NIVFO-Bulletin - 1994 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of Folkvett, dated 4/93, focuses heavily on the topic of "falske minner" (false memories), with a prominent cover headline and several articles exploring this and related subjects. The magazine appears to be a Norwegian publication with a skeptical viewpoint, as indicated by its title and the content discussed.

False Memories and Therapeutic Practices

The lead article, "falske minner," discusses the phenomenon of False Memory Syndrome (FMS). It begins by mentioning that Randi presented on this topic in Trondheim, sparking significant interest. In March 1992, a group of prominent psychologists and psychiatrists, including members of CSICOP like Ray Hyman, formed The False Memory Syndrome (FMS) Foundation. This organization, headquartered in Philadelphia and led by Pamela Freyd, aims to combat what it sees as a growing epidemic of dubious therapies that are destroying families and harming patients. The article labels this the "mental health crisis of the 1990s."

The article traces the origins of the concept back to Sigmund Freud's early career and his extensive use of hypnosis. Freud was reportedly surprised by the number of hypnotized women who recalled memories of childhood abuse by their fathers. Later, Freud became convinced that most of these women were fantasizing. For over half a century, there was little discussion of incestuous child abuse. However, around 1980, the pendulum swung back, with more evidence emerging for actual child sexual abuse, leading to the conclusion that such abuse is far more common than previously believed.

A peculiar therapeutic trend emerged in the USA in the late 1980s, where poorly trained therapists, calling themselves "traumatists," began using techniques similar to Freud's, which he himself had later rejected. Across the country, these therapists used hypnosis, sometimes with drugs like sodium amytal, to guide patients towards recalling repressed sexual traumas from childhood. This phenomenon was termed "Decades Delayed Disclosure" (DDD). The article states that 80% of alleged DDD patients are women aged 25-45, with 60% of their parents having college backgrounds, and 25% holding higher degrees. Over 80% of these parents are still married to their first spouse.

A typical scenario described involves a woman in her thirties seeking treatment for symptoms like mild depression, anxiety, headaches, or weight issues. The therapist claims these symptoms stem from repressed childhood abuse. When the woman denies this, the therapist interprets it as further evidence of repression. Through hypnosis and suggestive questioning, the patient begins to form fragmented memories of shadowy figures abusing her. These memories become more vivid with constant prompting, and the patient eventually identifies the abuser as a parent or close relative. The more vivid the visions, the more convinced the patient and therapist become of their truth. However, experienced psychiatrists argue that detailed memories are a sign of fantasy, as genuine childhood memories are typically vague.

As these false memories become more convincing, the patient's animosity towards the alleged abuser grows, leading to confrontation and demands for legal redress. Parents are often stunned by these accusations and vehemently deny them. The therapist may then suggest that the parents have also repressed the memories. This often results in the family being torn apart, with a loved daughter becoming a bitter enemy.

The article emphasizes that while child abuse does occur, such incidents are rarely forgotten. It cites studies showing that children who witnessed a parent's murder did not forget the traumatic memory. In the past, convictions for child incest relied on corroborating evidence like photographs, diaries, or witness testimony. Today, juries are increasingly convicting parents based solely on memories planted by a therapist.

Patients and their families can be permanently harmed, believing that bringing repressed memories to light will resolve their issues. Instead, the traumatic rupture with loved ones often exacerbates their symptoms.

Furthermore, FMS can manifest in other ways, such as convincing victims that they participated in satanic rituals or were abducted by aliens and subjected to sexual abuse. Books about alien abductions receive significant media attention and financial success, with some recalling events from infancy or "past lives."

The article suggests that while some therapists may be charlatans motivated by money, many genuinely believe in FMS. It predicts the growth of the "incest memory industry" but also notes hopeful signs: women are beginning to sue therapists for implanting false memories, and prominent psychologists and psychiatrists are publishing works on the FMS epidemic. The source for this section is cited as The Skeptical Inquirer, no. 4/93, by Martin Gardner.

