Seklet - 1956 No 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of Seklet, number 4 from 1956, is a Swedish publication focusing on a variety of alternative and critical perspectives on science, health, and society. The magazine features articles on organic chemistry, psychic healing, revolutionary energy technologies, historical mysteries, and social commentary.

Livets Kemi (The Chemistry of Life)

This section, written by an unnamed author, emphasizes the importance of organic chemistry for the future of agriculture. It critiques the current reliance on synthetic fertilizers, arguing that they deplete the soil of essential nutrients. The author cites apothecary Julius Hänsel from Norway, who in the late 19th century warned that cultivated soil was becoming impoverished. The article stresses that the primary chemical fertilizer for restoring soil fertility and producing wholesome food should be stone meal, derived from rocks. While natural manure contributes, it is deemed insufficient. The author expresses concern that the agricultural science establishment is beholden to large artificial fertilizer companies, hindering progress. The medical faculty is also called upon to address the dangers of these 'false paths' but is seen as increasingly subservient to state control and bureaucratic systems.

Kunna sjukdommar botas på psykisk väg? (Can Illnesses Be Cured Psychically?)

This article explores the phenomenon of psychic healing, acknowledging that 'healing by psychic means' occurs daily, though rarely in extreme forms. It broadens the concept beyond mere 'faith healing' to include psychological influences like the Coué method, which uses autosuggestion ('better and better day by day'). The article mentions the use of suggestive instruments to aid concentration. It also touches upon 'thought transference' and 'blood stasis' as forms of psychic influence, suggesting a subconscious interaction between the healer and the healed, the nature of which remains unclear. The author notes that certain learned readings are used as concentration aids, implying a connection to faith rather than literal interpretation. A recent radio discussion on faith healing is criticized for being biased and an attempt to discredit such practices. The author recounts an example where a woman's breast cancer was reportedly healed, which a doctor attributed to a 'higher physician,' but the article questions the scientific validity and the limitations of medical explanations.

Härstammar människosläktet från ort i världsaltet? (Does the Human Race Originate from a Place in the Universe?)

This section presents a speculative theory about the origins of civilization, drawing from a Swiss magazine 'Weltraumbote' which in turn cites a Paris newspaper 'La Presse' from May 3, 1955. The article highlights the findings of prominent English Egyptologist Walter Bryon Emery, who, after 30 years of research in Egypt, concluded that no trace of civilized life existed before 6,000 BC. He posits that 'primitive humans' suddenly began building palaces with remarkable craftsmanship and possessed advanced techniques for working with various materials, including textiles. Emery questions the source of this knowledge, suggesting that the 'wild inhabitants of the Nile Valley' may have received visits from 'supernatural teachers who came with flying saucers.' The article references the book 'Flying Saucer Have Landed' by Leslie and Adamsky, which reportedly reaches similar conclusions and delves into the 'true origins of history' when humans could still utilize their 'inner powers' before the separation of religion and science.

Inplosion contra explosion (Implosion versus Explosion)

This extensive article introduces the theories of Austrian scientist Viktor Schauberger, as detailed in the book 'Implosion statt Explosion' by Leopold Brandstätter. The author argues that Schauberger's discovery represents a revolutionary energy generation method, far surpassing the significance of atomic energy. The article begins by warning about the dangers of atomic bomb testing and the destructive nature of current 'explosion technology,' which pollutes the earth, air, and water, leading to degeneration. Schauberger's 'implosion' is presented as a biologically natural way to release atomic energy. The core of his theory is that nature operates on two fundamental forces: pressure (centrifugal) and suction (centripetal). While current technology relies on pressure, leading to friction, heat, and gravity, nature's upward and refining movement relies on suction, which causes temperature drops, frictionlessness, and levitation. Schauberger's patented device, a 'cycloid spiral curve,' utilizes this principle. Water or air flowing through this spiral, which also rotates, creates a 'biological vacuum' and diamagnetism, a form of 'etheric energy' that is life-sustaining and healing. The article describes a prototype 'implosion machine' that can generate significant power, far exceeding that of conventional reactors, and can even regenerate water, making it beneficial for health. The author notes that Schauberger's work was suppressed by the German high command during WWII and later by Russian and American forces, with attempts to steal his designs. The article concludes by urging readers to study Schauberger's work, available through Litteraturförlaget.

Inför en 85-års dag (Approaching an 85th Birthday)

This short piece is a tribute to Kyrkoherde emer. V. Vallberg, who celebrated his 85th birthday on August 23rd. It mentions a gathering with family and friends, highlighting his continued intellectual engagement and his role as a contributor to Seklet.

Viktor Vallberg's Reflections

In response to a request for his thoughts on his 85th birthday, V. Vallberg shares reflections on his experiences, particularly concerning forest taxation and the concept of 'unearned' land value, referencing Henry George's 'Progress and Poverty.' He expresses his primary mission as a priest: to promote a higher standard of righteousness. Vallberg laments the perceived decline of Christian values and the rise of individualism and secularism, criticizing the modern education system and the state's control over various aspects of life, including healthcare and potentially the church itself. He touches upon issues like the 'after-Christian era,' the inefficiency of new population registration systems, and the potential for psychiatric evaluations to be misused. He also criticizes a committee proposal that would effectively eliminate homeopathic medicine from pharmacies, deeming it an attack on individual freedom and a disregard for the growing acceptance of homeopathy in other countries.

Frenologien (Phrenology)

This article by V. Vallberg defends phrenology against criticism. He argues that the ease with which some learn phrenology might be why learned individuals dismiss it. He quotes Lichtwark saying, 'Everyone is an idiot in their own field,' suggesting that specialists may reject phrenology because it falls outside their expertise. Vallberg addresses common criticisms, such as the idea that well-developed faculties create large bumps, which he states phrenologists never believed. He criticizes writers who perpetuate misinformation about phrenology, accusing them of dishonesty and focusing on minor errors while ignoring valid points. He asserts that phrenology is still widely practiced, citing hundreds of thousands of believers in Sweden. The article also critiques the notion that 'no one believes in phrenology anymore,' stating that many people, including those examined by 'Frödin,' have acknowledged its validity. Vallberg mentions that the phrenological charts in his books are based on the research of Gall and Spurzheim.

En mångsidig författares produktion (A Versatile Author's Production)

This section lists books authored by Viktor Vallberg, including titles on "Människokunskap" (Human Knowledge), "I storm och stiltje" (In Storm and Calm - poetry), "Kan människosläktet fortleva?" (Can the Human Race Survive?), "Materialismens övervinnande" (Overcoming Materialism), "Kristendomens forntid – nutid – framtid" (Christianity's Past – Present – Future), and various works on health-related topics like homeopathy, agriculture, and phrenology. The list also includes titles on 'The Etheric Radiation,' 'Intelligence Measurements,' and 'Astrological Character Interpretation.' A quote from Bishop Torsten Bohlin praises Vallberg's 'unique authorship' as worthy of recognition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes alternative viewpoints on science, health, and spirituality, challenging established norms and institutions. There is a strong emphasis on natural methods, whether in agriculture (compost, stone meal), healing (psychic healing, homeopathy), or energy (implosion technology). The editorial stance is critical of mainstream science, medicine, and government policies, often portraying them as controlled by vested interests or as detrimental to human well-being and the environment. The magazine champions individual freedom, critical thinking, and a return to what it perceives as natural or spiritual principles. There's a recurring theme of uncovering hidden truths and exposing what the editors consider to be societal or scientific 'rot' ('rättsrötan'). The publication appears to be a platform for disseminating ideas that are outside the conventional discourse of the time.