SubRosa Issue1-Spread

Magazine Overview

Sub Rosa, Issue One, June 2005, presented by The Daily Grail, positions itself as a publication where "Science And Magic, Myth And History Meet." The magazine is offered for free and aims to provide a platform for exploring subjects that challenge orthodox worldviews, including alternative history, esoteric traditions, and new paradigm science. The editor, Greg Taylor, welcomes reader feedback and expresses a desire to grow the magazine with new content and features in each issue.

Editorial

In the editorial, Greg Taylor welcomes readers to the inaugural issue of Sub Rosa magazine. He explains the origin of the name 'Sub Rosa' from Roman mythology, signifying secrecy or confidence, and relates it to the hushed tones often required when discussing subjects that challenge established norms. Taylor emphasizes that while the magazine is not about secrecy, it aims to foster open discussion on topics that have historically been met with opposition from organized religion and orthodox science. He highlights the magazine's innovative use of interactive features within the PDF, allowing readers to click on links to websites for mentioned books, CDs, and DVDs, and even access trailers for films. The design is credited to Mark James Foster of Artifice Design. Taylor also mentions plans for advertising opportunities and expresses enthusiasm for the project's potential.

News

'X-ray' Girl Causes Controversy

This news item discusses the debate surrounding Natalia Demkina, a Russian girl claiming to have 'X-ray eyes' that allow her to see inside the human body. While tests in London yielded mixed results, with British scientists finding some evidence to support her claims, a Discovery Channel test in the US concluded she could not satisfy the trial's conditions. Nobel Prize winner Brian Josephson criticized the American tests, arguing the criteria for success were not scientifically sound and questioned the motives of the investigating team, which included CSICOP-affiliated skeptics Paul Wiseman and Ray Hyman. Josephson suggested the cutoff point for success was set incorrectly and that Demkina might possess a real expertise in reading people rather than literal X-ray vision. More recent experiments by Professor Yoshio Machi at Tokyo University suggest Demkina has some paranormal ability, though not necessarily 'X-ray eyes,' as she could reportedly use her abilities on photographs.

Figures Predate Nazca Lines

An archaeologist named Johny Isla claims that a group of approximately 50 geoglyphs discovered in Peru's southern coastal desert near Palpa predate the Nazca Lines by four centuries. Isla suggests these figures were created between 500 and 400 BCE, whereas the Nazca Lines date to after 50 BCE. The figures vary in size and depict humans, monkeys, birds, and cats. Isla notes key differences: the Paracas figures are on hillsides, smaller, and naturalistic, while Nazca figures are in level areas, larger, and stylized. The Paracas figures are often grouped, while Nazca figures are individual, and no Paracas figures are repeated in Nazca iconography.

Immortal by 2050?

Britain's leading futurist, Ian Pearson, predicts that by 2050, humans may be able to download their minds into machines, achieving virtual immortality. However, he notes that this technology will likely be unaffordable for lower-income individuals until 2075 or 2080. Pearson, who has a background in applied mathematics and theoretical physics, believes that within 15 years, people will spend significant time in immersive virtual environments for social and business interactions, suggesting this will become the norm.

News Briefs

Several brief news items cover various topics: pessimists are at higher risk of illness and premature death; solar activity might cause whales to beach themselves; a slowdown in the Gulf Stream has been detected; single malt whisky is claimed to have anti-cancer properties; NASA's Voyager 1 probe is nearing the edge of the Solar System; and modern technology has been used to decipher erased writing on an ancient Archimedes manuscript.

Meditation Beats Death

This article reports on a long-term study of Transcendental Meditation (TM) that concluded the practice is associated with significantly lower rates of death. Robert Schneider, director of the Center of Natural Medicine and Prevention at Maharishi University of Management, published the findings in the American Journal of Cardiology. However, other researchers, like Theodore Kotchen, advise caution, recommending larger studies to confirm the results, though acknowledging that relaxation intuitively makes sense as a factor in cardiovascular health.

