PSI Bladet - 1981 No 2 1982 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: PSI-BLADET
Issue: NR. 2 1981/NR. 1 1982 (Double Issue)
Volume: 8.-9. ÅRGANG
Publisher: NORSK FORENING FOR PSYKISK STUDIUM OG INFORMASJON (Norwegian Society for Psychic Study and Information)
Country of Publication: Norway
Original Language: Norwegian
Cover Image: A black and white illustration titled 'MELANCHOLY.', depicting a winged, allegorical figure surrounded by symbolic objects.

Editor's Column (Redaktørens spalte)

The editor, Atle Staurem, begins by apologizing for the delay and announcing that this issue is a double number. He outlines a plan to establish a rhythm of winter, spring, summer, and autumn issues. The magazine is distributed free to PSI members, with an annual subscription available for 50 Norwegian Kroner (half the membership fee). Single issues are priced at 10 Kroner plus postage. The editorial team has reduced its ambition slightly due to a lack of reader contributions, urging readers to send in book reviews or articles on topics they are knowledgeable about. They also request information about upcoming events. The editor mentions that the magazine has changed its typesetting, printing, and press, which has caused delays and extra work but also reduced costs, leading to a revised advertising price. He provides contact information for editorial submissions.

The Editor Solves the Riddle of Existence (Redaktøren løser tilværelsens gåte i Jiddu Krishnamurtis ånd)

This article, inspired by Jiddu Krishnamurti, explores the nature of human action and suffering. It posits that actions arise from dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs and the desire to change things. Past experiences shape our reactions to stimuli, creating needs. Unfulfilled needs lead to suffering, and fulfilling them only brings a temporary cessation of suffering, resulting in a state of emptiness. The author argues that life itself is change and action, driven by unfulfilled needs. Therefore, "all life is suffering." The ultimate goal of life is seen as the cessation of suffering, conflict, and action, akin to Nirvana. The paradoxical conclusion is that "NON-ACTION IS COMPLETE ACTION."

The article then shifts to how one can achieve liberation from this cycle. It suggests becoming aware of the mechanisms that govern life, understanding how past conditioning shapes our thoughts, and approaching the present moment with an open mind and total awareness. The author advises against seeking external teachers, as this can lead to further conditioning. True freedom comes from recognizing that problems exist only in relation to the dimension of time. By living in the "now," without conflict or desire for change, one can achieve harmony and freedom. This is not about passive inaction but about fully engaging with the present moment with intense awareness, free from fear or ulterior motives.

Flying Machines and Spaceships in Ancient India? (Fly og romskip i det gamle India?)

This article, translated from Danish and originally from the magazine Farmand, investigates claims of advanced technology in ancient India. It references the vast Sanskrit epic, the "Mahabharata," which allegedly contains over 110,000 verses detailing spaceships piloted by "by gods" from other solar systems, engaged in aerial combat with "demons" using advanced weaponry. The article highlights the "Agneyastra," a weapon said to have killed over 100,000 soldiers, elephants, and horses in a single blast.

While the "Mahabharata" is considered mythological literature, the author points to two other ancient Indian texts with a strong technical and scientific focus: "Samarangana Sutradhara" (written by King Bhoja in the 11th century) and "Vaimanik Prakaran" (found in a Sanskrit library in Baroda, possibly from the 11th century).

"Samarangana Sutradhara" reportedly contains a chapter on machines and technical devices (Yantras), including the construction of flying machines (Vimana-Yantras) and their capabilities for attack, maneuverability, and endurance. The article quotes a description of a "flying chariot" resembling a large bird with a solid hull, mercury for propulsion, and fire at its base, capable of flying through the atmosphere and carrying multiple passengers. It mentions the use of iron, copper, and lead in these machines.

