Sokaren - 1977 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR2
Year: 1977
Price: 6:00 incl. moms

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1977, delves into a variety of topics including parapsychology, religion, astrology, and meditation. The cover prominently features parapsychologist William G. Roll, who researches the survival of consciousness after death, with a brief introduction to his work and a mention of his lecture in Stockholm.

Articles and Interviews

Parapsychology and the Afterlife: An Interview with William G. Roll

The magazine features an extensive interview with William G. Roll, an American parapsychologist specializing in the survival of consciousness after death. Roll, a project leader at the Psychical Research Foundation in Durham, North Carolina, discusses his research, which suggests that human consciousness might not be an isolated entity but rather part of a larger psychic field connecting individuals. He explores the concept of 'psi' phenomena, the challenges of interpreting mediumistic communications, and the potential for out-of-body experiences. Roll also touches upon the work of Professor Stevenson on reincarnation-type cases, highlighting the geographical correlations found in such instances and suggesting a link to psychometry. He emphasizes that parapsychology is still developing its methodology and that the researcher's own influence on experiments is a significant factor. Future research plans include studying the dying process and the experiences associated with it.

Critique of Christian Faith: Björn Sahlin's "SLÄNG KATEKESEN!"

Björn Sahlin offers a critical review of a new book, 'Kyrkans tro för samtidens människor' (The Church's Faith for Contemporary People), by Bishop Gert Borgenstierna. Sahlin argues that the book, while attempting to simplify Christian doctrine, lacks clarity and relies on logical inconsistencies and circular reasoning, particularly concerning the authority of the Bible. He questions the validity of traditional Christian tenets like the Trinity, the resurrection, and the concept of God as creator, suggesting that these are problematic for modern individuals. Sahlin also criticizes Borgenstierna's negative view of the world and other religions, advocating for a more open and less dogmatic approach to faith.

The New Astrology: Sven Rosén on Cosmobiology

Sven Rosén explores the emerging field of cosmobiology, which he describes as a modern reinterpretation of astrology based on statistical research. He highlights the work of French psychologist and statistician Michel Gauquelin, who found significant correlations between planetary positions at birth and the professions of individuals. Gauquelin's research, based on large datasets, suggests that certain planetary positions at the time of birth are statistically linked to success in specific fields, such as Mars with scientists and athletes, Jupiter with actors and politicians, and Saturn with scientists. Rosén notes that while Gauquelin himself was hesitant to embrace traditional astrology, his findings lend statistical weight to some of its core ideas. The article discusses Gauquelin's 'cosmic heredity' hypothesis as a potential explanation for these correlations, suggesting that the timing of birth might be influenced by planetary 'clocks' that are inherited.

Meditation and Inner Peace: An Interview with Hans Granqvist

Hans Granqvist, an expert on China and meditation, shares his experiences and insights in an interview. He discusses his involvement in a discussion group in Hong Kong that explored meditation and parapsychological phenomena. Granqvist, who learned Transcendental Meditation (TM), emphasizes its benefits in developing intuition, relieving stress, and fostering self-awareness. He argues that meditation should complement, not replace, engagement with the world. Granqvist also touches upon the concept of a collective unconscious and the potential for a sense of unity with all things through deep meditation. He clarifies his own worldview as being somewhere between atheism and agnosticism, with a growing recognition of a 'religious need.'

Other Content

The issue also includes a section titled 'Per Ragnar: Reflexioner' featuring New Year's wishes from notable figures like Jimmy Carter, Muhammad Ali, Ingmar Bergman, and Queen Silvia. There is also a discussion on Buddhist philosophy, focusing on Shankara and Advaita Vedanta, and a review of books on various religious movements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics related to the paranormal, spirituality, and alternative belief systems, often with a critical yet open-minded approach. There is a clear interest in scientific methodologies applied to these fields, as seen in the articles on parapsychology and cosmobiology. The editorial stance appears to encourage critical thinking and open dialogue, as evidenced by the critique of religious dogma and the exploration of diverse spiritual paths. The magazine seems to aim at providing a platform for discussions on subjects that lie outside mainstream scientific and religious discourse.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1977, delves into the complex field of parapsychology, defining it as the scientific study of paranormal phenomena. The magazine presents a diverse range of articles, from reports on international conferences and book reviews to explorations of spiritual movements and personal reflections.

Parapsychology: A Scientific Pursuit

The cover story, "PARAPSYKOLOGI - vad är det?" (Parapsychology - what is it?), clarifies that parapsychology is a scientific discipline, distinct from belief systems or occult practices. It defines the field through the words of experts like Dr. Nils-Olof Jacobson and Professor Harald Schjelderup, who describe it as the study of psychic phenomena that lie outside conventional psychology, such as ESP (extrasensory perception) and PK (psychokinesis). The article emphasizes that parapsychologists are scientists seeking knowledge, not individuals trying to prove the existence of an afterlife or supernatural realms.

