PARAPSYCHOLOGY ABSTRACTS INTERNATIONAL

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: STARGATE
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
• Release Decision: RIFPUB
• Original Classification: U
• Document Page Count: 11
• Document Creation Date: November 4, 2016
• Document Release Date: October 27, 1998
• Sequence Number: 1
• Content Type: OPEN

402
yes set
'ns of
that a
sc re-
'pcncd
ion is
id 30
; the
to the
in re-
show-
,cn) --
:n the
ented
s that
Geller
occult
ed in
-resent
1' o n-
-a psy-
17(4),
less of
u b jects
rcmcly
ematic
test
-asis of
)d for
affects.
to Her
metals
:es. Ex-
pplying
metal
in the
and the
us, the
either
na, par-
val, arc
usion of
our glo-
of sur-
iswer to
apology:
Ombra,
teems to
and cx-
~gical in
of the
Appre*ey ,Retiaasreo2a000/08/11: CIA-RDP96-00792R00040Q1h001-0
world. As a consequence, the method to be used in the
study of the probable paranormal aspects of magic should
not be experimental, because the experimental method is
based on assumptions opposite those supporting magic
phenomena. The best method for this kind of research
could be that of the human sciences, which also can be
applied to the study of paranormality, which should be
considered as a cultural phenomenon. - DA
01922. Di Simone, Giorgio. In memory of Jacopo Co-
min. Luce e Ombra, 1984 (Jul/Sep), 84(3), 231-232.
Giorgio di Simone, who was a very good friend of
Jacopo Comin, recalls in this short but touching note the
death of Comin, his interest in parapsychology, and his
deep conviction of the reality of survival. - DA
01923. Ravaldini, Silvio. Jacopo Comin, a champion of
the spirit. Luce e Ombra, 1984 (Jul/Sep), 84(3), 233-257.
75 refs
This article is dedicated to the memory of Jacopo
Comin, the Italian scholar who died in 1973. He was a
great and enthusiastic supporter of the spiritistic hypothesis
and of the reality of survival. His work, consisting of ar-
ticles, book reviews, and lectures, have been many: the au-
thor cites the writings about direct voice, the history of
parapsychology, and the important review of the book of
Susy Smith, The Enigma of Out-of-Body Travel. Comin
was a very good propagator of a difficult subject and did
not like the description of phenomena by means of num-
bers and statistics. He considered facts as occasions to
practice speculative thought, with prudence and objectivity,
without easy enthusiasms, and always looking for truth.
The article ends with the description of a seance held by
the Centro Italian di Parapsicologia of Naples. A bibli-
ography of Comin's work is appended. - DA
01924. Sbacchi, Vincenzo di. An analysis of Cicerone's
work, "De Divination," in the light of current psychi-
cal research. Luce e Ombra, 1984 (Jul/Sep), 84(3), 258-
264. 12 refs
The author analyzes the work, De Divinatione, by
M.T. Cicerone, which shows the method used by the
Roman orator in misevaluation of divination, and em-
phasizes his critical ability to judge mysterious events.
Some of these are reported in the article and evaluated
according to the methods of modern psychical research. -
DA/R.A.W.
01925. Garzia, Plerangelo. Servadio in his 80th year.
Luce e Ombra, 1984 (Jul/Sep), 84(3), 265-267.
On August 14th Emilio Servadio became 80 years
old. He was born in Genova, but he went to Rome, where
he still lives, in 1946. From 1938 to 1945 he lived in India,
where he worked as a psychoanalyst. His interest in the
problem of human personality, from the psychological and
parapsychological points of view, was very precocious.
When he was 13 years old, he read The Great Initiated
(1899) by Edward Schure, which impressed him very much.
Referring to psi phenomena, Schure says in the introduc-
tion of his book: "Modern science has made very little
steps in this field." For the young Servadio, this was an
exalting challenge, and still today he is working on it. -
DA
METAPSICHICA RIVISTA ITALIANA
DI PARAPSICOLOGIA
01926. Mengoli, Ettore, Occhipinti, Luigi, and Inardi,
Massimo. Considerations concerning the 25th anniver-
sary of A.I.S.M. Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di
Parapsicologia, 1970 (Jul/Dec), 25(3/4), 97-103, 111.
The President observes that Prof. W.H.C. Tcnhaeff
has accepted the honorary presidency of A.I.S.M. (Associa-
zione Italiana Scientifica di Metapsichica), whose foreign
connections are increasing. Some research is programmed
for 1971. Mr. Occhipinti cites names and events. The Presi-
dent of the sister association, Centro Studi Parapsicologici
of Bologna, has sent cordial greetings. - DA
01927. Nestler, V. In memory of Mrs. E.J. Garrett.
Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di Parapsicologia, 1970
(Jul/Dec), 25(3/4), 104-111. 1 illus; 15 refs
The author illustrates three aspects of the late Mrs.
Garrett: the medium, the researcher, and the founder of
the Parapsychology Foundation, and underlines her ample
contribution to the development of psi studies everywhere.
-DA
01928. Di Simone, Giorgio. Sitting with Gustavo Adolfo
Rol. Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di Parapsicologia,
1970 (Jul/Dec), 25(3/4), 112-118. 43 refs
The author draws some conclusions based on a single
sitting with Rol: (1) The axis of the phenomena is iden-
tified as a force similar to that of one of those discar-
nate intelligences who take part in spiritualism; (2) an
ideal harmonic structure has been achieved by Rol through
years of trials and experiments. - DA
01929. Cumin, Jacopo. Notes about reports and debate
on G.A. Rol. Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di Parapsi-
cologia, 1970 (Jul/Dcc), 25(3/4), 119-122, 118.
The author declares that he considers mediumship as
a charisma that compares well with divine grace. In his
opinion this state has been fully reached in Rol's per-
sonality, especially when he performs experiments of high
importance by rearranging decks of cards. - DA
01930. Assennato, Pericl'e. Physiology and parapsycho-
logical phenomena. Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di
Parapsicologia, 1970 (Jul/Dec), 25(3/4), 123-125.
The author, after noting that the difference between
parapsychological phenomena and normal phenomena is
only a question of quantity, observes that present
knowledge of human physiology is not yet in a position to
give sufficient explanations of paranormal phenomena, but
only more or less plausible hypotheses. Only by remark-
able progress in physiology and neurophysiology can these
fields make an important contribution to the study of the
parapsychological phenomena. - DA
01931. Riccardi, Nicola. Mediumistic movement of tents.
Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di Parapsicologia, 1970
(Jul/Dec), 25(3/4), 126-134. 6 refs
The author hypothesizes that in her dissociated state
of trance Eusapia Palladino could make her unconscious
mind produce, among other deeds, strong movements of
tents. The medium's intentions and desires penetrated her
mind with extraordinary strength, creating many impersonal
entities molded in her own unconscious substance. In-
visible, they executed the motions of the tents. -
DA/R.A.W.
01932. Kuchynka, Karel. Jugoslav clairvoyant Mrs. C.
Dolczal. Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di Parapsico-
logia, 1970 (Jul/Dec), 25(3/4), 135-142.
The author presents many extracts from the diary of
a nonprofessional psychic, Mrs. C. Dolczal, for the years
1932 to 1937. There are accounts of spontaneous visions in
the waking state, precognitive visions in the dreaming
state, induced visions, telepathy, PK, and hauntings. - DA
01933. Zorab, George. Sittings with D.D. Home at Am-
sterdam. Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di Parapsico-
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
 Carl
in-
ob-
of
he
ies
-us
is
ut
to
-al
id
of
-s'
d
tg
s,
it
e
s
p ,-ohvgd FA?r sta?
lose 000/08/11: CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
Vol. 6, No. 2 December 1988
03036. A.F: S.R. Seances at the Esseno Circle. Luce e
Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 16-22.
Short review of the experiences of the members of
the Esseno Circle during the activity of the Circle itself.
After the first classic s6ances around a three-legged table,
in a short time the phenomenology widened. The guests
could have philosophical discussions with the different en-
tities and receive very interesting responses with a per-
sonal meaning for the person to whom it was directed.
During one of the s6ances, different entities presented
themselves to the guests and one of these, after the
farewells, said it was the last time he would be present
because he was ready for reincarnation. As a final greet-
ing all the entities materialized a carved medallion and a
fresh rosebud still moist with dew for some guests coming
from Bologna and Florence. - DA/R.A.W.
03037. lannuzzo, Giovanni. Metapsychiatry: The
psychiatric approach to the paranormal. Luce e
Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 23-30. 32 refs
The author discusses the concept of "metapsychiatry,"
a field of psychiatric inquiry that deals with parapsycho-
logical phenomena, thanatology, and "psychic healing." He
reviews some contributions in this area and briefly
analyzes the available literature. He believes that meta-
psychiatry can suggest some new scientific interpretations
of phenomena traditionally included in the definition of
"paranormal." - DA/R.A.W.
