Sokaren - 1982 No 02

Magazine Overview

Sökaren, NR2, 1982, Årgång 19. This issue of the Swedish magazine focuses on alternative approaches to life, knowledge, and societal issues, with a strong emphasis on personal development and holistic living.

The 'Alternative Nobel Prize' 1981

The cover story highlights the "Alternative Nobel Prize" awarded in 1981 by Jakob von Yxkull's foundation, The Right Livelihood Foundation. The donor's intention is to "support those who are working on the world's real problems today." The recipients in 1981 were a South African educator, an Australian farmer, and an English trade unionist. The article details the work of each recipient:

• Mike Cooley, an English engineer and trade unionist, received the prize for his work in planning and promoting the production of socially beneficial products instead of weapons. He was instrumental in developing an alternative production plan at Lucas Aerospace, focusing on over 150 socially useful products and advocating for meaningful work and production. He donated his share of the prize money to CAITS (Centret för Alternativa Industriella och Teknologiska System).
• Patrick van Rensburg, a South African educator in exile, was recognized for his work in developing educational models to socially liberate the majority of the Third World's population. He founded the Youth Brigade movement in Botswana, providing work and training, and also runs the Foundation for Education with Production in Zimbabwe, emphasizing the integration of theory and practice in education.
• Bill Mollison, an Australian agricultural pioneer, founded the Institute for Permaculture. He describes permaculture as an "integrated, living system of perennial and self-reproducing plant and animal species, useful to man," advocating for a low-energy, high-yield ecological farming system.

The article notes that the conventional Nobel Prizes are criticized for not always rewarding work that truly benefits humanity, unlike the "Alternative Nobel Prize."

Life Festival in Stockholm

A report on a "Life Festival" held in Stockholm in December 1981, described as "Let us light the candles!" The festival aimed to celebrate life with joy, humor, and seriousness, featuring various programs including lectures, theater, film, music, dance, and meditation. The organizers emphasized the need for alternative solutions beyond established culture, politics, science, and religion to address the world's problems.

Several speakers at the festival are highlighted:

• Björn Roxendal spoke on "Therapy and Beyond Therapy: Helping Oneself and Others on the Path." He discussed the concept of three "eyes" or types of knowledge: the sensory eye (factual), the mind's eye (theoretical), and the soul's eye (existential, intuitive). He advocated for a shift from a mechanistic worldview to an organic, holistic one and emphasized self-organization as a key concept for the future.
• Basile Catoméris, a yoga teacher, presented on yoga, defining it as more than just a religion or philosophy, but a way of life. He stressed the importance of control, concentration, and union in yoga, and discussed the concept of the "eternal charioteer" who appears when world order is disrupted. He also outlined the "10 rules of Hatha Yoga," including non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, sexual control, abstinence, contentment, asceticism, spiritual studies, and concentration exercises.
• Anil Horn discussed "New Age Education," criticizing modern society's materialism and its impact on health. She emphasized that true change comes from within individuals and that a "new humanity" with higher consciousness and greater abilities is emerging.
• Jan Grönholm spoke about "Three Types of Knowledge," elaborating on the sensory, mental, and soul's eyes. He discussed the paradigm shift from a mechanistic to an organic-holistic worldview and the concept of self-organization in the universe.
• Pastor primarius Ludvig Jönsson discussed "The True and False Power," distinguishing between power used for cooperation towards common goals and power used for exploitation and control.

Shamanism: A Sacred Technique

An article by Jörgen I. Eriksson explores the growing interest in shamanism in the West. Shamanism, an ancient tradition at least 25,000 years old, is described as a "technique of ecstasy" and a "technique of the sacred." The article details the role of the shaman as a healer, psychotherapist, and spiritual leader, responsible for maintaining balance within the community and with nature. It explains the concept of controlled ecstasy, soul journeys, and the use of spirit helpers. The article also draws parallels between shamanism and Nordic traditions, such as the figure of Odin, the practice of 'sejd' (a form of trance magic), and 'utesittning' (sitting outdoors to gain wisdom), suggesting these traditions hold valuable insights for contemporary society.

Animal Intelligence and Communication

An article titled "The Myth of Man as the Crown of Creation" by Lennart Lidfors discusses the intelligence and communication abilities of animals, challenging the anthropocentric view. It highlights research on chimpanzees and gorillas, particularly the work with Washoe and Koko, who learned sign language. The article presents examples of their communication, including Koko's ability to form sentences, express emotions, and even lie. It also touches upon research with dolphins, suggesting that they might be the ones studying humans.

