Pursuit - No 17 - Vol 05 No 1 - 1972

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 5, No. 1
Date: January, 1972
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained
Tagline: "SCIENCE IS THE PURSUIT OF THE UNEXPLAINED"

This issue of PURSUIT, the journal of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, presents a diverse range of articles exploring phenomena that lie outside conventional scientific understanding. The content spans ufology, physics, biology, anthropology, and ontology, reflecting the society's broad mandate.

Organization and Participation

The Society is structured with a Board of Trustees and a Governing Board managing its legal and financial affairs. An Executive Board handles general administration, and a Scientific Advisory Board comprises prominent scientists. Membership runs from January 1st to December 31st, with subscriptions including the quarterly journal PURSUIT and access to the Society's library and files. The journal itself is also available via subscription without full membership benefits. The Society also acts as a consultative body for specific projects.

Notices

Due to increased resident staff and incomplete living quarters, overnight accommodation for visitors is no longer available. Members are welcome to visit the files but must apply a week in advance. The Society does not offer services to non-members and explicitly states that any opinions expressed in its publications are those of the authors alone and do not represent the corporate views of the Society. The mailing list is only available to resident staff.

Publications

PURSUIT is published quarterly, serving as a diary of current events and a commentary on reports. The Society also issues an annual report, Occasional Papers, and Special Reports for Fellows. The journal began as a newsletter in July 1965 and evolved into its current quarterly format starting with Vol. 2, No. 1 in January 1969. Back issues are available.

Contents

The issue features a wide array of articles:

• The Taxonomy of Knowledge: An overview of organized knowledge, categorizing it into tangibles and intangibles, and further dividing it into major departments like Geology, Biology, Anthropology, Mental Concepts, and Mathematics.
• Editorial: The Noemasphere: Discusses the concept of the 'noemasphere' (idea-environment) and argues that the pollution of belief by error and intentional deception is the primary environmental problem facing humanity, hindering true understanding.
• Ufology:
• "ADC and UFO" by William B. Stoecker: A personal account of UFO investigation within the U.S. Air Force, detailing the author's disillusionment with the military's handling of reports and the limitations of radar detection.
• "Chaos and Confusion": This section includes a report on the "Ringing Rocks" phenomenon, detailing experiences of disorientation and unusual sensory effects reported by visitors.
• Physics:
• "Fire Walking" by Robert J. Durant: Explains the phenomenon of fire walking, attributing it to the Liedenfrost effect, where a layer of water vapor insulates the feet from the extreme heat of the coals.
• Astronomy:
• "A Tenth Planet - Or an Eleventh?"
• "Water on the Moon"
• Biology:
• "The Hominidae and the Troglodytidae" by B. F. Porshnev
• "That New Zealand Sea Monster"
• "On Evolution" by Ivan T. Sanderson
• "Black Pumas"
• "The "What's-It" from South Dakota"
• Anthropology:
• "Light Wheels and Holograms That Use Acoustical Radiation" by Robert J. Durant
• "Cultural Expansion: Which Way?"
• "Food for Thought"
• Departments: "Department of Loose Ends", "Current Pursuits", "Members' Forum", and "Book Reviews".

Editorial: The Noemasphere

In his editorial, Ivan T. Sanderson critiques the modern information environment, highlighting a pervasive "mendacity" and a lack of true understanding. He posits that the "noemasphere," or the collective belief system, is a crucial factor in human survival. The pollution of this noemasphere by misinformation, error, and intentional deception is seen as a grave threat. Sanderson calls for an uncompromising adherence to truth, likening the situation to organisms with faulty genetic memories becoming extinct.

Ufology: ADC and UFO

William B. Stoecker recounts his experiences as a UFO investigator in the Air Force's Air Defense Command (ADC) from 1965 to 1968. He describes the shift in UFO investigation policy from an intelligence function to a research and development responsibility. Stoecker expresses deep disillusionment with the military's handling of UFO reports, calling it a "farce." He explains the limitations of radar in detecting UFOs and details a specific incident in 1967 where unidentified objects moving at high speeds were detected near Kincheloe AFB. His attempts to follow up on this sighting were met with a lack of cooperation and records from other Air Force personnel. He also notes a pattern of UFO sightings in the northern Michigan area and speculates about possible submerged UFO activity in the vast lake regions of Canada. The article concludes with a recollection of a conversation with Major General Jensen, then Vice Commander of ADC, who expressed the importance of studying UFOs.

