Seklet - 1972 Vol 19 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of SEKLET, dated 1972 (published in 1973), is a Swedish-language magazine focused on critical perspectives on technology, environment, and health. The cover prominently features the headline "Kärnkraftverk - döden i grytan" (Nuclear power plants - death in the pot), signaling a strong anti-nuclear stance. The magazine is published by Litteraturförlaget and priced at 2:50 SEK including tax.

The Greatest Sabotage in Human History Against Life Itself

The lead article, by A. Bergson, argues that nuclear power is the greatest threat to life. It critiques a Dagens Nyheter article from April 10, 1973, which advocated for the expansion of nuclear power in Sweden to meet energy demands. Bergson contends that while nuclear power is presented as a solution to the energy crisis, it is in fact a deadly threat. He cites prominent scientists like Albert Einstein, who warned against the knowledge of atomic energy, and Otto Hahn and F. Soddy, who expressed regret over their discoveries and called nuclear power proposals "insane."

The article highlights the risks of radiation, comparing nuclear power plants to atomic bombs in case of catastrophe. It dismisses claims that normal radiation leakage is insignificant and that natural radiation is higher. Dr. Shields Warren is quoted stating that "every amount of radiation, even the smallest, is harmful to the reproductive organs of all living beings." Linus Pauling is cited as saying that "in our generation, about 300,000 people have already fallen ill or died of leukemia due to nuclear experiments," and that "in the next ten generations, about 20 million children will suffer physical and mental damage from the same cause."

Dr. Abel Wolmann is quoted stating that radioactive radiation from the peaceful use of atomic energy is "much more harmful to the human gene pool than previously assumed." Professor Werner Kollath, a biologist, argues that "artificial production of isotopes is a return to the primordial times when life had not yet formed" and that "the sun is our great energy source, not the atom."

Professor Friedrich Wagner is quoted refuting the idea of an energy crisis, suggesting that the nuclear industry was created to provide employment for scientists and technicians after the atomic bomb project. He claims that nuclear reactors were initially built to produce plutonium for atomic bombs, and the heat generated was then repurposed as a justification for peaceful nuclear energy.

The article also criticizes the concept of an "energy crisis," suggesting it was manufactured to promote nuclear power. It points to the shutdown of coal mines and the halting of hydroelectric projects as measures to artificially create an energy shortage. The financial backing for the nuclear industry is attributed to major financiers and the government, promising huge profits.

Dangers of Nuclear Power and Radioactive Waste

The article details the dangers of radioactive waste, stating that it poses a threat to all living things for an immeasurable time. It mentions the difficulty of storing this waste. The article also contrasts natural radioactivity with artificial radiation from nuclear power plants, asserting that the latter is a "witch's brew" of radioactive substances.

Reactor Failures and Risks

Several nuclear power plant failures in Europe are listed, including Geestacht (cracks and radiation leakage), Karlsruhe (fire and radiation spread), Grundremmingen (brittle turbine components due to neutron radiation), Lingen (leaks into the river Ems), Obrigheim (explosion and radiation spread), and Würgassen (leaks). The Luzens incident in Switzerland, where a reactor melted down, is highlighted as a near catastrophic event.

The article states that nuclear power plants have a lifespan of only about 15 years due to neutron radiation damaging materials. It also points out the inefficiency of uranium utilization (0.1%) and the generation of vast amounts of dangerous radioactive waste.

Alternative Medicine and Natural Remedies

The magazine dedicates significant space to alternative medicine. A parliamentary motion (Mot. 1973: Nr 1174) by Gernandt and others is presented, advocating for the increased use of natural substances and so-called natural healing methods in healthcare. The motion argues that the current healthcare system is over-industrialized and overlooks biological aspects.

It discusses various alternative practices, including homeopathy, herbal therapy (Phytotherapie), balneology, massage, and anthroposophical medicine, noting their acceptance and practice in countries like Germany, France, and England. The article criticizes the Swedish medical establishment for its resistance to these methods and its narrow focus on conventional, synthetic treatments.

