Sokaren - 1987 No 07

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR7
Volume: ÅRGÅNG 24
Date: 1987
Price: 20:00 INKL. MOMS
Publisher: Pan Helhetscenter
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

Conference Report: 'Ljuset från norr' - A New Age Conference in Stockholm

The magazine "Sökaren" (Seeker), issue NR7 of Volume 24 from 1987, features a comprehensive report on the "Ljuset från norr" (The Light from the North) New Age conference held in Stockholm on May 9-10, 1987. Organized by Pan Helhetscenter to celebrate its third anniversary, the conference aimed to unite individuals and centers dedicated to spreading "light" and fostering a network of like-minded people.

The conference began with an introduction by textile artist and poet Margareta Gelin, who read her poem "Enaren kommer från Norden" accompanied by her weaving "Ljuset från norr." The first day was largely dedicated to participants introducing themselves and their respective centers. Representatives from various centers, health homes, spiritual collectives, and movements across the Nordic countries and neighboring nations gathered. The report notes that Pan Helhetscenter appeared to be one of the most established New Age centers in the Nordic region, prompting the question of whether similar organizations existed elsewhere in the world.

Several speakers presented diverse aspects of the New Age movement. Psychotherapist Johan Wretman spoke on "the universal human" and shared poetry and songs, while Johan Sandwall discussed "ecological economy." Sandwall argued that money has only a fictitious value and that true wealth lies in natural resources and the ability to meet basic human needs, criticizing the destruction of vast quantities of produce in the EU while people elsewhere starve.

Common themes throughout the conference included taking responsibility for the world, love, community, and increased insight into the laws of life. Contributions also came in the form of poetry by Baom Carlman, music by Gunnel Jacobsson, and performances by Susanne Häll and Toomas Tuulse. Karin Schmidt and her dance group presented a musical and dramatic piece. Peter Russell and Yogi Bhajan shared their messages via video. Greetings from international figures like Barbara Findeisen, Derk Loeks, Alan Cohen, Juanita Brown, and Jerry Jampolsky (all from the USA) were also heard via telephone.

The event included a variety of activities such as Aikido, belly dancing, astrology, and light meditation. The weekend culminated in a festive celebration and dance. During the celebration, the newly instituted Pan Award was presented. This award, designed by Eva Englund from Orrefors, is intended to encourage those who have made significant contributions to a better world. The first recipient was Jakob von Yxkull, the founder of The Right Livelihood Award (often called the alternative Nobel Prize). The award was accepted by Paul Ekins, the new head of the foundation.

The second day began with a joint breakfast, followed by a discussion session where representatives from various centers and organizations met to exchange experiences and discuss cooperation. Parallel sessions were held for other attendees. Smaller "friend circles" provided opportunities for personal connections and discussions related to the New Age ethos. The report acknowledges that starting and running New Age centers can be challenging, with many experiencing crises related to internal disagreements or financial difficulties, but emphasizes that those present had overcome such obstacles.

Article: Rollo May and the World Calls for New Myths

This section features an interview with psychologist and philosopher Rollo May, who discusses the importance of myths in providing a meaningful structure for life. May argues that when life-sustaining myths die, humanity experiences anxiety and seeks help from therapists. He criticizes materialism and destructive tendencies, advocating for increased spirituality, humanism, and a holistic view leading to cooperation. May's upcoming book, "The Cry for Myths," is highlighted. He believes that the death of myths signifies the decline of a civilization, but sees signs of new myths emerging, offering hope for the future.

May explains that myths provide a framework for understanding existence, offering guidance through life's challenges, including the encounter with death. He notes that in the USA, a sense of powerlessness is paradoxically greater than ever, despite accumulated power. He uses the USA as an example of a civilization in decline, lacking a living myth. The pioneer myth, once strong in the US, emphasizing courage and resilience, has been replaced by materialism and the pursuit of quick riches. Americans have also lost their appreciation for beauty.

May contrasts the classical Greek and Hebrew myths, finding the Greek myths more appealing for their ability to help individuals process traumas. He discusses the concept of creation and the human need to create as an expression of the self. He touches upon the idea of a "holy emptiness" within the self, aligning with a Buddhist perspective. May also critiques therapies that solely focus on adapting individuals to society, suggesting that true healing involves understanding the deeper existential questions.

He observes that the concept of the earth as a single entity is emerging as a new myth, driven by global issues like nuclear weapons and environmental destruction, necessitating international cooperation. May notes that the search for meaning and the "cry for new myths" is particularly evident in the USA, where many seek psychoanalysis not for its own sake, but for the underlying structure and ideals it can provide.