Wormholes Unusable

A new scientific paper by Stephen Hsu and Roman Buniy from the University of Oregon suggests that stable and predictable wormholes, necessary for traversing space and time, are mutually exclusive. They argue that one can have stability or predictability, but not both, meaning wormholes suitable for controlled travel would likely fall apart. The article also references the original work on wormholes by Albert Einstein and Nathan Rosen.

News Briefs

More news briefs include: London detectives concluded Italian banker Roberto Calvi was murdered in 1982; archaeologists uncovered mummy bundles at Peru's Pachacamac ruins; the Boxing Day Sumatran earthquake 'unzipped' the planet; UK scientists have levitated heavy elements using liquid oxygen and magnetic fields; computer simulations suggest Jupiter and Saturn played a major role in the Solar System's formation; and new rules forbid showing purported paranormal events on British television before 9 pm.

Runestone Returns

Geologist Scott Wolter and engineer Dick Nielsen claim that the Kensington Runestone inscription may be a coded message. The stone, found over a century ago, bears an inscription suggesting Norwegians were in Minnesota in 1362. While orthodox historians believe it's a hoax authored by Olaf Ohman, Wolter argues that tests prove the stone's age and that two specific runes might indicate a concealed code, possibly related to the Knights Templar.

Acupuncture Support

Researchers at University College London and Southampton University have found evidence that acupuncture works and is not merely a placebo effect. Using PET scans, they monitored patients undergoing acupuncture for arthritis pain, separating the placebo effect from actual results. Sarah Williams of the British Acupuncture Council stated this research confirms acupuncture's effectiveness.

News Briefs

Additional news briefs mention that half of the looted items from the Iraq National Museum may not have been retrieved; suspicious grey spots on 'Ötzi the Iceman' suggest decomposition; time travelers have failed to appear at a MIT convention; a child who lived in the Amityville Horror house confirms paranormal events occurred; and NASA is offering a prize for converting lunar soil into breathable oxygen.

Columns

The Science Of Doubt

Greg Taylor, the editor of Sub Rosa, reflects on the influence of Douglas Adams and his views on science and religion. Taylor, identifying as a deist, agrees with Adams's assertion that science needs to be challenged regularly. He argues that the 'sanctity' often attributed to religion also applies to modern science, citing debates around Darwinian evolution or the age of the Sphinx as examples. Taylor contends that questioning accepted wisdom, whether religious or scientific, is crucial for the growth of knowledge and that science, when unchallenged, can become a form of religion.

A Spiritual Challenge To The Sceptics

Ian Lawton, a writer and researcher, proposes a spiritual counter-challenge to skeptics like James Randi. He suggests using modern research, including quantum physics and evidence from near-death experiences and hypnotic regression, to argue for a rational spiritual worldview. Lawton criticizes the reductionist and simplistic debunking attempts by skeptics, asserting that they fail to address the full scope of evidence. He concludes that a spiritual explanation is more logical than pure materialism, and challenges skeptics to provide rational materialist explanations or confront their own fears.

Mystics And Brain Scientists: The Great Convergence

Michael Grosso, a teacher and author, discusses the convergence of mysticism and brain science, referencing the book 'The Mystical Mind' by Eugene d'Aquili and Andrew Newberg. Grosso highlights research on meditators' brain activity, showing how they can manipulate their brains to achieve states of unbounded consciousness. He suggests that mystical experience might be the common core of religions and advocates for seeking this unitive experience. Grosso posits that a scientific psychology focused on exploring extraordinary human states, like mystical experiences, could lead to profound societal changes, potentially ending the world as we know it.

Cover Story

Schoch To The System

This section details the work of geologist Robert Schoch regarding the age of the Great Sphinx. Schoch's research, prompted by John Anthony West's observations of water erosion marks, suggests the Sphinx is significantly older than the traditional dating of around 2400 BCE, possibly dating back to 5000 BCE or earlier. Schoch analyzed erosion patterns, subsurface weathering via seismic surveys, and climatic history. His findings have been met with resistance from orthodox Egyptologists, who tend to offer ad hoc explanations. Schoch maintains that science requires questioning accepted wisdom and plans to continue his research, which also extends to the controversial area of diffusionism and the study of pyramids, as explored in his books 'Voices of the Rocks' and 'Voyages of the Pyramid Builders'.

