Sokaren - 1980 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR3
Date: 1980
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökaren magazine delves into the self-improvement movement 'est' founded by Werner Erhard, exploring its philosophy, impact, and controversies. It also features articles on spirituality, philosophy, and personal growth.

EST: A Movement for Self-Transformation

The cover story introduces Werner Erhard and 'est' (Erhard Seminars Training), a movement focused on personal development and self-improvement. The article highlights that a four-day basic course costs around 1700 Swedish kronor and has been attended by over 200,000 people. Participants reportedly discover themselves and become aware of their behavioral patterns, inhibitions, and possibilities. The text includes a range of opinions on est, from highly positive endorsements to strong warnings, with one person likening it to a cult that committed mass suicide, while another, a veterinarian with philosophical studies, called it the best investment of their life.

Voices on EST

Interviews and anecdotes reveal diverse perspectives. A New York travel agent warns against 'est' followers, comparing them to a cult. A veterinarian in California praises the course for providing more than university studies. A man associated with the Dalai Lama's US visit cautions that est might inflate the ego or help people ignore their conscience. A woman met on a taxi ride simply states she wouldn't recommend it. The reporter visited est offices in Manhattan, describing energetic young people working for free and distributing brochures about Werner Erhard, the founder. Erhard's background, including a difficult childhood and young adulthood, is briefly touched upon. An informational meeting featured a speaker discussing how people blame others, get angry, and hinder their own chances, followed by a young woman expressing how fantastic life became after the est course. Most attendees had already taken the course and helped answer questions.

The reporter acknowledges the difficulty of describing the est experience, likening it to describing a hole – one can only describe what surrounds it. While est is not yet established in Sweden, the article notes that similar movements from the US often arrive there, and there are already est adherents in Sweden. One former est associate has started a similar initiative with more 'heart' and conducted an est training in Sweden.

Est is described as a blend of ancient Eastern philosophy and religion with modern psychology and therapy, emphasizing self-responsibility, positive thinking, and creativity. Werner Erhard, a former car salesman, is presented as the dynamic personality behind this movement, having experienced a personal 'enlightenment' after a period of personal difficulties.

A Swedish EST Enthusiast

Bertil Kuhlemann, known in Swedish 'New Age' circles, completed the est basic course in London and calls it the best investment of his life. He explains that est training aims to deepen the capacity for experience, leading to a change in one's way of being. The training involves confronting oneself, acknowledging positive aspects, and facing difficult issues rather than fleeing them. This process leads to a deeper insight into problems and the development of new perspectives. Kuhlemann states that his life now functions better, with 90-95% of his time spent present, leading to greater satisfaction and energy.

Festival for Mind-Body-Spirit

The magazine also reports on the 4th International Festival for Mind-Body-Spirit held at the New York Coliseum from September 26-30, 1979. Organized by Graham Wilson, who had previously held successful festivals in London, the event attracted a large audience. Over 150 exhibitors offered various paths to spiritual growth. Graham Wilson emphasized the festival as a collective project supporting life processes through nature, clean air, water, organic food, and inner positive energy.

The festival featured well-known figures from the New Age movement, including Peter Caddy of Findhorn and Sir George Trevelyan. Marty Echols, 'the singing salesman,' entertained and distributed gifts from participating companies. The festival offered vegetarian food, herbal teas, and whole-grain snacks, making the Coliseum a healthy and exciting place.

Program highlights included Indian temple dance, meditation, and talks on various spiritual topics. Arlene Slater-Stone presented her 'voice philosophy,' and Leonard Orr discussed the mind, money, body, and breathing. Irving Oyle, a doctor, spoke about the right brain hemisphere and visualization techniques. Paul Solomon and macrobioticist Michio Kushi were also among the speakers.

Representatives from Scandinavia included the Scandinavian Yoga and Meditation School. Swami Janakananda led a yoga course. The San Francisco Medical Research Foundation presented a system for living in balance with nature, focusing on health and vitality. Dr. Ornstein, who developed these principles, stressed the importance of clean blood, chlorophyll, gut health, nutritional supplements, C-vitamins, and Aloe Vera for well-being. He also noted that over 80% of illnesses are psychosomatic or emotional.

