Sokaren - 1983 No 10

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR10
Volume: ÅRGÅNG 20
Date: 1983
Publisher: Not specified
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Price: 12:00 INKL MOMS

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1983, prominently features the "Festival for Body, Mind & Spirit" held in London. The cover showcases portraits of several individuals, including Jarl Hammarberg, Peter Koestenbaum, Jan Grönholm, Edgar Mitchell, and Annakarin Svedberg. The magazine delves into themes of self-transformation, consciousness, relationships, and holistic development, drawing from various speakers and concepts.

Festival for Body, Mind & Spirit

The article "Festival för kropp, själ och ande, åttonde året" by Monica Seilitz describes the eighth annual festival held in London during July. The event spanned nine days and hosted 107 exhibitors and speakers, including astrologers, tarot readers, acupuncturists, healers, anthroposophers, Rosicrucians, Swedenborgians, and representatives from various spiritual and New Age organizations. The festival also featured lectures and demonstrations on topics such as New Games, karate, aikido, and dancercise, emphasizing a healthy lifestyle. Notable speakers mentioned include Rupert Sheldrake, Sir George Trevelyan, Paul Solomon, Scott Hill, Peter Russell, and Matthew Manning. The author highlights the "Love, sexuality & relationship" intensive led by Francesca Gabrielle Rossetti.

Different Types of Human Consciousness

An excerpt from Paul Solomon's lecture, "Transformation and the Mystic Experience," categorizes human consciousness into four types:

• The Ordinary Human: Characterized by experiences expected of a typical person, often feeling like a victim of circumstances, with happiness dependent on external factors.
• The Effective Human: This type takes responsibility, improves their life, communicates better, and understands the impact of thoughts and actions on health. They are no longer victims of circumstances.
• The Possible Human: A concept attributed to Dr. Jean Houston, this individual has discovered that what they believed to be impossible is achievable, excelling in various fields like athletics, music, or mathematics.
• The Meta-Human: This individual has undergone a metamorphosis, viewing themselves as a part of God, equal to Jesus. They have moved beyond being merely human to being the creative human, experiencing transformation and mystical experiences.

Solomon's book "Meta-Human" is mentioned as being released in autumn 1983.

Love, Sexuality, and Relationships

Francesca Gabrielle Rossetti, a writer, speaker, and healer, led an intensive on "Love, sexuality & relationship." Her teachings emphasize the importance of unconditional love, giving up the self, and avoiding control in relationships. She likens controlling a person to harming a growing flower, stressing the need to provide space for growth. True love, she explains, involves surrendering personal desires to allow divine energy to work through the relationship. Healing is presented as practical love, and the experience of ecstasy should not be clung to but allowed to flow. Rossetti also discusses the challenges in relationships stemming from past negative experiences and the need for understanding and patience.

The "Living Company" Conference

An article by Åsa Freij discusses the fourth annual conference "Levande företag i en ny tid" (Living Company in a New Era) held in Sunne. The conference aimed to challenge participants to move beyond old paradigms and embrace new ways of thinking about business and life. The organizers, P & P-gruppen, stated that the goal was not economic profit but to facilitate personal transformation. Key speakers included Peter Koestenbaum, who argued that human needs are primarily spiritual and ethical, and that companies should serve humanity's deeper needs rather than just profit. Other speakers mentioned are Tor Lindmark, Jan Boström, Gary Zukav, and Francis Vaughan.

The Shift from Industrial to Post-Industrial Society

Jan Grönholm, a philosopher and consultant, presented on the evolution of society. He described the pre-industrial society as hierarchical and religiously oriented, where life's meaning was salvation. The industrial society, beginning around the 16th century, shifted focus to science, technology, and the present life, viewing humans as machines and resources as limitless. However, this led to environmental depletion and a sense of dissatisfaction. Grönholm posited that we are moving into a post-industrial society characterized by information, synergy, and a focus on the "unlimited human." This new human is self-creating, community-oriented, and seeks self-realization and group consciousness. The goal in this society is consciousness development, with work redefined as creating, preserving, and destroying in service to humanity.

