Sokaren - 1986 No 06

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR6
Volume/Year: 1986 ÅRGÅNG 23
Date: 1986
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Original Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: Uri Geller – en återblick

This issue of Sökaren focuses on the controversial figure of Uri Geller, exploring his alleged paranormal abilities and the surrounding scientific and skeptical investigations. It delves into his performances, the research conducted by institutions like Stanford Research Institute (SRI), and the critiques from illusionists and scientists.

The Enigma of Uri Geller

The magazine details Uri Geller's rise to fame in the 1970s, where he demonstrated abilities such as bending metal objects with his mind, starting broken watches, and exhibiting telepathy. Born in Tel Aviv in 1946, Geller claimed to have discovered his paranormal gifts as a child. His early career saw success on stages and television, attracting the attention of parapsychologists like Andrija Puharich, who brought him to America in the early 1970s to study his repeatable phenomena.

However, Geller's claims have been met with skepticism. While some believe his abilities are genuine, others, including illusionists, accuse him of being a fraud. The article notes that Geller himself stated he needed people around him to perform, suggesting a possible reliance on external energy or influence. He also admitted to using tricks at times, particularly when pressured by managers.

Stanford Research Institute (SRI) Investigations

In 1972, researchers Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff at SRI in Menlo Park, California, conducted laboratory experiments with Uri Geller. Their findings, published in the prestigious journal 'Nature' in 1974, suggested evidence for psi phenomena, particularly in the area of clairvoyance. They designed experiments to rule out conventional explanations, including tests where Geller had to replicate drawings made by others while in a visually and acoustically isolated room. Despite the report's publication, it faced criticism regarding its methodology and the potential for trickery.

Geller explained that he struggled to perform under strict laboratory conditions, especially when he couldn't touch the objects or have people around him. He felt that the controlled environment hindered his abilities, whereas large audiences seemed to enhance them.

Skepticism and Critiques

Illusionists and skeptics, most notably James Randi and physicist Joseph Hanlon, have strongly challenged Geller's claims. Hanlon, in a lengthy article in 'New Scientist', suggested that Geller might have used a miniature radio receiver, possibly supplied by his friend Andrija Puharich, to cheat. He also pointed to instances where Geller's performances seemed to involve trickery, such as bending spoons or keys when attention was diverted.

James Randi, a professional illusionist, published a book, 'The Magic of Uri Geller,' in 1975, arguing that Geller exclusively used tricks. Randi detailed various methods Geller might have employed, often involving misdirection and simple sleight of hand. He also criticized the SRI experiments as being too lenient and susceptible to deception. Randi's own demonstrations aimed to replicate Geller's feats using conventional magic techniques.

However, the article also presents counterarguments from the SRI researchers and others who believe in Geller's abilities. Targ and Puthoff responded to Randi's criticisms, refuting many of his claims and asserting the validity of their research protocols. They emphasized that potential trickery was considered and attempts were made to eliminate it.

Other Perspectives and Related Topics

The issue also touches upon related subjects, including Theosophy and Anthroposophy. An article titled 'Parapsykologin är ingen ovetenskap!' (Parapsychology is not Pseudoscience!) by Göran Brusewitz and Jens Tellefsen defends parapsychology against criticism, arguing that its phenomena are inherently difficult to replicate due to their spontaneous and non-deterministic nature, similar to aspects of quantum mechanics. They criticize the notion that all parapsychological research is pseudoscience and that critics like Sven Ove Hansson are biased.

Another section discusses the writings of Helena Blavatsky and the Hodgson Report, with a debate between Gunnar Larson and K. E. Steffens. Larson defends Blavatsky against Steffens' accusations of fraud, citing arguments from Adlai Waterman and others who question the validity of the Hodgson Report. The article also briefly mentions the work of Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy, noting that more recent research tends to be more positive towards it.

Christopher Isherwood contributes an essay titled 'Vad Vedanta betyder för mig' (What Vedanta Means to Me), reflecting on his journey from atheism and rejection of organized religion to an understanding of Vedanta.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of belief versus skepticism, the scientific methodology applied to paranormal claims, and the interpretation of evidence. The magazine appears to present a balanced view, featuring both proponents and critics of Uri Geller and parapsychology, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. The editorial stance seems to favor a critical yet open-minded approach to phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, acknowledging the complexities and debates within these fields.