May humorously recounts a story about a cat asking a dog about its psychoanalyst, to which the dog replies, "I'm not allowed on the sofa." He also discusses the importance of creativity and the challenges faced by creative individuals, who may be more prone to depression due to societal pressures and a lack of outlets for expression. He criticizes the idea of adapting neurotics to a neurotic society and views anxiety not as a symptom of illness, but as an integral part of growth and creativity.

Article: Prigogine's Vision: An Unpredictable Universe

This article explores the theories of Nobel laureate Ilya Prigogine, a chemist known for his work on dissipative structures. Prigogine's ideas extend to the origins of the universe and life, suggesting that new insights into time are ushering in a "second age of science." He argues that time's directionality, its irreversibility, and complex movements are fundamental. Unlike classical Newtonian physics, where time has no direction and all phenomena are predictable and mechanical, Prigogine posits that the universe is not a static machine but a dynamic, evolving entity.

Prigogine's theory of dissipative structures explains how open systems, which constantly exchange matter and energy with their surroundings, are subject to disruptive fluctuations. These fluctuations can lead to the breakdown of systems, but the resulting chaos also creates opportunities for new combinations and interactions, leading to the emergence of a new, higher order. This process, he argues, makes time not destructive but reconstructive and developmental. The instability inherent in nature is seen as a crucial factor driving evolution and human creativity, offering a multitude of possibilities for open systems.

Prigogine suggests that in a state of equilibrium, matter is blind, but far from equilibrium, nature "sees," creating new patterns and solutions, leading to new directions of development. The article references a Swedish translation of his work, "Ordning ur kaos" (Order out of Chaos).

Article: Darwin Questioned

This article discusses a critique of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, as presented by Eva Moberg in the Swedish newspaper "Dagens Nyheter." Moberg argues that while Darwin's theory has been a cornerstone of the materialistic worldview, it is increasingly being challenged by discoveries in molecular biology. She cites Michael Denton's book "Evolution - A Theory in Crisis," which suggests that Darwin's theory may only be a partial truth and cannot fully explain the evolution of life.

Moberg highlights that Darwin expected to find numerous fossil transitional forms to support his theory, but these have largely been absent. The fossils that do exist often show species that are either closely related to existing ones or entirely unique, with few clear transitional links. She questions the idea that evolution occurred through gradual, random changes (mutations) and natural selection, arguing that if Darwin's theory were correct, there should be countless functional intermediate forms. Moberg suggests that evolution might have occurred in leaps, which random chance cannot explain.

She also points out the complexity of even the simplest single-celled organisms, arguing that their spontaneous emergence through random chance is highly improbable. The article mentions a response from three zoology students at Uppsala University, who defended Darwinism by comparing it to improving a car model, where functional parts are retained and improved upon. They suggested that random variations in genes are preserved if they are functional, leading to new variations.

In a rebuttal, Moberg argues that while beneficial mutations can explain variations within species, they cannot account for the origin of new species, families, or classes. She questions how random mutations could occur in a functional sequence to create complex organs like feathers or eyes. She also suggests the possibility of unknown communication systems or energy fields influencing life forms.

The article quotes Professor Pierre Grassé, who called for the "destruction of the myth of evolution" and urged biologists to examine the weaknesses in its interpretations. It also references Sven Öhman, a professor of phonetics, who describes evolutionary theory as a "classification system" that helps organize species but lacks definitive proof of their chronological development. Öhman suggests that the current genealogical tree of species has a fictional character.

Article: An Intelligent Factor

This article discusses Stefan Nordström's book "Livet - en gåta" (Life - a Riddle), which challenges the materialistic and mechanistic view of the universe and life's origins. Nordström, a docent in medical genetics, argues against the idea that life arose solely through random chance and natural selection. He posits that the intricate and purposeful organization of life suggests the presence of an "intelligent factor" or a guiding will behind evolution.

Nordström criticizes the view that life is merely a product of complex chemical processes driven by chance. He argues that this perspective is not natural science but a materialistic ideology. He suggests that the difficulty in explaining life's complexity as a result of random mutations and natural selection leaves room for alternative explanations, such as the existence of a creator or a divine intelligence.

The article touches upon the concept of "consciousness substance" as a fundamental aspect of the universe, possessing properties like consciousness, thought, and intelligence. This substance, it is suggested, drives evolution towards increasing complexity and purposefulness, a process that is ongoing and developmental. The idea of a "young God" who is learning and evolving is also mentioned.

Nordström advocates for a discussion that moves beyond simplistic debates between atheism and a traditional concept of God, focusing instead on the possibility of an intelligent factor guiding the universe's development. The article also briefly mentions Fred Hoyle's statement that the "astonishing order" of biochemical substances must be the work of some intelligence.

