1995 02 00 OMNI - Abductions

Magazine Overview

Title: OMNI
Issue Date: February 1995
Price: $3.50

This issue of OMNI magazine features a prominent cover story on "Star Trek: Launching Voyager," alongside articles exploring a UFO controversy involving abductees versus the military, and an examination of artificial intelligence. The cover also highlights a "$30,000 Treasure Hunt Inside."

Antimatter Section

UFO Update: Can This Marriage Be Saved?

This section delves into the impact of UFO abductions on marital relationships. Budd Hopkins, author of books on UFOs, notes that both husbands and wives of abductees can feel angry and unloved. Deb Hill describes her distress over the sexual activity and potential hybrid offspring resulting from her husband John's abductions, likening it to rape. She sought support from an abductee group run by historian and UFO author David Jacobs. Dr. Bill Cone, a psychologist, confirms that animosity and jealousy are common, leading to some divorces. Hopkins advises abductees to be cautious about publicizing their experiences to maintain spousal tolerance. Steve and Linda, despite not being on the rocks, find their marriage strained by Linda's alleged ET encounters and the media attention she receives. Jeff recounts how his ex-wife used his abductions as an excuse to leave him and is using them in a custody battle, fearing for their child's safety. Conversely, Deb Hill finds her marriage strengthened by her husband's trust in sharing his experiences.

Dr. Cone suggests that while many abductees are well-adjusted, some may suffer from identity disorders, making it difficult to distinguish reality from fantasy, which could contribute to marital problems regardless of abduction experiences.

Bio TV

Contrary to the common belief that TV is bad for you, Samsung Electronics is developing "bio-TV," which emits far-infrared rays claimed to enhance health. Studies at Seoul National University reportedly showed onions growing faster and goldfish and tadpoles living longer when exposed to this technology. M. W. Lee of Samsung expects viewers to benefit at normal viewing distances. However, experts like Professor William Glenn of Florida Atlantic University are skeptical, calling the claims exaggerated and noting that the infrared levels are low compared to natural sources like the sun. Glenn also dismisses concerns about conventional TV's X-rays, stating one would need to sit extremely close for hours to experience any physiological effect.

Swine Odor Task Force

North Carolina, the second-largest hog producer, has established a 27-member "Swine Odor Task Force" to address the pungent odor emanating from hog farms. Dr. Susan Schiffman of Duke University reports that people living downwind from these farms experience higher rates of depression and anxiety. Dr. Jon Ort of North Carolina State University explains that farms now house thousands of animals instead of hundreds, exacerbating the odor problem. The task force is exploring economically feasible solutions, such as dispersing odors high into the atmosphere or burning them to oxidize the odor-causing compounds. Hog farmers reportedly support these efforts to be good stewards of the environment.

The Truth About 13

Friday the 13th

Despite seeming illogical, the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th may have a basis in reality. A study of accident figures on a British superhighway showed a 50 percent increase in hospitalizations following crashes on this day. Researchers examined six Fridays the 13th over three years and found that while fewer people drove, there was a slight increase in supermarket shoppers, suggesting people were still venturing out. Thomas Scanlon, M.D., suggests that heightened anxiety on these days could reduce concentration, questioning if people's perceptions and beliefs are self-fulfilling.

Eyeball Magic

Research conducted by Marilyn Schlitz and Stephen LaBerge suggests that the phenomenon of feeling stared at might be real. In controlled lab studies, where an observer focused on a subject via video feed, the subject's galvanic skin response increased during 'staring' periods compared to non-staring periods. This effect was more pronounced when the individuals involved were of opposite sexes. Psychologist Ray Hyman expressed surprise, noting that such demonstrations usually fail under controlled conditions, but acknowledged that repeated attempts might yield positive results.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of OMNI magazine consistently explores the fringes of science, psychology, and popular culture. The articles touch upon unexplained phenomena (UFO abductions, psychic perception), technological advancements with potential health implications (bio-TV), and societal issues (environmental odor control, superstition). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting research and expert opinions on topics that challenge conventional understanding, while also acknowledging skepticism and the psychological dimensions involved. The magazine aims to inform readers about emerging trends and controversies in science and the paranormal.