Chaos and Confusion: The Ringing Rocks

This section details unusual phenomena reported by visitors to the "Ringing Rocks" site at Upper Black Eddy, Pennsylvania. Member #944 describes experiencing severe disorientation, a 180° reversal of directional sense, and confusion after visiting the site. These effects were temporary but recurred on subsequent visits. A later, unannounced family visit to the site resulted in similar, though varied, reactions from his mother, aunt, and father, including feelings of cold, fright, dizziness, nausea, and palpitations. The article notes that while geological explanations exist, they do not account for these reported psychological and physiological effects. Investigations, including radiation checks, have not yielded a definitive explanation. The author mentions peculiar difficulties experienced by camera-men and a balscope, and notes that a "Caution" symbol appeared on aeronautical charts near the site in 1970.

Physics: Fire Walking

Robert J. Durant explains the phenomenon of fire walking, debunking the notion that it is supernatural. He clarifies that the process is accomplished through a natural phenomenon known as the Liedenfrost effect. When water on the soles of the feet comes into contact with extremely hot coals (around 400-500° C), it creates a layer of water vapor that acts as an insulator, preventing burns. The article emphasizes that the coals must be white hot and free of ash to maintain the necessary temperature for the effect to occur. The editor's notes add that this effect is also utilized in other contexts, such as by plumbers sealing leaks and in some traditional 'trials by ordeal'.

Anthropology and Other Topics

Other articles in the issue touch upon various subjects:

• Anthropology: "Light Wheels and Holograms That Use Acoustical Radiation" by Robert J. Durant explores potential technological applications. "Cultural Expansion: Which Way?" and "Food for Thought" offer commentary on societal and cultural trends.
• Biology: Articles discuss the Hominidae and Troglodytidae, a New Zealand sea monster, evolution, black pumas, and a mysterious "What's-It" from South Dakota.
• Astronomy: Brief mentions of a potential tenth or eleventh planet and the presence of water on the Moon.

Departments and Correspondence

The issue includes regular sections like "Department of Loose Ends," "Current Pursuits," "Members' Forum," and "Book Reviews." A "More Classic Correspondence" section features a letter from a student seeking information and a humorous critique of a query about Ivan Sanderson's work.

The Hazzards of Publishing

A brief, satirical piece from The New Scientist highlights the absurdity of a report about fitting swans with signets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PURSUIT revolve around the investigation of unexplained phenomena, the critical examination of information and belief systems, and the application of scientific inquiry to subjects often dismissed by mainstream science. The editorial stance, particularly in the "Noemasphere" piece, emphasizes the importance of truth, accurate knowledge, and critical thinking in navigating a world saturated with misinformation. The journal appears to champion an open-minded yet rigorous approach to understanding the unexplained, encouraging members to contribute data and observations.

This issue of PURSUIT, dated February 2, 1971, under the section V. ASTRONOMY, delves into a variety of intriguing and speculative topics, ranging from celestial bodies and lunar phenomena to evolutionary biology, cryptozoology, and advanced technology.

A TENTH PLANET? OR AN ELEVENTH?

The lead article discusses the possibility of a tenth or even eleventh planet in our solar system. It references a theory from November 18, 1971, by AP, suggesting that British and U.S. astronomers are investigating minute irregularities in Neptune's motion as potential evidence for another planet. While acknowledging this as a 'dubious possibility,' the scientists are reportedly sifting through numerous photographs. The article humorously questions how astrologers will incorporate any newly discovered planets into their interpretations, noting that Pluto, discovered in 1930, was not even suspected before 1850.

WATER ON THE MOON

This section reports on a significant discovery concerning the Moon. For years, scientists largely considered the Moon to be arid. However, following the Apollo 11 mission, instruments left on the lunar surface detected water vapor erupting like geysers through cracks. This phenomenon, consisting of 99% water vapor, covered a vast area and lasted for approximately 14 hours, accompanied by minor moonquakes. While scientists agree it is water vapor, they are uncertain about its location and form. One unidentified scientist speculates that volatile matter might be trapped deep within the Moon, slowly working its way to the surface, potentially representing the 'last belches of the moon's vulcanism.' The article suggests this discovery could bring the 'Luna City' of science-fiction writers closer to reality and includes a lighthearted cartoon about aliens left behind after the Moon landing.