"Vaimanik Prakaran" is said to describe instruments for protecting spaceships from dangers in space, and details a motorized aircraft called "Krtak" with 31 parts and four types. It mentions devices that repel air attacks, use solar energy, and capture images. The article questions whether these are mere science fiction or evidence of a highly advanced ancient space technology, suggesting that if such detailed descriptions were conceived a thousand years ago, the author would be a genius far surpassing Jules Verne.

The article also touches upon an Egyptian wooden model found in 1898, initially labeled a "toy bird," but suggested to be an advanced aerodynamic flying machine. Hieroglyphs from a tomb reportedly describe fiery rings of light observed by a pharaoh. The text further discusses the use of mercury as a propellant in modern rocket science, linking it to the ancient Indian descriptions. It notes that ancient Indian texts mention travel to two inhabited planets and that the technology described is not found in other historical records, suggesting a possible external influence, perhaps from "extraterrestrial civilizations" or "divine beings" like Shiva.

Tolerance and Understanding (Toleranse og Forståelse)

This section presents a lecture given by Lars Dannevik at the Nordic Spiritualist Union conference in Finland. Dannevik shares his personal struggle to understand and embody tolerance and understanding, admitting he did not initially pass the "test" when he prayed to be tried. He sought a definition of tolerance in a lexicon, finding it related to patience and forbearance, but also a technical interpretation.

Dannevik proposes a "main principle" for tolerance and understanding: "Be first and foremost understanding and tolerant towards others." He then explores how one can achieve this, suggesting that the teachings of Jesus Christ in the "New Testament" provide a model for living with understanding and tolerance towards all beings and nature, leading to a state of "love-consciousness."

He contrasts this with the concept of "Intolerance" as symbolized by the Danish prophet Martinus. Martinus' symbol depicts God's love as a radiating cross, obstructed by a "screen" formed by human intolerance. This screen prevents divine light from reaching Earth, resulting in darkness, war, and suffering. Intolerance is described as a manifestation of a being's indignation or hatred towards another due to differing views, beliefs, or ideals. Martinus suggests that individuals are not to blame for their intolerance until they have experienced the painful consequences of it.

Dannevik then connects this to contemporary issues, such as international politics, arms races, nuclear threats, drug abuse, crime, and social unrest. He poses the question of how to react to these challenges with understanding and tolerance, suggesting that one must take a stand and send loving thoughts to those involved, while waiting for a new era to emerge.

Other Articles and Sections

• "Redaktøren løser tilværelsens gåte i Jiddu Krishnamurtis ånd": Explores philosophical concepts of suffering and existence.
• "Fly og romskip i det gamle India?": Investigates ancient Indian texts describing advanced technology.
• "Toleranse og Forståelse": A lecture on spiritual and ethical principles.
• "Notater om noen eksperimenter med Uri Geller": Likely discusses experiments involving the psychic Uri Geller.
• "Manning og andre av Uri Gellers etterfølgere": Continues the discussion on Uri Geller and his followers.
• "Øynene": A topic by Lars Dannevig.
• "Takk skal du ha!": A contribution by Philip Houm.
• "Alternativ Legekunst - Finnes den?": Discusses alternative medicine.
• "Bokomtaler" (Book Reviews): Reviews of various books.
• "Notiser" (Notices): Short news items.
• "Visdomsord" (Words of Wisdom): Inspirational quotes or sayings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to focus on parapsychology, spirituality, philosophy, and alternative viewpoints, often drawing connections between ancient wisdom and modern scientific or philosophical concepts. There is a clear interest in exploring phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, such as ancient advanced technology and psychic abilities. The editorial stance encourages critical thinking, personal spiritual growth, and open-mindedness, while also promoting reader engagement and contribution to the magazine's content. The issue emphasizes the importance of inner transformation, understanding, and tolerance as pathways to a more fulfilling existence.

This issue of PSI magazine, identified as volume 11, issue 11, dated "side (11)" (likely January 1982 based on context), is a Norwegian publication with a price of 20 kr. The cover prominently features the headline "Mer om ATLANTIS" (More about ATLANTIS), with a subtitle indicating it's based on an article from "Ukeadressa nr. 29/79." The issue delves into various spiritual, parapsychological, and historical topics.

