NIVFO-Bulletin - 1991 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of the NIVFO Bulletin, dated 1/1991 and in its 11th year of publication, serves as a critical forum for scientific research and enlightenment, focusing on pseudoscience and related literature. The cover features a cartoon illustrating disagreement about parapsychology, with the main headline stating 'There is disagreement about parapsychology.' It also highlights James Randi as an expert on humbug and poses the question of his visit to Norway.

Editorial Section: Godt nytt år! (Happy New Year!)

The editorial, written by 'Red.' (likely the editor), reflects on the concept of value and how it can be manipulated, drawing a parallel to how Adolf Hitler could gain power through democratic elections. It references Per Borgaard's observations from a DUIST congress, where audiences enthusiastically applauded even nonsensical or contradictory statements, as long as they used buzzwords like 'cosmic brotherhood' and 'spiritual community.' The editorial also recounts an incident where an audience reacted negatively to a speaker questioning the existence of flying saucers. The editor connects these past events to a contemporary rise in irrationality and mysticism. The editorial notes a strong start to 1991 with a rapid increase in subscription renewals. It also mentions Jan S. Krogh, the new regional leader for NIVFO ØST, and highlights the bulletin's increased media presence, including local radio appearances and positive mentions in foreign journals. Several UFO sightings have been reported. A significant upcoming event is James Randi's planned European tour, which is expected to be a major media event if he visits Norway. The editorial also briefly mentions CSICOP's plans for a new building in Buffalo, New York, and praises the Finnish group SKEPTIKKO for its excellent work, despite the language barrier.

Article: Parapsykologi (Parapsychology)

This section features an introductory speech given by Preben Aavitsland at a student meeting in Trondheim on April 8, 1989. Aavitsland, representing NIVFO OST, Oslo, begins by illustrating the principle that the amount and quality of evidence must correspond to the extraordinariness of the claim. He uses personal anecdotes about traveling to Trondheim to demonstrate this point, contrasting a plausible scenario (taking the train) with highly improbable ones (flying with his own hands).

Bevis Mengden (Amount of Evidence)

Aavitsland argues that claims in parapsychology, such as telekinesis or bending spoons, require exceptionally strong evidence because they challenge natural laws. He criticizes the tactic used by parapsychologists of presenting a false dichotomy: either accept their results or accuse them of cheating. He contrasts this with the scientific method, where results are scrutinized, and if not reproducible, are discarded without accusing the original researcher of fraud.

Catch 22 and Explanations for Failed Experiments

He introduces the concept of 'Catch 22,' referencing Joseph Heller's novel, to explain how parapsychologists often dismiss failed replication attempts. A common excuse is that 'negative vibrations from skeptics ruin the experiment.' This is presented as an absurd rationalization, similar to how a person claiming to be sane is deemed insane because they want to avoid military service. Other excuses include 'negative vibrations that go back in time' or the idea that psychic effects diminish over time. Aavitsland points out that these explanations are used to avoid the fundamental scientific requirement of reproducibility.

Critique of Parapsychological Experiments

Aavitsland states that skeptics do not need to prove fraud in parapsychological experiments; it is sufficient to show that the experiments are not reproducible. He notes that while thousands of parapsychological experiments claim significant results, skeptics must select the most important ones for review. He mentions the work of psychologists like Ray Hyman, C.E.M. Hansel, Charles Akers, David Marks, and Richard Kammann. Key principles for evaluating these experiments include:

1. Each experiment must be judged on its own merits.
2. An experiment is only as strong as its weakest link.
3. Normal explanations are more probable than paranormal ones.

He illustrates this with the example of Uri Geller allegedly copying drawings, where the paranormal explanation was unnecessary because Geller could have obtained information through normal means (e.g., signals from an assistant).

Key Learnings from Critical Reviews

From critical reviews of parapsychological research, Aavitsland draws several key lessons:

1. There is a lot of poor scientific craftsmanship, particularly in control measures and randomization.
2. Both subjects and researchers have frequently cheated, with many caught in the act.
3. Scientists, especially physicists, are easily fooled by tricksters claiming paranormal abilities, citing Uri Geller as a prime example.
4. Expertise in a scientific field does not automatically confer expertise in parapsychology.
5. Since gifted subjects often use standard magic tricks, the presence of skeptical magicians is crucial for controlling experiments.
6. Parapsychological results have a lifespan of about 10 years before being debunked by replication failures and critical scrutiny.
7. Each generation of parapsychologists seems to start anew, lacking a solid base of confirmed experiments.
8. Negative results are rarely reported, leading to a biased view of the field.

