Sokaren - 1975 No 07

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 7
Date: 1975

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1975, focuses on "New Frontiers of Research" and presents a diverse range of articles exploring scientific, philosophical, and spiritual themes.

Interview with Professor Alister Hardy: "New Frontiers of Research"

The lead article features an interview with Professor Alister Hardy, a leading biologist in England and now retired, who heads a research group at Manchester College in Oxford. This group studies religious experiences, following in the footsteps of William James. Hardy expresses his belief that parapsychological research, if accepted by the scientific world, will eventually lead to the recognition that consciousness is not purely a physical or electrochemical phenomenon, but can be independent of the brain's physical-chemical mechanisms. He posits that while the physical aspects of humans and animals can be explained by physical and chemical terms, the mental processes, particularly consciousness, belong to separate orders of nature, though closely linked to the brain.

Scientology: A Critical Examination

The magazine includes a significant section on Scientology. One article details a visit to the Scientology Church in Stockholm, describing the personality test administered to the author. The test, which covers self-perception, is presented as a diagnostic tool, though the author expresses skepticism about its interpretation and the claim that it is an Oxford-developed test.

Another article, "Intervju med Gloria och Christer Montén," features an interview with Scientology pastors Christer and Gloria Montén. They explain that Scientology has been organized as a church since its founding in 1954, evolving from L. Ron Hubbard's work on dianetics. They describe Scientology as a non-denominational religion that combines religious belief with practical application, aiming to help individuals achieve greater self-awareness and a closer connection to God. They discuss the eight dynamics (self, family, groups, humanity, life forms, the physical universe, the spiritual universe, and God) as central to their philosophy and explain their eight-pointed cross symbol. They also touch upon the concept of 'clear' as a state of spiritual awareness free from limitations, and the practice of auditing, a form of spiritual counseling aided by the E-meter.

Buddhist Perspective on Evolution and Life

An article titled "MÄNNISKAN I BUDDHISTISKT PERSPEKTIV" by Siripelle Karunaratne J. A. examines the concept of evolution from a Buddhist viewpoint. It questions the purely materialistic explanation of life's origins and development, suggesting that a driving forces beyond mere survival, such as the pursuit of pleasure and sensory experience, play a significant role. The author introduces the Buddhist concept of 'tanha' (thirst or craving) as the impulse behind life and the cyclical nature of existence, rejecting the idea of a creator God or a permanent soul. The article discusses the dynamic nature of the universe and the interconnectedness of mind and matter.

Abraham Maslow: Mystic and Scientist

Jan Bärmark writes about Abraham Maslow, the renowned psychologist, highlighting the duality of his work as both a scientist and a mystic. Maslow's theories on motivation and self-actualization are discussed, along with his interest in 'peak experiences' – profound moments of heightened awareness and meaning. Bärmark notes Maslow's view that religion and science are not mutually exclusive but can complement each other, and that peak experiences can be seen as a common core to religious phenomena.

Future Society and Architecture

The "Fria Arkitekturverkstaden" (Free Architecture Workshop) in Lund is presented as a group working towards a vision of a future society adapted to resource scarcity. They advocate for a shift from industrial exploitation to a symbiotic relationship with nature, emphasizing ecological balance, global solidarity, and a more equitable distribution of resources. The article discusses the concept of 'basbehov' (basic needs) and 'skälig konsumtion' (reasonable consumption), critiquing current economic indicators like GDP. It proposes a future society based on self-sufficient communities, sustainable transport, and the use of local, durable materials in architecture.

Prophecies and UFOs

An article titled "PHILIP KLASS OCH PASCAGOULA-HÄNDELSEN" critically examines the Pascagoula UFO incident of 1973. Philip Klass, an electrical engineer and UFO skeptic, argues that many UFO sightings are natural atmospheric phenomena like ball lightning. He analyzes the Pascagoula case, questioning the credibility of witness Charles Hickson due to inconsistencies in his account and the alleged use of an unqualified polygraph operator. Klass maintains that UFOs are not alien spacecraft.

Another section discusses the prophecies of Nostradamus and Edgar Cayce. It contrasts Nostradamus's historical-philosophical approach, which interprets past events to predict the future, with Cayce's more direct, often apocalyptic, predictions of global cataclysms and societal transformation. The article notes the tendency for interpreters to find 'fulfillment' for prophecies in various historical and future events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of science, spirituality, and the human condition. There's a recurring theme of questioning established paradigms, whether in science (evolution, consciousness), religion (Scientology, Buddhism), or societal structures (futurology, ecology). The magazine appears to encourage critical thinking and an open-minded approach to phenomena that lie beyond conventional scientific understanding, while also presenting skeptical viewpoints. The editorial stance seems to be one of exploring diverse perspectives on the future of humanity, consciousness, and society, without necessarily endorsing any single viewpoint.

This issue of Sökaren (The Seeker), dated 1975, delves into a range of esoteric, spiritual, and parapsychological topics, reflecting a growing interest in alternative worldviews and phenomena. The cover prominently features the title "SM: Hyllning till hans djävlighet satan" (SM: A Tribute to His Devilishness Satan), suggesting a provocative exploration of darker spiritual themes, alongside a headline about Jeane Dixon's prophecies.

