Tid Og Rom - 1983 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of R: Tid og Rom, number 2 from 1983, is the member organ of FI (Fremmedvitenskapelig Informasjon) and focuses on parapsychology, ufology, and astronomy. The cover features a stylized 'R' with an infinity symbol and the subtitle 'PARAPSYKOLOGI Spekulasjon og kritikk'. The main illustration depicts a surreal scene with figures, a crashed tire, and a cosmic background, visually hinting at themes of abduction or unusual phenomena.

Editorial and Content

The editorial section, "REDAKSJONELT," addresses a delayed delivery of the issue to subscribers, attributing it to payment issues and a misunderstanding regarding advance payment for subscriptions. It also mentions a decision to print fewer copies of the remaining issues in 1983 due to reduced sales activity during the winter months. The editors apologize for an error in the previous issue that misstated the year for their new membership year and for forgetting to credit Sigurd Rønning for his articles on "What is Parapsychology" and "Pyremysticism." The editorial concludes by wishing readers a good autumn season.

The table of contents, "INNHOLD," lists several articles, including:

• "Forutintatt om LIV i cosmos" (Prejudiced about LIFE in cosmos) by Sigurd Rønning.
• "Første amerikanske kvinnelige astronaut" (First American female astronaut).
• "Kryssordløsning" (Crossword solution).
• "Parapsykologi - Spekulasjon og kritikk" (Parapsychology - Speculation and critique).
• "Solsystemet Vega" (The Vega system).
• "Humanoiden - Kroppsfunksjon og logikk" (The Humanoid - Bodily function and logic).
• "Filosofiske betraktninger" (Philosophical considerations).
• "Leserbrev" (Letters to the editor).
• "Pioneer 10 på vei mot Orion" (Pioneer 10 on its way to Orion).
• "Rapportnytt lokalt" (Report news local).
• "Rapportnytt globalt" (Report news global).
• "UFO i Trøndelag 2" (UFO in Trøndelag 2).
• "Viktig" (Important).

Articles and Themes

"Forutintatt om LIV i cosmos" by Sigurd Rønning

This article, the first part of a longer piece, critiques the prevailing skepticism in scientific circles regarding the existence of intelligent extraterrestrial life. Rønning argues that terms like "increasing skepticism" and "more scientists" are vague and can be used to create an impression of a radical shift in opinion that may not be substantial. He contends that a mere 10-40% increase in skepticism or in the number of skeptical scientists does not necessarily signify a major change, especially if the base numbers are low. Rønning challenges the idea that the lack of successful telecommunication contact with extraterrestrial civilizations is proof of their non-existence. He suggests several alternative explanations, including the possibility that aliens communicate telepathically, that they too have failed to establish contact, or that signals are lost or distorted over vast distances. He also posits that human signals might not be interesting enough for extraterrestrial intelligences to respond to. Rønning presents "INNVENDING 1" and "INNVENDING 2" to counter the idea that Earth is uniquely suited for life and that the absence of contact implies non-existence. He argues that telescopes are limited in their ability to observe distant planets and that even nearby stars like Alpha Centauri are difficult to assess for habitability. He criticizes the notion that Earth's conditions are special, pointing out the vast number of stars and planets in the universe. He also discusses the possibility of evolution occurring on other planets over longer periods. Rønning concludes that it is more scientifically sound to consider the existence of extraterrestrial life as "relatively probable" rather than improbable.

"Første amerikanske Kvinnelege Astronaut" (First American Female Astronaut)

This article reports on Sally Ride's historic space mission on June 18, 1983, as the first American woman in space aboard the space shuttle Challenger. It highlights her Norwegian heritage through her maternal grandmother's family in Norway. The article details her six-day mission, which involved deploying and testing communication satellites. It notes the significant media attention Ride received in the USA and discusses the societal implications of a woman in space. Ride, who had dreamed of being an astronaut since childhood, was selected by NASA in 1978 when the agency opened its doors to female astronauts. She is described as highly competent, holding a doctorate in physics with a specialization in lasers and astronomy, and having undergone rigorous physical and psychological training.

