Realite ou Fiction - No 11 - 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: REALITE OU FICTION
Issue: 11
Date: 1982
Publisher: Groupe Privé Ufologique Nancéien (GPUN)
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of 'Realite ou Fiction' delves into the state of ufology, perception, and introduces the Raelian movement.

Editorial: The Decline of UFOs and Ufologists

Raoul Robé's editorial expresses concern over the apparent disappearance of UFOs and the low morale among ufologists. He notes that 1982 saw zero observations, a record low, and that ufological publications are scarce and often sold at deep discounts. Robé laments the rise of esotericism as a replacement for UFO interest, questioning if extraterrestrial enthusiasts will soon be unemployed. He dismisses the idea that economic crises correlate with increased UFO sightings, referencing the lack of a 'psychosis' despite the release of films like E.T. The editorial calls for ufologists to unite, organize, and collaborate, highlighting the positive atmosphere and willingness of new associations to join at the 13th session of the Comité Nord-Est des Groupes Ufologiques in Chaumont. Robé advocates for the creation of regional committees to improve national ufological coordination, citing the progress made in the Nord-Est region.

Analysis of CEPAN Technical Note 10: Perception and UFOs

The magazine features a detailed critique of CEPAN Technical Note 10, authored by M. Jimenez, which explores the psychological distortions in witness testimonies. The author acknowledges the note's value in clarifying confusing accounts but expresses reservations about its conclusions, suggesting they might be hasty. While agreeing with Jimenez's methodology for identifying perceptual distortions, the author is surprised that the cases studied are often marginal or have fragile testimonies. They express a desire to see the same rigorous analysis applied to well-supported cases, such as the one involving ground witnesses, military personnel, and Jaguar pilots.

The author then recounts a personal UFO observation from 1967 to illustrate their point. They discuss the theories of perception, noting the lack of consensus and the significant influence of probability and desire on how stimuli are perceived. Using an analogy of a hunter mistaking a colleague for a rabbit, the author explains how the intellect filters information to match expectations, often ignoring contradictory evidence. This hypothesis is supported by hunting accidents where probable or desired events are 'seen' more readily than actual occurrences.

CEPAN's proposed experiments, involving photomontages and descriptions of luminous phenomena, are discussed. The author questions the methodology, particularly whether participants were aware of the experiment's nature beforehand. They assert that if aware, they would refuse to answer questions lacking objective data, citing their own humorous responses to similar prompts in the 'Magonia' project. The author states that in their own observation, they would have assessed distance as 'between objective and infinity' and dimension as 'unknown' in the absence of clear indicators. They note that while 60% recognized a lenticular object, 20% saw a UFO, and only one person identified a helicopter light as a UFO. The author concludes that the effectiveness of the experiments is influenced by the participants' prior knowledge of the GEPAN's focus on UFOs, suggesting that the perceived UFO image in the public consciousness and the 'GEPAN-UFO ambiance' play a considerable role.

Further experiments described involve projecting slides and asking participants to identify objects, positions, distances, and sizes. Differences in responses between groups who believed they were seeing a UFO and those who did not are noted, attributed to the former group's tendency to assign UFO-like characteristics. The author finds the protocols sound but tempers the conclusions by questioning the role of 'doctrinal complacency' and 'a priori confidence' in the instructor. They argue that statistical psychological studies must account for context, not just injected stimuli, and that the credibility of the organizer influences responses.

Personal Observation from 1967

The author details a personal observation from October 7, 1967, in Malzéville, France. Initially looking for UFOs due to reading GUEU and MICEL, they witnessed a bright white light, like a magnesium flare, appearing above the horizon during a storm. Initially dismissing it as a flare, they observed its fixed position despite the wind and the presence of reflections and smoke. The object then transformed into a perfect disk, then a sphere, changing color from white-yellow to orange and descending. The author describes being 'completely stunned' but still trying to rationalize it, considering a balloon or a stratus cloud. They eventually recognized it as an 'object' that progressively disappeared. The author concludes that while M. Jimenez's conclusions might apply to some cases, they are not universally applicable, as demonstrated by their own experience where rational explanations were actively sought but ultimately insufficient.

Interview: The Raelian Movement

An interview with Jean-Pierre Fournier, representing the Raelian movement for Eastern France, conducted by Pierre Faust for Radio Vitamine, is presented. Fournier explains that the Raelian movement, founded in 1973, is an international organization dedicated to preparing humanity for the arrival of extraterrestrial civilizations. He recounts that in 1973, an extraterrestrial being contacted Claude Vorillon ('Rael') and tasked him with disseminating their message. The message reveals that humans were scientifically synthesized on Earth by these beings, who have observed humanity for millennia, refuting both chance and divine creation theories. The Raelians believe humans are biological machines created by these extraterrestrials.

The movement's primary objective is to spread this message globally and establish an embassy for the extraterrestrials. Their second focus is distributing an 'instruction manual' for the human body, emphasizing the need to refine this 'machine' for spiritual and physical awakening. They believe that individual transformation will lead to societal transformation.

