Quaderni UFO - Vol 01 No 01 - 1981 03-04

Magazine Overview

Title: Quaderni UFO
Issue: N° 1
Volume: I
Date: March-April 1981
Publisher: Centro Ufologico Nazionale (C.U.N.)
Type: Internal journal, supplement to Notiziario UFO.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Edoardo Russo, introduces "Quaderni UFO" as the new internal publication of the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (C.U.N.), replacing the previous publication "La Voce." Russo provides a historical overview of the C.U.N.'s publications, starting from its origins in 1966 as "Centro Unico Nazionale per lo studio dei fenomeni ritenuti di natura extraterrestre," which evolved through various formats like monthly circulars, offset-printed newsletters, and eventually the monthly "Notiziario UFO." He explains that "Quaderni UFO" is intended to be a more flexible and specialized tool for communication with members, moving beyond the broad coverage of "La Voce" to focus on a "technical" approach. The journal's structure is planned to be tripartite: casuistry, theory (discussions and articles), and a "bureaucratic" section related to organization. The material will be selected, and both Italian and foreign cases will be covered. Russo acknowledges that the initial issues may not be perfect but expresses confidence that with participation, "Quaderni UFO" will become a valuable instrument for ufological diffusion and discussion within the community. He concludes by wishing well to Gianfranco Neri, who will be curating the publication.

National Ufology Conference in Rome (February 21-22, 1981)

The issue reports on the National Ufology Conference held in Rome, which followed the General Assembly of members. The conference featured several speakers and discussions on various aspects of ufology.

Roberto Pinotti informed attendees that Mr. Scozzari could not attend and introduced Alberto Perego. Pinotti noted that Perego interprets the UFO phenomenon from a strictly objective and extraterrestrial perspective, linking these "presences" to global politics.

Alberto Perego shared his personal journey from skepticism to belief in flying saucers, recounting numerous sightings since 1954, including large flotillas. Initially considering them Russian or American secret craft, his investigation led him to believe they were extraterrestrial probes, suggesting humanity might have been "transplanted" to Earth. He mentioned that UFOs have the ability to become invisible and that the phenomenon intensifies during major world events, possibly related to vigilance over nuclear bases. Perego also spoke of conversations with individuals who had been inside UFOs and with George Adamski, emphasizing the need to approach the subject seriously and realistically.

Massimo Ceccarelli intervened to discuss the "hard" aspects of the phenomenon, particularly the material consistency of UFO occupants. He proposed that the "spacesuit" might be designed to protect the pilot from the stresses of sudden acceleration and sharp turns.

John Mc. Carthy discussed the evolution of ufology, noting the shift from a dichotomy of "believers" and "non-believers" to an understanding that ufology doesn't necessarily require proof. He distinguished between deductive science and "historical" science, suggesting ufology currently falls into the latter category, focusing on unique events. McCarthy also explored potential correlations between ufology and Catholic theology, noting that both disciplines consider quantitative and qualitative methods. He presented four hypotheses regarding UFO phenomena: extraterrestrial, terrestrial, psychological/parapsychological, and preternatural. He found the preternatural hypothesis, which aligns with the doctrine of good and bad angels, to be the most convincing to the Church. McCarthy also briefly mentioned the case of De Silva, highlighting the importance of lucidity and psychological preparation for witnesses in close encounters.

Roberto Pinotti presented his report titled "THE UFO PHENOMENON HAS A MEANING?" building upon Jacques Vallée's "control system" theory and the concept of "hyperspace" for interstellar travel. He posited that UFO manifestations, characterized by periodicity and unpredictability, suggest a deliberate effort to foster increasing belief in extraterrestrial life among humanity, raising the question of the origin of this intelligence.

Ezio Bernardini presented a report on "foo-fighters," which was noted for its comprehensive data and information, though its length (46 pages) made a full verbal presentation challenging.

Enza Massa, representing S.U.F. for the Rome area, expressed solidarity among ufologists, regardless of their affiliations.

Roberto Pinotti announced that the third volume of "UFO IN ITALIA," covering sightings from 1955 to 1970, would be compiled with the collaboration of CUN and SUF, expressing hope for continued collaboration.

Roberto Pinotti proposed honorary memberships in C.U.N. for Alberto Perego, Comm. Mario Maioli, and John Mc. Carthy, which was unanimously approved.