Angels and Their Historical Origins

Another article, "om engler" (about angels), explores the historical and cultural origins of the concept of angels. Contrary to the depiction of naked angels in Puccini's opera La Bohème, Christian angels have a distinct historical lineage. Ancient Sumerians believed the dead in the underworld were winged. The article posits that since gods had helpers, goddesses like Inanna were accompanied by winged beings from the underworld.

Biblical angels can appear as ordinary humans, necessitating caution when encountering strangers. Similarly, Greek gods resembled humans. The article argues that the depiction of Christian angels is directly based on the Greek figures of "Nike" or "Winged Victory." These "Victories" supported the Roman emperors, appearing on coins as winged figures presenting crowns of victory. Roman emperors were deified after death and wielded immense power. As Christianity grew and pagan gods receded, these "Victory figures" evolved into angels.

Some modern historians view these depictions on coins as propaganda. In northern regions where people were largely illiterate and lacked a monetary economy, coins were seen as valuable treasures. The article suggests that when people in these regions saw depictions of emperors with winged figures, they might have assumed their own deities, like Odin, also had such helpers. Odin's helpers were called "Valkyries," a type of Nike with a bird-human appearance.

Later Slavic kings were also portrayed as divinely supported, and after death, they were considered saints. Individuals with the ability to become invisible, achieve victory, or bring destruction or luck were highly respected in superstitious times. Angels were even used as diplomatic pretexts. For instance, Byzantine emperors seeking the secret of Greek Fire, a powerful weapon, were told by an angel to keep the secret hidden from everyone, lest they face divine punishment.

The source for this section is cited as Skeptical Briefs, no. 4/93, by Hugh H. Trotti of Georgia Skeptics.

Homeopathy and a Curious Case

A short piece titled "HØNS, BLEKKSPRUT OG HOMEOPATI" (Hens, Squids, and Homeopathy) discusses the homeopathic principle of "like cures like." It recounts an anecdote from a NIVFO informational article in 'VÅRT BLAD' about a farmer whose hen began laying shell-less eggs. A homeopath visited the farm and observed the hen behaving unusually, leaving its egg in a corner and showing no maternal care, which is described as atypical. The homeopath then administered Sepia, a medicine derived from squid ink, because the hen's behavior resembled that of a squid. According to the article, the treatment worked: the hen began laying eggs with shells again and regained its normal maternal instincts.

The author of this Folkvett piece expresses skepticism, questioning the use of a fairy tale as documentation for physical effects and noting that the homeopath did not specify the dilution of the medicine. The author sarcastically suggests trying to give a squid chalk, diluted, of course.

Short News Items (kort-nytt)

This section contains several brief news items:

• Fate Confirmed: According to Chinese folklore, health is influenced by astrology and birth year. Different birth years are associated with increased risk for specific diseases (e.g., "fire years" for heart disease, "earth years" for cancer, "metal years" for lung diseases). Sociologist David Phillips' study comparing mortality rates in California between people of Chinese and European descent found that folk beliefs acted as self-fulfilling prophecies. Chinese individuals with prognostically "bad" birth years died earlier from certain illnesses compared to those with "better" birth years. This effect was not observed in the European control group, suggesting negative prophecies can worsen prognosis, likely through psychosomatic mechanisms. The source is cited as Lancet, 6.11.93.

• World Light Center: This sect has gained significant media attention in Sweden. Based in Konga, Småland, its leader, a 65-year-old woman, claims direct contact with God and the ability to heal illnesses through faith. Several children, along with their parents, who visited the sect have reportedly been taken into social care due to physical and psychological mistreatment. Police investigations are ongoing. The source is cited as Dag 12. oktober 1993/Folkvett nr. 4/93.

• Scientologists' Empire: Scientologists often claim their drug rehabilitation organization, Narconon, is separate from the Church of Scientology. However, the article notes that Scientology's own book, "What is Scientology?" (1993), lists organizations like Freedom Magazine, the Committee for Human Rights, Criminon, and Narconon as Scientology-affiliated. Another related organization mentioned is "Riksförbundet för ett Drogfritt Sverige" (The Swedish Federation for a Drug-Free Sweden). The source is cited as Folkvett nr. 4/93.

