Sokaren - 1985 No 09

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 9
Volume: 22
Date: 1985
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Price: 15:00 INKL MOMS

This issue of "Sökaren" (The Seeker) magazine, dated 1985, features a prominent cover story on Gerald Jampolsky, a psychiatrist who explains the nature of love. The magazine also includes an extensive interview with J. Allen Hynek, a renowned astronomer and UFO expert, and delves into themes of spirituality, New Age philosophy, and critiques of traditional religious doctrines.

Gerald Jampolsky: Love and Forgiveness

The lead article introduces Gerald Jampolsky, a 55-year-old American psychiatrist whose life was transformed by the realization that "love is letting go of fear." Previously, despite outward success, he experienced inner turmoil, a failed marriage, and a critical view of spiritual paths. His transformation began after studying "A Course in Miracles," a text he found to be profound spiritual wisdom dictated by an inner voice to Helen Schucman. Jampolsky embraced the course's teachings, which posit that love and fear are the only two emotions, and that fear stems from erroneous thinking. He learned that forgiveness is the key to releasing fear, seeing others as blameless, and achieving inner peace. The article highlights Jampolsky's current role as a "missionary for love," spreading his message through his book "Kärlek är att släppa rädslan" (Love is Letting Go of Fear). The Swedish translation was undertaken by Lena Kristina Tuulse, who was inspired by Jampolsky's work.

Jampolsky's philosophy emphasizes that seeking a better life leads to a new consciousness, revealing an inner harmony and love. He asserts that love is the complete absence of fear, allowing one to see reality clearly and recognize the unity of all beings. He also stresses the importance of living in the present moment, free from past guilt or future anxiety. The article includes a critical reflection by an unnamed author, who acknowledges Jampolsky's message but suggests he oversimplifies human psychology, arguing that aggression can have causes beyond mere fear.

J. Allen Hynek: From Skeptic to UFO Expert

The magazine features a lengthy interview with J. Allen Hynek, an astronomer and UFO expert, conducted by Pamela Weintraub. Hynek recounts his journey from a staunch skeptic to a leading authority on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

Hynek initially worked for the U.S. Air Force's Project Blue Book, tasked with debunking UFO reports. He describes his early skepticism, influenced by the scientific establishment's dismissal of such phenomena. However, the quality of witnesses—including pilots and meteorologists—began to challenge his views. He realized that many observations defied conventional explanations, prompting him to investigate further.

He founded the Center for UFO Studies in Evanston, Illinois, in 1972. Hynek developed a classification system for UFO reports, categorizing them into "night lights," "daylight discs," "radar UFOs," and "close encounters" (of the first, second, and third kind). He notes that some phenomena, like cars stalling in the presence of UFOs, could not be replicated by scientific experiments, suggesting they were beyond current understanding.

Hynek discusses his involvement with the Condon Committee, a government study on UFOs. He expresses disappointment, believing the committee was biased from the outset and that its final report, while acknowledging unexplained cases, ultimately dismissed the phenomenon. He criticizes the report's summary for downplaying the unexplained findings.

Hynek also touches upon the controversial topic of alien abductions, referencing the Betty and Barney Hill case. He acknowledges the psychological impact of such experiences but remains cautious about the extraterrestrial hypothesis due to the vast distances involved and the lack of corroborating evidence from astronomical surveys.

He advocates for a more rigorous, scientific approach to UFO research, contrasting it with the amateur-dominated UFO movement. His new research center in Phoenix aims to conduct professional investigations, utilizing a network of experts and advanced technology.

Christianity and Worldviews

Another article, "Kristendomen och världsbilden" (Christianity and the Worldview) by Arvid Odervång, critiques traditional Christian doctrines in light of modern scientific understanding. The author argues that Christianity lacks a comprehensive worldview and fails to address fundamental questions about existence, God, and the afterlife. He points out the discrepancy between the biblical creation timeline and scientific estimates of Earth's age and the universe's vastness.

The article questions the exclusivity of Christian salvation, particularly in the context of a potentially populated universe. It suggests that the concept of a "Cosmic Christ" might offer a more inclusive perspective, reconciling different religious traditions and acknowledging a universal divine presence.

The author also examines the literal interpretation of biblical narratives, contrasting it with symbolic interpretations. He argues that biblical authors intended their accounts as historical events and that modern theology needs to confront these narratives more directly rather than resorting to symbolic explanations.

Other Articles and Themes

The magazine also includes sections on "Kristendomen och världsbilden" (Christianity and the Worldview), which critiques traditional Christian doctrines in light of modern scientific understanding. It questions the exclusivity of Christian salvation and explores the concept of a "Cosmic Christ." Another section discusses the idea that mental attitudes can influence physical health, citing Dr. Bernard Siegel, a surgeon and professor at Yale University, who advocates for the power of positive thinking and inner peace in healing, particularly for cancer patients.

