NIVFO-Bulletin - 1994 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: NIVFO bulletin
Issue: 2/1994
Volume: 14. ARGANG
Date: February 1994
Publisher: NORSK INSTITUTT FOR VITENSKAPELIG FORSKNING OG OPPLYSNING (NIVFO)
Country: Norway
ISSN: 0800-0360
Price: 100,- NOK

This issue of NIVFO bulletin, a publication focused on scientific research and enlightenment, delves into various topics often associated with pseudoscience and the paranormal. The cover features a collage of images and headlines hinting at articles on Transcendental Meditation (TM), ufology, ghosts, and the work of skeptics like James Randi and Billy Meier. The main articles critically examine the TM movement, explore ufological considerations, and discuss the nature of paranormal phenomena.

Editorial

The editorial section, titled "redaksjonelt," recommends James Randi's book "Flim-Flam," translated into Norwegian as "Juks og Bedrag." The author praises Randi's sharp insight and commentary on paranormal claims, noting how Randi exposes fraudulent practices and the tendency of some researchers to cling to unfounded beliefs. The editorial encourages readers to purchase and promote the book, emphasizing its value for understanding the 'paranormal circus.'

TM Exposed

The article "TM avslørt" (TM Revealed) by Rune W. Dahlén provides a detailed critique of Transcendental Meditation (TM). It highlights TM's origins and its founder, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, born in Italy in 1911. The article traces TM's evolution from a spiritual movement to one that rebranded itself as a neutral relaxation technique, emphasizing "science" over spirituality in the late 1960s. Maharishi presented himself as a scientist and established "Maharishi universities."

Meditation and Mantras

Membership in TM involves learning a specific meditation technique and receiving a personal mantra. However, the article reveals that these mantras are not personalized but are assigned based on age from a limited list. A former TM teacher testified that students were led to believe the mantras were unique to them. The mantras are officially described as meaningless sound combinations, but internally, Maharishi refers to them as "God's holy name." Some advanced techniques involve mantras that are actually Hindu religious phrases.

Religious Initiation

New TM members undergo an "initiation" ceremony involving Sanskrit chanting. While TM claims this is not religious, Dahlén's analysis shows it includes invocations and worship of Guru Dev, classifying it as essentially a Hindu ceremony. The article points out that initiates are not informed that it is a religious practice.

Hierarchy and Levels

The TM organization is strictly hierarchical. Maharishi reportedly segregates people based on their titles, with the implication that "the capable should lead." Each level within TM has its own secrets, inaccessible to lower-level members. Dahlén's access to TM's secret writings allows him to reveal these esoteric aspects.

Levels of Consciousness

TM promises various "levels of consciousness," including "cosmic consciousness" (eternal satisfaction and love) and "divine consciousness" (where divine possibilities are fully expressed). The highest level, "oneness consciousness" (Brahman consciousness), suggests humans reach a divine level where they become one with God and can create matter from nothing.

Maharishi Effect and Levitation

In the 1970s, Maharishi introduced the "Maharishi Effect," claiming that if a certain percentage of the world's population meditated, it would reduce war and crime. He also proposed that TM meditators could be deployed by the UN for peacekeeping. The "Sidhi" courses, introduced in 1975, promised abilities like levitation, invisibility, and clairvoyance, with costs reaching 17,000 Krone in 1991. The article notes that while levitation is practiced by jumping on mats, actual demonstrations are rare. Former TM teachers explain that some abilities like invisibility were dropped due to side effects, while 'flying' (levitation) proved more successful.

Is TM Religion?

Dahlén emphasizes the hidden religious elements in TM, particularly its Hindu background. He suggests that TM avoids identifying as a religion for marketing purposes in the West, as "religion" for a Hindu is often equated with Western Christianity, which they wish to distance themselves from. Hinduism is seen as "Sanathana Dharma," the eternal law, encompassing all aspects of existence.

Maharishi's Return to India

Maharishi, deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, has defended the caste system and warned against mixing castes. In his later years, he focused on gaining acceptance within traditional Hinduism, establishing a Hindu monastic order within TM in 1977. He moved his operational center to an estate near Delhi in 1984. The article questions the future of the movement as its aging leader's influence wanes.