Antonio Chiumiento shared his views on ufology, emphasizing the need for conventions to be didactic and provide guidance rather than just hypotheses. He stressed the importance of verifying the objective reality of witness descriptions, particularly in close encounters, and cautioned against purely psychological explanations. Chiumiento also highlighted the necessity of field work and direct interaction with witnesses, rather than solely relying on reading books and magazines. He pointed out the significant lack of knowledge regarding IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) and the tendency of witnesses to resist identification, even in good faith. He concluded that cases with high strangeness coefficients require the assistance of experts from other disciplines.

Edoardo Russo's report, read in his absence due to study commitments, focused on the need for planning within the C.U.N. He criticized the current state of the Center as merely a "sum of its members" with a lack of clear direction, directives, and long-term vision, leading to disillusionment. Russo proposed a structured approach to planning the C.U.N.'s activities.

Gianfranco Neri commented on Russo's report, acknowledging the validity of his ideas but suggesting a more gradual implementation.

Roberto Farabone, in a report presented by Pinotti, expressed concern over directives from higher bodies, advocating for a Center composed of capable and competent individuals. He stressed the importance of reviewing case investigations objectively and not being biased towards seeing UFOs at all costs.

Roberto Pinotti supported Farabone's emphasis on professionalism and continuous improvement.

Amleto Pezzati presented a study on UFO sightings in Italy during 1978, suggesting a correlation between sighting patterns and geomagnetic induction lines. His work was well-received.

Elio Grossmann presented a report titled "FROM LEOPARDI TO JUNG: EMERGENCIES OF THE UNCONSCIOUS AND THE UFO PHENOMENON," exploring the significance of dreams and the UFO phenomenon through the lens of Jungian psychology.

Proposals for Planning the Activities of C.U.N.

Roberto Farabone submitted a proposal for the planning of the C.U.N.'s activities, emphasizing the need for a clear direction and structure. He argued that the C.U.N. is currently more of a collection of individuals than a cohesive organization. Farabone stressed that effective research requires more than just a desire to do something; it demands study, documentation, and a professional approach, drawing parallels with astronomy where positional astronomy requires knowledge of spherical trigonometry. He advocated for the creation of a national UFO catalog based on re-investigating cases objectively, not just collecting clippings. He also proposed that research findings should be disseminated through publications like "Quaderni UFO" and international channels.

Edoardo Russo's contribution, presented by Farabone, further elaborated on the need for planning. He defined key concepts: values (aspirations), aims (specific goals), and objectives (quantifiable outcomes). Russo argued that the C.U.N. needs a long-term vision and a structured program, rather than just reacting to immediate issues. He proposed a hierarchical approach to planning and programming, drawing from management techniques like "management by objectives" (MBO) to ensure clarity and coordination within the organization.

UFO Abduction Cases: A Mini-Symposium

This section summarizes an investigation conducted by Richard Hall and a group of professionals in medicine, psychology, and behavioral sciences regarding UFO abduction experiences. The interviewed individuals, including Richard F. Haines, Barbara D. Peter, Peter Rank, R. Leo Sprinkle, Ron Westrum, and Grey Woodman, generally believed that the reported experiences were at least partially "real" in that they described a shocking event. However, many also felt that witnesses might unconsciously fabricate parts of their accounts.

The participants were asked to choose from four hypotheses:
(a) Experiences are fundamentally true, with repressed memories due to shock or induced amnesia.
(b) Real experiences, but the content is unconsciously fabricated by combining existing mental material, misunderstandings, and fears to rationalize the experience.
(c) Entirely fantasy, based on personal or social awareness of UFO reports.
(d) Conscious fabrication for reasons like money, notoriety, or attention.

Two interviewees (Sprinkle and Woodman) favored hypothesis (a). Three (Haines, Rank, and Westrum) chose (b), with Rank adding that hypothesis (a) is "attractive in some cases." Peter suggested (a) or (b) were possibilities.

The second question addressed the use of hypnotic regression in abduction cases and the potential for investigators to influence subjects. Most expressed caution regarding hypnosis, acknowledging its potential value if properly applied. Haines noted that many past hypnotic regression reports were flawed due to poorly programmed sessions and questionable motives, suggesting hypnosis can increase "noise" but is a valuable tool when used by a clinically trained and sensitive practitioner.

