Sokaren - 1975 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR2
Volume: 1975
Date: 1975

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1975, presents a diverse range of articles focusing on paranormal phenomena, scientific skepticism, and alternative worldviews. The cover prominently features Uri Geller under the headline "Uri Geller – lurade han forskarna?" (Uri Geller – did he fool the researchers?), indicating a critical examination of his purported psychic abilities and the scientific experiments conducted on him.

Uri Geller: Deception or Genuine Phenomena?

The lead article delves into the controversy surrounding Uri Geller, referencing a report published in "Nature" by researchers Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff. The article highlights "Nature's" editorial stance, acknowledging the potential for public debate and the confirmation of prior beliefs for some, while others might dismiss the findings as unscientific. The editorial suggests that a critical examination of well-conducted paranormal research is warranted for those who remain undecided.

Further articles explore the criticisms leveled against Geller, particularly by Joseph Hanlon, who suggests that Geller may have deceived researchers. The text discusses Hanlon's arguments, including the claim that Geller avoided certain types of tests and that the film evidence presented showed only the weakest examples of his abilities. The article also touches upon the psychological aspects of parapsychological research, suggesting that a critical or negative atmosphere in a laboratory can hinder psychic phenomena. It notes that Geller has been criticized for refusing to be studied by professional magicians, fearing exposure, and that parapsychologists often believe the laboratory atmosphere is crucial for successful experiments.

Nils-Olof Jacobson contributes an article discussing Andrija Puharich and his book "Mysteriet Uri Geller" (The Uri Geller Mystery). Puharich, a medical doctor and inventor, has dedicated himself to parapsychological research. The article details Puharich's claims of communication with extraterrestrial beings through electronic methods, involving a voice that allegedly revealed itself as a force from outer space. Puharich's book reportedly describes various phenomena attributed to Uri Geller, including telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis, such as bending metal and affecting electronic devices.

The Challenge of Repeatable Experiments in Parapsychology

Nils Wiklund's article, "DET UPPREPBARA EXPERIMENTET" (The Repeatable Experiment), addresses the debate on the necessity of repeatable experiments in parapsychology. Wiklund critiques Rolf Ejvegård's assertion that repeatable experiments are alien to parapsychology, arguing that the demand for such experiments is standard in scientific inquiry and that their successful demonstration would lead to wider acceptance of psi phenomena.

Wiklund discusses the difficulties in establishing repeatable experiments in parapsychology, acknowledging that phenomena might be influenced by the subject's psychological state. He also touches upon the issue of fraud, noting that while Ejvegård suggests the demand for repeatability might tempt researchers to cheat, Wiklund argues the opposite: repeatable experiments are the surest way to eliminate fraud concerns. He points out that if a result cannot be replicated by other researchers, it loses interest, thus acting as a natural check on fraudulent claims.

The article also examines the nature of scientific truth and evidence, questioning the criteria for what constitutes truth and how scientific disciplines are distinguished. It highlights that while some phenomena, like star explosions or earthquakes, are not repeatable, their existence is generally accepted. Parapsychology, however, faces skepticism due to the lack of consistently repeatable results.

Esperanto: A Bridge to International Understanding?

Another section explores the potential of Esperanto as an international language. The article interviews Franko Luin, vice chairman of the Swedish Esperanto Federation. Luin discusses the challenges of English as a global language, noting its limitations among the general population. He advocates for Esperanto as an easy-to-learn, logical language designed for international communication, highlighting its simple grammar and phonetic spelling. Luin explains that Esperanto's vocabulary is largely derived from Latin roots, making it melodious like Italian. He estimates around 2,000 organized Esperantists in Sweden and 40,000-50,000 worldwide, with growing interest in Eastern Europe.

The Occult Wave in Sweden

The magazine features a significant section on the growing interest in occultism and related literature in Sweden, termed the "ockulta vågen" (occult wave). Several publishers discuss their role in this trend:

• Larson: Publisher Robert Larson views the term "occult wave" as a cliché, believing Sweden has been underserved by such literature. He emphasizes that his publishing house has a broader scope than just occult books and aims to provide readers with impulses towards a deeper understanding of life and reality beyond the material world.
• Nybloms: Carl-G. Swanström, who publishes primarily occult books, notes a steady demand, with some titles selling well and requiring reprints. He acknowledges the market is competitive but believes well-written books in the genre can still succeed.
• Zindermans: Sune Stigsjöö, head of Zindermans, asserts that parapsychological phenomena are a reality, based on his own investigations. He highlights the success of Nils-Olof Jacobson's book "Liv efter döden?" (Life After Death?), which has achieved international recognition and translation into numerous languages.
• Berghs: Sven-Erik Bergh of Berghs Förlag points to Erich von Däniken's books as major bestsellers, attributing their success to a growing public interest in the possibility of extraterrestrial life and phenomena that challenge conventional explanations. He defends his publishing choices, stating they are not purely speculative but cater to a genuine public curiosity.
• Lindqvists: Jörgen Peterzén from Lindqvists, a newer entrant into occult publishing, aims to provide quality books that explore the boundaries of knowledge and offer a new worldview. He emphasizes critical analysis and avoids sensationalism.