Other Articles Mentioned in Table of Contents

• TM AVSLØRT: (Covered above)
• UFOLOGISKE BETRAKTNINGER: (Ufological Considerations) - Likely discusses UFO sightings or theories.
• SPÅKVINNE OM 1994: (Fortune Teller about 1994) - Suggests an article on predictions for the year.
• Wings of Illusion: An article likely related to paranormal or pseudoscientific claims.
• SPØKELSER ER BARE GASS: (Ghosts are Just Gas) - A skeptical take on ghosts.
• FLERE "MIRAKLER": (More "Miracles") - Possibly a continuation or related to other paranormal claims.
• HOMEOPATI: An article on homeopathy.
• GELLER SKAL BETALE EN FORMUE: (Geller Shall Pay a Fortune) - Likely related to Uri Geller's claims or controversies.
• BILLY MEIER AVSLØRT: (Billy Meier Exposed) - An exposé on the UFO contactee Billy Meier.
• JAMES RANDI PÅ NORSK: (James Randi in Norway) - Likely about Randi's activities or lectures in Norway.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of NIVFO bulletin adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards pseudoscientific claims and New Age movements. The primary focus is on debunking the claims of Transcendental Meditation, exposing its religious underpinnings and questioning its purported scientific basis. The inclusion of articles on Uri Geller, Billy Meier, and the general discussion of ghosts and ufology, alongside the promotion of James Randi's skeptical work, indicates a consistent editorial line of promoting critical thinking and scientific scrutiny over unsubstantiated beliefs. The publication positions itself as a forum for critical examination of pseudoscience and literature.

This issue of NIB, dated 1/1994, features a collection of articles exploring ufology, belief systems, and scientific explanations for phenomena often attributed to the supernatural. The main articles delve into the critical views of ufologist John A. Keel, analyze the psychological underpinnings of belief in 'Wings of Illusion' by John F. Schumaker, and offer a scientific perspective on ghostly apparitions.

Ufologiske betragtninger (Ufological Considerations) by Willy Wegner

This article presents Willy Wegner's summary and commentary on the work and views of journalist and author John A. Keel, who has extensively studied the UFO phenomenon. Keel, whose real name is Alva John Kiehle, has written numerous books and articles on the subject. Initially interested in UFOs, Keel quickly dismissed the hypothesis of non-terrestrial origins, finding a stronger connection to psychic phenomena. This perspective was not well-received by mainstream ufology in the late 1960s.

Keel believes that after forty years, American ufology has proven to be a failure, leading to obscurity for its followers. He criticizes the state of UFO research in the USA, stating that no one has addressed the 'real' UFO problem. He mentions the Condon report as a missed opportunity, where psychologists were involved but their results were not published. Keel suggests that a psychological study of 'UFO advocates' – those who champion the UFO cause – is needed.

Keel distinguishes between genuine witnesses of UFOs (unknown flying objects) and the self-appointed hobby ufologists who exploit these witnesses. He notes that by the late 1980s, there were fewer than 100 active ufologists in the USA, many of whom were involved in conspiracy theories about government cover-ups. He describes a lack of defined parameters, methodology, and leadership, resulting in an intellectual vacuum. Keel asserts that even stamp or teddy bear collectors are better organized than these ufologists, and that serious UFO research requires a complete reset.

He controversially states that 'Ufology is not, and never will be, a science. Instead, it has developed into a pedantic theology complete with rituals and pilgrimages.' He refers to the 'unholy 100' active US ufologists as reciting dogmas unconsciously, brainwashed by their own writings and collected newspaper clippings.

In contrast, Keel holds European ufology in higher regard. He finds European ufologists to be better educated, more logical, and having moved beyond merely collecting clippings. He cites Scandinavian UFO-Information (SUFOI) as a positive example of how ufology can be conducted without falling into a 'save-the-world' syndrome, contrasting it with groups like IGAP, associated with Adamski's teachings.

