UFO-Vision - 1990-91

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-Vision
Issue: 1990-91
Type: Yearbook for UFO Literature
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0902-2341
Price: kr. 78,00 (+ kr.12,00 postage and handling)

This issue of UFO-Vision, dated 1990-91, is a comprehensive yearbook dedicated to UFO literature. It features a cover illustration depicting figures running through a forest towards a bright light in the sky, with the main headline "Bogvandring i ufo-junglen" (Book Wanderings in the UFO Jungle).

Editorial and Publication Details

The magazine is edited by Kim Møller Hansen, with translations by Flemming Rasmussen and transcription by Flemming Rasmussen and Inge H. Svane. The cover illustration is by Sven Aage Voigt, and the back cover illustration is by Hal Crawford. The publication is produced by Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI) and is based in Gentofte, Denmark. Contact information, including a postgiro number and telephone number, is provided. The text is set using Century Schoolbook, Avant Garde, and Sans fonts, printed on a Hewlett Packard DeskJet, and printed by Micro-Forma, Odense.

Content Highlights

Book Reviews and Discussions:

The issue delves into a wide array of books and periodicals related to UFOs and the paranormal. A significant portion is dedicated to reviewing "UFOs A History: 1946: The Ghost Rockets" by Loren E. Gross, a third edition of his work compiling information on the Scandinavian 'ghost rocket' mystery of 1946. The review notes that while Gross has gathered extensive material, he lacks detailed knowledge of local Swedish conditions and Swedish defense archives.

Another major focus is the "MJ-12 documents," which are discussed in relation to Timothy Good's book "Above Top Secret. The worldwide UFO Cover-Up." The review highlights the controversy surrounding these documents, with some ufologists considering them genuine and others dismissing them as fakes. The "Fund for UFO Research" financed an investigation into the matter, concluding the documents are authentic.

The controversial Gulf Breeze sightings and photographs are also examined, referencing "The Gulf Breeze UFO Photographs: An Historical Record" by Robert D. Boyd. The review notes the skepticism surrounding the Walters' photos, with evidence suggesting they might be hoaxes, though proponents maintain the observations themselves are genuine.

Science Fiction and Related Topics:

The issue explores the intersection of UFO literature and science fiction. A review of "Star Trek. Verdens populæreste SF-serie" by Nicolas Barbano discusses the phenomenon of Star Trek fandom. A Danish science fiction bibliography from 1741-1989 by Klaus Johansen and Henry Madsen is also mentioned.

Books for Young Readers:

Kim Møller Hansen's book "Nærkontakt med ufoer" (Close Encounters with UFOs), aimed at 9-12 year olds, is reviewed. The book is praised for its engaging presentation of UFO phenomena, including close encounters and physical traces, while also addressing potential hoaxes and distinguishing between fact and fiction.

Other Publications and Organizations:

Several other books are briefly mentioned or reviewed, including works on parapsychology, extraterrestrials, and the occult. The issue also highlights Andersen Bogservice, a non-profit organization that distributes catalogs of books on UFOs, cosmology, mysteries, and the paranormal. They have also published bibliographies and books on cryptozoology and Uri Geller.

Specific Book Mentions:

