Zetetic Scholar - No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: Zetetic scholar
Issue: Volume 1, Number 1
Date: 1978
Publisher: Marcello Truzzi
Focus: An Independent Scientific Review of Claims of Anomalies and the Paranormal.

Editorial Stance and Goals

The editorial, penned by Editor Marcello Truzzi, outlines the journal's mission to foster a continuous dialogue concerning claims of the paranormal. It emphasizes an interest not only in adjudicating these claims but also in understanding the sociology and psychology of the disputes. The journal aims to balance scientific skepticism with the need for objectivity and fairness, serving as an "amicus curiae" or "friend of the court" to bring full information and diverse opinions before the scientific community. Truzzi states that scientific procedure does not begin with neutrality, and the burden of proof rests upon the claimant, increasing with the extraordinary nature of the claim. Skepticism is presented as the normal starting point of science, but not as dogmatic denial. The journal intends to pose new questions more frequently than providing definitive answers.

Truzzi also notes his resignation from the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICOP), which he co-founded, acknowledging its role in providing a forum for the "conservative or Orthodox position" within the scientific community, while asserting that no single body should act as a gatekeeper of knowledge.

Articles

Skepticism, Science, and the Paranormal

Author: Laurent Beauregard

Beauregard begins by referencing William Crookes' 1870 publication of scientific papers on psychical research, noting his conviction that certain physical phenomena occurred that could not be explained by known physical laws. Crookes' attempts to present his findings to the Royal Society were rejected by its secretaries, G.G. Stokes and Sir Charles Wheatstone, despite Crookes being a fellow. Crookes subsequently published his studies in the Quarterly Journal of Science, edited by himself, and never retracted his findings in parapsychology.

The article draws a parallel between Crookes' era and the present, where researchers in parapsychology claim rigorous investigation has established phenomena like ESP and PK. It mentions the book "Mind-Reach" by Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff, which discusses psychic abilities. Beauregard notes that while Crookes modestly proposed a "psychic force," the paradigm has not shifted, and psychical research remains "borderline," yet millions of people seek to develop psychic powers.

The situation with UFOs is presented as similar. A 1973 Gallup poll indicated 15 million Americans had UFO experiences, and half the population believed UFOs were real. Beauregard counters the notion that UFOs are merely a slice of popular culture, citing responsible UFO literature by scientists. He quotes astronomer J. Allen Hynek, who eschewed the scientific tendency to "dismiss or laugh off 'all this UFO nonsense'" and stated that phenomena reported by responsible persons "defy scientific explanation." Hynek, after thirty years as the Air Force's chief consultant on UFOs, defines a "genuine UFO" as a reported perception of an object or light that remains unidentified even after expert scrutiny.

Beauregard then explores the definition of a UFO as an "unidentified reported perception" and psi as an "unexplained reported perception." He states he has no trouble believing in psi and UFOs under these broad definitions. However, he expresses difficulty believing if UFOs are interpreted as extraterrestrial intelligent visitations or if psi involves moving matter by wishing. He suggests that if UFOs are psychic phenomena, they become "integrated anomalies," requiring skepticism to be directed at psi itself.

The author aims to clarify the logic behind the controversy, discussing skeptics and believers. Believers accuse skeptics of ignoring data, while skeptics view believers as credulous. Ray Hyman notes increasing polarization, and Targ and Puthoff speak of "the Loyal Opposition." Beauregard poses the key question: Is it reasonable to be skeptical about paranormal claims, and why?

He advocates for a balance between openness to anomalous claims and critical skepticism, questioning if science should be neutral or impartial. He argues that science should be rational and objective, and suggests a certain bias might be indispensable for scientific objectivity. Applied to UFOs, the question is whether human testimony of close encounters can confirm extraterrestrial intelligence, and Beauregard posits it is reasonable to be biased against such evidence.

The Humean Bias

Beauregard introduces the "Humean bias," honoring David Hume and his argument against miracles. This bias has two components: a strong commitment to existing scientific knowledge (content) and a determination to uphold the rules of science (method). This combination forms the skeptical bias.

He quotes Marcello Truzzi, who stated that "A heavy burden of proof rests upon the person claiming the existence of an anomaly, and this burden increases as the extraordinary character of the anomaly increases."

Beauregard reformulates Hume's argument not around the miraculousness of miracles, but the "antecedent improbability of the paranormal." He suggests comparing the prior probability of a paranormal occurrence with the probability of deception or self-deception. He cautions against viewing paranormal phenomena as outright violations of natural laws, suggesting they are better conceived as "anomalies" that are not yet explained by current scientific principles.

A distinction is made between "abnormal" and "paranormal" events. An abnormal event conflicts with a low-level observable regularity (e.g., Siamese twins), while a paranormal event contradicts a well-established theoretical principle or fundamental law of nature (e.g., Uri Geller bending a spoon).

The prior probability of an event is its probability relative to background knowledge. The lower this prior probability, the greater the special evidence needed for rational conviction. Since the prior probability of a paranormal event is extremely low, the burden of proof is very heavy.