"PARAPSYKOIOGI - Spekulasjon og kritikk" (Parapsychology - Speculation and Critique)

This section introduces a longer article by Tore Fredriksen, an essay on the philosophy of science and epistemology. The article aims to explore the reasons behind the scientific resistance to parapsychology. Fredriksen notes that parapsychology has been a controversial discipline for nearly a century, with most scientists remaining skeptical. He argues that parapsychology is important for two reasons: if its claims are true, it has profound implications for science and culture; if it is wrong, it raises questions about the validity of its experimental methods. The article intends to examine the arguments used by antagonists of parapsychology and their responses, focusing on scientific-philosophical and epistemological aspects.

Other Content

The issue also includes a crossword puzzle solution (TR 1-83), a section on UFOs in Trøndelag, and mentions of astronomical topics like the Vega system and the Pioneer 10 mission. The illustration for the cover is by Einar Larsen, and the magazine is published by Fl's forlag.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific and philosophical debate surrounding parapsychology and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, contrasted with the factual reporting of space exploration achievements like Sally Ride's mission. The editorial stance appears to be one that encourages open-mindedness towards phenomena that challenge conventional scientific paradigms, while still adhering to critical analysis. The magazine actively questions established scientific skepticism, particularly in the fields of ufology and parapsychology, and advocates for a more nuanced and less dogmatic approach from the scientific community. There is a clear emphasis on presenting alternative viewpoints and challenging what the editors perceive as narrow-mindedness within mainstream science.

This issue of "Fremmedvitenskapelig Informasjon" (Fremmedvitenskapelig Informasjon) from 1983, issue 2, titled "Tid og Rom" (Time and Space), delves deeply into the controversial field of parapsychology, examining its scientific validity and the philosophical arguments surrounding it. The magazine also features an article on the discovery of a particle swarm around the star Vega and a discussion on humanoids.

The Debate on Parapsychology

The issue presents a comprehensive exploration of the arguments for and against parapsychology. The introductory section of the parapsychology discussion outlines the author's intent to analyze the philosophical underpinnings of the debate, distinguishing between speculative and critical approaches and addressing epistemological issues.

Defining Parapsychology

Parapsychology is defined as the study of paranormal phenomena, primarily telepathy, clairvoyance, and precognition, collectively termed ESP (Extra Sensory Perception) by Dr. Joseph Bank Rhine. Psychokinesis (influencing objects with the mind) is also included, with paranormal phenomena referred to as psi-phenomena.

Historical Context and Resistance

The interest in these phenomena peaked in the late 19th century with the spiritualist movement, leading to the establishment of The Society for Psychic Research (SPR) in London in 1882, followed by a similar society in the USA in 1885. Despite the involvement of prominent scientists and philosophers, parapsychology has consistently faced significant resistance and skepticism from the scientific community. This resistance is often rooted in historical instances of fraud and psychopathology within the field, as well as a general adherence to established scientific paradigms.

Arguments Against Parapsychology

The article systematically presents several scientific-philosophical arguments against parapsychology:

• Ockham's Razor: This principle, formulated by Wilhelm of Ockham, suggests that simpler hypotheses should be preferred over more complex ones when explaining phenomena. Critics argue that parapsychological hypotheses introduce new, unproven principles, making them unnecessarily complex compared to naturalistic explanations.
• Protocol Errors: Concerns are raised about the potential for researchers' expectations and biases to influence experimental results, leading to unintentional errors in data recording and interpretation. The Rosenthal experiment with rats is cited as an example of how expectations can affect outcomes.
• Statistics: Criticisms are leveled against the statistical methods used in parapsychological experiments. While some statistical analyses have been validated, ongoing debates question their interpretation and the possibility of "statistical art products" arising from flawed experimental design or selective reporting.
• Scientific Validity: The article questions the very criteria for scientific validity. Arguments are made that parapsychology fails to meet established standards due to the lack of repeatable experiments, the difficulty in defining its phenomena, and the absence of a unifying theoretical framework.

