Seklet - 1968 Vol 15 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of SEKLET magazine, dated 1968, features a diverse range of articles, from historical medical practices and early UFO reports to philosophical and environmental discussions. The cover headline, 'Ur en gammal Läkarebok' (From an Old Medical Book), introduces a series of excerpts from a homeopathic text, offering insights into 19th-century medical understanding and treatment.

Historical Medical Practices and Homeopathy

The magazine begins by presenting excerpts from an old homeopathic medical book, likely from the late 19th century, possibly authored by or related to Dr. Liedbeck. The text explains the principles of homeopathy, contrasting it with allopathy and detailing the foundational work of Samuel Hahnemann. It describes Hahnemann's discovery of the 'like cures like' principle through self-experimentation with cinchona bark. The article also touches upon the philosophical underpinnings of this method, drawing parallels to figures like Paracelsus and discussing the concept of vital force or 'od' as described by Reichenback and Straniak. The text suggests that homeopathic remedies work from within the organism, influencing its vital energy rather than directly targeting material symptoms.

Near-Death Experiences

Several accounts detail near-death experiences (NDEs). Mrs. Hulton, revived after being declared clinically dead, describes an experience in a 'wonderful world' filled with light and music, where she felt liberated from the fear of death. Similarly, Mrs. Redino, after being revived in New York, recounts floating in a blue, violet-hued expanse, accompanied by music, before returning due to thoughts of her children. Madame Francis Leslie also describes a journey through a luminous shaft and encountering a deceased friend after being revived. George Murphy, after a fatal truck accident, recounts leaving his body and witnessing a film of his life before being pulled back by a dark hand.

Early UFO Sightings: The 'Ghost Flyer'

The magazine revisits the phenomenon of the 'spökflygaren' (ghost flyer), an unexplained aerial phenomenon reported in Northern Scandinavia and Finland well before World War II. It cites Erik Lindorm's book, which documented parliamentary inquiries in 1934 regarding these mysterious aircraft. Reports from Umeå suggest the 'ghost flyers' were possibly guided by radio, and investigations involving aerial searches yielded no results. The article notes the similarity of these reports to later UFO phenomena and mentions Friedrich Jürgenson's recordings of 'spirit voices' in the context of unexplained aerial phenomena.

Biopolitics and the Future of Agriculture

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to 'Biopolitiska aspekter på jordbrukets och landsbygdens framtid' (Biopolitical Aspects of the Future of Agriculture and Rural Areas). This section critically examines the prevailing 'techno-dogmatic' approach to societal planning, which prioritizes economic growth and industrialization over ecological and human well-being. The author argues that this approach, characterized by intensive farming, urbanization, and resource depletion, is unsustainable and detrimental to human health and the environment. The article advocates for a biopolitical perspective that emphasizes restoring natural living conditions, ensuring biological security, and maintaining the integrity of essential life factors like air, water, and nourishment. It criticizes the mass migration from rural areas to cities, viewing it as a societal breakdown that leads to physical and psychological ailments, and likens the expansion of cities to cancer cells.

The article highlights the overexploitation of global resources by Western countries and warns of impending crises such as food shortages, water scarcity, and land degradation. It critiques the reliance on technology to solve these problems, suggesting that a fundamental shift in human consciousness and values is necessary. The author stresses the importance of a healthy rural population as a foundation for a vital society and criticizes the modern tendency to view culture and civilization as synonymous, advocating for a return to reverence for nature and its laws.

Philosophical Reflections and Human Condition

Further articles explore philosophical themes. One piece discusses Hermann Keyserling, a German-Baltic philosopher and founder of the School of Wisdom in Darmstadt. Keyserling is presented as a guide for humanity navigating a world increasingly dominated by atheism, nihilism, and materialism. His philosophy emphasizes the importance of the soul and emotion over pure intellect, arguing that an overemphasis on intellectualism has led to brutality and a loss of empathy. Keyserling's ideas are compared to those of Eastern thinkers like Lao Tzu and Buddha, and his call for a synthesis of spirit and soul is presented as a path to a higher humanity. The article critiques the dehumanizing effects of modern technology and materialistic ideologies, particularly in the Soviet Union and the United States, and contrasts them with the harmonious ideals of ancient Chinese and Indian cultures.

Another section, 'Är kriget nödvändigt?' (Is War Necessary?), questions the inevitability of war, suggesting it stems from a flawed human disposition. The author argues for a radical shift in moral consciousness and complete disarmament as the only path to lasting peace, drawing parallels to the teachings of Jesus. The piece also touches upon the growing awareness of environmental issues, citing the potential lawsuit against 'Systemet' for alcohol-related deaths and the discussion around banning disposable glasses and synthetic detergents.

Medicinal Plants and Their History

The magazine also includes a historical overview of medicinal plants, tracing their use from ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, China, and Egypt through Greek and Roman times. It highlights the contributions of figures like Dioscorides, author of 'De Materia Medica,' and Pliny the Elder. The development of monastic medicine and the role of monasteries in cultivating and disseminating knowledge of medicinal plants are discussed. The text notes the resurgence of interest in medicinal plants during World War I, when chemical medicines became scarce, leading to renewed research and the identification of officinal (officially recognized) plants.

