Seklet - 1962 Vol 09 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: SEKLET
Issue: N:r 2 Arg. 9
Date: 1962
Publisher: SEKLET
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of SEKLET, published in 1962, presents a critical examination of human progress and the natural world. It features a dual cover headline: "The era of great inventions" and "Humus – the foundation of life." The magazine explores the paradox of technological advancement, questioning whether inventions truly serve humanity's best interests or are primarily subject to misuse. It also delves into the ecological crisis of soil degradation, emphasizing the vital role of humus and the detrimental impact of human activities on this essential natural resource.

The Era of Great Inventions

The lead article, "The Era of Great Inventions," questions the ultimate benefit of human ingenuity. It posits that while inventions offer conveniences and expand human capabilities, their true value must be judged by the potential for misuse. The author uses examples like radio and cinema, suggesting they have often served base interests rather than higher ideals, contributing to the erosion of morality and cultural values. The article critiques the use of airplanes for warfare and the chemical industry's production of artificial substances, arguing that these advancements often lead to destruction and fear rather than progress and well-being. The core argument is that the true measure of an invention's significance lies in the potential for its abuse, which, historically, has often become its primary application.

Humus – The Foundation of Life

This section, drawing from Annie Francé-Harrar's work, focuses on the destruction of humus, identifying it as humanity's greatest danger. It contrasts the natural processes of humus formation with human-induced degradation. While natural factors like climate change have caused humus loss in the past, the article asserts that human ignorance, foolishness, and arrogance are the primary drivers of humus destruction in the modern era. The text details how early agricultural practices, like deforestation for farming and the subsequent burning of forests, depleted the soil. It describes how the loss of forests disrupts climate regulation and water cycles, leading to desertification. The article criticizes modern agricultural methods, including the use of heavy machinery, deep plowing, and monoculture, for further damaging soil structure and depleting its organic matter. It highlights the decline in soil microorganisms essential for nutrient cycling and the negative impact of chemical fertilizers. The author laments that humanity continues to repeat these destructive patterns, leading to land ruin and ecological imbalance.

Belief in the Spirits of the Departed

This article examines the concept of belief in the spirits of the deceased, tracing its presence across different cultures and historical periods. The author challenges the notion that this belief originated solely with the historical development of religions, citing evidence from indigenous cultures that predate complex religious structures. The text discusses the biblical account of King Saul consulting the witch of Endor to summon the spirit of Samuel, illustrating an ancient belief in spiritual communication. It also references anthropological studies by James G. Frazer, providing examples from New Guinea, Fiji, and Native American tribes, where rituals were performed to appease or ward off the spirits of the dead. The article concludes that belief in the afterlife and the continued existence of spirits is a near-universal human concept, present even in the earliest stages of societal development.

Dowsing and Pendulums

This section critically analyzes the practice of dowsing (water witching) and the use of pendulums. It discusses a comprehensive study conducted in America that identified a significant number of dowsers. The researchers' conclusion that dowsing results are due to unconscious muscle movements is questioned. The author points out the high success rate reported (74.4% for finding water) and argues that such a consistent outcome cannot be attributed to mere chance. The article criticizes the study for its limited literature review and for not involving scientists in the investigation. It suggests that the phenomenon is related to radiation from the objects being sought, particularly in the case of pendulums, which are described as having greater significance and providing more decisive results due to systematic deflections.

The Art of Palmistry

This review discusses the Swedish translation of "The Complete Guide to Palmestry" by Mr. Psychos, translated by Ake Ohlmarks. While acknowledging the book's potential to fill a gap in Swedish literature on palmistry, the reviewer expresses disappointment with its content. The reviewer criticizes the author and translator for overlooking significant German literature on the subject and for exhibiting a skeptical or dismissive attitude towards palmistry. The review notes that the book's arguments for the validity of palmistry are weak and lack credibility. It points out flaws in the author's analysis, such as the assertion that hand lines are fully developed in a 3-month-old fetus and the lack of emphasis on analyzing the overall hand shape. The reviewer suggests that the author may rely on clairvoyance rather than objective analysis. Despite these criticisms, the book might offer some interesting insights for those already familiar with palmistry.

Health and Natural Remedies

Several articles focus on natural health and remedies:

• Fo-Ti-Tieng: This herb, translated as "life elixir," is highlighted for its purported anti-aging and health-promoting properties. It is described as a nutrient-rich substance that strengthens nerves and brain cells, improves digestion, and is believed to have been used by the ancient Chinese to promote longevity. The article mentions scientific research and cultivation efforts in Algeria and Ceylon.
• Vitamin Supplements: The magazine advertises various vitamin supplements, including Vitamin A, Pro-Vitamin A+D, Vitamin F, Vitamin C (Ceforte), and Vitamin E capsules, detailing their benefits for skin health, immunity, and overall well-being.
• Örtagubbens Linement: This liniment is recommended for various ailments like rheumatism, sciatica, nerve pain, and eczema.
• Biological Agents: Products like Rättikdragéer (radish dragées), Bönskalsdragéer (bean husk dragées), Björkbladsdragéer (birch leaf dragées), and Hagtornsdragéer (hawthorn dragées) are promoted for their natural health benefits.
• Dr Ritter's Wheat Germ Oil: This oil is presented as a rich source of Vitamin E, beneficial for heart and circulatory health.
• Vapo-Flor Gelee Royale: This product combines royal jelly and Vitamin E, touted for its health-boosting properties.
• Luvos Health Clay: Both internal and external use of Luvos Heilerde is recommended for various health purposes.
• Pollen Products: Pollen tablets and a salve are advertised for their health benefits.
• Yoghurt: Yoghurt is praised for its health-promoting qualities, with claims that it can restore healthy blood and combat viruses and bacteria.

Vaccination Controversy

An article titled "Upplysning om smittkoppsvaccinationen" (Information on smallpox vaccination) questions the efficacy and necessity of vaccination. It presents statistics that, according to the author, suggest vaccination does not always protect against smallpox and may not significantly reduce mortality. The article contrasts data from Stockholm with claims made by vaccination advocates, raising doubts about the honesty of the latter. It also compares mortality rates in countries with different vaccination policies, implying that vaccination does not guarantee better outcomes and may serve to maintain medical control over populations.

Human Rights and Societal Issues

Another section discusses "De mänskliga rättigheterna" (Human rights) and the concept of "Bushido," the Japanese system of the warrior. The author reflects on the importance of repeatedly emphasizing human rights in contemporary society, noting how familiarity can lead to complacency. The article touches upon the idea of a "Beast" from the Book of Revelation, interpreting it as a symbol of oppressive, godless powers that seek to control individuals through dogma and conformity. The author draws parallels between this prophecy and modern societal trends, including the rise of state capitalism and the suppression of individual freedoms. The concept of "work" is also explored, emphasizing its importance for human well-being and societal stability, while critiquing the negative impacts of industrialization and mass culture on individual identity and purpose.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SEKLET consistently adopts a critical and questioning stance towards modern society, technology, and established scientific or medical practices. There is a strong emphasis on natural living, ecological awareness, and the potential dangers of unchecked technological and agricultural progress. The magazine promotes natural health remedies and questions the efficacy and motives behind conventional medicine, particularly vaccination. The editorial stance appears to favor a return to more natural, holistic approaches to life and a greater respect for the balance of nature. The recurring themes include the misuse of inventions, the degradation of the environment (specifically soil and forests), the importance of spiritual and mental well-being, and a critical examination of societal structures and authorities.