Beauregard notes a formulation of Hume's argument that suggests paranormal claims can never be settled, as the burden of proof is insurmountably heavy. This argument posits that it is always more reasonable to postulate human error than to admit a genuinely paranormal event.

Bayes' Theorem, PAL, and the Confirmation of Paranormal Claims

Beauregard introduces Bayes' Theorem as a tool to avoid an a priori disproof of fundamental discoveries. The theorem is presented in formulaic terms:

P(h, k&e) = [P(h,k) * P(e, h&k)] / [P(h,k) * P(e, h&k) + P(h',k) * P(e, k&h')]

• Where:
• `h` = paranormal hypothesis
• `h'` = denial of `h`
• `k` = well-confirmed background knowledge
• `e` = special evidence adduced to support `h`

• Key terms are defined:
• `P(h, k&e)`: the total probability of `h` given `k` and `e` (P)
• `P(h,k)`: the antecedent (prior) probability of `h` given `k` (A)
• `P(e, k&h')`: the likelihood of a non-paranormal explanation of evidence `e` (L)

This leads to the PAL formula: P = A / (A + (1-A)L).

The article then characterizes the positions of skeptics and believers using this formula.

• Skeptic's Position:
• Assigns a low prior probability (A < 1/2) to paranormal hypotheses.
• Assigns a high likelihood (L > 1/2) to naturalistic explanations.
• A "generous skeptic" might set L = 1/2.
• Result: P will be small, and the difference P-A will also be small. If L is very high (near 1), P becomes nearly equal to A, meaning the evidence is not inductively relevant.

• Believer's Position:
• May view background knowledge as tentative or neutral.
• May assign a prior probability (A) of 1/2.
• The BELIEVER'S PAL formula is P = 1 / (1 + L).
• Believers expect L to be small for their best cases.
• Result: P will be high, and the difference P-A will be considerable.

If L=1 (high likelihood of fraud/incompetence), P becomes 1/2, meaning the evidence neither confirms nor refutes. The believer's position can lead to paranormal hypotheses being construed as irrefutable or unfalsifiable.

The core of the disagreement lies in the values assigned to A (prior probability) and L (likelihood of naturalistic explanation).

Beauregard reflects that the Humean argument can be reversed if there is certainty about the integrity and observational competence of the reporter. He quotes William Crookes and Henry Sidgwick on their confidence in their own integrity and observational skills. The controversy ultimately hinges on the value of L, with professional magicians pointing out that honest people can be deceived.

Features

Editorial

This section is essentially the same as the introductory editorial content by Marcello Truzzi, reiterating the journal's goals and approach.

Book Reviews

• The Occult Underground by James Webb (Reviewed by Martin Gardner)
• Youth Brainwashing and the Extremist Cults by Ronald Enroth (Reviewed by Roy Wallis)
• Encyclopedia of Occultism & Parapsychology by Leslie Shepard (Reviewed by Marcello Truzzi)
• In Search of White Crows: Spiritualism, Parapsychology and American Culture by R. Laurence Moore (Reviewed by Marcello Truzzi)

Books Briefly Noted (53 Books)

A list of 53 books is provided without individual reviews.

Bibliographies

• Crank, Crackpot, or Genius? Pseudoscience or Science Revolution? A Basic Bibliographic Guide to the Debate (Compiled by M. Truzzi)
• The Powers of Negative Thinking, or Debunking the Paranormal: A Basic Book List (Compiled by M. Truzzi)
• Uri Geller & the Scientists: A Basic Bibliography (Compiled by M. Truzzi & Ray Hyman)
• Debunking Biorhythms (Compiled by M. Truzzi)
• Random Bibliography of the Occult & the Paranormal (Compiled by M. Truzzi)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this inaugural issue is the critical examination of paranormal claims through a scientific and skeptical lens, while advocating for fairness and objectivity. The journal positions itself as a platform for reasoned debate, aiming to clarify the logical frameworks used to evaluate extraordinary evidence. The "Humean bias" and the application of Bayes' Theorem are central to this analytical approach, emphasizing the importance of prior probabilities and the likelihood of naturalistic explanations. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, encouraging the scientific community to engage with anomalies without succumbing to either dogmatic denial or uncritical acceptance. The journal seeks to foster a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and methodologies involved in investigating the paranormal.

This issue of the International UFO Reporter, Volume 10, Issue 9, dated October 1985, focuses on the critical evaluation of extraordinary claims, particularly those related to UFOs and paranormal phenomena. The cover story, "On the Extraordinary: An Attempt at Clarification" by Marcello Truzzi, along with accompanying articles, delves into the philosophical underpinnings of scientific skepticism and the methodology for assessing anomalous events.

