NIVFO-Bulletin - 1987 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: NIVFO bulletin
Issue: 3-87
Volume: 7. Årgang
Date: June 24, 1987 (cover date)
Publisher: NORSK INSTITUTT FOR VITENSKAPELIG FORSKNING OG OPPLYSNING (NIVFO)
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0800-0360
Price: KR. 95,-

This issue of the NIVFO bulletin, published by the Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Enlightenment, marks the 40th anniversary of the 'birth' of UFO phenomena and UFOlogy. The magazine takes a critical stance, aiming to examine the current state of UFO research, its underlying criteria, and its historical development.

The Ufological Foundation: Considerations on the Jubilee Year of UFOlogy

The lead article, "DET UFOLOGISKE FUNDAMENT" (The Ufological Foundation), reflects on the 40 years since the emergence of UFO phenomena and the subsequent development of UFOlogy. It poses questions about the progress made in research and speculation, and critically assesses the criteria used by ufologists.

The article begins by acknowledging the diverse nature of the UFO movement, ranging from cult-like groups to those attempting scientific research. It notes a spectrum from those who believe in contact with extraterrestrials or beings from other dimensions to those who speculate about intelligent light spheres, civilizations in the ocean depths, or subterranean beings, and even paranormal UFOs. A contrasting group, termed 'skeptics,' is also mentioned, who question the foundations of UFOlogy.

A Real But Unknown Phenomenon

The core assertion of UFOlogy, as presented, is that UFO phenomena exist and are entirely unknown. To support this, ufologists employ several criteria:

1. Ubiquitous Reports: UFO sightings are reported globally from 1947 to the present.
2. Credible Witnesses: Observers include reliable individuals like police officers, pilots, and air traffic controllers.
3. Radar Confirmation: UFOs have been detected on radar.
4. Unexplained Residue: While many cases are explained, a 'hard core' of unexplained cases remains.
5. Government Secrecy: Governments allegedly conceal the existence of UFOs to prevent public panic, with agencies like the CIA playing a key role in maintaining secrecy and misleading the public.

Commentary on These Claims

The article systematically debunks these claims:

1. Case Resolution: While UFO reports exist, the vast majority have been explained. In other cases, conclusions could not be drawn due to insufficient evidence.
2. Witness Reliability: The credibility of witnesses has often diminished over time, with examples of pilots, controllers, and police misinterpreting known phenomena.
3. Radar Cases: Radar sightings are often unreliable, with numerous sources of error. Recent research suggests radar cases are dubious, and their frequency decreased proportionally with improvements in radar technology.
4. The 'Hard Core': The 'hard core' of unexplained cases is not constant. As cases are resolved, new ones are added, creating a shifting and fictitious core.
5. Government Documents: The article states that US Air Force and CIA documents have been released, containing no evidence of UFOs. Claims of secrecy are not evident.
6. Scientific Acceptance: The article counters the claim that scientists are ignorant of UFO material. It suggests that thorough study often leads to skepticism, not belief, and that even prominent figures in the US may be skeptical but unwilling to admit it.
7. The Condon Report: The article touches upon the Condon Report, suggesting that the project itself was a victim of a conspiracy by UFO proponents (like James E. McDonald) aiming to discredit it if results were negative.
8. Ufologist Bias: The article asserts that ufologists are often biased and not truly open-minded, despite their claims of objectivity. They tend to read only pro-UFO literature and ignore skeptical viewpoints.

The UFOs of Hessdalen

The article details the Hessdalen light phenomena, which began attracting UFOlogists about five years prior to the publication. NIVFO established a meteorological station in Hessdalen on April 1, 1984, to investigate the phenomena using plasma and inversion theories. The investigation found that most sightings could be explained by known phenomena such as aircraft, astronomical objects, satellites, and car lights. A residual group of unexplained events remained, which the article suggests could be related to atmospheric plasma formation and temperature inversions creating mirror-like effects. NIVFO published a 70-page report on the findings, available in English.

The article notes that Hessdalen is not unique, with similar 'localized' light phenomena reported elsewhere. Historical accounts of lights in Hessdalen date back to 1870.

Ridicule

UFO stories are often subject to global myth-spreading. The Hessdalen case has generated widespread speculation. The article criticizes media coverage, citing examples from Danish and Norwegian newspapers that sensationalized the events. It notes that initially, before ufologists dominated the narrative, there was no ridicule associated with the Hessdalen phenomena.

