PSI Bladet - 1978 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: PSI-BLADET
Issue: No. 1
Volume: 5. Årgang
Date: April 1978
Publisher: NORSK FORENING FOR PSYKISK STUDIUM OG INFORMASJON (Norwegian Society for Psychic Study and Information)
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of PSI-BLADET, the organ for the Norwegian Society for Psychic Study and Information, is heavily centered around the recently released film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" (Nærkontakt av tredje grad). The cover features a striking image of a road leading towards a bright horizon under a starry sky, evoking themes of journey and the unknown.

Editorial and Contents

The issue opens with an editorial titled "Erindringens Natfiol" (Night Violet of Remembrance), which uses poetic language to reflect on the transition from darkness to light, resignation to hope, and the human capacity for growth, particularly in spring. It encourages readers to embrace the light and become active participants in the wonders around them.

The table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles, many of which are written by Knut Aasheim, focusing on the film "Nærkontakt" from various angles. Other articles explore topics such as "Ouspensky: The Fourth Way," "Spiritualists," and "Science at the Borderland."

Articles on "Close Encounters of the Third Kind"

"Nærkontakt - En Profetisk Film?" (Close Encounters - A Prophetic Film?)

This article discusses the significant impact of Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," noting its widespread attention in Norway and Europe, and its particular appeal to younger generations and science fiction enthusiasts. It suggests the film will fundamentally alter people's attitudes towards the UFO phenomenon, stating, "Nothing will be quite the same!" The article also briefly mentions "Star Wars" as a precursor to a wave of science fiction films, but emphasizes that "Nærkontakt" is more realistic and deals with humanity's first encounter with beings from another world.

• Key figures associated with the film are highlighted:
• Steven Spielberg: The director, who was reportedly inspired by UFOs during the filming of "Jaws" and had a childhood interest in UFOs.
• Richard Dreyfuss: The lead actor, who plays an electrician. He had no personal UFO sightings but believes in extraterrestrial life and the possibility of contact.
• Francois Truffaut: The French director who plays the scientist leading the contact project. He expresses a view that the 21st century will bring significant change and that humanity's current behavior is self-destructive, seeing these films as a way to combat this.

Douglas Trumbull, the special effects artist, is credited with creating the film's "fantastic technical masterpiece." His work on "2001: A Space Odyssey" is mentioned, and he believes "Nærkontakt" will make the UFO situation "completely believable."

J. Allen Hynek, a leading UFO expert, served as the technical consultant. He advised basing the film's events on real UFO reports, noting that audiences leaving "Nærkontakt" would feel the events could happen to them, unlike with "2001" or "Star Wars." Hynek, who was once a skeptic, stopped dismissing UFO reports about 10 years prior due to the sheer volume and consistency of reports from reliable witnesses worldwide. He hopes the film will reduce the stigma associated with reporting UFOs. The article also mentions NASA's formation of a committee to study UFO reports, following a request from the White House.

"Nærkontakt - Dirigert fra Rommet?" (Close Encounters - Directed from Space?)

This article delves into the extraordinary events that allegedly occurred during the filming of "Nærkontakt." It suggests a "strange enchantment" fell over the cast and crew, leading to a profound spiritual experience and an atmosphere of brotherhood and cooperation. Several individuals, including John Veitch (VP of Production at Columbia Pictures) and Father Michael Dyer, reported feeling a divine presence and guidance during the production. The article recounts an incident where director Spielberg and his team experienced strange phenomena at their hotel in Jefferson, Texas, feeling a presence that made them leave quickly.

It is suggested that the film's themes and the nature of the production attracted unusual occurrences. For instance, a 50-meter tent used for filming was repeatedly damaged by storms, leading some to believe that external forces were influencing the filming. Unusual cloud formations resembling those in the film were also observed. The article quotes Veitch suggesting that the film might have attracted UFOs. Many involved in the production reported life-changing experiences, with a newfound perspective on humanity's place in the universe and the potential for superior intelligence elsewhere.

"Er Filmen en Generalprøve?" (Is the Film a Dress Rehearsal?)

This piece posits that "Nærkontakt" is more than just a film; it's a potential "dress rehearsal" for a future event. It highlights the increasing public interest in UFOs and the possibility of public landings or close encounters. The article suggests that the film's idea and production were inspired, if not directed, by extraterrestrials to prepare humanity for a future event that could shock many. It lists several events from 1977 that indicate a build-up of attention towards UFOs, including the establishment of a French research group, President Jimmy Carter's reported UFO sighting, a survey of astronomers showing significant belief in UFOs as a phenomenon worthy of study, and a statement by the Prime Minister of Grenada to the UN. The article also mentions a widely publicized incident in Syd-England where a voice claiming to be from "rommennesker" (space people) interrupted a news broadcast with a message for Earth. It concludes by referencing predictions from psychics about increased UFO sightings in 1978 and proof of life in space in 1979, with extraterrestrials coming to help solve Earth's problems.