THE HOMINIDAE AND THE TROGLODYTIDAE*

This is a reprint of a paper by B. F. Porshnev, Director of a department at the Institute of History of the USSR Academy of Sciences. The paper examines the antiquity of the Hominidae and their classification among higher primates. It revisits the 1866-1868 hypothesis of Haeckel and Vogt regarding an 'ape-man' or 'man-ape' as a link between apes and humans, a concept initially proposed by Linnaeus. Porshnev notes that Darwin tacitly dismissed this, and Dubois attempted to substantiate it. The author argues for reviving this idea, suggesting that the current classification of fossil forms is problematic. Porshnev proposes that the family Hominidae should strictly include only Homo sapiens, with other bipedal higher primates belonging to the family Troglodytidae (or Pithecanthropidae). He details genera within Troglodytidae, including Australopithecus, Meganthropus, Pithecanthropus, and Troglodytus (Palaeanthropus), and discusses their evolutionary divergence from the Pongidae family in the Miocene and Pliocene periods. Porshnev emphasizes that the defining characteristic of Hominidae is the presence of brain formations enabling speech, distinguishing them from other primates.

THAT NEW ZEALAND SEA MONSTER

This brief report mentions a $10,000 reward offered by organizers of a frog-jumping contest in Christchurch, New Zealand, for the capture of a 'sea monster' described as similar to a huge frog, as claimed by Japanese fishermen. The article notes that Reuters reported this, and that the description was vague. Two possible explanations are offered: a dugong (a sirenian related to the Manatee) or an Elephant Seal, both of which inhabit Australian waters and could potentially reach New Zealand. The article concludes that unless something extraordinary occurs, the story might be a publicity stunt for the contest.

ON EVOLUTION

Written by Ivan T. Sanderson, this section critically examines the concept of evolution and survival of the fittest. Sanderson quotes T. Murray Smith from 'The Nature of the Beast,' questioning how 'prehistoric idiots' like the Black Rhinoceros survive if only the fittest prevail. Sanderson, while supporting the general notion of evolution as a natural process, finds that the 'survival' aspect is not fully explained by natural selection alone. He suggests that 'chance' plays a significant role, allowing many seemingly inefficient animals to survive. The author also touches upon the rapid development of mankind and culture, which he finds puzzling, and hints at archaeological 'horrors' that are often ignored or explained away.

BLACK PUMAS

This section addresses the phenomenon of melanism in pumas (cougars, panthers, mountain lions). The magazine had previously requested information and has received enough to indicate that black pumas are widespread and possibly increasing. The article cites 'Puma' by Stanley P. Young and Edward A. Goldman, which mentions a specific case of a black puma killed in Brazil in 1843 and vague references to South American specimens. Victor H. Cahalane's 'Mammals of North America' is also cited, noting that black cougars are known and that Florida cougars seem to exhibit this color variation. The primary source of information is Bruce S. Wright, Director of the Northeastern Wildlife Station, who is writing a revised edition of his book 'The Ghost of North America.' Wright's research indicates that while no black specimens of Felis concolor have been collected in North America, they are reported in northeastern North America, with approximately 7% in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. He dismisses theories of backlight or wet fur as explanations for the black appearance. A table details 20 black pumas seen in daylight in New Brunswick, Quebec, and Nova Scotia between 1951 and 1970. The article also briefly mentions claims of black Clouded Leopards in Borneo and black jaguars from the Guyana Massif, and includes a subscriber's anecdote about hunting Bengal tigers in Honduras.

LIGHT WHEELS AND HOLOGRAMS THAT USE ACOUSTICAL RADIATION

Authored by Robert J. Durant, this article explores the phenomenon of 'wheels of light' and connects it to emerging technologies. Durant suggests that technical developments can provide analogies for explaining anomalous phenomena. He discusses the 'wheels of light,' described as spokes radiating from a central hub, often observed by mariners. Initial speculation linked them to the microorganism Noctiluca milliares or mating whales. However, Durant introduces a patent for an 'Apparatus for Constructing a Hologram Using Acoustical Radiation' by Kendall Preston, Jr. This device uses sound waves to create three-dimensional photographs (holographs) of the interior of solid objects, making opaque objects appear almost transparent. Durant posits that this technology could explain the 'wheels of light,' suggesting that powerful sound beams might be used to observe processes deep underwater, possibly related to shielded machinery like nuclear power plants. He notes that while the patent offers a technological explanation, the appearance of these lights over centuries suggests a motive beyond simple exploration.

