PSI Bladet - 1974 No 2

Magazine Overview

PSI-BLADET, issue 2, year 2, published in May 1974, is the organ for the Norwegian Association for Psychic Study and Information (NORSK FORENING FOR PSYKISK STUDIUM OG INFORMASJON). Its purpose is to inform members about PSI's activities and to present other material of interest. The magazine is published 4-6 times a year and sent automatically to members, who are encouraged to submit content and financial contributions.

Tanker i en Vår-Tid (Thoughts in a Springtime)

This editorial reflects on the growing interest in spiritual and parapsychological matters worldwide, citing discussions on astrology, life after death, and telepathy. It notes the increasing presence of such topics in the Norwegian press, radio, and television, as well as a rise in PSI membership and attendance at lectures. The editorial highlights Uri Geller's demonstrations of psychic abilities as a major catalyst for this development, noting both positive and negative reactions. It suggests that Geller's impact has broadened public horizons, even if it also invites skepticism and mistrust. The piece concludes by emphasizing that these events will foster a greater understanding of the non-material world.

Book Review: "URI" by Andrija Puharich

The magazine announces the release of a book about Uri Geller, which is expected to be met with disbelief. The reviewer refrains from personal opinions but reminds readers not to judge. The book, titled "URI" by Andrija Puharich, is published by W. H. Allen & Co., Ltd. and is not yet available in Norway but can be ordered through Narvesens litteraturtjeneste or a bookstore.

PSI-MEDLEMMER SER (PSI Members See)

UFO Sighting

A two-page spread in the magazine "NÅ" (issue 18, May 4, 1974) details a UFO observation on March 13th, starting around 6:30 PM. The sighting is significant because 12 photos were taken, and the object was observed from three locations simultaneously: Lillestrøm (PSI member), Eidsvoll (PSI member), and Nesbyen in Hallingdal, where the photos were taken. The UFO was also reportedly seen over Tynset, Tronfjell, and Gjøvik. Investigations are ongoing.

UFO Information Exhibition

An exhibition and information stand on UFOs is being held in Lillestrøm from May 17th for 10 days. This event is organized by UFO enthusiasts, including several PSI members, at the Giganten Fritidsklubb.

Film Recommendation

The film "DØDEN ADVARER" (Death Warns), which features parapsychological events as a significant part of its story, is currently showing in Oslo.

Medlemsmøte den 26. februar 1974

The meeting featured a well-attended lecture (approx. 100 people) with an interesting slide presentation. However, the event was marred by an inconveniently small venue, leading to overcrowding and heat, which necessitated an early end to the lecture. The topic was "MENNESKETS HÅNE" (Man's Scorn), focusing on dermatoglyphics (the study of hand markings), presented by Dr. philos. James Holiman. A booklet on the subject was distributed free to attendees. The full text of this booklet is promised for the next issue due to space constraints.

Medlemsmøte den 27. mars 1974

Dr. philos. Ola Raknes lectured on "WILHELM REICH OG ORGON-ENERGIEN" (Wilhelm Reich and Orgone Energy). The lecture was well-received, with a near-full house. Dr. Raknes, who studied under Wilhelm Reich and co-authored a book on him, shared his firsthand knowledge of Reich's work. The lecture covered Reich's background, his studies in medicine, his early involvement in psychology and politics, and his eventual break with Freud. Reich's work on character analysis and the method of analyzing patient resistance were discussed. The lecture also touched upon Reich's experiments with bio-electricity and his discovery of 'orgone energy,' which he believed was a universal life force. The talk concluded with "Reich's Laws for Orgone Energy." The speaker, an 86-year-old Dr. Raknes, was praised for his vital presentation of complex material.