Philosophical Explorations

Zenon of Elea

An article by Rolf Ejvegård explores the philosophy of Zenon of Elea, a disciple of Parmenides, known for his paradoxes that challenged the concepts of motion and plurality. Zenon argued that if we assume plurality and motion, we arrive at logical contradictions. His arguments, such as the Achilles and the tortoise paradox, suggest that motion is an illusion. The article presents Zenon's reasoning, including his proofs against the possibility of motion and the existence of multiple entities, concluding that the universe is a single, indivisible, and motionless entity.

Saswitha: Non-Guru Guru

Another article profiles Josia Rijks, known as Saswitha, a 79-year-old Dutch spiritual leader who lived and traveled in the East. He started one of the first yoga schools in Holland in the late 1940s and developed his own 'short path to wisdom.' Saswitha's philosophy, 'Swabhawat,' emphasizes that nothing exists independently and everything is in constant change. He believes that true wisdom comes from understanding the difference between perception and reality, and that 'all is.' Saswitha's teachings are described as principles rather than strict rules, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their own lives. He has been married four times and currently lives with his fourth wife, who is 40 years his junior. Saswitha's approach to teaching involves encouraging students to become their own gurus and to take responsibility for their learning.

'The Borderland of Death' in Medieval Literature

Per Beskow discusses medieval literature concerning near-death experiences, drawing parallels with modern accounts. He references Plutarch's description of a soul's journey and the Tibetan Book of the Dead. Medieval visions, such as those described by Bede Venerabilis and the Norwegian ballad 'Draumkvaede,' often feature a soul leaving the body, encountering a guide, and traveling through different realms, including purgatory and paradise. Beskow notes that while these medieval accounts lack the psychological detail of modern reports, they reflect the medieval Christian worldview. He contrasts this with the modern Western tendency to fear and suppress the idea of death, suggesting that a more conscious approach to death, as seen in medieval 'Ars moriendi' (The Art of Dying), is needed.

Inner Peace, Outer Strife

Anna C. Bornstein writes about the human experience of finding inner peace and the struggle to reconcile it with the limitations and challenges of the external world. Drawing on the work of psychologist C.G. Jung and philosopher Paul Brunton, the article explores the idea that the physical world is a manifestation of consciousness. It suggests that true understanding comes not from escaping the material world but from recognizing its underlying unity with the spiritual realm. The article emphasizes the importance of active engagement with life and accepting personal responsibility, rather than retreating into mystical contemplation. It highlights the concept of karma and the idea that the physical world is a mental construct, urging readers to approach each experience with reverence and a desire to learn.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of personal growth, spirituality, and alternative philosophies. There's a clear interest in movements and ideas originating from the East and their adaptation to a Western context. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse viewpoints on controversial topics like 'est' while also offering in-depth philosophical and spiritual discussions. The magazine seems to encourage self-reflection and a critical yet open-minded approach to understanding life's deeper questions.

Title: Sökarguide
Issue: April '80
Date: April 1980

This issue of Sökarguide, a Swedish magazine focused on spiritual, parapsychological, and alternative lifestyle topics, presents a diverse range of articles and events. The cover prominently features an announcement about developing ESP abilities with Dr. Milan Ryzl and highlights the Teosofiska Rörelsen. Other key articles include an interview with former Indian Prime Minister Morarji Desai, a report on Waldorf education, and a critical examination of astrology.

Developing ESP Abilities with Dr. Milan Ryzl

The lead article introduces Dr. Milan Ryzl, a parapsychologist with over 20 years of experience in helping individuals develop their paranormal abilities. Ryzl, who holds a doctorate from Prague University and works at the University of California, USA, is presented as a figure at the forefront of parapsychological research. The event, organized by Föreningen för Psykobiofysik, was scheduled for April 23rd in Stockholm.

Morarji Desai: A Lotus on a Steel Stalk

Journalist Bertil Falk interviews Morarji Desai, the 83-year-old former Prime Minister of India and a disciple of Mahatma Gandhi. Desai, known for his principles and moral ideals, is also described as a shrewd politician. The interview touches upon his advocacy for a nationwide prohibition of alcohol in India, his vegetarianism, and his practice of drinking his own urine, which he details in his book "Nature Cure." Desai believes that India has a spiritual heritage to share with the world but must first live up to its own ideals. He discusses the difference between Western and Indian civilizations, with the former focused on material possessions and the latter on self-improvement. Desai also shares his views on the importance of purity in methods and the need to control selfish ambitions. He recounts learning about urine therapy from Dr. Armstrong and its benefits for various ailments. The article includes commentary from Swedish medical professionals expressing skepticism about urine therapy.

