Sokaren - 1987 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR3
Volume: 24
Date: 1987
Price: 20:00 INKL. MOM

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine, delves into profound topics of spirituality, psychology, and alternative health, featuring an in-depth interview with reincarnation researcher Sylvia Cranston, an exploration of Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), and an article on the growing acceptance of alternative medicine.

Interview with Sylvia Cranston: A New Horizon

The magazine opens with an interview with Sylvia Cranston, a specialist in reincarnation research, conducted by Peter Bernin and Eva Moberg. Cranston, author of several books on the subject, discusses the concept of reincarnation, emphasizing that it means returning to life in a flesh body, and dispelling the notion of humans reincarnating into animal forms. She asserts that "once a human, always a human," unless one evolves to a higher state.

Cranston highlights the most compelling evidence for reincarnation: the detailed past-life memories of young children, typically between the ages of two and four. These children often name previous family members, places of residence, and even the circumstances of their death. She notes that these memories, when verified by scientists like Professor Ian Stevenson, are found to be up to 90% accurate. Unlike adults' alleged past-life memories, which can be influenced by imagination or media, children's memories are considered more reliable due to their innocence and the recency of their previous lives.

Professor Ian Stevenson, a leading researcher in the field, is presented as a key figure whose extensive work has gathered over two thousand cases of children recalling past lives. Stevenson's research includes the study of birthmarks that correspond to fatal wounds from previous incarnations. For instance, a child who reported being beheaded in a past life was found to have a birthmark around their neck. Stevenson's meticulous documentation has earned him recognition in medical journals.

Cranston also touches upon other forms of evidence, including analogies from nature's cyclical patterns (day/night, seasons) and logical reasoning. She argues that reincarnation offers a framework to understand life's inequalities, such as suffering and fortune, as consequences of actions in past lives (karma). However, she cautions against hasty judgments, explaining that difficult circumstances in this life might be chosen for spiritual growth and learning.

She further differentiates between the 'outer personality' (the physical body and its traits) and the 'true individuality' or 'real self', which is the immortal, indivisible essence that reincarnates.

Multiple Personalities, Multiple Biologies

This section, authored by D. Scott Rogo, explores the fascinating field of Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD). The article highlights recent research, including international conferences, that points to significant physiological differences between the various personalities within a single individual. These differences can manifest in handedness, EEG patterns, allergies, vision requirements, and even susceptibility to anesthesia and diabetes.

Dr. Bennett Braun's research is cited, showing that different personalities within the same body can have distinct EEG readings. In one case, a patient who was colorblind in her primary personality became not colorblind after her sub-personalities were integrated. Another patient exhibited different insulin needs for diabetes depending on which personality was dominant, and one personality showed signs of lead poisoning while others did not.

The article suggests that these findings underscore the profound influence of the mind on the body, far beyond what was previously understood. It raises questions about whether conditions like nearsightedness or allergies could be overcome through psychological means, potentially through self-hypnosis.

Dr. Frank Putnam's work is mentioned, indicating that MPD often arises from severe childhood trauma, such as abuse or witnessing violence. The distinct personalities can act as 'buffers' against overwhelming experiences.

The Problem of Immortality

This article discusses the concept of the soul's immortality from various perspectives, referencing the debate within Christianity and other religions. It questions whether the soul is truly immortal or if it has a beginning and an end, like individual personalities. The author explores the idea of the 'drop merging with the ocean' as a metaphor for the soul's ultimate dissolution or union with a universal consciousness.

Alternative Medicine's Knowledge

Authored by Bengt Friberg, this section examines the growing field of alternative medicine in Sweden. It references a parliamentary inquiry and a large-scale survey revealing that 22% of Swedes have experience with alternative treatments, with a high satisfaction rate (77.4% finding it worth the cost). The most common reasons for seeking alternative care were back and hip pain, followed by headaches, fatigue, and skin conditions.

Kiropraktik (chiropractic) and naprapathy are identified as the most sought-after alternative therapies. The survey also indicates that a significant portion of the population (over 65%) is open to alternative medicine, even without personal experience. The article argues for greater integration of proven alternative therapies into the conventional healthcare system, citing patient satisfaction and the limitations of conventional medicine in addressing psychosomatic issues.