Edgar Mitchell's Perspective

Astronaut Edgar Mitchell, who walked on the moon, shared his profound experience of seeing Earth from space. This perspective instilled in him a love for Earth but also a concern for humanity's actions. He emphasized the need for humans to adopt a new perspective on themselves to ensure a future, moving from a limited to an unlimited view of human potential. Mitchell discussed the concept of consciousness as a spectrum beyond waking and sleeping, and the importance of Eastern philosophies in understanding this. He also touched upon the idea that reality is shaped by our perceptions and belief systems, citing the Uri Geller experiments as an example of how belief influences what we perceive.

Rupert Sheldrake's Theory

Dr. Mitchell also discussed Rupert Sheldrake's theory of morphogenetic fields. These fields, analogous to gravitational fields, are proposed to shape all forms in the universe. Sheldrake's theory suggests that once a form or behavior is established, it becomes easier for similar forms to emerge, implying a collective memory or influence. This theory is presented as a potential link between material science and the spiritual realm, suggesting that past experiences might be accessible through morphogenetic resonance.

Self-Transformation and the Heroic Ego

Peter Koestenbaum lectured on "Self-Transformation" and the "Heroic Ego." He argued that humans need to transform to realize their full potential and live a meaningful life. Koestenbaum outlined three paths to self-transformation: the existential path of the heroic ego, surrendering to the unconscious, and the transpersonal path from Eastern traditions. The heroic ego is characterized by accepting death, embracing life fully in the present moment, and finding meaning through courage and risk-taking. He suggested that anxiety, often seen negatively, is a sign of being alive and can be transformed through acceptance and courage. The concept of the "heroic ego" involves confronting and integrating past experiences, including guilt and fear, to achieve a state of full presence and self-mastery.

Holistic Health and Consciousness

Frances Vaughan, a psychology professor, spoke on "Becoming Whole Humans, Unlimited Humans, True Humans." She stressed the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Vaughan emphasized the importance of emotional health, which involves acknowledging and expressing feelings rather than suppressing them. She also discussed the role of thoughts in shaping reality and the significance of transpersonal psychology in bridging Eastern and Western approaches to consciousness. The idea of the "unlimited self" and transcending the ego to become part of a larger whole was central to her message.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes a holistic view of human existence, integrating spiritual, mental, and physical well-being. There is a strong emphasis on self-transformation, personal responsibility, and expanding consciousness beyond conventional limitations. The magazine appears to align with New Age and transpersonal psychology perspectives, encouraging readers to explore inner potential and embrace a more integrated approach to life. The articles suggest a shift away from materialism and a focus on deeper, more meaningful aspects of existence, reflecting a broader cultural interest in spirituality and self-discovery during the 1980s.

This issue of Sökarguiden, dated 1984, is a special edition focusing on a "LIVSFESTIVAL" (Life Festival) held on January 21-22, 1984, at Fältöversten in Stockholm. The magazine delves into themes of personal development, spirituality, holistic health, and alternative lifestyles.

Key Articles and Themes

Levande Företag (Living Enterprise)

This section explores paths to self-transformation. Peter Koestenbaum, in a summary by SM, discusses two paths: one of active will and courage, and another of surrender and letting go, emphasizing that life's meaning is discovered, not created. He suggests that by changing our thoughts, we can change our reality. Another article, "Nya Idéer" (New Ideas), posits that ideas exist in an 'idea world' and seek humans to manifest through. It encourages opening oneself to new perspectives by thinking contrarily.

Eliten Upplyses (The Elite is Enlightened)

This piece comments on the "Levande företag i en ny tid" (Living Enterprise in a New Era) conference, noting its high participation fee and target audience of well-educated, competent, and financially capable individuals, suggesting a parallel with "Nytänkarna" (New Thinkers) in targeting a social elite.

Sökarguiden Livsfestival 1984

This section details the upcoming Life Festival, listing activities, lectures, and workshops. It mentions specific events like Kundalini Yoga, Gestalt Therapy, and a session on "Odmjuk HET" (Humble HEAT) with Martinus Institut representatives. Contact information for various organizers and related publications like "Energivågen" and "Veta Mera" is provided.