Counter-Arguments and Defense of Parapsychology

Parapsychologists and proponents of the field offer counter-arguments to these criticisms:

• Challenges to Ockham's Razor: The difficulty in formulating objective criteria for simplicity and the justification for preferring simpler hypotheses are questioned. It is argued that the assumption of nature's simplicity is itself problematic.
• Methodological Rigor: The article acknowledges that while some early parapsychological research was flawed, modern research aims for greater rigor. The Stanford Research Institute's work on Uri Geller is mentioned as an example of a more controlled study, though it also faced significant criticism.
• Nature of Scientific Explanation: The necessity of explanation as a criterion for science is debated. Drawing parallels with quantum mechanics, it is argued that science can study phenomena even if they are not fully explainable or deterministic.
• Testability and Falsifiability: The concept of testability is central to scientific hypotheses. However, it is argued that some hypotheses, particularly in parapsychology, may be difficult to falsify or verify due to the nature of the phenomena themselves, leading to accusations of them being pseudohypotheses.
• Historical Precedent: Parallels are drawn with historical scientific endeavors, such as the study of ether drift or Kepler's early work, which were initially met with skepticism or based on concepts later discarded, suggesting that resistance to new ideas is not unique to parapsychology.

The Role of Philosophy of Science

The article highlights the importance of philosophy of science in understanding the debate. It suggests that many critics of parapsychology may not fully grasp the nuances of theoretical pluralism and the limitations of simplistic criteria for scientific acceptance. The emotional nature of the debate is also noted.

Key Factors in Resistance

The author identifies several factors contributing to the resistance against parapsychology:

1. Existence of simpler, more plausible naturalistic hypotheses.
2. Lack of strong theoretical support.
3. Historical origins in superstition.
4. Use of "metaphysical" concepts.
5. Lack of explanatory power.
6. The "unreal" character of psi-phenomena.
7. Lack of testability, making verification or falsification difficult.
8. Use of ad hoc hypotheses.

The author considers points 1 and 7 to be the strongest arguments from antagonists.

Solsystemet Vega (The Vega Solar System)

This section reports on the discovery made by the American satellite IRAS (Infrared Astronomical Satellite). IRAS detected a swarm of large particles orbiting the star Vega, located about 26 light-years away. This discovery provides the first direct evidence of objects orbiting a star other than our Sun. The size of these objects is estimated to range from the size of a shotgun pellet to that of planets in our solar system. The outermost observed body is approximately eleven billion kilometers from Vega's center. The total mass of the observed system is comparable to that of our own solar system. Vega is described as a relatively young star, only one billion years old, compared to our Sun's five billion years. Its surface temperature is 6000 degrees Celsius. The article notes that the system is too young for life to have developed but expresses anticipation for future discoveries, especially with the advent of space telescopes.

Humanoider: Kroppsfunksjon og Logikk (Humanoids: Bodily Function and Logic)

Written by Einar Larsen, this article explores the question of whether extraterrestrial civilizations share the same physical structure as humans. It posits that physical forms are a result of climatic and environmental conditions on a planet, leading to diverse life forms. However, the author suggests that despite potential physical differences, intelligent civilizations capable of technological advancement would likely share certain fundamental physical characteristics necessary for their work. The article references an illustration of a humanoid, as remembered by contact persons, noting a disproportionately large cranium and a slender physique.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics on the fringes of conventional science, including parapsychology, extraterrestrial life, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting detailed arguments and counter-arguments from various perspectives, particularly in the realm of scientific philosophy and the demarcation of science. The publication seems to encourage critical thinking and a willingness to question established scientific paradigms, as evidenced by its in-depth analysis of parapsychology and its historical context.

This issue of "Fremmedvitenskapelig Informasjon" (Extraterrestrial Scientific Information), titled "Tid og Rom 2 1983" (Time and Space 2 1983), is a Swedish publication focusing on UFO phenomena, space exploration, and philosophical/psychological topics related to human existence and intelligence. The magazine features several detailed reports of UFO sightings from various locations, alongside articles that delve into the nature of intelligence, the logic of biological design, and a philosophical exploration of human flaws.

