Sokaren - 1984 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR2
Volume: 21
Date: 1984

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1984, presents a diverse range of topics, from the "Alternative Nobel Prize" to discussions on human potential and critical examinations of pseudoscience.

The Alternative Nobel Prize

The cover story highlights the "Alternative Nobel Prize" awarded in 1983. The prize, totaling 350,000 Swedish kronor, was shared by:

• Ibedul Gibbons: Chief of the Palau Islands, recognized for his successful campaign against US attempts to place nuclear weapons in his nation.
• Amory and Hunter Lovins: An American couple lauded for their research and education on "soft," small-scale, renewable energy.
• Manfred A. Max-Neef: A Chilean economist, referred to as the "barefoot economist," who advocates for practical, self-help solutions in developing communities.

An honorary award was given to Leopold Kohr, an Austrian economist and philosopher, considered the spiritual father of the "small is beautiful" movement, for his early advocacy of small-scale principles.

The award ceremony took place in Stockholm's Kulturhus, described as a simple event with Chilean harp music and refreshments. The founder of the prize, Jakob von Yxkull, delivered an opening address emphasizing the world's dire state and the inspirational contributions of the laureates.

Hövdingen på Palau (The Chief of Palau)

Ibedul Gibbons shared his story of the Palau Islands, a nation striving for independence and freedom from nuclear weapons, despite pressure from the USA. He highlighted the importance of the prize in drawing international attention to his land's struggle for peace and disarmament.

Lovins för "mjuk" energi (Lovins for "soft" energy)

Amory and Hunter Lovins, described as nuclear power opponents, presented logical arguments against nuclear energy and advocated for "soft," renewable energy sources. They also addressed the dangers of nuclear proliferation, suggesting unconventional measures to avert war, such as international troop exchanges and fostering friendships between political leaders' children in opposing nations.

Manfred A. Max-Neef: The "Barefoot Economist"

Manfred A. Max-Neef, a Chilean economist, is profiled for his practical approach to development. He emphasizes utilizing local resources and fostering self-confidence and work ethic in impoverished communities, rather than relying on large government projects. He founded CEPAUR (Center for Study and Promotion of Urban, Rural and Development Alternatives) and has worked with UNICEF projects.

Leopold Kohr: Prophet of Smallness

Leopold Kohr, an 82-year-old Austrian former university lecturer, received a special honorary award. He is recognized as a pioneer of the small-scale philosophy, advocating for decentralized, smaller political units. His work, though not translated into Swedish, includes titles like "The Breakdown of Nations" and "The Over-developed Nations."

Debates on Pseudoscience and Science

Är Tolly Burkan ett bedrägeri? (Is Tolly Burkan a fraud?)

This section features a letter from Nils-Olof Jacobson responding to an article by Örjan Björkhem about firewalking. Jacobson defends his experience with Tolly Burkan's firewalking course, arguing that it is a mental preparation exercise and refuting claims that it is a "bluff" or fraud. He criticizes Björkhem's generalized statements and the difficulty of proving or disproving the subjective nature of such experiences.

Jean Houston: Seeking the Limits of Human Potential

Psychologist Jean Houston is presented as someone who believes humans utilize only a fraction of their mental capacity. She teaches methods to enhance this capacity through visualization, guided fantasy, and biofeedback. Her work, detailed in books like "Mind Games," aims to help individuals achieve a richer, deeper, and more intelligent life. Houston's methods are described as practical tools for self-development and improving one's connection to the world.

Rupert Sheldrake: A Heretical Genius?

Plant physiologist Rupert Sheldrake is discussed for his controversial book "A New Science of Life." Sheldrake proposes the existence of "morphic fields" that influence the formation and behavior of organisms, challenging purely mechanistic explanations in biology. The article notes the strong negative reaction from the scientific establishment, with the journal Nature calling his book "the best candidate for burning."

Humanetik i Sverige (Humanism in Sweden)

An interview with Anders Aspegren, chairman of the Humanist Ethical Association, explores his views on humanism and its contrast with religion. Aspegren criticizes religious dogma, particularly Christianity, arguing that it is based on unproven claims and has historically been a source of conflict. He advocates for a secular ethical framework based on reason and empathy, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and open dialogue.

Försvar för den vetenskapliga kunskapsvägen (Defense of the Scientific Path of Knowledge)

An interview with Sven Ove Hansson, chairman of the Association for Science and Education (Föreningen Vetenskap och Folkbildning), discusses the association's mission to promote scientific literacy and combat pseudoscience. Hansson argues for a rigorous scientific approach, emphasizing the need for evidence and testability, particularly in fields like parapsychology and astrology. He stresses the importance of critical examination and the burden of proof lying with those making extraordinary claims.