• "UFOs A History" series by Loren E. Gross: Multiple volumes covering different years are listed.
• "The Goblin Universe" by Ted Holiday: Discusses UFO phenomena in relation to sea serpents and mysterious creatures.
• "Extra-Terrestrials Among Us" by George C. Andrews: Another book on UFOs.
• "UFO Lexicon. Wordbook of Terms Employed In UFO Research" by Hilary Evans and John Spencer: A glossary of ufological terms.
• "Hessdalsrapporten" (Hessdalen Report) by Jan S. Krogh: A summary of investigations into light phenomena in Hessdalen, Norway.
• "Vitenskab og verdensbilder" (Science and Worldviews): An article collection from Forlaget Ariadne with some UFO-related content.
• "Moderne overtro" (Modern Superstition) by Jon Sandvik: Critically examines New Age phenomena.
• "Mystiske steder", "Overnaturlige evner", "Spøgelser og genfærd", "På rejse med sjælen", "Gæster fra rummet": Danish editions of Time-Life Books' "Mysteries of the Unknown" series.
• "Verdens største mysterier", "Verdens største spioner", "Verdens værste mordere": Books from the "World's Greatest" series by Roth.
• "Parapsychology And The UFO" by Manfred Cassirer.
• "Don't Look Up!" by Danny B. Gordon & Paul Dellinger.
• "To Catch A Flying Star. A Scientific Theory of UFOs" by John Ackerman.
• "Ufologie. Theorien und Tatsachen über Fliegende Untertassen" by Dieter von Reeken.
• "Der Unglaubliche Flug Der JAL-1628, Alaska 17.11.1986" by Bruce Maccabee.
• "Beiträge Zur UFO-forschung. Band 3." edited by R. Henke.
• "Manifest eines Kosmischen NEW-AGE Bewusstseins" and "Ausserirdische und die Friedenssehnsucht der Erdenmenschen" by Maarten Dillinger.
• "UFOs Und Ihr Zeuge Christus" by Rudolf Schäfer.
• "Underground Alien Bases" and "The Ultimate Deception" by Commander X.
• "The Philadelphia Experiment & Other UFO Conspiracies" by Brad Steiger.
• "Mystiske dyr. En Guide til information om søslanger, havuhyrer, afskyelige snemænd og andet godt" by Lars Thomas.
• "Mirakelmanden Uri Geller. Beretningen om et mediefænomen" by Willy Wegner.
• "Uninvited Guests" by Richard Hall: A historical account of UFO observations and encounters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a broad interest in UFO phenomena, ranging from historical cases like the ghost rockets to contemporary debates about documents and sightings. There's a clear distinction made between serious ufological research and speculative or pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to investigate rather than blindly accept claims, as exemplified by Kim Møller Hansen's motto: "he does not believe in everything, but everything should be investigated!" The publication also engages with the science fiction genre, recognizing its role in exploring future possibilities and human imagination.

Title: UFO-VISION
Issue: 1990-91
Volume: 12
Date: 1990-91
Publisher: UFO-VISION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Cover Headline: Jordlys: Videnskab eller afsløring? (Earth Lights: Science or Revelation?)

This issue of UFO-VISION delves into various aspects of UFO research, book reviews, and historical cases, with a particular focus on the 'earth lights' theory and crop circle phenomena.

Book Reviews and Articles

Earth Lights Revelation: UFOs and Mystery Lightform Phenomena

The issue features an extensive review of Greg Long's book, which analyzes Paul Devereux's 'earth lights' theory. Devereux posits that UFOs are natural, geological phenomena, possibly linked to seismic activity and 'fault zones.' He suggests 'earth lights' could be a new energy source for the 21st century and proposes the 'tectonic strain theory' (TST) as an explanation for UFOs, linking them to phenomena like ball lightning and marsh gas. Devereux also controversially dismisses alien abduction research as a 'witch hunt' and a 'communist artifact.' The reviewer, Greg Long, finds Devereux's theories interesting but criticizes his condescending tone and dismissive attitude towards other researchers.

Long's review also highlights Devereux's compilation of 'earth light' observations from various locations in the US and England, noting similarities that suggest a common underlying cause. However, Devereux cannot provide a definitive physical explanation, stating, 'We do not understand the process.'

Examining the Earthlight Theory (The Yakima UFO Microcosm)

This section reviews M. Birdsall's examination of Greg Long's book, which focuses on hundreds of reported 'colored lights' in the Yakima Indian Reservation. Long applies the 'earth lights' theory and the 'tectonic strain theory' to these phenomena. The reviewer praises Long's work for its thorough analysis and for opening new avenues for UFO research, even if the reviewer personally does not subscribe to the 'earth lights' theory.