Peter highlighted hypnosis as a method for uncovering repressed memories, a respected psychiatric technique for factual research, but cautioned against its use for stimulation. He warned that subjects under hypnosis are highly suggestible and may fill memory gaps with suggestions from the hypnotist.

Rank pointed out that hypnotized subjects may fabricate accounts to please the hypnotist, obscuring memory retrieval. However, he also noted that real events can be recalled with surprising accuracy under hypnosis, citing its use in criminal investigations. He concluded that hypnotic regression can continue to be used, with data interpreted cautiously.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the need for professionalism, structured planning, and scientific rigor in ufological research. There's a clear push to elevate the C.U.N. from a loosely affiliated group to a more organized and technically proficient entity. The editorial stance is one of serious investigation, moving beyond mere speculation towards evidence-based analysis and a deeper understanding of the UFO phenomenon. The publication aims to foster a more disciplined and informed approach among its members and the wider ufological community.

This issue of the MUFON UFO JOURNAL, dated August 1980, is identified as issue number 150 and focuses on the topic of UFO abduction cases, presenting a 'Mini Symposium'. The content is primarily in Italian, with some English terms and references.

Key Articles and Discussions

UFO Abduction Cases: A Mini Symposium

The core of the issue revolves around a discussion on UFO abduction cases, featuring contributions from several individuals: Sprinkle, Westrum, Woodman, Haines, and Peter. They debate the utility and methodology of hypnotic regression in investigating these experiences.

Sprinkle believes hypnosis is useful for exploring memories and impressions of UFO abductions, not necessarily as definitive proof, but for evaluating the abductee's experience and the impact on their daily life. He stresses the importance of collateral investigations like psychiatric evaluations and polygraphs.

Westrum cautions against suggesting information to witnesses, emphasizing that any help should be professional and focused on the individual's mental well-being.

Woodman views hypnosis as a valuable research tool but stresses the need to assess the individual's personality before and after the incident. He warns about the suggestibility of individuals under hypnosis, which can lead to fabricated stories.

The concept of 'Folie à deux' (shared delusion) is explored in relation to cases with multiple witnesses. The discussion questions whether this phenomenon is relevant and what evidence would exclude it. Haines suggests that such experiences might evoke sociocultural reactions similar to those found in families. Peter outlines criteria to exclude 'folie à deux', such as the absence of pre-incident dependency and the consistency of the story after separation.

Rank acknowledges that 'folie à deux' can explain certain psychopathological aspects of UFO phenomena but notes that psychiatrists often lack a deep understanding of UFO cases and may attribute them to existing psychological mechanisms rather than genuine anomalous events.

Sprinkle reports no indications of 'folie à deux' in his investigations of couples and trios of abductees.

Westrum agrees that it can occur but cites the Minot, N.D. case as an example where it doesn't seem applicable. He suggests that individuals with genuine amnesia might fill gaps with 'significant people' from their experiences.

Woodman describes 'folie à deux' as a form of hysterical delusion that dissipates upon separation.

The issue of physical marks or 'stigmata' on abductees (burns, skin lesions, headaches) is raised. Haines relates these to ancient phenomena and suggests they might be a form of communication, possibly using forgotten methods by UFO entities.

Essential Methods for Analyzing Abduction Reports

A list of recommended guidelines for investigating abduction reports is provided, generalizing from overlapping responses:

1. Isolate, protect, and emotionally support the subject.
2. Involve professional psychologists or psychiatrists immediately.
3. Plan a systematic and gentle investigation.
4. Establish basic facts without inducing mental predispositions; record conscious memories before hypnosis.
5. Investigate and record physical and emotional accounts before and after the incident with professional help.
6. Note any secondary gains or profits from publicizing the story.
7. Determine the subject's interpretation of the event's significance.
8. Keep records of all communications to and from the subject.
9. Suggested investigative tools include objective hypnosis (avoiding leading questions), psychiatric/psychotherapeutic evaluation, polygraph tests, EEG, and psychological stress evaluation (PSE).

Alternative Perspectives on Abduction Reports

Haines admits to leaving room for intuitive understanding of 'UFO Abduction' experiences, finding them beyond current rational explanation, and maintains a flexible position.