Aavitsland summarizes that the history of parapsychology is one of fraud, deception, incompetence, and a lack of reproducible results.

Why Skepticism?

He addresses common criticisms of skeptics, such as being accused of lacking openness or being dogmatic. Aavitsland argues that skepticism is a necessary tool for sifting through claims and theories, comparing it to the work of Galileo. He emphasizes that true scientific advancement requires not just being contradicted but being demonstrably correct.

Skeptics play a vital role in cleaning up science by exposing false claims, saving researchers time, money, and careers, and preventing charlatans like Uri Geller from deceiving the public. He concludes that skepticism is healthy science.

Summary and Conclusion

Aavitsland reiterates his main points:

1. Evidence must match the extraordinariness of the claim; this is not the case in parapsychology.
2. The burden of proof lies with those making claims, a principle often ignored in parapsychology.
3. Experiments must be reproducible by other researchers, a requirement parapsychology fails to meet.
4. The history of parapsychology is marked by fraud, deception, incompetence, and a lack of reproducibility.
5. Skepticism is healthy science.

He questions whether parapsychology deserves the title of science, describing it as a mix of anecdotes, coincidences, religion, and poor experiments, lacking laws, theories, reproducibility, predictive power, or a unifying method.

Regarding the question of consequences if parapsychological phenomena were real, Aavitsland states it's a waste of time to discuss until their reality is proven, likening it to discussing the stock market impact of human flight before it's proven possible.

AVSI UTNING (Conclusion)

To conclude his speech, Aavitsland humorously reveals how he 'flew' to Trondheim: with his own hands, a feat he claims is not difficult, the hardest part being landing clearance. He quotes Erik Dammann: 'The laws of science are no more binding than we choose to believe they are.' Aavitsland ironically suggests that if this were true, one could jump off Trollveggen without a parachute. He mentions a book by Dammann titled 'My Life as a Bird,' which supposedly teaches how to fly. He ends with a humorous warning about wearing a helmet and avoiding drunk flying.

Preben Aavitsland is a doctor and leads NIVFO SØR in Kristiansand.

John Mannsåker from the Norwegian Parapsychological Society (NPS) was the other speaker at the meeting.

Article: UFO

This article details a reported UFO sighting and alleged abduction near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on December 4, 1988. A police officer claimed to have encountered a UFO, experiencing physiological effects. Another officer reportedly witnessed the event. Initial analysis of collected samples was compared to those from an Australian UFO incident. The case was investigated by Stan Gordon, MUFON's state director for Pennsylvania, who suggested the witness had been abducted by a UFO and returned. This account was widely published by MUFON members and in a press release from PASU (Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained).

Astronomical Society of Harrisburg (ASH) Perspective

Members of the Astronomical Society of Harrisburg (ASH) offered a more prosaic explanation, suggesting the event could be explained by a combination of the planet Venus and an aircraft, rather than a UFO. They reportedly learned more about ufological methods than about UFOs themselves.

The 'Abductee' Theory and Investigation Difficulties

Stan Gordon proposed the theory of a 'returned abductee.' However, Leslie Varnicle, MUFON's chief investigator for the case, expressed skepticism. The witness, identified only as 'Mr. X,' insisted on anonymity, providing his name only to MUFON and a local talk show host. An attempt by ASH investigator Robert H. Young to obtain a statement via a questionnaire was unsuccessful, as the completed form was never received. MUFON also refused to release the witness's original account or his responses to MUFON questionnaires, even with names redacted.

Inconsistent Details and Lost Evidence

The published information about the case contained widely varying locations, differing by several kilometers. These discrepancies were attributed to MUFON representatives, PASU reports, and witnesses. Physical evidence was reportedly either 'lost' or deemed 'worthless.'