The section also includes discussions on how Swedish newspapers and libraries handle occult literature. Cultural editors from Dagens Nyheter and Expressen express a cautious and often skeptical approach, preferring to have critics review these books rather than subject matter experts. Libraries, however, are noted to be purchasing a significant number of these books, particularly those offering descriptive rather than purely dogmatic content.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of evidence, the boundaries of scientific understanding, and the growing public fascination with the paranormal and the unexplained. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of critical inquiry, presenting different viewpoints on controversial topics like Uri Geller's abilities and the validity of parapsychological research. While acknowledging the public's interest in occultism, the editorial tone often leans towards a skeptical yet open-minded examination, encouraging readers to engage critically with the material presented. The inclusion of articles on Esperanto and the philosophical questions surrounding truth and reality suggest a broader interest in alternative perspectives and the search for meaning beyond conventional frameworks.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 2
Volume: 1975
Date: 1975
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

"Vattenfallet" by Dora Scarlett

The issue opens with a narrative by Dora Scarlett titled "Vattenfallet" (The Waterfall). The story follows an English woman, Mrs. Fletcher, on a visit to a beautiful and wild location in India. She encounters a spiritual retreat centered around a waterfall, where a "Master" resides. A sign indicates that disciples are raising funds to build him a more suitable dwelling. Mrs. Fletcher observes the humble abode and a nearby temple. She meets a man, presumably a disciple, who is indifferent to her presence. Later, she witnesses a religious ceremony at the temple involving a family seeking a child. Mrs. Fletcher, who is a school principal, offers to visit the family and suggests they seek medical help at a nearby clinic. The family, however, believes their issue is due to past sins and that the waterfall can provide a solution. The story then shifts to the family's village, where Mrs. Fletcher is welcomed and offered coffee. She proposes that the daughter visit the clinic, and the family agrees after consulting the daughter's husband. The narrative follows the daughter to a state-run clinic where she is examined by a doctor and a nurse. The doctor believes a minor operation is needed and suggests keeping the daughter for a few days.

Health and Vegetarianism

Several sections discuss health and ethical considerations related to diet. "Hälsa" is praised as a cultural magazine promoting a lacto-vegetarian diet and animal welfare. "Djurfront" advocates for vegetarianism based on ethical grounds, criticizing the suffering inflicted on animals in factory farming and the waste of protein. The magazine "Miljö o Framtid" highlights concerns about the declining public health despite high healthcare spending, attributing it to a focus on treating illness rather than prevention. It also plans to examine the influence of large pharmaceutical companies on Swedish healthcare policy.

Amnesty and Human Rights

A section from "Amnesty-Bulletinen" features a powerful and harrowing account titled "Jag har sett torterarens ansikte..." (I have seen the torturer's face...). The author, Georgios Mangakis, describes the psychological and physical toll of torture, emphasizing the dehumanizing effect on both the victim and the torturer. The text reflects on the loss of joy and the suffering of those who witness their children's pain.

Political and Ideological Contrasts

Two quotes present contrasting political viewpoints. Fidel Castro states that countries must choose between capitalism/imperialism and anti-imperialism/socialism, with no middle ground. Björn Ahlander criticizes the Soviet Union and other socialist states for using propaganda and censorship to control information, contrasting this with Western democratic countries.

Parapsychology and Spiritualism

Nils Wiklund discusses the challenges of replicating parapsychological experiments, likening the search for exact reproducibility to chasing a mirage. He notes that psi phenomena fluctuate and are influenced by the experimenter's attitude. The article "SM-REPLIK" touches upon the difficulty of achieving consistent results in clairvoyance and precognition experiments.

"Per Ragnar: Reflexioner" reflects on the passing of friends and the bishop Sigfrid Fjellander, emphasizing themes of life, death, and spiritual comfort. The reflection highlights the bishop's belief in a bright afterlife and the importance of light over darkness in funeral services.

Vedanta and Yoga

"LARZOVEDANTA" features an interview with Swami Ritajananda, a leader from the Sri Ramakrishna Centre in France. He explains Vedanta as a philosophy based on insight, with yoga as the means to experience it. He emphasizes the concept of Atman (the inner self) being eternally free, but the mind, influenced by habits, enslaves individuals. Meditation and self-control are presented as crucial for achieving inner freedom and experiencing the unity of all existence. Swami Ritajananda clarifies that Vedanta does not deny the reality of the world but sees it as a manifestation of Brahman, the ultimate reality. He discusses the concept of Avatars (divine incarnations) and the universality of spiritual paths, citing Sri Ramakrishna's acceptance of various religions.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are included:

• "SVÅR KONST ATT DÖ PÅ RÄTT SÄTT" (The Difficult Art of Dying Well) reviews "Bardo Thödol," the Tibetan Book of the Dead, translated by Roland Adlerberth. The review highlights its insights into death, the afterlife, and rebirth, and its emphasis on accepting death with a calm mind.
• "HÄXOR OCH SPOKEN UNDER 'KIRURGENS' KNIV" (Witches and Ghosts Under the 'Surgeon's' Knife) reviews Daniel Cohen's book "Voodoo, häxor och djävulsdyrkan" (Voodoo, Witches, and Devil Worship). The review praises Cohen's critical examination of various occult movements, including voodoo and witchcraft, and his debunking of sensationalist claims.

Personal Ads and Services

The magazine includes a section for personal ads, seeking contacts for various interests such as music, spirituality, vegetarianism, and ufology. Services like astrological analyses, mediumship, and book sales are also advertised.

Other Articles

• "I MALMÖ" describes a Buddhist interest group in Malmö.
• "SIKTA HÖGT" (Aim High) promotes a self-improvement program.
• "VANDRARE MELLAN TVA VÄRLDAR" (Wanderer Between Two Worlds) discusses the mediumistic experiences of Ena Twigg, detailing her premonitions and spiritual communications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, Eastern philosophies (Vedanta, Yoga, Buddhism), parapsychology, and the search for meaning. There is a strong emphasis on ethical living, vegetarianism, and animal welfare. The editorial stance, as expressed in the "SM: ATT LYSSNA" section, advocates for open-mindedness, the value of diverse opinions, and the importance of critical thinking within a democratic framework. The magazine encourages readers to engage with different viewpoints, even those that challenge conventional beliefs, and to strive for a more compassionate and understanding society.