• Cooperation Between Sects: The article questions what Jehovah's Witnesses, Scientologists, Children of God, and Moonies have in common. It reveals that these groups, among others, have formed a joint lobby organization in Strasbourg to influence the European Parliament. The source is cited as Fri-brevet nr. 2/93 /Folkvett nr. 4/93.

• The Horror School of Theosophy: Theosophy, associated with the late 19th-century New Age movement, is generally seen as more tolerant than many modern sects. However, an article in I DAG (18.8.93) revealed disturbing aspects of Theosophy in the 1910s. Lena Kronberg documented the harsh upbringing methods at the Theosophical school at Point Loma, California, which she researched using her grandfather's diaries and interviews with survivors. Children aged four to ten were sent from Sweden to be raised in the Theosophical spirit. Discipline was severe; children were given colored clothing to denote obedience or disobedience. Nighttime punishments included having blankets removed, and suspected masturbators were put in straitjackets. Sick children were kept from medical treatment and given homeopathic remedies. Parents were kept unaware of these practices, and children were prevented from seeing their parents for the first ten years of schooling, with their letters home being censored. The article notes the strong resemblances to modern sect movements. The source is cited as Folkvett, nr. 4/93.

• Question Marks at the Planetarium: Orthodox rabbis in Jerusalem have criticized Israel's planetarium. They assert that the universe was created 5753 years ago. The planetarium offers two types of tours: general tours state the universe is 15 billion years old, while tours for religious audiences say it was created "a long time ago." Even the latter formulation is unacceptable to the rabbis. The source is cited as BASIS, nov. 1993.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Folkvett revolve around skepticism towards phenomena often presented as factual or spiritual, including False Memory Syndrome, homeopathy, and various religious sects. The magazine critically examines claims made by these groups, often highlighting potential psychological manipulation, historical inaccuracies, or questionable scientific basis. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to debunk or at least question widely accepted or sensationalized beliefs. The focus on "falske minner" suggests a concern about the unreliability of memory and the potential for its manipulation, particularly within therapeutic contexts. The coverage of sects and alternative beliefs underscores a commitment to rationalism and a cautious approach to claims of supernatural or extraordinary phenomena.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated January 1994, focuses on the intersection of UFO phenomena, scientific investigation, and skepticism, with a significant portion dedicated to a critical examination of Qigong practices in China.

UFO Debate in the European Parliament

The magazine reports on a planned debate in the European Parliament concerning UFOs, which was initially scheduled for November 1993 but postponed to January 1994. The initiative came from Tullio Regge, an Italian socialist and atomic physicist, who had presented a report on UFO sightings and proposed the creation of a European UFO observation center. This center was intended to be managed by the EU Commission and supported by experts from the 12 member states. A proposal was made for the EU to assume the operation and funding of the French SEPRA institute in Toulouse, which is part of the French space administration CNES and has been led by Jean-Jacques Velasco. The article notes uncertainty about whether this takeover would alter SEPRA's stance on UFO phenomena. French UFO organizations expressed reservations, describing SEPRA as a 'black hole' from which little information emerges. The British newspaper Financial Times commented ironically, suggesting that the EU's attempts to communicate with extraterrestrial beings might be a way to compensate for difficulties in explaining its own policies to its citizens. Tullio Regge himself reportedly does not believe UFOs are related to extraterrestrial life but thinks the observations warrant further investigation. Ultimately, the debate was unanimously removed from the European Parliament's agenda at the last minute by political group leaders, with Guido Naets explaining that in the midst of severe economic crises and the war in Bosnia, discussing 'little green men' was inappropriate.

Qigong: A Critical Investigation

A substantial part of the magazine is dedicated to an investigation of Qigong, a Chinese practice presented on Norwegian TV without significant counterarguments. The article highlights that only a few people in Norway were aware that a team from CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) had visited China to conduct investigations.

