Sokaren - 1986 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR2
Volume: 23
Date: 1986

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine, focuses on themes of creativity, personal development, business innovation, and parapsychology.

Tony Buzan: Unleashing Creativity

The lead article introduces Tony Buzan, described as a world-renowned expert on learning methods. Buzan conducted a six-hour seminar where he engaged the audience in an exercise using paper clips to demonstrate the vastness of human creativity. He explained that creativity is measured not just by the number of ideas, but by their originality and departure from normal uses. Buzan emphasized that everyone possesses unlimited creativity, which is often hindered by learned blockages. He asserted that creativity is enhanced by utilizing both hemispheres of the brain, challenging the myth that logical thinkers cannot be creative. Buzan's work integrates modern science with poetry, viewing them as parts of the same creative unit within humans. He has worked with educational institutions in Sweden, including students in Hallonbergen and Carlssons skola in Stockholm.

Buzan believes that women can be independent, intelligent, systematic, and strong, and that this does not diminish their femininity. He also touched upon the concept of wisdom, suggesting that increased wisdom leads to greater detachment from negative emotions like anger and disappointment, though he acknowledges that even enlightened individuals experience pain. He stated that negative emotions are energy-consuming, while love generates energy. Buzan also highlighted the healing power of love, which increases blood circulation and positively affects posture and well-being.

The New Human in the Business World

An article titled "Inom affärsvärlden formas den nya människan" (The New Human is Shaped in the Business World) by Asa Freij and SM, discusses the changing landscape of the business world, characterized by instability and rapid market shifts. It highlights the increasing importance of human resources and creativity in navigating these challenges. The article features Robert L. Schwartz, founder of The Tarrytown Group, who advocates for prioritizing employee well-being and development. Schwartz's "Tarrytown Group" is described as a university for individuals seeking new ideas and personal growth.

The article also mentions Jean Houston, a dynamic consciousness researcher, who participated in a seminar on "The New Age of Education." Hewlett Packard's unconventional leadership style, "management by walking around," is presented as an example of fostering closer relationships between management and employees. The shift from hierarchical structures to more collaborative models is discussed, with a focus on increased employee consciousness and well-being leading to better business outcomes.

Schwartz posits that the current "information age" requires businesses to attract, develop, and retain knowledgeable individuals. He contrasts this with previous eras dominated by land ownership and capital, emphasizing that knowledge is now the primary source of power and that cooperation in knowledge sharing benefits everyone. He outlines a hierarchy of knowledge, from data to wisdom, where wisdom is knowledge applied for the benefit of all.

Schwartz also touches upon human resistance to change and the concept of a "delayed birth" for humans compared to animals, leading to a search for security. He suggests that workplaces often become this source of security, and businesses have a role in nurturing individuals towards independence. The article notes the rise of "new entrepreneurs" in America, who are motivated by personal achievement rather than solely by profit, and who often bring "New Age" ideas to the business world.

Olle Bovin, Head of Education and Development at Hewlett Packard, discusses the importance of a responsible global perspective and new leadership qualities. He describes the "soft" and understanding leader as the strong one in the new era, contrasting them with rigid and impersonal figures.

Arthur Koestler and Parapsychology

Brian Inglis writes about Arthur Koestler's lifelong interest in parapsychology, framing it as a logical progression of his intellectual journey rather than a decline in his faculties. Koestler's early experiences, such as the "oceanic feeling," and his "Credo quia absurdum" advertisement seeking reports of occult experiences, are detailed. The article recounts an experiment with the charlatan Eric Jan Hanussen, which yielded an unexpected result involving a journalist's report. Koestler's political activism as a communist initially suppressed his interest in the occult, but it resurfaced during his imprisonment.

The article highlights Koestler's involvement with the Society for Psychical Research and his critical defense of J. B. Rhine's statistical findings. It mentions his work on synchronicity, particularly in "The Case of the Midwife Toad" and "The Roots of Coincidence." Koestler's skepticism towards the paranormal is noted, yet he acknowledged the existence of phenomena that defied rational explanation. He explored concepts like "the perversity of physics" and drew parallels between quantum theory and psychic phenomena. His later work, such as "The Act of Creation" and "The Ghost in the Machine," touched upon these themes, though often indirectly.