The Legend of Atlantis

The magazine dedicates a significant portion to the lost continent of Atlantis. It references the writings of the philosopher Plato, specifically his dialogues "Timaios" and "Kritias," which recount the story of Atlantis as told by the historian Solon. The narrative describes Atlantis as a powerful civilization that existed 9,000 years before Solon's time, located in the Atlantic Ocean beyond the Pillars of Hercules (Gibraltar). The account details the divine origins of Atlantis, with the god Poseidon fathering ten sons who became its rulers, the first of whom, Atlas, gave his name to the land and the ocean. The text vividly describes the advanced civilization, its capital city, its intricate canal system, grand temples (including one dedicated to Poseidon), and its sophisticated infrastructure. It mentions the land's fertility, advanced agriculture, and the military might of its people. The article also touches upon the eventual downfall of Atlantis due to moral decay, greed, and overconfidence, leading to its destruction by a cataclysmic event around 8,000 years before the present.

The article speculates on the possibility of Atlantis being a missing piece in the theory of continental drift, noting how the continents of South America and Africa seem to fit together, with a gap where Atlantis might have been.

The Summit Lighthouse and Spiritual Teachings

Another major section introduces "The Summit Lighthouse," an organization founded in 1958 in Washington D.C. by the "Ascended Master El Morya." The article, written by Else Merete Thyness, a student of the Ascended Masters, explains that the organization's purpose is to publish the Masters' teachings to help people develop their spiritual potential and understand cosmic laws. It emphasizes the importance of understanding, tolerance, and recognizing the "Divine Spark" within all individuals, regardless of their background. The teachings are accessible to everyone, promoting self-awareness and freedom from chaos. The article explains that the Masters are seen as elder brothers and sisters who have achieved their own freedom and wish to guide others. The teachings include practices like prayer, meditation, and contemplation, and the concept of "Christ consciousness." The organization's approach is described as a spiritual tower amidst world confusion, with authority derived from the "Great White Brotherhood."

Psychokinesis and Psychic Abilities

The issue features several articles and notes on psychokinesis (PK), the ability to move physical objects with the mind, and other psychic phenomena. A significant focus is on the Israeli psychic Uri Geller. William Edward Cox, a magician and researcher, recounts his personal experiments with Geller, detailing how Geller bent metal keys and a pocket watch without apparent physical manipulation. Cox describes the meticulous nature of the tests, including the use of a mirror to observe the underside of the objects and the lack of any discernible trickery. He notes that metallurgical examinations of the bent keys showed no abnormalities.

Beyond Uri Geller, the magazine highlights other individuals with alleged psychic abilities. Jean-Pierre Girard, a Frenchman, is described as being able to influence metals through touch or at a distance, with experiments conducted by Professor Charles Crussard and documented in French metapsychical journals.

Matthew Manning, an English sensitive, is presented as having discovered his psychokinetic abilities after seeing Uri Geller on television. He reportedly learned to bend spoons and keys within half an hour. Manning underwent extensive testing in Canada, observed by scientists including Nobel laureate Brian Josephson. Reports suggest he demonstrated remarkable abilities, such as influencing a compass needle and bending over 200 metal objects without physical force. Experiments with Manning also included a computer-based test in Amsterdam where he was asked to break a flickering pattern, and a malfunctioning computer elsewhere in the building reportedly stopped when he finished his experiment.

Julie Knowles, an 18-year-old English girl, is also mentioned for her psychokinetic and telepathic abilities, reportedly bending spoons and transmitting messages across the Atlantic. Professor John Hasted of Birkbeck College conducted experiments with her, using a brass rod inside a glass case, which she managed to bend over time. He also observed her influencing a measuring instrument by focusing on a key.