"Budskapet fra Verdensrommet" (The Message from Space)

This section reprints a message allegedly from the "ASHTRON GALACTIC COMMAND" that was broadcast during a news program in Southampton, England, on November 26, 1977. The message warns humanity about impending destruction due to their misuse of atomic energy and negative weapons. It urges leaders to become aware of destructive forces and calls for a cessation of conflict to allow for spiritual development into a new age (Aquarius). The message also warns against "false prophets" who will exploit people for their own gain. It emphasizes listening to one's inner divine self for guidance and expresses concern for Earth's development, offering help to solve problems. The message concludes with a farewell from the command, wishing blessings of love and truth.

"UFO-Kontaktperson" (UFO Contact Person)

This article reports the passing of George W. Van Tassel, a known UFO contact person from the 1950s. Along with figures like George Adamski and Daniel Fry, Van Tassel claimed to be in contact with extraterrestrials who guided him in building a machine called "THE INTEGRATRON." This project, which had been ongoing for 25 years, was intended to rejuvenate the human body. Van Tassel founded and led "THE MINISTRY OF UNIVERSAL WISDOM, INC." and edited the publication "PROCEEDINGS." The article quotes his wife, Dorris, stating that their goal is near completion and that they will succeed with God's help. It also includes an excerpt from "PROCEEDINGS" explaining the principles behind the Integratron, focusing on the electrical nature of life and the regeneration of cells rather than disease.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the profound impact of science fiction films, particularly "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," on public perception of UFOs and extraterrestrial contact. There is a strong undercurrent of spiritualism and a belief in higher intelligence beyond Earth. The magazine appears to advocate for a more open and scientific approach to UFO phenomena, moving away from skepticism and ridicule. The editorial stance seems to be one of cautious optimism regarding humanity's future, emphasizing the need for spiritual growth, awareness, and a move towards peace, while also acknowledging the potential for external guidance and intervention from extraterrestrial sources. The issue frames UFOs and potential contact not just as a scientific curiosity but as a significant event with spiritual and prophetic implications for humanity's evolution.

This issue of the magazine, identified by page number 10 and 12, features a prominent article on P.D. Ouspensky and his philosophy of the 'Fourth Way'. It also includes reports on the activities of a Spiritualist group, and an article exploring the connection between Earth's electromagnetic field and human life, drawing parallels with astrology.

The Fourth Way by P.D. Ouspensky

The article introduces P.D. Ouspensky's concept of the 'Fourth Way', presented in his book "THE FOURTH WAY". Ouspensky, a student of Gurdjieff, emphasizes that this is not his own system. The core idea is to be more awake in life, as most people live like automatons. He begins with a quote from Gurdjieff: "If you cannot observe what is happening within you, if you cannot let a ray of light into this inner darkness by practicing self-observation, you will have nothing real to work with!"

Ouspensky categorizes previous human paths into three "ways":

• The Fakir's Way: Develops control over the body, but at the expense of intellect and feeling.
• The Monk's Way: Develops devotion and religious feeling, but at the expense of the body and intellect.
• The Yogi's Way: Develops intellect through knowledge, but at the expense of the body and emotional life.

All these ways, Ouspensky notes, require withdrawal from active life. In contrast, the Fourth Way involves training in daily activities and experiences, simultaneously developing intellect, feeling, and the body.

Ouspensky's cosmology is described as original, explaining the universe in six dimensions, built upon the laws of 3 and 7, as detailed in his book "New Model of the Universe". Human development must encompass both knowledge and being, achieved harmoniously. He identifies four centers within us: intellect (head), feeling (solar plexus), movement and instinct (lower back). Each center has its own gravitational center and timing, and must be developed individually for higher advancement.

Myths and symbols are seen as tools to help humans reach higher centers and transfer values that the intellect cannot grasp, thereby preventing misinterpretation. Myths are directed towards the higher feeling-center, and symbols towards the higher center.

Ouspensky further divides human development into seven centers:

• I: Instinct and movement dominant.
• II: Feelings dominant.
• III: Intellect dominant.
• IV: A transformation begins.
• V: Beginning of self-awareness, higher feeling, and unity.
• VI: Objective consciousness.
• VII: Attainment of a permanent self, free will, and immortality within our solar system.

Most people are considered "1+2+3-humans", not pure self-sufficient beings. Advancement to center 4 requires practice.

Energy is a key concept. Ouspensky states that humans receive a measured amount of energy and must use it wisely. Most people waste energy on worries, restlessness, automatic movements, idle talk, and uncontrolled thoughts. He advises getting rid of negative emotions first, as they drain energy and hinder development.