Articles and Content

Cover Story: PIONEER 10 - ON THE WAY TO ORION

The cover story highlights the American space probe Pioneer 10, which, eleven years after its launch, had passed the boundaries of the solar system and was heading towards the constellation Orion. The article mentions that the probe carries a message for distant civilizations, including a diagram of a man and a woman. It details the probe's journey and its significance as a messenger of humanity's existence. The article also references an artwork by Einar Larsen depicting the planet Neptune as seen from its moon Nereid, suggesting a future expedition.

Philosophical Reflections: The Fall

Authored by Einar Larsen, this section delves into the concept of human fallibility, often summarized by the phrase "it is human to err." Larsen questions the origin of human sin, moving beyond the traditional biblical narrative of Adam and Eve. He suggests that perhaps an action, rather than a forbidden fruit, led to a reduction in humanity's innate paranormal abilities and their connection to nature. This 'fall' is posited as the reason for isolation, self-absorption, and the drive for personal power. The author speculates that early human civilizations possessed extraordinary abilities that were lost after this event.

Logic and Similarities

This section explores the logical design of biological organisms, drawing parallels between humans and other life forms. It argues that the bilateral symmetry, the placement of sensory organs (eyes, ears), and the number of limbs are dictated by functional logic that would likely apply to life on other planets. The article posits that the two-legged, upright stance provides better stability and overview, while the placement of arms allows for maximum manipulation. It suggests that extraterrestrial beings, if they exist, would likely share fundamental biological similarities due to these universal logical principles.

Commentary and Clarification on "Child Language Learning"

Sigurd Rønning clarifies his earlier statement that "children generally have less perceptive ability than adults." He explains that perceptive ability is based on the capacity to directly and indirectly assess sensory input. He defines intelligence as the ability to derive insight, particularly through secondary or intellectually derived assessment. The article discusses the concept of IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and how it is measured relative to age. Rønning challenges the notion of a fixed IQ, suggesting that intelligence can be enhanced through various techniques, including those proposed by L. Ron Hubbard in "Dianetics" and Tony Buzan's work on improving cognitive abilities.

Local Reports: Rapportnytt Lokalt

This section compiles several brief reports of UFO sightings from different locations:

• Orkdal, Norway (September 11, 1981): A strange, yellow, blinking light was observed descending from high altitude.
• Hamar, Norway (July 8, 1982): A woman observed a bright object the size of the moon that appeared and disappeared.
• Lysaker, Norway (October 8, 1982): A student reported a UFO that caused streetlights to flicker.
• Ofotfjorden, Norway (Date not specified): A man and his son saw a cylindrical, grey UFO moving at high speed.
• Hällefors, Sweden (October 15, 1981): Multiple witnesses described a large, cigar-shaped object with glowing windows and a red glow, emitting a motor sound. The Swedish UFO organization UFO-Sverige investigated and ruled out conventional aircraft and airships.
• Poland (September 5, 1980): An ambulance crew observed a large, red, spherical object that followed their vehicle closely, despite the ambulance increasing its speed.

Global Reports: Rapportnytt Globalt

• Poland (September 5, 1980): This report details the ambulance crew's encounter with a large, red, spherical object that seemed to be intelligenty controlled and maintained a constant distance from the ambulance.

Letters to the Editor: LESERBREV

A reader named Morten Kittelsen thanks the editorial staff for the magazine and contributes 500 SEK to a support fund for the organization. He also expresses a desire for more articles on astronomy, a request that the editorial staff acknowledges and promises to address in future issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained phenomena of UFOs, the potential for extraterrestrial life, and the philosophical and psychological aspects of human existence. The magazine adopts a stance of open inquiry, presenting witness accounts and scientific/philosophical discussions without definitive conclusions, but with a clear interest in the possibilities beyond conventional understanding. There is an underlying belief in the logic of nature and the universe, suggesting that patterns observed on Earth might be universal. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting awareness and discussion on these complex topics, encouraging readers to consider alternative perspectives on science, philosophy, and the unknown.