Other Content

The magazine includes a section titled "Ni tidligere liv" (Nine Previous Lives), featuring a book by Steen Landsy, the leader of Kosmos Center in Denmark. Landsy, who has clairvoyant abilities, recounts his experiences of past lives, detailing nine distinct incarnations from a primitive Spanish hunter before Christ to a student of spiritual science in Germany and England. The book is presented as a personal narrative rather than a documented proof of reincarnation.

There is also a short poem titled "Øynene" (The Eyes) by Lars Dannevig, reflecting on the depth and emotion perceived in someone's eyes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of ancient mysteries (Atlantis), the investigation of paranormal phenomena (psychokinesis, telepathy), and spiritual enlightenment through organizations like The Summit Lighthouse. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance towards these subjects, presenting research, personal accounts, and spiritual teachings without overt skepticism, while also acknowledging the need for further scientific investigation. The editorial stance seems to be one of promoting understanding, tolerance, and the exploration of consciousness and hidden potentials.

Title: PSI
Issue: 25
Date: December 7, 1981

This issue of PSI magazine, a Norwegian publication focused on parapsychology and alternative topics, features several articles and reviews. The main articles include a piece by Philip Houm titled "Takk skal du ha!" (Thank You!) and a critical review by Professor, Dr.med. Christian F. Borchgrevink of the book "Alternativ legekunst" (Alternative Medicine).

"Takk skal du ha!" by Philip Houm

Philip Houm's article, originally from Dagbladet on December 7, 1981, expresses gratitude towards psychics and mediums who assist the police and families in locating missing persons. However, Houm questions whether these individuals receive the deep appreciation they deserve, suggesting the answer might be a "shameful no." He then introduces a Norwegian book published that autumn, "En verden av forundring" (A World of Wonder), by Sissel Lange-Nielsen, written in collaboration with Anna Elisabeth Westerlund, described as Norway's most well-known and foremost parapsychological medium.

The book is praised for its humor, warmth, and courage, particularly the courage of both Westerlund and Lange-Nielsen. Their expertise in complex parapsychological matters is also highlighted. While Lange-Nielsen is not a medium herself, nor a researcher, she has had remarkable parapsychological experiences and closely followed Westerlund's work. Houm suggests that Westerlund deserves high honors, perhaps even the Order of St. Olav, and Lange-Nielsen a lesser honor, proposing the gold merit medal for Westerlund and silver for Lange-Nielsen.

Houm appreciates that Lange-Nielsen includes Westerlund's own explanations for various phenomena. He notes Westerlund's theory, shared by some parapsychologists (especially Russian ones), that psychic phenomena are essentially related to physics and "waves," akin to radio waves, which can be captured at certain frequencies. Telepathy and clairvoyance are seen as linked to a physical sense, which Westerlund believes should be recognized as a sixth sense. She criticizes research that attempts to detach psychic abilities from "all earthly connections," associating them with "occultism" or the "supernatural," which Houm finds "outrageous" given our limited understanding of nature.

Westerlund is optimistic about future generations' capabilities, believing everyone can "receive" images from distant places and times, similar to how TV antennas receive signals. Houm is also grateful that Lange-Nielsen focused on verifiable experiences, including those recorded on tape and documented by journalists and witnesses.

Despite praising the book, Houm wishes Lange-Nielsen had been even stricter, perhaps limiting herself to experiences she could personally verify, given the existence of "stubborn and gullible individuals" who adhere to outdated worldviews. Nevertheless, he concludes that the book generally stays on solid ground, even when describing unsettling phenomena.

He recommends the book for its "easy-to-read" and exciting nature, though it may take many days to read due to its depth.

