MUFOB - New series - No 14

This document is a review of the book "Worlds Beyond: the Everlasting Frontier," published in 1978 by the New Dimensions Foundation. The book is based on a Californian radio series and is presented as a work where ufologists emerge as paragons of sanity and scientific respectability, contrasting with the proponents of 'futuristic speculation' and 'space colony' ideas.

Review of "Worlds Beyond: the Everlasting Frontier"

The review highlights that the book's contributors, including GEIS, Larry, and others, present a scenario where ufologists are seen as rational figures. This is contrasted with the proponents of space colonization, such as Gerald O'Neill. The reviewer expresses a concern that these 'space colony' ideas, like the designers of tower blocks, might eventually be realized, leading to a vision of a deserted, vandalized O'Neill colony.

The review notes the involvement of notable figures such as Governor Jerry Brown of California and Timothy Leary, who is described as a prophet of LSD turned prophet of £sd. Leary's statement that "the most intelligent people alive today are on the West coast of the United States" is cited as proof that LSD causes permanent brain damage.

Compared to such statements, the ufologists in the book are presented as appearing very sane. Their contributions are described as familiar. The introduction to the book, and one chapter, are by Jacques Vallee. Vallee views the 'carnival' with amusement and detachment. In his paper, Vallee comments on how our perceptions are conditioned by our own culture. He states: "The notion that the history of man is the slow but irresistable emergence of the rational mind out of irrational dark-ness is one of the most curiously persist-ent falsehoods of intellectual life."

The reviewer suggests that this comment by Vallee should be carefully considered by other contributors to the book and by certain "ethno-historical chauvinists in the British UFO scene."

Editorial Notes and Contributions

The review includes parenthetical notes indicating contributions from 'PR'. The review itself appears to be from a publication that focuses on ufology and related topics, given the context and the mention of the "British UFO scene."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the critical examination of speculative ideas, particularly space colonization versus ufology. The editorial stance appears to favor a more grounded, rational approach, as evidenced by the reviewer's skepticism towards space colonization and the highlighting of Vallee's critical perspective on historical narratives. There is an underlying concern about the potential realization of seemingly outlandish 'futuristic' ideas.