NIVFO-Bulletin - 1984 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: NIVFO bulletin
Issue: 2/1984
Volume: 4. ARGANG
Publisher: NORSK INSTITUTT FOR VITENSKAPELIG FORSKNING OG OPPLYSNING
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0800-0360
Price: KR. 95,-

This issue of the NIVFO bulletin, dated February 1984, delves into various topics related to parapsychology, alternative beliefs, and unexplained phenomena. The cover prominently features the "STOR-PROSJEKT I HESSDALEN" (Hessdalen Project), indicating that NIVFO established a meteorological station and deployed aircraft as part of this initiative. The cover also includes images suggestive of UFOs or atmospheric anomalies.

Contents Overview

The issue's table of contents lists a diverse range of articles, including:

• Transcendental Meditation: Explored in depth, with personal testimonies and discussions on its effects.
• Pyramids and Numerology: Examining the mystical aspects of Egyptian pyramids.
• Hessdalen Project: The main feature, detailing NIVFO's meteorological efforts.
• UFO Cults and Psychology: Investigating the psychological aspects of UFO belief systems.
• The Need for Orientation Frameworks: Discussing the search for meaning and structure.
• The Warminster Mysteries: A look into a specific unexplained phenomenon.
• Crop Circle Imprints: Featuring aerial photographs of crop circles.
• Out-of-Body Experiences: Exploring this phenomenon.
• Astrology Re-evaluated by Psychologists: A critical look at astrology.
• Lack of Evidence for Alternative Medicine: Questioning the efficacy of natural medicine.
• Healthcare Demands Stricter Control: A commentary on health regulations.
• Book Reviews: Critiques of relevant literature.

Transcendental Meditation (TM)

Pages 3-8 are dedicated to an extensive exploration of Transcendental Meditation (TM), a technique introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The article features interviews with several individuals who practice TM, including:

• Mats Kollinius: A student who began meditating in 1973 and reports increased energy, improved focus, and a more active lifestyle. He notes that his grades improved and he felt more motivated to engage in other activities.
• Mayvor Jordvall: A special teacher who started meditating in 1974. She attributes her improved mood, increased harmony, and stability to TM, and found that it helped her manage high blood pressure without medication. She also benefited from a VKI (Science of Creative Intelligence) course.
• Ann Svensson: A textile artist who began TM in 1975, feeling she has changed as a person, gained a new perspective on life, and developed stronger self-esteem.
• Curt Jonsson: An economist who started meditating in 1972. He conducted a scientific study on TM's impact on business efficiency for his thesis at Stockholm University. He experienced increased energy, worked more intensely, and felt a drive for self-improvement, leading him to quit his job and pursue full-time studies. He also notes a decrease in tobacco, alcohol, and drug use among TM practitioners.
• Lennart Haak: A meditation teacher who states that TM helps people function more effectively and 'healthier' according to their circumstances, leading to a more life-affirming direction and greater engagement.

The article mentions that approximately 35,000 people had learned TM in Sweden by 1977, though the number of active practitioners is unknown. It also addresses potential criticisms, such as TM being viewed as a deviation from Christian teachings, with experts like K.L. Seshagiri Rao clarifying that the mantras used in TM are not related to Hindu deities.

Per Gillberg, another meditation teacher, highlights that many Christians practice TM and that some priests are trained TM teachers. He views TM as a complement to Christianity, enriching and strengthening the religion rather than being a religion itself. Gillberg emphasizes that TM leads to mental purity, self-realization, and a higher state of consciousness, which he claims has been scientifically verified through measurements indicating exceptional states of awareness. He mentions the possibility of achieving a 'fifth state' of consciousness, representing total self-realization and cosmic consciousness.

Intensive courses, such as the 6-month courses offered by Maharishi, aim to stabilize this 'pure consciousness' in TM meditators. These courses have reportedly led to over 100,000 experiences of higher states of consciousness, described as a permanent state of resting wakefulness, pure consciousness, or samadhi, leading to a profound understanding of life and total bliss.

