Sokaren - 1969 No 03-4

Magazine Overview

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1969, presents a critical examination of flying saucer phenomena and explores various paranormal and spiritual topics. The main cover headline, "FLYGANDE TEFAT - NEJ!" (Flying Saucers - No!), immediately signals a skeptical stance towards the extraterrestrial hypothesis for UFOs.

"FLYGANDE TEFAT - NEJ!" (Flying Saucers - No!)

This lead article summarizes the findings of Professor Edward U. Condon's extensive UFO study conducted at the University of Colorado. Condon's conclusion, based on 21 years of research, is that UFO studies have not yielded any significant increase in scientific knowledge and that further extensive study cannot be scientifically justified. He suggests that the project's findings should help other scientists identify problems and difficulties in UFO research. Condon also notes that while the project primarily focused on the physical nature of UFOs, the phenomenon could also be of interest to behavioral and social scientists. He mentions that social psychology and psychiatry are attempting to understand why groups of people believe in extraordinary hypotheses with little evidence. Condon criticizes sensationalized accounts that have given a distorted picture of UFO phenomena and warns against the uncritical study of UFO books and articles in schools, which he believes hinders the development of critical thinking.

The article touches upon the work of NICAP, a private research group, which Condon criticizes for attacking the Air Force's Project Blue Book. Condon suggests that Project Blue Book could be disbanded. He also notes that field investigators often lack technical training and have a strong inclination towards sensational aspects. The report states that if a UFO report can be plausibly explained by normal phenomena, it is accepted, even if absolute proof is lacking. Condon also addresses the possibility of extraterrestrial life, stating that communication between inhabited planets in different solar systems is impossible due to vast distances, and that life on Venus and Mars, if it exists, is unlikely to be highly developed.

Statistical evidence for claims like increased UFO sightings near Mars or military bases is found to be lacking. The investigation found no physical evidence, such as UFO fragments, despite efforts to collect them. A piece of metal claimed to be from a UFO was examined and found to be magnesium, but not of a purity that couldn't be produced on Earth. The report acknowledges that UFO reporters are generally normal, responsible individuals, and many are relieved when a natural explanation is found.

In a discussion of astronaut reports, Professor F. E. Roach identifies three unexplained observations: a cylindrical object with a protuberance seen by astronaut McDivitt on Gemini 4, another object seen by McDivitt on Gemini 4 at a higher altitude, and a 'bogey' seen by astronaut Borman on Gemini 7. The report suggests that the 'fireflies' reported by Glenn were likely millimeter-sized flakes from the spacecraft itself.

Samuel Rosenberg's historical review questions the authenticity of many historical UFO accounts, pointing out that authors often cite each other without verifying original sources, sometimes relying on fabricated documents. He highlights cases involving alleged medieval sightings and ancient Egyptian papyri, suggesting that many historical UFO claims are dubious until verified.

Voice Phenomena on Tape

By Claude Thorlin

Claude Thorlin recounts the beginning of his research into 'voice phenomena' in August 1963, after a peculiar incident involving a tape recording of a poem. While listening back, he and his wife Ellen discovered an unexplained female voice singing in Swedish, with lyrics about 'karma' and 'destiny'. This sparked their extensive investigation into these mysterious voices.

Over five years, they collected a significant amount of recorded voices, categorized as female, male, and child voices. Some sound lifeless or whispery, while others are clear and distinct. They sometimes recognize the voices of deceased relatives. The entities communicating often use a 'mixed language' (blandspråk), combining words from different languages, which they interpret as an attempt to convey the extraordinary nature of their communication. They sometimes speak clear Swedish, but occasionally use unknown languages. Friedrich Jürgenson, an artist, confirmed that these phenomena are similar to his own experiences.

The messages received are typically brief and fragmented, suggesting a limited energy source. The voices sometimes speak at double speed, requiring playback at half speed to be understood. The Thorlins have also recorded instances of loud 'microphone bangs' when the entities fail to establish a clear connection.

Crucially, the voices sometimes identify themselves as "die Toten" (the dead). In one instance, a voice clearly stated, "Hit kommer die Toten" (The dead are coming here). The Thorlins have also heard voices speaking in Swedish with a foreign accent, such as "Ich sprech um mana..." (I speak of mana), where 'mana' is described as a Melanesian concept for an extraordinarily potent force. They also recount an instance where a voice commented on a dog's ability to see the unseen, stating "Men hunden den kan ju se...!" (But the dog can see it...!).

