Sokaren - 1979 No 10

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR10
Date: 1979
Price: 7:00 incl. moms

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1979, offers a diverse range of articles, from personal philosophies and health practices to historical figures and the complex topic of UFO phenomena.

Ulla Sallert: Astrology and Fasting

The cover story features actress and author Ulla Sallert, who discusses her views on astrology and fasting. Sallert believes astrology aids in understanding oneself and others, fostering self-awareness and improving relationships. She advocates for vegetarianism and fasting as means to maintain health. The article, reported by Åsa Freij, delves into Sallert's personal journey, her discovery of fasting and vegetarianism about 10 years prior, and how these practices have influenced her life and interests. She argues that learning astrology should be a personal responsibility to better understand oneself and others, potentially improving many human relationships and reducing unnecessary conflicts.

Sallert also touches upon the importance of understanding individual 'Venus' placements in relationships to navigate differing emotional needs and expressions. She highlights how astrological insights can help parents understand their children better, avoiding misguided attempts to force children into unsuitable molds. Sallert emphasizes that astrology does not lock individuals into a predetermined pattern but rather helps them recognize their weaknesses and strengths, leading to greater freedom and self-mastery. She clarifies that she does not practice astrology for others but advocates for its potential to foster understanding and tolerance.

Sallert shares her personal experience with fasting, having fasted 17 times, each experience being significant and contributing to her feeling healthier, younger, and calmer. She expresses hope that her new book on fasting might inspire even a single rheumatic patient to find relief. She quotes, "The disease that cannot be healed by fasting cannot be healed by anything else!" and "Fasting is the world's best remedy."

Themis Forlag: A Haven for Herbs and Natural Medicine in Norway

Per Sellmann reports on Themis Forlag, a Norwegian publisher and bookstore specializing in natural medicine, herbs, and alternative health practices. Themis Forlag aims to provide "justice" for these often-overlooked methods. Founded in 1977, the company has expanded its operations to include printing and publishing, with plans for books on food drying, acupuncture, homeopathy, and natural medicine. Themis Forlag also organizes courses and seminars, featuring speakers like Bernard Jensen and doctors Jülke, Juneby, and Aly. Øivinn Øi, one of the founders, is involved in iridology, while Svein Hjelmås manages the business aspects. The article notes their efforts to live frugally and reinvest profits back into the business, emphasizing their goal to reach a wider audience and promote a holistic approach to life and health.

Xenophanes: A Pioneer of Natural Philosophy and Monotheism

Rolf Ejvegård explores the life and philosophy of Xenophanes (c. 562-470 BC), a pre-Socratic Greek philosopher. Initially a natural philosopher influenced by the Milesian school, Xenophanes developed theories on cyclical world processes and the origin of land from the sea, supported by fossil evidence. He is credited with providing the first scientifically accurate meteorological description of rain. However, Xenophanes is most renowned for his critique of polytheism and his development of monotheistic and pantheistic ideas. He argued that there could only be one all-powerful god, who was spherical and spiritual in nature. He also observed that humans tend to depict gods in their own image, suggesting that if horses could draw, they would depict horse-like gods. Xenophanes' ideas laid the groundwork for the Eleatic school of philosophy.

William James: The Psychology of Human Potential

Gustaf Lundgren reviews William James's influential book "The Energies of Men" (originally "The Energies of Men," translated as "Människans dolda krafter" in Swedish). Lundgren highlights James as a "philosopher of life's joy" whose work emphasizes the vast, untapped potential within individuals. James's personal journey, including a severe spiritual crisis, informed his understanding of human resilience and transformation. He distinguished between the "once-born" (naturally happy) and the "twice-born" (those who achieve harmony through a process of healing). The article discusses James's exploration of "psychical research" and his belief in a "cosmic consciousness" connecting individuals. James's work is presented as a source of inspiration for unlocking inner strengths and overcoming limitations, advocating for active engagement with life and the liberation of psychic energy.

J. Allen Hynek: The Transformation of a UFO Skeptic

Philip Klass profiles Professor J. Allen Hynek, a prominent figure in UFO research. Klass traces Hynek's career from his early skepticism as a consultant for the US Air Force's Project Blue Book to his later embrace of UFO phenomena as a subject worthy of serious study. Hynek's shift in perspective is detailed, including his involvement in investigating the Socorro, New Mexico, incident and his subsequent role in the establishment of the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS). The article discusses the controversy surrounding the University of Colorado's UFO study (the Condon Report) and Hynek's evolving views on the nature of UFOs, moving away from the simple extraterrestrial hypothesis towards more complex explanations involving atmospheric phenomena and psychological factors. Hynek's influence on the UFO community and his role in making UFO research more 'respectable' are highlighted.