Reviews

This section features reviews of several books:

• The Science of Mind by Ernest Holmes: Described as an influential spiritual work on religious psychology.
• The Secret Teachings of All Ages: Reader's Edition by Manly P. Hall: A comprehensive encyclopedia of ancient mythology, symbolism, and esoteric teachings.
• Meditations on the Tarot by Anonymous: Praised as a comprehensive account of the 'perennial philosophy'.
• Tao Te Ching: The Definitive Edition by Jonathan Star: A verbatim translation of the Tao Te Ching, aiming to clarify its meaning.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sub Rosa include the questioning of established scientific and historical paradigms, the exploration of consciousness and mystical experiences, and the intersection of science with spirituality and alternative theories. The editorial stance, as articulated by Greg Taylor and Ian Lawton, is one of encouraging critical thinking, challenging orthodox views, and embracing debate on topics often considered controversial or taboo. The magazine champions the idea that genuine progress in knowledge comes from doubt and rigorous inquiry, rather than from unquestioned consensus.

This issue of Sub Rosa, dated June 2005, Volume 5, features a cover story focusing on geologist Robert Schoch's views on ancient structures, a profile of Terence McKenna, and an exploration of Stuart Hameroff's quantum consciousness hypothesis.

Cover Story: Robert Schoch on Yonaguni and the Sphinx

The cover story features an interview with geologist Robert Schoch, who discusses his research on ancient structures. Regarding the Yonaguni Monument off the coast of Japan, Schoch believes it is primarily a natural feature, with a slight possibility of some human use and subtle modification. He notes that while there is independent evidence of ancient human habitation on Yonaguni Island, this does not prove the monument itself is artificial.

Schoch also addresses the controversy surrounding the dating of the Great Sphinx of Giza. He stands by his analysis that the erosion patterns suggest the Sphinx predates the Great Pyramid, placing its quarrying in pre-dynastic times, rather than the traditional dynastic dating. He acknowledges that while occasional flash floods occur, the substantial weathering is only compatible with an initial date significantly older than the Fourth Dynasty. Schoch also touches upon his involvement with the book 'Voyages of the Pyramid Builders' and expresses that including structures like Newgrange as 'pyramid structures' is a way to discuss related monuments, not necessarily core pyramids.

He discusses his interactions with Egyptologist Zahi Hawass, stating that while Hawass disagrees with his Sphinx dating, their personal relationship is friendly and he has not been denied access to the Sphinx enclosure. Schoch believes Hawass's criticisms are primarily directed at the implications of his findings rather than an attempt to stifle research.

The New Book: Pyramid Quest

This section introduces Robert Schoch's new book, 'Pyramid Quest: Secrets of the Great Pyramid and the Dawn of Civilization'. The synopsis suggests the book uses scientific inquiry to investigate the Great Pyramid and proposes a hypothesis that civilization began thousands of years earlier than generally thought, offering a new perspective on human origins.

Profiler: The Hyper-Dimensional Ambassador: Terence McKenna

This extensive profile by Philip Coppens explores the life and work of Terence McKenna, a figure described as a guru who experienced an alternative reality and sought to bring awareness of it to our own. McKenna's journey began with a diagnosis of a brain tumor, leading him to question the role of experimental drug-taking. He studied native hallucinogenic drugs in India and the Amazon, focusing on DMT and psilocybin.

McKenna's central theory, presented in 'Food of the Gods', posits that psilocybin mushrooms played a crucial role in human evolution, enhancing visual acuity and stimulating language development. He viewed drug use not as recreational but as a spiritual practice, a means for the user to act as a priest maintaining a connection with the 'Otherworld' or 'Logos'. McKenna believed that DMT experiences were real, opening a doorway to another dimension inhabited by 'machine elves' or 'hyperspace creatures', who he suggested may have influenced ancient civilizations.

The article discusses McKenna's concept of 'Timewave Zero', a system predicting paradigm shifts and events, with a proposed end-date of December 21, 2012. It also touches upon his views on artificial intelligence, his critique of societal power structures that criminalize hallucinogens while promoting addictive substances, and his eventual physical collapse in 1999, which he described as a seizure that allowed him access to another dimension but ultimately proved fatal. He was given a six to nine months life expectancy but experienced remission before his death on April 3, 2000. The article concludes by listing several of McKenna's books and related media.