The 1980s, according to Keel, were marked by hoaxes like the Gulf Breeze case, the Roswell incident, the MJ-12 documents, and various conspiracy theories. He notes that European UFO research in the 1980s, while influenced by the US, was characterized by greater skepticism and self-criticism, leading to the debunking of many past claims. He believes European organizations have adopted more systematic methods, aiming for 'serious ufology.'

He observes that American ufologists, reacting to rabid skeptics, have become entrenched and have failed to innovate. Keel suggests that American UFO research was 'flushed down the toilet' in 1989 and will take years to recover, questioning if there is even a need for it.

References are provided for John Keel's article in UFO Brigantia and 'The Encyclopedia of UFOs'.

Wings of Illusion by John F. Schumaker (Review)

This section reviews John F. Schumaker's book 'Wings of Illusion,' with the review originally appearing in Australian Skeptics Inc. Newsletter and being broadcast on ABC Radio National. The reviewer, John Wren-Lewis, notes that while the title might suggest salacious content, the book is actually a profound exploration of the human psyche. Schumaker, a psychologist, argues that a fundamental human need, more potent than sexual drive, is the impulse to believe in the supernatural, paranormal, or hidden meanings in life. This belief system serves as a defense against the existential fear of death.

Schumaker posits that this 'illusionary' tendency is a crucial evolutionary mechanism that allows human intelligence to function without being paralyzed by the awareness of mortality. He contrasts this with Freud's view of religion as a childish fantasy and argues that belief systems, whether religious or spiritual, can lead to greater happiness, balance, and creativity, a concept that aligns with Carl Jung's ideas and has gained empirical support.

The reviewer highlights Schumaker's argument that this drive for illusion is not mere delusion but a necessary psychological tool. He suggests that while skeptics often criticize religious or paranormal beliefs as foolish, Schumaker's analysis is more sophisticated. Schumaker's work is presented as a challenge to both skeptics and believers to confront the implications of this fundamental human need and its role in confronting mortality.

The review touches upon Ernest Becker's ideas, suggesting that our capacity for illusion was developed as a protective measure against the overwhelming realization of death. Schumaker's book is seen as urging readers to examine the logic of their beliefs and the potential consequences of disillusionment, while also acknowledging the potential for such beliefs to lead to negative outcomes or even societal harm.

Schumaker's work is presented as a significant contribution to understanding the human condition, particularly in its confrontation with death and the role of belief in navigating this existential challenge.

Prophecies for 1994

This short piece, attributed to 'Volven' and sourced from Avisa Trondheim, presents a series of predictions for 1994. These include:

• Norwegian Foreign Minister Johan Jørgen Holst taking a convalescent trip to Iceland in 1994, setting an international precedent for politicians seeking health benefits from Icelandic hot springs.
• Swedish King Carl Gustav and Queen Silvia considering divorce in 1994 due to embarrassing revelations from a Swedish supermodel's memoir.
• A total ban on fishing in the North Sea.
• Volvo seeking a merger with BMW after a failed attempt with Renault.
• Iceland's Foreign Minister Jan Baldvin Hanibalsson resigning early in the year.
• Nordic countries collectively negotiating with the USA and Russia regarding future nuclear weapon policies.
• The European Community (EF) demanding clarification from the USA on its defense commitments in Europe, with the US responding that Europe must handle its own problems.
• A scientific explanation for the intelligence of Icelanders and other fish-eating nations, attributed to vitamin B-12 found in fish and sheep offal.
• The USA and Russia agreeing to build a joint space station capable of housing 100 astronauts.

Man-Made UFOs

This brief report describes an incident where 25 Scottish children believed they had been visited by a UFO in a sandbox in Glasgow. The 'UFO' turned out to be a panel from the fuselage of a Boeing 757 that had detached during takeoff. Investigations revealed the panel was not properly screwed on, a problem found in 75% of other British aircraft of the same type.

Spøkelser er bare litt gass (Ghosts are just a little gas)

This article presents a scientific explanation for the phenomenon of luminous, ghost-like apparitions observed in marshes and churchyards, which have historically been attributed to ghosts. German chemists Günter Gassmann and Dieter Glindemann from the biological institute in Helgoland, Hamburg, propose that these phenomena are caused by easily ignitable gases like metan, phosphine, and diphosphine. Previously, it was thought that ghosts might arise from the spontaneous ignition of metan, but the formation of diphosphine, which is known to ignite spontaneously in air, had not been proven.