There are also smaller articles and reviews, including a discussion on the "Human Unity" conference, the philosophy of Paul Brunton, and the concept of reincarnation therapy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Sökaren" revolve around the search for meaning, personal transformation, and alternative perspectives on spirituality, consciousness, and the unknown. The magazine appears to champion a New Age outlook, encouraging readers to explore inner peace, love, and forgiveness, while also engaging with scientific inquiry into phenomena like UFOs. There's a critical stance towards rigid, traditional religious dogma, advocating for a more inclusive and scientifically informed spirituality. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to question established beliefs and seek deeper understanding of themselves and the universe.

This issue of the Swedish magazine 'Sökaren' from 1986, titled "Svensk mentalvård är barbarisk, säger malmöterapeut" (Swedish mental healthcare is barbaric, says Malmö psychotherapist), focuses on alternative approaches to mental health, UFO phenomena, and philosophical explorations of consciousness and spirituality.

Mental Healthcare Critiqued and Alternative Therapies

The lead article features psychotherapist Ing-Marie Lundberg Ohlsson from Malmö, who strongly criticizes traditional Swedish psychiatric practices, labeling electroshock therapy as "barbaric" and akin to "killing a part of a person's personality." She advocates for "deep therapy," which she claims can cure severely mentally ill patients diagnosed as incurable. Ohlsson emphasizes that healing involves addressing "arvsynden" (original sin) as a life-hostile behavior passed down through generations due to ignorance, and that true healing comes from processing suppressed grief and pain, rather than comforting the sufferer. She highlights the body's ability to "remember" traumatic experiences from even before birth, which can manifest as physical symptoms. Ohlsson contrasts this with the traditional methods of Swedish mental hospitals, which she believes are outdated and ineffective.

Another significant piece profiles Marianne Thorsell, a woman who overcame suicidal thoughts and severe depression through alternative methods. Thorsell shares her journey, which included psychiatric treatment without significant success, before finding relief through rebirthing and a new-age breathing techniques. She criticizes traditional psychiatry for not understanding people's true problems and advocates for therapies that allow for emotional release, especially aggression, and that incorporate an understanding of the mind's creative power. Thorsell learned rebirthing from its developer, Leonard Orr, in the USA and now helps others through this method.

The magazine also touches upon the concept of "kärlekslängtan" (longing for love) as a driving force in life, which can be distorted into hate. It suggests that children are often used as objects for parental negativity, internalizing these experiences as "symptoms" that require resolution.

UFO Phenomena and Mediumship

Örjan Björkhem contributes a piece titled "Psykometri med engelska medier" (Psychometry with English mediums), detailing his experiments with renowned English mediums Robin Stevens and Doris Stokes. He observes a pattern in the development of mediums and spiritual movements, moving from verification phases to proclamation phases. Björkhem recounts his experiences, noting the mediums' professional yet sometimes evasive approach, and describes specific instances where their readings seemed to align with facts, though he remains cautious about definitive proof due to the subjective nature of such encounters. He discusses theories about psychometry, including a "sound theory" and the idea that objects carry information from their history, ultimately suggesting the term "paranormal object association" might be more fitting.

Another article, "Har de bortförts till UFOn?" (Have they been abducted by UFOs?), discusses research by Budd Hopkins and Ted Bloecher into UFO abduction cases. The article details their methodology, including the use of hypnosis to uncover repressed memories in witnesses. It presents findings from studies involving 25 individuals who reported abduction experiences, with some recalling events without hypnosis and others under hypnosis. The research categorizes these cases and suggests that UFO abductions may be more common than previously thought.

Philosophical and Spiritual Explorations

The issue includes several articles exploring different philosophical and spiritual perspectives on God and consciousness.

"Naturens Gud (Watts)" (Nature's God (Watts)) discusses Alan W. Watts' views on the difference between the Christian atmosphere and the natural world. Watts argues that Christianity is a "city and indoor religion" that doesn't fit the natural world, contrasting it with Taoism's concept of nature growing from within. He suggests that Westerners should discover "Nature's God" rather than the theological abstraction of God, recognizing humanity's integration into natural processes.

"Gud- en gåta" (God - a riddle) presents different theological and philosophical viewpoints. John A. T. Robinson's ideas from "Honest to God" are discussed, questioning the traditional concept of God as an external being and suggesting God is the "depth" of existence, embodying love, wisdom, and righteousness. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's concept of "Punkt Omega" (Point Omega) is explored, describing it as the ultimate point of consciousness and the culmination of evolution, where all phenomena converge. Anders Apelqvist's view of an "amoral intelligence" (Universella Intelligensen) is also presented, suggesting that this intelligence drives evolution ruthlessly, with individual suffering being an illusion from its perspective.

Leo Wikman's perspective on "Allt är medvetande" (Everything is consciousness) is shared, positing that consciousness is the fundamental substance of reality, connecting all beings and the universe itself. The idea that God "dreams" the universe into existence is presented.