Wu-Wei: Just Sit and Let the Grass Grow

Written by Bengt Petersen, this piece introduces the concept of 'wu-wei' from Taoist and Zen philosophy. Wu-wei, often translated as 'non-action', does not mean complete passivity but rather acting in accordance with nature, without forcing things. It's about allowing events to unfold naturally, like the process of breathing or the growth of grass.

The article uses examples from nature, such as flexible branches bending in the wind, and martial arts like Judo and Aikido, to illustrate the principle of yielding and going with the flow. It suggests that true fulfillment often comes when one stops striving and becomes open to receiving life's experiences. Za-zen meditation is presented as a practice of wu-wei, involving the cessation of ego-driven activity and the acceptance of the present moment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of spirituality, the nature of consciousness, and the mind-body connection. It advocates for a holistic view of health and well-being, integrating psychological, spiritual, and physical aspects. The magazine appears to be open to exploring unconventional ideas and research, particularly those that challenge established paradigms in psychology, medicine, and religion. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging personal exploration and critical inquiry into these profound subjects.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1987, features a prominent interview with Willy Wegner, a Danish librarian who transitioned from a UFO believer to a skeptic. The cover headline, 'En troende blir skeptiker' (A believer becomes a skeptic), encapsulates the central theme of Wegner's narrative. The magazine also includes book reviews and articles on various topics, including energy policy, psychology, and spirituality.

Interview with Willy Wegner: From Believer to Skeptic

Willy Wegner recounts the origins of his UFO interest in 1965, sparked by books and magazines, which led him to join a UFO study circle in Copenhagen. He describes the Danish UFO scene at the time as heavily dominated by George Adamski's teachings, with the organization SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information) serving as a primary source of information aligned with Adamski's views. Wegner details how he gradually moved away from this Adamski-centric worldview by reading more diverse literature, including 'Flying Saucer Review' and 'APRO Bulletin', which provided a broader perspective and fostered critical thinking.

He highlights two key factors that contributed to his growing skepticism: the 'Orthon movement' and a UFO observation tour in Hareskoven. The Orthon movement, associated with alleged mediumistic messages and a doomsday prophecy, led to personal tragedies for some involved. During the Hareskoven tour, an incident involving a claimed contactee and an orange light made Wegner suspicious of fabricated contact stories, especially when coupled with an offer of 'speed' (Preludin) by a participant.

Wegner clarifies that his transition to skepticism was a gradual process, not a sudden event. He began to critically examine his own UFO lectures, realizing that much of the content was based on unsubstantiated narratives. He also discusses his brief involvement with SUFOI's organizational apparatus, finding it difficult to work within the established structure.

A significant part of Wegner's work involved archiving UFO literature. He initiated the project that resulted in 'Dansk ufo-litteratur 1946-1970', a bibliography published by the University of Copenhagen. This led to the establishment of Dansk UFO Center, which functioned as a UFO archive rather than an organization. After ten years, Dansk UFO Center was closed, and Wegner, along with Jens Laigaard, co-founded the magazine 'Skeptika' in 1980.

Wegner defines skepticism as a critical and doubting attitude, emphasizing the importance of remaining open-minded and avoiding dogmatism. He expresses concern about 'sectarian skepticism' and advocates for a broad, selective approach to questioning.

Critical Review: Pia Hellertz on Bengt Stern's 'MÖT DIG SJÄLV' Course

Pia Hellertz, a social worker and doctoral candidate in social work, provides a detailed and critical account of her experience at Bengt Stern's 'MÖT DIG SJÄLV' (Meet Yourself) course. While acknowledging Stern's theoretical alignment with humanistic psychology and his personal story of overcoming addiction, Hellertz strongly criticizes the practical application of his methods.

She describes the 'dynamic meditation' sessions as intense and potentially harmful, particularly the 'HO-meditation' which involved hyperventilation, screaming, and physical exertion. Hellertz contends that the instructors, including Stern's assistants Gunnar and Lotta, lacked the necessary emotional processing and empathy to guide participants through these intense experiences, leading to 'macabre' provocations and a lack of genuine support.

