Pursuit - No 21 - Vol 06 No 1 - 1973

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 6, No. 1
Date: January, 1973
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, offers a diverse range of articles exploring phenomena often on the fringes of scientific acceptance. The cover features a stylized logo and essential publication details.

Organization and Participation

Page 2 details the organizational structure of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, including its Board of Trustees, Officers, Governing Board, Executive Board, Editorial Board, and Scientific Advisory Board. It outlines membership benefits, which include access to the Society's library and files, and the subscription rates for the journal PURSUIT. The Society also engages in contracted projects as a consultative body and bestows Fellowship by unanimous vote for outstanding contributions.

Notices inform members about the lack of overnight accommodation for visitors and emphasize that the Society does not hold or express corporate views, with opinions in publications belonging solely to the authors. The Society assures members that their mailing list is only available to resident staff.

Publications include the quarterly journal PURSUIT, annual reports, Occasional Papers, and Special Reports. The history of PURSUIT is traced back to a newsletter starting in July 1965, with the journal format beginning in June 1968 and adopting a regular quarterly schedule from Vol. 2, No. 1.

Contents Overview

Page 3 presents the table of contents, featuring a broad spectrum of topics:

• The Taxonomy of Knowledge: A detailed classification of knowledge.
• Editorial: "The Great Semantic Mess" by Ivan T. Sanderson.
• Ufology: Articles like "Can We Tick Off Another One?" and discussions on UFO reports.
• Chaos and Confusion: Including "The Mary Celeste" and "One of the PKs to the Fore."
• Chemistry: "Alleged Fallout-Free Water."
• Astronomy: "The Moons of Mars" and "Life on the Moon?" by Robert J. Durant.
• Geology: "The Mediterranean" and "On the Subject of 'Cold'."
• Biology: Various entries including "The Paraguayan 'Barking Snake'," "That New Very Human-Looking Skull," and "Giant Herbs."
• Anthropology: "'Yesu' of the Druids" and "A Linguistic Surprise."
• Other: "Metallic Balls from Here!", "More on Mercury Engines," "Department of Loose Ends," "Members' Forum," and book reviews.

The Taxonomy of Knowledge

Page 4 features a circular diagram illustrating "The Taxonomy of Knowledge," dividing it into "The Tangibles" and "The Intangibles." Major categories include Mathematics, Ontology, Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Geology, Biology, Anthropology, Human Enterprise, and Mental Concepts. Applied Knowledge, Technology, and the Useful Arts form the inner circle. A quote from the KORAN emphasizes the importance of acquiring knowledge.

Editorial: The Great Semantic Mess

Ivan T. Sanderson's editorial on page 5 addresses the confusing and often misused term "ESP" (Extra-Sensory Perception). He traces its origin to Professor J. B. Rhine's studies in the 1940s, emphasizing that Rhine's term was intended to describe perception beyond the known senses. Sanderson laments how "ESP" has become a catch-all for a vast array of phenomena, including those related to psychology, comparative religion, and even mysticism, leading to a semantic muddle. He suggests that a new, broader science is emerging, which he tentatively refers to as "Bionic," encompassing a fifth basic force-field that influences animals and plants. He distinguishes "extrasensory reception" (ESR) from "extrasensory projection" (ESP) and notes that the term "paranormal" is already preempted. Sanderson concludes by questioning what people truly mean by "ESP" today.

Ufology: Can We Tick Off Another One?

This section, starting on page 6, discusses the state of ufology. The author thanks the National Enquirer for permission to use a photograph of scientists involved in UFO research, noting that many are members or advisors of the Society. The article posits that ufology, declared "dead" after the Condon report, has continued to thrive, particularly in the foreign press and among private citizen groups. The National Enquirer's offer of $50,000 for proof of extraterrestrial UFOs is mentioned, with the newspaper reportedly receiving thousands of reports. The article suggests that the National Enquirer's findings indicate that UFOs exist and are not natural phenomena.