The Problem of Scientific Advance and Preconceived Ideas

The issue opens with a discussion on how rigid adherence to existing scientific knowledge can hinder scientific progress. It references Crookes and J. Allen Hynek, who quote philosopher Thomas Goudge, emphasizing that a necessary condition for scientific advance is the allowance for genuinely new empirical observations and new explanation schemes. Rejecting UFO phenomena as merely misperceptions or unscientific data is seen as a rejection of this fundamental principle of scientific growth. The authors ponder whether a strong commitment to current scientific knowledge can lead to stagnation, while also acknowledging the need for some degree of commitment to the existing body of knowledge as essential for genuine scientific revolutions.

Emotional Prejudice vs. Scientific Bias

The article explores the concept of 'emotional prejudice' in scientific inquiry, citing psychologist D.O. Hebb's 'confession' that he rejected ESP because it 'does not make sense' to his external criteria, admitting it was a form of prejudice. Aldous Huxley is also mentioned for his observation that scientists should not let prejudice outweigh evidence. However, the authors argue that the rejection of parapsychology and UFO research need not be solely due to an 'emotionally biased will to disbelieve.' Instead, a 'Humean' or scientific bias can be analyzed more objectively. This bias involves the PAL formula and the assessment of probabilities A (antecedent probability of the paranormal) and L (likelihood of deception or error). The history of fraud in psychical research, for instance, provides empirical bearing on the assessment of L.

The text suggests that if conditions exist where it is reasonable to ignore evidence for a UFO apparition or paranormal occurrence, then scientists who do so need not confess to 'prejudice' or 'scientific bigotry,' but rather can be described as biased in a 'broadly Humean way' about anomalies that seem disconnected from established background knowledge.

J. Allen Hynek is quoted on the 'Laughter of Science' and 'Science is Not Always What Scientists Do,' suggesting that scientists' reactions to UFOs might stem from deep-seated uncertainty or fear. The physicist Donald Menzel's flippant suggestion to 'Throw them in the wastebasket' regarding unexplained UFO reports is contrasted with Hynek's earlier stance that 'Ridicule is not a part of the scientific method.' The author views Menzel's humor as logically and emotionally on par with Hebb's confession, labeling him a 'scientific bigot.' The article asserts that while enthusiasm is not part of the scientific method, PAL (plausibility, antecedent probability, likelihood) might be, serving to reveal the underlying logic of controversies over paranormal claims.

Conclusion on Skepticism and Belief

The conclusion reiterates the ongoing problem of balancing skepticism (inclination to reject) with belief (openness to accept), which is central to the growth of scientific knowledge. It posits that a certain bias against paranormal claims might not be irrational prejudice but could be a necessary component of true scientific objectivity in psychic investigations and UFO research, requiring a negative bias toward the phenomena being studied.

Acknowledgements

The author expresses gratitude to Martin Gardner, Gertrude Schmeidler, and Marcello Truzzi for helpful exchanges.

Note on Spectrum of Belief

A spectrum of belief is presented, with Gardner as a 'firm skeptic,' Truzzi as 'amicus curiae' (friend of the court), and Schmeidler as a 'quasi-believer.'

On the Extraordinary: An Attempt at Clarification (Marcello Truzzi)

This section, by Marcello Truzzi, addresses the degree of evidence needed to establish extraordinary claims. It notes that claimants of the paranormal often do not appreciate the requirement for extraordinary proof, even when parapsychologists highlight the rigorous controls in their studies. Truzzi explains that critics require extraordinary proof because they consider paranormal claims to be more extraordinary than typical scientific claims.

Extraordinary Events Versus Extraordinary Explanations

Truzzi introduces a matrix to categorize events and their explanations into four types: Cell A (ordinary event, ordinary explanation), Cell B (extraordinary event, ordinary explanation), Cell C (ordinary event, extraordinary explanation), and Cell D (extraordinary event, extraordinary explanation).

• Cell A: Represents normal science, where ordinary events are given ordinary explanations. This is the default position for the 'Cell A personality' who insists on the complete ordinariness of things and may deny anomalies outright.
• Cell B: Involves accepting an event as extraordinary but explaining it through ordinary principles (e.g., a monster being a rare mutation). This is the skeptic's approach when facing a verified anomaly.
• Cell C: Characterizes adherents of cults, where ordinary events are given extraordinary explanations (e.g., a crop failure attributed to the gods). Truzzi notes that while logic doesn't preclude this, the doctrine of parsimony in science makes it untenable if an adequate ordinary explanation exists.
• Cell D: Represents the most extreme position, where both the event and its explanation are extraordinary (e.g., a UFO sighting explained as an alien visitation). This is considered scientifically proper only if all ordinary explanations for an established extraordinary event have been found inadequate.

Truzzi suggests a scientific approach that prioritizes Cell A, then Cell B, and only then Cell D, while explicitly avoiding Cell C due to the principle of parsimony. He emphasizes that falsifying certain explanations does not automatically validate another.