Fatima. A Close Encounter of the Worst Kind?

David Barclay's book is reviewed, which examines the 1915-1917 Fatima incident from a UFO perspective, stripping away the religious aspects. The review questions whether advanced technology or a divine intervention caused the events, and notes Barclay's work highlights how UFOlogists have 'hijacked' mysteries.

Domstensfallet. En svensk närkontakt 1958

This review discusses a booklet by Clas Svahn and Anders Liljegren detailing a 1958 'close encounter' case in Domsten, Sweden. The case involved two young men who reported seeing a disk-shaped object and small, grey beings. The review reveals that the case was later exposed as a hoax, with the witnesses or their families admitting to the deception.

The Circles Effect and Its Mysteries

This review covers George Terence Meaden's book on crop circles. Meaden, a known figure in English ufology, has investigated crop circles since 1980. The book discusses various theories, including those involving pranksters, helicopters, and whirlwinds, but Meaden leans towards UFOs or plasma phenomena as potential causes. The review notes that no definitive explanation for the circles has been found, and Meaden's work is considered valuable documentation.

Circular Evidence. A Detailed Investigation of the Flattened Swirled Crops Phenomenon

Pat Delgado and Colin Andrews' book is reviewed, documenting crop circle phenomena in Southern England. The authors recorded numerous rings and interviewed farmers. They observed rings appearing overnight without any discernible cause, leading them to consider 'unknown intelligences' as a possibility.

Controversy of the Circles. An investigation of the crop circles mystery

This review discusses a booklet by Paul Fuller and Jenny Randles, which examines crop circles and their potential connection to UFO phenomena. The authors explore various theories, including those of UFOlogists and meteorologists, and discuss the possibility of hoaxes. While acknowledging some UFO observations in areas with crop circles, they conclude there is no direct link.

The UFO Report 1990

Edited by Tim Good, this book is described as a comprehensive overview of UFO observations, books, and articles from the past year. The review notes that the book contains both good and bad chapters, with some factual errors that cast doubt on certain cases.

Perspectives

John Spencer's book is reviewed, which offers a highly skeptical view of ufology. The reviewer finds Spencer's approach overly critical and notes that he often attacks the way ufologists treat witnesses, likening it to a 'witch hunt.' Spencer's theories are described as 'radical' and share similarities with earlier work by Peter Warrington.

UFOlore: A Social Psychological Study of a Modern Myth in the Making

Robert Bartholomew's sociological study of UFO phenomena is reviewed. Bartholomew suggests that UFO experiences, abductions, and other paranormal encounters are mental phenomena arising from personal crises, serving as a psychological defense mechanism to provide hope and meaning.

Encounters: A Psychologist Reveals Case Studies of Abductions by Extraterrestrials

Edith Fiore's book, based on her work as a regression hypnotherapist, presents 13 abduction cases. Fiore believes in extraterrestrial visitation and suggests that many UFO enthusiasts are genuine contactees. The book includes a list of common indicators of abduction experiences.

Disneyland of the Gods

This review of John A. Keel's book highlights its exploration of the bizarre and chaotic nature of phenomena, arguing that UFOs should be considered alongside other strange occurrences. Keel suggests that space and time are constantly distorted and that humans are subject to 'second form laws.' The book examines various phenomena, including mysterious lights, animal mutilations, and sea monsters, and posits a connection between these and UFO sightings.

Nyhed fra Polen (News from Poland)

This section announces the launch of a new Polish UFO magazine, 'Magazin Ufologiczny UFO,' which aims to cover UFOlogy in Poland and internationally. The magazine is noted for its professional layout and content.