Specific exercises like 'Slalomställningen' (Slalom Position) and 'Förlossningsövningen' (Birth Exercise) are described as torturous rather than therapeutic. Hellertz recounts instances of physical pain and emotional distress inflicted on participants, including Lennart, who suffered severe back pain during the birth exercise, and Berit, who experienced chest pain. She accuses Stern of lying about his level of physical contact during these exercises and questions his methods, suggesting they stem from sadistic needs rather than genuine care.

Hellertz also criticizes Stern's handling of 'Dödsövningen' (Death Exercise), where participants were guided to experience aging and death. She describes her own experience of intense emotional release and subsequent despair, and criticizes Stern's dismissive response to a participant named Sara, who was described as psychotic.

She concludes that while Stern's intentions might have been good, his practical methods were flawed, potentially dangerous, and lacked the necessary integration and support for participants, especially those with pre-existing psychological issues. Hellertz advocates for less risky and more effective methods for self-discovery.

Book Reviews

'The Geller Effect' by Uri Geller and Guy Lyon Playfair: This book details Uri Geller's activities from 1975-1985, including his marriage, children, inventions, and work as a freelance consultant. Geller addresses rumors about his career and defends himself against accusations of fraud, while also discussing his spiritual journey and the importance of inner values.

'Peace Pilgrim: Her Life and Work in Her Own Words': This book chronicles the life of Peace Pilgrim, a woman who walked 25,000 miles for peace. It highlights her philosophy of inner peace, non-violence, and spiritual development, emphasizing the importance of living one's beliefs consistently. The book is presented as an inspirational account of a life dedicated to a higher purpose.

'The Road Less Traveled' by M. Scott Peck: Reviewed by Nils-Olof Jacobson, this book is described as a profound and serious work on psychology and spirituality. Peck emphasizes self-discipline, the nature of love, and the importance of spiritual growth. The review highlights Peck's view that life is inherently difficult and that growth comes from confronting problems.

Book Reviews from 'Bokrevy':

• 'Allt fler blir privatreligiösa' (More and more people are becoming privately religious): A collection of articles from Svenska Dagbladet exploring various forms of religiosity outside established religious communities, including new spirituality and thinkers like Teilhard de Chardin.
• 'Den antroposofiska rörelsen' (The Anthroposophical Movement) by Frans Carlgren: A comprehensive overview of anthroposophy, covering its background, various fields of application, and criticisms, written in an objective and informative tone.
• 'Märkliga begåvningar' (Strange Gifts) edited by Peter Brookesmith: A collection of accounts of individuals with purported paranormal abilities, presented in a visually appealing format but lacking scientific rigor and critical analysis.
• 'Det omedvetna' (The Unconscious): Another series of articles from Svenska Dagbladet exploring the concept of the unconscious, contrasting Freudian views with Jungian perspectives on its creative potential and therapeutic applications.
• 'Växa för livet. Waldorfpedagogik – en fortbildningsmodell' (Growing for Life. Waldorf Pedagogy – A Continuing Education Model) edited by Esbjörn Hellström: This book details the pedagogical principles and practices of Waldorf schools, comparing them with the Swedish national curriculum and offering insights into the Waldorf approach to child development.

Article: Bertil Falk on Energy Policy

Bertil Falk discusses energy researcher Göran Wall's assertion that improved insulation in multi-family homes could significantly reduce Sweden's reliance on nuclear power. Wall's research suggests that with proper insulation (20 cm for walls, 40 cm for roofs) and heat recovery systems, the heat generated by occupants and appliances could be sufficient for heating, potentially eliminating the need for nuclear energy for this purpose.

Other Content

The magazine also includes sections on horoscopes, Buddhist literature, and advertisements for various services and products, including tarot readings, healing courses, and health products.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes critical thinking and skepticism, particularly in relation to UFO phenomena and religious beliefs. Willy Wegner's interview serves as a central piece advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach. The critical review of Bengt Stern's course highlights the dangers of unverified therapeutic methods and the importance of ethical considerations in self-help practices. The book reviews cover a range of spiritual and psychological topics, often with an underlying theme of personal growth and self-discovery, but also with a critical eye towards unsubstantiated claims. The magazine appears to promote a humanist and rationalist perspective, questioning traditional religious doctrines and pseudoscientific claims.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 3
Volume: 1987
Date: March 1987
Publisher: Värmlandstryck i Karlstad AB
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Full year (10 issues) 150:-, Half year 85:-

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life philosophy, presents a diverse range of articles and interviews. The cover highlights an interview with Sylvia Cranston, author of popular books on reincarnation and karma, with excerpts from her latest work focusing on birthmarks as potential evidence of past lives. The magazine also features a critical open letter to instructor Bengt Stern from a course participant, discussing experiences with 'New Age' courses and therapies. The editor addresses the philosophical debate surrounding the soul's immortality.