Finally, the magazine includes a section on "Ord och Toner" (Word and Tone), featuring reviews of audio cassettes for relaxation and personal development, including guided meditations and affirmations. It also reviews books on various topics, from ancient Norse myths to the right brain's creative potential and the ethics of animal experimentation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the limitations of conventional systems (mental healthcare, science) and the exploration of alternative, often more holistic or spiritual, approaches. There's a strong emphasis on personal responsibility for one's well-being and consciousness. The magazine appears to champion unconventional ideas and research, providing a platform for voices that challenge mainstream paradigms in psychology, spirituality, and the study of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into these areas, encouraging readers to consider different perspectives and possibilities beyond established norms.

Title: Det Okända
Issue: Nr 9, 1985
Date: 1985-09
Publisher: Scan Mag (formerly Tre Mag)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504

This issue of 'Det Okända' (Nr 9, 1985) prominently features the departure of Klaus Aarsleff, a key figure in the Scandinavian paranormal magazine scene. The cover story, "Klaus Aarsleff hoppar av" (Klaus Aarsleff Jumps Off), details his reasons for leaving the sensationalist publication.

Klaus Aarsleff's Departure from Det Okända

The article explains that Klaus Aarsleff, who previously edited a more serious magazine called 'Det Ukendte' in Denmark starting in 1978, became involved with the publisher Scan Mag. Initially, Aarsleff had tried to launch a Swedish version of his magazine, but only one issue was published. He noted in Spring 1984 that while 'Det Okända/Det Ukendte' was entertaining, it was far less critical and in-depth than his own publication.

Within six months, the Danish 'Det Ukendte' became part of the Scandinavian magazine conglomerate Tre Mag, adopting a similar sensationalist and uncritical approach. This shift, according to reports, led to a dramatic increase in circulation from 4,000 for the old 'Det Ukendte' to 40,000 for the pop-version. Despite the increased resources, Aarsleff chose to leave. On June 1, he terminated his collaboration with Scan Mag, deeming the magazine too unserious for his taste and finding the publisher unwilling to change course.

Aarsleff stated his reasons in 'Vision', a new magazine he is now involved with: "I resigned due to increasing dissatisfaction with the sensationalist and completely unreliable journalism that Scan Mag wanted the magazine to embody. The reader should be able to trust the written word. Too many completely unreliable stories and 'ducks' are put together and presented as truth. There have been far too many such dubious stories lately in Det Ukendte. That's why I stopped."

The article commends Aarsleff for foregoing the tenfold increase in circulation and resources to return to more serious work. The new publication, 'Vision', is published by Aarsleff & Friis, with Peter Juhl Svendsen as editor and Aarsleff as responsible publisher. 'Vision' had already been published during Aarsleff's engagement with Scan Mag's sensationalist magazine.

Sources for this information are cited as Skeptica nr 2, 1985, and Vision nr 3, 1985. Additionally, Jan-Ove Sundberg reports in a letter to 'Sökaren' that 'Det Okända' has now ceased publication.

Other Contents

Beyond the main story, the issue includes a variety of articles:

• Gerald Jampolsky: Discusses the transforming power of love.
• Pamela Weintraub: Features an interview with J. Allen Hynek.
• Arvid Odervång: Explores Christianity and the worldview.
• Harald Hjorthén: Critiques Swedish mental healthcare as barbaric.
• Asa Freij: Highlights Marianne Thorsell, who now helps others after receiving help herself.
• Örjan Björkhem: Investigates psychometry with English mediums.
• Håkan Blomqvist: Presents a Swedish "Adamskikontakt" (Adam's contact).
• Nils-Olof Jacobson: Writes about "Ord och toner" (Words and tones), the critic's role, and includes book reviews and critiques.
• Eileen Caddy: Contributes "Footprints on the path."

Publication Details

The magazine 'Sökaren', described as an independent magazine for worldview issues, is edited and published by Sven Magnusson. Its address is Östra Kanalgatan 18, 652 20 Karlstad, Sweden. Subscription prices are listed for 1985 and 1986, along with details for Postgiro and Bankgiro. Advertising prices are also provided, with a note that VAT is included. The printing is done by Värmlandstryck i Karlstad AB, Karlstad, 1985. The ISSN is 0038-0504.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue revolves around the ethics and quality of journalism within the paranormal and sensationalist press, exemplified by Klaus Aarsleff's decision to disassociate himself from 'Det Okända'. The editorial stance, as implied by Aarsleff's actions and the magazine 'Sökaren's' focus on 'livssynsfrågor' (worldview issues), appears to favor critical, reliable, and in-depth reporting over sensationalism. The inclusion of diverse topics ranging from the paranormal to philosophy and mental health suggests a broad interest in exploring different aspects of human experience and belief systems.