The Mary Celeste Mystery

On page 7, the article revisits the mystery of the Mary Celeste. It presents Eric Frank Russell's theory, detailed in his book, that the crew's abandonment of the ship was due to ergotism, a poisoning from fungus-infected grain (ergot). The article describes the symptoms of ergotism, including hallucinations and suicidal tendencies, and notes that ergot-contaminated bread was common on ships in the 19th century. The unusual circumstances and the condition of the ship's supplies are discussed, with Russell's conclusion that the crew may have leaped overboard due to these hallucinatory effects.

One of the PKs to the Fore

This section, continuing on page 8, delves into "Poltergeist Manifestations," which the author links to Psychokinesis (PK). It highlights the work of Dr. Hans Bender, who investigates these phenomena, often associated with disturbed or suppressed teenagers. Bender uses advanced equipment, including film cameras and tape recorders, to document cases where objects move without apparent cause. The article mentions that these manifestations are often linked to teenage girls and can be mistaken for supernatural events, leading some families to seek religious or parapsychological intervention. The author also references an article by Nino Lo Bello in The Washington Post concerning Bender's work.

A Cat Conclave

On page 8, the author shares a personal anecdote about a peculiar gathering of cats in his garden. Five stray cats, along with his own cat Taki, assembled and remained motionless for approximately three hours, facing the center of the yard. This unusual behavior is presented as a potential fortean event, with the author seeking further information from members.

Light "Wheels" Under the Sea

This article, starting on page 9 and continuing to page 10, discusses the phenomenon of underwater light wheels. It references previous articles in PURSUIT and the work of Ivan T. Sanderson and Bob Durant. The focus is on a 32-page paper by Kurt Kalle published in the Deutsche Hydrographische Zeitschrift. Kalle surveyed 70 reports of luminescent phenomena from 1897 to 1957. Kalle categorizes these phenomena into five types, including "balls" of light and rotating light waves. The article presents examples of these phenomena from ship logs, such as the S.S. Somersetshire and S.S. Otaki. Kalle's theory suggests these lights result from underwater seismic disturbances, possibly involving Noctiluca (a cause of marine phosphorescence) reacting to gas bubbles. However, the author of the PURSUIT article expresses skepticism about Kalle's explanation, particularly regarding the precise symmetry and rotation of the light wheels, suggesting that such phenomena might require a more complex or even artificial origin, possibly related to "OINT"-made processes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of PURSUIT consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, from the semantic complexities of ESP to unexplained aerial and marine events. The editorial stance, as articulated by Ivan T. Sanderson, is one of rigorous investigation and a desire to clarify terminology within the study of the unexplained. There is a clear emphasis on empirical observation and the application of scientific methods, even to subjects often dismissed by mainstream science. The journal aims to present detailed reports, theories, and discussions, encouraging members to contribute their own findings and insights. The Society itself operates with a degree of detachment, stating that its publications reflect the authors' views, not necessarily the Society's corporate stance.

This issue of Pursuit, dated April 1972, features a diverse range of articles covering unexplained phenomena, scientific curiosities, and historical mysteries. The cover highlights diagrams related to geographical distributions of 'light wheels' and earthquake epicenters, alongside a world map.

Articles

Light Wheels and Radar

The issue begins by examining two 'whopper' accounts of 'light wheels' observed at sea. The first, from Capt. F. G. Baker on November 30, 1951, describes brilliant boomerang-shaped arcs of phosphorescent light appearing in the sea, gyrating and sweeping towards his ship for 15 minutes. The second, from S.S. Strathmore on February 9, 1953, details milky white patches of light observed on the sea surface that flashed regularly and moved closer to the ship. Editor Robert J. Durant notes that these lightwheels were apparently turned on and off by the ship's radar, suggesting a connection to electromagnetic radiation and ruling out earthquake theories. He posits that strong electromagnetic impulses might trigger these phenomena.