It highlights the growing public interest in "choice in healthcare" and the need to promote time-tested folk medicines and natural remedies. The article argues that citizens should have the right to access safe and effective natural treatments, especially when new synthetic drugs are experimental.

International Perspectives on Alternative Medicine

The article touches upon international debates regarding non-conventional treatments. In Denmark, a biochemist, O. Ballin, was prosecuted for using homeopathic dilutions. The case sparked protests and a Gallup poll showing that 57% of Danes desired access to free therapeutic alternatives.

In Germany, discussions are underway regarding regulations for medicines within the EEC, with proposals for different medical groups to develop their own guidelines. The article also mentions the UK's approach, where the emphasis is on ensuring safety and quality of medicines rather than dictating their efficacy, and the concern about a "drug explosion" and its negative side effects.

The Schauberger-Chardin Universe Model

Another section explores the work of Viktor Schauberger and the Schauberger-Chardin (PKS) School, which proposes a universe model based on harmonic principles and natural laws. The article connects this to the ideas of Pythagoras and Kepler, suggesting that all matter operates according to harmonic laws, from the macrocosm of planetary orbits to the microcosm of atomic structure.

Walter Schauberger is quoted stating that "matter is energy built according to harmonic order" and that the concepts of "time and energy" and "space and energy" are harmonic value forms. The article suggests that this understanding of a universal law could lead to a fundamental shift in scientific and philosophical perspectives.

SEKLET's Mission and Call to Action

The magazine emphasizes its long-standing fight against environmental destruction and pollution, noting that many of its predictions have come true. It calls for support from its readers, including a request to sign a petition for the promotion of natural substances and methods in healthcare.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are a strong critique of nuclear power and its associated risks, a promotion of environmental consciousness, and a defense of alternative and natural medicine. The editorial stance is clearly anti-nuclear, pro-environment, and in favor of a more holistic and humane approach to healthcare. The magazine positions itself as a voice for critical thinking against prevailing industrial and technological paradigms, advocating for a return to natural principles and a greater respect for life.

This issue of SEKLET magazine, dated 1973, features the beginning of a serialized publication of Günther Schwab's influential book "Djävulsdansen" (The Devil's Dance). The magazine highlights the book's significance in describing the environmental destruction and the spiritual crisis facing humanity.

Djävulsdansen: A Serialized Novel

The magazine introduces "Djävulsdansen" as a powerful and revealing work that has been difficult to obtain. It explains that the book, originally published in Germany in 1958 and translated into Swedish in 1960, predates the widespread environmental awareness sparked by Rachel Carson's "Silent Spring." The article emphasizes Schwab's dramatic and well-documented portrayal of the systematic devastation of the Earth's life support systems.

The narrative of "Djävulsdansen" follows a group of young intellectuals who are led to the "Devil's headquarters." Here, they witness the planning and execution of a grand assault against humanity and the conditions necessary for its survival. The Devil is depicted as representing negative forces driven by human ignorance, egoism, greed, and self-aggrandizement, all working towards the ongoing annihilation.

Publisher's Presentation of "Djävulsdansen" (1960)

A section from the original publisher's presentation describes the book's central question: "Is this world God's or the Devil's?" The story revolves around four young individuals—American journalist Bob Harding, German technician Alfred Groot, Swedish author Sten Stolpe, and French doctor Rolanda—who, unable to find answers, decide to interview the Devil himself. Bob Harding, revealed to be an associate of the Devil, orchestrates their visit.

Upon arriving at the Devil's opulent office, located on the 82nd floor of a skyscraper, they are presented with detailed accounts from various department heads within the "annihilation ministry." These presentations cover the Devil's work in areas such as unchecked industrial development, air and water pollution, the misuse of fertilizers and pesticides, soil degradation, deforestation, erosion, desertification, biological degeneration, the erosion of work ethic, moral decay, psychological damage from stress, and the development of nuclear weapons.

The book is described as a fact-filled, logically constructed narrative that details the methods used to destroy humanity. It argues that without a renewal of spiritual feeling and a return to divine laws, human culture cannot endure. The book is presented as a beacon of hope and a guide through the era of destruction.