This issue of SökarguideR, dated July-August 1985, features a prominent cover story titled "Störtade tefat — nej!" (Crashed Saucers — No!) by David M. Jacobs, exploring the controversial topic of UFO crash retrievals. The magazine also includes an in-depth article on Vedanta philosophy by Christopher Isherwood, titled "Det väsentliga om Vedanta" (The Essentials of Vedanta), and a section on UFOs titled "Håkan Blomqvist På UFO-fronten" (Håkan Blomqvist on the UFO Front).

The Essentials of Vedanta by Christopher Isherwood

Isherwood's article delves into his personal journey with Vedanta, explaining why he found its teachings appealing. He highlights Vedanta's non-dualistic nature, which resonated with his psychological aversion to a dualistic God. He explains how Vedanta reconciles the apparent duality of the world by positing that the many forms are manifestations of the One, the Absolute.

Key aspects of Vedanta discussed include:

1. Non-dualism: The core principle that Atman (the individual self) is identical with Brahman (the universal consciousness). This understanding helps overcome the fear of God as a separate, punitive figure.
2. The nature of prayer: Isherwood reinterprets prayer not as a plea for material benefits, but as a sincere desire for self-knowledge and liberation from the ego.
3. Cosmology and Karma: Vedanta offers a cosmology that aligns with modern science and explains human problems through the law of karma and reincarnation, absolving individuals from blaming external forces or a divine being for their circumstances.
4. Experiential Religion: Vedanta is presented as an experimental and empirical path, encouraging personal discovery through meditation rather than blind faith. It emphasizes that one must discover truth for oneself.
5. Rejection of Sinful Identity: Vedanta discourages dwelling on sinfulness, instead focusing on humanity's inherent divine nature and the consequences of actions (karma) that lead one away from this truth.

Isherwood also touches upon the influence of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda, finding their recent existence and documented lives more relatable than distant historical figures. He appreciates Vedanta's use of Sanskrit, which provided a new vocabulary free from the semantic baggage of his Christian upbringing.

He concludes by emphasizing the guru-disciple relationship as central to his understanding of religion and the path to eternal peace.

Four Paths of Yoga

The article outlines four primary paths to spiritual realization within Vedanta:

• Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion): Involves ritualistic worship, prayer, and chanting, focusing on love and surrender to a chosen deity or divine aspect.
• Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge): Emphasizes intellectual understanding and discrimination, using the method of negation ('not this, not this') to discern reality from illusion.
• Karma Yoga (Path of Selfless Action): Focuses on performing duties without attachment to the results, offering actions as a service to the Divine.
• Raja Yoga (Path of Meditation): Utilizes systematic mind control and concentration techniques, often associated with Patanjali's Yoga Sutras and the concept of Kundalini energy.

Crashed UFOs: A Controversial Topic

David M. Jacobs' article "Störtade tefat — nej!" challenges the conventional UFO problem, arguing that a crashed UFO is a distinct and verifiable phenomenon. He posits that if a UFO had crashed, governments would have initiated extensive scientific investigations, involving top experts and maintaining strict secrecy. Jacobs critiques the lack of hard evidence for such claims, despite numerous anecdotal reports.

Richard Hall's contribution, "Störtade tefat – kanske" (Crashed Saucers – Maybe), revisits the history of UFO crash rumors, including the infamous Scully hoax. Hall acknowledges new, credible reports and testimonies that suggest some UFO crash incidents might be real. He discusses the challenges of verifying these claims due to witness reluctance and the need for scientific rigor. Hall mentions specific cases, including alleged crashes in Roswell, New Mexico, and near Kingman, Arizona, and highlights the work of researchers like Leonard Stringfield and Robert Sarbacher.

Jerome Clark, in his reflection, discusses the challenges within the UFO research community, noting the tendency towards sensationalism and the need for critical evaluation of evidence. He also touches upon the potential societal impact of confirming extraterrestrial visitation.

The issue includes a list of books related to UFOs and a section on events, including yoga retreats, meditation workshops, and lectures.