Other Sections

• Café Vega: A description of a New Age café in Stockholm that hosts lectures and seminars on self-development topics.
• Sai Baba: A brief mention of the Indian guru Sai Baba and claims of his supernatural abilities, contrasted with skepticism regarding illusionism.
• Medicin (Medicine): An article on the healing power of forgiveness, presented by physician Rick Ingrasci.
• Personlighetsklyvning (Personality Dissociation): A discussion on multiple personality disorder, its increasing prevalence, and its potential link to childhood trauma.
• Hundraåringarnas hemlighet (The Secret of the Centenarians): A brief note on the longevity of people in the Abkhazian ASSR, attributed to their continued usefulness in society.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently champions a rational, scientific worldview, actively challenging what it perceives as pseudoscience, dogma, and uncritical belief. There's a strong emphasis on critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and the defense of scientific methodology. The articles promote self-development and human potential but ground these concepts in empirical observation and logical analysis rather than mystical or unverified claims. The editorial stance is clearly secular and humanistic, advocating for a society free from the perceived negative influences of religious dogma and pseudoscientific claims.

This issue of "Sökaren" (The Seeker), dated 1984, delves into the complex historical interplay between Christianity, Mosaic Law, and Swedish legal and social structures. The main article, "Hur kristendom och mosaisk lag påverkat svensk rättsskipning" (How Christianity and Mosaic Law Affected Swedish Justice) by Östen Kjellman, forms the core of the content, examining the profound and often detrimental impact of these influences on Swedish society.

Christianity and Mosaic Law in Swedish Justice

Kjellman argues that the introduction of Christianity and the adoption of Mosaic Law, particularly from the 12th century onwards, led to a significant shift in Swedish legal practices. The article details how church impositions, such as tithes and various fees, impoverished the Swedish peasantry while enriching the clergy. It highlights the decline in women's status, contrasting the relative equality found in pre-Christian Germanic laws and sagas with the more restrictive norms introduced by the church. Examples include the loss of women's autonomy in marriage decisions and the stricter legal frameworks.

The piece also scrutinizes the harshness of punishments that emerged under the influence of Mosaic Law, such as the talion principle ("an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth"), which replaced earlier systems of fines. The Reformation in the 16th century is presented as a critical period when Mosaic Law was more rigorously applied, with King Gustav Vasa and later Karl IX playing significant roles in incorporating Old Testament legal codes into Swedish legislation. This led to severe penalties for offenses like blasphemy and swearing, often citing divine command as justification.

The article notes that while the Talmud offered a more lenient interpretation of Mosaic Law, Swedish reformers largely ignored it, opting for a stricter application of the Old Testament statutes. The influence of Mosaic Law persisted for centuries, with its principles being cited even in the 18th and 19th centuries. The piece also touches upon the introduction of superstitions and the transformation of social structures, including the shift from serfdom to a new form of dependent labor.

The Enlightenment and the Shift Away from Mosaic Law

With the advent of the Enlightenment in the 18th century, a movement towards more humane legal practices began. The article points to reforms initiated by Gustav III, which aimed to abolish torture and reduce death sentences for various offenses, consciously breaking with the strictures of Mosaic Law. Despite these reforms, the influence of Mosaic Law continued to be defended by some, particularly the clergy, who cited biblical passages to justify severe punishments.

The Ten Commandments and Their Relevance

A section critically examines the Ten Commandments, questioning their relevance in modern society and suggesting that other ethical principles, such as truthfulness, empathy, and mutual aid, might be more fitting for contemporary life.

UFOs and Spirituality

Beyond the historical legal analysis, the magazine features articles exploring contemporary themes of spirituality and the unexplained. "UFO-romantik" recounts the story of Elizabeth Klarer, who claimed to have had romantic encounters with an extraterrestrial named Akon and bore him a child. The article "Tankekorn" (Thought Grains) by Eva Dabelius offers aphorisms on life, spirituality, and personal growth.

Djurskydd och icke-våld på fågelsjukhus i Delhi (Animal Protection and Non-violence at a Bird Hospital in Delhi)

Bertil Falk reports on a unique bird hospital in Old Delhi, run by Jainists, who adhere to the principle of ahimsa (non-violence). The hospital treats injured birds, reflecting a deep respect for all living creatures. Falk notes the challenges faced, such as birds being injured by industrial fans, and highlights the hospital's reliance on donations. He also touches upon the Jain philosophy of vegetarianism as a consequence of non-violence.

Gandhi, Peace, and Non-violence

Another article by Bertil Falk discusses the growing peace movement and the re-publication of Mahatma Gandhi's writings in Swedish. Falk emphasizes Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence (ahimsa) as a powerful counter to the threat of nuclear weapons and violence in general. He quotes Gandhi's view that the revulsion caused by nuclear weapons might only be temporary, and that true peace requires a fundamental shift towards non-violence and love.