The Extraordinary as Relative and Measurable

Defining 'extraordinary' scientifically requires moving beyond dictionary definitions of 'remarkable' or 'exceptional.' It means 'unexpected' and can be of a general or theoretic variety. What is extraordinary for the general public may be ordinary for a scientist, and vice versa, depending on their theoretical expectations and background knowledge. Therefore, extraordinariness must be measured against theoretical expectations within the current scientific framework. The concept is not a simple dichotomy but a continuum expressing degrees of expectation and surprise.

When considering specific paranormal claims, the psychological surprise in witnessing something anomalous should not be confused with the expectation level produced by scientific theory. The article argues that scientists should carefully assess extraordinariness relative to existing scientific knowledge and theory. This assessment reveals that some paranormal claims are less unlikely than others, impacting the amount and quality of proof required by skeptics.

The author expresses amazement that many scientists rank the truth of various paranormal claims unreasonably. For instance, claims of parapsychology are often perceived as more 'reasonable' than claims about Sasquatch or lake monsters, despite telepathy having more revolutionary implications for psychology and physiology than a new species of ape. Clairvoyance and precognition, however, would have revolutionary effects on physics, space, and time. Proponents and critics alike often fail to consider these differential implications and the corresponding proof requirements.

A critic's view that astrobiological correlations are less likely than parapsychological claims, even though the former are presented as mere correlations, is discussed. The author suggests that views on paranormal claims should be re-examined to avoid 'guilt by association' with occultism, and that empirical claims should be judged on their own merits.

Dimensions of the Reasonable

Evaluating paranormal phenomena requires locating the source of the purported extraordinariness. The author identifies three key elements: the event itself (scale of ordinary to extraordinary), the witness/narrator (scale of credible to non-credible), and the narrative/description-report (scale of plausible to implausible). These elements combine to form eight possible scenarios.

In 'normal' science, ordinary events narrated plausibly by credible witnesses are common. The most easily rejected paranormal claims involve extraordinary events narrated implausibly by non-credible witnesses. The hardest case to dismiss is an extraordinary event narrated plausibly by a credible witness, which should be tentatively accepted until replications are conducted.

The article critiques the tendency to equate the extraordinary character of an event with the presumption of fraud, arguing that this is a non-falsifiable claim. It suggests that while extraordinary events may warrant greater caution in examining credibility and plausibility, especially where a history of fraud exists, parapsychologists sometimes lower their standards for credibility, while skeptics may overdo their skepticism. The author urges focusing on the narratives themselves and not allowing the perception of the event's extraordinariness to unduly color the analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical evaluation of extraordinary claims, the nature of scientific skepticism, the definition and measurement of 'extraordinariness,' and the methodology for assessing evidence in UFO and paranormal research. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a rigorous, yet open-minded, scientific approach that distinguishes between genuine critical assessment and irrational prejudice, emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence, plausibility, and credibility in evaluating anomalous phenomena.

Title: UFO ROUNDUP
Issue: Vol. 11, No. 10
Date: October 1986
Publisher: Mutual UFO Network, Inc.
Country: USA
Price: $2.00

Articles and Content

The Mystery of the Green Fireballs

The issue opens with a discussion on the "Green Fireballs," a series of unexplained aerial phenomena observed in the late 1940s and 1950s. These objects were described as large, green, and moving erratically, sometimes hovering, changing direction, and accelerating rapidly. Reports often included instances of radio interference. Despite numerous sightings, no definitive explanation or physical trace evidence has been found, leaving the phenomenon largely unexplained.

Solar and Economic Relationships: An Updated Report

This section presents an updated analysis of the relationship between sunspot activity and business cycles, building upon earlier work by W. S. Jevons and Carlos Garcia-Mata and Felix I. Shaffner. The study uses the Federal Reserve Board Index of industrial production from 1919 through 1975, and Zurich Relative Sunspot Numbers. The analysis reveals a close correlation between sunspots and manufacturing production throughout the century, with approximately 10 repetitions of the 11.2-year sunspot cycle observed. A notable exception occurred for about 15 years beginning in 1940, during which the two series were out of phase due to unusual production activities related to World War II. The report predicts a potential increase in industrial production as the current solar cycle reaches its maximum around 1981 or 1982, though it cautions that no mechanism or causative factors are known to relate these phenomena. The research acknowledges that while changes in biological organisms during periods of high solar activity are documented, their manifestation in human economic behavior is controversial.

Bibliography: Crank, Crackpot, or Genius? Pseudoscience or Science Revolution?

Compiled by Marcello Truzzi, this extensive bibliography lists numerous articles and books related to the debate between pseudoscience and science. It includes works by prominent figures such as Isaac Asimov, Bernard Barber, Jeremy Bernstein, Stephen G. Brush, R. P. Feynman, Martin Gardner, Thomas Kuhn, Imre Lakatos, and Karl Popper. The bibliography covers a wide range of topics including the validation of scientific belief, the nature of scientific discovery, the role of heretics in science, and the characteristics of "cranks" and "crackpots."