Key Articles and Features

Prophecies and Future Visions

The magazine dedicates significant space to the predictions of prominent seers. Jeane Dixon, a renowned American psychic, is extensively quoted regarding her forecasts for the future. These include predictions of Soviet imperialism, a war between the Soviet Union and China with US involvement, a comet impact in 1985, and natural disasters and invasions in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The article also notes the influence of other researchers like H. C. Roberts on interpreting Nostradamus's prophecies, and mentions Cheiro and his predictions. A particularly intriguing prophecy concerns a 'savior' figure born in Egypt in 1962, who was later reinterpreted by Dixon as the Antichrist.

Edgar Cayce, another influential psychic, is also mentioned in relation to his predictions, particularly concerning geological events like earthquakes and the potential sinking of California. The article highlights the commercialization of such predictions, referencing a book about California's predicted doom.

Psychic Surgery

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the controversial topic of psychic surgery. The article discusses the phenomenon, presenting cases from healers like José Arigo in Brazil and Tony Agpaoa in the Philippines. It notes investigations by journalists and doctors, some of whom found evidence of deception (e.g., 'stones' being ordinary rocks, or claimed gallstones still being present in patients). However, the article also acknowledges that some individuals, like Björn Kläppe and Leif Olsson, have reported genuine experiences with psychic healers, suggesting the possibility of extraordinary phenomena even if outright fraud is common. The Swedish TV program "Kvällsöppet" is mentioned for its coverage of 'healing,' which the article suggests may be a form of psychic surgery.

Spiritual Philosophies and Practices

Anthroposophy, founded by Rudolf Steiner, is presented as a spiritual science that seeks to bridge the gap between materialism and spirituality. The article explains Steiner's view that the spiritual world permeates the material world and can be scientifically explored through expanded consciousness and meditation. It highlights Steiner's belief in reincarnation and the spiritual evolution of humanity, contrasting his approach with conventional religion and science. The book "Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy" by A. P. Shepherd is recommended as an introduction.

Paul Brunton, an author known for his explorations of Eastern spirituality, is featured through a review of his book "Till Indien" (To India). The review emphasizes Brunton's journey to India in search of yogic knowledge and his encounters with spiritual figures like Meher Baba and Ramana Maharshi. Brunton's humility and his focus on discovering the spiritual self are highlighted.

Meditation is explored through a review of Bernhard Hegardt's book "Meditation i öster- och västerland" (Meditation in East and West). While acknowledging some new material, the review is critical of Hegardt's accuracy, particularly his misinterpretations of C. G. Jung and his use of terminology. The review contrasts Hegardt's work with existing Swedish books on meditation and discusses various meditation techniques, including Zen, mandala meditation, and Loyola's spiritual exercises.

Erich Fromm's book "Det glömda språket" (The Forgotten Language) is reviewed, focusing on his interpretation of dreams, myths, and fairy tales through the lens of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung. Fromm's emphasis on symbols, daily events, and the potential for precognition in dreams is discussed.

Other Topics

"Borddans" (Table Dancing) is explored through the case of medium Kathleen Goligher, whose séances involved tables levitating and moving. The article references research by Dr. William J. Crawford and others, who documented these phenomena, suggesting the involvement of 'ectoplasm' and ruling out simple trickery in some instances.

Walter Ljungquist's novels "Paula" and "I stormen" are reviewed by Birgit Cars, who praises his evocative descriptions of nature and his exploration of human consciousness, linking his work to anthroposophical ideas.

Scientology is briefly mentioned in relation to an interview with Gloria and Christer Montén.

UFOs are touched upon in the context of Philip Klass and the Pascagoula incident.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine's overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry into phenomena that lie outside conventional scientific and religious paradigms. There is a clear interest in prophecy, psychic abilities, alternative spiritualities, and the exploration of consciousness. The critical reviews, however, suggest a discerning approach, differentiating between genuine phenomena and potential fraud or misinterpretation. The provocative cover title, "Hyllning till hans djävlighet satan," indicates a willingness to explore even darker or more unconventional aspects of spirituality, framing Satan as a figure representing self-interest, freedom from conventional morality, and a rejection of traditional religious constraints. The editorial content consistently promotes the idea of seeking deeper truths beyond the material world and encourages readers to engage in personal exploration and critical thinking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren are prophecy, psychic phenomena, spiritual exploration, and alternative worldviews. The magazine exhibits a consistent interest in figures like Jeane Dixon, Edgar Cayce, and Rudolf Steiner, suggesting a focus on predictive abilities, spiritual science, and esoteric knowledge. The critical yet open approach to topics like psychic surgery and mediumship indicates an editorial stance that encourages investigation while remaining aware of potential deception. The inclusion of a 'tribute to Satan' suggests a willingness to explore even the more unconventional or 'darker' aspects of spirituality, framing it within a context of personal freedom and rejection of societal norms. The magazine aims to provide a platform for diverse opinions on life philosophies and spiritual questions, encouraging readers to seek their own understanding beyond mainstream beliefs.