Desai also addresses the issue of communal harmony in India, attributing conflicts to human manipulation rather than religious differences. He emphasizes that religions, in their essence, teach the same truths and promote peace. He reflects on his age, stating that while physical energy may wane, the mind sharpens with experience. He continues to practice spinning daily, wearing clothes he has made himself.

Waldorf Education: Martinskolan in Hökarängen

Reportage by Åsa Freij explores the growing popularity of Waldorf schools in Sweden, with Martinskolan in Hökarängen being highlighted. The school, like other Waldorf institutions, faces economic challenges despite its success in fostering creativity and avoiding the issues prevalent in conventional schools. The article describes the pedagogical approach, which educates the whole child—body, soul, and spirit—and emphasizes learning through practical experience and artistic activities. It notes that the curriculum is structured in distinct periods, with theoretical subjects taught in the morning and practical ones in the afternoon. The report includes an interaction with a student named Ninoushka and her teacher, Mona-Cajsa Larsson, illustrating the school's philosophy. The article also touches upon the connection to Anthroposophy but clarifies that the education does not promote a specific worldview. It mentions the challenges of maintaining school facilities and the reliance on voluntary work and parental involvement. The report also briefly discusses the book "Djurförsök" (Animal Experiments) by Ulf Löfgren, critiquing its aggressive tone while acknowledging its factual content.

Astrology Investigation: No Support Beyond Chance

Sökaren initiated an astrology investigation where 30 individuals offered to be "target persons" with detailed life event information. A psychologist was initially meant to conduct the study but withdrew due to lack of time. The magazine's editor then undertook a simplified version, providing four individuals (A, B, C, D) with detailed personal information and birth data to 13 astrologers. The task was to match the individuals with their correct birth data. The results were disappointing, with an average of less than one correct match per astrologer, indicating that the accuracy was no better than random chance. The article concludes that the investigation provides no support for astrology. It also includes a brief mention of Gabriel Astrolog and his predictions for 1979, which were mixed.

Other Articles and Sections

• Teosofiska Rörelsen in Malmö: A group in Malmö discusses Theosophy and has started a journal called "Teosofisk Rörelse." They meet on Wednesdays at 7 PM.
• "Barnet i ditt hjärta - det är ditt sanna Jag!": A two-day seminar on family, children, and education in the new age, held on April 19-20 at HÄLSANS HUS.
• Alexander Technique: Information on a technique for improving body and mind coordination, offered by Apeiron.
• Shiatsu: A course on Shiatsu, acupuncture, and massage with Wong Yot-in from Kushi Institute, London, on April 26-27.
• Time Section: A calendar listing various events, lectures, courses, and meditation groups in April, including topics like meditation, Islam, Polaritetsterapi, Samerna, Swami Muktananda, Ananda Acharya, nature, teaching, orientation, Siddha Yoga, ancestor veneration, Shiatzu massage, Buddhism, Eckankar, Master teachings, cooking, Findhorn, human mysticism, and the creation of the Earth.
• Book Reviews: A comprehensive list of books reviewed in Sökaren from 1970-1979, covering a wide range of topics including spirituality, parapsychology, religion, and alternative lifestyles.
• Letters to the Editor: A letter from "Broder Sven" expressing concern about an article by Olle Wedholm regarding belief in God, and a response from Olle Wedholm defending the magazine's open approach to different viewpoints.
• "Tiden" (Time) by Olle Wedholm: A philosophical reflection on the nature of time, questioning the reliability of clocks and emphasizing the subjective experience of time.
• Contact Ads: Various personal ads seeking connections and information.
• Gurdjieff-Ouspensky-Centra: Information on practical application of original wisdom.
• "Profeten" (The Prophet): A short, evocative text about space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial life.
• "Psykoterapin och Gud" (Psychotherapy and God): A review of Fritz Zorn's autobiographical book "Mars i exil," which explores the author's struggle with cancer, his upbringing, and his critical views on religion and society.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an open-minded exploration of spiritual, psychological, and alternative health topics. It encourages critical thinking and discussion, allowing for a diversity of viewpoints, including those that challenge conventional beliefs. There is a clear interest in personal growth, self-discovery, and understanding the deeper aspects of life. The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity and a willingness to engage with unconventional ideas, while also maintaining a critical perspective, as seen in the astrology investigation. The magazine also seems to advocate for a more holistic and ethical approach to life, as evidenced by the discussions on animal rights and vegetarianism. The inclusion of book reviews and event listings suggests a role as a resource for individuals interested in these subjects.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: 3, Volume 17
Date: 1980
Publisher: Smålandspostens Boktr. AB (Printed by)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: 68:- for a full year (10 issues)