Medlemsmøte den 18. april 1974

Approximately 60 attendees gathered for a lecture on "Ønskekvisten før og nå" (Dowsing Rods Then and Now). However, the scheduled speaker was ill, and Jørgen Bergo was called upon at short notice to speak about "synske mennesker" (psychic people) in Norway. Bergo has researched and collected accounts of clairvoyant individuals in Norway, compiling them into a book. He noted that many people refuse to believe in phenomena beyond sensory perception, quoting Goethe. His book features 17 authentic cases, including aspects of folk medicine practiced by individuals like Marcello Haugen and Vise-Knut. Bergo mentioned that research into these abilities is challenging, with some suggesting a connection to spiritualism or even the Bible. He highlighted common traits among psychics, such as strong religious beliefs and, in some cases, physical ailments, yet they often lived long lives. Bergo discussed the concept of the 'third eye' and the inner eye, suggesting that psychics perceive impressions internally. He also touched upon the difficulties psychic individuals face in being accepted and understood. The president thanked Bergo for his spontaneous and well-handled presentation.

Parapsykologi i Praksis (Parapsychology in Practice) by Sissel Blessing

This section discusses the growing emphasis in recent literature on the latent abilities within all humans and the possibility of developing them through training, drawing parallels with Eastern traditions. It mentions Edgar Cayce and the "Association for Research and Enlightenment" in the USA, which leads study and practice groups. Hugh Lynn Cayce, Edgar Cayce's son, emphasizes the importance of meditation for humanity, noting its side effects and the demanding nature of the practice. The article outlines the benefits of meditation, such as improved relaxation, sleep control, and enhanced energy, leading to abilities like telepathy and clairvoyance.

Book Review: "VENTURE INWARD" by Hugh Lynn Cayce

The book "VENTURE INWARD" by Hugh Lynn Cayce, subtitled "A Quest for Spiritual and Psychological Insight based on the Psychic Discoveries of Edgar Cayce," is published by Harper & Row, Publishers, New York & London.

"DEN FANTASTISKE VITENSKAP" (The Fantastic Science)

This refers to a recent German book by a journalist and a physicist exploring a unified explanation for parapsychological phenomena, potentially linked to the aura surrounding living beings, as described by Rudolf Steiner. The book discusses Kirlian photography and the concept of a "subatomic substance" or aura. It also addresses the theory of the doppelgänger (double person).

"TANKER I SOFAKROKEN" (Thoughts in the Sofa Corner) by Kjell Gulbrandsen

Gulbrandsen argues that the fragmentation of knowledge into specialized fields prevents individuals from grasping the whole picture, leading to a potential downfall. He notes that while material well-being has increased, it drains energy, and the physical human is threatened by pollution. However, he sees a glimmer of hope as technologists and scientists acknowledge past destructive practices and aim to use knowledge constructively. He believes that subconscious currents are surfacing, leading to a more favorable climate for parapsychology. He calls for collective effort in understanding and disseminating this knowledge, citing Grundtvig's verse: "WHAT SUNSHINE IS FOR THE BLACK SOIL, IS TRUE ENLIGHTENMENT FOR THE DULL FRIEND."

The section concludes with a quote from Albert Schweitzer: "I believe in an immortal soul. Science has proven that nothing dissolves into nothingness. Therefore, neither life nor the soul can dissolve into nothingness, and consequently, they are immortal."

Part Two of the Article: "PARAPSYKOLOGI – EN VITENSKAP I SØKELYSET" (Parapsychology – A Science in the Spotlight)

This part of the article delves deeper into psychotronics, linking it to radiesthesia and the use of dowsing rods and pendulums, particularly in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union. It mentions the exploration of psycho-magnetic healing forms and the Soviet practice of researching occult literature. The article highlights auraforschung (aura research) and Kirlian photography as areas where occult phenomena are being investigated scientifically. It also discusses "hudsyn" (skin vision), the relationship between human thoughts and plants, and psychokinesis, citing experiments with Nina Kulagina.

The article attributes the increasing international and interdisciplinary collaboration in psychotronic research to a changing political climate (easing of East-West tensions) and a general need within parapsychology for exchanging concrete experiences and developing a unified explanation for phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of drawing on unconventional viewpoints from fields like physics, biology, and astronomy.