The Characters and Their Encounter

The narrative then delves into the characters' experience. Bob Harding, a seemingly modern and arrogant journalist, arranges a trip for his friends, Alfred, Sten, and Rolanda, to visit the Devil. They attend a party and are then driven by Bob to an unknown location. They awaken in a luxurious setting, which Rolanda realizes is the Devil's house.

They are met by "Do," the Devil's secretary, who presents a surprisingly mundane image of the Devil as a well-fed director. The Devil himself appears, not as a monstrous figure, but as a shrewd businessman. He reveals that Bob Harding is his employee and that the purpose of their visit is to convince them of his power and to recruit them.

Sten Stolpe expresses doubt about the Devil's omnipotence, arguing that good, love, and nobility are stronger than their opposites. The Devil counters by asserting his pervasive influence through his global organization, which corrupts all aspects of human life, from the environment to human morality and intellect. He claims to have agents everywhere, systematically poisoning air, water, food, and land, promoting greed, and causing moral and intellectual decay.

Alfred Groot, a technician, represents a belief in progress and technology as the means to overcome challenges, while Sten Stolpe maintains faith in the inherent goodness of humanity and the eventual triumph of good over evil. Rolanda, the doctor, grapples with the reality of the situation, questioning the existence of God and the possibility of finding answers.

The Devil, or "chefen" (the boss), explains that his power lies in his organization and his ability to manipulate human desires and weaknesses. He presents himself as the embodiment of progress and development, while simultaneously orchestrating destruction. The encounter highlights the stark contrast between the characters' beliefs and the Devil's pragmatic and all-encompassing plan for annihilation.

Other Articles and Features

"TV-sjuka barn" (TV-sick Children)

This short piece from "Livsskydd" (Life Protection) reports on special homes established in the USA for children suffering from "TV-narcomania." These children exhibit severe behavioral disturbances due to excessive television viewing, including nervousness, headaches, and an inability to distinguish between TV content and reality. They require extensive rehabilitation without television.

Prins Philip Says Truth About the EU

Prince Philip is reported to have criticized the EU's agricultural policy, accusing Brussels bureaucrats of ruthlessly exploiting fertile land and disregarding established agricultural practices. He described the EU's industrial approach as causing chaos in agriculture.

Bondedöd också i Tyskland (Peasant Death Also in Germany)

This article discusses the decline of traditional farmers in modern industrialized countries, including Germany. It criticizes the promotion of large-scale industrial farming and the negative impact of EG (EEC) price policies, which are predicted to lead to the loss of significant agricultural land. The article laments the destruction of the culture that has emerged from farming communities.

"Oljehotet" (The Oil Threat)

This is the second part of an article by Henrik Nilsson, which was delayed due to the author's illness. It is postponed to a later issue.

"Quo Vadis?"

This article, also from a previous issue, is postponed due to the author's illness.

Book Reviews and Publications

The magazine includes advertisements and brief descriptions for several books:

• "Människokunskap, del 1 o. 2" (Human Knowledge, Part 1 & 2) by Viktor Vallberg.
• "Älska världen" (Love the World) by Charlotte Leopold von Arenstorff, a book about the clairvoyant Tage Skiöld.
• "Livet och människan" (Life and Man) by Dr. John Björkhem, a book on human relations and personal conflicts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SEKLET strongly emphasizes themes of environmental destruction, the spiritual and moral decay of modern society, and the pervasive influence of negative or "demonic" forces. The serialization of "Djävulsdansen" serves as the central piece, framing these issues as an existential threat to humanity. The magazine appears to align with a critical perspective on unchecked technological and industrial progress, advocating for a return to spiritual values and a recognition of the interconnectedness of life. The inclusion of articles on Prince Philip's critique of the EU and the plight of farmers suggests a broader concern for the impact of modern economic and political systems on traditional ways of life and the environment. The editorial stance is one of warning and urging readers to confront these dire realities.