The Hessdalen Project

While not detailed in the provided pages, the cover and table of contents indicate that the "STOR-PROSJEKT I HESSDALEN" was a significant focus, involving the establishment of a meteorological station and the use of aircraft by NIVFO.

UFOs and Skepticism

An article titled "UFOER: OFFENTLIGHETEN FØRT BAK LYSET" (UFOs: The Public Deceived) is mentioned, referencing a book by Kim Møller Hansen. The article suggests that ufologists might be hiding the truth about UFOs. The book is described as a 310-page work with a keyword index and black-and-white photos, recommended for those seeking to challenge their beliefs.

Pyramids and Numerology

Pages 10-11 discuss the mystique surrounding the Egyptian pyramids, particularly the Great Pyramid of Giza. The article references John Taylor's 1959 book, "The Great Pyramid: Why Was It Built? And Who Built It?" It outlines three main areas of discussion: the physics of pyramid construction, the advanced mathematics and astronomy allegedly incorporated into their design, and their occult properties or 'pyramid power.' The article notes that Per Andersen's book, discussed by SUFOI in Denmark, focuses on the mathematical aspects, while not taking a definitive stance on the physics or occult properties. It suggests that the pyramids might represent the king as a symbol of divine kingship rather than just a person or monument.

Dangers of New Religious Movements

Page 9 features a prominent article titled "Mediterte seg INN I DØDEN" (Meditated Himself Into Death), detailing the tragic story of Arne Hoff, a young man from Trondheim who committed suicide in 1979. His father, Peder Hoff, believes that Arne became ensnared by a "guru's net" through innocent meditation practices that escalated into an Eastern mystical philosophy, leading to his death at age 19. The article describes Arne's transformation from a capable student to an ascetic, living on minimal food and exhibiting signs of schizophrenia. Peder Hoff is now dedicated to warning others about the dangers of such movements.

Are Holen, an amanuensis in psychiatry and leader of ACEM (a Norwegian meditation form that diverged from Transcendental Meditation), is quoted. He distinguishes between neutral meditation techniques and philosophies that promote escapism or mysticism. Holen suggests that while meditation itself is not inherently dangerous, individuals can be led to accept certain worldviews or beliefs through suggestion from gurus. He notes that Arne Hoff's case might have been influenced by transcendental meditation, but the underlying diagnosis of schizophrenia likely had its own causes. Holen regrets that meditation as a method is being drawn into this tragic case.

Other Topics

Brief mentions include a humorous anecdote about a ghost and a skeptical piece on Scientology, which claims humans only use 10% of their mental capacity. There is also a cautionary note about naturopaths in Oslo being reported for recommending drinking purified gasoline to cure cancer, with health authorities issuing warnings against such practices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The NIVFO bulletin consistently explores topics at the fringe of conventional science and belief systems. This issue highlights the perceived benefits of practices like Transcendental Meditation, while also cautioning against the potential negative influences of cults and certain spiritual philosophies. The magazine appears to adopt a critical yet open-minded stance, presenting personal experiences and expert opinions on phenomena that challenge mainstream understanding. The inclusion of the Hessdalen Project suggests an interest in unexplained aerial phenomena and scientific investigation into the unknown. The editorial stance seems to be one of informing the public about these subjects, encouraging critical thinking, and warning against potential exploitation or harm associated with some of these belief systems.

This issue of the magazine, titled "PYRAMIDEMYSTIKKEN," delves into various phenomena often associated with mystery and the unexplained, including pyramidology, UFO sightings, and crop circles. It presents a critical and skeptical perspective, aiming to demystify these topics by examining the arguments and evidence presented.

Pyramid Mysticism and Mathematics

The lead article, "PYRAMIDEMYSTIKKEN," by Per Andersen, critiques the literature surrounding the mathematical mysteries of the pyramids. The author expresses frustration with the lack of clear arguments, the prevalence of confusion, and the poor citation practices in works defending pyramid mysticism. The article highlights how proponents often resort to rounding, introducing new units, and making unsubstantiated claims.