03038. Glovetti, Paola. Correspondence between C.G.
Jung and J.B. Rhine-Father of today's parapsycho-
logy. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 31-35.
C.G. Jung was always very interested, in parapsycho-
logy research and followed with great attention the experi-
ments of J.B. Rhine at Duke University. 'The two psy-
chologists were in touch and exchanged several letters,
which show very clearly Jung's position toward para-
psychology. In this article the author reports on a portion
of these letters and also on some others in which Jung ex-
presses his ideas about transpersonal problems. - DA
03039. Passanisi, Renzo. Is paranthropology a useless
science? Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 36-4& 4
refs
In the past it was thought that anthropology and
parapsychology should become more linked. To do so we
think parapsychology ought to look more attentively at the
data coming from the anthropological research field, while
the latter should consider the possibility that magical
events are paranormal phenomena too. The possibility has
been raised of starting a new discipline acting as an inter-
mediary between these two sciences, a so-called
"paranthropology," which would verify the paranormal
reality both inside the magic context and the "primitive"
cultures. The author thinks that a link between para-
psychology and anthropology must be made at a different
meeting point. The first branch should test magic
phenomena, comparing them with the data from the ex-
perimental researches made in laboratory. In fact, looking
at the question attentively, the magic event presents itself
as a suitable complement to traditional experiments, having
the basic characteristics (rituals, intentional effort,
predisposition to the preliminary conditions), enriched with
the variances missed in laboratory (complete emotivity, in-
tcrhuman connection, etc.). A comparison between eth-
nographic records and experiments might, then, supply us
with important information, providing that all material is
validated in the right way. An inquiry carried out in this
way would assist us in seeing where other phenomena such
as divination, psychometry, mediumship, usually not con-
sidered by "scientific" parapsychology, fit in. - DA/R.A.W.
03040. Masi, Felice. The magic dimension of archaic-
primitive populations. Luce a Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar),
87(1), 49-55.
The author compares magic found among noncivilized
peoples and paranormal phenomena found in our industrial
civilization. What is the meaning for archaic-primitive
people of the magical practices made by the sorcerers,
shamans, medicine-men, curanderos, etc.? Western culture is
oriented toward the materiality of things. In fact, our per-
sonal universe is entirely made of material things we want
to have and to use. For the nontechnological cultures, in-
stead, the inside of things, or better yet, their soul, is con-
sidered more important. Consequently, for these people,
spirits live inside things and sorcerers are the way to reach
them. It is very interesting to see how nontechnological
people respect nature, at which they arrive by means of
the shaman, avoiding useless slaughter, and hunting only
for food. We Western people went away from the soul,
and it is for this reason that we need the help of
psychologists to remove the phantasms who obsess us. -
DA/R.A.W.
03041. Masi, Felice. The shaman's mental ability.
Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 56-6L 11 refs
For archaic-primitive populations, spirits are
everywhere and inside everything. They can be benign or
adverse, so that people must face this reality if they want
to survive. That is the reason why the shaman is so im-
portant to them. Only after having known, by means of
ecstatic travel, the involved spirit, will the shaman be able
to mediate in settling the situation. Therefore, the
shaman's own ability is to put himself mentally in contact
with the Forces, Powers, and Spirits of the Macrocosm.
Even if such travel is done with the help of hallucinogenic
drugs, the shaman is not involved by drugs but is able to
set himself free because of his training. In this way he
reacts to the lack of outside stimuli in becoming receptive
to the inside ones. Another way to reach it is given by
sensory deprivation, a technique utilized by the hermits in
many religions. The important answer coming from these
disciplines is that such a technique gives as a final result
the emergence of the deepest perceptions. - DA
03042. Bianco, Elena. Problems in mediumistic litera-
ture. Luce a Ombra , 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 65-71.
Taking the book Universal Structure and Mediumis-
tic Thought by Luciano Cuomo, Mariella Fiore, and Fran-
cesco Cilento as a starting point, the author draws atten-
tion to some problems concerning the literature about ex-
trasensory perception. This branch of literature is never
taken into account by official cultural centers. It follows
that neither analytic work nor a comparison among the
various messages is made. Instead, in order to clarify both
their value and authenticity this should be carried out.
The three authors of this book specify how to conduct a
valid analytical approach to the matter. - DA/R.A.W.
03043. Gradellini, Maurizio. Hatchings for a unitary
theory. Luce a Ombra, 1987 (Apr/Jun), 87(2), 105-123. 6
refs
The underlying problems of humankind are evident
even in the physical sciences. Science, after having dis-
covered the illusory and subjective nature in many of its
"certitudes" (especially when the brain is thoroughly ex-
amined) has reached a "0 point" where even math cannot
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
 Carl
in-
ob-
of
he
ies
Ms
is
)st
to
7al
Id
it-
of
-s'
a-
d
ag
e
s,
it
e
s
1,jagqygg FAgarr t"slpt~se 0010/08/11 :CIA-RDP96-00792R0004001`20001-0
N
03036. A.F.-S.R. Seances at the Esseno Circle. Luce e
Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 16-22.
Short review of the experiences of the members of
the Esseno Circle during the activity of the Circle itself.
After the first classic seances around a three-legged table,
in a short time the phenomenology widened. The guests
could have philosophical discussions with the different en-
tities and receive very interesting responses with a per-
sonal meaning for the person to whom it was directed.
During one of the seances, different entities presented
themselves to the guests and one of these, after the
farewells, said it was the last time he would be present
because he was ready for reincarnation. As a final greet-
ing all the entities materialized a carved medallion and a
fresh rosebud still moist with dew for some guests coming
from Bologna and Florence. - DA/R.A.W.
03037. lannuzzo, Giovanni. Metapsychiatry: The
psychiatric approach to the paranormal. Luce e
Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 23-30. 32 refs
The author discusses the concept of "metapsychiatry,"
a field of psychiatric inquiry that deals with parapsycho-
logical phenomena, thanatology, and "psychic healing." He
reviews some contributions in this area and briefly
analyzes the available literature. He believes that meta-
psychiatry can suggest some new scientific interpretations
of phenomena traditionally included in the definition of
"paranormal." - DA/R.A.W.
03038. Giovetti, Paola. Correspondence between C.G.
Jung and J.B. Rhine-Father of today's parapsycho-
logy. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 31-35.
C.G. Jung was always very interested, in parapsycho-
logy research and followed with great attention the experi-
ments of J.B. Rhine at Duke University. 'The two psy-
chologists were in touch and exchanged several letters,
which show very clearly Jung's position toward para-
psychology. In this article the author reports on a portion
of these letters and also on some others in which Jung ex-
presses his ideas about transpersonal problems. - DA
03039. Passanisi, Renzo. Is paranthropology a useless
science? Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(l), 36-48. 4
refs
In the past it was thought that anthropology and
parapsychology should become more linked. To do so we
think parapsychology ought to look more attentively at the
data coming from the anthropological research field, while
the latter should consider the possibility that magical
events are paranormal phenomena too. The possibility has
been raised of starting a new discipline acting as an inter-
mediary between these two sciences, a so-called
"paranthropology," which would verify the paranormal
reality both inside the magic context and the "primitive"
cultures. The author thinks that a link between para-
psychology and anthropology must be made at a different
meeting point. The first branch should test magic
phenomena, comparing them with the data from the ex-
perimental researches made in laboratory. In fact, looking
at the question attentively, the magic event presents itself
as a suitable complement to traditional experiments, having
the basic characteristics (rituals, intentional effort,
predisposition to the preliminary conditions), enriched with
the variances missed in laboratory (complete emotivity, in-
terhuman connection, etc.). A comparison between eth-
nographic'records and experiments might, then, supply us
with important information, providing that all material is
validated in the right way. An inquiry carried out in this
0. ,
o. 2 llecemuer 1988
way would assist us in seeing where other phenomena such
as divination, psychometry, mediumship, usually not con-
sidered by "scientific" parapsychology, fit in. - DA/R.A.W.
03040. Masi, Felice. The magic dimension of archaic-
primitive populations. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar),
87(1), 49-55.
The author compares magic found among noncivilized
peoples and paranormal phenomena found in our industrial
civilization. What is the meaning for archaic-primitive
people of the magical practices made by the sorcerers,
shamans, medicine-men, curanderos, etc.? Western culture is
oriented toward the materiality of things. In fact, our per-
sonal universe is entirely made of material things we want
to have and to use. For the nontechnological cultures, in-
stead, the inside of things, or better yet, their soul, is con-
sidered more important. Consequently, for these people,
spirits live inside things and sorcerers are the way to reach
them. It is very interesting to see how nontechnological
people respect nature, at which they arrive by means of
the shaman, avoiding useless slaughter, and hunting only
for food. We Western people went away from the soul,
and it is for this reason that we need the help of
psychologists to remove the phantasms who obsess us. -
DA/R.A.W.
