Seklet - 1971 Vol 18 No 5

Magazine Overview

This issue of SEKLET, number 5 from Volume 18, published in 1971, is primarily dedicated to the "Oil Threat" and its far-reaching environmental and societal implications. The cover boldly questions whether Scandinavian countries are destined to become mere exploitation areas for the global oil industry, setting a critical and urgent tone for the content within.

The Oil Threat: A Global Crisis

The lead article, "Hela Oceanen oljenedsmutsad!" (The Entire Ocean is Oil-Polluted!), penned by Henrik Nilsson and originally written in 1970, highlights the alarming frequency and scale of oil spills. The author laments the public's desensitization to these disasters, suggesting a societal tendency to ignore the problem due to 'over-saturation'. The article details recent events, including a significant oil slick drifting towards the coast of West Jutland, Denmark, and multiple slicks threatening the coast of Eastern Småland, Sweden, impacting birdlife and tourism. The report from the Danish finance committee underscores the inadequacy of current disaster response funds.

Thor Heyerdahl's RA 2 expedition is cited, reporting a 2,250-kilometer stretch of the Atlantic Ocean contaminated with "floating shok with asphalt-like oil," making it impossible to avoid seeing the pollution. The article questions where all the waste oil and debris from ships, which continue to be discharged despite international conventions, is going.

The Torrey Canyon Disaster

A detailed account of the Torrey Canyon oil tanker disaster on March 18, 1967, is provided. The grounding of the tanker off the coast of England resulted in the largest oil catastrophe at sea to date, releasing 117,000 tons of crude oil into the English Channel. The article describes the devastating impact on the coasts of England and France, including thick layers of oil, toxic gases, and severe damage to marine life, fishing, and oyster banks. The cleanup efforts were extensive, requiring gas masks, and resulted in numerous poisoning cases. The financial cost to England and France is estimated in the tens of millions of kronor, with insurance companies bearing significant losses.

Alaska's Oil Bonanza

The issue reports on the remarkable oil auction in Alaska in September 1969, where extraction rights for the Prudhoe Bay oil field were sold for over 4.5 billion Swedish kronor. This discovery is described as potentially the largest known oil field in the world, estimated to contain between 1 and 2 billion tons of crude oil. The article notes that the state retained a similar-sized area for future auctions. It also touches upon the potential for significant natural gas reserves in Alaska.

Norway's North Sea Oil Rush

Norway is depicted as being in a state of euphoria due to the discovery of large oil and gas deposits in the Ekofisk field in the North Sea. The article notes the media's jubilant coverage of this "oil rush," with headlines proclaiming Norway's newfound wealth. However, it also raises critical questions about the potential negative consequences for Norway, Sweden, Europe, and the world, questioning the sustainability of this development.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Henrik Nilsson's article "Bortom här och nu" (Beyond Here and Now) is presented as a broader philosophical exploration of humanity's relationship with nature and technology. He critiques the relentless exploitation of natural resources, arguing that it leads to the destruction of the environment and ultimately threatens human survival. Nilsson emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting nature's laws, warning against the hubris of technology and the pursuit of short-term economic gains at the expense of long-term ecological balance.

He criticizes the environmental impact of hydroelectric power, citing the drying up of landscapes and the disruption of natural water cycles. The article also expresses strong reservations about nuclear power, highlighting the dangers of radioactive contamination and the insurmountable challenge of managing nuclear waste. Nilsson advocates for a return to more natural and sustainable ways of living, urging a shift away from the "robbery" of natural resources.

The Spiritual Dimension

Nilsson also delves into the realm of parapsychology, UFOs, and the nature of consciousness. He discusses the concept of an "etheric body" and "astral body," suggesting they are aspects of a "wider reality" that extends beyond our physical existence. The article includes a simple experiment for observing one's aura. He posits that time, as we understand it, is merely a special form of a fundamental "time" in this greater reality, where thoughts can directly influence energy matter.