Martinus Cosmology: The New Humanity

Mogens Möller from the Martinus Institute in Copenhagen presents the core ideas of Martinus's cosmology, focusing on the concept of the "new humanity." Möller explains that humans are not yet fully realized beings but are evolving from their animalistic instincts towards a higher consciousness. He discusses the historical misuse of religion and the ongoing search for an ideal society. According to Martinus cosmology, Jesus is seen as a human with cosmic consciousness, a state to which all humanity can aspire. The goal is to balance intellect and emotions, moving beyond mere belief to direct experience of truth. Möller emphasizes that individuals create their own destiny and that of the Earth through their actions and choices, working towards a true brotherhood.

Martinus Thomsen, the founder of this philosophy, is described as a prolific writer who experienced a cosmic consciousness at age 30. His major work, "Livets bok" (The Book of Life), is a comprehensive exploration of his ideas.

Other Articles

The issue also includes a philosophical discussion on Xenophanes, a review of William James's work, and a panel discussion on "Towards a New Spirituality?" featuring prominent figures like Ingmar Ström and Ingmar Bergman, which explored the challenges and potential of contemporary spiritual movements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of self-discovery, alternative health practices, philosophical inquiry, and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears open to exploring diverse perspectives, from spiritual and psychological insights to the scientific investigation of UFOs, while maintaining a critical yet curious approach. There is an underlying emphasis on personal growth, understanding, and the search for deeper meaning in life.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: December '79
Date: December 1979
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated December 1979, presents a diverse collection of articles exploring esoteric, philosophical, and speculative themes. The cover prominently features an article titled "Utöver tidens gräns" (Beyond the limits of time) by Olle Wedholm, focusing on the spiritualist Poul Goos and his work. Another significant piece is "Meditation på Liv" (Meditation on Life) by N. Sri Ram, offering guidance on contemplative practices.

Poul Goos and Spiritualism

The article by Olle Wedholm recounts a personal encounter with a medium who claimed to be in contact with the deceased spiritualist Poul Goos. The medium conveyed messages from Goos, including the number of books the author owned by him and a suggestion to read a specific text. The article details Poul Goos's background as a philosopher and researcher in parapsychology, his work with George de la Warr's principles, and his contributions to publications like "Sökaren." It also lists some of his published works in Swedish and Danish.

Future Catastrophes and Scientific Speculation

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to dire predictions about the future. Sven Rosén's article "ELÄNDES ELÄNDEa" (Miserable Misery) explores fears of impending global catastrophes, citing scientific speculation about planetary alignments, comets (like Halley's Comet), and their potential impact on Earth's rotation and seismic activity. The book "The Jupiter Effect" by John Gribbin and Stephen Plagemann is discussed, which predicts a year of unusual seismic activity in 1982. The concept of "iron ages" (periods of climatic deterioration) is also explored, drawing parallels to historical events like the "little ice age" and the Black Death. The article touches upon the potential for future famines and societal upheaval due to climate change.

Further into the magazine, UFO speculation is presented, referencing Ernest P. Moyer's theory that UFO contactees are carefully selected. The issue also includes a section on "Pest?" (Plague?), referencing Fred Hoyle and Chandra Wickramasinghe's book "Lifecloud," which suggests comets could be carriers of viruses, potentially explaining historical plagues.

Parapsychology and Survival Research

The magazine features an in-depth look at the history of parapsychology, particularly "survival research" – the study of whether human consciousness survives bodily death. An article by Ian Stevenson, "PARAPSYKOLOGINS HISTORIA: Överlevnadsforskningen" (The History of Parapsychology: Survival Research), traces the field from the late 19th century to the present, highlighting key researchers and their findings. It discusses phenomena like mediumship, out-of-body experiences, near-death experiences, and reincarnation cases, examining how these have been investigated and interpreted. The article also touches upon the debate between "super-ESP" hypotheses and the survival hypothesis as explanations for paranormal phenomena.

Another article, "Blåst kring Parapsychological Association" by Rolf Ejvegård, delves into the controversy surrounding the Parapsychological Association's relationship with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). It discusses physicist J.A. Wheeler's opposition to parapsychology and his controversial claims about early parapsychological researchers.

"Wisdom's Goldenrod" and Philosophical Study

An article by Åsa Freij, "'WISDOM'S GOLDENROD' ett filosofiskt studiecentrum i USA" ('Wisdom's Goldenrod' a philosophical study center in the USA), reports on a center in Valois, New York, led by Anthony Damiani. This center focuses on esoteric philosophy, self-knowledge, and spiritual development through meditation and study, drawing from ancient wisdom traditions and figures like Paul Brunton.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on "Sökarguiden" (The Search Guide), a calendar of events for December 1979, featuring various spiritual, astrological, and cultural activities in Sweden. There are also book reviews, including "Groddar" (Sprouts) by Per & Gita Sellmann and Anna-Lice Björken, and "Därför fastar jag" (That's why I fast) by Ulla Sallert. A piece on "Spiritualism" by Elisabeth Andersson is also present, detailing personal experiences with séances and materialized phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a worldview that extends beyond conventional materialism and scientific paradigms. It embraces spiritualism, parapsychology, esoteric philosophy, and New Age concepts. There is a strong emphasis on personal transformation, self-knowledge, and the exploration of consciousness. The editorial stance appears to be open to unconventional ideas and phenomena, encouraging readers to question established norms and explore alternative perspectives on life, death, and the universe. The inclusion of future predictions, UFO speculation, and discussions on spiritual practices indicates a focus on the unknown and the potential for a deeper understanding of reality beyond the physical realm.