03041. Masi, Felice. The shaman's mental ability.
Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 56-61. 11 refs
For archaic-primitive populations, spirits are
everywhere and inside everything. They can be benign or
adverse, so that people must face this reality if they want
to survive. That is the reason why the shaman is so im-
portant to them. Only after having known, by means of
ecstatic travel, the involved spirit, will the shaman be able
to . mediate in settling the situation. Therefore, the
shaman's own ability is to put himself mentally in contact
with the Forces, Powers, and Spirits of the Macrocosm.
Even if such travel is done with the help of hallucinogenic
drugs, the shaman is not involved by drugs but is able to
set himself free because of his training. In this way he
reacts to the lack of outside stimuli in becoming receptive
to the inside ones. Another way to reach it is given by
sensory deprivation, a technique utilized by the hermits in
many religions. The important answer coming from these
disciplines is that such a technique gives as a final result
the emergence of the deepest perceptions. - DA
03042. Bianco, Elena. Problems in mediumistic litera-
ture. Luce e Ombra , 1987 (Jan/Mar), 87(1), 65-71.
Taking the book Universal Structure and Mediumis-
tic Thought by Luciano Cuomo, Mariella Fiore, and Fran-
cesco Cilento as a starting point, the author draws atten-
tion to some problems concerning the literature about ex-
trasensory perception. This branch of literature is never
taken into account by official cultural centers. It follows
that neither analytic work nor a comparison among the
various messages is made. Instead, in order to clarify both
their value and authenticity this should be carried out.
The three authors of this book specify how to conduct a
valid analytical approach to the matter. - DA/R.A.W.
03043. Gradellini, MaurizIo. Hatchings for a unitary
theory. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Apr/Jun), 87(2), 105-123. 6
refs
The underlying problems of humankind are evident
even in the physical sciences. Science, after having dis-
covered the illusory and subjective nature in many of its
"certitudes" (especially when the brain is thoroughly ex-
amined) has reached a "0 point" where even math cannot
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
 Approved For Release 2000/08/11: CIA-RDP96-00792R0.0040012000,
Parapsychology Abstracts International
that the strict application of the double-blind method of-
fers the researcher the guarantee of absolute objectivity in
estimating results, - DA/R.A.W.
03616. Rigato, Mario. The possibility of suggestive in-
fluences in certain analgesic effects of mag-
netotherapy: A boundary problem between para-
psychology and unquestioned sciences. Quaderni di
Parapsicologia, 1986, 17(1), 46-48.
The clinical effects of pulsed magnetic fields are
easily controllable by means of radiography and other ob-
jective data. On the other hand, the purely analgesic ef-
fects declared by the patient are not controllable. Some
authors suggest that a placebo effect is present. On this
problem an experimental research program is presented to
be carried out in collaboration with the Parapsychology
Laboratory of The University of Utrecht. The aim is to
point out some aspects which could involve academic or-
thodoxy as well as parapsychology. - DA/R.A.W.
03617. Bersani, Ferdinando, and Travisan, Bruno. Ex-
periences with psycholinguistic PK. Quaderni di Para-
psicologia, 1986, 17(1), 49-53. 1 ref
Last year we presented a new method that could
detect some possible PK effects catalyzed by the interpreta-
tion of semirandom acoustic signals recorded on a tape re-
corder. In a previous study we investigated the possibility
of perceiving linguistic patterns in suitable nonlinguistic
acoustic events. The two essential conditions in order to
obtain such effects were: (a) the availability of sounds
that could be listened to over and over again on a tape
recorder, and (b) the propensity of the subject to under-
stand that what they are listening to is a linguistic mes-
sage.
As we showed last year, the hypothesis can be formu-
lated which says that a condition can be produced during
the linguistic interpretation that is particularly conducive
in order to produce some PK effects by which a
"nonintentional" modification of acoustic patterns could
result in better equating the acoustic event to a linguistic
model produced by the subject's mind. This hypothesis
also fits with Stanford's "conformance behavior" model. In
our set-up, the physical target of the PK is the electronic
device by which the acoustic events are processed.
In other words, our present investigation involves the
possibility of detecting some modifications in the electronic
"processing" of the acoustic signals previously recorded. In
our pilot attempts the subject was requested to listen
(using headphones) to suitable signals, and his emotional
,.,,involvement was monitored via an electronic device called
the "oracle," wherein the subject asks the "oracle" to speak
about some personal questions. In other words, the acoustic
signals can be used as targets for a short projective test in
which the subject is particularly involved. In order to im-
prove the psychological connection between the electronic
device and the subjects, we introduced some modifications
into the circuits with respect to the previous instrumenta-
tion, and we also introduced feedback by means of a small
light that flashes when the "oracle" speaks. With these
modifications we have conducted an extensive investigation
with quite a large number of subjects. No PK effect was
detected. Nevertheless, experimentation is still going on in
order to obtain a very large amount of data. - DA/R.A.W.
03618. Dcttorc, Ugo. A hypothesis of clairvoyance. Quad-
erni di Parapsicologia, 1986, 17(1), 54-60.
We hypothesize a sensoriality in time (past and fu-
ture) on the pattern of which the sensoriality in space
(present), peculiar to the five known senses, would have
Vol. 7, No. 2 December 1989
formed. The sensoriality in time would be peculiar to all,
living and nonliving beings; the one in space would belong
only to living beings, even if potentially present in the
nonliving ones. Clairvoyance would consist in the sen-
soriality in time (retrocognition and ,precognition); clair-
voyance in the present, or cryptesthesia, would in reality
be a perception of the immediate past, displaced only by a
few moments as to the present. On the basis of time sen-
soriality, it would have formed intuitive thought which is
always creative and leads to the evolution of all beings; on
the basis of space sensoriality, it would have developed ra-
tional thought, which in itself isn't creative but only aims
at settling fixed relations, or laws, among beings. The in-
teraction between the two sensorialities and the two forms
of thought offers us the whole of reality. - DA/R.A.W.
03619. Martelli, Aldo. Experiences of collaboration with
certain prestidigitators in the investigation of some
presumably paranormal cases. Quaderni di Para-
psicologia, 1986, 17(1), 61-68.
On several occasions, during our investigations and
experimental researches on some supposed paranormal
phenomena, we availed ourselves of the collaboration of
two conjurors: Vanni Bossi and Alexander. In our
opinion, such collaboration is useful and advisable. Ob-
viously, one should consider certain difficulties, deriving,
for instance, from the conjurors' engagements. W
h have ate agree with
al a a that it
good is not ougIt is
also necessary that the conjurer is practiced, not only in
conjuring tricks in general, but also with those tricks that
"paranormal" subjects could perform.
Thanks to Alexander's collaboration, we investigated a
supposed phenomenon of water creation. The subject was
a 1S-year-old girl. This case proved to be a trick as the
girl, thanks to her extraordinary skill, was able to put out
the salivary secretion through her imperceptibly half-open
lips. We also investigated a case of an 11-year-old boy
who had been described as the protagonist of many extraor-
dinary ESP and PK phenomena. In our presence, the boy
was able only to make a thermometer mercury rise, by
means of a "trick," unconscious perhaps, but soon revealed.
Moreover, in 1978, in Milan, Alexander caught Geller bend-
ing a key by hand, simulating PK. He was able to
reproduce the success in the same way.
We made use of the two conjurors' opinions also in
order to examine (as deeply as possible) about 30 experi-
ments. They involved metal bending and of other kinds,
selected among over 200 experiments performed during
some years with half a dozen "mini-gellers," and with
Professor Bersani's collaboration. We chose that experi-
ments because we considered them valid as far as their
paranormal "genuineness" was concerned.
In this case, we should be satisfied with the con-
jurors' posterior judgment that is given on the basis of our
account. In fact, we cannot have them at our disposal all
throughout the experiment. The explanations for the
phenomena, that the conjurors gave separately, partly coin-
cided, partly contrasted, and only two were judged tenable,
on the basis of our experimental experience. In some
cases, then, the conjurors admitted that, if things had ac-
tually gone as we had described, the only explanation they
could give was the operator's inattention. - DA/R.A,W,
03620. Cassoli, Piero. A contribution to the study of
pranotherapy. Quaderni di Parapsicologia, 1986, 17(1),
69-89. 43 refs; 1 table
The author, a physician, discusses problems concerning
'healers." For many years he has been investigating only
12
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
 Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-R.DP96-00792R000400120001-0
Exceptional Human Experience
is the Self" (p. 6). Everyone moves on a different
path, and he classifies the various experiences as
occurring to those on the following 7 paths: the
way of Beauty, the way of action, the way of il-
lumination, the way of dance and ritual, the way
of science, the way of devotion, and the way of
the will. He does not conceive of these ways as
set courses--on the contrary, "it is a process that
engages us in ever new situations" (p. 7). Each in-
dividual, in proceeding along a way to the Self,
"comes into contact with an entirely new realm
that transcends the confines of individuality--the
transpersonal level" (pp. 8-9). In seven chapters,
each devoted to one of the above ways, he
describes that way and provides many published
examples to illustrate it. At first glance, these tan-
talizing quotations annoyingly are not referenced,
but the citations are listed by page number at the
end of the book.