Castaneda: Trickster - Teacher: A Conversation with Richard de Mille

This section features an interview with Richard de Mille, author of "Castaneda's Journey," conducted by Dick Hooper. De Mille presents his investigative findings suggesting that Carlos Castaneda's don Juan material is a literary fraud rather than factual reporting. De Mille's research, spanning two and a half years, involved examining literary styles, biographies, and conversations with acquaintances. He posits that Castaneda began writing the fiction narrative in 1960, possibly while at the UCLA library, and incorporated material into later books to meet public and publisher demands. De Mille believes Castaneda's dream was to be a fiction writer, and publishing don Juan as fact was a more practical route. He views Castaneda as living in a "separate reality" of his own imagination, appreciating him as a "true shaman" who "does his own trip and believes it."

Review of In Search of White Crows

This is a continuation of a review of a book by Dr. Moore. The reviewer's primary reservation concerns Moore's superficial treatment of contemporary parapsychology, viewing it as too monolithic and failing to differentiate between various organizations. The reviewer notes that Moore sometimes confuses matters by using "Psychic magazine" as an indicator of academic attitudes within parapsychology. Despite this criticism, the reviewer finds Moore's central thesis plausible and the book itself well-written, educational, and entertaining, recommending it for those interested in psychic investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the boundaries between science and pseudoscience, skepticism, and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on critical analysis and the importance of evidence, as highlighted by the discussion on scientific skepticism and the "zetetic" approach. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a cautious, evidence-based approach to extraordinary claims, while remaining open to possibilities. The inclusion of a comprehensive bibliography on the topic reinforces this theme of scholarly inquiry into controversial subjects.

This issue of ZETETIC SCHOLAR, the first of its kind, aims to foster serious and responsible dialogue on paranormal claims through a scientific lens. It establishes a network of scholars and "experts," both proponents and critics, who share a respect for scientific method in adjudicating such claims. The journal is concerned exclusively with scientific and not with non-empirical or transcendental issues, defining the "paranormal" as that which is "beyond the normal" and unexplained by contemporary science.

Articles and Content

Richard de Mille on Carlos Castaneda

The issue features a critical examination of Carlos Castaneda's work by Richard de Mille. De Mille describes Castaneda as a talented and shrewd individual who successfully hoaxed the UCLA Anthropology department and the public. He notes that Castaneda's books tapped into the zeitgeist of the counter-culture, with themes evolving from drug use to occultism. Despite exposing Castaneda's "literary hoaxing," de Mille believes the teachings themselves are valuable collections of shamanic adventures, even if gleaned from other sources. De Mille also touches upon the alleged cover-up at UCLA to protect a faculty colleague who aided Castaneda. He suggests that the faculty might have been swayed by the counter-culture tide and wanted to believe Castaneda. De Mille also reveals he possesses an unpublished copy of Castaneda's fifth book, "The Second Ring of Power," which he believes is further proof of Castaneda's intent to publish numerous subsequent books in a similar vein to Lobsang Rampa's work.

De Mille posits that for a shaman, deception is considered "impeccable." He sees Castaneda as a loner living in his own reality, and believes Castaneda's book has not flushed him out of hiding because it would require his public presence, which is out of character. De Mille speculates that Castaneda might be using the "separate reality" concept in "The Second Ring of Power" to make don Juan disappear permanently, thus avoiding physical searches. He notes that his book has confirmed skeptics and put don Juan in perspective for some believers, though it has also drawn criticism from those who view him as an infidel for challenging Castaneda's "gospel."

Charles Sanders Peirce on Key Philosophical Concepts

The issue includes selected quotations from Charles Sanders Peirce (1839-1914), an American philosopher, physicist, and mathematician, founder of pragmatism. The selections focus on topics relevant to the scientific study of the paranormal:

• The First Rule of Reason: "Do not block the way of inquiry."
• On Fallibilism: Peirce argues that absolute certainty, exactitude, and universality are unattainable through reasoning, as all positive reasoning involves judging a proportion of something in a whole collection by the proportion found in a sample.
• On Falsifiability: He states that the best hypothesis is the one most readily refuted if false, as hypotheses that align with preconceived ideas might be wrong. A hypothesis that can be quickly cleared away allows the field to be left free for the main struggle, offering an immense advantage.
• On Telepathy: Peirce acknowledges that while telepathy is not established, scientific men must respectfully treat it as a serious problem. However, he critiques the theory of telepathy as being fundamentally different from everyday experience, making it difficult to derive verifiable predictions. He argues that if the theory relies solely on rare, tremendous experiences, it is not a contribution to science, as science deals with intelligible facts and laws of what always happens.
• On Immortality: Peirce notes that ordinary observation of the dependence of mind on body, and cases of double consciousness, are unfavorable to the doctrine of immortality. He suggests that our conception of the universe, based on analogy with the seen, does not harmonize with the belief in a future life. He finds the idea of an immortal soul to be "utterly unlikeness" to anything we can doubt, and the old arguments for its existence to be slight.