UFOlogy in Historical Perspective

In the mid-1960s, the UFO movement was heavily influenced by George Adamski, who claimed contact with Venusians and interplanetary travel. His narratives, including descriptions of cities on the Moon, were widely believed, with critics often dismissed as agents of a conspiracy to hide the truth. The article mentions the rise of other movements like Universal Link and the Orthon movement, associated with Adamski's 'friend' from Venus.

It highlights the contrast between Adamski's fantastical stories and the more research-oriented approach of Donald Keyhoe and NICAP. The article suggests that many UFO enthusiasts were driven by a desire to prove extraterrestrial visitation and validate their own beliefs, partly as a response to the threat of nuclear war.

The article discusses the evolution of UFOlogy, noting that figures like J. Allen Hynek, initially a proponent, eventually found results that aligned with skeptical viewpoints. Allan Hendry, Hynek's chief investigator, reportedly resolved about 98% of cases, suggesting that with better resources, the remaining few could also be explained.

The Skeptical Approach

The article contrasts the ufologists' approach with that of skeptics. It argues that ufologists often fail to engage with skeptical literature and maintain a biased perspective. The article presents the work of organizations like CENAP (Germany) and SUFOI (Denmark) as examples of more serious, skeptical UFO research. CENAP is noted for its high case-resolution rate and focus on debunking naive elements within the UFO movement. SUFOI, while not strictly skeptical, is praised for publishing skeptical articles and material in its journal UFO-NYT and for not censoring reports like the Hessdalen report.

The article criticizes the sensationalism sometimes present in UFO publications, driven by economic necessity. It also mentions IGAP in Denmark as a sect-like group that celebrates the death of J. Allen Hynek, whom they viewed as too weak in his belief in spaceships.

Post-UFOlogy

The article concludes by suggesting that the typical UFO movement, as exemplified by a TV appearance, is characterized by naive pronouncements, rejection of scientific commentary, claims of 'unknown phenomena,' and blind faith in anecdotal evidence. It posits that this stems from a foundation of myth-making rather than verifiable facts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is a critical examination of UFOlogy. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk unsubstantiated claims and promote a scientific, evidence-based approach to unexplained phenomena. The magazine highlights the importance of rigorous investigation, critical thinking, and the resolution of cases through scientific means, contrasting this with what it perceives as the often irrational and pseudoscientific nature of mainstream UFOlogy. The Hessdalen case serves as a primary example of how phenomena initially deemed mysterious can be explained through scientific inquiry.

Notable Quote: "Man vet ikke hva det er, bare at det er noe hittil ukjent." (One does not know what it is, only that it is something hitherto unknown.) - This quote, attributed to ufologists, encapsulates the fundamental premise of UFOlogy that the article seeks to challenge.

Notable Quote Speaker: Ufologists (as described in the article)

FAQ:

• What is the main claim of UFOlogy? The main claim of UFOlogy is that UFO phenomena exist and represent a hitherto completely unknown phenomenon.
• What criteria do ufologists use to support their claims? Ufologists use criteria such as UFO reports from all countries and cultures since 1947, credible witnesses (police, pilots), radar sightings, and a persistent 'hard core' of unexplained cases.
• What was NIVFO's conclusion regarding the Hessdalen lights? NIVFO's investigation concluded that a large portion of the Hessdalen sightings could be attributed to known phenomena, but a residual group remained unexplained, possibly due to atmospheric plasma and inversion layers.
• How does the article characterize the typical UFO proponent? The article suggests that many UFO proponents are overly reliant on pro-UFO literature, dismiss skeptical arguments, and are not truly objective or scientific in their approach.

Title: Para-nyt
Issue: nr. 1/1987
Date: 1987-01-01
Publisher: NIVFO
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of Para-nyt delves into several topics related to unexplained phenomena, skepticism, and societal issues, featuring articles on UFO sightings, historical curses, and the dangers of religious sects.

UFO Skepticism and Debunking

The 'Flying Saucer from Mars' Hoax

The article begins by discussing the 1954 book "Flying Saucer from Mars" by Cedric Allingham, which claimed a personal encounter with a Martian. It highlights how this book was considered significant evidence by ufologists. However, the text reveals that the entire story, including the author and the encounter, was fabricated by astronomer Patrick Moore. The Danish edition of the book, published in 1962, included a foreword by a prominent ufologist praising Allingham as a sober individual who excluded anything doubtful, ironically contrasting with the book's fictional nature.