The 'Returned Abductee' Theory Critiqued

Varnicle dismissed the 'returned abductee' theory. The witness reported seeing a bright light at an intersection, after which the UFO disappeared. He also observed a 'bluish haze' and another car whose driver appeared disoriented. The article suggests the bluish haze could be from oncoming headlights, and the 'phosphor-like smell' and 'matt' car color could be due to skidding or braking. The 'disoriented' driver was simply on his way to work.

Physical Evidence and Analysis

The witness's car hood was cold, suggesting the other driver had recently left home. The article questions the need for a 'returned UFO abductee' explanation. The 'powdery dust' on the cars was analyzed by MUFON as 'particles of clay, sodium, and carbon, covered with salt.' The article criticizes MUFON for not conducting control tests, such as considering weather conditions or the time elapsed between the sighting and sample collection. It points out that the Harrisburg samples contained potassium chloride, a common substance on farms in Harrisburg, which Stan Gordon deemed 'strange.'

Physiological Effects

The article lists 46 descriptions of physiological effects reported by the witness, including damaged video tapes and photographs. Leslie Varnicle's report mentions 'serious eye injuries' and 'burning eyes,' but no medical details are provided beyond a visit to a nurse. The witness did not seek further medical treatment. Ufologists claim the burns were not from a high-altitude sun, but the article notes this distinction is not specified. Reported symptoms like 'hair standing on end,' 'vibrating eardrums,' 'aching ears,' and 'electric shock' are attributed to MUFON's questionnaire, suggesting these might be 'artifacts' of their standard investigation techniques.

The 'Confirming' Witness

Leslie Varnicle, the witness's superior, reported hearing a humming or whining sound around the time the object disappeared. However, he stated that his 'third witness' only caught a 'glimpse' and was unsure if they saw anything.

Flying Objects and the Planet Venus

The article notes that initial reports did not mention that both witnesses initially thought they saw a plane. The main witness concluded it was a UFO because it remained stationary despite a 40 mph wind. Later, he claimed the object moved, which he took as further proof of it being a UFO. The description of the object as 'brilliant, comparable to burning magnesium,' and 'blue-white,' is presented as a classic description of the planet Venus, whose apparent movement can be mistaken for an object's motion due to the autokinetic effect.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The NIVFO Bulletin consistently adopts a skeptical stance towards claims of pseudoscience, parapsychology, and UFO phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology, evidence, reproducibility, and critical thinking. The publication aims to debunk fraudulent claims and educate the public about the lack of scientific basis for many paranormal and pseudoscientific assertions. The articles critique the methods and conclusions of parapsychologists and ufologists, often highlighting logical fallacies, lack of evidence, and instances of deception. The bulletin positions itself as a vital counterpoint to the spread of unsubstantiated beliefs, advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding the world.

This issue of NIVFO, dated March 1990, delves into a variety of topics related to unexplained phenomena, UFOs, and skepticism. The cover prominently features the 'GULF BREEZE' case, with a follow-up on Ed Walters' UFO history. Other articles explore cryptozoology, archaeoastronomy, and the formation of new UFO organizations.

UFO Case: Gulf Breeze

The issue revisits the controversial Gulf Breeze UFO case, focusing on photographer Ed Walters. Philip J. Klass reports on Walters' changing story regarding his alleged UFO abduction. Initially, Walters claimed to have been abducted on December 17, 1987, and again on May 1, 1988. However, during a TV talk show appearance, Walters denied ever claiming to be abducted. Klass highlights inconsistencies, particularly regarding a photograph that Walters claimed was lost during an abduction, which he later stated was taken with a new film pack after hypnosis. The article also discusses the discovery of UFO models in Walters' former house, which 'debunkers' allegedly planted to discredit him. Walters' explanation for the discovery involves a hidden crawl space and a water pipe.

Cryptozoology: Monsters on the Beach

This section details the 'Florida Three-Toes' case, which began in February 1984 with large, three-toed footprints found on a beach in Clearwater, Florida. The footprints, measuring 14x11 inches, were initially studied by zoologist Ivan T. Sanderson, who deemed them authentic. The article reveals that the case was a hoax orchestrated by Al Williams and Toni Signorini, who used iron feet to create the prints. The deception continued for nearly ten years.