Conference Report: World Crises and Fullness of Life

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a report by Siri Malmberg on a conference held in October 1976 at the Nya Tidens center, Findhorn Foundation, in Scotland. The conference, themed "World Crises and the Fullness of Life," brought together 150 participants from around the globe. The report highlights key viewpoints presented by speakers, emphasizing that current world crises are part of planetary evolution, requiring openness to new ideas and a shift in human consciousness. It stresses the importance of self-understanding, improved communication, and recognizing the interconnectedness of all life. The concept of a "New Consciousness" and a "planetary consciousness" is explored, suggesting that individuals attuned to this new awareness form the organism and vision of the New Age.

Discussions within smaller groups revealed that while some participants found the week challenging, others experienced profound inner transformation and a deeper understanding of the world's issues, seeing them as rooted in more than just political or economic factors. One group described the experience as a "change in the air" at Findhorn, leading to a sense of inner change that would resonate globally.

Book Reviews and Cultural Commentary

The issue features several book reviews, offering insights into various topics:

• "Puthoff och Targ svarar Randi": This section addresses criticisms by illusionist James Randi regarding research into Uri Geller's abilities, with the SRI researchers defending their methodology and findings.
• "Dig Betros Österns vishet": A critical review of a book on Eastern wisdom, with the Swedish Tibet Committee stating they had not read the book but questioning the existence of ancient Tibetan manuscripts.
• "UTLÄNDSK BOKVANDRING MED ROLAND ADLERBERTH": Roland Adlerberth reviews several books on the Bermuda Triangle, including works by John Wallace Spencer, Adi-Kent Thomas Jeffrey, and Charles Berlitz, critically examining their claims and scientific basis. He also reviews Donald E. Keyhoe's "Aliens from Space...", discussing UFO research and alleged government cover-ups.
• "Strange Sects and Cults" by Egon Larsen: Reviewed as an interesting and well-written book about various religious sects and cults worldwide, presented without ridicule.
• "Aus dem Jenseits zurück" by Jean-Baptiste Delacour: A review of a book presenting accounts of near-death experiences and what people encountered on "the other side."
• "Spindrift" by Jan Bryant Bartell: A review of a chilling true ghost story about a woman's experiences with paranormal phenomena.
• Books by Thaning & Appel: Mention of works by J.G. Bennett, J.G. Chatterji, and John C. Lilly, focusing on Gurdjieff, Indian wisdom, and consciousness exploration.
• "EN BOK OM TM" by Örjan Björkhem: A critical review of a book about Transcendental Meditation (TM), questioning its claims and the movement's approach, particularly its secularization of religious concepts and its underestimation of evil.
• "LITEN MEDITATIONSBOK" by Sten Rodhe: A review of a small book offering guidance on Christian meditation, exploring its potential to deepen spiritual experience.
• "BERMUDA-TRIANGELN" by Charles Berlitz: A critical review of Berlitz's book on the Bermuda Triangle, questioning its sensationalism and lack of rigorous research, while acknowledging its appeal to science fiction enthusiasts.
• "HEDENIUS I URVAL": A review of a collection of essays and speeches by Ingemar Hedenius, praising his clear writing and logical arguments but noting his critical stance towards theology and his polemical style.

Other Articles and Features

• "Världskriser och livets fullhet": This section, likely related to the Findhorn conference, presents notes on various viewpoints discussed, touching upon planetary evolution, human responsibility, and the concept of a new consciousness.
• "SKRATTET" by Bertil Nilsson: An exploration of the science of laughter and humor, drawing on research and personal reflection, and recommending Edmund Bergler's book "Skrattet och sinnet för humor."
• "AFORISTISK ETIK": A collection of aphorisms and short quotes on various life philosophies, ethics, and human nature.
• "När du är död...": A reflection on the experience of dying, featuring a quote from Carl Gustav Jung.
• "FÅR UFO-FORSKNINGEN ETT GENOMBROTT I ÅR?": An announcement for "GICOFF-Information," a publication for UFO research enthusiasts, promising insights into cases like Pascagoula and new photographic evidence.
• "PARAPSYKOLOGI - vad är det?": The main article defining parapsychology and its scientific scope, differentiating it from religious or spiritual beliefs.
• "En ny astrologi" by Sven Rosén: A brief mention of an article on astrology.
• "Världskriser och livets fullhet" by Siri Malmberg: This appears to be the main article detailing the Findhorn conference.
• "Puthoff och Targ svarar Randi": A continuation of the discussion about Uri Geller's abilities and the research conducted.
• "Utländsk bokvandring med Roland Adlerberth": A section featuring book reviews by Roland Adlerberth.
• "Olle Wedholm: Aforistisk etik": An article on aphorisms and ethics.
• "Bertil Nilsson: Skrattet": An article on laughter and humor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, spirituality, and the human condition. There is a clear emphasis on critical inquiry, whether examining parapsychological research, debunking sensational claims about phenomena like the Bermuda Triangle, or reviewing books on diverse spiritual and philosophical topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards paranormal and spiritual phenomena, but with a strong preference for scientific rigor and well-documented evidence, as seen in the critical reviews of less substantiated claims. The magazine also champions the idea of personal growth, self-understanding, and the search for meaning in a complex world, as exemplified by the coverage of the Findhorn conference and discussions on meditation and consciousness.