The Bentwaters-Lakenheath Incident, 1956

This section focuses on the radar-visual UFO incident that occurred on August 13-14, 1956, at the Bentwaters and Lakenheath airbases in eastern England. The Condon Commission described it as a highly puzzling and unusual case. The incident involved radar detecting unidentified targets moving at extremely high speeds, far exceeding those of conventional aircraft or meteors. Personnel at Bentwaters reported seeing an object moving rapidly across the airfield, and a pilot of a C-47 transport plane observed a light passing below his aircraft. Later that evening, a similar object was tracked by radar at Lakenheath, exhibiting unusual behavior such as stopping abruptly and then moving at high speed. Radar operators and personnel described the object's size as comparable to a golf ball held at arm's length. The article notes that the original Blue Book report mentioned that two radar sets at Lakenheath and three observers reported essentially the same phenomenon.

However, the article presents critical voices questioning the interpretation of this event. Radar expert E.P. Hall states that "false radar echoes" are common along the east coast of Britain due to atmospheric conditions (temperature inversions) and can mimic the appearance of ships or other objects. He expresses being unimpressed by the "unusual" behavior of radar echoes, considering it a well-known phenomenon. Another radar expert, C.A. Fowler, told UFO skeptic Philip Klass that false radar targets are quite common and was surprised that "Astronautics & Aeronautics" published the report.

Gordon David Thayer's reconstruction of the event, based on letters and original reports, is presented. Thayer's analysis suggests that the radar signals might have been caused by atmospheric conditions or other mundane explanations. The article also includes testimony from Freddie Wimbledon, a former radar station chief at Neatishead, who was involved in the investigation. Wimbledon expresses skepticism about the initial reports, suggesting that the radar targets could have been misinterpreted echoes from aircraft or atmospheric phenomena. He believes that only the radar target pursued by the Venom jet remains unidentified, but even that could be due to atmospheric conditions or a hostile aircraft.

Philip Klass suggests that visual sightings might be explained by meteor showers like the Perseids. He also posits that radar signals could have been reflections from ground targets, creating a delayed echo of the aircraft itself. The article concludes that the Bentwaters-Lakenheath case, while initially considered a classic UFO incident, may have more mundane explanations, with the unidentified radar target being the only truly puzzling element.

UFO Principles

Philip J. Klass outlines ten principles for understanding UFO reports:

1. Observer Inaccuracy: Honest and intelligent people can be inaccurate when describing unexpected events.
2. Perceptual Limitations: Human perception has limitations, and distinguishing precise details from inaccurate ones in unusual events is difficult.
3. Misinterpretation of Causality: Observers may incorrectly attribute reactions of objects to their own presence or actions.
4. Media Hype: News media often prioritize sensational UFO reports over prosaic explanations.
5. Size and Distance Estimation: Humans are poor at estimating the size and distance of unfamiliar objects in the sky without known reference points.
6. Natural Objects Mimicking UFOs: Natural phenomena, especially at night, can be perceived as unusual objects by hopeful observers, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of sightings.
7. Focus on Physical Evidence: Investigators should rely on physical evidence rather than witness character assessments when determining if a report is a hoax.
8. Insufficient Information: The inability of even experienced researchers to fully explain a UFO report due to lack of information does not automatically support the hypothesis of extraterrestrial visitation.
9. Radar and Visual Correlation: If a radar operator is asked to look for an unknown target, one will likely be found. Conversely, if an unusual radar target is reported, a visual sighting is often made.
10. Inadequate Investigation: Many UFO cases appear inexplicable simply because the investigation was not thorough enough.

Klass asserts that these principles have been confirmed in cases like Hessdalen and are highly relevant.

The Curse of Tutankhamun

This article by Willy Wegner examines the persistent myth of the curse of Tutankhamun's tomb, discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter and financed by Lord Carnarvon. The legend claims that a curse befell those who disturbed the pharaoh's rest.

The narrative recounts that four months after the tomb's opening, Lord Carnarvon died in Cairo. The article mentions a story about all lights in Cairo blinking out at the moment of his death and his dog howling and dying simultaneously at his estate in England, over 3,000 kilometers away. It is stated that thirteen out of twenty people present at the tomb's opening allegedly died within a few years, fueling the curse myth.

Further examples are given, including the death of Carnarvon's wife, Lady Almina, from an insect bite in 1929, and the death of his secretary, Richard Betchell, who reportedly committed suicide after hearing of his son's death. The article criticizes the tendency to blame the pharaoh for these events.