Peter suggests that abduction reports might stem from traumatic experiences or a break with reality, where the witness describes being controlled by others, possibly symbolizing a lack of control in their own lives. The use of UFO experiences in this context remains a mystery.

Rank notes the similarity in many abduction experiences, even with personal interpretations. He argues against the idea that people fabricate these stories for financial gain, as it often leads to financial loss.

Sprinkle, while favoring the hypothesis of 'fundamentally true' experiences, acknowledges other potential causes like shocking experiences or conscious fabrications. However, in his work with about 50 people using hypnotic regression, he found no indication of deception, fantasy, or neurotic reactions.

Westrum proposes that in many abduction cases, there's a period of amnesia associated with a UFO sighting, and memories can be elicited under hypnosis. He posits that fear or physical symptoms might accompany these cases and raises questions about the origin of amnesia and the source of recalled content.

The 'Malva Project'

An article titled "PERCHE' IL 'PROGETTO MALVA'" (Why the 'Malva Project'?) discusses an experimental operational research technique aimed at detecting data and information related to specific circumstances (combinations of Space, Time, and Human factors) that coincide with ufological manifestations. It highlights the limitations of witness testimonies due to their subjective nature and suggests that theories based solely on such data risk being unfounded.

Elements of Ufology

Antonio Chiumiento discusses the challenges of establishing ufology as a scientific discipline. He argues that science is defined by its methodology, not just its subject matter, and that rigorous verification and the development of theoretical models are crucial. He points out that UFO research is often hampered by a lack of concrete evidence and the difficulty in distinguishing genuine phenomena from misidentifications (like weather balloons or planets).

Chiumiento also critiques the media's role in sensationalizing UFO reports, often presenting them as extraterrestrial spacecraft, which influences public perception and deters some scientists from serious investigation. He advocates for more rigorous investigative methods and a multidisciplinary approach.

Bibliography

A bibliography of books and articles related to UFO abduction cases is provided, including works by Bill Barry, Yurko Bondarchuk, Bill Chalker, Raymond Fowler, John G. Fuller, Terry A. Hartman, Cynthia Hind, Budd Hopkins, J.A. Hynek, J. Vallée, C. Lorenzen, J. Schuessler, and R.L. Sprinkle. Another section lists works on hypnosis related to UFO research, by Richard Hall, Allan H. Lawson, Willard D. Nelson, and R.L. Sprinkle.

Clinical Considerations

This section lists various psychiatric and psychological texts relevant to the study of amnesia, 'folie à deux', and related phenomena, including works by J.A. Blake, A.M. Freedman, A. Gralnick, B. Schwartz, and others.

Post Scriptum

The editors invite further discussion and pose two questions: 1) Whether Sodium Pentothal could be more reliably used than hypnosis for truth-seeking in abduction accounts. 2) Whether there is a significant difference in hypnosis methodology.

Report on a French Ufology Meeting

Edoardo Russo provides a personal account of an encounter with French ufology groups at the 8th assembly of the C.E.C.R.U. (Comité Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique) in Lyon. He describes the organization as an informal federation of French and Swiss groups. Russo details the meeting's agenda, which included discussions on forming a French federation, investigative methodologies, detection techniques, and contactee cases. He notes the friendly atmosphere, the prevalence of humor, and the significant presence of women among the participants. He also mentions the development of a code of ethics for ufologists within the CECRU.

Organizational Matters

Pages 35-37 detail the 1981 preventive budget for the Centro Ufologico Nazionale (CUN), outlining income and expenses for various departments like the General Secretariat, National Coordination, and Foreign Secretariat. It also mentions the self-sufficiency of the UFO Newsletter and the Documentation Bank.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the psychological and investigative aspects of UFO abduction cases, the challenges of establishing ufology as a scientific discipline, and the organizational efforts within the ufological community. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, advocating for rigorous methodology, multidisciplinary approaches, and open discussion of various hypotheses, while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the subjective nature of witness testimony. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine anomalous phenomena and misidentifications or psychological factors.

This issue of Quaderni UFO, dated May/June 1981, focuses on the internal operations, financial status, and international relations of the Centro. The document includes detailed financial reports, discussions on organizational decisions, and calls for member participation and contributions.

