Seklet - 1961 Vol 08 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of SEKLET, Volume 8, Number 3, dated March 1961, is a Swedish-language magazine published by Litteraturförlaget. The cover price was 80 öre including the cover. The main cover headline is 'Tryckfriheten enligt lag och enligt verklighet' (Freedom of the press according to law and according to reality), with a prominent article titled 'TRÖSKELN' (The Threshold) by E. Rönne-Petersen. The issue also features a small illustration of a rocket heading towards Venus.

TRÖSKELN (The Threshold)

E. Rönne-Petersen's lead article, 'TRÖSKELN', posits that humanity is crossing a significant threshold. He argues that by February 12, 1961, individuals were still distinct personalities, but after May 10, 1961, they will become mere robots, consumers, or a combination, identified by numbers rather than faces. This transition signifies a move from order to system, individuality to identity, and from emotion to technology. Rönne-Petersen critiques the societal embrace of this change, viewing it as a collective flight from old values and a symptom of widespread 'schizophrenia'. He notes that the Soviet Union's space achievements symbolize this escape, but Western societies are not far behind in adopting a similar path, driven by scientific hubris and a focus on 'measurement' and 'atomic analysis' over spiritual values. The article suggests that this shift is a 'dermatological problem' for Mother Earth.

Tryckfriheten enligt lag och enligt verklighet (Freedom of the Press According to Law and Reality)

V. Vallberg critically examines the concept of press freedom. He asserts that while it is an essential right, its reality is shaped by publishers, not authors. Authors are dependent on publishers, who dictate what is published based on marketability and perceived public influence. Vallberg argues that publishers, along with financial and political powers, act as dictators of public opinion, exploiting the public's lack of independence. He notes that while some publishers and newspapers still maintain moral principles, the trend is towards a society where money and power dictate thought.

Günther Schwab och sockret (Günther Schwab and Sugar)

This section discusses the controversy surrounding Günther Schwab's book 'Djävulsdansen' (The Devil's Dance), which reportedly criticizes the sugar industry. The article highlights how the German sugar trust is allegedly taking legal action against Schwab's publisher, aiming to suppress his work. It draws a parallel to the tactics used by the Freja chocolate company in Norway to counter negative publicity about sugar by funding a professorship in nutritional hygiene. The author suggests that such legal battles might inadvertently provide Schwab with significant publicity.

Flickan bland vårens ängsblommor (The Girl Among the Spring Meadow Flowers)

E. Rönne-Petersen recounts the case of a young woman who attempted suicide and was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Through dream analysis, he guides her towards self-understanding. The patient dreams of being a little girl walking in a meadow, feeling the flowers were taller and more vibrant up close. This dream, when interpreted with her associations, leads to a unique therapeutic approach where she begins a business offering to 'talk' to people's houseplants, which surprisingly thrive under her care. This experience helps her regain a sense of self-worth and purpose.

Ungdomskriminalitet som djuppsykologiskt nutidsfenomen (Youth Crime as a Deep Psychological Contemporary Phenomenon)

E. Rönne-Petersen analyzes youth crime as a symptom of a deeper societal illness affecting the adult generation. He argues that industrialization and societal changes have led to a regression in social structures, where children experience a loss of existential value, replaced by a functional one. He criticizes the prevailing 'adjustment ideology' in psychology, advocating for a 'rhythm ideology' and self-realization. He points to the importance of William Sheldon's work and the need to address issues at the root, such as in maternity clinics, to prevent the 'frustration' of children.

Kosmobiologi (Cosmobiology)

This section delves into the principles of Cosmobiology, explaining how cosmograms and cosmopsychograms are used to analyze astrological influences on personality. It details the interpretation of Sven Hedin's cosmopsychogram, linking his life experiences and characteristics to planetary aspects and positions. The analysis highlights his strong positive core, drive for expansion, extensive contacts, but also his struggles with resistance, inhibition, isolation, and potential illness.

Våra himmelska föräldrar (Our Heavenly Parents)

This article, part of a series on 'Heavenly Sexuality', explores the concept of 'changers' versus 'humans'. It suggests that true freedom lies in individuality, not identity, and that 'changers' (implied to be spiritually evolved beings) possess this individuality. The author contrasts the materialistic focus of modern society with the deeper spiritual truths represented by great thinkers, arguing that contemporary problems could be solved if leaders embraced these profound insights.

Nya böcker (New Books)

• Several books are reviewed:
• 'Livet och människan' (Life and Man) by Dr. John Björkhem, described as a guide for self-care and personal help.
• 'Mystik och realism' (Mysticism and Realism) by Viktor Vallberg, focusing on character research.
• 'Bushido' by an unnamed author, presented as a system for personal development and success.
• 'Nya vidder' (New Vistas) by Dr. Gustaf Strömberg, exploring a world beyond time and space.
• 'Hypnosen i mänsklighetens tjänst' (Hypnosis in the Service of Humanity) by Poul Thorsen, detailing the history and applications of hypnosis.
• 'Djävulsdansen' (The Devil's Dance) by Günther Schwab, a novel discussing life's critical questions.
• 'Det eviga nuet' (The Eternal Now) by fil. lic. Alfred Svanqvist, described as a parapsychological drama.
• 'Skilsmässo problemet' (The Divorce Problem) by E. Rönne-Petersen, a book on divorce and its impact on children.

Health Products and Services

The magazine also features advertisements for various health products, including herbal remedies, vitamin supplements, yogurt products, and natural health aids. It also promotes the formation of 'SEKEL-KLUBBAR' (SEKEL Clubs) across Sweden to foster community and personal growth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SEKLET revolve around the crisis of modern society, characterized by a loss of individuality, the dominance of technology and materialism, and a critique of prevailing psychological and societal norms. The magazine advocates for a return to deeper spiritual and existential values, emphasizing personal responsibility, inner freedom, and a holistic approach to health and well-being. The editorial stance appears critical of societal trends and supportive of alternative perspectives in psychology, health, and philosophy.