"Imagination" is discussed as something that works outside our will, involving uncontrolled thoughts and false self-perceptions. "Identification" is described as losing oneself in what one thinks, does, or experiences. In relation to others, this is called "considering", where people worry too much about not being valued. The advice is to observe oneself and understand which center is acting.

Self-awareness is crucial for understanding our being. The article notes that Western psychology generally avoids this topic. The system's lack of popularity is attributed to people wanting immediate results and reluctance to admit they are automatons.

True change requires conscious work. External influences are categorized into:

• A-Influence: Promotes external progress.
• B-Influence: Comes from art, literature, philosophy, and religion. This creates a magnetic center that attracts more of the same influence.
• C-Influence: Direct contact with someone who can teach something significant, not merely "B-influence".

Development requires a step-by-step approach, with one foot on the previous step before moving to the next.

Love is presented as a cosmic phenomenon that drives creative activity. The energy of love can transform into higher intuition and consciousness, revealing a wondrous world. The article concludes this section with a quote from "Tertium Organum" about a richness of the secret sides of our existence, where we come into direct contact with eternity in love and death.

Spiritualist Group Activities

The magazine reports on the general assembly of the Spiritualist group held on February 7th. Despite low attendance (7 members), the assembly proceeded. Key decisions included:

• Election of a new Committee: The committee elected will serve for two years, to aid the Nordic Spiritualist Union (NSU) with a congress in Norway in 1979.
• New Committee Members: Kari Aubert, Berit Falch Christensen, Lars Dannevig, and Bjørg Jeppesen were elected.
• Annual Report for 1977: Approved.
• Financial Report for 1977: Postponed to allow Lars Dannevig to be present.
• Membership Dues: An annual fee of 30 NOK was set, with the meeting fee reduced from 10 NOK to 5 NOK.
• Meeting Program: It was decided to conclude meetings with meditation.
• Membership List: The list will not be distributed but will be kept by the committee, with members allowed to view it by appointment.
• Bylaws: A proposal to change bylaws was made, and the committee will review them.
• Meeting Dates for 1978: Set for March 15, April 12, May 10, September 13, October 11, and November 15.
• Donations: Dolores Lem donated Raymond Moody's "Life After Life". Books from the estate of Hans Løken were also mentioned.
• 1977 Meetings: Six meetings were held with topics including the pineal gland, the third eye, different consciousness levels, meditation experiences, and the astral plane.
• Public Presentation: The group presented at a public meeting in January.
• Introductory Course: The introductory course for new members has been effective.
• Membership Growth: The group gained 5 new members in 1977, bringing the total to 25.
• Circles: A meditation circle (precursor to a development circle) and a development circle (7 members) are active.
• Loss of Member: Hans Løken passed away unexpectedly in June.
• Committee Members (1977): Kari Aubert, Berit Falch Christensen, Hans Løken, and Lars Dannevig (who took over after Løken).

An open meeting on Parapsychology was announced for May 5th, featuring a lecture by Torsten Holmquist from Sweden.

Earth's Power Station Affects Mankind

This section, authored by John Karevoll, explores the influence of Earth's electromagnetic field on human beings. Soviet research is mentioned, including plans for special hospital rooms to shield patients from electromagnetic activity. A two-year research project between the University of Oslo and the Academy of Sciences in Moscow is underway to map Earth's electromagnetic field.

Soviet researcher Valery Troitskaya noted that small changes in Earth's electromagnetic field have noticeable effects on people, particularly influencing the nervous system and blood composition. Patients in mental institutions are especially susceptible. This research is considered part of mapping all aspects of human existence.

The article draws parallels between this research and astrology, noting that Western science has only touched upon this area. It references C. G. Jung's work on synchronicity and astrology, and Professor Rudolf Tomaschek's research on the connection between astronomical and terrestrial events, which he termed astrological, physical, chemical, physiological, or psychological.

Michel Gauquilin is mentioned as a researcher involved with the "International Society for Biometeorology".

Recent research in the USA and Israel has found correlations between atmospheric ionization and human feelings. In the Soviet Union and USA, clear links have been established between electromagnetic conditions and growth rates of bacteria, plant growth, cell division, animal orientation (fish, birds), human enzyme activity, and other factors.

Northern lights are highlighted as indicators of increased electromagnetic activity, with anecdotal reports from Norway about their effects on people, especially in the north. However, concrete research results are scarce.

Earth's magnetic field also changes with the time of day and lunar phases. The moon's influence on humans is well-known, particularly its connection to the menstrual cycle. It is also noted that patients in mental hospitals become unusually restless during a full moon.

Solar storm activity has been linked to increased occurrences of heart attacks, pneumonia, typhoid and cholera epidemics, and microbial activity.

Traditional Astrology

The article discusses traditional astrology, noting that the Sun is just one factor, with planets also playing a role. Research by John H. Nelson suggests planetary positions can influence earthly conditions, similar to the Sun's effects.