Koestler's later interest extended to alternative therapies, including acupuncture and "laying on of hands," which he initially dismissed but later came to accept. His research into levitation, using a specially designed apparatus, is also discussed. The article concludes by emphasizing that Koestler's engagement with the paranormal was a rational pursuit, driven by a desire to understand the deeper mysteries of existence and human consciousness.

Stanislav Grof: Psychotherapy Rooted in Mysticism

This section focuses on Stanislav Grof, a Czech-American therapist and consciousness researcher, renowned for his work in LSD therapy. Grof's research, initially conducted in Prague and later in the USA, explores the potential of LSD to access deep levels of the unconscious, including memories from early childhood, the perinatal period, and even past lives (transpersonal experiences). He observed that LSD therapy could help patients confront and process traumatic experiences, leading to emotional release and a more harmonious relationship with life and death, particularly beneficial for terminally ill cancer patients.

Grof's findings suggest that sexuality is deeply influenced by prenatal and birth experiences. His research indicates a connection between difficult births and later sexual issues, such as a lack of libido or the development of sadomasochistic tendencies. He proposes that reliving and processing these birth traumas can lead to healing. Grof also posits that sexuality, at its deepest level, is a religious experience, capable of leading to transpersonal states of unity with the universe.

Currently, Grof utilizes breathwork techniques that yield similar results to LSD therapy, allowing access to profound psychological and spiritual states. The article notes that these experiences can have therapeutic value, helping to resolve current life problems by addressing past-life memories.

Reincarnation in Early Christianity?

Per Beskow examines the historical evidence for reincarnation beliefs in early Christianity. He concludes that reincarnation was not a widespread belief in ancient Greece and Rome, nor in early Judaism or Christianity. While figures like Pythagoras and Plato discussed soul transmigration, it remained an esoteric doctrine. In early Christianity, the dominant belief was in a single earthly life followed by resurrection. Beskow argues that Origen, often cited as a proponent of reincarnation, actually polemicized against it. He suggests that ideas of pre-existence of the soul, which Origen explored, were not widely accepted. The article notes that reincarnation ideas were present in surrounding movements like Hermeticism and Gnosticism, and later in Neoplatonism, but did not penetrate mainstream Christian doctrine. Beskow concludes that the idea of reincarnation lacks historical legitimacy in early Christian texts and traditions.

The End of Rajneeshism

An article by Torben Blond details the dramatic events surrounding the dissolution of the Rajneesh movement. Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh announced the end of "Rajneeshism" as a religion, burned books, and declared that followers no longer needed to wear red clothing or malas. This decision followed the departure of Bhagwan's personal secretary, Ma Anand Sheela, and several other key figures, amidst allegations of criminal activities, including murder plots and drug trafficking. The article highlights the internal conflicts and power struggles within the movement, particularly between Bhagwan and Sheela.

Bhagwan accused Sheela of power-grabbing, attempted poisoning, and creating a "slave camp" environment. Sheela, in turn, accused Bhagwan of greed, drug use, and manipulation. The article also touches upon the legal troubles faced by Bhagwan, including his deportation from the USA. The author, a former disciple, expresses confusion and sadness over the events but maintains faith in Bhagwan's teachings. The article notes that while the religious structure of Rajneeshism was dissolved, the core teachings and community activities continue, with a focus on individual responsibility and decentralized organization.

Bertil Kuhlemann: Taking a Stand

Bertil Kuhlemann is presented as a "networker for a new era," advocating for the importance of taking a stand, both personally and globally. He emphasizes that inaction or avoidance of taking a stand is itself a form of taking a stand, often with negative consequences. Kuhlemann highlights that people tend to take stands against things more often than for them, but argues for the positive psychological impact of taking a stand for something. He uses examples like Albert Schweitzer and Mahatma Gandhi to illustrate the profound influence of individual stances.

Kuhlemann discusses how individuals often downplay the significance of their own actions, but stresses that even small contributions can lead to significant change. He points to the "Hunger Project" initiated by Werner Erhard as an example of collective action to address global issues. The article also touches upon the role of democracy in requiring not just participation but also responsibility. It suggests that current work structures may limit individuals' ability to engage in meaningful societal contributions. The article concludes with an example of Kuhlemann's daughter's initiative to plant trees globally by 2010, demonstrating the power of personal commitment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of human potential, consciousness expansion, and alternative approaches to personal and societal well-being. There is a strong emphasis on challenging conventional norms and embracing new perspectives, whether in creativity, business, psychology, or spirituality. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, presenting diverse viewpoints and complex issues with a degree of depth, while also acknowledging the subjective nature of some of these explorations. The articles often highlight the transformative power of self-awareness and personal growth.