Godt nyt fra Spanien (Good News from Spain)

This brief mention highlights the Spanish quarterly 'Cuadernos de Ufologia,' praising its quality and content, which includes articles on radar UFO tracking, optical phenomena, and the 'UMMO myth.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, psychology, and paranormal phenomena, particularly UFOs and related mysteries like crop circles and 'earth lights.' There is a clear interest in presenting various theories, from natural explanations to extraterrestrial hypotheses, while also critically examining research methodologies and the psychological underpinnings of belief. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a balanced perspective, often questioning sensationalism and promoting a more scientific approach to the study of unexplained phenomena. The reviews often highlight criticisms of authors' tones or methodologies, suggesting a desire for clarity and evidence-based conclusions within the field of ufology.

Title: UFO-VISION
Issue: 1990-91
Date: 1990-91
Publisher: UFO-VISION
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Cover Headline: Seriøs ufologi (Serious Ufology)

This issue of UFO-VISION delves into serious ufological topics, featuring reviews of books and publications that explore UFO crashes, abductions, and related phenomena. It also examines the rise of new religious movements and their connection to Eastern philosophies and practices, contrasting them with traditional Western beliefs.

Book Reviews and Articles

UFO Crash at Aztec: A Well Kept Secret

The review discusses William S. Steinman's book, which revives the story of a supposed UFO crash in New Mexico in 1948. The book presents several claims, including UFO crashes in various locations globally, some attributed to military radar interference. It also suggests the US government investigated intact UFOs and that some recent sightings might be misinterpretations of human-made craft. The reviewer notes that while the book provides strong evidence for the Aztec incident, some of its more controversial claims, like aliens using human bases for experiments, rest on thinner evidence. Despite its unusual format, the book is recommended for its provocative content.

The Extraterrestrials and Their Reality

This review covers John H. Andrews' book, which warns of controversial topics, particularly the idea that aliens are malevolent and might use humans for organ donation. The author has prepared a shelter for a year, anticipating a negative reaction.

FOO Fighters

Mark Ian Birdsall's paper explores the phenomenon of "Ghost Rockets" and "Foo Fighters," suggesting that German superweapons from World War II were responsible for UFO reports from 1943 to 1947 and possibly later. The reviewer notes that while not extensively documented, the book offers intriguing possibilities.

Journal of UFO Studies New Series, Vol. 1

This review discusses the first issue of the Journal of UFO Studies, which features a debate on UFO abductions. Thomas E. Bullard's article examines the role of hypnosis in UFO abduction accounts, concluding that hypnosis alone is not the sole reason for these narratives. The journal presents a more serious discussion of UFO abductions compared to other popular literature. Michael D. Swords, the editor, notes that despite disagreements on the cause of abductions, there is a consensus that the topic requires further scientific investigation.

Hermann Oberth on the UFO Scene

Dieter von Reeken's publication, "Hermann Oberth und die UFO-Forschung," is reviewed. It details the life and work of Professor Hermann Oberth, a pioneer in rocketry who also showed interest in UFO research. The booklet covers Oberth's significance to the German UFO scene and his controversial association with certain UFO organizations. It also lists his publications and biographies.

An Alien Harvest: Further Evidence Linking Animal Mutilations and Human Abduction to Alien Life Forms

Linda Moulton Howe's book is reviewed, covering animal mutilations and human abductions. The reviewer notes that while the book presents a mix of facts and rumors, it doesn't deeply engage with criticisms of the animal mutilation claims. It touches upon abduction theories and alleged government projects like MJ-12.

En verden af bortførelser (A World of Abductions)

This section reviews several books on UFO abductions:

• Death by Supernatural Causes? by Jenny Randles and Peter Hough: Examines seven cases where authorities could not determine the cause of death, including disappearances and alleged "witchcraft." The book is described as a narrative that presents research findings.
• Beyond Explanation by Jenny Randles: A collection of alleged first-hand experiences with paranormal phenomena by wealthy and famous individuals, showing that such experiences are not limited to ordinary people.
• UFO-kongres om bortførelser og rumskibs-hypotesen (UFO Congress on Abductions and the Spaceship Hypothesis): Proceedings from the MUFON 1988 International UFO Symposium, discussing abduction cases and their potential causes. It includes Walter N. Webb's report on an abduction case at Buff Ledge.
• UFO Abduction at Maringá: The AGRIPO Experiment by A.J. Gevaerd: An expanded edition detailing abduction experiences of Jocelino de Mattos and his family in Brazil, with claims that the beings came from the Andromeda Galaxy and performed genetic experiments.

