UFO Mail - No 229 - 2016

Magazine Overview

Title: Skandinavisk UFO Information
Issue: 229
Date: December 6, 2016
Publisher: Danmarks UFO Forening

This issue of Skandinavisk UFO Information, dated December 6, 2016, features a prominent article titled "Videnskab, pseudovidenskab og science fiction" (Science, Pseudoscience, and Science Fiction) by Kim Møller Hansen. The magazine delves into the complex relationship between scientific inquiry, unsubstantiated claims, and imaginative storytelling, particularly within the context of ufology.

Science vs. Pseudoscience

The article begins by defining modern science as a method-driven process that seeks new knowledge through a four-step approach: posing a question, formulating a testable hypothesis, analyzing its consequences, and conducting experiments to verify or refute it. In contrast, pseudoscience is characterized as "false science" not necessarily because its claims are false, but because its methodology is unscientific. Pseudoscience often stops at the hypothesis stage, creating claims that are difficult or impossible to test and thus refute. While both science and pseudoscience may address similar questions, their approaches differ fundamentally. Science aims for truth, even if complex or unappealing, whereas pseudoscience often provides information that people want to hear.

The Role of Science Fiction

Science fiction is presented as a genre inspired by scientific advancements, which uses scientific jargon but always pushes boundaries with 'what if' scenarios. Crucially, science fiction authors acknowledge their work as fiction. The article highlights a significant overlap and mutual inspiration between science fiction and pseudoscience. This is exemplified by the symbiotic relationship between ufology and Hollywood, and authors like Dan Brown who incorporate pseudoscientific elements and conspiracy theories into their novels as if they were established facts.

Andrew May's "Pseudoscience and Science Fiction"

The review extensively discusses Andrew May's book, "Pseudoscience and Science Fiction." May, who holds a Ph.D. in astrophysics and has a career as a freelance writer and scientific consultant, is presented as an expert on the subject. His book is noted for providing numerous examples of the connections between science fiction and pseudoscience, demonstrating a deep understanding of science fiction history. The book's chapters cover topics such as Charles Fort and the Forteans, Anomalous Phenomena, High-Tech Paranoia, Flying Saucers, Mind Power, Space Drives and Anti-gravity, Technology of the Ancients, and Conspiracy Theories.

UFO Descriptions and Media Influence

A section titled "Fra raketter til kæmpestore, mørke trekanter" (From Rockets to Giant, Dark Triangles) explores the evolution of reported UFO shapes. Initially, after World War II, UFOs were often described as rockets and torpedoes. In the 1950s, descriptions shifted to resemble science fiction machines, predominantly saucer-shaped and cigar-shaped. A major change occurred in the late 1970s with the emergence of descriptions of large, dark triangles with pulsating lights, reminiscent of the Star Destroyer from George Lucas' Star Wars. This triangular form became more widespread after 1988, coinciding with the USAF's unveiling of futuristic stealth aircraft like the F-117 Nighthawk and B-2 Spirit, and further popularized by the TV series "The X-Files" from 1993 onwards.

The article points out that many prominent ufologists, including George Adamski, Donald E. Keyhoe, and Whitley Strieber, began their careers as science fiction writers before becoming known for promoting UFO stories and pseudoscience as fact. The cover of the "Amazing Stories" magazine from December 1930, featuring aliens with large heads, is cited as an example of early science fiction influence on UFO imagery.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Andrew May's book is praised for being well-written, easy to read, entertaining, and well-illustrated, with useful references and a good index. The magazine also lists several other books that explore the connections between science fiction and ufology, including works by Robbie Graham, Aaron John Gulyas, Kim Møller Hansen, Fred Nadis, Mark Pilkington, and Nick Redfern.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of claims made within ufology and related fields. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific methodology and critical thinking, distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and the unsubstantiated narratives of pseudoscience and speculative fiction. The magazine emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins and influences behind popular beliefs, particularly how science fiction has shaped perceptions of UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena, and how pseudoscientific claims often mimic fictional narratives.