New UFO Groups: Communion Foundation and The Intruders Foundation

Philip J. Klass reports on the formation of two new UFO groups in the USA, founded by Whitley Strieber and Budd Hopkins, respectively. Both groups aim to promote the idea of 'UFO abductions'. Strieber's 'Communion Foundation' is funded by his book earnings, while Hopkins' 'The Intruders Foundation' seeks tax-deductible donations. These organizations are expected to compete with established groups like MUFON and CUFOS. Strieber's 'Communion Letter' features articles on contacting 'visitors' and 'cluster sightings', while Hopkins focuses on supporting 'abductees'. The article notes Strieber's critical stance on 'kidnapping-researchers' and his belief that the abduction scenario might be a product of imagination.

Arkeoastronomi: A Skeptical Approach

David Vogt discusses the interdisciplinary fields of archaeoastronomy and ethnoastronomy, emphasizing the need for skepticism. He critiques the tendency to interpret ancient structures like Stonehenge as solely astronomical observatories or 'eclipse-computers'. Vogt argues that while these structures *could* have been used for such purposes, it doesn't mean they were built with that specific intention. He advocates for more precise questions, such as whether the number of alignments at Stonehenge for eclipse calculations is statistically significant. Vogt concludes that our understanding of Stonehenge's function has diminished despite increased knowledge of the culture that built it.

Other Articles and Sections

• Statistics: A brief section uses statistics to humorously suggest that driving sober is more dangerous than driving under the influence, highlighting how statistics can be manipulated.
• Press Ethics: This section discusses a case involving an advertisement and editorial text in a Norwegian newspaper, raising questions about journalistic ethics and the legality of certain advertisements.
• Test of Paranormal Abilities: A report on an attempt to test a woman's claimed paranormal abilities by having her identify sentences in books. The test, conducted with NIVFO representatives, yielded negative results.
• NIVFO Region Øst: An announcement about a new regional leader for NIVFO Øst, Jan S. Krogh.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of NIVFO displays a strong skeptical undercurrent, particularly in the articles on the Gulf Breeze case and archaeoastronomy. While reporting on UFO phenomena and alleged paranormal abilities, the magazine consistently seeks rational explanations, highlights potential hoaxes, and questions unsubstantiated claims. The formation of new UFO groups focused on abductions is presented with a critical eye, suggesting a potential for sensationalism. The overall stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to approach such topics with a discerning and evidence-based perspective.

This issue of the magazine, titled 'ROMBAMSEN', appears to be a collection of articles and reader contributions focusing on UFO phenomena, skepticism, and related fringe topics. The cover prominently features the title and hints at extraterrestrial encounters.

Article: The Space Bear

The lead article discusses the changing nature of UFO reports, contrasting them with earlier, more benign encounters. It recounts the story of F. Hansen from Copenhagen, who claims to have met a 'space bear' that emerged from a UFO. Hansen's book, 'Møte med gesandten' (Meeting with the Envoy), details this encounter. According to Hansen, he was informed by the 'space bear' that there are three organizations in space monitoring Earth: one preserving Earth as a nature park, another seeking to intervene in human suffering, and a third, 'Yoblarkulturen,' which aims to enhance human life values through 'kissing practices' and meditation.

The article notes that these extraterrestrial beings are concerned about conditions on Earth. Hansen is also the founder of the UFO-foreningen UFOK (UFO-confrontation). The article mentions that extraterrestrials influenced H.C. Andersen's writing and were involved in the creation of early Hollywood films, including 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.' The book reviewed is noted to be 107 pages and costs DKr. 65.

Article: Creationism in Peoria Schools

This section, contributed by Willy Wegner, details concerns raised by the Midwest Committee for Rational Inquiry (MCRI) and the Saint Louis Association for the Teaching of Evolution (SLATE) regarding the teaching of creationism in Peoria, Illinois public schools. Ken Ham, a propagandist for the Institute for Creation Research (ICR), had visited these schools. The article states that creationist books have been approved for use, and students are allowed to be absent during evolution lessons but not during creationist presentations. The author argues that this practice is unconstitutional, citing Supreme Court rulings like Edwards v. Aguillard (1987), which declared state-sponsored creationism teaching unconstitutional.

The article also provides contact information for Chester W. Dugger (Executive Director, High School Programs) and Francis Durin (President, Peoria School Board) for those wishing to express their views.

