nonsensical and that his verbal juggling damages his case.

He then scrutinizes Keel's statistical claims, particularly from 'Operation Trojan Horse.' Keel claims to have received over 10,000 clippings and reports in 1966, compared to the Air Force's 1,060 reports. Sharp points out this is a meaningless comparison as Keel includes 'clippings' and 'reports,' while the Air Force figure is only 'reports.' Keel's method of sorting and discarding reports, focusing only on 'Type I sightings' (low-level objects observed by reliable witnesses), is questioned for its lack of statistical rigor and potential to bias results.

Sharp argues that the new ufologists are in no position to criticize official investigations like the Condon team, citing Vallee's derision of the Condon Report. He notes that Vallee's own work, 'Passport to Magonia,' abandons scientific impartiality.

Misinformation

Sharp examines specific cases to illustrate misinformation. He discusses Vallee's reference to a 1290 observation at Byland Abbey, Yorkshire, as a 'classical' case of a silvery disc. However, investigation revealed it to be a hoax perpetrated by schoolboys. Sharp criticizes Vallee's use of 'classical' to confer spurious sanctity on disreputable reports.

He also critiques Keel's interpretation of meteors and comets. Keel suggests that meteors follow predictable patterns and timetables, implying an 'intelligent plan.' Sharp counters that meteors are not all the same type and that while 'shower' meteors are predictable, attributing this to an intelligent plan is 'absolute and unmitigated rubbish.' He defends astronomers' work in studying meteors, refuting Keel's claim that they are least interested.

Regarding metal spheres, Sharp notes Keel's mention of alleged mysterious objects found globally. Sharp, citing Dr. R. Craig, explains that these are often radar calibration targets made of aluminum, manufactured for scientific laboratories and deployed from aircraft. He suggests Keel is providing misleading information by linking them to ancient 'stone pillars.'

Sharp also addresses Keel's comments on a 1779 sighting described as a 'strange meteor' that left a trail visible for an hour. Sharp explains this was likely a bolide or fireball, and that trails from such events, or even aircraft, can remain visible for extended periods, especially at sunset. He criticizes Keel's imprecise use of the term 'meteor' and his tendency to sensationalize natural phenomena.

Warminster and Arthur Shuttlewood

Sharp then turns to his personal investigations, focusing on Mr. Arthur Shuttlewood, a UFO personality associated with Warminster. Shuttlewood is described as a convert to 'new ufology,' whose work is characterized by gullibility, wishful thinking, and ignorance. Sharp notes that Shuttlewood has generated a large collection of 'spurious sightings.' He recounts personal experiences where Shuttlewood mistook lightning flashes for UFOs and Arcturus (a star) for a UFO, requiring considerable effort to convince him of the true nature of these phenomena. Sharp also mentions Shuttlewood's subsequent meeting with a 'blue-lipped "Aenstrian"' as a traumatic experience.

He questions Keel's mention of Shuttlewood, particularly his description of him as editor of the 'Warminster Journal.' Sharp doubts Keel's claim that Shuttlewood had never heard of Virgil's Aeneid and is skeptical of the need to invoke 'elementals' or 'ultraterrestrials' to explain the Warminster sightings or strange smells.

Fairies, Fairy Rings, Folklore, Fatui, Fungi and Fantasy

Sharp critiques Vallee's pursuit of the 'fairy ring' phenomenon, suggesting Vallee believes they have a supernatural origin. Vallee's ridicule of Erasmus Darwin and modern physics in this context is seen as unscientific. Sharp clarifies that 'fairy rings' are caused by the radial growth of fungal mycelium, a fact he believes Vallee deliberately omits. He lists several species of ground fungus that create these rings, including edible ones.

He dismisses the idea of fairies or 'little people' associated with these rings, noting that while natural creatures like owls, bats, and foxes were present at night, no fairies were seen. He suggests that phenomena like 'ignes fatui' (will-o'-the-wisps) could explain the eerie effects attributed to supernatural beings, noting that these are caused by the combustion of escaping gases from rotting vegetation or atmospheric electricity.