Origins and Concepts of Qigong

Traditional Chinese medicine, from which Qigong stems, is rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy and cosmology, particularly Taoism. The Tao concept is described as enigmatic from a Western perspective, said to have existed before and created the universe, yet not referring to a deity or nature itself. The fundamental concept in traditional Chinese medicine is 'Qi' (pronounced 'Chee'), meaning vital breath or life force. Lao Tzu believed that the unimpeded flow of Qi through invisible meridians in the body sustains life and promotes harmony between Yin and Yang. Blockages in Qi flow lead to illness. Acupuncture aims to restore this flow. Qigong, meaning 'manipulation of Qi' (pronounced 'chee gung'), was developed by Lao Tzu as an art for both martial and therapeutic purposes. While Lao Tzu emphasized attention to the body, rest, and kindness for health, his followers introduced additional elements.

Paranormal Claims and Western Perceptions

Some Qigong practitioners claimed abilities such as seeing with ears, hearing with eyes, perceiving distant conversations, telekinesis, and starting fires with thought. This led to Qigong being associated with paranormal powers in modern Western terminology. Despite its limited medical significance in China until the 1950s, Qigong experienced a resurgence. However, it was suppressed during the Cultural Revolution (1966-76) as anti-Marxist and even witchcraft. Following the Cultural Revolution, a new era of intellectual freedom in China saw Qigong flourish again. To distance it from perceived Marxist conflicts, new terms like 'Extraordinary Functions of the Human Body' (EFHB) were introduced for its paranormal aspects. A 1981 film, 'Do You Believe?', showcased a 12-year-old boy who could allegedly break and mend matchsticks inside sealed boxes, similar to Uri Geller's spoon-bending feats, demonstrating EFHB in children across China.

CSICOP's Investigation in China

In 1988, a CSICOP team, including James Randi, visited Beijing at the invitation of Lin Xixin, editor of Science and Technology Daily. Their mission was to evaluate Qigong claims and give lectures. The investigation focused on psychic diagnoses, with one woman claiming to see inside people's bodies. Her claims were inaccurate, including miscounting pens in James Alcock's pocket. The main demonstration involved Qigong master Lu, who claimed to treat a woman's spinal condition. Lu's purported energy transfer from his fingertips was tested, but the woman's movements were found to be independent of his actions. The team concluded that Lu's movements followed the woman's, not the other way around. Another Qigong master and his 'psychic' sister also failed to demonstrate any verifiable abilities. The CSICOP team concluded that any apparent successes were no better than chance, and when 'successes' occurred, fraud was evident. The article recounts the 'matchstick miracle' where children allegedly broke and mended matchsticks in sealed boxes. However, under CSICOP's testing, the children failed. It was later revealed that the children were allowed to play outside with the boxes during the original 'tests,' and the 'miracle' was orchestrated by the child's father.

Lack of Scientific Knowledge

The article criticizes the Chinese researchers for either being mistaken about their methods, allowing subjects to control test conditions, believing the powers were self-evident, or misinterpreting random results as indicative of Qigong effects. It states that the researchers lacked knowledge of established Western research methodologies for human subjects and were easily misled by self-deception. The investigation's findings, detailed in James E. Alcock's report in 'Skeptical Eye' and 'Skeptical Inquirer', are presented as almost unbelievable to Western readers.

Ghost Hunt in England

A brief report from the Sunday Telegraph describes how Coutts and Co., a bank used by Queen Elizabeth, hired a ghost hunter, Eddie Burks, to deal with a 16th-century ghost. Burks, a retired engineer, identified the ghost as a lawyer beheaded for treason during Queen Elizabeth I's reign. The ghost was reportedly causing temperature drops. Burks claimed to have contacted the ghost's daughter, who then helped her father depart. The case was closed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO magazine adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards extraordinary claims, particularly evident in its detailed debunking of Qigong practices in China. While acknowledging the existence of UFO phenomena and the debate surrounding them, the magazine prioritizes scientific investigation and the exposure of potential fraud and self-deception. The editorial stance appears to be that claims of paranormal abilities, whether UFO-related or otherwise, require rigorous scientific scrutiny and are often explained by psychological factors, lack of controls, or deliberate deception. The inclusion of the ghost hunt report further reinforces this theme of investigating and often debunking unusual claims.