It is the aim of this worthwhile book to
change our image of ourselves and others through
the study of these transpersonal experiences.
Moreover, "transpersonal states . are communi-
cated and resonate in those who are exposed to
them, even in written form" (p. 11). Finally,
"descriptions of higher states evoke in many the
desire to experience them. This desire is not a
passing whim, but a deep aspiration that may take
the shape of a Way to the Self" (p. 11). - R.A.W.
SCHOLARLY OVERVIEWS
07._ Alyj tJ. ,.. Carlos S. Parapsychology and
urna
from Ital
. ...,
l o~ the/
----
-'aciety for Psychical Research, 1990 (Jul), 56(820), 221-
225. 11 refs
The author discusses the relationship of para-
psycholo y and religion within the context of a
1988 conference on the subject held at Bologna in
1988. The proceedings of this conference comprise
an entire issue of the Italian journal Quaderni di
Parapsicologia (1989, vol. 20). Alvarado briefly sum-
marizes and then comments on the papers.
Andreas Resch presented an overview of ideas
about psychic phenomena in the Catholic Church.
Giorgio Gafgliardi and Marco Margenelli sum-
marizes psychophysiological studies of 5 children
claiming to have had visions of the Virgin Mary
since 1981 at Medjugorje, Yugoslavia. Reginaldo
Thorel's paper was about psi phenomena as-
sociated with St. Catherine of Sienna and Gian-
carlo Rosatio and the same for Sai Baba. Emilio
Servadio theorized the psi phenomena are partly
transcendental and partly physical. Sergio Ber-
nardi spoke of the different levels of reality in
Eastern philosophy and religion. Alfonso di Nola
rejected a transcendental world and postulates that
all paranormal phenomena, including so-called
miracles, are explicable in terms of human psi.
Filipo Liverziani differentiates between mediumis-
tic and saintly levitations. The author suggests
that parapsychology is not sufficiently well ad-
vanced to answer some of the questions raised at
the conference. He also warns that one should not
confuse "ignorance of causal mechanisms with
evidence of transcendental realities or nonphysical
properties" (p. 224). He also points to our lack of
knowledge concerning the naturalistic context of
miraculous phenomena: If Dara svelLodaiLy i
Approved For Release 20 O/08/11
Vol. 9, No. 1 June 1991
going to be meaningful for issues such as the
study of miracles or the influence of religious en-
vironments on the manifestation of psychic
phenomena it will have to pay more attention to
its subject matter as it occurs outside of the
laboratory" (p. 224). - R.A.W.
04508. Hixon, Lex. Coming Home: The Experience of En-
lightenment in Sacred Traditions. Los Angeles: Jeremy
P. Tarcher, 1989. 215p. Bibl. notes: 210-214; 11 illus
This book is about spiritual enlightenment but,
as Ken Wilber points out in the Foreword, Hixon's
approach is fresh. He takes 10 of the world's
major spiritual traditions and in each case
presents its teachings and precepts with the aim of
leading the reader to "release [him- or herself] into
spirit as it manifests itself through each of those
traditions" (p. xiii). Hixon is not concerned with
the historical and doctrinal trappings of these dis-
ciplines but with the timeless awareness that is at
the core. Each discipline serves as a vehicle for
realization, or as Wilber puts it, "experimental prac-
tices. They are experiments to perform (and thus
see through form). They are something to do and
then be, not something to merely think and then
believe" (p. viii). Hixon himself writes: "These es-
says present several universes or languages of
Spirit whose central theme is Enlightenment.
Each is unique, yet all are rich with mutual cor-
respondences because they reflect one primal
awareness. The spiritual dimension of culture is
not an array of dogmatic world views bristling
with contradictions but a spectrum of contempla-
tive practices, equivalent in essence, which lead
toward experience rather than toward doctrinal
assertion. Coming Home attempts to open various
doors into this spiritual dimension" (p. xi).
The teachings covered are the "European and
Asian Approaches of Heidegger and
Krishnamurti," "Ramakrishna of Bengal, "Ramana
Maharshi," "Zen Ox-herding," "Plotinus and the
Metaphysics of Spiritual Quest," "Jewish Soul
Masters of the Hasidic Way," "Letters of Saint
Paul," "Teachings of the Contemporary Sufi Bawa
Muhaiyaddeen; "The Oracle Text of the I Ching,"
and "Toward the Turiya of Advaita Vedanta." -
R.A.W.
04509. Laski, Marglianita. Ecstasy: In Secular and
Religious Experiences. Los Angeles, CA: Jeremy P.
Tarcher, 1990, c1961. 544p. 2 graphs; Index: 534-544;
191 refs; 12 tables
Jeremy Tarcher has initiated a new series of
reprints entitled "Library of Spiritual Classics."
Ecstasy certainly belongs in this category. It is a
report of an empirical survey Laski made of
ecstatic experience, not wanting to prejudge such
experiences as being either supernormal or morbid
as other writers seemed to have done. After read-
ing the literature on ecstasy, she devised a ques-
tionnaire and gave it to 63 acquaintances to obtain
60 who replied affirmatively to her first question,
which was "Do you know a sensation of transcen-
dent ecstasy"? She also searched published texts
for accounts of ecstatic experience, dividing them
into twoggrow s: literary and religious. In the first
titA-` bO96?0b-142RftO4G0112U0 lLo d of
 Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R00040012000.1-0
chologie and Grenzgebiete der Psychologie, 1972, 14(4), 244-251.
33 refs
In a survey of the literature concerning parapsychic phenomena
and drugs, the author concludes that obviously only the use of
so-called hallucinogens (such as LSD, mescaline, psilocybin, and,
with reservations, hashish and marijuana) is associated with
parapsychic abilities, whereas the use of opiates (such as opium,
heroin, and morphine) does not seem to touch this field. It is
hypothesized that because of the different pharmaco-psychological
functioning of hallucinogens, intoxication by these substances
might be rather suitable for stimulating the aggressive and
instinctive parts of man. They seem to be a characteristic feature of
psi abilities also. Opiates, on the other hand, do not seem to affect
this sphere because these substances are mainly narcotizing. The
effects of cocaine, amphetamines, tranquilizers, and soporifics
cannot be judged on the basis of the surveyed literature. It is shown
that the possible relevance of drug use to parapsychology is
completely ignored by most textbooks dealing with drugs, the
authors of which are mainly medical men, psychiatrists, or
pharmacologists. - G.H.
01396. Schmidbauer, Wolfgang. On the psychology of the oracle.
Zeitschrift fur Parapsychologie and Grenzgebiete der Psychologie,
1972, 14(4), 222-234. [Originally published in Psychologische
Rundschau, 1970, 21, 88-98.] 30 refs
The author describes various practices of oracles with reference
to ethnographic reports and attempts to sketch a model that
optimally includes psychological aspects in these reports. The
function of trance within the oracle and its sociopsychological
moorings (shamans) are pointed out. An analysis of oracular
practices with principles derived from projective tests shows
certain structural similarities with the situation in which a person
seeking advice finds himself. - DA/R.A.W.