Pyramid Orientation

One section focuses on the orientation of the pyramids. It is stated that the sides of the pyramids are not perfectly aligned with true north, deviating by about 10 minutes. The Kheops pyramid is noted as being the closest to true north. Charroux is cited as suggesting a deviation of 4 minutes and 35 seconds, which he considers normal accuracy, but the author questions the basis for this claim by comparing it to the Paris observatory's deviation.

Speculation about continental drift explaining the deviation is dismissed, as it would only account for a small fraction of the observed difference. Some theories suggest the pyramids might be much older, with calculations implying the Kheops pyramid could be around 180,000 years old. However, the article concludes that the precise orientation, or lack thereof, does not provide a solid basis for pyramid mysticism. It is acknowledged that the Egyptians likely attempted to orient the pyramids towards true north, but the exact methods are debated, with theories involving stars or the sun, as they did not possess compasses.

Mathematical Ratios and Pi

The article examines claims linking pyramid dimensions to mathematical constants. One assertion is that the base circumference of the Kheops pyramid, divided by twice its height, yields the value of pi. While this relationship can be manipulated to produce pi, the article suggests it's not a mystical discovery but rather a consequence of how measurements are chosen and interpreted. The author notes that the Egyptians were aware of an approximate value for pi, and the method of construction described by Herodotus (where the area of a side equals the square of the height) would naturally result in a pi-like ratio.

Another claim discussed is the relationship between the Kheops pyramid's height and Earth's radius, and its circumference to Earth's circumference. These claims are presented as examples of how numerical data can be manipulated to create seemingly significant correlations, often by comparing different types of measurements or units.

Pyramid Slope and Age

The article addresses the claimed slope of the Kheops pyramid (52 degrees), stating the actual angle is 51 degrees and 52 minutes. It dismisses theories linking this slope to Earth's tilt and latitude at the time of construction as speculative and based on arbitrary assumptions.

Conclusion on Pyramid Mysticism

The overall conclusion is that while ancient Egyptian society was stable and possessed a developed understanding of mathematics, there is no evidence to suggest that pyramid mathematics contains hidden, advanced, or mystical knowledge beyond what would be expected for their civilization. The article argues that many claims are based on misinterpretations, selective use of data, and numerical manipulation.

Hessdalen Expedition and UFOs

A separate section reports on a NIVFO expedition to Hessdalen, Norway, in 1984. The goal was to investigate plasma and inversion theories related to UFO phenomena observed in the area. A meteorological station was set up, and measurements were taken, including temperature and wind speed at various altitudes. During the expedition, UFOs were observed, and the weather conditions were found to align with the theories being investigated. Data collected from the expedition was to be further analyzed.

UFO Cultism and Psychology

K. Stenødegård's article, "UFO-kultus og psykologi" (UFO Cultism and Psychology), explores the psychological underpinnings of the UFO phenomenon. The author argues that UFO beliefs often contain elements of religiosity, mystery-worship, and a desire for escapism. While acknowledging that some organizations genuinely seek to understand UFOs, the article focuses on groups that present themselves as scientific but operate with less stringent restrictions. These groups are accused of one-sidedness, dogmatism, and manipulating information by selectively highlighting or omitting facts.

The article criticizes the tendency of many "ufologists" to avoid engaging with counterarguments or evidence that contradicts their beliefs. It highlights the ease with which claims of "immense evidence" for UFOs are made, but the difficulty in substantiating these claims with verifiable examples. The author suggests that many UFO organizations may knowingly or unknowingly publish distorted information.

Beyond UFO Cultism

The article broadens the scope beyond UFOs to discuss the general trend of mystery-worship in contemporary society, citing examples like biomagnetism, cryptozoology, parapsychology, and astrology. It posits that the appeal of these subjects stems from psychological needs rather than purely scientific inquiry.

