Response by Roderic Gorney

Objection that my brief paper1 is unconvincing due to absence of detailed data must be accepted. I thought its modest intent was indicated in advance by title and tone. The flaw, only partially attributable to abridgment, is partially repaired below. But the ideas remain largely unproved.

What then justifies publication? Disregarding whatever weight alleged “literary appeal” or “charm” may carry, it has been suggested that the essence of science is art. First comes generation of ideas out of fragmentary experience. Later comes proof. The importance of testing hypotheses is not demeaned by designating that process the secondary aspect of science.

To my knowledge, this paper remains the only attempt to synthesize into testable hypotheses remarkable physiological and psychological changes associated with an activity said to have engrossed millions and killed thousands. Circumstances deny me opportunity to engage in rigorous verification. Others may or may not find the ideas useful or worthy of investigation.

Dr. Goldberger grasps my intent and offers excellent material on related experiences. Dr. West calls attention to the variable presence in man of the “diving reflex,” which previously I thought confined to subhuman species. It offers alternative explanation of physiological changes I had attributed to increased pressures. As to personality differences, I've found that reflective, introspective

people more readily become diving devotees, whereas more outgoing assertive, nonpsychologically-minded counterphobes are as likely to withdraw as persevere.

Mr. Howard cannot recall one novice diver who exhibited euphoria during first scuba experience. I am at a loss to reconcile the discrepancy between his report and those of many certified instructors and divers who assured me they had seen numerous such reactions and considered them significant hazards to beginne