Features: The Quantum Mind of Stuart Hameroff

This section features an interview with Dr. Stuart Hameroff, M.D., Professor Emeritus at the University of Arizona, who is at the forefront of research combining consciousness and quantum physics. Hameroff, along with physicist Sir Roger Penrose, has proposed an alternative model of consciousness based on quantum computations within neuronal microtubules.

Hameroff explains that the prevalent paradigm views consciousness as computation in neurons and synapses, akin to computer bits. His 'quantum consciousness' hypothesis suggests that quantum computations within microtubules convert pre/sub-conscious possibilities into conscious moments. He defines microtubules as structural components within neurons that, in addition to providing support, also process information.

He discusses the concept of 'qualia' and its challenge to physicalism, agreeing with Frank Jackson's 'knowledge argument' but disagreeing with a purely informational explanation. Hameroff suggests that quantum information might confer qualia. He also speculates that his hypothesis could provide a model for anomalous experiences like Out of Body Experiences (OBEs) and Near Death Experiences (NDES), proposing that when metabolic driving of quantum coherence is lost, quantum information leaks into the universe's space-time geometry.

The interview addresses the film 'What the Bleep Do We Know!?', which features Hameroff and explores the intersection of consciousness, quantum mechanics, and mysticism. He explains that consciousness occurs at the boundary between the quantum subconscious and the classical world, and that hallucinogens may promote the quantum state. He also discusses the role of dendrites and gap junctions in mediating consciousness, forming 'hyper-neurons'.

Hameroff recounts how his research began with studying cell division and microtubules, leading him to hypothesize their role in consciousness. He acknowledges facing criticism but believes it's better than being ignored. He argues that skeptics should apply their scrutiny to conventional dogma as well as upstart hypotheses. He concludes by stating that consciousness exists at the fundamental level of the universe and that the prevalent paradigm forces consciousness into an illusory, out-of-the-loop epiphenomenon.

DVD Consciousness

This section highlights two DVDs related to consciousness: 'What the Bleep Do We Know!?' and 'Consciousness', a compilation featuring scientists and mystics, including Stuart Hameroff and David Chalmers.

Hackery/Quackery in Scientific American

This piece is a response by Stuart Hameroff to a skeptical article by Michael Shermer in Scientific American that criticized the film 'What the Bleep Do We Know!?' and the Penrose-Hameroff model. Hameroff defends his theory, which attributes consciousness to quantum computation in microtubules, and criticizes Shermer's approach.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around challenging conventional scientific and historical paradigms. The magazine features in-depth explorations of controversial theories regarding ancient civilizations (Yonaguni, Sphinx, Great Pyramid), the nature of consciousness and its potential connection to quantum physics, and the influence of psychedelic substances on human evolution and perception. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into alternative perspectives and a willingness to question established dogma, as evidenced by the inclusion of interviews with researchers like Schoch and Hameroff, and the profile of Terence McKenna. There is a clear interest in the intersection of science, spirituality, and the unexplained.

Title: Sub Rosa
Issue Date: June 2005
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Sub Rosa magazine features a collection of reviews and previews focusing on alternative history, archaeology, esoteric subjects, and related media.

Reviews

Pyramid Quest: Secrets of the Great Pyramid and the Dawn of Civilization

The review discusses Robert Schoch and Robert Aquinas McNally's book 'Pyramid Quest'. It highlights Schoch's controversial hypothesis that erosion on the Sphinx suggests an earlier construction date for the Giza Plateau. The book recap Schoch's introduction to Giza and the Sphinx controversy, and outlines the orthodox view of Egypt's early history. It also examines various unorthodox theories about the Great Pyramid, ultimately finding them lacking. Schoch and McNally propose that Giza has astronomical and initiatory roots reaching back into pre-history, relying on analyses by Livio Stecchini and Thomas Brophy. The reviewer notes the book's strengths in presenting both orthodox and alternative views but expresses reservations about the depth of detail on certain supporting evidence, such as the Nabta Playa site and geological investigations, and the limited role of Schoch's personal geological opinions. The book is recommended for newcomers to the subject but may disappoint more informed readers seeking deeper exploration of established alternative theories.

