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I abandoned the extraterrestrial hypothesis in 1967 when my own field investigations disclosed an astonishing overlap between psychic phenomena and UFOs ... The objects and apparitions do not necessarily originate on another planet and may not even exist as permanent constructions of matter. It is more likely that we see what we want to see and interpret such visions according to our contemporary beliefs. [1]

John Keel#2

BeliefPerceptionReality

About this quote

What does it mean?
Keel argues UFOs may not be physical aliens but reflections of our own beliefs and psychic experiences.
In plain terms
We see what we want to see in the sky based on what we believe.
What can you take from it?
Belief shapes how we interpret strange phenomena.

Where it applies

  • paranormal research
  • psychology of belief
  • ufology

Putting it to work

  • questioning assumptions
  • analyzing perception

Questions to consider

  • Do our beliefs shape what we see?
  • How much is observation vs interpretation?

Another view

It dismisses physical evidence in favor of psychological interpretation.

More from John Keel

  1. This planet is haunted by us; the other occupants just evade boredom by filling our skies and seas with monsters.

    Permalink to quote #1
  2. The Old Testament is a chronicle of horrors, describing an egocentric collection of supernatural beings who were always doing rotten things to gentle souls lik…

    Permalink to quote #3

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