• Book Details:
• Title: "En verden av forundring."
• Authors: Sissel Lange-Nielsen and Anna Elisabeth Westerlund
• Pages: 185
• Publisher: Aschehoug
• Price: Kr 108 (hardcover)

"Alternativ legekunst" – A Critical Review by Christian F. Borchgrevink

Professor, Dr.med. Christian F. Borchgrevink's review, from Dagbladet on December 10, 1981, discusses the book "Alternativ legekunst" (Alternative Medicine), published by Dreyer forlag. The book provides an overview of nearly 130 different diagnoses and treatment methods, focusing on health rather than just illness, defining health as a positive feeling of physical, psychological, and social well-being according to the WHO.

Borchgrevink describes the book as an encyclopedia rather than a textbook, offering a concise yet interesting cultural-historical perspective. It briefly describes methods used by individuals who practice them and believe in them, but largely omits counterarguments and attempts to demonstrate effectiveness. The book covers a wide range of practices, from Steiner's anthroposophic medicine and Hahnemann's homeopathy to iridology, heavy diagnostics, gem therapy, hydrotherapy, orgone therapy, psychic surgery, meditation, and dance therapy.

The reviewer notes the book clearly illustrates humanity's profound need for something beyond conventional understanding, suggesting that conventional medicine should acknowledge this need and maintain humility given how much remains unknown.

Borchgrevink admits to starting the book with some apprehension, fearing it would be a collection of "articles of faith." He was pleasantly surprised by its informative content, sober style, and balanced presentation, which he found less one-sided than the preface by Dr. Bentze suggested. He also commends the book's tasteful presentation.

He expresses doubt about reviewing the book as a representative of conventional medicine, acknowledging that while open, he might still have "blinders on" and be largely ignorant of the subject. He also notes that the book covers so many alternative methods that few can master them all or even be aware of them.

Borchgrevink observes that many therapies are variations of established psychiatric treatments like meditation, music therapy, sensitivity training, and talk therapy. A recurring theme is the importance of treating the whole person – body and soul – which he finds a valuable reminder, as people often care better for their cars than their bodies and souls.

He finds it difficult for an outsider to distinguish between many recommended methods, noting how individuals seem to attach their names to minor variations, creating new treatment methods. While much in the book reflects common sense, Borchgrevink finds some parts "tempered incomprehensible" and potentially harmful.

He specifically points out the advice "Don't eat when you are sick" (p. 138) as something few doctors would endorse, especially for chronically ill patients. He also expresses mixed feelings about therapeutic eurythmy exercises for cancer (p. 230).

Under "Psychic surgery" (p. 181), he finds claims difficult to accept, such as cotton soaked in oil disappearing into one ear and being retrieved from the other, or healers removing an eye, taking a small piece of tissue from the back, and replacing it. He suggests this depends on the observer's perspective.

The concept of "pyramid power" is mentioned on page 175, claiming a significant force within a pyramid can sharpen a razor blade if the pyramid's sides are aligned with Earth's magnetic field and the blade is positioned at a right angle to north.

Borchgrevink notes that the popularizer of Primal Therapy claims it offers the only true "healing" for all psychological illnesses, a claim the author of that section finds rather excessive.

He concludes that the book's section on primal therapy implies it is the only true "healing" for all psychological illnesses, a claim the author of that section finds rather excessive. He advises readers to approach the book with a "pinch of salt" and not to use it for self-treatment or diagnosis.

• Book Details:
• Title: "Alternativ legekunst"
• Publisher: Dreyer forlag
• Price: Not specified.

Other Book Reviews and Notices

The magazine also features reviews and announcements of several other books and events:

• "Uforklarlige opplevelser" (Unexplained Experiences) by Paul Jan Brudal (Universitetsforlaget, Kr 98): A book on parapsychology and the boundaries of psychology, covering topics like telepathy, clairvoyance, doppelgangers, ghosts, healing abilities, near-death experiences, and UFOs. It includes a foreword by Professor Georg Hygen.
• "Mentalt Fjernsyn" (Mental Television) by Russel Targ and Hal Puthoff (Dreyer, Kr 85): Described as a fascinating book about the ability to "see" distant places and objects, translated by Professor Georg Hygen.
• "På menneskevei" (On the Human Path) by Dan Lindholm (Dreyer, Kr 88): A book about life in a Steiner school, praised for its deep insight into children and humanity.
• "Verdens uløste gåter" (The World's Unsolved Mysteries) (Det Beste, 320 pages, Kr not specified): An illustrated compendium of 100 mysterious areas worldwide, with 250 color photos and 100 other images, posing questions about Atlantis, Sahara's past, and Stonehenge.
• "Reisen til Kiribati" (Journey to Kiribati) by Erich von Däniken (Mortensens forlag, Kr 98): Von Däniken's theory that extraterrestrial astronauts created the basis for Earth's civilization and promised to return.
• "Frisk uten piller" (Healthy Without Pills) by Bjørn Johan Øverbye (Hjemmenes forlag, Kr 130): An introduction to ear acupuncture, detailing how it helps migraine sufferers and offering examples of its effectiveness.
• "Du kan helbrede deg selv" (You Can Heal Yourself) by Bjørn Johan Øverbye (Andersson & Bengtssons Trykkeri, Arendal): Focuses on how to stay physically healthy through acupuncture theory and Taoism.
• "Soneterapi" (Zone Therapy) by Lis Andersen (Dreyer, Kr 96): A comprehensive Norwegian guide to zone therapy with instructive charts.
• "Mysteriet menneske" (The Mystery of Man) by Jan Nielsen (Dreyer, Kr 128): A popular presentation of parapsychological phenomena, covering classic topics like telepathy and clairvoyance, and lesser-known areas.

Notices and Events

The "NOTISER" (Notices) section includes:

• Ellen Soelberg: Acknowledgment of Ellen Soelberg, the long-time accountant for the association, who has moved to a new role as accountant for the Norwegian Parapsychological Society. She is thanked for her service and presented with a tree.
• Lynn M. Buess: An update on Lynn M. Buess, who held a successful lecture in July 1981. His planned return for a course in synergy therapy, numerology, and tarot card reading has been delayed until November 1982 due to the establishment of his own synergy center in the USA. His books are recommended for those interested in these topics.
• Audio and Written Summaries: PSI is now making audio recordings of member lectures, available on cassette for Kr 50 each. They will also prioritize selling written summaries of lectures for Kr 15 each, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the association.
• Upcoming Lectures: A list of past lectures is provided, including those by Lynn M. Buess (Synergy Sessions), Kirsten Tingstad (Astrology), Lin David Martin (The Nature of Healing), Else Merethe Thyness/Geir Salter (Summit Lighthouse), Terje Nypan (Chiromancy), and Benedicte Thiis (Dream & Symbol).
• Advertisement: An advertisement for NATURMEDISINER KAREN-MARIE STRØM, offering private treatments and courses in ear acupuncture, homeopathy, kinesiology, and mineral therapy.

"Visdomsord" (Words of Wisdom)

This section presents a collection of quotes on marriage and relationships from various figures, including Socrates, Disraeli, Samuel Johnson, Harry Fosdick, Samuel Rogers, Oscar Wilde, Heraclitus, Benjamin Franklin, William Congreve, Paul Brunton, and Emerson.

Advertisement

An advertisement for BAI Psykisk Seminar Institutt in Oslo, offering a business and family-oriented training course called "SUPER-MENTALISME" (Super-Mentalism) – a collective term for overview and control of inner forces. They invite interested individuals to a free introductory seminar.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PSI magazine revolve around parapsychology, alternative medicine, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to be a platform for promoting and discussing these subjects, featuring reviews of books and lectures, and providing information on practitioners and courses. While the magazine presents a generally positive view of alternative approaches, as seen in the review of Westerlund's book and the various book announcements, it also includes critical perspectives, such as Borchgrevink's cautious review of "Alternativ legekunst," highlighting the need for discernment and caution when exploring these fields. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into the paranormal and alternative health, while also encouraging a critical and informed approach from its readers.