Gassmann and Glindemann found diphosphine and phosphine in the intestines and feces of cattle, pigs, and humans. Culturing intestinal contents from humans under anaerobic conditions showed increased diphosphine production, leading them to conclude that microorganisms in the gut are responsible. They posit that similar microorganisms in decaying organic matter in marshes and churchyards produce diphosphine, which then ignites spontaneously upon contact with air, creating the luminous effects mistaken for ghosts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of belief, skepticism, and scientific inquiry. It critically examines the field of ufology, highlighting its perceived lack of scientific rigor and its psychological dimensions. The review of Schumaker's book reinforces the theme of belief as a psychological coping mechanism, particularly in the face of mortality. The article on ghostly apparitions offers a rational, scientific explanation for phenomena often relegated to the supernatural. The inclusion of prophecies suggests an interest in the future and the nature of prediction. The overall stance appears to be one of critical analysis, favoring evidence-based explanations while acknowledging the complex psychological factors that drive belief in the extraordinary.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated November 1993 (with some content referencing events up to October 1993 and early 1994), focuses on debunking paranormal claims and critically examining pseudoscientific practices. The cover headline, 'flere «mirakler»' (more 'miracles'), introduces a section detailing 'experiments' from Premanand's 'Miraculous List,' alongside in-depth discussions on homeopathy and exposes of prominent figures in the UFO and paranormal communities.

Premanand's 'Miraculous List' Experiments

The issue presents three 'experiments' from Premanand's 'Miraculous List,' framed as demonstrations of extraordinary abilities.

Experiment 132: Fire-Breathing Illusion

This experiment aims to simulate fire-breathing. It involves dipping a jute thread in a potassium nitrate solution, letting it dry, and then igniting one end. The thread is then wrapped in cotton and placed in the mouth. By exhaling forcefully, the illusion of flames and sparks is created. The instructions emphasize keeping the mouth moist and removing the equipment discreetly if it becomes too hot, with a warning not to inhale.

Experiment 133: Number Revelation

This trick allows the performer to 'reveal' a number thought of by a person. Numbers 1 through 9 are written on a white card with soap. After a person chooses a number, ash is rubbed over the card, making the chosen number appear.

Experiment 134: Reading a Sealed Envelope

This demonstration involves a person writing a problem on a card and sealing it in an envelope. The performer, after concentrating, claims to read the problem. The required equipment includes a white card the size of the envelope and a thick envelope. The method involves placing the hand, moistened with ether from a cotton ball, over the envelope and 'reading' the card. The ether is said to evaporate without a trace.

Homeopathy: A Critical Examination

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to a critical analysis of homeopathy, tracing its origins and principles.

Origins and Principles

Homeopathy was founded in Europe in the late 18th century by German physician Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843). Frustrated with the harsh medical practices of his time, Hahnemann developed the 'law of similars,' which suggests that substances causing symptoms in healthy individuals can cure similar symptoms in the sick. The term 'homeopathy' derives from Greek words meaning 'similar suffering.' Early practitioners conducted 'provings' by administering herbs, minerals, and other substances to healthy people and meticulously recording the observed symptoms, compiling these into extensive 'materie medika' reference books.

The 'Law of Infinitely Small'

Hahnemann believed that disease represents a disruption of the body's self-healing ability, requiring only a small stimulus to initiate recovery. He initially used small doses of accepted medicines but later advocated for extreme dilutions. He proposed the 'law of the infinitely small,' suggesting that smaller doses yield greater effects. This principle is presented as the opposite of what pharmacologists have proven. The article argues that if this were true, every substance would leave an 'essence' in water molecules, causing unpredictable effects.