On Psychical Research and Researchers

Selections from Peirce also address psychical research. He compares the progress of physics, with its cultivated methods, to the nascent field of psychical research, which is like "breaking ground in a perfectly virgin soil." He defends the honest work of psychicists, who are proceeding intelligently despite the challenges. Regarding psychical researchers, Peirce acknowledges their devotion to truth, recognizing that they undertake difficult, costly, and often unrewarding work, facing potential obloquy and finding little honor. He concludes that their aims are pursued in a "single-hearted manner," though their reasoning power may not always be sufficient for their problems.

Bibliography: A Basic Book List

Compiled by Marcello Truzzi, this extensive bibliography provides a list of general works and specific topics related to "debunking the paranormal." It includes categories such as:

• General Works
• Ancient Astronauts (Von Daniken) & Archaeoastronomy
• Astrology
• Atlantis & Lemuria
• Bermuda Triangle
• Castaneda, Carlos
• Dixon, Jeane
• Dowsing
• Faith Healing
• Geller, Uri
• Nutrition and Health
• Mysticism of the East
• Parapsychology
• Pyramids of Egypt
• Spiritualism
• Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs)
• Velikovsky, Immanuel

Each entry lists authors, titles, publication details, and locations.

Editorial Stance and Future Plans

The editorial section explains the mission of ZETETIC SCHOLAR to establish a network for dialogue on paranormal claims using scientific methodology. It defines the paranormal as phenomena beyond current scientific explanation, encompassing a wide range of claims from acupuncture to zoological curiosities. The journal intends to avoid labels like "pseudoscience" and instead seek responsible experts to examine claims. To elevate discussion and educate interested parties, the journal will feature bibliographies and resource information. The editor appeals for subscriptions and support to ensure the journal's continuation and expansion, noting that this first issue is dominated by the editor's contributions and that future issues will encourage reader participation and dialogue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical examination of popular paranormal claims and figures, the application of scientific methodology to investigate anomalies, and the philosophical underpinnings of inquiry and belief. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of empirical evidence and scientific rigor, aiming to separate genuine scientific frontiers from pseudoscience and unfounded beliefs. The journal positions itself as a platform for reasoned debate, not for transcendental or non-empirical speculation. The extensive bibliography underscores a commitment to providing resources for in-depth study and critical evaluation of paranormal phenomena.

This document is a bibliography titled "URI GELLER & THE SCIENTISTS: A BASIC BIBLIOGRAPHY," compiled by Marcello Truzzi and Ray Hyman. It is presented as a list of references, primarily from the 1970s, detailing various articles, books, and other publications that discuss Uri Geller and the scientific community's engagement with his alleged psychic phenomena.

Content

The bibliography is extensive, numbering 192 entries, each referencing a specific publication. These entries cover a broad spectrum of viewpoints, including scientific investigations, skeptical analyses, personal accounts, and popular media coverage of Uri Geller's abilities, such as metal bending and psychokinesis.

Key Themes and Publications

Several recurring themes and publication types are evident:

• Scientific Journals: Many entries are from academic and scientific journals like the *Journal of Parapsychology*, *New Scientist*, *Nature*, *Psychoenergetic Systems*, and *The Zetetic*. These often detail experimental studies, reviews of Geller's performances, and debates between proponents and skeptics.
• Popular Magazines: Articles from popular magazines such as *Time*, *Argosy*, *Saga*, *Fate*, *Psychic*, *The Humanist*, and *New York Times Magazine* are included, reflecting the widespread public interest in Uri Geller.
• Books and Edited Volumes: Several books and collections of essays are referenced, including "The Geller Papers" edited by C. Panati, "The Amazing Uri Geller" by Martin Ebon, and "Mind-Reach" by Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff.
• Letters to the Editor: A significant number of entries are "Letters" to various publications, indicating ongoing discussions and debates within the scientific and public spheres regarding Geller's claims.

Notable Authors and Contributors

The bibliography lists numerous authors who have written about Uri Geller. Among them are prominent figures in parapsychology and skepticism, such as:

• Hans Bender and Suzanne Wendlandt/Gruber-Wendlandt, who conducted studies in Germany and Switzerland.
• Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff, known for their work at the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) on psychokinesis.
• Martin Gardner, a well-known skeptic and popularizer of science, who frequently reviewed and commented on psychic phenomena.
• J. B. Hasted, who conducted experiments with Geller.
• John Beloff, a parapsychologist.
• Christopher, Milbourne, who examined Geller's claims from a magician's perspective.

Specific Incidents and Experiments Mentioned

While the document is primarily a bibliography, the titles of the referenced works hint at specific events and areas of investigation:

• Experiments conducted at Stanford Research Institute.
• Studies on metal bending and psychokinetic phenomena.
• Discussions about Geller's performances in various locations, including Western Germany, Switzerland, and Israel.
• Debates about whether Geller was a "medicine show hype" or a genuine challenge to science.
• Investigations into "psychic ancestors" and the "Geller effect."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The bibliography itself does not express an editorial stance but rather serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers interested in the multifaceted discourse surrounding Uri Geller. The sheer volume and variety of entries suggest that Geller's claims generated significant attention and debate across scientific, academic, and popular media during the 1970s. The compilers, Marcello Truzzi and Ray Hyman, are known figures in sociology of the paranormal and parapsychology, respectively, implying an effort to provide a balanced overview of the literature available at the time.

