The Intentional Unseen: Elusiveness as a Signature of UAP Phenomena
The mystique surrounding Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) has long fascinated and perplexed both the scientific community and the general public. Dr. Méheust’s presentation offers a nuanced exploration of this phenomenon through the concept of “elusiveness,” advocating for a paradigm shift from traditional scientific methodologies to a more inclusive, phenomenological approach. This shift is necessitated by the physicalist approach’s inability to fully encapsulate the complex, often surreal, nature of close encounters and abductions.
By grounding research in the immediate experiences and perceptions of the phenomenon, unencumbered by preconceived notions of its nature, Méheust’s proposed phenomenological method acknowledges the interplay between the observer, the observed, and the context of the encounter. Although this approach is challenging due to the subjective and variable nature of human experience, it offers a more holistic understanding of UAP. Moreover, this method’s emphasis on observation, the five senses, reasoning, and intuition provides a structured framework for navigating the complexities of UAP experiences.
At the core of Méheust’s presentation lies the concept of elusiveness, characterized by the paradoxical coupling of ostentation and evasion. This intrinsic property of UAP suggests a form of intentionality or consciousness at play, distinguishing it from mere human misperception or investigative limitations. The nuanced distinction between “weak” and “strong” elusiveness underscores the phenomenon’s complexity, inviting further exploration into the nature of UAP’s manifestation and withdrawal. The implication that UAP operates on a boundary between the physical and the psychic challenges reductionist explanations, underscoring the need for a multidisciplinary approach.
The paradox of studying a phenomenon designed to evade observation is inherent to UAP research. Rather than viewing this as an insurmountable obstacle, acknowledging and working within this paradox may offer a way forward. Meta-analytical techniques, for instance, could be employed to test the hypothesis of intentional manifestation, providing a foothold for investigation. Furthermore, exploring scenarios where this restraint is lifted can offer insights into the forms UAP manifestations cannot take, such as the fleeting nature of breakdown scenarios.
Dr. Méheust’s work on elusiveness in UAP phenomena highlights the necessity of refining our methodologies to accommodate the study of the unexplained. By embracing the complexity and subjective nature of UAP experiences, researchers may uncover new insights into the intentional, possibly psyche-related, essence of these phenomena. This not only deepens our understanding of the unknown but also contributes to the broader development of interdisciplinary research, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and perception.
Dr. Bertrand Méheust: The Problem of Elusiveness (The Society For UAP Studies, Annual Summer Conference 2024, Varieties and Trajectories of Contemporary UAP Studies, August 2024)
Thursday, February 6, 2025