Tankarna Förvandlar (Thoughts Transform)

Peter Koestenbaum explains the concept of the 'total human' as concentric circles of self, body, emotions, thoughts, family, profession, country, and world. He argues that any change in one part affects the whole system, and by changing our thoughts, we can change our world. He emphasizes that thoughts are the area over which we have the most control.

Strokes: Betydelsen av Strokes/Stroke-balansen (The Meaning of Strokes/Stroke Balance)

This extensive article, drawing from Time Manager International, discusses the concept of 'strokes' as any form of attention, positive or negative, physical or psychological. It posits that a positive stroke balance leads to winners, while a negative balance leads to losers. The article highlights the critical importance of the 'first 4 minutes' of any encounter in shaping perceptions and relationships, particularly at home and at work. It also touches upon the detrimental effects of 'zero strokes' (lack of attention) and the human tendency to seek strokes, even negative ones, if positive ones are scarce. The article suggests that a lack of strokes can lead to various behavioral issues and even mental illness.

Väck Liv i Ditt Företag! (Bring Life to Your Business!)

This is an advertisement for a motivational development program called "Väck liv i ditt företag" offered by Time Manager Svenska AB, encouraging interested parties to request more information or a personal discussion.

Gita Förenklad (Gita Simplified)

A poetic retelling of a story inspired by the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing themes of love, service, and spiritual guidance.

Statsmannaord (Statesman's Words)

This section presents quotes from Ronald Reagan and Yuri Andropov regarding disarmament and peace between the USA and the Soviet Union, advocating for a reduction in nuclear weapons and mutual respect.

Född att Tjäna (Born to Serve)

A spiritual message about the importance of serving others, even amidst suffering, drawing from a Master's guidance.

Vad är Veganism? (What is Veganism?)

Jarl Hammarberg explains veganism as an extension of pacifism and non-violence to include animals. He argues that the production of milk and wool, even in non-industrial settings, involves animal suffering and slaughter. He details the challenges vegans face in identifying animal products in everyday goods and discusses the growing trend towards veganism, partly driven by health concerns.

Andligt Maktmissbruk? (Spiritual Abuse of Power?)

An interview with Annakarin Svedberg, a former Buddhist nun, who expresses critical views on Buddhism. She questions the unquestionable authority of Buddha and criticizes the patriarchal structure of Buddhism, which she believes discriminates against women. She advocates for a more egalitarian and less dogmatic approach to spirituality, emphasizing personal experience and reality over dogma.

Gallup om Nära-döden-upplevelser (Gallup on Near-Death Experiences)

This article summarizes findings from a Gallup poll on near-death experiences (NDEs) in America, noting their prevalence and the common themes reported by those who have had them. It also mentions that scientists and doctors tend to dismiss or explain away NDEs.

Hans Bender Hedrad (Hans Bender Honored)

Reports that parapsychologist Hans Bender has received a German state award for his work in the field.

Recensioner (Reviews)

• Several book reviews are included:
• Entropi: En ny världsbild (Entropy: A New Worldview) by Jeremy Rifkin, reviewed by Kjell Walter, discusses the concept of entropy and its implications for environmental sustainability, though the reviewer finds it lacking in deeper philosophical answers.
• Daoism (Taoism) by Jean Cooper, reviewed by Kjell Walter, introduces Taoist philosophy and its relation to Western thought, with the reviewer noting some generalizations and a focus on differences rather than similarities.
• Den invigde (The Initiate), a book attributed to Cyril Scott, reviewed by Sten Rodhe, is described as a spiritual narrative about a wise man named Justin Moreward Haig, emphasizing themes of selfless love and service.
• I Vindarnas land (In the Land of Winds) by Patrik Bladh, reviewed by Nils-Olof Jacobson, is a philosophical fairy tale about a boy's spiritual journey, exploring themes of love, unity, and the divine.

Kontakt (Contact)

This section includes personal ads seeking friends with shared interests in alternative lifestyles, philosophy, and spirituality.

