A Conversation with Jacques Vallée by Jerome Clark

This document is a transcript of an interview between Jerome Clark and scientist Jacques Vallée, published in the 1980 proceedings of the First International UFO Congress (held in Chicago, 1977). Vallée discusses his transition from a professional astronomer tracking satellites to a researcher of the UFO phenomenon. He expresses skepticism toward the 'extraterrestrial hypothesis,' arguing instead that UFOs may function as a 'control system' that influences human consciousness and social behavior. Vallée emphasizes that the phenomenon is complex, often involving physical traces, electromagnetic effects, and psychological impacts on witnesses. He criticizes the scientific establishment for its hostility toward the subject, which he attributes to human nature and fear of ridicule. Vallée advocates for a more rigorous, hands-on approach to investigation, suggesting that researchers should move beyond simple data collection and attempt to understand the 'modus operandi' of the phenomenon. He warns of the dangers of hypnosis in investigations and stresses the importance of symbolic content in abduction reports. Throughout the conversation, Vallée maintains that the phenomenon is not merely a technological mystery but a social and psychological one that requires a multidisciplinary approach to decode.