Psychological Reflections

From a psychoanalytic perspective, the article suggests that UFOlogy and other pseudosciences often serve as expressions of psychological needs. It emphasizes that a desire for a framework to understand existence is fundamental, and this can manifest as adherence to strong leaders or belief systems, even if they are based on illusions. The article contrasts this with the pursuit of objective reality and consciousness, which it views as a process of liberation from illusions.

The Need for Orientation Frameworks

Another article discusses the human need for "orientation frameworks" – systems of belief that provide meaning and structure to life. It suggests that humans, like animals, often seek strong leaders or ideologies to fulfill this need, especially when they have not reached a higher stage of evolutionary development. The article argues that while humans have an innate drive to understand reality, this pursuit can be distorted by illusions and anxieties. True consciousness, it posits, involves shedding illusions and engaging with reality directly. The article concludes that the historical development of human consciousness has been a process of increasing awareness and the overcoming of irrationality, leading towards a more objective understanding of the world.

Crop Circles

A brief report describes the discovery of crop circles in Wiltshire, England, by farmer Stan Pointer. Five circular patterns were found pressed into the corn, with no apparent tracks leading to them. The article mentions that the area is known for unexplained phenomena and that various theories, including whirlwinds and pranksters, have been proposed to explain the circles. The author suggests that the whirlwinds theory or even deliberate actions by 'pranksters' using a chain could explain the formations, questioning the mystical interpretations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently adopts a skeptical and critical stance towards claims of hidden knowledge or supernatural explanations for phenomena like pyramid construction and UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be that many of these beliefs stem from psychological needs, a desire for mystery, and a tendency towards numerical manipulation rather than from verifiable evidence or advanced, esoteric knowledge. The magazine promotes a rational, scientific approach to understanding the world, emphasizing critical thinking and the demystification of complex subjects. The articles encourage readers to question extraordinary claims and to look for logical explanations grounded in known scientific and historical understanding.

Title: UFO-NYTT
Issue: 1/1984
Date: January 1, 1984
Publisher: NIVFO
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Cover Headline: Avtrykket i åkeren (The imprint in the field)

This issue of UFO-NYTT delves into various unexplained phenomena, skepticism, and alternative approaches to health and understanding the universe.

Referanseramme and Meaning

The opening article discusses the human need for a frame of reference and an object of devotion, exploring various systems from animism and totemism to Buddhism and monotheistic religions. It posits that all these systems, regardless of content, fulfill a fundamental human need for meaning and purpose. The article references Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's book "Fenomenet menneske" (The Phenomenon of Man), published in 1939, highlighting his optimistic view of humanity's progress despite challenges, and notes that his works were initially banned by the Catholic Church.

The Warminster Mysteries

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Warminster Mysteries." It highlights how studying the methods of ufologists can be as revealing as studying UFO literature itself. Physicist David I Simpson conducted experiments to test the critical skills of UFO enthusiasts by staging a "hoax." He set up a purplish spotlight and a fake "magnetic field detector" alarm during a UFO observation tour in Warminster in March 1970. Photographs were taken, and despite inconsistencies, UFO experts, including the editor of "Flying Saucer Review," declared the photos authentic. Ufologist Dr. Pierre Guerin initially suggested it might be a forgery, and calculations estimated the object to be ten meters long and eighteen meters in diameter. Simpson later revealed the experiment, stating that the "investigative incompetence" observed was typical, and that typical ufologists are unlikely to discover genuine evidence.

The issue also features a photograph of a crop circle in Wiltshire, England, noting that it, along with UFO sightings and a reported landing by a "flying saucer" with silver-suited beings, attracted significant attention. A reader's letter to "Adresseavisen" questioned the lack of official reaction in Norway, with NIUFO promising an investigation, though they suspected it might be a hoax.

Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs)

Another section explores "UT-AV-KROPPEN-OPPLEVELSER" (Out-of-Body Experiences) as a psychological phenomenon. It discusses early experiments with hypnotized mediums in the early 20th century, where subjects could reportedly perceive distant events. However, the reliability of these findings is questioned due to potential suggestion from experimenters. Later experiments, like those by Tart with Robert Monroe and Miss Z, are detailed. Miss Z reportedly identified a number placed in an adjacent room while seemingly in an OBE, but the results were not entirely conclusive, with suggestions of hidden mirrors or unconscious observation.