ZS, Volume 18, Issue 4, published October-December 1977, is a magazine focused on topics related to the occult, paranormal phenomena, UFOs, and fringe beliefs. The issue features a collection of book reviews and a bibliography of recent publications in these fields, alongside a request for reader assistance.

Book Reviews

The Occult Underground by James Webb

Reviewed by Martin Gardner, this two-volume study examines the rise of modern occultism and its nineteenth-century roots. Webb posits that the "occult explosion" is a reaction to the Age of Reason, where science and rationalism failed to solve humanity's difficulties, leading people to seek inspiration in the "occult underground." Gardner notes that Webb calls it "underground" because it flourished outside religious and scientific establishments, drawing parallels between occult movements and revolutionary political movements of the time. He highlights figures like Robert Owen, Upton Sinclair, and Annie Besant who were involved in both political and occult spheres. Gardner questions how much of this Webb himself believes, but notes Webb strives for objectivity. Webb suggests that nineteenth-century occultism, despite its "shabby pseudoscience," was a healthy reaction to materialism, fulfilling a human longing to "exchange civilities with the world beyond." Gardner critiques Webb for subtly confusing science versus pseudoscience with materialism versus idealism, and finds the book a "useful but disorganized and patchy attempt" to survey the era's occult beliefs. He praises its detailed coverage of French and Polish occultism but notes lacunae in its discussion of Christian adventist cults, such as Seventh Day Adventism, and the omission of figures like Ellen White.

Youth Brainwashing and the Extremist Cults by Ronald Enroth

Reviewed by Roy Wallis, this book is described as examining a range of "cults" like Hare Krishna and the Unification Church. Wallis finds the book provides useful factual information but is superficial in its analysis and derivative in its ideas, relying on the work of Rosabeth Kanter and Robert Lipton. The book's empirical information is largely drawn from "anti-cult" groups, which Wallis suggests may be outdated. He concludes that the book is written for Christians with orthodox evangelical views, assuming a hostile stance towards the groups discussed, and allies itself with professional anti-cult figures rather than offering advanced scientific status.

Encyclopedia of Occultism & Parapsychology (2 Volumes)

Edited by Leslie Shepard, this massive compilation is an integration and update of Lewis Spence's and Nandor Fodor's earlier encyclopedias. Reviewed by Marcello Truzzi, the work is praised for its approximately 1000 newly written entries by Shepard, which are generally objective. Truzzi notes the inclusion of addresses to publications and organizations, making it a valuable resource. His main criticism is Shepard's decision to integrate his contributions so thoroughly with those of Spence and Fodor, making it difficult to distinguish them. He hopes Shepard's own pieces might be published separately. Truzzi commends the extensive indexing and cross-referencing, making the volumes "extremely usable as well as informative."

In Search of White Crows: Spiritualism, Parapsychology, and American Culture by R. Laurence Moore

Reviewed by Marcello Truzzi, this book is described as a remarkable social and cultural portrait of spiritualism and parapsychology in the United States. Moore argues that these interests offered Americans a "reasonable" solution to accommodate religious and scientific interests, contrasting with the view that they represent a reversion to superstition. Truzzi notes Moore's analysis that the development of psychical research was an attempt to materialize spiritual matters, with opposition coming from religion and scientists on religious grounds. Moore demonstrates the antagonism of Transcendentalists and analyzes the early period of spiritualism and psychical research, highlighting generally progressive and liberal attitudes. Truzzi found the chapter on "The Medium and Her Message" particularly impressive.

Bibliography: Books Briefly Noted

The issue includes a section titled "BOOKS BRIEFLY NOTED," which lists and briefly describes numerous recent books on topics such as the Loch Ness Monster, the occult and Nazism, scientists under Hitler, UFO encounters, parapsychology, weird America, occult history, magic, ancient astronauts, street magic, extraterrestrial origins of man, world UFOs, European witch hunts, extra-sensory powers, Atlantis, the strange, spells and magic, natural history, time travel, Stonehenge, UFO reports, astrology, Aleister Crowley, Satan and the Nazi Party, veterinary acupuncture, Edgar Cayce, mysteries and monsters, proletarian science, Hollow Earth theory, parapsychology, abducted beings, and more. These entries provide a quick overview of the current literature in these fields.

Request for Help

Andrew Neher, from the Psychology Department at Cabrillo College, is writing a book for Prentice-Hall that discusses occultisms and empirical studies testing their validity. He requests readers to inform him of any empirical tests of beliefs such as "psychic" auras, therapy and reflexology, polarity therapy, iridology, homeopathy, the I Ching, radiesthesia, numerology, palmistry, and pyramid power. Readers are invited to reply directly or through the editor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the paranormal, the occult, spiritualism, and UFO phenomena, often examining their historical context and their relationship with science and rationalism. The magazine appears to maintain an academic and critical stance, evident in the detailed reviews that analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the books discussed, questioning methodologies and interpretations. There is a clear interest in distinguishing between scholarly research and popular polemic or uncritical acceptance of claims. The inclusion of a bibliography and a request for research assistance suggests a commitment to furthering the study of these subjects.