Learning Methods

• Suggestopedia: An article by Per Sellmann describes a three-day seminar on Suggestopedia, a language learning method developed by Georgi Lozanov. The method uses music, relaxation, and a positive environment to accelerate language acquisition, claiming students can learn thousands of new words in a short period.
• Visual Memory (Mind Mapping): Another article by Per Sellmann introduces "mind mapping" or "visual memory," developed by Paul L. Hollander. This technique involves creating visual notes using keywords, symbols, and colors to mimic the brain's natural thought process, aiding recall and problem-solving.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes alternative perspectives on life, health, and society, emphasizing personal transformation, holistic approaches, and the interconnectedness of all things. There is a clear leaning towards New Age philosophy, spiritual exploration, and the rediscovery of ancient wisdom traditions. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a paradigm shift away from materialism and conventional societal structures towards more conscious, integrated, and sustainable ways of living.

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1982, features a prominent article on the "Ten UFOological Research Principles According to Philip J. Klass." The cover headline highlights Klass's assertion that UFOs are not from outer space and that most cases can be explained by earthly means. The magazine also includes articles on magnetotherapy, holistic health centers, and various spiritual and philosophical topics.

UFO Research Principles by Philip J. Klass

Journalist Bill Nilsson details Philip J. Klass's approach to UFO investigations. Klass, an American technical journalist, is convinced that no UFO case originates from outside Earth. His book "UFOs Explained" (1974) analyzes previously unexplained cases, proposing ten principles for ufological research.

Principle 1: Misidentification and Human Perception

Klass's first principle, illustrated by a 1948 UFO sighting of a cigar-shaped object with luminous windows, highlights how honest and intelligent people can misdescribe what they see when encountering the unknown. The 1948 case, initially unexplained, was later linked to a Soviet rocket breaking up in the atmosphere, with the glowing fragments mistaken for windows. This suggests that similar past observations might also be misinterpretations of natural phenomena like meteors.

Principle 2: Accuracy and Inaccuracy in Witness Descriptions

Incidents in 1967 and 1969 involving strange lights in the night sky, described as silent or humming, were initially thought to be unexplainable. However, Klass explains these as aircraft involved in testing new radar or photographic techniques. While some details in witness accounts were accurate (e.g., lights appearing on Tuesday nights), others were completely wrong. Klass's second principle states that while some details of unexpected observations may be accurately described, others can be entirely false, making it difficult to discern truth without knowing the actual phenomenon.

Principle 3: Perceived Reactions and Coincidence

A 1968 incident involving a pilot seeing nine red, shining lights in formation near Seattle is presented. The pilot believed the objects reacted to his presence. Klass explains this as a prank by youths using hot air balloons with candles and red lanterns. The perceived 'intelligent' movements were merely the balloons following wind currents. Klass's third principle warns that observers may mistakenly believe an object is reacting to them when there is no causal link, attributing significance to coincidences.

Principle 4: Media Coverage and Explanations

The Seattle incident, initially a front-page story, received only a brief mention once explained. Klass's fourth principle notes that media often give significant attention to UFO reports when they first emerge but little to the subsequent, mundane explanations, leading readers to believe many cases remain unexplained.

Principle 5: Difficulty in Judging Distance and Size

In a 1969 sighting near St. Louis, multiple aircraft crews and radar detected unidentified flying objects. While initially thought to be UFOs, Klass suggests they were likely aircraft. He points out that pilots often misjudge distances and altitudes, especially with unusual objects. This leads to his fifth principle: human observers, even experienced pilots, struggle to accurately judge distance, height, or shape of unusual aerial objects unless they are very close to familiar objects.

Principle 6: Media Influence on UFO Sightings

The 1972 UFO 'epidemic' in Kansas, with numerous reports and media coverage, is analyzed. Klass attributes many sightings to bright Venus, weather balloons, and meteor showers. He notes that media attention can encourage more people to report sightings, creating a cycle that quickly dissipates when media interest wanes. This forms his sixth principle: media coverage of UFOs can lead to a surge in reports, with both natural and man-made objects being perceived as extraordinary.