ITALIAN LANGUAGE
LUCE E UMBRA
(Editor: Paola Giovetti)
01397. Di Simone, Giorgio. The "Entita A." case. Luce e Umbra,
1985 (Jan/Mar), 85(l), 22-29.8 refs
After a long preamble mostly dedicated to the historical and
technical aspects of the seances of "Mister X" (a trance medium
whose name he is not allowed to mention), the author underlines
the great importance of the revolutionary contents of these
seances, which took place in Naples more than 30 years ago (about
1950-1980). These contents are extremely logical, rational, and
coherent, and the author collected them in several books, first of all
Rapporto dalla dimensione X, (Roma 1973/84). The author
mentions also the experiments he organized (1971 and 1974) in
order to check the independence of the supposed communicating
"entity" (Entita A) from the medium (comparative analysis of the
voices with the "voice-print" method and an EEG of the medium,
awake and during his speaking-trance). - DA
01398. lannuzzo, Giovanni. Parapsychology and anthropology:
A note. Luce e Umbra, 1985 (Jan/Mar), 85(1), 30-34. 18 refs
The author analyses the connections between parapsychology
and anthropology, and asserts that these connections should be of
different kinds: accounts of psi phenomena should be evaluated
according to both parapsychological and anthropological patterns,
and accounts of psi phenomena also should be evaluated only from
the parapsychological point of view (a "parapsycographical"
pattern). Experimental methods, utilized in some field researches,
are considered insufficient. The author suggests a new methodo-
logical approach in which "paranormality" is considered a cross-
cultural event. According to this model, it seems to be necessary, in
psychical research, to utilize the methods and conceptual patterns
of the "human" sciences. - DA
01399. Ravaldini, Silvio. A pioneer of psychical research: Alex-
andre N. Aksakof. Luce e Otnbra, 1985 (Jan/ Mar) 85(1), 43-54. 8
refs
The author describes the life and work of one of the pioneers of
psychical research, Alexandre Aksakof. His activities were directed
at establishing the reality of paranormal phenomena. His early
work was published in Germany, due to the censorship exerted in
Russia by religious and lay authorities. Aksakof was an alert
experimenter and had the occasion to be present in the seances of
two great mediums: D.D. Home and Florence Cook. In the year
1874, Aksakof founded in Germany the journal Psrchische
Studien, which later had a great importance for both theoretical
study and for practical experimentation. Later he published (1890)
his important book, Animism and Spiritism, which can be
considered a positive answer to the book, Spiritism, of E. von
Hartmann, which practically denied the physical phenomena.
Aksakof devoted nearly all his life to promulgating spiritualistic
ideals in a world where materialism was dominant, and left an
important legacy, both as man and as researcher. -- DA/ R.A.W.
01400. Giovetti, Paola. The possession case of Siano(Catanzaro).
Luce e Umbra, 1985 (Jan/Mar), 85(1), 55-59. I ref.
The author interviewed Dr. Pericle Assennato, a retired magis-
trate who long ago (1936) was present when an exceptional case of
possession took place in a little village of South Italy, Siano near
Catanzaro. Three years earlier the dead body of a young man,
Giuseppe Verardi of Catanzaro, had been found under a bridge.
The investigation concluded that it was suicide. Three years later,
Maria Talarico, 17, a young girl of Siano, passed over the bridge
and had a sudden and strange metamorphosis that lasted 36 hours:
Her voice changed and became that of a man, she insisted that
she was Giuseppe Verardi and acted as if she were. She did not
recognize her parents, but she did recognize the mother of
Giuseppe and revealed that Giuseppe did not commit suicide but
was killed. She mentioned the names of the killers, as well. The
population of the whole village assisted in uncovering the facts.
After 36 hours Maria went under the bridge, took the position the
dead body of Giuseppe had had, and "awakened" without
remembering anything. After that, a new investigation concluded
for a case of murder. Dr. Assennato gives his interpretation of this
interesting case. - DA
METAPSICHICA RI VISTA
ITALIAN,! DI PARAPSICOLOGIA
01401. Crosa, G. Report of the First International Congress on
Parapsychology of the Italian-Swiss Center for Advanced Studies.
Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di Parapsicologia, 1969 (Jul Dec),
24(3/4),109-116.
Thanks to the hospitality of the Italian-Swiss Center for
Advanced Studies (Campione d'Italia), the First International
Congress on Parapsychology of Campione d'Italia was held on
March 29, 1969. The general topic was Mysterious Psychic
Phenomena. Introductory speeches were made by Mr. F. De
I3aggis, Mayor of the host town; Dr. Naegeli-Osjord, President of
the Schweizer Parapsychologische Gesellschaft; and Mr. E. Men-
goli, President of the Associazione Italiana Scientifica di Meta-
psichica. In this report we have the main features of the papers
presented by four M.D.s and psychiatrists (Crosa, Granone,
Naegeli-Osjord, Cassoli) and the theologian Resch are summarized.
During the evening session some slides about hypnosis (with
commentary by Granone) and one about Ted Serios were pro-
jected, followed by a discussion masterly directed by Prof. I3eonio
Brocchieri. In addition to the previously mentioned speakers,
presentations were made by two medical doctors, Inardi and
Buscaino; a newspaperman, Altavilla; and a theologian, Pisoni,
who cleverly aroused the participation of the public. The Proceed-
ings have been published by Silva of Rome. - DT/ R.A.W.
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA2-I DP96-00792R000400120001-0
 Approved For Release 2000/08/11: CIA-RDP96-007928.000400 9004*01
Parapsychology Abstracts International
03055. Costa, Alfonso. About the visions of dying per-
sons and survival. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jul/Sep), 87(3),
260-270. 15 refs
The attention recently addressed to near-death ex-
periences has confined to the background a phenomenon to
which much more attention was paid in the past: that of
visions of dying persons. Reconsidering once again two
books which can be considered as classics of this matter,
the author re-opens a discussion about this specific
phenomenon. He classifies deathbed visions in four classes:
(1) visions of dead people whose death was known to the
dying person; (2) visions of dead people whose death was
unknown to the dying persons but not to the present ones;
(3) visions of dead people whose death was unknown both
to the dying persons and to the present ones; (4) collective
visions shared by both the dying person and the one who
is looking after him or her. In considering the typical
characteristics of these classes and in trying to explain the
facts, both naturalistic and spiritistic hypotheses are dis-
cussed. Finally, the possibility is suggested that sometimes
alien "beings" able to induce psychic experiences are truly
present. - DA
03056. lannuzzo, Giovanni. The fifth parapsychologi-
cal meeting in Bologna. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jul/Sep),
87(3), 271-275.
On May 9-10, 1987, the Parapsychological Study
Center--CSP-held its fifth meeting in Bologna. The author
presents a critical synthesis of the works presented for the
occasion by the various researchers. The most important
was the debate held by the scholars belonging to the two
parapsychological movements: the positivists and the
spiritualists. - DA
03057. Simone, Giorgio di. Jacopo Comin: Evidence on
the "Entity A" case. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jul/Sep), 87(3),
276-281.
In this article, the author relates Jacopo Comin's
opinion about the "Entity A," in particular as concerns all
the data leading us to consider such an entity as most
likely independent from the medium and from people as-
sisting at the s6ance. In one of his letters Comin wrote:
"We are in the presence of a Teacher in the highest sense
of the word, who undertook the burden of an high
spiritual teaching for the few able to understand it." - DA
03058. Ravaldini, Silvio. The Riccardi case: A "drop-
in" communicator. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Oct/Dec), 87(4),
307-319. 2 figs; 7 refs
The author brings to our attention a case of spiritis-
tic identification. In fact, during a s6ance held in 1948 a
drop-in communicator told the sitters he was a priest who
died in Canton, Oihio in 1929. In telling his name the
communicator added he was shot dead by a woman inside
his church. Successively in 1949 and 1950, always as a
drop-in communicator, he confirmed what was previously
said but used different words. Researches made in
America by Dr. Stevenson's assistant proved the com-
municator told the truth, i.e., a priest having the same
name was shot dead in a church in the same year the
communicator told. The article goes on with a detailed
analysis, made by the author, about a possible explanation
of facts besides the spiritistic one: cryptomnesia,
psychometry, and so on. There is the very interesting ap-
pendix signed by Dr. M. Biondi in which the above story
is viewed from a more materialistic parapsychological point
of view. - DTIR.A.W.
Vol. 6, No. 2 December 1988
03059. Garzia, Plerangelo. Survival: Belief or
research? Luce a Ombra, 1987 (Oct/Dec), 87(4), 320-324.
Three hundred years ago, the Italian scientist and
man of letters Francesco Redi (1626-1698) exploded the
traditional doctrine about spontaneous generation. In the
same way, psychic researchers in the 20th .century are en-
gaged in exploding the traditional doctrine of conscience as
a brain chemical product. Psi phenomena, in their complex
whole, show conscience as able to much further extend it-
self in connection with those activities allowed by brain
activity. Furthermore, conscience could be preexistent to
the formation of the biological human organism and may
survive its disintegration.
The survival theme has always been the domain of
faith. For the first time in human history, thanks to
psychic research, the survival theme develops from objec-
tive facts and rational considerations. Even if, historically,
parapsychology can be considered as an "ibridum," form
came out from the meeting of religious need and the
scientific one. In fact, without this hotchpotch of belief
and research, parapsychology would have never been born.
Actually we absolutely need a certain part of faith to
have the possibility of demonstrating survival for sure
without feeling ashamed about it. For mutual admission
happens in every knowledge field. Without faith we can-
not go further-it being impossible to follow the glimpse of
initial purpose. Without continuous, ceaseless, tireless
research, we would already be dead. - DA
03060. Marabini, Enrico. Psi phenomena: Normal or
paranormal? Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Oct/Dec), 87(4), 325-
336. 14 refs; 1 table
By this report, the author confronts a basic theme in
order to obtain a refitting of the whole problem coming
out of the study of psi phenomena, starting from the con-
sideration that psi is an event resulting from an expression
of human behavior and considering people as animated sys-
tems. The author presents a "classifications" conception. He
explains what a psi phenomenon is and gives the basis of
what particular characteristics such that an event can be
considered and classified in this way. Next he discusses the
theme. Firstly, he talks about "normality" through its dif-
ferent meanings: a "fixed rule" and a "constitutive rule."