Title: Alternativa nobelpriset
Issue Date: December 9, 1985
Cover Headline: Alternativa nobelpriset blir alltmer respekterat (Alternative Nobel Prize becomes increasingly respected)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

The Right Livelihood Award Ceremony

The article reports on the sixth annual presentation of the Alternative Nobel Prize, held on December 9th in Stockholm. The award, officially known as The Right Livelihood Award, is increasingly respected and seen as a complement rather than a protest against the traditional Nobel Prize. Jakob von Yxkull, founder of The Right Livelihood Foundation, emphasized that the prize is for those who engage and live by their convictions, acting as realists in abnormal times.

Thor Heyerdahl, a jury member, and Palle Granditsky were present. The ceremony featured musical performances and acceptance speeches from the award recipients. The event concluded with a gathering at Sjöfartshuset.

The overarching theme for the 1985 awards was 'Human rights and power for the powerless.'

Award Recipients and Their Work

Pat Mooney (Canada) and Cary Fowler (USA)

Mooney and Fowler received an award for their pioneering work in preventing the depletion of the genetic heritage of cultivated plants, especially for the benefit of developing countries. They highlight the threat to plant diversity and the control of global gene banks by large corporations. They advocate for the preservation of hardy, locally adapted plant varieties crucial for developing nations, contrasting them with high-yield varieties favored by industrialized nations.

Janos Vargha (Hungary)

Representing the organization Duna Kör, Vargha was recognized for his environmental activism. Duna Kör, founded by biologist Vargha, has mobilized significant opposition to a large hydroelectric project that threatened to destroy drinking water sources and agricultural land in extensive areas. Vargha criticized the Hungarian state for prioritizing productivity over human needs and ecological considerations.

Rajni Kothari (India)

Kothari, an author, founded the grassroots organization Lokayan, meaning 'dialogue with the people.' Lokayan aims to strengthen and unite small communities working for human rights, women's liberation, and environmental protection. Kothari emphasized the vast gap between the powerful and the powerless in India, and the need for dialogue to bridge this divide. He noted the significant role of the women's movement in driving social change.

Theo van Boven (Netherlands)

Van Boven received an honorary award for his commitment to seeking justice and hope for the oppressed and disenfranchised. He previously headed the UN's human rights division and is now a professor of international law. His work focuses on human rights, advocating against nuclear weapons, regional conflicts, discrimination, and torture. He champions the 'third system' of grassroots movements and individual initiatives as a vital force for change, distinct from political-military and financial systems.

The Right Livelihood Award Philosophy

'Right Livelihood' is defined as 'living rightly on Earth,' which involves not exploiting more than one's share of resources and taking responsibility for the consequences of one's actions. The award supports practical solutions to threats like nuclear war, environmental degradation, poverty, and spiritual emptiness in wealthy nations. The Right Livelihood Foundation is independent of political or religious groups and seeks to offer an alternative to conventional award systems, valuing traditional folk knowledge, especially from the Third World.

Related Articles and Sections

Mooney and Fowler: Saving Gene Banks from Corporate Control

This section elaborates on Mooney and Fowler's campaign to draw attention to the plight of cultivated plant genetic resources. They argue that the world's gene banks are largely controlled by large corporations for commercial gain, leading to the neglect of valuable, locally adapted varieties needed in developing countries. They advocate for international gene banks under UN protection.

Duna Kör Protests: Environment Sacrificed for Growth

This part details Duna Kör's protest against a dam construction on the Danube River in Hungary. Janos Vargha explains how the project threatens forests, aquatic life, and drinking water, impacting not only Hungary but also Central Europe. He criticizes the government's prioritization of growth and the suppression of environmental movements.

Lokayan: A Network of Grassroots Movements

Rajni Kothari discusses Lokayan's mission to empower the poor and voiceless in India by broadening democracy and fostering dialogue. He highlights the stark division between the powerful and the powerless in India and the role of women's movements in advocating for social change.