Further experiments by Osis with Alex Tanous are discussed, where Tanous participated in tests involving an optical device to distinguish between localized and general ESP during OBEs. Osis claimed results supported the "exosomatic hypothesis" (that something actually left the body), but the analysis was considered marginal. Later Osis experiments (1980) involving strain gauges suggested activity near the test object, but the overall results were close to chance, raising doubts about Osis's enthusiastic conclusions.

Experiments involving Palmer and Lieberman aimed to induce OBEs in volunteers, but while subjects reported OBEs, they did not achieve credible ESP scores, leading to further questions about what constitutes a genuine OBE.

Astrology Re-examined by Psychologists

The magazine features an article titled "Astrologien revideres av psykologer" (Astrology is revised by psychologists), discussing the work of Professor Hans J. Eysenck and D.K.B. Nias. Their book "Astrologi, Science or Superstition" (later translated as "Astrologien. En revisjon i lyset af moderne videnskab.") revisits astrology. While acknowledging past "stupidities" in the name of astrology, the authors suggest that serious practitioners are honest and intelligent. They believe there is a need for further research into the unknown, but caution against fear of ridicule. The article notes that while physics and astronomy have universal laws, astrologers lack a unified rule set, with various traditions existing. It also touches upon the idea of "kosmobiologi," the study of life in relation to celestial bodies like the sun and planets, and mentions the potential influence of solar flares.

Natural Remedies and Health Control

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the regulation and effectiveness of natural remedies and alternative healing methods. Jørgen Kvist from the Danish health authorities reports a marked increase in violations related to the trade of "natural preparations" sold in health food stores. He notes that while there is no direct control over non-prescription natural medicines, the health authorities intervene when aware of violations, often through private complaints. The article highlights a case in Århus where a wholesaler, "Drogeriet," was prosecuted for violating drug laws by selling 15 "non-approved" products and advertising their "medicinal effects." Despite warnings, the wholesaler continued, claiming ignorance of the law. The health authorities suggest that the growing market for these products is driven by trends, with different types of remedies gaining popularity each year.

The issue also discusses the findings of a Danish committee that investigated natural preparations and non-authorized healing methods. The committee concluded that scientific trials had not demonstrated significant effects for most natural medicines, including those for leukemia and lung cancer. However, they did find some evidence of pain-relieving effects from acupuncture and soneterapi, though not as strong or long-lasting as other treatments. The committee expressed concern about how the press, particularly weekly magazines, report "miraculous" cures, suggesting that the actual medical history of patients is often unclear, and potential benefits might be due to concurrent conventional medical treatment.

UFO Café

The "UFO Café" section reports on an APRO-Bulletin article about a "new twist" in UFO abduction cases: UFOs disguised as hamburger kiosks. It recounts a story from 1953 or 1954 where a family encountered a circular, brightly lit "cafe" on U.S. Highway 97 in Oregon. The car stopped, and upon entering, they found blonde beings in silver uniforms. The food was apparently tasteless. After paying, the car started on its own, and the cafe could not be found again. Notably, the family's money was the same amount as before entering the cafe. The family was convinced it was a UFO, and APRO commented that much research was needed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena, parapsychology, and alternative medicine. While presenting claims and anecdotal evidence, it emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation, critical analysis, and skepticism. The articles often highlight the challenges in verifying such phenomena, pointing out methodological flaws in experiments and the potential for self-deception or hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging further research while cautioning against unsubstantiated claims and promoting a rational approach to understanding unexplained events. The recurring themes include the scientific investigation of paranormal claims, the psychological aspects of belief, and the need for regulation in areas like alternative medicine.

This issue of the magazine, identified by the issue number "313" and featuring the headline "Adamski igjen," delves into the controversial figure of George Adamski and the broader topic of UFO skepticism. Published by Ceti Publications in England, the content is primarily in Norwegian, with a focus on analyzing UFO claims from a critical perspective.

