PSI Bladet - 1977 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: PSI-BLADET
Issue: No. 1, 4th Year
Date: February 1977
Publisher: Norsk Forening for Psykisk Studium og Informasjon (PSI)
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of PSI-Bladet, the organ for the Norwegian Society for Psychic Study and Information, marks the 5th anniversary of the organization. The cover features a striking, somewhat somber illustration of many faces, suggesting a collective human experience or consciousness.

Contents Overview

The table of contents reveals a diverse range of topics, including poetry, organizational news, legends, philosophical discussions, UFO reports, astrology, and articles on the nature of time and consciousness.

JUBILEUM - 72 25.jan.-77

This section commemorates PSI's fifth anniversary. Knut Aasheim, the society's first president and initial editor of PSI-Bladet, offers reflections. He notes that the organization's roots go back about 15 years to informal gatherings of UFO enthusiasts in the Oslo area. These interests broadened beyond UFOs to include telepathy, reincarnation, and other esoteric subjects. The need for a formal organization to facilitate discussion and study of these diverse fields led to the establishment of PSI on January 25, 1972, with approximately 30 people present at the founding meeting. Aasheim highlights the society's activities, including lectures by notable figures like Anna Elisabeth Westerlund and Erich von Däniken, and its collaboration with the Norwegian Parapsychological Society. PSI has organized 40 public lectures reaching about 3000 attendees. The article concludes with a call for greater understanding of life's true nature.

EN LITEN LEGENDE (A Small Legend)

Authored by Lars Dannevig, this piece is presented as a legend told by a grandfather to his granddaughter. It offers a creation myth where 'feathers' from heaven fell to Earth and became humans. Initially, humans remembered their divine origin but gradually forgot it as they became engrossed in the material world. The legend suggests that humanity's current state of forgetting God is a phase, and a longing for the divine is returning. The story explains that humans were cast out of heaven not as punishment, but as a way to learn the difference between good and evil through experience, ultimately leading them to seek God again.

J. G. BENNETT

This section features two parts: an introduction to John Godolphin Bennett and an article by Sophie Poulsson discussing his philosophy.

Introduction to J.G. Bennett:
Bennett (1897-1974) is described as an English philosopher, mathematician, and natural scientist, often associated with P.D. Ouspensky. He is presented as a proponent of a mystical and scientific worldview, particularly his concept of the 'five-dimensional universe,' with eternity as the fifth dimension. His key writings mentioned are "The Crisis in Human Affairs" and "The Dramatic Univers."

Article by Sophie Poulsson:
Poulsson's article explores Bennett's ideas on human development and consciousness. She emphasizes that human life's purpose is evolution, not just becoming better people, but more complete human beings. She highlights that much of our inner life remains unconscious, like an iceberg, and that expanding this consciousness is crucial. Bennett, like Ouspensky, was a student of Gurdjieff. Poulsson notes that Bennett's work is not widely known in Norway. She draws heavily from "The Crisis in Human Affairs," explaining Bennett's view that around 500 BCE, humanity shifted from an era of god-kings to one where individual value was recognized (through figures like Lao Tzu, Confucius, etc.). However, this led to a dualism between spirit and matter, and a conflict between mechanical determinism and free will. Bennett termed our era 'megalantropic,' believing humans overestimate their own importance, falsely assuming a permanent, conscious 'I,' free will, and effective agency. Poulsson challenges these assumptions, particularly the notion of free will. She discusses Bennett's idea that life unfolds on different levels of consciousness, with lower levels being more deterministic and higher levels offering greater freedom. He distinguishes between the 'ego-feeling' (a label for psychological processes) and the 'Self,' which is deeper and rarely contacted. Bennett's diagram illustrates the relationship between 'Essence' (eternal), 'Soul' (giving life), 'Personality' (learned and experienced), 'Body' (physical form), 'Time,' and 'Eternity.'

Time and Eternity

This section delves into Bennett's perspective on time and eternity, drawing from modern physics (relativity and quantum mechanics) which challenge absolute notions of time, space, and causality. Bennett suggests that while physical science often points towards dissolution and decay, potential energy and the striving of living organisms towards a goal offer a counterpoint. He posits that our memory, which can recall the past and combine experiences, operates outside of linear time, suggesting an element of eternity. Eternity, for Bennett, is not a temporal extension but an all-encompassing presence. He references Louis de Broglie's concept of the 5th dimension and Kierkegaard's "The Concept of Anxiety," finding resonance with his own ideas. The article distinguishes between 'psycho-static' (unchanging essence) and 'psyko-kinetic' (transformable essence) views of humanity. It also differentiates between pragmatic knowledge (answering 'what' and 'how') and knowledge of values (answering 'why' and 'where to'), emphasizing the latter for setting goals in eternity.