Guf for de gale (A Treat for the Crazy)

This section reviews two magazines that focus on "all sorts of mystical events and occult subjects":

• Fortean Times: Created by Bob Rickard, it continues the work of Charles Fort by collecting information on unusual phenomena. It is described as a high-quality publication.
• Strange Magazine: An American counterpart to Fortean Times, it covers similar topics with a focus on the American continent.
• Arial Anomalies International: A quarterly journal focusing on unusual natural phenomena.

Yoga, ufoer og nyreligiøsitet (Yoga, UFOs, and New Religiosity)

Dr. Irving Hexham's article explores the connection between strange sects, popular culture, and irrational ideas. It argues that to combat sects, it's necessary to criticize modern society's irrational ideas, which are not harmless but indoctrinate people into accepting sect propaganda. The article discusses how yoga, UFOs, and new religious sects are part of a growing "new irrationalism" in the West. It traces the shift from materialism to Eastern religions among young people, particularly in the 1960s, and examines the core concepts of yoga: karma, reincarnation, and astrology, noting how these ideas, often presented as secular, are deeply rooted in religious traditions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, including crashes and abductions, and the exploration of alternative belief systems. The magazine appears to adopt a critical yet open-minded stance, reviewing various perspectives on UFOs and related topics. There's a clear interest in distinguishing between serious research and sensationalism, as seen in the reviews of books and magazines. The issue also highlights the growing influence of Eastern philosophies and practices in Western culture, particularly among younger generations, and their potential connection to irrational thought patterns and new religious movements. The editorial stance seems to favor a more academic and analytical approach to these subjects, encouraging critical thinking and further investigation.

This issue of UFO-VISION, dated 1990-91, focuses on the emerging 'New Age' movement and its complex relationship with mythology, science, and belief systems. The magazine critically examines how Eastern and Western myths are being synthesized and reinterpreted, often through a lens of scientific or pseudo-scientific concepts.

The Rise of a New Mythology

The article begins by noting attempts to introduce Eastern myths and lifestyles to the West, such as by the Hare Krishna movement, which have met with limited success. Instead, a new mythology is developing in the West, fueled by syncretistic sects. This new mythology blends Eastern and Western myths, using scientific terms to describe ancient concepts. For instance, 'ancient records of flying saucers' are used to explain mythological accounts, and 'magic spells' are re-framed as 'force fields.' This approach makes Eastern stories more palatable to Western audiences and rehabilitates Western myths.

The new mythology offers hope by suggesting humanity is not alone in the universe and that ultimate destiny is not controlled by world leaders or superpowers. It provides a basis for the 'truths' claimed by various sects. The core ideas can be categorized into 'New Age' concepts and beliefs about 'Extraterrestrial Civilizations.'

New Age Ideas

The most well-known New Age teaching is about the 'Age of Aquarius,' popularized by the musical 'Hair.' This is based on astrological 'ages,' each lasting about 2200 years. The current era is said to be transitioning from the 'Age of Pisces' (associated with confusion and excessive emotion) to the 'Age of Aquarius' (associated with 'constructive intelligence' and universal brotherhood through occult knowledge). The 1960s hippies saw themselves as harbingers of this new age, creating a sense of anticipation that sects continue to exploit, often linking it to a belief in the 'Second Coming of Christ.'

The concept of Christ's return is interpreted differently by various groups. Some hold a fundamentalist view, while others see Christ as a charismatic leader or an 'spiritual force.' Often, these ideas are blended with elements from other figures like King Arthur, Gandalf, and characters from 'flying saucer' lore, creating a strong sense of expectation for a coming age heralded by the appearance of flying saucers.