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish independent magazine for life philosophy, explores "Methods for getting along with oneself and others." The editorial highlights the increasing interest in "human development" movements, originating from countries like the USA, and their appeal to individuals drawn to spirituality and new concepts. The magazine notes its own growing coverage of these movements.

Methods for Self-Improvement and Harmony

The magazine lists numerous methods that have been covered, either in depth or briefly, including:

• Positive Thinking: As advocated by Norman Vincent Peale.
• Subconscious Programming and Self-Hypnosis: Techniques associated with Al Koran.
• Self-Hypnosis and Self-Confidence Training: Methods using recorded tapes, as presented by Lars-Eric Uneståhl.
• "Est" Method: Emphasizing loving presence in people and situations.
• Mantra Repetition: Used for relaxation and effectiveness, notably within TM (Transcendental Meditation).
• Scientology: Involving auditing with the E-meter.
• Self-Control: Techniques associated with Ouspensky and Gurdjieff.
• Chanting: The Hare Krishna movement's practice of chanting God's name.
• Meditation Methods: Including those from Divine Light Missions and Orrs rebirthing method.
• Other Techniques: Beesleys method, Zen meditation, and various forms of yoga.

The editorial suggests that many of these methods can lead to a positive outcome, often described by adherents as a "rebirth," provided they are pursued with sufficient focus and dedication.

Future Direction and Call for Contributions

Sökaren anticipates potentially covering more topics related to personality development in the future, emphasizing that life is not just about seeking truth but also about living richly and harmoniously. For this to be realized, the magazine seeks contributions from individuals interested in human development who have a good understanding of the field. This could include writing, reporting, or providing information. The editor notes that this direction might overlap with the content of the publication "Nexus," but suggests this could be beneficial for both "the cause" and the respective magazines.

Contents of the Issue

The issue features several articles and columns:

• "Est – en ny rörelse" (Est – a new movement) by Asa Freij (Page 2)
• "New York-festival" (New York Festival) (Page 4)
• "Non-guru guru Saswitha" by Asa Freij (Page 8)
• "Kyrkoherde Per Lundblad berättar" (Parish Priest Per Lundblad tells) by Maria Adkinson (Page 12)
• "Dödens gränsland" i medeltiden" ("The borderland of death" in the Middle Ages) by Per Beskow (Page 14)
• "Zenon från Elea" (Zeno of Elea) by Rolf Ejvegård (Page 16)
• "Inre frid, yttre strid" (Inner peace, outer strife) by Anna C. Bornstein (Page 18)
• "Morarji Desai" by Bertil Falk (Page 22)
• "Waldorfpedagogik" (Waldorf Pedagogy) by Surya Green (Page 26)
• "Böcker omskrivna i Sökaren" (Books reviewed in Sökaren) (Page 29)
• "Astrologer misslyckas i prov" (Astrologers fail in test) (Page 34)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine positions itself as an independent platform for life philosophy, open to diverse opinions. It covers a broad spectrum of topics ranging from self-help and psychological techniques to philosophical and spiritual explorations. The editorial stance appears open to new ideas and movements in personal growth and spirituality, actively seeking to inform its readers about different paths to self-understanding and harmonious living. There's a clear interest in bridging the gap between seeking truth and living a fulfilling life, with an invitation for community involvement in shaping the magazine's content.