Financial Report

The financial section details the Centro's income and expenses. Total ordinary expenses are listed as 2,150,000 Lire, with extraordinary expenses amounting to 2,050,000 Lire. The reported balance is 700,000 Lire, leading to a total of 4,900,000 Lire. However, a note indicates that the 'real' total for the Centro is 150,000 Lire less. Specific breakdowns include expenses for the 'Segreteria Estera' (Foreign Secretariat) with correspondence and mailing costs, and various extraordinary expenses such as photocopies, clipping services, startup costs for the SE, reimbursements for Torino and the National Coordination, circulars, and the 'N. U.' bridge number, as well as costs for B.d.D. startup.

Organizational Decisions and Proposals

Several questions are posed to the Centro's Board of Directors (C.D.) for deliberation:

• Photocopy Pricing: The CUFOC of Ispra has requested copies of B.d.D. material from 1977. The Centro needs to decide whether to charge external rates (1,150 Lire), collaborator rates (100 Lire), or member rates (50 Lire), with the latter being below cost.
• International Collaboration (C.E.C.R.U.): The C.U.N. has been in contact with francophone ufological research groups in Lyon and Brigues, aiming to foster closer collaboration and potentially expand the C.E.C.R.U. to include other European nations. The C.D. is asked to approve the C.U.N.'s entry as the Italian representative, pending review of the cooperation protocol.
• Printing Services: Approval is sought for using the printing services of A. Lazzaro in Reggio Emilia for letterhead paper and envelopes, as the proprietor is a member and offers cost prices.
• National Enquirer Proposal: A proposal from the USA's NATIONAL ENQUIRER is presented, offering to pay 200-250 dollars per published story if the C.U.N. helps them identify interesting cases. The Enquirer would conduct interviews on-site, with the possibility of the MUFON also collaborating. This is noted as something the correspondent Paul Houre already does.
• Special Commission: A proposal to create a special commission for long-term planning (planning, programming, budgeting) for the Centro's activities is put forward. The Torino office offers to form this commission and present a detailed plan shortly.

Information for Members

The issue provides several important updates for members:

• B.d.D. Reactivation: The B.d.D. is operational again. While the material organization is ongoing, provisional catalogs are available and will be published in 'Quaderni UFO'. Members can also request these catalogs privately from Torino.
• Translators Needed: The Centro is seeking translators for foreign-language articles (especially English and French) for their internal publications. G. Neri and E. Russo are the contacts.
• International Congresses: Several congresses abroad are mentioned, with potential participation from Centro members. These include events in St. Etienne (May 10th), London (May 24th), Boston (July 26th), and congresses in Germany and Toulon in October. Interested members are advised to contact E. Russo.
• Newspaper Clippings: For archival and exchange purposes, the Centro urgently needs recent newspaper clippings. Similar material will be sent in return. Contact Torino (P.O. Box 82).
• Archive Submissions: All branches and sections are urged to send lists of investigations and clippings from their local archives to Torino as soon as possible.

Important Notice to Members

A separate section, marked "IMPORT ANTISSIMO !!!", addresses members who have not yet paid their membership fees for 1981. It urges them to send their association fees (20,000 Lire for members, 10,000 Lire for collaborators) to the National Coordination in Bologna. The importance of these fees for the association's survival and its ongoing projects, such as 'Quaderni UFO', the B.d.D. photocopier, the 'Notiziario UFO' bridge issue, stationery, and the Eco della Stampa clipping collection, is emphasized.

Editorial Guidelines

The "DALLA REDAZIONE" (From the Editorial Office) section provides guidelines for future contributors to the internal publication. It stresses the importance of using standard A4 paper, maintaining specific margins, single-spacing, limiting articles to 5-6 pages, titling them appropriately, and using new ribbons for clear printing. The editorial concludes with a philosophical note: "Let us not neglect what we have learned from the past, but let us not be conditioned by it; rather, let it serve us to constantly move forward without any prejudice."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes organizational efficiency, financial responsibility, and the importance of international cooperation in the field of ufology. The editorial stance is proactive, encouraging member participation, timely payment of dues, and adherence to submission guidelines. There is a clear focus on building and maintaining archives, disseminating information through publications, and fostering connections with international ufological organizations. The call for members to contribute and the detailed financial reporting suggest a commitment to transparency and structured growth.