Title: SM: MED SÖKAREN IN I 80-TALET
Issue: 10
Volume: 16
Date: 1979 (October)
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Annual subscription 64 SEK (68 SEK for 1980)
Cover Headline: MED SÖKAREN IN I 80-TALET

Editorial Introduction

The editorial introduction discusses the magazine "Sökaren," which began publication in 1964 and is now in its 17th year. It has a print run of approximately 3,500 copies per issue and receives financial support from Statens Kulturråd, enabling it to produce 36-40 page issues. The magazine is described as an independent publication for worldview issues, with a focus on parapsychology, UFOs, diverse religious movements (especially Eastern ones), vegetarianism, and "wisdom." It notes that similar interests are found in entities like the bookstore Vattumannen, Måndagsgruppen, Klubb Kamelen, Larsons förlag, and the Theosophical Society. However, Sökaren aims for a more critically examining approach.

The author emphasizes the value of factual, motivated criticism for readers. A genuine search for truth, it is argued, should not only involve open-minded examination of different viewpoints but also the ability to critically sort out what is uninteresting or unsustainable. This critical thinking is presented as a vital tool for both ordinary truth-seekers and scientists.

It is acknowledged that it is easier for Sökaren to find individuals willing to write positively or share their beliefs enthusiastically than to find those who can provide neutral or critically motivated information. Consequently, purely objective or critical articles are fewer than those from "believers" or supporters. The magazine's goal is to provide relevant information and describe phenomena accurately, but ultimately, each reader must make their own judgments and seek information elsewhere. Sökaren's content is intended to be a part of the basis for these personal stances.

Subscription Information

An insert card for subscription renewals is included with this issue, even though a small number of readers have already paid for 1980. Readers unsure about their payment status are advised to contact the editor. The text urges prompt renewal to avoid sending reminder notices.

Publication Details

SÖKAREN
Nr 10 1979 Argång 16
Address: Box 3063, 103 61 Stockholm 3
Postgiro: 70 60 47-8
Bankgiro: 372-8128
Telephone: 08/69 60 27
Editor-in-Chief: Sven Magnusson

Sökaren is an independent magazine for worldview issues, where different opinions can be expressed. Advertisers are solely responsible for the goods and services they offer in advertisements.

Printed by Smålandspostens Boktr. AB, Växjö 1979.
ISSN: 0038-0504
Page: 40

Subscription Prices

• Full year (10 issues): 64 SEK (1980: 68 SEK)
• Half year: 34 SEK (1980: 36 SEK)

Advertising Prices (VAT included):

• Full page: 700 SEK
• Half page: 450 SEK
• Small ads (per column-cm, minimum 45:-): 15 SEK

Contents (INNEHÅLL):

• Asa Freij: Ulla Sallert trusts astrology (page 2)
• Asa Freij: Ulla Sallert at the Måndagsgruppen (page 4)
• Per Sellmann: Themis Förlag (page 6)
• Gustaf Lundgren: My favorite book (page 8)
• Björn Sahlin: Towards a new spirituality? (page 10)
• Rolf Ejvegård: Xenophanes (page 12)
• Philip J Klass: J. Allen Hynek's conversion (page 14)
• Asa Freij: Martinus cosmology (page 18)
• Olle Wedholm: Beyond the limits of time (page 20)
• Sven Rosén: Misery upon misery (page 22)
• Asa Freij: "Wisdom's goldenrod" (page 28)
• Rolf Ejvegård: Blasts around the Parapsychological Association (page 30)
• Rolf Ejvegård: Survival research (page 34)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around spirituality, alternative worldviews, and critical examination of these topics. The magazine covers parapsychology, UFO phenomena, and various religious and esoteric traditions, including Eastern philosophies and figures like Martinus and J. Allen Hynek. There's a clear emphasis on providing a platform for diverse opinions while also encouraging critical thinking and a discerning approach from the reader. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, valuing both personal belief and objective analysis, and striving to present information in a balanced, albeit sometimes challenging, manner. The inclusion of articles on astrology, conversion experiences, and even criticism of organizations like the Parapsychological Association suggests a broad scope within the realm of the unexplained and the spiritual.