Article: Benjamin Creme in Sweden

This article profiles Benjamin Creme, a British esotericist who claims to be a spokesperson for the Christ and the Masters of Wisdom. Creme gained notoriety in 1982 for placing advertisements in major newspapers worldwide announcing the imminent reappearance of the Christ, who he stated was already present in the world. The article details Creme's background, his claims of telepathic contact with spiritual masters and extraterrestrial beings, and his role in disseminating their messages.

Creme's teachings emphasize the redistribution of the world's resources to prevent starvation and poverty, with "sharing" being a key message. The article notes that while Creme's message of fairness is appealing, his claims are based on inner messages and telepathic contact, which the author views with skepticism. The author questions the nature of the "space people" Creme claims to have met and points out inconsistencies in Creme's explanations, such as his interpretations of Krishnamurti's departure from Theosophy and his views on Rudolf Steiner.

The article also touches upon Creme's alleged antisemitic views, which are presented as a continuation of traditions from Theosophists like Blavatsky and Bailey. Creme claims that the Christ (Maitreya) has been preparing for a public reappearance since 1950, but that humanity was not ready. He states that the Christ is now in London and that his message will be broadcast telepathically to everyone in their own language. The article mentions that Creme has been involved in promoting various esoteric practices, including meditation and the dissemination of messages from the Masters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Sökaren" appears to focus on alternative spirituality, New Age philosophies, and critiques of mainstream scientific and materialistic worldviews. There is a strong emphasis on consciousness, personal growth, and the search for meaning beyond conventional explanations. The articles often explore topics such as the nature of reality, the role of myths, spiritual evolution, and the potential for a new era of enlightenment. The editorial stance seems to be open to exploring these unconventional ideas, providing platforms for individuals who present such perspectives, while also maintaining a critical and analytical approach, as seen in the questioning of Darwin's theory and Benjamin Creme's claims.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: nr 4-5
Volume: årgång 11
Date: 1987
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: URI GELLER – en framgångsrik fifflare? (Uri Geller – a successful charlatan?)

This issue of Sökaren delves into the controversial figure of Uri Geller, presenting a critical investigation into his claims of psychic abilities and his business dealings. The magazine questions whether Geller is a genuine paranormal phenomenon or a skilled 'charlatan'.

Uri Geller – A Successful Charlatan?

The cover story, 'URI GELLER – en framgångsrik fifflare?', reports on Geller's financial success, with the Financial Times noting he is a millionaire who advises mining companies for substantial fees, often a million pounds as an advance on royalties. However, the article raises doubts about the veracity of these claims, noting that independent confirmations are difficult to obtain and that companies might find it easier to 'hide' payments to Geller.

Peter Sterling, chairman of the Australian prospecting company Zanex, is cited as having hired Geller for advice on finding gold and diamonds on the Solomon Islands and in Australia. Sterling paid Geller $250,000 for his advice and was guaranteed the option to buy Zanex shares. Geller reportedly advised looking for diamonds, and initial tests were 'promising', but Sterling did not confirm if diamonds were found or if the locations were already known. Sterling found it difficult to explain Geller's prospecting methods to his board.

The article also mentions Geller's visit to Maldon, Victoria, where he discussed with a geologist. The Skeptic suggests Geller revealed nothing new. Sterling stated he had no idea 'how it worked' but believed science would eventually create machines that could do the same.

A reporter from the Financial Times noted that Geller enjoys working with geologists, using their feedback to interpret 'forces'. Despite some failures, Geller has been highly successful financially, living in luxurious apartments in London and owning properties abroad.

Unfavorable Publicity

In October 1986, the London newspaper Mail on Sunday published a critical investigation by journalists Iain Walker and John Dale. They labeled Geller a 'con man' and 'the worst fraud of the 20th century'. The investigation, lasting three months, uncovered several instances that cast doubt on Geller's claims:

• TV Show Trick: During a TV show, Geller allegedly reproduced a drawing that the host had hidden. Walker and Dale claim Geller peeked during a rehearsal, observed by a production member who found it odd that Geller would turn his back and peek through his fingers.
• Broken Watch: Geller managed to start a broken watch on a TV show. An watchmaker later examined it and found no fault, suggesting a small hair in the mechanism could cause it to start if shaken, a common occurrence with old, unused watches.
• Diamond Detection: Geller claimed to detect diamonds from a plane. Reporters tested him by presenting 84 matchboxes containing diamond, gold, silver, oil, and coal, asking him to identify them. Geller refused to try.
• Kissinger Claim: Geller claimed to have impressed Henry Kissinger in Mexico by reading his thoughts. Walker and Dale contacted Kissinger, who recalled Geller bending a spoon but denied Geller read his thoughts.
• South Africa Coal Find: Geller claimed to have found coal deposits in South Africa based on a map shown by Clive Menell. Menell stated that Geller was tested as a joke and did not perform well, failing to identify mineral samples and never being hired by the company.
• Zanex's Disappointment: The Australian company Zanex paid Geller $350,000 for gold and diamond prospecting advice, but it yielded no success. Director Georg Reynolds stated it could hardly be called prospecting success and denied Geller had earned his fee.
• Illusionist's Medal: Geller claimed critics had to eat their words, and that illusionist Ronai Schachnaey even gave him a medal. Schachnaey clarified he gave Geller the medal to emphasize that Geller is an illusionist, stating, 'I have always considered him a bluff'.
• Bronfman Kidnapping: Geller claimed to have helped find kidnapped billionaire Samuel Bronfman. The Bronfman family denied this, stating Geller merely pointed to a large district in Brooklyn on a map and sent a bill for $18,000, which they reluctantly paid $180 for.

Walker and Dale concluded that Geller's business practices showed a pattern of deception, suggesting he lacks paranormal powers.

Other Articles and Sections

• Human-Etiska Förbundet: This organization advocates for non-believers, a de-Christianized school system, sexual equality, media that reflects the population's worldview, and ecological awareness.
• Deprogramming: The article discusses deprogramming, a controversial practice often associated with religious cults like the Krishnarörelsen. While Krishnarörelsen views deprogramming as unethical, the article notes that many deprogrammed individuals are grateful. It also details accusations of violence and torture used by some deprogrammers, citing testimonies from members of the Unification Church and The Way.
• Animal Testing: Mia Jonson, a 16-year-old, describes her disturbing experience during a five-week internship at the State Bacteriological Laboratory, detailing the poor treatment and suffering of animals, particularly mice and rabbits.
• Astrology and Social Class: An analysis of a study published in The Guardian suggests a correlation between sun signs and professions. However, the article concludes that this correlation can be explained by seasonal birth differences among social classes, particularly the tendency for higher social groups to plan births in spring.
• Spiritism or Spiritualism?: This section clarifies the distinction between 'spiritism' and 'spiritualism', noting that while the terms are often used interchangeably, 'spiritualism' emphasizes the spiritual nature of reality as opposed to materialism.
• Henry T. Laurency: An overview of the works of Henry T. Laurency, a pseudonym for a Swedish author who wrote on esoteric philosophy and life knowledge.
• Book Reviews: Several books are reviewed, including 'Den gode krigaren' (The Good Warrior) by Jan Grönholm on work ethics, 'Koncentrerad relationslära' (Concentrated Relationship Theory) by Bertil Martinsson, 'Praktisk buddhism' (Practical Buddhism) by Gunnar Gällmo, and 'Ofstads testamente' (Ofstad's Testament) by Harald Ofstad on ethics and decision-making.
• Book Announcements: Various books on spiritualism, yoga, healing, and esoteric subjects are advertised, including works by Richard Bach, Michael B. Sabom, and Lisbeth Gustavsson.
• Cassettes: Several cassette recordings are promoted, including those by Carin Holm on self-confidence and success, and by Nils-Olof Jacobson on quitting smoking, sleep improvement, and inner peace.
• UFOs and Paranormal Claims: The 'Glada skeptiker' (Happy Skeptics) section by Bill Nilsson discusses the skepticism surrounding claims like Queen Elizabeth asking meditators to influence the weather, Uri Geller's spoon-bending, and a TV 'healer' using a radio receiver. It highlights the work of organizations like CSICOP in debunking such phenomena.
• Good News: A short piece titled 'Goda nyheter under det senaste dygnet' (Good news during the past 24 hours) offers a positive outlook on life, mentioning the planet's rotation, birds singing, new human births, acts of kindness, and the generation of new ideas.
• Animal Testing Statistics: The article 'Djurförsöken ökade 1986' (Animal testing increased in 1986) reports a 30% increase in animal testing in Sweden, with over 567,603 experiments conducted in 1986.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards paranormal claims, pseudoscientific theories, and unverified phenomena. It prioritizes investigative journalism, presenting evidence and counter-arguments to sensationalist claims, particularly those related to figures like Uri Geller. The editorial stance appears to favor rational inquiry, scientific investigation, and a questioning approach to extraordinary claims. There is also a focus on personal development, spiritual exploration (often from a non-dogmatic perspective), and social issues such as animal welfare and ethical decision-making. The magazine seems to aim at providing its readers with well-researched information and encouraging critical thinking.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: Number 7
Date: 1987
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Full year (10 issues) 150:-, Half year 85:-

This issue of Sökaren, dated July 1987, is an independent magazine focusing on worldview issues. The cover features a commentary section and the magazine's title. The main headline on the cover is "Kommentar".