George Adamski: The Untold Story

The article begins by introducing George Adamski as a well-known "contactee" who gained international fame for his accounts of interactions with extraterrestrials from planets within our solar system. It recounts his alleged encounter in the Californian desert in November 1952 with a being named Orthon from Venus. Adamski claimed Orthon communicated via gestures, telepathy, and drawings in the sand. He further described being taken aboard "motherships" and shown the far side of the Moon, which he depicted as having lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, unlike the side facing Earth due to tidal locking.

Adamski's narrative included descriptions of first-class hospitality aboard these ships, with encounters with Venusian women and a "wise old man of the universe" from Saturn. He spoke of journeys to Venus and Saturn, where the primary topic of discussion was the "destiny of Earth," portrayed as a backward planet not yet ready for inclusion in a "cosmic brotherhood."

The article notes that Adamski's contactees often chose individuals who found it difficult to be taken seriously. It also points out that while Adamski described various alien beings, he suggested that "Ufonauts" were essentially human-like and not the strange creatures often imagined.

Skepticism and Adamski's Legacy

The text then shifts to a more critical perspective, noting that even devoted UFO fans found it increasingly difficult to maintain their belief in Adamski's stories. Following Adamski's death, several concrete hoaxes and fraudulent elements of his claims came to light. However, his followers reportedly continue to believe him, with some even claiming he has reincarnated and is still active.

Ceti Publications in England is mentioned as attempting to revive this old UFO lore from the 1950s, presenting it as new information through the works of its authors. The review of a book from Ceti Publications claims that new revelations about Adamski have emerged, presented for the first time through well-documented works. However, the reviewer states they could not find this documentation within the book's approximately 240 pages and 50 photographs, leaving it up to the reader to decide if the £6.95 price is worth searching for.

The article speculates that Adamski might have genuinely believed his own stories, or perhaps was the victim of an elaborate hoax or psychological factors. However, the available information suggests a clear case of deception.

Review of Philip Klass's "UFOs: The Public Deceived"

The issue includes a review of Philip Klass's book, "UFOs: The Public Deceived," published by Prometheus Books in 1983. This follows Robert Sheaffer's earlier skeptical book, "The UFO Verdict." Klass, a former editor of "Aviation Week and Space Technology," is presented as a meticulous researcher who investigates UFO cases thoroughly.

The review highlights that Klass is unable to find alternative explanations for only one case: the "UFO attack" on Sheriff Val Johnson, which was also covered in the Danish magazine UFO-NYT. Klass's analysis of this incident suggests it is highly improbable and likely a fabrication. He describes the alleged events, including the aliens' careful manipulation of Johnson's car and personal items like his watch and glasses, and a supposed ultraviolet light treatment of his eyes.

Klass's book covers numerous UFO incidents and famous cases, including the declassification of CIA UFO documents, sightings over military installations and nuclear power plants, the Teheran case (1976), Delphos (1971), the Coyne helicopter incident (1973), Travis Walton's abduction (1975), and the New Zealand UFO film (1978).

Klass's research is described as digging deep into every case, uncovering details that others have missed. His thoroughness is compared to that of a criminal investigator, though it can sometimes be lengthy. His conclusion in most cases is that the event was either a hoax or a misinterpretation of a known phenomenon.

The review specifically mentions Klass's detailed account of the Travis Walton case, which he presents as a well-orchestrated hoax, not least by Walton's employer, Mike Rogers. This case was also covered in SUFCI's report "BORTFØRT."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine clearly adopts a skeptical stance towards UFO claims, particularly those involving "contactees" like George Adamski. The review of Philip Klass's book serves as a central piece, reinforcing the idea that UFO phenomena are often the result of deception, misinterpretation, or psychological factors. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous, evidence-based investigation and is critical of unsubstantiated or sensationalized accounts of UFO encounters. The recurring theme is the debunking of UFO myths and the promotion of a rational, scientific approach to unexplained aerial phenomena.