Featured Articles and Interviews

Reincarnation and Past Lives

• "En ny horisont" (A New Horizon): An interview with author Sylvia Cranston, who posits that everything exists in cycles and that each person returns in an endless series of incarnations. Cranston is presented as an expert on reincarnation research.
• "Ian Stevensons forskning: Bevisar födelsemärken reinkarnation?" (Ian Stevenson's Research: Do Birthmarks Prove Reincarnation?): This article, co-authored by Sylvia Cranston and Carey Williams, delves into the research of Ian Stevenson, exploring whether birthmarks can serve as evidence for reincarnation.

Critical Perspectives on 'New Age' Practices

• "Brev till en sökare" (Letter to a Seeker) by Birgit Cars: A critical open letter to Bengt Stern from one of his course participants. The letter, though subjective and from two years prior, is published due to its relevance in discussing courses and therapies. The editor notes that many people invest heavily in expensive courses without full knowledge of their content, sometimes leading to disappointment, distress, or harm.
• Open invitation: The magazine invites individuals with positive or negative experiences from 'New Age' courses and therapies to contact them for potential publication.

Philosophy of the Soul and Immortality

• "Odödlighetsproblemet" (The Immortality Problem) by SM (Editor): In response to a debate on immortality initiated by Krister Stendahl's skeptical statements, this article attempts to clarify the concept of the soul's immortality, questioning whether the soul is immortal and, if so, in what manner.

Other Topics

• "Multipla personligheter, multipla biologier" (Multiple Personalities, Multiple Biologies) by D. Scott Rogo: This article explores the phenomenon of multiple personalities and their potential connection to different biological aspects.
• "Triumf att finnas till" (Triumph to Exist) by Edith Södergran: A piece by the renowned poet.
• "Ta vara på alternativmedicinens kunskaper!" (Take Advantage of Alternative Medicine's Knowledge!) by Bengt Friberg: This article advocates for utilizing the knowledge within alternative medicine and questions its future integration alongside conventional medicine.
• "Ibland vill vi ge" (Sometimes We Want to Give) by Ole Torvalds: A brief contribution.
• "Wu-Wei" by Bengt Petersen: An exploration of this Taoist concept.
• "En troende blir skeptiker" (A Believer Becomes a Skeptic): An interview with Willy Wegner.
• "Varför humanism?" (Why Humanism?) by Gunnar Ståldal: An article discussing the principles and importance of humanism.
• "Försona dig med livet" (Reconcile Yourself with Life) by Phil Bosmans: A piece encouraging readers to accept life, with a recommendation to also purchase Bosmans' book.
• "Vandrande Peace Pilgrim" (Walking Peace Pilgrim): A mention of a 'Peace Pilgrim' who walked 25,000 miles for peace.

Book Reviews and Other Contributions

• Book Review: A review of Eileen Caddy's book "Footprints on the Path."
• "Vi kan isolera bort våra kärnkraftverk" (We Can Isolate Our Nuclear Power Plants) by Bertil Falk: An article likely discussing nuclear energy.
• "Omslingrad av evighet" (Encircled by Eternity) by Eva Jagrell: A reflective piece on eternity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes related to spirituality, consciousness, the paranormal, and alternative approaches to health and life philosophy. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring unconventional ideas and research, such as reincarnation and Ufology, while also encouraging critical discussion and personal experience sharing, as evidenced by the publication of the critical letter and the editor's own contributions on philosophical concepts like immortality. There is an apparent interest in bridging the gap between different fields of knowledge, including conventional and alternative medicine, and in fostering a deeper understanding of life's fundamental questions.