Sharp argues that Keel is correct to draw attention to similarities between UFO sightings and alleged supernatural phenomena, but he misses the point. The common origin is not that UFOs are supernatural, but that both UFOs and supernatural manifestations can stem from misidentified natural or artificial phenomena, hallucinations, or optical defects.

Other Supernatural Entities

Sharp criticizes Keel and Vallee for expecting readers to accept far-fetched explanations for UFOs, comparing it to expecting a railwayman to believe a sprite interfered with train controls. He analyzes Vallee's account of a 1620 incident at Quimper-Corentin Cathedral, where a 'green demon' was seen during an explosion. Sharp suggests this was likely due to the flame test in chemistry, where copper (used in the cathedral roof) imparts a green color. He dismisses the authorities' actions (throwing manure and using blessed water) as part of a narrative to support the idea of a 'Secret Commonwealth.'

He concludes that the efforts of Keel and Vallee to promote belief in hobgoblins and hocus-pocus should make readers wary of reports of alleged supernatural entities. He draws a parallel to past beliefs in mermaids and sirens, which had natural explanations.

Regarding the 'little people,' Sharp suggests they might originate from a genuine sub-species of homo sapiens, but finds this unlikely. He references M.H. Day's 'Fossil Man,' which discusses the sudden disappearance of Neanderthalers and the potential origins of Cro-Magnon people, suggesting that such discussions are more grounded than supernatural explanations for UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of contemporary ufology, particularly the approaches of John Keel and Jacques Vallee. The editorial stance, as articulated by Alan W. Sharp, is one of rigorous scientific inquiry, emphasizing the need for clear definitions, objective analysis, and the consideration of natural explanations for phenomena often labeled as UFOs. The bulletin actively debunks sensationalist claims and highlights instances of misinformation and flawed logic within the UFO community, advocating for a more grounded and evidence-based approach to the subject. The issue also touches upon the historical context of folklore and its influence on UFO interpretations.

MUFOB 4, Volume 4, Number 5, published by Merseyside UFO Bulletin, is an issue dedicated to critically examining ufological claims. The publication, edited by John Harney, with Associate Editor John A. Rimmer and Science Editor Alan W. Sharp, presents a skeptical perspective on the 'new ufology' movement.

Human Evolution and Early Civilizations

The issue begins by discussing human evolution, contrasting Cro-Magnon man with Neanderthalers and touching upon the Neolithic period and the dawn of civilization in Egypt. It notes that both Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon men had large brain capacities, but Homo sapiens neanderthalensis had pronounced brow ridges and a receding chin, appearing more bestial. The possibility of Neanderthal survival into recent times is considered remote, though pygmies might have been more widespread. Both groups developed tool-making, fire use, and ritualistic burial practices.

The text dismisses the idea of ephemeral quasi-human beings or spacemen ancestors, citing a lack of archaeological or palaeontological evidence. It addresses the confusion surrounding 'little people' like elves and fairies, suggesting that ignes fatui and black, hairy creatures might have natural explanations. Descriptions of these creatures are compared to bats and owls, implying that rational explanations are often overlooked by new ufologists.

Archaeology and the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH)

The article critiques the uncritical use of archaeological evidence by ufologists to support the ETH. Jacques Vallee's interpretation of a Maya Palenque sarcophagus, suggesting a man at the controls of machinery resembling a space capsule, is presented. Similarly, Vallee's comments on Japanese Dogu statues, which bear resemblance to pressure suits, are discussed. The author questions why 'supernatural beings' would use modern-looking space suits.

Reports of 'mysterious sources of light' in Japan are attributed to 'ignes fatui' or atmospheric phenomena. The issue also examines John Keel's remarks on 'fireballs and thunderbolts' from Biblical times, and Professor Agrest's theory that ancient Baalbek was a launching platform for spaceships, based on tektites and fused crystals. The author refutes this, stating tektites are not byproducts of atomic explosions and their ages are incompatible with the Baalbek platform's age.