Belief in Other Civilizations

The belief that 'we are not alone' and 'we were not the first' is a significant aspect of this new mythology. It posits a past golden age from which humanity has fallen. Unlike older mythologies that attributed this to gods, the New Age view attributes it to technologically advanced beings who established a colony on Earth. This original civilization eventually collapsed, possibly due to arrogance or nuclear war, though the reasons are not clearly defined. Subsequent civilizations like Atlantis, Lemuria, and Mu are seen as remnants of this era, with later cultures like China, Egypt, and those in South America being influenced by their survivors. These 'lost cultures' are believed to have possessed secret knowledge, with hints of this heritage found in legends and 'sacred texts' of various races.

These texts are seen as providing a distorted view of the truth, either because ancient leaders hid their knowledge or because the original meaning was lost over time. Stories of 'spacemen' became tales of 'supermen' or 'gods.' Despite distortions, proponents believe these sources reveal that humans once lived in harmony with nature, and that 'science' was about cooperation, not domination. Nature is viewed as a living organism, and humans are believed to have once possessed natural abilities like healing and levitation, which they have since lost.

Evidence for these claims is often sought in ancient structures like the pyramids and Stonehenge. It is argued that modern technology cannot replicate these feats, indicating they were built by a higher civilization. Orthodox archaeology is seen as unable to explain their purpose, which becomes clear only when viewed from a 'space travel' perspective.

John Michell, a popular occult author, interprets King Arthur as the last ruler of a lineage that tried to preserve this ancient culture. His advisor, Merlin, descended from this higher race and knew their secrets. After Arthur, these secrets were lost in the West but preserved in small, secret societies and monastic groups. The Reformation is blamed for their final loss in the West, though they persisted in the East until destroyed by Western imperialism. Today, they are believed to exist in a degenerate form among Australian aborigines and South African bushmen, and are being 'rediscovered' through yoga and the teachings of certain religious leaders.

These claims are often made by sect leaders, and the internal coherence of this mythology appeals to young people seeking meaning. It helps them reconcile previously accepted but uncomprehended ideas, leading to a new form of irrationalism.

Some Proposals for Explanation

For outsiders, the ideas of this new mythology can seem vague and confusing, with facts and fiction blending indistinctly. However, for sect members, there is an internal logic that makes it cohesive. Theodore Rozack is quoted saying, 'It is the myth that we accept without question that truly influences us.'

For adherents of this new irrationalism, these ideas hold the key to life and are considered 'the Truth.' Doubts about coherence are dismissed as a lack of understanding. Initially, yoga, drugs, and pop culture helped people accept these ideas in fragments. Later, these fragments were shaped into a coherent narrative within the sect's social context. Once accepted, believers interpret history to fit the sect's worldview, explaining the world's current state and proving the sect's truth.

Alleged UFO sightings are presented as modern evidence confirming the sect's beliefs. The claims about UFOs provide a contemporary basis for historical interpretations and spiritual assertions, making the movement relevant. The Great Pyramids and Stonehenge are cited as proof of lost knowledge and a higher civilization, dispelling doubts about flying saucers.

This 'knowledge' is reinforced through practices like yoga and other religious activities, completing a cycle that includes concepts like karma and reincarnation. This creates a self-righteous, self-confirming circle for sect members, explaining their beliefs and why others reject them.

The idea of 'lost knowledge' from 'lost civilizations' is based on the premise that humanity once possessed a 'science' superior to modern knowledge. This belief aims to create space for a 'scientific faith' in a world that has lost faith in science.

The Role of Science and the Reformation

Instead of leading to a millennium, science has produced the atomic bomb and is blamed for the ecological crisis, shaking the 19th-century hope in its problem-solving abilities. Rather than rejecting a false faith in science, a new faith has emerged, invoking a fallible 'lost science' to solve humanity's problems. This replaces scientific faith with a mythical concept of science.