CULTURAL EXPANSION: WHICH WAY?

This section, likely written by the editor, challenges the traditional view of cultural diffusion originating solely from Mesopotamia and the Tigris-Euphrates Valley. It discusses how radio-carbon dating initially seemed to support the theory that culture spread from the East. However, new studies correlating carbon-14 data with tree-ring counts (specifically from California Bristlecone Pine) suggest that civilization may have begun in northern Europe and spread to the Mediterranean. Colin Renfrew, a senior lecturer at the University of Sheffield, is cited as a key figure in this revised theory. The article also touches upon the enigmatic megalithic monuments like Stonehenge and Maes Howe, noting their astronomical functions and the ongoing debate about their dating and origins. It mentions the possible influence of Myceneans on Stonehenge and the vandalism of Maes Howe. The author also references Otto Muck's theories about Cheops and a light-skinned European influencing the Egyptian calendar, suggesting a possible northern European connection. The section concludes by proposing that the rapid development of Man and Culture might be explained by factors beyond current understanding, possibly involving extraterrestrial influence or advanced biological techniques, as speculated by an IBM employee and pilot.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

A gentleman who works for IBM and is a professional pilot offers a speculative hypothesis about interstellar travel and the development of civilizations. He proposes that interstellar travel would be feasible, leading developing planets to migrate as needed. This abundance of planets would foster diverse intelligent beings but eventually lead to resource scarcity. To address this, an expedition would seek out a nascent civilization on a remote planet and use advanced biological techniques to accelerate its development in a controlled 'experiment,' inducing 'disasters' and 'want' to study growth. The hypothesis concludes with the startling suggestion that 'we were that planet,' implying humanity's development was an artificial experiment. The author notes that this speculation aligns with the persistent questions surrounding the rapid development of Man and Culture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PURSUIT are the exploration of the unknown, the questioning of established scientific and historical paradigms, and the speculative interpretation of phenomena. The magazine exhibits a clear stance of open-mindedness towards unconventional theories, whether they involve extraterrestrial influences, hidden lunar secrets, or revised anthropological timelines. There is a consistent effort to connect disparate pieces of information, from astronomical anomalies to biological oddities and technological advancements, under a broad umbrella of forteana and unexplained mysteries. The editorial tone encourages readers to consider possibilities beyond mainstream explanations and to engage in critical thinking about the nature of reality and human origins.

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: 19
Volume: III
Date: October 1971
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of PURSUIT magazine, under the heading "DEPARTMENT OF LOOSE ENDS," addresses a variety of reader inquiries and ongoing investigations into unexplained phenomena, ranging from cryptozoology and historical scientific experiments to astronomical mysteries and fortean correlations.

Department of Loose Ends

The "Department of Loose Ends" tackles several intriguing topics. The staff is still seeking an article on an Indian non-rusting pillar from "Czechoslovak Chemical Communications." A reader notes that dinosaur three-toed prints do not match those of a specific specimen known as "Old Three-Toes" but do match those of penguins. Another point raised is that adult alligators in the U.S. can grow up to 19 feet, contrasting with a historical newspaper account of a 28-foot Mississippi alligator. A photograph from the October 1971 issue is questioned, with one reader suggesting it looks like a fishnet with floats and an odd-shaped rock, though the presence of "spray" remains unexplained.

Andrew Crosse's Acari

Member #621 is campaigning on behalf of Andrew Crosse, an early 19th-century figure who allegedly created life using electrical currents. Crosse was ostracized in his time, and the "life" he created was described as "bugs." The campaign seeks to encourage scientific institutions to duplicate Crosse's experiments. However, responses from institutions have been dismissive, suggesting that the burden of proof lies with those proposing the experiment. The magazine encourages individual members to write to scientific organizations suggesting that Crosse's work be investigated, emphasizing that the definition of "Life" itself is still debated and that Crosse may have created it, thus deserving a hearing.