NYHET! ...särskilt för diabetiker och cancerdrabbade (NEW! ...especially for diabetics and cancer sufferers)

An advertisement for a therapeutic magnetic coil with an 8-ring design, claimed to be effective for treating diabetes and cancer.

En ny världsbild (A New Worldview)

This article discusses the concept of a 'world soul' or 'world body' and introduces Jeremy Rifkin's book "Entropi" as proposing a new paradigm based on thermodynamics, emphasizing the need for energy conservation to prevent planetary collapse.

Recensioner (Reviews) - Continued

• Örter Magiska Hälsobringare (Herbs Magical Health Bringers) by Paul Twitchell, a book on the healing properties of herbs.
• Eckankar, Nyckeln till hemliga världar (Eckankar, The Key to Secret Worlds) by Paul Twitchell, introducing Eckankar as a path to spiritual freedom.

Solros (Sunflower)

A short poem by Gunnar Caldenby reflecting on growth and transformation.

Horoskop Övernaturligt (Horoscope Supernatural)

A mention of the magazine "Astrologer" which features articles on the unknown and divination.

BLI FRI I DITT TÄNKANDE (Be Free in Your Thinking)

An advertisement for a health retreat at Mistelgården offering programs on fasting, reincarnation, meditation, and more.

Upprop (Appeal)

An appeal for financial support for Sister Yeshe Palmo, a Buddhist nun suffering from a serious illness.

Vad är Veganism? (What is Veganism?) - Continued

Jarl Hammarberg continues his discussion on veganism, linking it to the concept of non-violence and the development of human consciousness. He suggests that the evolution of humanity is moving towards a vegetarian society and that veganism is a further step in this progression.

Andligt Maktmissbruk? (Spiritual Abuse of Power?) - Continued

Annakarin Svedberg further elaborates on her critique of Buddhism, questioning its origins and the potential for spiritual abuse. She emphasizes the importance of personal experience and critical thinking over dogma.

Gallup om Nära-döden-upplevelser (Gallup on Near-Death Experiences) - Continued

This section continues the discussion on NDEs, noting that scientists and doctors often dismiss these experiences.

Hans Bender Hedrad (Hans Bender Honored) - Continued

Confirms Hans Bender's award for his work in parapsychology.

Recensioner (Reviews) - Continued

• Daoism (Taoism): The review continues, with the reviewer Kjell Walter expressing reservations about Jean Cooper's generalizations and her focus on differences between Eastern and Western traditions.

En invigd (An Initiate)

Sten Rodhe reviews "Den invigde," a book purportedly inspired by a spiritual master, highlighting its themes of selfless love and service.

I Vindarnas land (In the Land of Winds)

Nils-Olof Jacobson reviews Patrik Bladh's philosophical fairy tale, noting its simple language and themes of love, unity, and the divine.

Recensioner (Reviews) - Continued

• Örter Magiska Hälsobringare and Eckankar, Nyckeln till hemliga världar by Paul Twitchell are briefly mentioned.

Solros (Sunflower)

A short poem by Gunnar Caldenby.

Horoskop Övernaturligt (Horoscope Supernatural)

An advertisement for the magazine "Astrologer."

BLI FRI I DITT TÄNKANDE (Be Free in Your Thinking)

An advertisement for a retreat at Mistelgården.

Upprop (Appeal)

An appeal for donations for Sister Yeshe Palmo.

Recensioner (Reviews) - Continued

• Daoism (Taoism): The review concludes, with the reviewer finding the book insightful despite some criticisms.

En ny världsbild (A New Worldview)

This article continues its discussion on Jeremy Rifkin's "Entropi," emphasizing the scientific basis of thermodynamics and the need for energy conservation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes themes of personal growth, spiritual exploration, holistic health, and alternative ways of living. There's a strong emphasis on self-awareness, critical thinking, and questioning established norms, whether in religion, society, or personal relationships. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards unconventional ideas and practices, encouraging readers to seek their own truths and paths to well-being. There's a recurring critique of dogma and authoritarianism, particularly within religious contexts, and a promotion of non-violence and compassion. The magazine also seems to advocate for a more balanced perspective, acknowledging both the analytical (yang) and intuitive (yin) aspects of life and thought.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 10, 1983
Date: October 1983
Publisher: Sökaren (Editor and Publisher: Sven Magnusson)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Focus: An independent journal for life-view issues.