Commentary Section

The "Kommentar" section addresses several topics:

New Age Movement in Sweden

The Pan Helhetscenter is highlighted as a significant New Age center in Sweden, existing for three years and representing various New Age ideas. Other New Age hubs mentioned include the bookstore Vattumannen, other bookshops, the advertising magazine Energivågen, and the "växthusrörelsen" (greenhouse movement). Sökaren positions itself as an observer, sympathetic to New Age ideas but not fully immersed, finding much that is good within the movement.

Skepticism towards Darwin's Theory of Evolution

The commentator expresses skepticism towards Darwin's theory of evolution, similar to Eva Moberg. The belief is that there must be something more to existence than random genetic mutations and natural selection. The commentator finds intellectual sympathy with thinkers like Michael Denton, Pierre Grassé, and Stefan Nordström, predicting a growing skepticism towards evolution in its current form, while not necessarily attributing the universe's creation to a divine being.

Benjamin Creme

Benjamin Creme is noted for having a certain reputation within the New Age movement. The commentator points out that Creme believes he is a spokesperson for Christ, who is supposedly living on Earth today. This claim is challenged, with Håkan Blomqvist's reportage cited as evidence of Creme's unreliability. The magazine plans to further discuss cases where individuals have had mystical experiences leading them to believe they are chosen by Christ or "masters."

Uri Geller

There is a discussion about Uri Geller's alleged paranormal abilities. While acknowledging that he might possess genuine psychic powers, the commentator notes that his self-promotion without sufficient factual basis undermines this. The article expresses a desire for Geller to be more scientifically inclined and to cooperate with researchers rather than solely focusing on financial gain and fame.

Articles and Features

"Ljuset från norr. New age-konferens i Stockholm."

By Åsa Freij. This article covers a New Age conference in Stockholm. Pan, located in Götgatsbacken, Stockholm, is mentioned as having promoted New Age ideas for three years. A photo shows Benjamin, eight weeks old, attending the conference with his mother, Åsa Freij. The photo is credited to Per Frisk.

"Rollo May och världen ropar efter nya myter."

By Åsa Freij. This article discusses Rollo May and the world's call for new myths.

"Prigogines vision"

Authored by SM, this article was developed in consultation with physicists and discusses Prigogine's vision.

"Darwin ifrågasatt"

Authored by SM, this article questions whether life forms evolved according to Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

"Finns en intelligent faktor bakom allt?"

Authored by SM, this article explores the possibility of an intelligent factor behind everything.

"Mot en ny vetenskapssyn"

By Lasse Danielsson. This article advocates for a new perspective on science.

"Benjamin Creme i Sverige"

By Håkan Blomqvist. This article details Benjamin Creme's presence and activities in Sweden.

"I rörelse"

By Karin Boye. This short piece is titled "In Motion."

"Uri Geller – en framgångsrik fiff-lare?"

Authored by SM. This article questions whether Uri Geller is a successful trickster. It references Kendrick Frazier, editor of the American skeptical organization CSICOP's journal, "the Skeptical Inquirer." Frazier has compiled information suggesting that Uri Geller may exaggerate his abilities, presenting himself in a way that lacks factual grounding.

"Senaste nytt från rymden"

By Nils-Olof Jacobson. This section provides the latest news from space.

"Lyckliga människor"

By Phil Bosmans. This article discusses happy people.

"Glada skeptiker"

By Bill Nilsson. This article features "Happy Skeptics." The author, Bill, is a psychologist who sympathizes with skeptics but does not fully share their views.

"Goda nyheter"

This section is titled "Good News."

Book and Cassette Reviews

"Bokrecensioner"

Reviews of books, including one by Sven Rosén.

"Kassettrecensioner"

Reviews of cassette tapes.

"Footprints on the path"

By Eileen Caddy. This is likely a review or mention of a work by Eileen Caddy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sökaren demonstrates a critical yet open-minded approach to various phenomena. It engages with New Age ideas, offering both acknowledgment and skepticism. The magazine actively questions established scientific theories like Darwinism and explores alternative perspectives on science and reality. There is a clear interest in paranormal claims, such as those made by Uri Geller, but always with a critical eye and a call for scientific rigor. The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity, encouraging readers to question and explore different viewpoints, while maintaining a grounded skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The magazine also touches upon broader themes of human psychology, happiness, and the search for meaning through myths and new worldviews.