A Long Shot

Member #52 is investigating a potential correlation between magnetic storms and fortean phenomena, particularly poltergeist manifestations. While findings show a remarkable correlation, it is acknowledged as a "very long shot." The research requires data on magnetic storms (dates, intensity) and fortean phenomena (definite date of onset). Members willing to assist are invited to contact the society.

Members Forum

This section features special requests from members. Member #23607 seeks to connect with others in Connecticut to potentially form a chapter. Member #3909 in Texas wishes to correspond with members in his area. Member #3432 is looking for early books on UFOs predating 1956. A clarification is provided regarding the "thing" on the front of PURSUIT: it is a dog, the former trademark of Ivan Sanderson, now belonging to the society. An addition to the index of the October 1971 issue is noted: "Those Damned Vimanas Again", III:79.

Book Reviews

Correction: Odette Tchernine clarifies that she was raised in England and avoided reading Ivan T. Sanderson's work to maintain objectivity for her own writings.

John A. Keel. Our Haunted Planet. Greenwich, Conn.: Fawcett Publications, Inc. (Gold Medal Paperback). 75¢.
This book is reviewed as bordering on the fortean, dealing with the intangible aspects of unexplained mysteries. While the details in some cases are inaccurate or at variance with other accounts, the author's journalistic cadence is noted. The reviewer suggests that Keel's work, while less dogmatic than Charles Fort's, is terrifying to ufologists and others by quoting their own statements and presenting theories. The book is described as having a "horrible" general theory but is compelling, with the reviewer recommending it despite its lack of a bibliography and index, suggesting readers create their own.

Ivan T. Sanderson. The Mysterious West. New York: World Publishing Co. 1967. (Gift from member #23272).
Initially appearing outside the society's usual scope, the book is found to contain purely fortean chapters and is described as great fun. Although it lacks an index, this is deemed not disastrous. The epilogue is highlighted as priceless.

H. Y. Li and Sibley S. Morrill. I Ching Games. San Francisco: Cadleon Press. 1971. $5.95.
While not strictly fortean, this book offers a peculiar mental exercise valuable to forteans. It includes playing pieces for the Seven Game and the Fifteen Game. The reviewer notes it can be exasperating yet exhilarating and habit-forming. Ordering information is provided.

Norman Brennan. Flying Saucer Books & Pamphlets in English: A Bibliographical Checklist. $3.00.
This checklist is recommended for those interested in ufology, cataloging 390 books and pamphlets with a title index. Orders should be placed directly with Mr. Brennan.

Peter Kolosimo (trans. by A. D. Hills). Not of this World. London: Souvenir Press 1970. 1.75 (35s).
This book is described as odd, dealing with evidence of extra-terrestrial visitation, both direct and through manipulation of animals. It uses myths, legends, and tangible items but suffers from a lack of index and bibliography, making its references vague and often worthless. Despite these flaws, the reviewer believes the book is worth buying, advising readers to create their own index. A drawing of a Tardigrade is included, with a reference to Ivan Sanderson's "Things" for further information.

Peter Tomkins. Secrets of the Great Pyramid. New York: Harper & Row, 1971. $12.50.
This lavishly illustrated book is highly recommended for fortean libraries. It details the Great Pyramid's incorporation of mathematical constants (pi, Golden Section), its function as an almanac, theodolite, and astronomical observatory. The book analyzes modern surveys and scientific conclusions, discussing theories about the pyramid's purpose and construction. It highlights the work of Dr. Livio Catullo Stecchini on ancient measurements. The reviewer notes that while the pyramid is attributed to Cheops, there is no definitive proof, and its construction and purpose remain subjects of speculation, with the possibility of "outside influences" hinted at.

Alma V. Sanderson

A tribute to Alma V. Sanderson, who passed away on January 18, 1972, after a battle with cancer. A memorial fund is proposed to support the work of the Society. Her body was donated to medical research.

The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained

This section lists the Governing Board, Executive Board, and Scientific Advisory Board of the society, including names and affiliations of key personnel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent mystery of unexplained phenomena, the challenges of scientific investigation and validation (as seen with Andrew Crosse's work), the importance of historical records and member contributions, and the exploration of ancient mysteries like the Great Pyramid. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging members to contribute data and pursue investigations, while maintaining a critical yet appreciative approach to the literature and theories within the fortean and ufological fields. There is a strong emphasis on the value of detailed research, historical context, and the ongoing quest to understand the unexplained.