Sokaren - 1968 No 08

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: No. 8
Volume: 5
Date: 1968
Publisher: Arkivet för UFO-Forskning
Country: Sweden

This issue of Sökaren magazine, published by the Archive for UFO Research, delves into a variety of topics ranging from Buddhist philosophy and parapsychology to UFO research controversies and astrological experiments.

Contents

The Four Sublime States (De fyra upphöjda tillstånden)

This article by Nyanaponika Thera introduces the four sublime states of mind, known in Pali as Brahma-Vihara: Kärlek (loving-kindness/metta), Medkänsla (compassion/karuna), Medglädje (sympathetic joy/mudita), and Sinneslugn (equanimity/upekkha). These states are described as 'excellent, sublime, or divine abodes' that promote peace, heal conflicts, build harmonious societies, and foster human brotherhood. The author explains that these states are cultivated through meditation and ethical conduct, leading to a state of being like Brahma. The practice aims to achieve a boundless and impartial application of these virtues, transcending limitations of nationality, race, religion, or social class. The article details the meditative process, starting with oneself and gradually extending to all beings, and emphasizes that the ultimate goal is to create a stable mental foundation for liberating insight (vipassana).

Colorado UFO Project Controversy (Colorado-fiaskot)

John G. Fuller reports on the tumultuous events surrounding the University of Colorado's UFO Project. The project, intended to be an objective scientific investigation, was plagued by internal conflicts, leading to the dismissal of two philosophy doctors and the resignation of an administrative assistant. Major Donald E. Keyhoe and his organization NICAP initially offered support but grew critical due to perceived skepticism and biased reporting from project director Professor Edward U. Condon. Key internal documents, like a memorandum from project coordinator Robert J. Low, revealed a strategy to downplay evidence and focus on psychological and sociological aspects rather than the physical phenomena, which caused significant concern among researchers. The article highlights the clash between scientific rigor and potential pre-existing biases, with many researchers feeling disillusioned by the project's direction and Condon's public statements.

Experiments with Astrologers (Experiment med astrologer)

William Haste recounts an experiment conducted by the Danish magazine Ude og Hjemme, where eight Danish astrologers were asked to create astrological portraits of the same man. The results varied significantly, with one astrologer, R. G. Wennerholm, being particularly accurate in her description of the subject, Morian Hansen. Haste discusses the challenges in astrology, including the critical importance of precise birth times and the potential for inaccuracies if calculations are off. He also shares an anecdote about Thorkil Barfod's astrological analysis of Adolf Hitler's horoscope in 1933, which accurately predicted a critical point in his life around his 52nd and 53rd year, coinciding with the disastrous invasion of Russia. Another case involves an astrologer accurately describing the life and career of journalist Henry Helssen based solely on birth data.

Expressions of Affection (Ömhetsbetygelser)

This section, attributed to William Haste, discusses the importance of physical affection and touch in human relationships. It references Gerald P. Sanctuary, a marriage counselor who criticized the English for being too reserved with physical expressions of affection. The article argues that a lack of touch can negatively impact marital and family life. It suggests that societal taboos have suppressed this natural human behavior, leading to communication breakdowns and emotional distance. The author advocates for more open displays of affection, such as hugging, holding hands, and gentle touch, as a way to foster richer relationships and reduce stress.

A Rare Mediumistic Phenomenon: Ectoplasm (Ett sällsynt mediatiskt fenomen: Ektoplasma)

William Haste details the phenomenon of ectoplasm, a substance claimed to be produced by mediums. The article focuses on the case of Einer Nielsen, a Danish medium who allegedly produced ectoplasm. It describes experiments conducted by scientists like Professor Charles Richet and others who observed and photographed the substance. The article recounts a specific séance in Oslo where Nielsen was placed in a controlled environment (a cage) and ectoplasm was reportedly produced, though some gestalts were not formed. Despite initial scientific scrutiny and some accusations of fraud, the phenomenon of ectoplasm is presented as a significant aspect of spiritualism, suggesting the continuation of life after death.

Ur Baha'i-skrifterna (From the Baha'i Writings)

This section presents quotes from Baha'i scriptures. Abdu'l-Baha emphasizes compassion towards animals, stating that cruelty to them causes greater suffering as they cannot express their pain. Baha'u'llah is quoted predicting that future food will be fruits and grains, leading to health and strength. Another quote from Abdu'l-Baha suggests that meat consumption will cease in the future.

Is there another world? (FINNS det andra VÄRLDAR?)

This brief section poses a question about the existence of other worlds, suggesting that readers might find answers in a message received by 'E Williams', which reportedly provides evidence for a world beyond our spiritual perception. A summary of this message is offered free of charge.

A Paradigmatic View of the Scientific Process (En paradigmisk syn på vetenskapsprocessen)

This article, a summary of T. S. Kuhn's work, explores the nature of scientific progress. Kuhn argues that science does not progress cumulatively but through 'scientific revolutions' where established paradigms (accepted theories and models) are replaced by new ones. The process involves phases of 'normal science' (working within a paradigm) and 'extraordinary science' (during paradigm shifts). Crises arise when anomalies that cannot be explained by the current paradigm accumulate. These revolutions are often met with resistance, and new paradigms typically gain acceptance as older generations of scientists pass away. The article highlights that scientific history is often rewritten to present a linear progression, obscuring the revolutionary nature of these shifts.

The "Gospel of Peace" (FRIDENS EVANGELIUM)

A letter from Nanny Nilsson to the editor questions the authenticity of a text titled "Fridens evangelium" (The Gospel of Peace), which was previously featured in the magazine. Nilsson states that the Vatican Library has confirmed that such documents do not exist in their collection. The editor responds by clarifying that the magazine presented the text as a 'vegetarian, apocryphal gospel' and not as a historically verified document, acknowledging that it might be a 'falsification' but still finding it fascinating.

Ronald Coyne's Vision (MED DET HÄR ÖGAT SER HAN:)

This article describes Ronald Coyne, a 24-year-old American who claims to see with his empty right eye socket. Doctors are baffled, and skeptics are doubtful, but audiences are reportedly convinced. Coyne demonstrated his ability to read small print and French text after his left eye was covered. He lost his eye at age seven due to an injury. The article notes that he travels with his brother, holding revival meetings and demonstrating his 'miraculous' ability.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, the spiritual, and alternative perspectives on science and reality. There's a clear interest in parapsychology, UFO phenomena, and esoteric philosophies, often presenting accounts and theories that challenge conventional scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring these subjects, providing a platform for various viewpoints, even when controversial or unverified. The magazine also shows an interest in personal growth, spiritual development, and the application of philosophical and religious principles to daily life, as seen in the articles on Buddhist states, Baha'i teachings, and the importance of affection.