Principle 7: Physical Evidence vs. Personal Testimony

A 1967 case in South Hill, Virginia, involving a reported flying object that took off with flames, leaving burn marks, was initially considered unexplained. However, Klass's closer examination revealed inconsistencies, such as burnt matches and later-appearing asphalt imprints. He concludes that the witness, Mr. Crowder, likely staged the event. His seventh principle advises relying on physical evidence over personal testimony, especially when assessing potential deception.

Principle 8: Limits of Scientific Explanation

In an August 1968 sighting, a man observed a luminous, pear-shaped object that dissolved. While a meteor was also reported, details like color and lack of a tail didn't fully match. Klass suggests the object might have been a plasma formation related to the meteor or a power line. He concludes it's impossible to definitively explain the sighting, leading to his eighth principle: even experienced researchers may struggle to fully explain UFO sightings due to insufficient information, which does not automatically support extraterrestrial hypotheses.

Principle 9: Radar Anomalies and 'Angels'

Klass discusses how radar can detect objects that are not physically present, termed 'angels.' He explains that strong radars can register flocks of birds, insects, or even single birds, as well as atmospheric phenomena. A 1972 report from West Palm Beach, Florida, where radar detected an object confirmed by multiple observers, was later identified as Venus. This illustrates his ninth principle: radar detections of UFOs are often confirmed by visual sightings, and vice versa, but neither necessarily indicates a genuine unexplained phenomenon.

Principle 10: Thorough Investigation is Key

Klass's tenth principle, illustrated by the 'classic' 1956 Bentwaters and Lakenheath incident in England, emphasizes that many UFO cases appear baffling simply because they haven't been thoroughly investigated. He believes that with sufficient effort, most cases would yield mundane explanations. Klass concludes that there is no convincing evidence of extraterrestrial visitation to Earth, and those who remain convinced of UFOs and other phenomena like astrology or telepathy often focus on the unexplained, dismissing the explained.

Mandala: A Holistic Center in Norway

Freya Sidanius reports on the Mandala center in Gausdal, Norway, a holistic center inspired by the concept of wholeness symbolized by the circle. The center, housed in traditional Norwegian farm buildings, aims to serve humanity through love and unity. It offers courses in various alternative therapies, including psychodrama, raw food, nature medicine, meditation, and healing. Mandala emphasizes a vegetarian diet and a harmonious lifestyle, fostering a sense of community among its residents and visitors.

Magnetotherapy: A Path to Health?

Eva Jagrell interviews Ivan and Birgit Troëng, founders of the Terapimagneter foundation in Mellbystrand, Sweden. They advocate for magnetotherapy, claiming it improves circulation and the body's overall condition, enabling it to heal itself. They are critical of conventional cancer treatments and believe magnetotherapy can help many patients if applied early. The Troëngs are also critical of the current healthcare system, citing rising costs and illness rates. They note that while many doctors are skeptical, younger physicians are more open to alternative methods. Magnetotherapy is widely accepted in countries like Japan and researched in the Soviet Union, USA, and Canada. The article also touches upon historical figures like Mesmer and Paracelsus who used magnetism for healing.

Other Articles and Columns

• What is Good? What is Evil?: A parable illustrating the subjective nature of good and evil, and how circumstances can change perceptions.
• The Myth of Creation's Crown: Discusses advancements in dolphin communication research, suggesting a breakthrough is imminent as dolphins may soon master a significant vocabulary.
• Americans and Russians Exchange Photos: An initiative promoting peace through a photo exchange program between American and Russian families.
• Friendship East-West: Reports on a program facilitating exchange between Soviet citizens and American families to foster understanding and reduce Cold War tensions.
• Astrology is Not Confirmed: An examination of studies by Professor Hans Eysenck and Jeff Mayo that question the scientific validity of astrology, suggesting correlations between birth signs and personality are likely due to psychological factors rather than celestial influence.
• The Enquirer Journalist: An interview with John T. Miller, a former journalist for the sensationalist National Enquirer, revealing the publication's methods of creating stories and the moral compromises involved.
• The Riddle of Aging Solved?: Explores research by W. Donner Denckla suggesting a newly discovered hormone from the pituitary gland may accelerate aging by reducing the body's ability to utilize thyroid hormone. Experiments on rats showed potential reversal of aging processes.
• Organizational Force Fields: Discusses Harold Saxton Burr's theory of 'life fields' (L-fields), non-physical energy structures that organize living organisms, suggesting life is not a coincidence but part of a universal plan.
• Book Reviews: Includes reviews of "Indisk filosofi" (Indian Philosophy) by Helmuth von Glasenapp and a critique of Sven Stolpe's book attacking Olof Lagercrantz.
• Poetry: Features a poem titled "Gråt, min älskade, gråt" (Cry, my beloved, cry) by Per Ragnar.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores alternative perspectives on science, health, and spirituality, often questioning mainstream views. There's a strong emphasis on holistic approaches, personal growth, and the potential for human consciousness to transcend conventional limitations. The editorial stance appears to favor critical inquiry into phenomena, whether UFOs, alternative medicine, or spiritual beliefs, while remaining open to possibilities beyond established scientific paradigms. The publication also promotes peace and understanding between different cultures and political systems.