Modern astrology has evolved, with "cosmobiology" placing less emphasis on house systems and "carfo-astrology" considering geographical location at birth and where an individual settles. Astrology is also being used in family planning.

Week-blad astrology, which focuses only on the Sun sign, is viewed with skepticism by serious practitioners. Obtaining a detailed horoscope from an "authorized" astrologer can be costly, with organizations like "Zodiak" in Norway being active.

The article questions whether the new research is merely "statistical magic," referencing a statistician who found a correlation between Cuban rum prices and Canadian temperature fluctuations.

Astrology is based on the idea that everything is interconnected, with humans being an inseparable part of the universe. Jeffry Mishlove is quoted stating that in new physics, objects and things are seen as complex accumulations of mutually influencing electromagnetic fields, and that everything in the universe emits electromagnetic radiation.

Saturn - The Old Enemy - Your Friend?

This section explores the astrological significance of Saturn. It is often feared as an enemy that hinders progress, but the article suggests it represents "karma" and relates to what we bring from past incarnations. Saturn, along with the moon, indicates things carried over from previous lives.

Saturn is described as the "FORM" we use in our current life, built by our thoughts and actions. This form is solid, and the ego clings to it, leading to fear of letting go and embracing new things. However, all is development, and a new form must be created.

Jupiter is presented as the path forward, the opposite of Saturn in a birth chart. It shows the way forward for the current incarnation. A "conflict" between Jupiter and Saturn in a birth chart indicates an unwillingness to renew oneself, but conflicts also drive development.

The Sun distributes the energy for the current incarnation, Saturn creates the form, the moon gives it life, Mercury spins the threads, Mars and Venus provide outward energy, and Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto revise this structure, ensuring nothing remains static.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around esoteric philosophies, spiritual development, and the interconnectedness of the universe and human life. The magazine appears to explore alternative perspectives on consciousness, energy, and human potential, bridging scientific inquiry with spiritual and astrological concepts. The editorial stance seems open to exploring these less conventional ideas, presenting research and philosophical viewpoints that challenge mainstream scientific paradigms.

This document is page 20 of a Norwegian publication, likely a magazine titled 'UFO Norge', as indicated by the initials 'J.S.K.' and the number '20' on the page. The primary content consists of two articles: one philosophical/astrological piece about Saturn and its influence on personal transformation, and a metaphorical narrative about navigating a crossroads. The overall tone is introspective and spiritual, focusing on personal growth and acceptance of change.

Article 1: Saturn's Role in Transformation

The first article, attributed to UNNI HOYLE, discusses the planet Saturn not just in an astronomical sense, but as a symbol of change and renewal in human life. The author expresses a common fear of revising and renewing old ways, but advocates for approaching these changes with anticipation and joy. It is suggested that resistance to change leads to conflict, stress, and illness, which are presented as natural laws of the cosmos. The article posits that other planets like Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, and Mars stimulate this transformation, guiding individuals towards a greater understanding of cosmic power.

Saturn is described as having 'broken up,' losing its 'stiffened form,' and now acting as a messenger of developmental stages in our lives. Pain is associated with unwillingness or a lack of alignment with 'God's plan,' but this pain will cease if one understands the message Saturn conveys. The core message is encapsulated in the quote: "What was true yesterday will not be true today and will be renewed even more tomorrow." This emphasizes the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of life and truth.

Article 2: Saturn - A Crossroads?

This section, with the headline 'SATURN ET VEIKRYSS?' (Saturn - A Crossroads?), presents a metaphorical narrative. The reader is addressed directly as 'you' and finds themselves at a strange crossroads, feeling a sense of familiarity. The narrative describes encountering three arrows pointing downwards, indicating something around the person. The question arises whether one is walking in circles or if there are similar crossroads elsewhere. The narrator then realizes that much later, they found themselves at a similar crossroads. This time, they noticed a small arrow pointing 'straight up.' Initially hesitant and perhaps fearful ('redc' - likely a typo for 'redd' meaning afraid), the narrator eventually discovers this upward path and begins to climb 'upwards.'

This narrative serves as an allegory for life's journey, where individuals often face choices and moments of confusion (the crossroads). The downward arrows might represent past patterns or external influences, while the upward arrow signifies a path of progress, spiritual ascent, or a more positive direction. The initial hesitation and eventual decision to climb upwards highlight the process of overcoming fear and embracing a new direction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are transformation, personal growth, the acceptance of change, and spiritual evolution. The editorial stance appears to be one that encourages introspection and a proactive approach to life's challenges, viewing them as opportunities for development rather than obstacles. There is a clear emphasis on understanding the 'cosmic laws' and aligning oneself with a perceived divine plan for personal betterment. The publication seems to blend astrological interpretations with spiritual guidance, aiming to provide readers with insights for navigating their life paths.