The Thorlins reject the idea that these phenomena are mere psychological projections or 'suggestion'. They have had their equipment tested by radio experts and TV engineers, who confirmed that no radio stations were interfering with the recordings. A team of scientists also listened to the tapes and dismissed the possibility of radio interference. The Thorlins believe the voices originate from 'the other side' and that their existence supports the concept of life after death.

Dowsing: Black Magic or Science?

By Viktor Popovkin

This article explores the history and scientific investigation of dowsing, the practice of using a forked stick or pendulum to detect underground water or minerals. Historically, dowsing was often associated with superstition and accusations of witchcraft, as seen with the case of Baron de Beausoleil in the 17th century, who was persecuted for using dowsing to find mineral deposits.

Despite its controversial past, dowsing has been studied by scientists. In the early 20th century, engineers Nikolai Kashkarov and Boris Tareyev conducted experiments suggesting that dowsing rods react to changes in air ionization or atmospheric electricity, particularly above underground water or mineral veins. They proposed that the dowsing rod is a highly sensitive electrophysical instrument, reacting to forces far stronger than those measured by galvanometers. However, they could not explain why the rod pointed downwards.

Modern research, such as that by Leningrad geologist Nikolai Sochevanov, has involved using metal dowsing rods and testing the influence of speed, cabin material, and even leather gloves. Sochevanov's experiments indicated that dowsing rods could detect ore veins as thin as 4-6 inches and that the rod's rotation was not solely dependent on the Earth's magnetic field. He proposed that dowsing is a complex system involving a 'living organism' and a 'conductive body', and that it represents a scientific problem that requires further investigation.

The article also touches upon the psychological aspects, noting that hypnotizing dowsers did not increase their sensitivity, and that the ability to dowse could be transferred between individuals through touch. The author concludes that dowsing might be an ancient investigative method that, when studied scientifically, could help solve problems beyond the reach of current geophysical methods.

Some Cases of Double-Going Experience and Bilocation

By Aage Slomann

This article examines the phenomena of autoscopy (seeing one's own double) and bilocation (being in two places at once). Autoscopy can occur in both healthy and ill individuals, with the famous case of Guy de Maupassant, who claimed to see his double dictating to him, cited as an example, though attributed to his later mental illness.

The article distinguishes between simply seeing one's reflection and the more profound experience of autoscopy, where individuals feel they are simultaneously an observer and the observed, experiencing their 'phantom' body's movements and even their thoughts originating from the double. In extreme cases, the visual element may be absent, with the person feeling their bodily sensations and thoughts are perceived by 'another'.

Parapsychological literature contains accounts of 'astral projection,' where individuals feel they leave their physical bodies. Johannes Hohlenberg's experiments in the early 20th century are mentioned, where he described his 'double-goer' moving around his apartment and observing his physical body. The article notes the difficulty in distinguishing these experiences from hallucinations, especially when they involve telepathic or clairvoyant elements.

Sir Alexander Ogston's account from the Boer War describes experiencing his spirit leaving his body, observing events in the hospital, and accurately reporting them to nurses, who confirmed the events. Another case involves a New York doctor who, while traveling by steamboat, experienced his consciousness traveling to a friend's apartment 150 miles away, where he was seen and heard by the friend.

Bilocation is presented as an extreme form of the double-goer phenomenon, where an individual appears physically in two places simultaneously. The case of Spanish abbess Maria de Agreda in the 17th century is mentioned, who allegedly appeared as a missionary in Mexico while her physical body was in Spain. The article also recounts a modern case from Paramhansa Yogananda's autobiography, where his guru, Sri Yukteswar, materialized before him and then appeared at a train station, seemingly dematerializing and rematerializing.

The author acknowledges the skepticism surrounding these phenomena, suggesting they could be explained by telepathic hallucination or psychological factors. However, the recurring nature of such experiences and the corroboration in some cases suggest a deeper mystery.

LKK, The New Church, and Three Minor Religious Groups

By Bo R. Ståhl

This section introduces three religious groups in Sweden: the Liberal Catholic Church (LKK), the New Church (based on Emanuel Swedenborg's teachings), and the Gralsväktarnas Samfund.