Title: Fremmedvitenskapelig Informasjon
Issue: 2
Volume: 1983
Date: 1983
Publisher: Fremmedvitenskapelig Informasjon
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of "Fremmedvitenskapelig Informasjon" (Fremmed Science Information) delves into various unexplained phenomena, with a significant focus on UFO sightings and the controversial Hessdalen phenomenon in Norway. The magazine presents detailed accounts of sightings, witness testimonies, photographic evidence, and theoretical discussions, alongside a debate between skeptics and proponents of extraterrestrial explanations.

Article: UFO in Trøndel

The main cover story, "UFO I TRØNDEL" (UFO in Trøndel), highlights the ongoing investigation into UFO sightings in the Hessdalen region of Norway. The article notes that this may be the concluding piece in their coverage of the Trøndelag case due to a lack of new information, but promises to return if further developments occur.

Hessdalen Sightings and Theories

Several specific sightings from Hessdalen are detailed:

• October 20, 1982, 07:40: A bus driver observed a luminous, oval, metallic object with a red light hovering near a TV mast, moving slowly northward.
• October 26, 1982, 19:37: An oblong object appeared in the southern sky, moving with a rocking motion, similar to a piece of ash flying in the wind, and emitting a red blinking light.
• November 19, 1982, 21:36: Ole Lillevold reported seeing a blank object that turned red and followed a railway line before ascending. The object was described as the size of a handball.

The article explores various theories for these phenomena, including atmospheric electrical discharges, electromagnetic fields, and the possibility of alien spacecraft recharging in the area. The latter theory is considered the most plausible, given the repeated sightings of objects hovering over the same location in the magnetically active and mineral-rich Hessdalen area.

Material Evidence

Unexplained material has been found in connection with these sightings. A piece of material from Hessdalen, sent by Jon Aspaas, is described as very light, flat-pressed, black on the outside with a lighter core, and flammable. Material from the Arendal district is oval, potato-like, metallic with a specific gravity of 5-6, and extremely hard.

Debate: Asbjørn Hallan vs. Knut Aasheim

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a public debate regarding the Hessdalen phenomenon. Asbjørn Hallan, writing in "MOM, Arbeiderbladet," dismisses the Hessdalen sightings as "UFO hysteria" and attributes them to inbreeding among the local population, leading to "visual hallucinations." He suggests that people in remote areas are more superstitious.

Knut Aasheim, writing in response, strongly refutes Hallan's claims. Aasheim argues that there is no evidence of hysteria and that the Hessdalen residents are not more superstitious than people elsewhere. He criticizes Hallan's unsubstantiated claims about inbreeding and hallucinations, calling them "absurd" and "defamatory." Aasheim points out the widespread nature of UFO observations globally and questions Hallan's expertise.

Other Sightings and Information

• France: The magazine recounts a sighting by Patricia Monin near Pas-de-Case on January 17, 1977. She photographed a hovering UFO, described as a black, unpolished, four-story building-like object with a red-orange ring, which emitted yellow light and briefly set a tree on fire before disappearing.
• New Zealand: A 15-year-old student anonymously reported and photographed a luminous object near Rataiti in May 1977. The object moved silently and disappeared suddenly.
• Arendal: Similar unexplained light phenomena have been observed in Arendal, though less frequently than in Trøndelag.

Astrological Association and Subscription Information

The magazine also includes information about the Norsk Astrologisk Forening (Norwegian Astrological Association) and their upcoming meetings. Additionally, it announces a price increase for subscriptions starting in 1984 and provides updated contact information and details about a support fund for the organization.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and the scientific and public response to such events. The magazine appears to present a platform for reporting and discussing these phenomena, while also engaging with skeptical viewpoints and encouraging further investigation. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and arguments from various perspectives, particularly highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the Hessdalen phenomenon.