Critique of Modern Society and Technology

The magazine expresses deep concern about the direction of modern society, characterized by unchecked technological advancement and a disregard for natural limits. The article "Till de folkhemske" (To the Home-Loving People) uses poetic language to critique a society that prioritizes artificiality and efficiency over natural beauty and human connection. It satirizes a world where clouds are square, and nature is replaced by manufactured landscapes.

Alternative Medicine and Healthcare

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a critique of the Swedish socialstyrelsen (National Board of Health and Welfare) by the Läkargruppen för antroposofiskt orienterad medicin (LAOM). This group of doctors argues that the socialstyrelsen's dogmatic approach hinders the development and use of biological medicines and alternative treatment methods. They call for an open-minded investigation into these therapies, emphasizing the importance of patient well-being and the potential for strengthening the body's natural healing abilities. The article highlights that non-conventional methods are widely used by doctors in continental Europe, contrasting this with the restrictive environment in Sweden.

Literary and Cultural Contributions

The issue includes book reviews, notably of R. De Witt Miller's "Bortom här och nu," which is praised for its attempt to synthesize parapsychological experiences. A review of Ingeborg Jonsson's poetry collection "Sjungande hav" (Singing Sea) commends its artistic merit and emotional depth. The publication also features a poem by Gunnar Ekelöf and a list of Rudolf Steiner's works, indicating an interest in spiritual and philosophical literature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are environmentalism, the critique of unchecked industrialization and resource exploitation, and the exploration of alternative perspectives on health, spirituality, and human existence. The editorial stance is clearly critical of the prevailing societal focus on economic growth and technological progress at the expense of ecological balance and human well-being. There is a strong call for a re-evaluation of priorities, urging a return to a more harmonious relationship with nature and a greater emphasis on holistic approaches to health and life.

This issue of 'Seklet' magazine, from 1971, features a range of articles touching upon societal, philosophical, and environmental concerns of the era. The cover prominently highlights the issue of fluoride toothpaste as a potential environmental pollutant and health concern.

Articles

Fluortandkrämen – den glömda miljöföroreningen (Fluoride Toothpaste – The Forgotten Environmental Pollutant)

This article by Erik Wehkaoja critically examines the use of fluoride toothpaste, particularly for children. It references a 1971 circular from the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare advising caution for children under 7 and specifically warning against its use for children under 4 due to the risk of swallowing and potential fluorosis. The author points out that warnings about fluoride's risks, including 'mottled teeth' (fläcktandjuka), have existed since at least 1969, citing research published in the Swedish Dental Association's journal. The article details a complaint filed by the author against Bofors toothpaste advertising for being misleading, violating advertising regulations that prohibit exploiting consumer trust or lack of knowledge. The author criticizes the Consumer Opinions Board (later KO) for not taking stronger action, suggesting that the issue was complex due to the significant economic interests involved in the toothpaste market. Despite initial setbacks, a campaign led to KO acknowledging the risks and advising against fluoride toothpaste for children under 4. However, the author laments that comprehensive information about fluoride's potential harms, even at 'optimal' doses, is still lacking for the public.

Livets mening (The Meaning of Life)

Authored by Christer E., this piece explores the existential questions surrounding the meaning of life and suffering. The author posits that the 'meaninglessness' often felt stems from individuals being overly focused on themselves and their past, rather than looking towards the future. He suggests that active energy, directed towards future goals and aspirations, is key to finding purpose. The article criticizes modern societal development, characterized by technocracy and a focus on profit and experimentation, for neglecting individual human needs and contributing to widespread suffering and alienation. It argues that society has become a 'total institution' where individuals are controlled by norms and laws that serve the system's economic and status development, rather than fostering genuine human connection and well-being. The author highlights the loss of individual agency and the pressure to conform, leading to behavioral issues and a sense of being an 'object' rather than a person. He emphasizes the importance of natural communities and shared experiences, which are lacking in the current societal structure.