Voyages of the Pyramid Builders

This section reviews Robert Schoch and Robert Aquinas McNally's 2003 book, 'Voyages of the Pyramid Builders'. The reviewer frames it as an extension of the cover story on Schoch and the 'Pyramid Quest' review. The book is described as an investigation into 'pyramid cultures' worldwide and their potential common source, touching upon hyper-diffusionism and Atlantis. It begins with the Giza Plateau and surveys pyramid-building cultures globally. While acknowledging some weaker arguments, such as the inclusion of Newgrange as a pyramid-building culture, the review praises the book's research, which is presented as up-to-date and not relying on outdated 'alternative history' quotes. The book delves into the mythical foundations of pyramid building and explores the peopling of the New World, discussing trans-oceanic influence and the possibility of catastrophism, particularly cometary impacts. The reviewer finds the book an excellent summary of current 'respectable' research into diffusionism and catastrophism, though it lacks detailed referencing. An appendix on 'Redating the Great Sphinx of Giza' is also mentioned as a valuable addition. The book is considered a readable and fascinating popular account of these subjects.

Donnie Darko: Director's Cut DVD

The review covers the Director's Cut DVD of the film 'Donnie Darko'. It describes the movie as an esoteric, cult film with a plot involving time travel and extra dimensions. The Director's Cut includes deleted scenes and excerpts from 'The Philosophy of Time Travel' book featured in the film, offering further explanation. The review notes the inclusion of commentary from director Richard Kelly and Kevin Smith. It points out a change in the soundtrack, with INXS's 'Never Tear Us Apart' replacing Echo & The Bunnymen's 'Killing Moon' as the opening track, which some fans might find off-putting. The DVD package also includes a production diary and storyboard features. The reviewer recommends the Director's Cut for fans and discerning viewers with esoteric leanings.

Book: Supernatural by Graham Hancock

This section previews Graham Hancock's upcoming book, 'Supernatural', set for release in October 2005. The book is said to investigate the sudden development of human qualities like religion and symbolism around 50,000 years ago. Hancock's journey takes him from prehistoric caves in Europe and rock shelters in South Africa to the Amazon rainforest, where he explores the concept of 'supernatural' beings and their potential role as ancient teachers, questioning Darwinian evolution.

Movie: War of the Worlds

This section announces the upcoming film 'War of the Worlds', directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Cruise, set for release on June 29, 2005. Spielberg expresses his preference for action-packed films like this, describing it as a story of warfare between humans and extraterrestrials. The movie is the third major adaptation of H. G. Wells' novel.

Poetry

Spiral Path by Cernig

A poem titled 'Spiral Path' by Cernig is presented, exploring themes of cyclical existence, nature, and personal journey through various metaphors and life experiences. The poem repeatedly uses the refrain "I will flow into the sea one day, Yet still I have my source" (or variations thereof), emphasizing a connection to origins and a continuous flow of existence.

Other Content

Pigmy Love Circus

Promotional material for 'Pigmy Love Circus', featuring Danny Carey from TOOL, is displayed on the cover, along with an image related to 'The Power of Beef'.

Da Vinci In America by Greg Taylor

An advertisement for Greg Taylor's book 'Da Vinci In America' is featured, presented as a guide to 'The Solomon Key'. It promises to reveal Freemasonry's influence on the founding of the United States, esoteric constructions of Washington D.C., and the secret society behind political figures. A quote from Graham Hancock praises Taylor's work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of alternative history, ancient mysteries, esoteric beliefs, and the questioning of established scientific and historical paradigms. There is a clear interest in unconventional theories regarding ancient civilizations, archaeology, and the nature of human consciousness. The editorial stance appears to favor in-depth reviews and discussions of these topics, providing readers with access to research and ideas that challenge mainstream perspectives. The inclusion of poetry and film/music reviews suggests a broader cultural interest beyond purely academic or historical subjects.