This issue of Sökaren, dated February 1982 (Nr 2, 1982), is an independent magazine for life philosophy issues, published in Stockholm, Sweden. The cover prominently features the headline "ATT SE MED ANDRAS ÖGON" (To See With Others' Eyes), suggesting a focus on empathy and understanding.

Articles and Content

The issue contains a variety of articles, including:

• "Alternativa nobelpriset" by Åsa Freij.
• "Livsfestival i Stockholm" by SM.
• "Shamanism - en helig teknik" by Jörgen I. Eriksson.
• "Suggestopedi" and "Visuellt minne" by Per Sellmann.
• "Myten om skapelsens krona" by Lennart Lidfors.
• "Tio ufologiska forskningsprinciper enligt Philip J. Klass" by Bill Nilsson.
• "Mandala - ett helhetscenter" by Freya Sidanius.
• "Magnetterapi - en väg till hälsa för många?" by Eva Jagrell.
• "Sökarguiden" by Per Sellmann.
• "Holistisk bokvandring" by Nils-Olof Jacobson.

The editorial on the cover, "Att Se Med Andras Ögon," emphasizes the importance of seeing the world through the eyes of others to foster understanding, tolerance, and better communication. It suggests that by understanding others' perspectives, we can realize our common humanity and resolve conflicts, using the example of political leaders like Reagan and Bresjnev.

Bô Yin Râ's Works

A significant section of the magazine is dedicated to the works of the German-Swiss writer and poet Bô Yin Râ (Joseph Anton Schneiderfranken). It introduces him as a writer whose books aim to help individuals find meaning, harmony, security, and clarity in life without binding them to any specific religious community. The article highlights that his teachings cater to various spiritual inclinations and can lead to inner enrichment. It recommends several of his books as starting points for study, including "Boken om livet efter detta" (The Book of Life After Death), "Mysteriet från Golgata" (The Mystery from Golgata), "Boken om lyckan" (The Book of Happiness), and "Tillvarons mening" (The Meaning of Existence), with "Boken om den levande Guden" (The Book of the Living God) being a thematic cornerstone.

A biographical sketch of Bô Yin Râ is provided, noting his birth in 1876 in Aschaffenburg, Germany, his limited formal education, his time as a painter in Frankfurt, and his extensive travels in Europe between 1900 and 1917. He moved to Lugano, Switzerland, in 1923, where he dedicated himself to painting and writing until his death in 1943. His books have been translated into several languages, with Kober'sche Verlagsbuchhandlung in Bern being his main publisher.

Pages 3 and 4 feature a comprehensive catalog of Bô Yin Râ's books available from Widings Förlags AB, listing titles, prices for both paperback (häft.) and hardcover (inb.) editions, and providing brief descriptions for some. The catalog also includes an order form.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine, Sökaren, appears to focus on spirituality, personal development, and alternative philosophies. The emphasis on "seeing with others' eyes" suggests a commitment to fostering understanding and dialogue. The inclusion of articles on ufology, shamanism, and magnet therapy indicates an interest in a broad spectrum of unconventional topics and beliefs. The magazine promotes a holistic approach to life, encouraging readers to seek meaning, harmony, and self-discovery through literature and introspection.

Publication Details

The magazine is published by Widings Förlags AB. Subscription prices are listed as 92 SEK for a full year (10 issues) and 48 SEK for a half-year. Advertising prices are also provided. The magazine is printed by Smålandspostens Boktr. AB in 1982. The editor-in-chief and responsible publisher is Sven Magnusson.