Book Reviews

The issue includes several book reviews:

• "Kyrkan väntar på en ny Luther" (The Church Awaits a New Luther): This review discusses Carl Gustaf Boëthius's critique of the Swedish Church, arguing for a new reformer to address outdated doctrines and a perceived lack of relevance.
• "Gud, finns det?" (God, Does He Exist?): This review of J.L. Mackie's "The Miracle of Theism" critiques the simplistic definition of God often used by atheists and suggests that the concept of God is far more complex and multifaceted.
• "Till Livets Älskare" (To the Lover of Life): A review of a book by Claes Appelkuist.
• "Resa till Tibet" (Journey to Tibet): A review of Tomas Löfström's book about his travels in Tibet, noting its improved effectiveness and broader scope compared to his previous works.
• "Lis Andersen om Sai Baba": A review of Lis Andersen's book detailing her experiences at Sai Baba's ashram in India, offering a nuanced perspective on the guru and her own spiritual journey.
• "Skapande samspel" (Creative Interaction): A review of a book by Björn Sjövall.
• "Jean Effel's "Skapelsen" (Creation)": A review of the satirical works of French artist Jean Effel, who humorously depicts biblical creation stories.

Other Sections

The magazine also includes a section on "Kontakt" (Contact) with personal ads and requests for travel companions, a list of donations received, and a section on "Läsvärdesundersökning" (Readability Survey) analyzing reader feedback on previous articles. It also features "Drömkurs" (Dream Course) information from IPPF and a brief mention of "Babaji's Kriya Yoga."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

"Sökaren" consistently explores themes of alternative spirituality, esotericism, historical religious and legal influences, and personal growth. The magazine appears to champion critical thinking, questioning established religious and societal norms, and advocating for a more open and inclusive approach to spirituality. There is a clear interest in exploring non-traditional paths to understanding the divine and the human condition, often contrasting these with the perceived rigidity and outdatedness of mainstream religious institutions. The editorial stance seems to favor a holistic view of life, emphasizing personal experience, non-violence, and a search for deeper meaning beyond conventional frameworks.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: No. 2, 1984
Date: February 1984
Publisher: Värmlandstryck i Karlstad AB
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Annual subscription (10 issues) 110 SEK, Half-year 60 SEK.
Editor and Publisher: Sven Magnusson
Address: Östra Kanalgatan 18, 652 20 Karlstad, Sweden

Cover Story: Name Change Debate

The cover of this issue prominently features the question "Namnbyte?" (Name Change?). The editorial content explores whether the current name, "Sökaren" (The Seeker), is appropriate or if it carries too many religious associations. The magazine asks its readers for their opinions and suggestions for a new name, proposing that a neutral name might be more suitable. Examples of other magazines with Latin-derived names like Nexus, Arcanum, Pax, and Signum are mentioned. The magazine offers a prize of a three-year subscription to anyone who suggests a winning new name, with the prize being shared if multiple people suggest the same successful name.

Featured Articles and Contents:

The issue includes a variety of articles and features:

• "Alternativa nobelpriset" (Alternative Nobel Prize) by Åsa Freij.
• "Är Tolly Burkan ett bedrägeri?" (Is Tolly Burkan a Fraud?) by Nils-Olof Jacobson.
• Jean Houston (SM).
• "På Café Vega" (At Café Vega) (SM).
• Rupert Sheldrake (SM).
• "Humanetik i Sverige" (Humanetics in Sweden) (SM).
• "Försvar för den vetenskapliga kunskapsvägen" (Defense of the Scientific Path of Knowledge) (SM).
• "Hur mosaisk lag påverkat svensk rätt" (How Mosaic Law Has Influenced Swedish Law) by Östen Kjellman.
• "Fågelsjukhus i Delhi" (Bird Hospital in Delhi) by Bertil Falk.
• Hans Hof, en teolog i tiden? (Hans Hof, a Theologian in His Time?) (SM).
• "Kärnvapen, Gandhi, fred och ickevåld" (Nuclear Weapons, Gandhi, Peace, and Non-violence) by Bertil Falk.
• "Läsvärdesundersökning" (Readability Survey).

Editorial Stance and Themes

The magazine positions itself as an "Oberoende tidskrift för livssynsfrågor" (Independent magazine for questions of worldview/philosophy of life). The debate about the magazine's name suggests an openness to reader feedback and a willingness to adapt. The articles cover a range of topics including alternative spirituality, critiques of certain figures or movements, scientific and philosophical defense, historical legal influences, social issues like peace and non-violence, and cultural observations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Sökaren appears to cover a broad spectrum of topics related to spirituality, philosophy, alternative lifestyles, and societal issues. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation, and exploring diverse perspectives, from scientific defense to the influence of historical laws and contemporary ethical dilemmas like nuclear weapons. The magazine is committed to providing independent commentary on matters of worldview and life philosophy.