Honorary Award for Justice Advocacy

Theo van Boven's honorary award is detailed, focusing on his lifelong struggle for human rights and justice for the oppressed. His critique of the arms race and global inequality, and his belief in the power of grassroots movements, are highlighted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently champions alternative perspectives, focusing on environmentalism, human rights, peace, and grassroots activism. It critiques established systems and promotes solutions that prioritize human well-being and ecological balance. The editorial stance appears to be one of support for individuals and organizations challenging conventional norms and working towards a more just and sustainable world. The issue highlights the growing respect for the Alternative Nobel Prize and the importance of recognizing those who work for the 'powerless.' The articles delve into specific cases and movements, providing detailed information and context for the award recipients' work.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 2, 1986
Date: February 1986
Publisher: Sökaren (Redaktör och ansvarig utgivare: Sven Magnusson)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Helår (10 nr) 140:-, Halvår 80:-
Cover Headline: Vågar du förändra ditt liv?

Reader Letters and Subscription Analysis

The issue opens with a section titled 'Röster' (Voices), featuring letters from subscribers discussing their reasons for renewing or not renewing their subscriptions. Several subscribers express appreciation for the magazine's quality and uniqueness, while others cite reasons such as information overload, a perceived focus on 'false prophets,' or financial constraints. One reader notes that the magazine is 'good and necessary in our time' but suggests there are 'too many articles about UFOs.' Another wishes for more 'crazy, strong positively booming articles' instead of those with a 'negative resignation.'

Articles and Features

Creativity and Self-Help

• Tony Buzan wants us to understand how fantastic we are! Creativity is happiness. Creativity is success! (Asa Freij) - This section highlights Tony Buzan's ideas on creativity.
• The new human is being shaped in the business world. (Asa Freij and SM) - Discusses the transformation of the business world and the rise of new entrepreneurs.
• New entrepreneurs (in America) constitute a veritable brotherhood of self-realization! - Continues the theme of entrepreneurship.
• Kreativ Visualisering by Shakti Gawain: Advertised on pages 3 and 4, this section promotes a book and workbook on creative visualization, described as a practical guide to achieving positive changes in life, increasing vitality, developing talents, and reaching goals. It is noted as a bestseller in the USA and is used in fields like psychology, health, education, and management.

Parapsychology and Spirituality

• Arthur Koestler and parapsychology. (Brian Inglis) - Explores Koestler's work and the importance of psi phenomena.
• The doctrine of reincarnation in early Christianity? (Per Beskow) - Investigates the presence of reincarnation beliefs in early Christian texts.
• End of Rajneeshism. (SM) - A brief note on the Rajneesh movement.
• Omskakande upplevelser. (Rabia Prabhudasi Lundberg) - Describes transformative experiences related to 'Bhagwan's message' of freedom, truth, and love.
• What is happening with guru Bhagwan? (Torben Blond) - Questions surrounding the guru Bhagwan.
• Stanislav Grof's psychotherapy is rooted in mysticism. (SM) - Connects Grof's therapeutic methods with mystical experiences.

UFOs and Alternative Science

• On the UFO front. The Helge case, part 2. (Håkan Blomqvist) - Continues a discussion on a specific UFO incident.
• Where is the free energy? (Nils-Olof Jacobson) - Explores the concept of free energy.
• Can perpetual motion machines really exist? - Questions the feasibility of perpetual motion devices.
• The Prophet. (Sven Rosén) - Discusses the reappearance of a figure known as 'Profeten' after being missing, with new experiences from the 'hindu world.'
• Footprints on the path. (Eileen Caddy) - Likely a spiritual or self-help piece.

Other Articles

• Bertil Kuhlemann on how we take a stand. (Asa Freij) - Discusses forming opinions and taking stances.
• The Alternative Nobel Prize is becoming increasingly respected. (Asa Freij) - Highlights the growing recognition of the Alternative Nobel Prize.
• Occult fantasies and well-known facts. (K. E. Steffens) - Explores the intersection of occult themes and factual information.
• The debate continues. - A concluding remark suggesting ongoing discussion.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine 'Sökaren' (The Seeker) positions itself as an 'Oberoende tidskrift för livssynsfrågor' (Independent journal for questions of worldview). The content spans a wide range of topics including spirituality, self-help, parapsychology, UFO phenomena, and alternative science. There is a clear interest in exploring unconventional ideas and personal transformation, as evidenced by the focus on creative visualization, guru teachings, and UFO reports. While some readers express a desire for more variety, the magazine consistently engages with themes of personal growth, spiritual inquiry, and the unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and exploratory, providing a platform for diverse perspectives on life's deeper questions.