Dilution and Avogadro's Number

The process of homeopathic preparation involves serial dilutions, often using distilled water or alcohol, followed by vigorous shaking. Dilutions are denoted by 'X' (1:10) or 'C' (1:100). The article notes that most modern homeopathic preparations range from 6X to 30X. According to chemical laws, there is a limit to how much a substance can be diluted before it disappears entirely. This limit, related to Avogadro's number (6.023 x 10^23), corresponds to homeopathic dilutions of 12C or 24X. The author points out that even Hahnemann admitted that no molecule of the original substance would remain after such extreme dilutions. He attributed the supposed healing effect to an 'ethereal' essence left by the shaking process, which he claimed could reactivate 'vital forces.' The author dismisses this idea as 'utter nonsense.'

Historical Context and Decline

Homeopathic remedies were initially adopted because they were perceived as less harmful than contemporary orthodox medicine. However, as medical science and education advanced, homeopathy's popularity declined significantly, particularly in America.

Lack of Serious Research

The article asserts that because homeopathic preparations contain no measurable active ingredients, it is impossible to verify their contents. Unlike most drugs, few homeopathic remedies have been rigorously tested. A 1990 review in the 'Review of Epidemiology' analyzed 40 randomized trials comparing homeopathic treatment with conventional and placebo treatments. The review concluded that most trials had fundamental flaws, and only one reported a positive result. The authors inferred that there is no evidence homeopathy offers any significant benefit beyond a placebo.

Homeopathy in the EU

In September 1992, the EU Council of Ministers adopted new guidelines for homeopathy. These require homeopathic products to be labeled with the text 'Homeopathic medicinal product without approved therapeutic indications.' Member states were mandated to implement these guidelines into national law by January 1, 1994.

Legal Battles and Exposes

The issue also covers legal disputes and investigations into paranormal claims.

Uri Geller vs. James Randi

The legal case between Uri Geller and James Randi has progressed. Judge Stanley S. Harris has ordered Geller to pay 700,000 KR in legal costs to CSICOP as compensation. The case began in 1991 when Geller sued CSICOP and Randi for $100 million after Randi exposed him as a fraud. The court's initial ruling stated that CSICOP could not be held responsible for Randi's statements. The current ruling orders Geller to pay a larger sum in damages, based on the principle that individuals should not be prosecuted without good cause or for revenge. Geller's request for the court to reconsider the verdict was rejected by Judge Harris. Geller has not yet paid, and CSICOP has asked the judge to ensure payment.

Billy Meier UFO Photos Exposed

Karl Korff has revealed that Billy Meier, known for his elaborate UFO photographs from Switzerland, was involved in a hoax. Korff infiltrated Meier's organization and obtained video evidence. Korff's skepticism began after reading Meier's claims in the book 'UFO Contact from the Pleiades.' By the early 1980s, Korff was attempting to expose Meier. He found neighbors who had witnessed Meier creating UFO photos using small models, sometimes suspended from helium balloons. Korff was reportedly editing a video about his findings, expected to be available in 1994.

James Randi's 'Flim-Flam' Book

The Norwegian translation of James Randi's book 'Flim-Flam' is highlighted. The book's publication in the US was an 'adventure,' with initial print runs significantly reduced and quickly selling out. Randi notes that books on the paranormal are surprisingly profitable for publishers. He receives numerous requests for the book from individuals and libraries worldwide, with teachers seeking bulk discounts for use as supplementary reading. Randi believes the book's popularity stems from its rational and skeptical approach to supernatural and paranormal phenomena, a topic with limited coverage in a similar vein.

Randi's Visits to Norway

James Randi has visited NIVFO (Norwegian Society for Parapsychology Research) in Trondheim twice, in Easter 1991 and Autumn 1993, primarily to promote the organization. He was scheduled to visit NIVFO in Oslo in the late 1980s but had to cancel. The book 'Flim-Flam' covers topics such as fraud, the Bermuda Triangle, UFOs, Transcendental Meditation, Erich von Däniken, psychic phenomena, Uri Geller, biorhythm scams, Filipino healers, and dowsing. The magazine encourages readers to obtain the book and request it at local libraries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, the exposure of pseudoscientific practices like homeopathy, and the legal and investigative efforts to debunk alleged phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking and scientific evidence, actively promoting the work of skeptics like James Randi and Karl Korff, and highlighting the lack of empirical support for homeopathy and other paranormal assertions. The magazine positions itself as a source of information for those interested in the rational examination of extraordinary claims.