Alleged Fallout-Free Water

This section discusses a discovery in Egypt's Western Desert: four galvanized iron drums made in Milan in 1942, containing water believed to be radiation-free after 30 years. Geologists found these drums on an abandoned wartime British airfield. Dr. Rushdi Said suggests this water could serve as a benchmark for assessing global water pollution. The drums are being sent to the US and the International Atomic Energy Agency for analysis.

The Moons of Mars

Robert J. Durant critiques the casual acceptance of a statement linking Jonathan Swift's description of Mars' moons to Johannes Kepler's predictions. Durant argues that Kepler, working with Tycho Brahe's measurements and pre-telescope era instruments, had no basis to predict Martian satellites. He clarifies that Kepler's belief in Mars having two moons stemmed from a misinterpretation of a Galileo anagram. The article emphasizes that Swift's description in 'Gulliver's Travels' (1725) was remarkably accurate, predating the actual discovery by Asaph Hall in 1877 by 150 years. The piece also touches on other historical astronomical observations, including Galileo's discovery of Venus' phases and a 'red spot' on Jupiter, suggesting Kepler may have had unconscious knowledge of these phenomena.

Life on the Moon?

A preliminary report mentions a claim by Donald K. Slayton, NASA director of flight crew operations, that a camera brought back by Apollo 11 astronauts had a micro-organism living on it, which had been on the Moon's surface for three years. Slayton also stated that moon soil seems to stimulate plant growth, with some plants growing faster in moon soil than in earth soil, and that moon soil has killed earth bacteria.

The Mediterranean

This section addresses anomalous ocean currents in the Mediterranean. Professor George Kennedy of UCLA, consulting with Henry Menard, explains that the Mediterranean circulation is broken into small cells with no general sense of motion, owing to irregular topography and islands, similar to currents in river bends.

Geology: On the Subject of "Cold"

This piece discusses the effect of wind on temperature, particularly concerning Emperor Penguins in Antarctica. It explores the debate between 'subjective' and 'objective' viewpoints on whether wind lowers the actual temperature of objects or merely makes them feel colder. The article cites the Evergreen Safety Council and the World Almanac on wind-chill effects and notes that wind can lower the temperature for plants as well.

Biology: The Paraguayan "Barking Snake"

An article details the 'Mboi-Yagua' or 'Barking Snake', identified as an Anaconda (Eunectes murinus). The snake, approximately 5 meters long, caused concern at the zoo after giving birth to 61 young. The name 'mboi-yagua' is explained as better translated as 'tiger-snake' due to the snake's spotted pattern, and the 'hooks on its tail' are described as vestigial hind limbs or spines used for anchoring during attacks.

Biology: That New Very Human-Looking Skull

This brief note mentions the discovery of a new hominid skull in Kenya by Dr. Leakey's son, dated as living more than twice as long ago as Homo erectus.

Biology: Pearls in Hens' Eggs

A Swedish newspaper reported that scientists examined hens' eggs and found pearls still in situ, suggesting the hens had been getting new chemicals in their food. However, the article notes the newspaper was dated April 1st, casting suspicion on the claim.

Biology: Giant Herbs

This section discusses the use of gibberellin, a plant substance, to induce gigantism in herbaceous plants, citing examples like 10-ft cabbages. It also recounts a personal experience with seeds that produced unusually large, fleshy leaves and a large radish.

Biology: Blind Lobsters Grow Bigger

An article from the San Francisco Examiner & Chronicle reports that blind lobsters grow faster, bigger, and more orange than sighted lobsters. A fishery biologist from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration explains that the loss of eye stalks, which contain glands regulating molting, leads to more frequent molting and faster growth. The cause of this eyelessness is unknown.

A Scaly Beast

A report from The Hindu in Madras, India, describes an amphibious creature caught from the sea, measuring nearly a meter long, with a sharp nose and scales all over its body. It is speculated to be an Indian Pholidota (Scaly Anteater).