Physics and Parapsychology

The article notes that in physics, old atomic models have dissolved, and current theories struggle to explain new discoveries like the neutrino. It quotes Robert Oppenheimer and Werner Heisenberg on the changing nature of atoms and the emergence of concepts like anti-time and anti-matter. Professor Henry Margenau of Yale University suggests the existence of non-material areas in the universe, drawing parallels between physicists' "psi-fields" and parapsychologists' "psi-fields." Astronomer Firsoff posits a spiritual cosmic universe governed by unknown laws that parapsychology confirms. Physicists are exploring theories of "mind particles" and the "Universal Mind."

The article concludes that the boundaries between sciences are blurring, with physicists and parapsychologists collaborating to find a common explanatory framework. It suggests that parapsychological research has gained a new profile and unexpected respect, becoming a serious and independent discipline integrated with various sciences.

Other Areas of Parapsychology

The article then turns to other areas of parapsychology, noting their increased attention in the late 1960s and 1970s. It references a 1969 conference at the University of Los Angeles on "A New View on ESP," which included participants from the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, India, and other countries. Topics covered included astral projection, with Charles Tart emphasizing the need for continued research. Dr. Stanley Krippner is also mentioned.

Book Review: "DIE PHANTASTISCHE WISSENSCHAFT" (The Fantastic Science) by Peter Andreas + Caspar Kilian

This book is described as interesting and potentially groundbreaking, offering a wealth of connections to other sciences and phenomena. The authors are Peter Andreas and Caspar Kilian, and the book is published by Econ Verlag, Düsseldorf/Wien, 1973.

"ROMSKIP LANDET I ISRAEL FOR 2600 ÅR SIDEN" (Spaceship Landed in Israel 2600 Years Ago)

This section discusses the analysis by NASA scientist Josef Blumrich of the Book of Ezekiel. Blumrich interprets Ezekiel's description as a detailed account of a spacecraft with four humanoid beings landing in Israel 2600 years ago. He suggests the spacecraft was likely nuclear-powered. His analysis, prompted by Erich von Däniken's "Chariots of the Gods," led him to conclude that Ezekiel witnessed a fully functional spaceship and that extraterrestrial visits continue today.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the exploration of parapsychological phenomena, psychic abilities, and UFOs. It highlights scientific research in these areas, often drawing from both Western and Eastern perspectives. There is a clear editorial stance favoring the investigation of the unexplained and a belief in the expansion of human consciousness beyond material limitations. The publication encourages member participation and aims to foster a deeper understanding of spiritual and psychic realms. The recurring theme is the integration of these seemingly fringe topics into a broader scientific and philosophical understanding of reality.

Title: PSI-BLADET
Issue: 12
Volume: 1
Year: 1974

This issue of PSI-BLADET explores the expanding frontiers of parapsychology and spiritual healing, highlighting a growing acceptance within scientific and public spheres. The magazine features discussions on various phenomena and research initiatives, suggesting a paradigm shift in understanding consciousness and the human potential.

Parapsychology and Spiritual Healing

The issue begins by detailing a significant meeting of scientists in New York, which marked a shift towards taking parapsychology more seriously. Professor Roa from Andhra University presented on training students in yoga to develop paranormal abilities. Dr. Bernad Grad discussed successful experiments with spiritual healers who achieved results without direct physical contact, noting that such methods had previously been dismissed by dogmatic scientists.

The article highlights the emergence of "psychic surgeons" like Tony Agpaoa in the Philippines and Josè Arigo in Brazil, who perform operations with their bare hands. Teams of doctors and parapsychologists have observed these practitioners. In England, the 80-year-old Harry Edwards and his team are reported to conduct contact and distance healing, with a high success rate, even helping patients who had not responded to conventional medical treatment. Despite this, medical associations remain hesitant to support large-scale investigations into spiritual healing, often citing self-suggestion as a counter-argument. However, Edwards' success with animals and the fact that even doctors refer patients to him suggest otherwise.

A significant development mentioned is the formation of "The National Association of Spiritual Healers" in England, with nearly 3000 full-time healers, and plans for a global organization.