Other Content

• Astrologen: Advertisements for the magazine 'Astrologen' and the 'Aquarius-Nålen' (Aquarius Needle).
• Buddhasasanaförlaget: Listings of Buddhist texts and meditation guides.
• Drömkurs: Information on dream interpretation courses.
• Vattumannens Bokhandel: A bookstore offering New Age music, relaxation tapes, and books.
• Contact Section: Personal ads seeking pen pals and friends.
• Fredskonsert: Announcement of a concert by Sri Chinmoy in Uppsala and Stockholm.
• Poetry: A poem titled "Till förnuftet" (To Reason) by Anders Apelqvist.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, self-discovery, the paranormal, and alternative lifestyles. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging critical inquiry into phenomena like UFOs and spiritual paths like Vedanta, while also providing practical information on events and resources within the New Age and spiritual communities. There's a clear emphasis on personal growth, self-knowledge, and the search for deeper meaning beyond conventional societal norms.

Title: UFO, Uri Geller m m
Issue: 6
Date: 1986
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1986, tackles the intriguing subject of UFOs and the controversial figure Uri Geller. The editorial introduction expresses a cautious openness to the possibility of extraterrestrial spacecraft having crashed on Earth, referencing the skepticism of figures like David Jacobs and Richard Hall, while acknowledging the potential for misinterpretation or fantasy. The editor highlights the enduring relevance of the "Geller enigma" in parapsychology debates, despite Geller's perceived lack of engagement with researchers.

Articles and Features

UFOs and Crashed Spacecraft

The issue features articles discussing the possibility of UFOs crashing on Earth. "David M. Jacobs: Störtade tefat - nej!" and "Richard Hall: Störtade tefat -kanske" present differing viewpoints. The editor notes that the question of crashed UFOs and the recovery of bodies is a "spannande" (exciting) topic, even if it's best to avoid direct confrontation with extraterrestrial beings. The possibility of witnesses misinterpreting events or their imaginations running wild is also considered, but the potential for actual alien craft crashes is not dismissed.

The Uri Geller Enigma

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to Uri Geller. The editor aims to provide an overview of the "Geller enigma," acknowledging that while Geller is not as frequently discussed now, his name still surfaces in parapsychology discussions. The editor expresses personal conviction that Geller has demonstrated genuine psi phenomena but laments his limited cooperation with parapsychologists, suggesting he hasn't served the field well.

Philosophy and Spirituality

Christopher Isherwood is featured with two articles: "Vad Vedanta betyder för mig" (What Vedanta means to me) and "Det väsentliga om Vedanta" (The essence of Vedanta). These pieces explore the profound nature of Vedanta philosophy, presenting it as a subtle explanation of humanity and the universe, potentially aligning with reality. Isherwood's work is seen as a path towards understanding the core of existence.

Critiques and Commentary

"Mikael W. Gejel: Kritik av Steiner med tron som motivering" offers a critique of Rudolf Steiner, using faith as a justification. The article "Göran Brusewitz och Jens Tellefsen: Parapsykologin är ingen ovenskap!" suggests that Sven Ove selectively engages with information, only accepting what aligns with his views, which explains his perspective. "Gunnar Larson: Steffens hänvisningar prövade" revisits previous discussions, and "Anders Apelqvist: Till förnuftet" provides a reflective piece from Reimers holme.

Poetry and Other Contributions

Eva Jagrell contributes a poem titled "Dikt" (Poem), identified as a "Sökarpoetissa i Laholm" (Seeker poetess in Laholm). The "SM" notes also include a brief mention of a planned article on the Fox sisters' communication, postponed to the autumn, and an apology for a lack of thorough proofreading in a previous issue concerning an article on the Bhagwan movement.

International Perspectives

"Håkan Blomqvist: Conspirare necesse est" discusses heightened eyebrows and dropped jaws regarding conspiracies. "Nils-Olof Jacobson: Ord och toner" delves into "Nisse's new discoveries in the world of tones." "Eileen Caddy: Footprints on the path" offers wisdom as Eileen continues on her life's journey.

Editorial and Publication Information

The magazine is published by SÖKAREN, an independent journal for worldview issues, edited and published by Sven Magnusson in Karlstad, Sweden. Subscription prices, postal giro, bank giro, and advertising rates are listed. The issue is printed by Värmlandstryck i Karlstad AB.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren are UFO phenomena, parapsychology, and philosophical/spiritual exploration. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, willing to consider unconventional ideas like crashed UFOs and genuine psi phenomena, while also engaging in critical analysis of figures like Uri Geller and Rudolf Steiner. The inclusion of Vedanta philosophy suggests an interest in Eastern spiritual traditions and their potential to offer deeper insights into existence. The magazine aims to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints on life's mysteries and worldviews.