This last is the only one which offers the possibility of ra-
tionally facing the "normality" argument (and respectively
the "abnormality" one) about certain types of events or
about certain well-defined human behavior situations.
Then he analyzes the word "paranormal" and all the
definitions deriving from it that are used to qualify para-
psychological discipline. Returning to human behavior, the
author points out that to every behavior state there is a
corresponding coherent conscious state. Although these are
different knowledge positions in themselves, every state is
a normal and natural event. Since "psi behavior" is an al-
tered state of consciousness, the information and realistic
contents involved are necessarily normal expressions of that
particular behavior state. Therefore, the uncommonness in
the phenomena does not mean they are not normal or
deviate or paranormal or supernormal. Rationally it can
be asserted that the laws subtending the psi phenomena
must be necessarily different from those orthodox science
considers and applies in studying other types of natural
events. The parapsychologists' work is to identify them.
Otherwise, in order to obtain concrete results, it is neces-
sary to the research to study the problem from a different
point of view. - DA
03061. Simone, Giorgio di. Metaphysical reality: The
spirit "program." Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Oct/Dec), 87(4),
16
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
 Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R0`0040r0`120'00"`
Parapsychology Abstracts International
03055. Costa, Alfonso. About the visions of dying per-
sons and survival. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jul/Sep), 87(3),
260-270. 15 refs
The attention recently addressed to near-death ex-
periences has confined to the background a phenomenon to
which much more attention was paid in the past: that of
visions of dying persons. Reconsidering once again two
books which can be considered as classics of this matter,
the author re-opens a discussion about this specific
phenomenon. He classifies deathbed visions in four classes:
(1) visions of dead people whose death was known to the
dying person; (2) visions of dead people whose death was
unknown to the dying persons but not to the present ones;
(3) visions of dead people whose death was unknown both
to the dying persons and to the present ones; (4) collective
visions shared by both the dying person and the one who
is looking after him or her. In considering the typical
characteristics of these classes and in trying to explain the
facts, both naturalistic and spiritistic hypotheses are dis-
cussed. Finally, the possibility is suggested that sometimes
alien "beings" able to induce psychic experiences are truly
present. - DA
03056. lannuzzo, Giovanni. The fifth parapsychologi-
cal meeting in Bologna. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jul/Sep),
87(3), 271-275.
On May 9-10, 1987, the Parapsychological Study
Center--CSP-held its fifth meeting in Bologna. The author
presents a critical synthesis of the works presented for the
occasion by the various researchers. The most important
was the debate held by the scholars belonging to the two
parapsychological movements: the positivists and the
spiritualists. - DA
03057. Simone, Giorgio di, Jacopo Comin: Evidence on
the "Entity A" case. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Jul/Sep), 87(3),
276-281.
In this article, the author relates Jacopo Comin's
opinion about the "Entity A," in particular as concerns all
the data leading us to consider such an entity as most
likely independent from the medium and from people as-
sisting at the s6ance. In one of his letters Comin wrote:
"We are in the presence of a Teacher in the highest sense
of the word, who undertook the burden of an high
spiritual teaching for the few able to understand it." - DA
03058. Ravaldini, Silvio. The Riccardi case: A "drop-
in" communicator. Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Oct/Dec), 87(4),
307-319. 2 figs; 7 refs
The author brings to our attention a case of spiritis-
tic identification. In fact, during a seance held in 1948 a
drop-in communicator told the sitters he was a priest who
died in Canton, Oihio in 1929. In telling his name the
communicator added he was shot dead by a woman inside
his church. Successively in 1949 and 1950, always as a
drop-in communicator, he confirmed what was previously
said but used different words. Researches made in
America by Dr. Stevenson's assistant proved the com-
municator told the truth, i.e., a priest having the same
name was shot dead in a church in the same year the
communicator told. The article goes on with a detailed
analysis, made by the author, about a possible explanation
of facts besides the spiritistic one: cryptomnesia,
psychometry, and so on. There is the very interesting ap-
pendix signed by Dr. M. Biondi in which the above story
is viewed from a more materialistic parapsychological point
of view. - DT/R.A.W.
03059. Garzia, Pierangelo. Survival: Belief or
research? Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Oct/Dec), 87(4), 320-324.
Three hundred years ago, the Italian scientist and
man of letters Francesco Redi (1626-1698) exploded the
traditional doctrine about spontaneous generation. In the
same way, psychic researchers in the 20th century are en-
gaged in exploding the traditional doctrine of conscience as
a brain chemical product. Psi phenomena, in their complex
whole, show conscience as able to much further extend it-
self in connection with those activities allowed by brain
activity. Furthermore, conscience could be preexistent to
the formation of the biological human organism and may
survive its disintegration.
The survival theme has always been the domain of
faith. For the first time in human history, thanks to
psychic research, the survival theme develops from objec-
tive facts and rational considerations. Even if, historically,
parapsychology can be considered as an "ibridum," form
came out from the meeting of religious need and the
scientific one. In fact, without this hotchpotch of belief
and research, parapsychology would have never been born.
Actually we absolutely need a certain part of faith to
have the possibility of demonstrating survival for sure
without feeling ashamed about it. For mutual admission
happens in every knowledge field. Without faith we can-
not go further-it being impossible to follow the glimpse of
initial purpose. Without continuous, ceaseless, tireless
research, we would already be dead. - DA
03060. Marabini, Enrico. Psi phenomena: Normal or
paranormal?' Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Oct/Dec), 87(4), 325-
336. 14 refs; 1 table
By this report, the author confronts a basic theme in
order to obtain a refitting of the whole problem coming
out of the study of psi phenomena, starting from the con-
sideration that psi is an event resulting from an expression
of human behavior and considering people as aninlated sys-
tems. The author presents a "classifications" conception. He
explains what a psi phenomenon is and gives the basis of
what particular characteristics such that an event can be
considered and classified in this way. Next he discusses the
theme. Firstly, he talks about "normality" through its dif-
ferent meanings: a "fixed rule" and a "constitutive rule:'
This last is the only one which offers the possibility of ra-
tionally facing the "normality" argument (and respectively
the "abnormality" one) about certain types of events or
about certain well-defined human behavior situations.
Then he analyzes the word "paranormal" and all the
definitions deriving from it that are used to qualify para-
psychological discipline. Returning to human behavior, the
author points out that to every behavior state there is a
corresponding coherent conscious state. Although these are
different knowledge positions in themselves, every state is
a normal and natural event. Since "psi behavior" is an al-
tered state of consciousness, the information and realistic
contents involved are necessarily normal expressions of that
particular behavior state. Therefore, the uncommonness in
the phenomena does not mean they are not normal or
deviate or paranormal or supernormal. Rationally it can
be asserted that the laws subtending the psi phenomena
must be necessarily different from those orthodox science
considers and applies in studying other types of natural
events. The parapsychologists' work is to identify them.
Otherwise, in order to obtain concrete results, it is neces-
sary to the research to study the problem from a different
point of view. - DA
03061. Simone, Giorgio di. Metaphysical reality: The
spirit "program." Luce e Ombra, 1987 (Oct/Dcc), 87(4),
16
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
 Approved For Release-20001089.'!
01915. Kornwachs, Klaus. "Parascience" and philosophy
of science. Zeitschrift fe r Para psycho/ogle and Grenz-
gebiete der Psychologie, 1975, 17(2/3), 125-142. 14 refs
Using the concepts that have been developed by the
philosophy and sociology of science, two special cases of
"parascience," namely, parapsychology and the theory of the
Ancient Astronauts, are discussed. The author tries to
analyze more precisely the connection between the or-
ganizations, the behavior of the people involved, and the
levels of knowledge in the related theories. - DA
01916. Mischo, Johannes. Are psychic phenomena when
treated according to quantitative and statistical models
a "roulette' for "supernatural" consequences? Pt. 111: A
critical examination of card sequences. Zeitschrift fur
Parapsychologie and Grenzgebiete der Psychologie,
1975, 17(4), 201-218. 4 refs; 16 tables
In this article, another objection to the quantitative
and statistical model of experimental parapsychology is
discussed. According to this objection it has not been
demonstrated that target sequences in ESP experiments
form stochastic sequences. Copious material from target
sequences achieved in diverse ways (thorough hand shuf-
fling of closed and open decks, random generators ZG/1
and Psi Recorder 70) is analyzed, the result being that
genuine stochastic sequences are produced only by the Psi
Recorder 70. The author is of the opinion that the basic
requirements and conditions for experiments with stochastic
sequences should be examined in each before conclusions
are drawn from results that differ from mean chance
expectation. - DA
01917. Bender, Hans, Ilampel, Rainer, Kury, Helmut,
and Wcndlandt, Susanne. The "Geller-effect" - an in-
vestigation in interviews and questionnaires. Part I.