Visions and Hallucinations

The article then delves into 'visions,' or hallucinatory experiences, as reported in ufological contexts. The Fatima 'miracle' is analyzed, detailing the alleged experiences of three children in Portugal. The author suggests these sightings were likely peculiar optical phenomena interpreted by children with lively imaginations, influenced by the eldest, Lucia. Discrepancies in witness testimonies and the lack of objective evidence are highlighted. The description of a 'luminous figure' seen at Fatima is questioned, with the author suggesting it was likely the sun, observed under unusual atmospheric conditions and amplified by collective expectation.

Contact Cases and 'Entities'

The issue explores various 'contact cases' involving alleged meetings between humans and quasi-human entities. The Villas Boas case is discussed, noting inconsistencies in Antonio's accounts and questioning the space female's refusal of intercourse. The author dismisses stories of impregnation by elementals, spacemen, or deities as biological nonsense, asserting that human pregnancy results from human sperm.

Several other cases are presented, including an alleged UFO landing near Alencon, France, in 1790, where a 'person' emerged from a globe-like object and fled. This is dismissed as a possible encounter with an intrepid balloonist.

Critique of John Keel and 'Paraphysical Hypothesis'

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a critique of John Keel's work, particularly 'Operation Trojan Horse.' The author expresses a very poor impression of Keel, citing his claims of mysterious phone calls, encounters with 'black cadillacs,' and communication with 'entities' via telephone. Keel's assertion that UFO phenomena are caused by 'ultraterrestrials' from another space-time continuum is challenged, with the author suggesting it's an overworked concept used to propagate unsupported ideas.

Keel's belief in 'illusion-prone spirits' responsible for UFO appearances is dismissed as nonsense. The author argues that Keel's 'paraphysical hypothesis,' suggesting an invisible replica of Earth, is a grand construction of imagination and a load of nonsense. The issue contends that Keel's work is characterized by illusion, hallucination, and unreality, and that his ideas are a return to the dark ages of superstition.

Science vs. New Ufology

The article contrasts the new ufology with science, stating that the former is antipathetic to science. The 'evidence' presented by new ufologists is described as confused and their tenets vague, making assessment difficult. The author concludes that the new ufology is an undesirable throwback to discredited concepts.

Summary and Conclusions

The author examines cases presented by Keel and Vallee to support their contention that UFO sightings lie outside nature. The conclusion is that the 'new ufologists' have failed to supply proof, their accounts are unreliable, and their reasoning faulty. The issue argues that Vallee's 'Passport to Magonia' shows a decline in standards, offering unbridled speculation based on flimsy evidence. The author's overall conclusion is that the new ufology is not a scientific endeavor and its conclusions are unreasonable, illogical, and absurd.

Glossary of Important Terms

The issue includes a glossary defining terms such as Bolide, Demon, Demonology, Evolution, Evolve, Fairy, Fairyland, Fairy Ring, Faith, Hallucination, Illusion, Illusionist, Incubus, Meteor, Meteorite, Meteoroid, Palaeontology, Para-, Paraphysical, Religion, Spirit, Spiritual, Succubus, Super-, Supernatural, and Transmogrify.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is a strong skepticism towards the claims of 'new ufologists,' particularly John Keel and Jacques Vallee. The editorial stance is that most alleged UFO phenomena and supernatural encounters have rational, natural explanations rooted in misidentification, psychological factors, or atmospheric conditions. The publication advocates for a scientific, evidence-based approach, contrasting it with what it perceives as the superstitious and irrational nature of much ufological literature. The issue emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and dismisses theories lacking empirical support. The overall tone is critical and analytical, aiming to debunk sensationalist claims and promote a more grounded understanding of unexplained phenomena.