Liberal Catholic Church (LKK): Founded in England between 1915-1916 by James J. Wedgwood, a theosophist who was denied ordination in the Church of England. The LKK broke away from the Old Catholic Church, seeking greater freedom from dogma and adaptation to modern needs while retaining sacraments. It is described as a church for theosophists and the 'churchless,' emphasizing that members are not required to believe in specific dogmas. The LKK's liturgy includes a special confession of faith that God is Love, Power, and Truth, and that all children will eventually reach God. The church preserves Catholic traditions like incense and holy water but omits doctrines of divine punishment and human sinfulness. The LKK embraces reincarnation and Eastern religious philosophies.

New Church: Based on the teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772), a scientist who turned to theology after a profound spiritual experience. Swedenborg's extensive writings, including "Arcana Caelestia" and "Heaven and Hell," describe his revelations about the spiritual world. The New Church teaches that Jesus Christ is God and Savior, and that humanity is reconciled with God through Him. They reject the doctrine of salvation by faith alone, emphasizing repentance and a godly life. The New Church believes that the Second Coming of Christ and the Last Judgment have already occurred in the spiritual world in 1757. They teach that the body is buried but the spirit is resurrected in the spiritual world, where individuals are judged by their own actions and desires, leading them to heaven or hell. The article notes that there are three distinct groups of Swedenborgians in Sweden, differing in their interpretation of Swedenborg's writings.

Gralsväktarnas Samfund (Grail Watchers' Society): Founded in 1964 around the spiritual teachings of Elisabeth Ståhlgren. It is an esoteric order with three degrees of initiation. The society works towards establishing a Universal Religion, recognizing spiritual leaders from various traditions (Buddha, Moses, Zarathustra) as equal to Christ. They also believe in contact with extraterrestrial beings from higher developed worlds.

God's Wonders

This section features excerpts from a booklet titled "Bönens makt" (The Power of Prayer) by Marie Monsen, an 85-year-old Norwegian missionary. The booklet recounts instances of miraculous healing and divine protection experienced by Monsen during her missionary work in China. She describes being healed from malaria, dysentery, and sciatica through prayer and faith in biblical promises. Monsen emphasizes that prayer and faith were the keys to overcoming her illnesses, and that her experiences served to strengthen the faith of others. The article also includes an excerpt from her book "Hjälp i nöden" (Help in Need), detailing instances of divine protection from robbers through what she perceived as a 'wall of fire' and 'heavenly soldiers'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical stance towards sensational claims, particularly regarding UFOs, as evidenced by the cover headline and the detailed analysis of the Condon Report. It explores paranormal phenomena like voice phenomena, autoscopy, and bilocation, often presenting scientific investigations and skeptical viewpoints alongside anecdotal evidence. The publication also delves into alternative spiritual movements and new religious groups, providing descriptions of their beliefs and practices. The overall editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, tempered with a demand for scientific rigor and critical evaluation, while also acknowledging the potential for spiritual or paranormal explanations.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: 1
Volume: 1969
Date: January 1969
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated January 1969, presents a diverse collection of articles touching upon paranormal phenomena, scientific advancements, spiritualism, poetry, and psychological insights. The cover prominently features a headline proclaiming "EN SANN SPÖKHISTORIA" (A True Ghost Story), indicating a focus on the uncanny and unexplained.

Articles and Features

A True Ghost Story

The lead article, "EN SANN SPÖKHISTORIA" by A. Dolly Lindén, recounts a personal experience with a ghost. The narrative details how the author's grandmother, after her death, continued to communicate with the family, appearing to her grandson and offering comfort and guidance. The story emphasizes the grandmother's continued presence and concern for her family, even after her passing, suggesting a spiritual continuity beyond physical death.

VARIA: Is the Saucer Super-Leading?

This section explores the scientific concept of superconductivity, a phenomenon where materials exhibit zero electrical resistance at extremely low temperatures (below -190 degrees Celsius). It discusses experiments where magnets levitate above superconducting materials due to magnetic field repulsion. The article draws parallels between these scientific observations and the reported characteristics of UFOs, suggesting that if a spacecraft were superconducting, it could interact with planetary magnetic fields, enabling silent, frictionless movement and potentially explaining the incredible speeds and maneuvers attributed to UFOs. The text quotes from a 1968 article in "Teknikens Värld" which speculates about superconducting craft traveling between planets at near light speed.