The curse was reportedly still considered active in 1979 during the Tutankhamun exhibition in the USA. A guard named George LeBrash suffered a stroke and sought compensation, claiming injury from the curse. However, a judge dismissed the case, arguing that if the curse were real, many exhibition visitors would also have suffered. The judge pointed out that the guard's duty was to prevent desecration of the treasures, not to be harmed by a curse.

The article strongly suggests that the curse was invented by Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon themselves. Upon discovering the tomb's untouched treasures, they needed to ensure their protection. This was achieved partly by having a security officer sleep in the tomb and partly by spreading the myth of the pharaoh's curse. Richard Adamson, a former security officer, is quoted saying, "We let this story circulate because it eased the night watch. For seven years I slept in the tomb at night." The article concludes that the curse is an "agurketids-historie" (a story for the silly season).

Religious Sects and Their Dangers

This section features reflections by Alf Nordhus on religious sects, prompted by a report from France about a potential ban on certain religious groups. Nordhus notes that the authorities are compelled to act due to the negative impact on some young individuals who become deeply involved in these groups, leading to broken family ties and psychological manipulation.

He draws a parallel to the "development" seen in the USA, where sects are expanding. While acknowledging that religion has historically been linked to fear and anxiety (citing the Greek philosopher Epikur), Nordhus emphasizes that tolerance should not lead to passivity. He argues that unhealthy and harmful situations must be addressed.

Nordhus contrasts the stability provided by the established church and free churches in Norway with the disharmony and lack of homogeneity in American society, which he sees as a source of potentially harmful imported sect ideologies and practices.

Pathological Group Mentality

Under the heading "PATOLOGISK" (Pathological), the article discusses the dangers of group mentality, citing the murder of a Norwegian student by a homosexual sect in New York. Nordhus stresses that the issue is not necessarily the act of murder itself, but the group dynamics: the blind adherence to leaders, the suppression of dissent, and the recruitment of vulnerable individuals. He notes that there is always a "cause" to rally behind and a leader willing to coerce others.

The author concludes this section with a call for clarity of thought, suggesting the motto "Give us back the day."

A follow-up note indicates that the trend discussed by Alf Nordhus has not reversed in the two years since his writing.

The Meaning of Chernobyl

This article, attributed to Willy Wegner, explores the etymology of the name "Chernobyl" (Tsjernobyl in Norwegian) and its connection to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

Professor Egil A. Wyller of Harvard University suggested that "Chernobyl" means "wormwood" (malurt in Norwegian), linking it to a biblical prophecy of a star named Wormwood falling to Earth and poisoning the waters. This interpretation suggested a prophetic connection to the nuclear disaster.

However, the article presents a counter-argument from Professor Siri Svedrup Lunden and other Slavic linguists. They explain that "Chernobyl" (or "Chernobil" in Ukrainian) is the name for *Artemisia vulgaris L.*, commonly known as mugwort or wild wormwood. The word "polyn" (found in various Slavic languages) is a general term for plants in the *Artemisia* genus, but in Russian and Ukrainian, it specifically refers to *Artemisia absinthium*, or common wormwood.

The linguists acknowledge that plant names can be transferred between species and that regional variations exist. They also note that "cerno-" in Slavic languages means "black," and "-byl" likely relates to an archaic word for "grass." Therefore, "Chernobyl" could mean "black grass" or "black wormwood."

While acknowledging that plant names can be associated with color, the article questions Wyller's assertion that "Chernobyl" implies a devilish meaning similar to "svartemaja" (black magic/witch). The biblical association of wormwood with bitterness and toxicity is noted as a reason for its negative connotations, but the article points out that wormwood extracts have historically been used as medicine and are ingredients in vermouth and bitters.

The author expresses surprise that Wyller was informed that "Chernobyl" meant "black" in the sense of "devilish." The article questions why people would die from "wormwood" (as suggested by the biblical interpretation of the Revelation) when dying from nuclear accidents or even "star wars" is more understandable.

It is clarified that "polyn" (Russian for wormwood) is the plant *Artemisia vulgaris*, and "cernobyl" refers to *Artemisia absinthium*. The name is composed of "cerno-" (black) and "-byl" (grass), suggesting "black grass."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Para-nyt adopts a consistently skeptical and critical stance towards sensational claims, particularly in the realm of UFO phenomena. The articles aim to debunk popular myths and provide rational explanations based on scientific principles and expert testimony. The Bentwaters-Lakenheath case, often cited as a prime example of a UFO encounter, is thoroughly dissected, highlighting the prevalence of misinterpretations and the potential for mundane explanations. Similarly, the Tutankhamun's curse is presented as a manufactured legend, not a genuine supernatural phenomenon. The discussion on religious sects serves as a cautionary note on the dangers of group psychology and manipulation, reinforcing the magazine's theme of critical thinking and the avoidance of uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims. The editorial stance clearly favors empirical evidence and rational analysis over speculation and belief in the paranormal.