This document presents the contents of the first issue of the *Journal of Scientific Exploration*, Volume 1, Number 1, published in 1977-1978. The issue is primarily composed of book reviews, offering a broad survey of recent literature in fields such as parapsychology, UFOs, occultism, and anomalous phenomena. The publication appears to be from the American Society for Psychical Research and is based in the USA.

Book Reviews

The majority of the content consists of detailed reviews of various books:

• 'Search at Loch Ness: The Expedition of the New York Times and the Academy of Applied Science' by Dennis L. Meredith (1977) is described as a general account of the most recent attempt to solve the riddle of Loch Ness.
• 'Journeys Out of the Body' by Robert A. Monroe (1977) is a first-person account of astral projection experience, noted as intriguing but "scientifically nearly valueless."
• 'Ogopogo: The Okanagan Mystery' by Mary Moon (1977) is an excellent general survey of alleged "water monsters" in Canadian lakes, focusing on the famous Ogopogo of Okanagan Lake, sighted repeatedly since the late 1700s.
• 'A Sense of the Cosmos: The Encounter of Science with Ancient Truth' by Jacob Needleman (1976) is a humanistic approach to science and mysticism.
• 'Psience: A General Theory of Existence' by J. W. Nicholas (1977) is a metaphysical work with a "Caveat Lector" by Richard de Mille, of interest to ZS readers.
• 'At the Hour of Death' by Karlis Osis and Erlendur Haraldsson (1977) is a major international study of "death experiences" and survival, found unconvincing to skeptics but fascinating.
• 'The Indefinite Boundary' by Guy Lyon Playfair (1976) is a general work on the relationship between matter and spirit, largely anecdotal but readable, with items on psychic phenomena in Brazil.
• 'The Mysteries of the Great Pyramids' by A. Pochan (1978) is recommended as an excellent and largely debunking book on pyramid mysteries.
• 'Mind Beyond the Body: The Mystery of ESP Projection' edited by D. Scott Rogo (1978) is a first-rate collection of experimental evidence supporting Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs), noted for its intelligent level.
• 'The Devil: Perceptions of Evil from Antiquity to Primitive Christianity' by Jeffrey Burton Russell (1977) is a highly recommended major historical study.
• 'Celestial Passengers: UFOs and Space Travel' by Margaret Sachs and Ernest Jahn (1977) is a popular, largely uncritical pro-UFO survey based on NICAP files, also covering government projects related to space travel.
• 'Course on Scientific Examinations of Paranormal Phenomena: Resources and Suggestions for Educational Approaches' by Barry Singer (1977) is a valuable resource for teaching academic courses on science and the paranormal, including an outline and bibliography.
• 'Gods & Beasts: The Nazis & the Occult' by Dust Sklar (1977) claims links between occultism and Nazism but is found to be among the least useful books on the topic.
• 'Sun Myung Moon and the Unification Church' by Frederick Sontag (1977) is a decidedly pro-Moon book, considered essential reading for those interested in the Unification Church.
• 'The Scientist Looks at the Sasquatch' edited by Roderick Sprague and Grover S. Krantz (1977) is a compilation of seven scholarly articles on the sasquatch, aiming to encourage serious research.
• 'New Psychic Frontiers' by Walter and Mary Jo Uphoff (1977) is an uncritical but useful general survey of paranormal research areas, listing many names and addresses.
• 'Systems of North American Witchcraft and Sorcery' edited by Dward E. Walker, Jr. (1970) presents eleven ethnographic studies of sorcery and witchcraft.
• 'Philosophical Dimensions of Parapsychology' edited by James M. O. Wheatley and Hoyt L. Edge (1976) is an extremely useful collection of papers introducing philosophic issues in parapsychology.
• 'Future Science: Life Energies and the Physics of Paranormal Phenomena' edited by John White and Stanley Krippner (1977) is a treasure trove of intriguing material on parapsychology, though unlikely to convince skeptics.
• 'Handbook of Parapsychology' edited by Benjamin B. Wolman (1977) is a massive compilation with some excellent papers and reviews, though its organization is noted as strange.

Coming Next Issue

The document concludes with a preview of the next issue, which will include a bibliography of scientific studies of classical astrology, a review essay on the literature of anomalies, and articles on vampires and Velikovsky.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are parapsychology, UFOs, occultism, mysticism, and anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical engagement, with reviewers often offering nuanced opinions, praising the usefulness of a work while also pointing out its limitations or lack of scientific rigor (e.g., the review of Monroe's book). There is a clear interest in presenting a wide spectrum of research and thought within these fields, from the highly speculative to the more academically grounded.