Editorial: Kulturkonservatismen belönar (Cultural Conservatism is Rewarded)

The editorial, signed 'SM', expresses gratitude for the 35,000 SEK grant from the Swedish Arts Council, noting it's the same amount as the previous year. However, it criticizes the council for undervaluing Sökaren compared to publications like 'Jury' (for detective fiction, 85,000 SEK) and 'Jules Verne-magasinet' (for science fiction, 50,000 SEK). The author argues that the council favors traditional and mediocre content, lacking an appreciation for new and revolutionary ideas. Publications focusing on 'alternative Nobel Prizes', New Age ideals, and human potential are seen as less valued than detective stories. The editorial laments that while 'Janus' (a literary journal) received 60,000 SEK and 'Rallarros' (similar circulation) received 100,000 SEK, and the communist 'Kommentar' received 175,000 SEK, Sökaren's focus on new thoughts, new humanism, new consciousness, new research, holistic views, and parapsychology is not as highly regarded financially. The editorial concludes that societal institutions are conservative, and innovators are found outside them.

Featured Articles and Content

• Monica Seilitz:
• "Festival för kropp, själ och ande" (Festival for body, soul, and spirit) - Page 2

• Åsa Freij:
• "Företagskonferens om andlig utveckling" (Business conference on spiritual development) - Page 8

• SM (Articles):
• "Från Bibeln till maskinen till den obegränsade människan" (From the Bible to the machine to the unlimited human) - Page 10
• "Människa, förnya dig!" (Human, renew yourself!) - Page 12
• "Att bli hela människor..." (Becoming whole humans...) - Page 16
• "Självförvandling" (Self-transformation) - Page 18
• "Planetary Initiative" - Page 22
• "Klapp, min vän..." (Pat, my friend...) - Page 24
• "Andligt maktmissbruk?" (Spiritual abuse of power?) - Page 32

• Jarl Hammarberg:
• "Vad är veganism?" (What is veganism?) - Page 30

Advertising and Subscription Information

• Subscription Prices:
• Full year (10 issues): 102 SEK (1984 price: 110 SEK)
• Half year: 54 SEK (1984 price: 60 SEK)

• Contact Information:
• Editor and Publisher: Sven Magnusson
• Address: Östra Kanalgatan 18, 652 20 Karlstad
• Phone: 054/11 16 89
• Postgiro: 70 60 47-8
• Bankgiro: 372-8128

• Advertising Prices (VAT included):
• Full page: 1,000 SEK
• Half page: 600 SEK
• Small ads: 20 SEK per column-cm (minimum 60 SEK)

Printing: Prinkipo, Stockholm

Back Cover Advertisement:

The back cover features an advertisement for "Stefan Stenudds horoskop BESKRIVER DIN FRAMTID" (Stefan Stenudd's horoscope DESCRIBES YOUR FUTURE) with an introduction discount. It offers a personalized future horoscope of 40-60 pages for the next year, analyzed by Swedish astrologers Ulla Sallert, Jens Jerndal, Stefan Stenudd, and Arne Örngren. A guarantee of full satisfaction or money back is provided. Options include an annual horoscope (Årshoroskop) for 248 SEK (introductory price) or a character horoscope (AstroPorträtt) for 194 SEK. A combined offer is available for 392 SEK. Pre-payment offers an additional 15 SEK discount per horoscope. The advertisement includes a form to fill out with name, address, and birth details (date, time, place).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around alternative lifestyles, spiritual development, and personal growth, encompassing topics like New Age philosophy, astrology, and self-transformation. The editorial stance is critical of established cultural institutions, particularly governmental arts funding bodies, which are perceived as being resistant to new ideas and favoring more conventional or conservative forms of expression. The magazine positions itself as a platform for "innovators" and those exploring unconventional perspectives, suggesting that true progress and new thinking often occur outside of mainstream institutional support.