Anthropology: "Yesu" of the Druids

This section explores a legend that the Palestinian Essene, referred to as 'Jesus Christ', visited and resided in Glastonbury, England. It suggests this historical aspect, along with botanical matters, will be further explored in future issues.

Anthropology: Possibly Apocryphal

This brief item includes a quote from a Philadelphia weekly about future speeders crashing in the sky and falling on pedestrians. It also provides information on how to remove oneself from junk mail lists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, historical anomalies, and scientific curiosities, often with a skeptical yet open-minded approach. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and clarification of claims, as evidenced by the editor's notes and requests for further information. There's a recurring theme of questioning conventional explanations and seeking deeper understanding of unusual events and historical accounts.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Vol. 5, No. 1
Date: July 1972
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained

This issue of Pursuit magazine delves into a variety of intriguing topics, ranging from ancient legends and historical trade to modern scientific phenomena and unexplained mysteries. The publication aims to present a straightforward approach to these subjects, often challenging conventional explanations and encouraging reader participation.

Ancient Legends and Historical Connections

The issue begins by exploring the legend of the Glastonbury thorn tree, which is said to flower twice a year and is attributed to Joseph of Arimathaea. The article connects this legend to the historical trade of tin in Britain, suggesting that Phoenicians and Palestinians were major suppliers. It also touches upon the possibility that early monotheistic theological influences may have spread from the north and west to the eastern Mediterranean, referencing a "Messiah belief" among the Celts and a figure named YESU.

Linguistic and Scientific Curiosities

A brief linguistic note highlights that "SET" is the word with the most usages in the English language, functioning as a noun, verb, or adjective. The magazine then addresses the phenomenon of hollow metal balls discovered worldwide. A straightforward explanation is offered: these are likely gas bottles used for high-pressure helium in rocket engines, which can survive atmospheric re-entry due to their shape and high surface-area-to-weight ratio. The article dismisses the need for more complex explanations, placing the onus on the press for sensationalizing the matter.

Technological Advancements and Mysteries

Further technological discussions include a report on a model undersea craft being tested in Japan, propelled by electromagnetically created jets of water. This craft aims to improve undersea operations by eliminating the hazards of propeller-driven submarines. The issue also revisits the "Stone bell case" in England, reporting that repeated pleas for information from the Bentley family have gone unanswered, leading to the conclusion that the case is closed.

Book Reviews and Debates

The "Members' Forum" section features inquiries about the American Investigating Museum and the Coando Effect. It also discusses the ongoing work on Charles Fort's notes, highlighting the meticulous process of transcribing and verifying his research. A note on table salt purity is included, along with a reminder for visitors to contact HQ in advance. The forum also mentions a "Dishrag caper" from a Philadelphia newspaper column.

Several book reviews are presented. "Viking America: The Norse Crossings and Their Legacy" by James Robert Enterline is praised for its attempt to cover the history of the Norse from the end of the Viking period, though it is noted that the author's classification of them as "Germanic hordes" is suspect. The reviewer emphasizes the role of indigenous people in teaching the Norse seafaring skills. "The Fitzgerald Report" and other publications are also briefly mentioned.

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to "UFO's-A Scientific Debate," a transcription of the AAAS Symposium held in 1969. The editors, Carl Sagan and Thornton Page, provide an introduction and addendum, explaining the AAAS's role in presenting unbiased programs on controversial subjects. The papers presented vary in viewpoint, with one notable paper by Lester Grinspoon and Alan D. Persky humorously interpreting UFOs as representations of human anatomy. The book is noted for being refreshingly free of 'sightings' reports and is recommended for libraries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance, seeking rational explanations for phenomena while acknowledging the existence of genuine mysteries. There is a strong emphasis on reader engagement, with calls for contributions and observations. The editorial board comprises individuals with diverse scientific and academic backgrounds, suggesting a commitment to rigorous, albeit unconventional, research. The publication appears to champion the study of 'fortean' phenomena, encouraging a pragmatic approach to the unexplained and challenging sensationalism in the media.