This issue of *Folkvett* (Nr. 1-2/1986) delves into a variety of topics, primarily focusing on critical examinations of pseudoscientific claims, media responsibility, and the nature of popular science. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, aiming to debunk misinformation and promote rational thinking.

Confused About Health: The Theories of Bengt Stern

The lead article, "FORVIRRET OM HELSE" (Confused About Health), reviews a book by Swedish author Bengt Stern titled *At växa till hälsa* (To Grow into Health). The author of the review finds Stern to be a confused individual and his book largely incomprehensible. Despite this, Stern has gained significant attention through his lecture series and popular weekend courses, even extending his work to drug rehabilitation. The core of Stern's philosophy, as interpreted by the reviewer, is that most illnesses are caused by suppressed destructive emotions such as hate, anger, and bitterness. The proposed remedy is to re-experience painful emotional memories, particularly those from infancy, such as a mother's distress during pregnancy. The reviewer notes that Stern's ideas seem to draw from Freudian psychology and primal therapy, contrasting sharply with conventional medical understanding of diseases like cancer. Stern dismisses criticism of agricultural policies or workplace safety committees dealing with chemical risks as a waste of time. His worldview is described as a 'holistic model of the universe' blending with a 'psychic universe' and concepts of karma and universal love. Stern advocates for a self-help program called "MOT-DEG-SELV-PROGRAMMET" (The 'Get Over Yourself' Program). The review concludes by warning that Stern's work is not only politically dangerous due to its 'false ideology production' but also poses a risk to individuals in crisis, potentially causing them harm beyond financial loss.

Gunnar Steineck, a doctor at Radiumhemmet in Stockholm, is cited as the source for this review. A separate note mentions a longer article about Bengt Stern in *Sökaren* nr. 3/87, which includes a letter from a social secretary commenting on Stern's courses and book.

Does the Star Sign or Ear Lobe Determine You?

This article criticizes the media's role in promoting pseudoscience, particularly horoscopes. It notes that many daily newspapers regularly publish horoscopes, presenting them as facts that readers often believe. The article highlights efforts by organizations like CSICOP in the USA to have newspapers preface horoscopes with disclaimers stating they are for entertainment only. It questions the stance of Swedish and Norwegian newspapers on this issue. The press is accused of failing its responsibility by publishing articles on pseudoscientific phenomena without critical scrutiny. Examples from the Swedish newspaper *Aftonbladet* are given: one article featured a 'face reader' making confident claims about people's intelligence and character based on their faces, and another presented a 'government horoscope' suggesting which ministers work well together based on astrological alignments. The article argues that judging individuals based on birth dates, nose shapes, or eyebrows is as undemocratic and discriminatory as judging them by skin color. It raises concerns about employers using astrology for hiring decisions and speculates whether future election campaigns might focus on interpretations of earlobes rather than political messages. The organization *Vetenskap och Folkbildning* (Science and Education) is mentioned as working to combat such delusions before they cause serious harm, urging mass media to take responsibility.

A follow-up note indicates that Swedish companies have indeed started using horoscopes in hiring. The article then questions the situation in Norway, mentioning a case where a Trondheim-based company (and possibly others) received offers from the USA for telexed horoscopes. An editor from *Adresseavisen* is quoted as saying that writing about astrology is not worthwhile because no one is foolish enough to believe in it.

Easily Deceived Magazine

This section reports on a prank where *Folket i Bild/Kulturfront* tricked *Aftonbladet*'s Sunday supplement into publishing an article about 'omphaloskopy' – a new method of diagnosing and healing diseases by looking at the navel. The article was a hoax; the method and the Danish doctor promoting it did not exist. The 'journalist's' name, Lave A Visfup, is a Danish anagram for 'make a newspaper hoax.' The intention was to expose *Aftonbladet*'s increasingly prevalent 'navel-gazing journalism.' Amelia Adamo, the editor of the supplement, admitted being fooled but noted that 'navel-gazing' was no stranger than 'healing,' a topic *Aftonbladet* had covered extensively. The piece is attributed to JS, with a note from Red. indicating uncertainty about whether this therapy was featured in NRK's P2 series "Flere veier til god helse."