Bennett's view of life is described as a cosmic drama where life ascends the ladder of eternity from determinism to freedom. Consciousness is seen as the unifying principle in the universe. He states that consciousness arises from striving, suffering, and the will to choose, and that we can create new consciousness through our own efforts towards purity and perfection, thereby fulfilling our destiny as beings created in God's image.

Poetry

Two poems are included: "Klare Stjærne send et Vink" (Clear Star Send a Wink) by Henrik Ibsen, and "'Intonasjon'" by Peter R. Holm.

• "Klare Stjærne send et Vink" is a lyrical poem expressing a longing for divine guidance and understanding, questioning whether earthly existence can lead to transcendence.
• "'Intonasjon'" is a more abstract poem, using imagery of nature (sea, stones) and light to convey a sense of deep connection and inner transformation, moving towards a 'purer light.'

Other Sections

• UFO-NYTT (UFO News): Mentions "UFO-belge" (UFO-egg/oval) and "Eksplosjon" (Explosion), suggesting reports or discussions of UFO sightings.
• ASTROLOGI (Astrology): Lists "Årsmøte" (Annual Meeting), "Kurs" (Course), "Hustabell for nordpolar sone" (House table for the north polar zone), "Horoskop-blanketter" (Horoscope forms), "Germaine Soleil," "Arbeidsoppgave" (Assignment), and "MERKUR-SYKLUSEN" (Mercury Cycle), indicating content related to astrological studies and practices.
• NYTT FRA "THEMIS" (News from "THEMIS"): A brief mention of news from an entity or publication called "THEMIS."
• PERM "The Unfinished Portrait": Suggests an article or review related to "The Unfinished Portrait."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around spiritual development, the search for meaning beyond materialism, the nature of consciousness, and the exploration of phenomena like UFOs and astrology. The editorial stance, as evidenced by the content and the society's stated purpose, is one of open inquiry into psychic and spiritual subjects, aiming to foster understanding and personal growth. There is a clear emphasis on the idea that humanity is undergoing a spiritual evolution, moving away from excessive materialism towards a greater awareness of the inner and eternal dimensions of existence.

This issue of JORDSTRÅLING (Earth Radiation) from 1976, identified as issue number 1, delves into phenomena related to earth radiation, psychic abilities, and astrology. The magazine features articles and interviews exploring these topics, with a focus on potential health impacts and paranormal experiences.

Earth Radiation and Health

The lead article, introduced as a follow-up to a previous piece on "Od-kraften" and radiation sensitivity, features Rolf Høstmark, a member, naturopath, and geobiologist. Høstmark discusses "jordstråling," particularly gamma rays, which he states are concentrated in specific patterns and intensified over water veins. He notes that materials in the earth's crust radiate, and the intersection points of these "radiation sheets" are particularly intense. Høstmark suggests that our ancestors had a greater sensitivity to these harmful areas, while modern humans have lost much of their intuition. He posits that this radiation can drain energy and disrupt the body's electro-biological balance, potentially leading to a range of ailments from muscle stiffness and rheumatism to impotence and cancer. He cites Dr. E. Hartmann, who claims cancer is unthinkable without the stress from these concentrated gamma ray intersections, referencing Hartmann's book "Krankheit als Standortproblem" (Illness as a Location Problem).

Høskmark questions the effectiveness of shielding methods like lead plates, coils, or plastic, suggesting that lead plates can become "charged" and emit secondary radiation. He also touches upon the idea that building homes over "water veins" places individuals in a "line of fire." He concludes that the natural solution is to move away from these points, at least with one's bed.

Psychic Abilities: Lodvar Kårstad

The issue features an interview with Lodvar Kårstad, a 70-year-old psychic from Lomen in Vestre Slidre, Norway, described as the "synske valdresmannen" (psychic man from Valdres). Kårstad has gained notoriety for finding lost sheep and other domestic animals, with numerous newspaper clippings attesting to his success. He states that he prioritizes finding animals because they suffer greatly, especially when trapped by snow. While he has also found lost items like rings and wallets, he prefers not to handle such requests, as they often involve theft.

Kårstad also reveals that he keeps his visions of the future private, whether for individuals or more generally. The article notes that Kårstad passed a test where he accurately described personal details about the interviewer. Beyond his psychic abilities, Kårstad is also recognized as a "vannfinner" (water finder), able to "see" underground water veins. The article contrasts the successes of individuals like Kårstad with the limitations of science, suggesting that people often turn to psychics as a last resort when science fails.

UFOs and the Soviet Union

This section presents press clippings regarding UFO interests in the Soviet Union. Knut Aasheim, the editor of the UFO pages, is taking a break this issue. The clippings report on a recent wave of UFO sightings in the Soviet Union, despite official denials. Underground newspapers are noted to be discussing the increased frequency of observations. An article from "Komsomsoskaya Pravda" (the Young Communist League's organ) dismisses the UFO wave as a "Western-inspired flirtation with superstition and religious impulses, directly or indirectly directed by the Pentagon." Despite these official statements, the article suggests that the Soviet Union does not dismiss the UFO phenomenon in practice.