Article: James Randi's Visit to Norway

This piece introduces James Randi, a renowned magician, author, and skeptic, highlighting his efforts to expose paranormal hoaxes, particularly mentioning Uri Geller. Randi offers a $100,000 prize for anyone who can demonstrate a genuine paranormal phenomenon. The article notes that Randi's planned tour in Norway in 1988 was canceled but expresses hope for a future visit.

Article: More Strange Tracks in the Terrain: UFO in Vanylven?

This article reports on unexplained tracks found in the terrain near Blæjevatnet in Vanylven, Norway. A local resident, Age Olsen, discovered an area of over sixty meters long and eight meters wide that appeared to have been flattened. There were no signs of ice or stone, and it looked recent. The article dismisses the possibility of a landslide being the cause. Bjarne Sjåstad, Olsen's brother-in-law, mentioned seeing lightning make tracks but nothing as large as this. He also noted that stones were flattened or split, but without any traces of metal or other substances. The area is remote, making vehicle access unlikely. The article also mentions several strange light phenomena observed in the Syvde area in the preceding winter and spring. Geotechnician Bjørn Wivestad and meteorologist Dag Kvamme are consulted, with Kvamme suggesting lightning as a possible cause, though the scale of the phenomenon is unusual. A ufologist, Johannes Anonby, visited the site and collected samples, suggesting it could be the trace of a UFO. He also reported his watch stopping during the investigation, a phenomenon sometimes associated with UFO sightings.

Article: A Question of Time

This article by Willy Wegner discusses the 'New Age' movement, tracing its origins back to the 1930s and the magazine 'O.M.' It suggests that the current New Age trends are not new but rather a repackaging of older ideas. The author notes that many critical books on New Age are written from a Christian perspective, viewing it as a sign of anti-Christian forces. Danish books on the topic are also mentioned, including 'New Age – det falske paradis' and 'Hemmelig hjernevask: New Age, en ny verdensreligion.' The article points to various sources for New Age literature and notes that American skeptics predict the movement will soon be considered 'Old Age.'

Article: FAKTA - An Excellent Magazine, But Even the Best Can Err...

This section critiques an article in the magazine 'FAKTA' titled 'Slik virker akupunktur' (How Acupuncture Works). The author argues that the article presented ancient mystical beliefs and occult concepts about the body rather than scientific facts about acupuncture. It also mentions Kirlian photography of 'energy fields.' The critique emphasizes that the mechanisms of acupuncture are well-understood and have been covered in previous issues of 'NIB.' The article includes a comment from NIVFO, expressing concern that such content in a popular science magazine can mislead readers into mistaking it for science.

Reader's Letters: Døpte Katter - Suspended and Animal Memories

This section contains reader submissions. One letter reports on Pastor Matthias Pöhland in Germany being suspended for baptizing cats. Another letter from Knut Haugo on Voss, Norway, offers pet cremation services and a place in Norway's first pet memorial park. Per Knag from Morvikbotn submits two short anecdotes: one about his father dealing with a 'poltergeist' or 'bankeånden' (knocking spirit) in their cabin during a storm, and another about a farmer hearing strange sounds from his daughter's room, leading to a sighting of a white-clad figure that was shot at and disappeared, leaving behind a cloth resembling the Shroud of Turin.

Book Review: Willy Wegner - UFOer Over Danmark, Bind 2: 1965-1990

This is a review of Willy Wegner's second book, which covers the UFO movement in Denmark from 1965 to 1990. The reviewer praises Wegner's extensive research and engaging writing style, noting that the book is well-illustrated and provides citations. The book details significant UFO events and personalities in Denmark, including the 'great UFO wave,' the 'Orthon movement,' and 'police on UFO hunts.' The review highlights the book's readability and entertainment value, suggesting it is a valuable resource for understanding the UFO phenomenon in Denmark and potentially elsewhere.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, often with a skeptical or critical lens, as seen in the critique of the 'FAKTA' article and the discussion of James Randi. There is a clear interest in debunking pseudoscience and presenting rational explanations, while also acknowledging the existence of unexplained events. The coverage of creationism and the New Age movement reflects a critical stance towards non-scientific or religiously motivated claims. The inclusion of reader letters and anecdotal accounts adds a personal dimension to the exploration of these topics. The editorial stance appears to favor critical inquiry and scientific reasoning, while remaining open to the possibility of genuine mysteries.