These ideas offer an explanation for human origins in a world that has rejected God. Evolutionary hypotheses are seen as too demanding for religious individuals, and the 'modern' alternative is presented as flawed. Evolutionary theory, as taught in schools, portrays humans as products of mere chance in a hostile universe, lacking purpose or hope. By invoking space travel, a god-like concept is reintroduced, pushing the problem of human origins billions of years into the past. This gives human life new meaning and hope, as it is no longer solely dependent on humanity.

Space travel is seen as a reaction against popular evolutionism and shapes a collective understanding of 'evolution.' This is not the scientific concept but its interpretation for the public. The question of whether humans could have evolved alone is answered by positing a universe populated by other intelligent beings. Earth is also seen as filled with nature spirits.

This mythological reinterpretation of evolution is compared to the medieval concept of 'abundance,' suggesting the universe must evolve to its highest possible degree of existence, creating an 'evolutionary chain of being.' This echoes Arthur Lovejoy's work on the 'Great Chain of Being' and T.S. Eliot's description of the Elizabethan worldview.

This return to a pseudo-medieval view of humanity, though secularized, expresses popular faith in science. It explains frequent references to the 'damage caused by the Reformation.' The argument is that the Reformation destroyed the last remnants of 'lost knowledge,' thereby destroying the old medieval worldview and the 'chain of existence.'

Before the Reformation, people were placed in an infinite hierarchy leading to God. Calvinism, however, placed individuals in direct relation to God, equal before Him. This shattered the old European hierarchy, establishing a new order where God ruled directly through His law, laying the foundation for modern empirical sciences based on unchanging laws discoverable by humans.

By rejecting the ideas of the Reformation, the new irrationalism seeks to return to a pre-scientific worldview. This explains why modern science is viewed negatively by sect members, who reject the scientific method in favor of shamanism.

The result is a return of old superstitions in new forms, offering pseudo-scientific respectability that aligns with modern scientific faith. Visions of the Virgin Mary and saints are replaced by pseudo-scientific 'observations' of flying saucers, and encounters with 'visitors from space.' Sect leaders who can interpret these 'visions' gain authority.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue questions whether the rise of new mythologies and sects should be surprising. Given the history of religion, it should not be. Generations raised without religious knowledge will create their own gods. The new mythology and sects are seen as the inevitable result of 19th-century secularization and rationalism, which attempted to deny religious experience by ignoring it.

The magazine advocates for serious religious education and a rejection of irrationalism as a counter-movement to the growth of sects. It argues that by teaching people to discern, they can reject the bizarre and avoid being hypnotized by novelty. This requires developing critical thinking that undermines the ideas fueling these movements, rather than just reacting to specific sects.

In the USA, the constitutional separation of church and state presents a challenge to proposals for increased religious education. However, religious studies as an academic discipline need not conflict with laws preventing proselytization. The essence of religious studies lies in recognizing religious pluralism and the need to understand an increasingly pluralistic world.

The article concludes that state institutions should teach students to think critically about religious questions without promoting any particular religious or anti-religious viewpoint. What is needed is information about major religious traditions, coupled with the development of critical thinking skills that people normally use for other life choices.

Once this is recognized, religion will play as important a role in education as history, economics, and other subjects that prepare children for responsible citizenship. This will diminish the appeal of esotericism, as charlatans will no longer be able to claim access to hidden knowledge. In the 19th century, sex was taboo; today, religion is the taboo subject. This has allowed sects and new religious movements to thrive on public ignorance, promising seemingly blissful gifts to those who venture beyond the normal societal framework.

By bringing religion back into public discourse and discussing it in schools, the mystique can be removed, and the potential for manipulation through ignorance can be countered. The issue also lists the writers contributing to this edition of UFO-VISION, including Ole Henningsen, Kim Møller Hansen, Per Borgaard, George Eberhart, Greg Long, Nigel Watson, Bob Rickard, M. Birdsall, Hans-Werner Peiniger, Jenny Randles, Mark Newbold, Phil Rife, and Pony Godic.