UFO Sightings and Reports

Several UFO sightings are documented. One report describes an object observed over Sweden on December 7, 1968, characterized as a large plate with red lights above and below, emitting fiery streams. Another incident, from October 29, 1965, also over Sweden, is recalled, with observations by notable figures like Olof Lagercrantz, who described the object as long, with sharp contours, and moving with "majestic calm."

The magazine also mentions the availability of UFO films from "Modern Film Distributors" in the USA, including titles like "THE LOST CREEK SAUCER" and "THE AIRPORT SAUCER," which depict UFOs and even "life forms from outer space."

A Swedish UFO investigation group, led by the president of the Brazilian Institute of Aeronautics and Space Science, is cited as concluding that flying saucers exist and are extraterrestrial in origin, recommending increased scientific and public attention to the phenomenon.

Spiritualism and Mediumship

William Naylor's book, "Eviga Sanningar" (Eternal Truths), is reviewed. The book presents messages from the spirit "Silver Birch," channeled through medium Maurice Barbanell, editor of "Two Worlds" magazine. The messages focus on the "Law of Love" as the governing principle of the universe and emphasize the eternal nature of the spirit and the concept of reincarnation as a voluntary act for those with a mission.

Poetry Reviews

• Two poetry collections are reviewed:
• "En framtid och ett hopp" (A Future and a Hope) by Birgit Lange. This collection is described as containing sensitive reflections on reality, with a notable section titled "Marias inferno" (Mary's Inferno) that addresses the horrors of atomic and napalm bombings. The reviewer highlights the intensity and concise, aphoristic style of Lange's poems.
• "Bergen skall sjunga" (The Mountains Shall Sing) by Olof Thorborg. This collection explores life's mysteries with a sense of wistful melancholy. Thorborg questions the existence of God but finds solace in a mystical experience of the universe. The review notes Thorborg's focus on life's power while acknowledging its imperfections, and points to the poems "Var hälsad!" (Be Greeted!) and "Raggen" as particularly vivid.

Book Reviews

• "Mystiker i Vällingby" (Mystics in Vällingby) by Carl-Martin Edsman. This book, based on radio lectures, offers a synthesis of mysticism from various traditions, including Zen Buddhism and Christian perspectives. The reviewer praises Edsman's objective approach and his attempt to systematize the study of mystical phenomena.

• "Självanalys" (Self-Analysis) by Karen Horney. This book, a Swedish edition of Horney's work, provides guidance on analyzing neurotic defense mechanisms without a therapist. The reviewer finds it informative but criticizes its perceived one-sidedness and lack of consideration for biological factors in depression, suggesting it is more suited for analytically experienced individuals.

• "Kyrkorevolution" (Church Revolution) by Arne Lindgren. Lindgren argues that the current Swedish state church has strayed from its apostolic roots. He advocates for a "church of deeds" based on love for God and humanity, rather than dogma, and criticizes the doctrine of salvation by faith alone. The book is directed towards the Gothenburg Workers' Commune.

Other Sections

• BREV (Letters): This section includes information on obtaining UFO films and a request from H. Herbert of the Journal of Paraphysics for Swedish reports on poltergeists or UFOs.
• VÄDJAN FRÅN EN CANCER-SJUK (A Plea from a Cancer Patient): A brief mention of actor William Talman's anti-smoking campaign before his death from lung cancer.
• From Sökaren's Bookstore: Advertisements for books like "Jordskred?" by Birgit Lange and "Vår Tids Mirakler" (Miracles of Our Time), as well as "Eviga Sanningar" by William Naylor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that lie outside mainstream scientific or societal acceptance, including UFOs, spiritualism, and ghost stories. There is an openness to unconventional explanations and a willingness to question established norms, particularly in the realms of religion and psychology. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and investigation into the unexplained, with a particular interest in evidence and reports from Sweden and abroad. The inclusion of scientific discussions, like superconductivity, suggests an attempt to bridge the gap between the paranormal and scientific inquiry, even if speculative. The poetry and book reviews add a cultural and intellectual dimension, often touching on existential or psychological themes.