Renaissance for the Middle Ages!

This short piece discusses a 12-part Easter series on NRK P2 exploring medieval tendencies in contemporary art and culture. An astrologer is mentioned as being part of the series, with the first program titled "The Middle Ages are Fashionable?" (Palm Sunday).

APRO Leader Dead

This brief notice reports the death of Jim Lorenzen, the 64-year-old leader of APRO (Arial Phenomena Research Organisation Inc.), on August 8, 1986. APRO, founded in 1952, was described as the oldest UFO organization in the USA, taking 'contactee' reports seriously. The article notes that APRO had become a shadow of its former self in recent years, with its publication, "The APRO bulletin," appearing irregularly due to Coral Lorenzen's illness. Jim Lorenzen had co-authored five UFO books with his wife. His death is seen as a loss for proponents of the spaceship hypothesis.

Do You Bet?

This section highlights a bookmaker, William Hall in London, who offers bets on various unusual events, including Elvis Presley's reincarnation in a flying saucer, Clint Eastwood becoming US president, and aliens landing at the White House. Odds are provided for these bets. The article mentions a woman in California who has lost a fortune betting on flying saucers landing in her garden. Hall refused a bet on the date of World War III for ethical reasons, stating that if the bettor won, they might not be around to collect.

Occam's Barber Knife Shaves Theory About Aliens

This article critiques James W. Deardorff's "leaky embargo" theory, which suggests that advanced, benevolent aliens have imposed a ban on official contact with Earth to prevent chaos. Deardorff, a retired professor of atmospheric sciences, proposed this theory to explain 'third-degree encounters' between aliens and 'non-official' Earthlings. The theory posits that aliens are gradually revealing themselves to prepare humanity for eventual official contact. The author of the article, however, argues that this theory is speculative and unnecessary. They invoke Occam's Razor, the principle that the simplest explanation is usually the best. The article suggests that the observed phenomena are more likely due to human deception and the desire for sensationalism, rather than alien intervention. It points out that humans are not necessarily opposed to hoaxes if they serve their purpose, and there is ample evidence of 'third-degree encounters' being staged by failed or sensation-seeking individuals. The author concludes that Occam's Razor is a valuable tool for understanding such phenomena, and that the 'leaky embargo' theory makes unnecessary assumptions.

A related note mentions the rediscovery of the Hairy or Mole-rat (Chaetomys subspinosus) in Brazil by biologist Ilmar Santos, suggesting that cryptozoologists have missed another opportunity to discredit the scientific community.

About Popular Science

This is a review of the book *Vetenskapen i underlandet* (Science in Wonderland) by Gunnar Eriksson and Lena Svensson. The review praises the book for addressing the neglected history of popular science and for being a much-needed contribution. It discusses the difficulty in defining popular science, tracing its origins to the Galilean era when science became a profession and specialization increased. The book itself is presented as an example of good popular science, being both a scholarly work and accessible to readers without specialized knowledge. The review highlights the role of popular science in making scientific information available to the general public and integrating science into culture. It acknowledges criticisms of popular science, such as the idea that it leads to 'half-education' or sensationalism, and the risk of oversimplification and misinterpretation, particularly in complex fields like quantum mechanics. The review emphasizes the book's argument for the importance of explaining scientific methods, not just results, and criticizes popular science for often presenting a misleadingly simple picture of scientific work. It notes that popular science often omits the collective effort behind scientific progress, contributing to an elitist view of science. The authors advocate for a clear distinction between popular and scientific texts and for acknowledging the limits of popular presentations. The review concludes by stating that popular science, while often treated as a genre between fiction and academic writing, deserves recognition, and *Vetenskapen i underlandet* is a significant contribution to this field.

The Danger of Popularization

This section, part of the review of *Vetenskapen i underlandet*, discusses the criticisms leveled against popular science. It notes that some argue that popular science creates 'half-education' rather than genuine understanding. Eriksson and Svensson are quoted as describing a tendency in popular science to focus on sensational aspects of modern science and to present 'less or more sensational details.' This can lead to more misunderstandings than insights. The authors suggest that even serious popular science requires simplification, often using analogies that can be misinterpreted. Quantum mechanics is cited as an example where popular explanations struggle to convey the counter-intuitive nature of phenomena like electrons behaving as both particles and waves, leading to apparent logical contradictions.