Homeopathy for Influenza

A practical guide to homeopathic treatment for influenza is provided, suggesting specific remedies like Ars. alb., Mercurius sol., Belladonna, Bryonia, and Rhus tox. based on the symptoms. It offers dosage recommendations and advice on protecting oneself from infection.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SEKLET are a critical examination of modern societal trends, particularly the dominance of materialism, technology, and economic rationalism, and a call for a return to spiritual values, natural living, and a holistic understanding of humanity and its place in the universe. The magazine appears to advocate for a more conscious, nature-aligned, and spiritually grounded approach to life, criticizing the negative consequences of unchecked industrialization and urbanization. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of individual well-being, environmental health, and the preservation of humanistic values, often drawing upon historical and philosophical perspectives.

This issue of SEKLET magazine, dated Spring 1968, presents a diverse range of articles focusing on philosophy, spirituality, health, and societal commentary. The magazine's editorial stance appears to be one of promoting deeper self-understanding, advocating for natural and holistic approaches to health, and critically examining contemporary societal trends. The publication offers a blend of intellectual discourse, practical advice, and spiritual reflection.

Key Articles and Themes

Hermann Keyserling: A Philosopher of Life

The issue features a significant article on the philosopher Hermann Keyserling, introduced by Frithjof Hallman. Keyserling is presented as a thinker who, despite living in cosmopolitan cities, maintained a deep connection with nature, drawing inspiration from it throughout his life. His philosophy emphasizes the "it is you" principle, advocating for a reverence for all life forms, akin to Albert Schweitzer's approach. Keyserling's travels, particularly his world tour documented in "Reistagebuch eines Philosophen" (Österland och västerland), are highlighted as a revelation that pointed towards a new humanity and ethics, stressing the importance of meditation for inner growth. The article quotes Keyserling extensively, touching upon themes of human egoism, the nature of good and evil, the importance of self-mastery, and the superficiality of modern life. Hallman posits that Keyserling, with his universal education and profound yet accessible approach, offered a path out of the chaos of the times, likening him to ancient Chinese thinkers and even suggesting he fulfilled Nietzsche's ideal of a 'superman'.

The Dangers of Misguided Astrology

An article by V.V. warns against fraudulent astrologers who exploit vulnerable individuals with negative and unfounded predictions. The author criticizes the use of outdated methods and the lack of humanistic sensitivity among some practitioners. The piece cites examples of individuals being told their horoscopes predicted dire misfortunes, leading to anxiety and despair. It emphasizes that while birth charts can offer insights into character and tendencies, they are not deterministic. The article advocates for a responsible approach to astrology, or 'cosmobiology' as it is now termed, stressing that it should be a tool for self-knowledge and guidance, not a source of absolute pronouncements. It calls for a 'sanitation' of the field to make it a valuable instrument for understanding humanity.

Health and Natural Remedies

The magazine explores various health-related topics. One article discusses the concept of reincarnation and the law of cause and effect (karma), distinguishing it from the Indian concept of 'samsara' (soul wandering). It suggests that reincarnation offers a possibility for spiritual growth. Another section addresses the question of whether cancer can be prevented or cured. It highlights anecdotal evidence of successful treatments using homeopathy and mentions the potential of dietary approaches, referencing Dr. Kuhl's diet. The article also notes the efficacy of birch ash and refers to the magazine "Vegetarianen" for further information. The benefits of wheat germ oil, rich in Vitamin E, are also promoted, along with its added components of lecithin and pectin.

The Brain as the Instrument of the Soul

An article titled "Hjärnan är själens instrument" (The Brain is the Soul's Instrument) explores the relationship between the brain and the soul. It posits that the brain functions as an instrument for the soul, enabling conscious thought and personal identity, as evidenced by the development of self-awareness in children. The piece references the research of Gall and Spurzheim in phrenology, suggesting that different self-qualities have specific areas of activity in the brain, all interconnected. This understanding, it is argued, led to a new perception of the human psyche, including innate talents and potential flaws.

Poetry and Spiritual Reflections

Poetry is also featured, including a piece titled "Vinterkväll" (Winter Evening) by Desirée, which uses the imagery of winter to convey a message of hope and transformation. Another poem, "Hämden" (Revenge), also by Desirée, draws from the biblical passage "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord" (Romans 12:19). The poem warns against the destructive nature of revenge, describing it as a dark and ultimately self-defeating path that leads to ruin.

SEKLET's Book Package Offer

The magazine includes a promotional offer for a "SEKLETS bokpaket" (SEKLET's book package) for Spring 1968. Readers are invited to choose books from a provided list valued at 110 SEK for a discounted price of 100 SEK, with postage and handling included. This offer aims to support the continued publication of the magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SEKLET are the pursuit of a deeper, more meaningful life through philosophy and spirituality, the importance of natural and holistic health practices, and a critical examination of societal issues and potentially misleading trends like pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting intellectual curiosity, spiritual growth, and well-being, while cautioning against superficiality and deception. The magazine champions thinkers like Keyserling and Schweitzer for their profound ethical and spiritual insights and encourages readers to seek knowledge and self-improvement through various means, including natural remedies and introspection.