The Link Between Parapsychology and Spiritualism

The magazine explores the evolving relationship between parapsychology and spiritualism. It notes that spiritualists and parapsychologists are increasingly collaborating, recognizing that they can enrich each other's work. Parapsychologists acknowledge the vast experiential material and the availability of mediums within spiritualism. Spiritualists, in turn, see parapsychology as a scientific means to validate their beliefs to the public.

A key question raised is whether parapsychology is moving towards proving personal survival after death and direct contact with a "beyond." The article suggests that this is becoming a central focus.

Transcendental Voices and Scientific Inquiry

The phenomenon of "transcendental voices" (eng. voice phenomena) is presented as a major source of controversy. The work of Fredrich Jürgenson and his book "Røster fra rymden" (Voices from Space) is discussed, where he claimed to have recorded voices not originating from any known source. Professor Bender of Freiburg University found strong evidence for the paranormal origin of these voices. Physicist and engineer Peter Hale, an expert in radio technology, stated he could no longer explain these phenomena with normal physical concepts. Other leading physicists and radio experts reached similar conclusions, leading many to believe these were voices from the deceased. Even religious figures, including Anglican and Catholic bishops, expressed openness to investigating this further.

Despite the growing interest, caution is advised regarding the interpretation of this material, as multiple sources for these voices might exist. Nevertheless, this phenomenon has brought parapsychology further into the spotlight.

Space Exploration and Parapsychology

The magazine connects the growing interest in parapsychology to recent advancements in space exploration. The moon landing and the Skylab space station are cited as catalysts. A parapsychological research film titled "Skylab" was presented at a psychotronic conference. The article suggests that parapsychology is no longer confined to Earth but is reaching out into outer space.

Astronaut Edgar Mitchell of Apollo 14 is highlighted for conducting a telepathic experiment with mediums on Earth. The Soviet Union is also reported to be discussing telepathic transmissions from Russian astronauts. The concept of distance playing a role in telepathy is questioned, citing successful thought transmissions over thousands of kilometers.

The EDMA-Corporation and Future Directions

In the USA, The EDMA-Corporation (The Edgar D. Mitchell Associates Corporation) was formed, led by Edgar Mitchell. This organization comprises 75 scientists, including physicists, psychiatrists, and space experts, as well as Dr. Wernher von Braun. Their goal is to promote the study of telepathy and parapsychology, both in space research and other areas.

Mitchell and his colleagues speak of "teobiology," a new synthetic science combining natural sciences and religious research to find common ground, and "noetics," which explores different states of consciousness and the potential for higher development. They believe that the perspective gained from viewing Earth from space has profoundly impacted their lives and broadened their understanding of humanity's place in the universe.

Parapsychology's Breakthrough

The article asserts that parapsychology has achieved a significant breakthrough, evidenced by the participation of astronauts and scientists in a unified parapsychological organization in 1964, and the attendance of various scientific disciplines at a major international conference in 1973, including representatives from Eastern European countries and the "third world."

Til Ettertanke (Food for Thought)

This section briefly touches upon current political events in May 1974, including potential elections in Sweden, government crises in Denmark and Denmark, Willy Brandt's resignation in West Germany, the presidential election in France, a coup in Portugal, and England's economic struggles. It also mentions the ongoing Watergate affair in the USA and the future of Nixon's presidency.

The author then reflects on the current era as a time of great change and the dawn of a "NEW AGE." The Earth is described as a "blood-stained planet" compared to a "house of ink" with old ink being stirred by a spring of clear running water. This "clear water" is interpreted as new cosmic rays from outside, increasing in intensity, which are affecting us and our surroundings. The message is to be aware and recognize the signs of the times.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the growing legitimacy and scientific investigation of parapsychology and spiritual healing, the exploration of consciousness and the afterlife, and the potential impact of space exploration on human understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness and encouragement towards these fields, viewing them as crucial for humanity's future development and understanding of the universe. There is a clear emphasis on the scientific validation of phenomena previously dismissed and a belief in a coming "new age" driven by new cosmic influences and expanded consciousness.