Scientology in Norway

This extensive section details the activities of the Scientology movement in Norway, drawing on reports from *Dagsrevyen* and *Aftenposten*. It describes how individuals, often in vulnerable states, are drawn into the movement, experiencing a loss of friends, stalled studies, and significant financial drain. One former Scientologist recounts being lured into a personality test that identified him as having numerous flaws. He underwent expensive communication courses, was subjected to sleep deprivation and vitamin therapy, leading to physical ailments. He eventually signed a blank check for 150,000 Norwegian Kroner for more courses and purchased an 'E-meter' for 40,000 Kroner. He managed to escape the movement but faced significant financial debt. The article highlights that many young people have incurred debts of up to 750,000 Kroner. Legal actions are being taken against Scientology in Norway, focusing on issues like VAT on books and courses, accounting practices, and the legality of their services. Lawyer Peter L. Bernhardt is preparing cases where individuals seek the return of funds they 'donated' to the movement. The article notes that Scientology's primary goal is financial gain, with 'Mammon' being their only god.

Consequences and Public Opinion

This part of the Scientology exposé discusses the potential impact of these revelations in Norway. It acknowledges that such exposés are not new internationally but questions whether they will have a significant effect on the market. The article draws a parallel to Uri Geller, who reportedly gained new customers despite revelations about his tricks. It suggests that if people are eager to be deceived, and both charlatans and official institutions provide opportunities for this, such lucrative schemes will continue, especially when protected under the guise of religion. The section "FOLKETS RØSTER" (The People's Voice) emphasizes the importance of public awareness and action, mentioning the Swedish organization *Föreningen Rädda Individen* (FRI), which aims to protect individuals from commercial cults. The article calls for similar initiatives in Norway and stresses the need for organization and coordination to combat pseudoscience and pseudoreligion.

It criticizes the lack of public education and media's tendency to report on sensational claims without providing critical counter-narratives. The article suggests that media coverage often focuses on the 'irresistible' nature of irrationality and the allure of simple solutions offered by 'charlatans.' It notes that books and magazines promoting pseudoscience are readily available, with students being a major customer base. The article laments that the selection of pseudoscientific books often outweighs that of scientific ones. It questions whether this is a sufficient explanation for why individuals fall prey to such schemes, suggesting that a generation raised amidst a wave of irrationality might be more susceptible. However, it also acknowledges that older individuals are also victims, and that most people, regardless of age, retain common sense.

The article concludes by reiterating that individuals drawn into cults often have existing problems, making them prime targets, similar to those seeking quackery. It emphasizes that ignorance plays a significant role and that the reasons for this ignorance are well-known. A specific note warns readers about the book "Dianetics" by Ron Hubbard, stating that purchasing it supports the Scientology sect, whose primary tenet is "Make money!"

UFO Phenomena Over Norway

This section announces the relaunch of NIVFO's journal, *UFON!*, which will focus on UFO phenomena in Norway. The journal, published by NIVFO Nord, will come out approximately four times a year, with each issue being about 16 pages long. The subscription price is 50 Norwegian Kroner per year. The article notes that UFO reports continue to come in from Norway, with most appearing in newspapers, but NIVFO also receives direct inquiries. These reports are investigated by NIVFO when circumstances permit. The purpose of the journal is to cater to the interest of *NIVFO-Bulletin* readers who are keen on UFO-related content, which often requires more space than can be accommodated in the bulletin. Subscribing to *UFON!* will keep readers informed about UFO phenomena in Norway, including what is reported and the conclusions of investigations. The article acknowledges that the registration and investigation of such cases are costly, citing press clipping subscriptions and long-distance calls as examples, making the 50 Kroner price for the journal very reasonable.

Front Cover Photo

The front cover features a photograph from the famous Tenerife incident on March 5, 1979. The incident reportedly received widespread coverage and spawned many imaginative details in UFO literature. The article mentions that Norwegian singer Finn Kalvik claimed to have witnessed the UFO, describing it as a 'saucer-shaped object' that exploded in a bright light. Kalvik stated that the experience changed his life and occurred in the Canary Islands in 1977. However, the article points out that his memory of the date is off by two years and that the image actually shows a submarine-launched rocket.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of *Folkvett* consistently promotes a critical and skeptical approach to claims that lack scientific evidence. The magazine actively debunks pseudoscientific theories, exposes media sensationalism, and warns against the dangers of cults and irrational belief systems. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rationalism, scientific inquiry, and informed public discourse. The magazine aims to educate its readers and protect them from deception, whether it comes from dubious health gurus, astrological predictions, or manipulative organizations like Scientology. The emphasis is on critical thinking and the importance of evidence-based understanding.