Another report details a prominent Soviet scientist's statement that the mysterious explosion in mid-Siberia in 1908, known as the Tunguska event, might have been caused by an atom-powered spacecraft from another planet. The explosion was powerful enough to be heard 1,200 kilometers away and devastated vegetation over a wide area. Researchers estimate its strength to be between 20 and 40 million tons of TNT. The theory of an alien spacecraft was first proposed by a Soviet science fiction author after the war, and researcher Alexej Zolotov has studied the phenomenon, concluding that it could have been a nuclear explosion.

Astrology

The magazine includes several astrological features:

• ZODIAK Annual Meeting: An announcement for the annual meeting of "ZODIAK" at the Deichmanske Library in Oslo on March 1, 1977, at 7:00 PM. Members are urged to attend.
• Astrology Course: A new beginner's course in astrology is set to start at Deichman in Oslo on March 8, 1977, at 6:15 PM, running for 10 weeks and led by Unni Hoyle. Registration details are provided.
• North Polar Zone House Table: A booklet titled "NORDPOLARE ASZENDENTEN 67° - 75°" is available for purchase, intended for astrology students studying areas north of the Arctic Circle.
• Horoscope Blankets: Forms for horoscopes are available for purchase at bookstores in Oslo and from Rigmor Wig.
• Merkur Cycle Analysis: Svein-Erik Engebretsen provides an in-depth analysis of the Merkur cycle from a heliocentric perspective. He explains that Mercury's orbit is highly eccentric and that its conjunctions with the Sun are crucial. He distinguishes between inferior (when Earth is in conjunction with Mercury) and superior (when Earth is in opposition to Mercury) conjunctions. The inferior conjunction, where Mercury is between the Sun and Earth, is likened to a new moon and signifies the beginning of a mental cycle, transforming solar energy into a usable form for mental creativity. This phase is associated with the "Prometheus Merkur," characterized by instinct, independence, and a forward-looking nature. The superior conjunction, or "Epimetheus Merkur," occurs when Mercury is after the Sun, and is associated with a more reflective, objective, and philosophical approach. Engebretsen highlights the dualistic nature of Mercury's influence, representing both the progressive (Prometheus) and conservative (Epimetheus) aspects of the human psyche. He emphasizes that Mercury is fundamentally a Sun-planet, linking the mental mind to the spirit. The article concludes by stating that 1977 is astrologically a "Merkur Year."
• Presidential Horoscopes: An assignment for astrologers to interpret the horoscopes of former US President Gerald Ford and current President Jimmy Carter, with specific birth details and times provided.

Germaine Soleil's Predictions

An interview with French astrologer Germaine Soleil, previously featured in "Newsweek," discusses her predictions for 1977. She anticipates that 1977 will not be a catastrophic year, with potential for positive developments, particularly in the energy sector, where new forms of energy are expected to emerge, with the USA leading research. She predicts increased understanding between superpowers and advancements in weaponry. However, she foresees political and social unrest in France, questioning President Valery Giscard d'Estaing's ability to complete his term. She also notes favorable signs for Michel Jobert and Michel Rocard, while predicting a difficult year for Indira Gandhi and unrest in the Soviet Union for Brezhnev. Soleil also anticipates that the US will increase its trade with China and paradoxically assist in Vietnam's reconstruction. She foresees continued unrest in the Middle East, Rhodesia, and South Africa, with white populations in the latter two countries likely migrating to Europe. Soleil concludes by referencing the transition from the Age of Pisces to the Age of Aquarius, emphasizing a growing understanding of quality of life and care for the poor and weak.

Themis Publishing House Announcement

Themis Forlag announces that it will gradually cease its mail-order book business in 1977 due to the owner's limited time, as more focus will be placed on natural medicine. They express regret to their customers across Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. They mention a strong demand for their products, spread by word-of-mouth. The January list will focus on homeopathy enthusiasts but will include other items. The announcement also includes a list of books for sale at reduced prices from Nihil Press, covering topics like the hollow earth, Atlantis, and occultism, as well as a comprehensive encyclopedia of medical astrology and homeopathy.

The Unfinished Portrait

A short, poetic piece titled "The Unfinished Portrait" reflects on self-identity and the continuous process of self-creation through daily experiences and responses. It suggests that moods and emotions add color to this self-portrait, which can either be proud or clouded by regret. The piece emphasizes that we paint ourselves from within, motivated by life's demands, and can hope for greater artistry in the future.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unseen and the unexplained, including earth radiation, psychic phenomena, UFOs, and astrology. There's a consistent undercurrent of questioning established scientific paradigms and highlighting the limitations of conventional knowledge when faced with certain phenomena. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in alternative explanations and esoteric subjects. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into these areas, presenting various perspectives and anecdotal evidence, while also acknowledging the potential health implications of phenomena like earth radiation. The inclusion of book sales and event announcements suggests an aim to foster a community around these interests.