Free Republic

In American Cosmic, D.W. Pasulka, a professor of religious studies at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, draws on a six-year ethnographic study and the work of Carl Jung (Flying Saucers) and Jacques Vallee (Passport to Magonia and The Invisible College) to explain the widespread belief in aliens. Pasulka identifies three aspects of UFO inquiry: physical evidence (crash sites and artifacts); testimonials made by experiencers; and the persistence of belief whether or not there is verifiable evidence to support it. Pasulka also challenges the view that UFO believers are uneducated, fringe members of society. Some very well-regarded scientists, she indicates,...

The History Channel’s fictional drama Six provides a darker, more nuanced look into the personal and professional lives of SEAL Team Six operators. Although the show clearly displays the SEALs expertly using weapons in the field, there seems to be one place the show won’t accept them: in the home. In the dangerous world the show paints for us, the fact that they don’t want homeowners armed is even scarier. After former SEAL Team leader Rip was murdered by a terrorist on American soil in the season 2 premiere, Jackie (Nadine Velazquez) fears that her their family could be targeted...

Anyone want to discuss this season's Top Shot? It just ended on Tuesday. I picked the winner from the first time I saw him and heard his background. Until the finale, I perceived the contestant George to be a total bleep, but after the finale was over, I changed my opinion somewhat,based on his odd behavior in the finale. I thought it was very interesting the bond he had with the winner of the competition. I missed a few episodes, so could someone explain why they all picked on Jaime so much? I thought he seemed like a stand up...