Title: UFO-VISION
Issue: 1987
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Publication Frequency: Once a year, in February.
Format: A4, 52 pages.
Price: Dkr. 78,-

This issue of UFO-VISION is an annual publication from Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI), serving as a yearbook for UFO literature. It is not a continuation of the magazine Skeptica, as the publisher and focus differ. UFO-Vision primarily engages with UFO literature, offering reviews of both new and older books, some in-depth and others as brief 'book notes'. It also features articles that explore UFO theories.

UFO-Vision 1987 Edition

The reviewed 1987 edition is an A4-format publication with 52 pages, priced at Dkr. 78. It contains reviews of various UFO books, assessing their quality from highly varied perspectives. The editor, Kim Møller Hansen, states that UFO-Vision does not claim to definitively judge which books are good or bad, leaving that to the reader. However, individual reviewers may offer negative commentary on books they deem to be of a very low standard, as noted in relation to the discussion of UFO organizations on page 8 of the NIVFO-Bulletin.

Key Content Highlights

The Mosjøenrapporten: A significant portion of the review focuses on the "Mosjøenrapporten," a case study detailed on page 48 of the yearbook. The reviewer notes that NIVFO spent over four years gathering information, primarily microfilm copies of newspapers and older publications, for this report. The report is compared to Willy Wegner's book "UFOer - top secret?", which is considered the best summary of the case. The Mosjøenrapporten itself, spanning 55 A4 pages, is said to contain nearly all available material on the subject, including obscure local newspaper information. It constructs a logical theory about the "two sisters' story," contrasting the "landed helicopter and its pilot" hypothesis with a hoax theory based on Adamski's book. Despite this, the UFO-Vision reviewer suggests the report does not bring greater clarity to the case's true context, a sentiment the magazine's own editors echo, leaving the final judgment to the reader. The Mosjøenrapporten is still available for purchase at kr. 49,50.

Comparison with Skeptica: The article contrasts UFO-Vision's approach with that of "SKEPTICA," which declared itself a "critical forum for off-beat literature and pseudoscience." UFO-Vision, in contrast, aims to let readers form their own conclusions.

Skepticism and Media: The issue also touches upon broader themes of information control and media. An article titled "PRESSEFRIHETEN TRUES" (Freedom of the Press is Threatened), referencing an Aftenposten editorial from January 10, 1987, discusses how powerful entities attempt to hinder the flow of information. It notes the increasing number of journalists facing obstacles and the use of censorship.

"PARANORMAL TIMES" Section: This section discusses a series of sensational front-page articles in The Seattle Times, which ran for three weeks starting at the end of 1986. These articles covered UFOs, New Age groups, and "Ley lines." A New Age adherent, John Channon, was featured, and the articles touched upon ESP, spoon-bending, and Shirley MacLaine's TV film "Out on a Limb."

UFO Story in The Seattle Times: A prominent UFO story broke on December 31, 1986, in The Seattle Times, followed by another on January 6, 1987, featuring an interview with Robert Gribble. The article dismisses Gribble as an insignificant figure in the UFO field.

"Ley Lines" Explained: The concept of "ley lines" is introduced as "invisible power lines" that crisscross the globe and are believed to be responsible for paranormal phenomena. The article notes that the "Seattle Arts Commission" reportedly granted $5000 to a New Age group to map Seattle's ley lines.

CSICOP and Media Coverage: A sensational UFO observation, mentioned as being covered in the next issue of NIB, was clarified when CSICOP's press release reached The Seattle Times. However, the newspaper did not print this clarification, suggesting a lack of space.

Quotes: The issue includes quotes from former President John F. Kennedy on the nature of truth and myths, and from Francis Bacon on gullibility.

Skepticism Note: A footnote clarifies that the magazine "Skeptica" began in 1981 and was replaced by "PARA-NYT" about a year later.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO-VISION revolve around the critical examination of UFO literature, the importance of skepticism, and the role of media in reporting on paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging readers to critically evaluate information, rather than passively accepting claims. While UFO-Vision reviews a wide spectrum of UFO-related materials, it implicitly values well-researched and documented cases, as seen in the detailed discussion of the Mosjøenrapporten, while also acknowledging the existence of less credible material. The publication seems to advocate for a balanced approach, allowing for the possibility of genuine phenomena while remaining vigilant against pseudoscience and unsubstantiated claims. The critique of media practices, particularly regarding the suppression of clarifying information, further underscores a commitment to transparency and informed public discourse.