Zeitschrift fur Parapsychologie and Grenzgebiete der
Psychologie, 1975, 17(4), 219-240. 18 refs; 1 table
In January 1974, Uri Geller demonstrated his
worldwide disputed experiments in "spoon bending" and
re-setting in motion of damaged clocks and watches on
television ("Zweites Dcutsches Fernsehen"). Afterwards, the
daily paper Bild asked readers to keep pieces of cutlery
and defective clocks and watches ready at a given time
when Geller was to concentrate on these objects. The ex-
traordinary public reaction -- a unique example in the
field of social psychology and probably of parapsychology
as well -- became an object of investigation in interviews
and questionnaires. A casual sample, gathered from
equal regional distribution, was selected for 80 interviews
out of 2,550 reports (1,100 addresses from TV in the
Federal Republic of Germany and in Switzerland, and
1,450 letters to the editor of Bild). On the basis of this
material a questionnaire was set up to ascertain, in its
first parts (A and B), the alleged event (the re-setting in
motion of defective clocks and watches and the deforma-
tion of pieces of cutlery) in a differentiated way. In its
third general part C, questions were included as to
opinion and knowledge concerning parapsychology and the
attitude towards the "occult surroundings" (Umfcld), that
is, to UFOs, to life after death, to reincarnation, to astrol-
ogy, etc. as well as opinion on the economical and political
perspectives of the future ("the fear factor"). A personality
questionnaire (the concise Freiburger Person Iichkeits-lnven-
tar (Personality Inventory) = FPI-K) was added. In a pre-
liminary test, reports from 150 persons were collected. In
the main investigations another 850 were obtained. By the
high quota of responses of mailed questionnaires (72% in
the main test), the strong motivation of the people ques-
tioned was demonstrated. The first part of the publication
presents the results of parts A and B of the questionnaire,
completed by examples of cases extracted from' interviews
and letters. They make it appear highly probable that gen-
uine PK phenomena took place. In the main test, 402
persons reported 599 instances of clocks and watches set
into motion again; 151 persons cited 243 deformations of
pieces of cutlery, among them 36 persons pretended that a
piece of cutlery broke. Twenty-four percent of those re-
porting on watches stated that the phenomena happened
spontaneously; for cutlery cases, the same affirmation is
given by 17%. Fifty-six reporters of watch cases and 30
reporters of cutlery cases repeated the experiment; the
quota of success was 79% and 56%, respectively. As to the
data of social state, the Geller sample differed only in re-
spect to age and sex from the general population (show-
ing a majority of persons over 60 years, and of women) --
a fact that may depend on the time of the day when the
Bild-experiment took place. The casually presented
material is interpreted in analogy to the hypothesis that
the fascination which obviously emanated from Geller
caused PK reactions among persons interested in occult
phenomena. The astonishing reaction which appeared in
many countries is one of the symptoms of the present
"wave of occultism." - DA
01918. Betz, Hans D. Experimental investigation of un-
usual metal-bending effects. Zeitschrift ftir Parapsy-
chologie and Grenzgebiete der Psychologie, 1975, 17(4),
241-244.
Experiments are described which show genuineness of
unusual metal-bending effects induced by certain subjects
in an as yet unknown way. The experiments are extremely
simple and can be assessed without ambiguity. Systematic
studies are possible which should enable us to test
whether the phenomena can be understood on the basis of
present scientific knowledge. - DA
01919. Droszdiok, Siegfried. A measuring method for
the investigation of paranormal metal-bending effects.
Zeitschrift fur Parapsychologie and Grenzgebiete der
Psychologie, 1975, 17(4), 245-249. 1 fig
It is suggested that the paranormal bending of metals
should be investigated by means of ultrasonic devices. Ex-
perimental investigations have shown that after applying
an ultrasonic head of about one cm in size to the metal
object it is possible continuously to record flaws in the
material, the pressure of the hands on the object, and the
occurrence of a plastic state in the material. Thus, the
proposed ultrasonic testing is suitable to establish either
fraudulent manipulations or genuine effects. - DA
ITALIAN LANGUAGE
(Editor: Paola Giovetti)
LUCE E OMBRA
01920. Garzia, Pierangelo. The work of time. Luce e
Ombra, 1984 (Jul/Sep), 84(3), 209-213. 5 refs
The author affirms that paranormal phenomena, par-
ticularly those supporting the hypothesis of survival, arc
an important but difficult research field. The exclusion of
these phenomena can mean a great limitation of our glo-
bal knowledge. When will man accept the reality of sur-
vival? In this article the author tries to give an answer to
this intriguing question. - DA
01921. lanntizzo, Giovanni. Toward a paranthropology:
Paranormal phenomena and magic. Luce e Ombra,
1984 (Jul/Sep), 84(3), 214-230. 28 refs
The author analyzes the relationship which seems to
exist between paranormal phenomena and magic, and ex-
presses his opinion that psi phenomena are magical in
structure, and therefore outside a scientific view of the
Approved For Release 2000/08111 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
wo
stu
not
bas
phc
cou
apr
con
019.
mix
Jac(
dea
dee
019,
the
75 1
Con
grea
and
ticle
thor
para
Sus)
was
not
bers
prat
with
The
the
ogra
0192
wor
cal
264.
M.T.
Rorr
phas
Some
acco,
DA/
0192.
Luc(
old.
he si
whet
prob
para
W he
(1899
Refe
tion
steps
exalt
DA
01926
Mass
sary
Para
 Approved For Release 2000/08/11: CIA-RDP96-00792RO0II4Q0120
02460. Luttenberger, Franz. Friedrich Z611ner,
s iritualism, and four-dimensional space. Zeitschrift
far Parapsychologie and Grenzgebiete der Psychologie,
1977, 19(4), 195-214. 19 rcfs
In 1877-1878, the astrophysicist Friedrich Zollner un-
dertook a scientifically motivated investigation of
spiritualistic phenomena with the American medium Henry
Slade. At a visit in Great Britain in 1875 he had met
Crookes and other spiritualists and had become acquainted
with such manifestations. With his experiments he in-
tended to prove a rather speculative theory of a four-
dimensional space which had developed out of his con-
siderations about the impossibility of bringing to congruity
symmetric bodies in our concrete space, an idea which can
be traced back to Kant. Zollner made efforts to design ex-
periments with enduring results which were caused une-
quivocally paranormally-in his terms four-dimensional--
efforts; among others we find the famous knot-test. His
reports contain descriptions of about fifty manifestations.
In his opinion the proper cause of the phenomena were
invisible intelligent four-dimensional entities. Zollner's
theory of space and his interpretations indicate his rather
mechanical view of life, and show--against his intentions-a
strong influence from scientific naturalism. Eventually an
effort is made to outline some pre-conditions for such in-
vestigations at these times by a comparison between Ger-
many and Great Britain. - DA/G.H.
02461. Renninger, Mauritius. An actually existent
fourth dimension of space as a model for the explana-
tion of psychokinetic phenomena? Zeitschrift fur
Parapsychologie and Grenzgebiete der Psychologie, 1977,
19(4), 215-226. 2 figs; 10 refs
By model considerations between spaces of dimensions
differing by unity the author tries to demonstrate that the
hypothesis of an actually existent fourth dimension of
space-as formulated just a hundred years ago by the Ger-
man astrophysicist Friedrich Zollner-is able to bring most
of the psychokinetic phenomena nearer to a physical un-
derstanding than any other initial point. - DA
ITALIAN LANGUAGE
(Editor: Paola Giovetti)
LUCE E OMBRA
02462. Ludwiger, Jilobrand von. Personally verified
apport phenomepa. Luce a Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep), 85(3),
173-180. 11 refs
Account of the physical medium Jons Dave, who was
particularly endowed with the ability to produce apport
phenomena. As with some other mediums, Dave's paranor-
mal capacities developed after an accident during the war:
he was seriously wounded, with the destruction of hypo-
physis. Von Ludwiger relates some very specific and inter-
esting personal experiences with Dave and describes his
clairvoyance capacities. This material is from his still un-
published book. Today Dave does not work as a medium;
he is a painter and healer. - DA
02463. Marabini, Enrico. Man's being between deter-
minism and free-will. Luce e Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep),
85(3), 181-188. 10 refs
Discussion of determinism and free will. Marabini
considers the modern scientific trends of biology, neuroen-
docrinology, and of some currents of academic psychology,
and points out that all these conceptions can describe a
part - and only a part - of human reality. In fact, when
man considers himself as a living being in the matrix of
the universe, he realized the significant and conscious
reality of his existence. Humans understand that both
these views are real, even if in order to be communicated
they need different methods.