When asked about their activities, Fournier states they are structured as a non-lucrative association under the 1901 law. He prefers the term 'religion' over 'sect,' defining it as a connection to something greater, based on infinity, matter, space, and science, promoting human elevation by removing divine identities. He distinguishes their movement from potentially harmful cults, emphasizing that as long as individual liberty is not compromised, there is no issue. He acknowledges that some ufological groups are serious but notes that others are resistant to new theories, labeling those who propose answers as charlatans.

Fournier explains the Raelian symbol: two interlocking triangles representing the infinite (grand and small), and a swastika symbolizing infinity in time and cycles. He clarifies that 'Rael' means 'light' and 'Elohim' (from ancient Hebrew) refers to 'those who came from the sky,' not a deity. He explains that ancient scribes misinterpreted 'Elohim' as 'God.' The symbol represents the interconnectedness of the universe, from galaxies to atoms, suggesting that life exists at all scales. He asserts that the Elohim have proven that atoms contain universes and intelligent beings.

Fournier recounts an experience in 1976 where two UFOs appeared during a gathering with Claude Vorillon, serving to 'solidify' and 'comfort' the group. Approximately fifty people witnessed this event. He describes the Raelian symbol as a stylization of infinity, with the triangles representing the infinite in space and the swastika representing the infinite in time. He clarifies that the swastika's meaning is related to cycles and eternity, not Nazism. He confirms that the movement is structured as an association under the 1901 law, operating on a non-lucrative basis, and prefers to be called a religion that connects people to the infinite, matter, space, and science, aiming for human elevation by removing divine identities.

He addresses the concept of 'sects,' stating that as long as individual liberty is not threatened, he has no issue with them. He acknowledges the seriousness of some ufological groups but criticizes others for their lack of openness to new theories and their tendency to dismiss individuals who propose answers. He concludes by stating that the Raelian movement is not a sect but a religion focused on human transformation and understanding the universe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the perceived decline in UFO activity and morale within the ufological community, the psychological aspects of perception and witness testimony, and the introduction of the Raelian movement's philosophy. The editorial stance, particularly from Raoul Robé, is one of concern for the future of ufology and a call for greater organization and collaboration. The analysis of CEPAN's work suggests a critical yet engaged approach to understanding UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of rigorous methodology and acknowledging the potential for perceptual biases. The interview with the Raelian movement presents their views without overt endorsement, focusing on their organizational structure and core beliefs about extraterrestrial origins and human potential.

This document is an issue of the French ufology magazine 'GPUN NANCY', dated February 5, 1981. It contains an interview, a report on a specific UFO sighting, and commentary on ufological associations and media coverage.

Interview on Cergy Pontoise Case

The issue begins with an interview addressing the famous Cergy Pontoise UFO case and a book by Jimmy Gieu. The interviewee states they have little to say about it, recommending readers to read the book and form their own conclusions, and to also read other books on the subject. They explicitly state they have no personal opinion regarding Franck Fontaine or his actions. The interviewee thanks the hosts for the opportunity to explain their association.

Commentary on UFO Phenomena and Associations

Following the interview, there is a commentary suggesting that from the outset, there was deception regarding the 'merchandise' (the UFO phenomenon). It posits that in such contactee cases (even when mediated), the UFO phenomenon serves as a support for a 'religious or philosophical message' and is quickly set aside or evaded. The commentary notes the opinion of the 'esote' (esoteric) on UFO associations, stating: "We, objective ufologists, are too incredulous and we refuse the 'revelation'...".

It is also mentioned that GPUN had invited two members of 'raelima' in 1976 for a discussion, but these individuals always found an excuse to refuse dialogue.

GPUN Logo and Contact Information

A prominent logo for 'GROUPE PRIVE UFOLOGIQUE NANCEEN' (GPUN) is displayed, with the address '15, rue Guilbert-de-Pixérécourt, 54000 NANCY'.

UFO Sighting Report: Pay-sur-Moselle

A section titled 'OBSERVATION FAITE PAR UN MEMBRE DANS LE CIEL' (Observation made by a member in the sky) details an event that occurred on Wednesday, December 31, 1980, at 9:30 PM in Pay-sur-Moselle. There were three witnesses, and one report was recovered. This report was a follow-up to a press article published in 'Est-Républicain' (Font-à-Mousson edition) on January 3, 1981.

Description of the Phenomenon:

The phenomenon was described as an arch without apparent structural detail. Its colors were 'multicolored' (all colors of the rainbow, but specifically noting the absence of green). Its dimensions were estimated to be smaller than the moon. The altitude and distance were undetermined. The direction of movement was West-South-West. Remarks noted a rectilinear evolution, very rapid speed, and the absence of noise.

Investigation Notes:

The report states that this observation could have been particularly interesting due to its rapid reporting and investigation, with potential for corroboration from witnesses in different locations. However, the reserve of the single witness interviewed and the absolute silence of the other seven prevented the extraction of exploitable (quantifiable) data from this case.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to adopt a critical yet investigative stance towards UFO phenomena. It questions the motivations behind some UFO reports, suggesting they can be co-opted for non-ufological agendas. The publication emphasizes the importance of objective ufology and highlights the challenges in obtaining reliable witness testimony and conducting thorough investigations when witnesses are reticent. The issue also touches upon the role of the media in reporting UFO events and the internal dynamics within the ufological community, as indicated by the quote about objective ufologists being too incredulous.