Frankl

This section details the experiences of psychiatrist Viktor E. Frankl, who spent three years in Nazi concentration camps. Despite the horrific conditions, Frankl managed to find meaning in his existence. The article describes the psychological stages prisoners went through, including initial denial, 'camp shock,' and a form of 'gallows humor' as a coping mechanism. Frankl's book, 'Livet måste ha mening' ('Life Must Have Meaning'), is presented as a testament to his findings on how individuals can discover purpose even in the direst circumstances. His work is linked to the idea that suffering itself can be a source of meaning, a concept also explored by Dostoevsky and Kierkegaard.

Livet och människan (Life and Man)

This article, by John Björkhem, discusses the importance of 'soul care' and the power of words in helping individuals find meaning and overcome feelings of isolation and alienation. Björkhem emphasizes that words, when used with care and understanding, can be a powerful force for healing and connection. He contrasts this with the current societal trend where words have lost their depth and meaning, contributing to a 'sour' inner life. The author argues that modern society's emphasis on competition, efficiency, and collectivism leads to isolation and a devaluation of the individual. He calls for a renewed focus on personal growth and finding 'inner joy' (inre jubel), a concept also touched upon by Rudolf Steiner. Björkhem suggests that the individual must look towards the future for fulfillment, rather than dwelling on the past. The article concludes by quoting Björkhem on the dangers of increasing collectivization leading to dictatorship and the erosion of individual value and happiness, stressing the need for soul care to preserve human dignity and value.

Thor Heyerdahl om mötet med oljan (Thor Heyerdahl on Encountering Oil)

This piece recounts Thor Heyerdahl's experiences with severe oil pollution during his voyage, as described in his book 'Expedition Ra.' Heyerdahl vividly portrays oceans choked with oil lumps, far outnumbering fish. He describes the unpleasantness of washing in the polluted water and the pervasive presence of oil clumps of various sizes. He notes that the pollution was so extensive that it was difficult to observe anything else. The article also mentions other forms of waste, such as plastic containers and debris, contributing to the degradation of the marine environment.

Månfararen och avantgardisten – det aktuella och det tidlösa (The Moonfarer and the Avant-Garde – The Current and The Timeless)

Authored by Frithjof Hallman, this article discusses Otto Heuschele's work, particularly his pamphlet 'Das Unzerstörbare' ('The Indestructible'). Heuschele is presented as a thinker who analyzes modern society, technology, and the pursuit of the 'current' (aktuella) versus the 'timeless' (tidlösa). The article uses the example of moon missions to illustrate Heuschele's view that while astronauts achieve incredible feats of technical perfection, they are not 'heroes' in the traditional sense, but rather symbols of a technologically driven era. Heuschele argues that true heroism requires more than technical skill; it involves a reliance on the divine and a connection to the eternal. The article also touches upon Heuschele's perspective on avant-gardism, suggesting that while innovation is necessary, it must build upon tradition and history, rather than seeking to destroy it entirely. He emphasizes that the power of tradition is often underestimated and that true progress lies in learning from past mistakes and cultivating timeless, indestructible ideas.

Vem sände hunden? (Who Sent the Dog?)

This short piece recounts a story cited by Professor Bengt Hoffman, about a woman in Manchester who was protected by a dog from an attacker. The dog's unusual behavior and fierce defense are presented as a mysterious event, possibly involving spiritual or guardian-like intervention.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'Seklet' appears to adopt a critical stance towards unchecked technological advancement and societal trends that devalue the individual and nature. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of finding meaning in life, the psychological impact of suffering, and the need for genuine human connection and community. The articles advocate for a balanced approach, valuing tradition and timeless ideas alongside progress, and express concern over environmental degradation and the potential dehumanizing effects of modern society. The editorial stance seems to be one of critical reflection, urging readers to consider the deeper implications of societal developments and to seek personal and collective well-being beyond material and technological pursuits.