In particular states of consciousness, humans can ac-
tivate his symbolic and intuitive functions, expand into ir-
rational (extrarational), realms and enter into realities com-
pletely different from the biophysical and rational world.
A human being is subject to biophysical and biopsy-
chical laws, and in this sense his life is determined. But in
the "horizontal" position where causes and effects are at
the same level, he can catch a glimpse of a "vertical"
dimension. Participating in the harmony of universe, free
from materiality, man can reach the real freedom of spirit.
- DA
02464. Ravaldini, Silvio. On mcdiumship. Luce e
Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep), 85(3), 189-196.
In this article the author points out the circumstances
which, in the field of mediumship make the scientific con-
trol of the medium and his or her phenomena difficult and
sometimes impossible. He. reviews some materialization
phenomena and cases of direct voice in which he was
present, cites the hypothesis of "disintegrated personalities"
and intends to deal on another occasion with this subject,
in order to see if an alternative hypothesis could explain
phenomena of an apparently spiritistic nature. - DA
02465. Morrone, Cobaltina. On the frontier of para-
psychology. Luce e Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep), 85(3), 197-201.
The author identifies "border-parapsychology" with a
particular aspect of parapsychology that deals with
humanity in toto and human destiny, trying to face the
intriguing and age-old problem of survival through the
quantitative and qualitative analysis of the full range of
paranormal phenomena - those that are rationally ex-
plainable by positivistic hypotheses, and those that unfor-
tunately are nearly always ignored, which do not have any
logically and rationally acceptable justification and seem to
support the hypothesis of survival after death. In par-
ticular he points out mediumistic phenomena at a high
level, both physical and intellectual, and recalls some per-
sonal experiences. - DA
02466. lannuzzo, Giovanni. History and the myths of
parapsychology. Luce e Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep), 85(3),
202-219. 37 refs
The author analyzes some problems in the history of
parapsychology, such as the origins of spiritualism, the
foundation of psychical research, and the advancement of
experimental parapsychology. He suggests that many of
the current opinions - expressed by a number of students
- about the history of parapsychology are misrepresenta-
tions. There exists a "mythology" of the history of para-
psychology that must be modified and corrected. There-
fore, he emphasizes the importance of historical researches
in the field of parapsychology. - DA
METAPSICHICA RIVISTA ITALIANA
DI PARAPSICOLOGIA
02467. Assennato, Pericle. Our research (and our
soul). Metapsichica Rivista Italiana di Parapsicologia,
1971 (Jul/Dec), 26(3/4), 101-103.
The author summarizes the principal trends in the
field of parapsychological research. He reminds us that in
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0
 Approved For Release 2000/08/11: CIA-RDP96-00792ROA44~OLl 00n1 n t >. .,g:
Vol. 5, No. 2 December 1987
02460. Luttenberger, Franz. Friedrich Zollner,
iritualism, and four-dimensional space. Zeitschrift
Nr Parapsychologie and Grenzgebiete der Psychologie,
1977, 19(4), 195-214. 19 refs
In 1877-1878, the astrophysicist Friedrich Zollner un-
dertook a scientifically motivated investigation of
spiritualistic phenomena with the American medium Henry
Slade. At a visit in Great Britain in 1875 he had met
Crookes and other spiritualists and had become acquainted
with such manifestations. With his experiments he in-
tended to prove a rather speculative theory of a four-
dimensional space which had developed out of his con-
siderations about the impossibility of bringing to congruity
symmetric bodies in our concrete space, an idea which can
be traced back to Kant. Zollner made efforts to design ex-
periments with enduring results which were caused une-
quivocally paranormally-in his terms four-dimensional--
efforts; among others we find the famous knot-test. His
reports contain descriptions of about fifty manifestations.
In his opinion the proper cause of the phenomena were
invisible intelligent four-dimensional entities. Zollner's
theory of space and his interpretations indicate his rather
mechanical view of life, and show--against his intentions--a
strong influence from scientific naturalism. Eventually an
effort is made to outline some pre-conditions for such in-
vestigations at these times by a comparison between Ger-
many and Great Britain. - DA/G.H.
02461. Renninger, Mauritius. An actually existent
fourth dimension of space as a model for the explana-
tion of psychokinetic phenomena? Zeitschrift fti'r
Parapsychologie and Grenzgebiete der Psychologie, 1977,
19(4), 215-226. 2 figs; 10 refs
By model considerations between spaces of dimensions
differing by unity the author tries to demonstrate that the
hypothesis of an actually existent fourth dimension of
space-as formulated just a hundred years ago by the Ger-
man astrophysicist Friedrich Zollner-is able to bring most
of the psychokinetic phenomena nearer to a physical un-
derstanding than any other initial point. - DA
ITALIAN LANGUAGE
(Editor Paola Giovetti)
LUCE E OMBRA
02462. Ludwiger, Jllobrand von. Personally verified
apport phenomena. Luce e Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep), 85(3),
173-180. 11 refs
Account of the physical medium Jons Dave, who was
particularly endowed with the ability to produce apport
phenomena. As with some other mediums, Dave's paranor-
mal capacities developed after an accident during the war:
he was seriously wounded, with the destruction of hypo-
physis. Von Ludwiger relates some very specific and inter-
esting personal experiences with Dave and describes his
clairvoyance capacities. This material is from his still un-
published book. Today Dave does not work as a medium;
he is a painter and healer. - DA
02463. Marabini, Enrico. Man's being between deter-
minism and free-will. Luce e Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep),
85(3), 181-188. 10 refs
Discussion of determinism and free will. Marabini
considers the modern scientific trends of biology, neuroen-
docrinology, and of some currents of academic psychology,
and points out that all these conceptions can describe a
part -- and only a part - of human reality. In fact, when
man considers himself as a living being in the matrix of
the universe, he realized the significant and conscious
reality of his existence. Humans understand that both
these views are real, even if in order to be communicated
they need different methods.
In particular states of consciousness, humans can ac-
tivate his symbolic and intuitive functions, expand into ir-
rational (extrarational), realms and enter into realities com-
pletely different from the biophysical and rational world.
A human being is subject to biophysical and biopsy-,
chical laws, and in this sense his life is determined. But in
the "horizontal" position where causes and effects are at
the same level, he can catch a glimpse of a "vertical"
dimension. Participating in the harmony of universe, free
from materiality, man can reach the real freedom of spirit.
- DA
02464. Ravaldini, Silvio. On mediumship. Luce e
Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep), 85(3), 189-196.
In this article the author points out the circumstances
which, in the field of mediumship make the scientific con-
trol of the medium and his or her phenomena difficult and
sometimes impossible. He, reviews some materialization
phenomena and cases of direct voice in which he was
present, cites the hypothesis of "disintegrated personalities"
and intends to deal on another occasion with this subject,
in order to see if an alternative hypothesis could explain
phenomena of an apparently spiritistic nature. - DA
02465. Morrone, Cobaltina. On the frontier of para-
psychology. Luce e Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep), 85(3), 197-201.
The author identifies "border-parapsychology" with a
particular aspect of parapsychology that deals with
humanity in toto and human destiny, trying to face the
intriguing and age-old problem of survival through the
quantitative and qualitative analysis of the full range of
paranormal phenomena - those that are rationally ex-
plainable by positivistic hypotheses, and those that unfor-
tunately are nearly always ignored, which do not have any
logically and rationally acceptable justification and seem to
support the hypothesis of survival after death. In par-
ticular he points out mediumistic phenomena at a high
level, both physical and intellectual, and recalls some per-
sonal experiences. - DA
02466. lannuzzo, Giovanni. History and the myths of
parapsychology. Luce e Ombra, 1985 (Jul/Sep), 85(3),
202-219. 37 refs
The author analyzes some problems in the history of
parapsychology, such as the origins of spiritualism, the
foundation of psychical research, and the advancement of
experimental parapsychology. He suggests that many of
the current opinions - expressed by a number of students
- about the history of parapsychology are misrepresenta-
tions. There exists a "mythology" of the history of para-
psychology that must be modified and corrected. There-
fore, he emphasizes the importance of historical researches
in the field of parapsychology. - DA
METAPSICHICA RIVISTA ITALIANA
DI PARAPSICOLOGIA
02467. Assennato, Pericle. Our research (and our
soul). Metapsichica Rivista Italian di Parapsicologia,
1971 (Jul/Dec), 26(3/4), I01-103.
The author summarizes the principal trends in the
field of parapsychological research. He reminds us that in
Approved For Release 2000/08/11 : CIA-RDP96-00792R000400120001-0