Sokaren - 1988 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR3
Volume/Year: 1988 ÅRGÅNG 25
Date: 1988
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: New Age

This issue of Sökaren delves into the 'New Age' movement, exploring its ethical foundations, societal implications, and the evolving values of individuals and society. The cover prominently features the headline "New Age" and an illustration, setting the tone for the issue's focus on spiritual and personal transformation.

The Planetary Family by Marilyn Ferguson

Marilyn Ferguson's contribution introduces the concept of the 'planetary family,' suggesting a fundamental shift in human perception. She argues that recognizing our interconnectedness as a global family is crucial for solving collective problems. This involves transcending narrow group definitions based on culture, social conditioning, or class, and embracing a broader sense of kinship. Ferguson highlights the emergence of new forms of community and support networks, citing the American Home Economics Association's 1979 definition of family as a unit of mutual support, shared values, and goals, regardless of biological ties.

She emphasizes that love and brotherhood are essential for human survival and well-being, drawing parallels to religious teachings. The article touches upon Einstein's idea of an 'optical illusion' that makes us feel separate, limiting our empathy. Ferguson quotes Dostoevsky on the transformative power of love and the idea that societal order can be achieved through it. The piece also references the concept of 'crossing the boundaries' as described by Maslow, where individuals who see the gap between possibility and reality in human relations are often more sorrowful but also more insightful.

The Ethical Core of New Age by Sven M

Sven M elaborates on the ethical underpinnings of the New Age movement, positing that humanity's ability to survive depends on its capacity for goodness and love, which he identifies as the universal religion. He argues that resolving global conflicts requires understanding and empathy rather than anger and hate. Love, he states, is the key, fostering positive relationships based on goodwill. Sven M asserts that serving humanity, particularly the weak, poor, hungry, and marginalized, is a noble pursuit. He reiterates the idea of humanity as a unified entity, a living family where everyone deserves care. This ethical core, he explains, is also central to the New Age movement, which he describes as a progressive development of human spirituality, deepening worldviews and ethical insights.

He distinguishes the New Age movement from traditional religions, not as a rival but as a complementary path, possessing unique qualities and perspectives. He refutes any notion of it being a dark or negative force, instead highlighting its positive contributions to human spirituality.

Soon Every Other Swede Will Be 'Inner-Directed' by Ingrid Olausson

Ingrid Olausson discusses the growing trend of 'inner-directed' individuals in Sweden and Europe, based on research presented at a conference on the future of enterprise. These individuals, who were rare 30 years ago, now represent a significant and influential demographic. They are characterized by a desire for personal growth, meaningful lives, and individual freedom. They are not driven by power but by a quest for self-realization and are willing to work unconventional hours if their work is meaningful. They value spiritual exploration and are open to change, viewing it as an opportunity rather than a threat.

Olausson categorizes people into three main groups: 'inner-directed,' 'outer-directed' (seeking status and external validation), and 'sustenance-driven' (focused on security and stability). She notes a shift from outer-directed to inner-directed values, particularly among those experiencing mid-life crises. The article highlights that 'inner-directed' individuals are becoming a powerful consumer group, influencing market trends. The research indicates that Sweden has a high percentage of inner-directed individuals (43%), surpassing many other European countries, though the Netherlands leads with 47%.

New Thinkers Are Stepping Out of the Closets by Ingrid Olausson

This article, based on a conference at Findhorn, discusses how 'inner-directed' individuals are becoming more vocal about their values in the workplace. Willis Harman, a consultant, notes that previously, these individuals kept their values private, but now they are emerging and demanding meaningful work. Peter Russell shares examples of how employees at Berol Kemi were able to discuss their feelings about production and collectively advocate for more environmentally friendly practices. The article suggests that the gap between private values and workplace expression is narrowing.

Russell describes how 'closet New Agers' are now openly discussing their values. He explains that the desire for personal growth and meaning is a common thread, and when people find a shared basis, they are motivated to act. He uses the example of a traffic jam to illustrate how stress is often a result of one's perception rather than the situation itself, emphasizing the importance of how one chooses to react.

Roger Harrison, an organizational consultant, outlines stages of development for work groups and companies, mirroring Maslow's hierarchy of needs. He describes the evolution from survival-focused startups to more structured organizations, and finally to 'cooperative organizations' where individual and collective values are paramount, aiming for societal benefit. Harrison notes a growing desire for community and collaboration, especially among younger generations.

Charles Kiefer introduces 'metanoic organizations' that move beyond conventional planning, emphasizing a fundamental shift in thinking. He uses the example of a symphony orchestra or a winning sports team to illustrate how shared vision, collective effort, and continuous learning are key to high performance. Kiefer stresses that while individual skills are important, the organizational structure must support these efforts.

Linda Ackerman discusses 'flow state leadership' in metanoic organizations, describing it as a leadership style that emerges after individuals move beyond basic needs for security and stability, entering a phase of uncertainty and transformation.

What is A Course in Miracles? by Gerald G Jampolsky

Gerald G Jampolsky introduces 'A Course in Miracles,' a spiritual self-study program consisting of three books. The Course's core message is that 'Nothing real can be threatened. Nothing unreal exists.' It aims to remove obstacles to the awareness of love, which is considered humanity's natural inheritance. The Course teaches that fear is the opposite of love and a product of thought, not reality. It emphasizes choosing between love and fear, thereby shaping one's experience of life. Jampolsky highlights that the Course encourages self-responsibility, viewing oneself as the creator of one's experiences and choosing one's emotional responses. It teaches that the world we perceive is a projection of our inner thoughts and beliefs. The Course advocates for forgiveness as a means to overcome fear and guilt, leading to peace and happiness. It describes reality as composed of God's loving thoughts and suggests that true perception comes through spiritual sight or love, not the physical senses. The Course uses Christian terminology but emphasizes universal truths and the idea that everyone finds their own path to spiritual realization.

The Turning Point - A Youth New Age Association by Åsa Freij

Åsa Freij writes about 'Vändpunkten' (The Turning Point), a youth-led New Age association in Sweden. The members express a strong desire to make a positive impact on the world and feel empowered by contributing to change. The association, initiated by Kerstin Nordin, aims to present new values and alternatives to conventional ways of living, thinking, and acting. It emphasizes increasing awareness of how individuals treat themselves, each other, society, and the world.

Vändpunkten focuses on inner exploration and understanding the root causes of societal problems within oneself, rather than blaming external factors. The members find the name 'Vändpunkten' fitting, as it signifies both a global turning point for humanity's survival and a personal turning point for many members. The association organizes events featuring speakers on topics such as life philosophy, alternative knowledge, and future-oriented issues, often collaborating with the older organization 'Nytänkarna.'

Freij notes that Vändpunkten addresses the existential anxieties of young people, providing a space for discussing deep questions that may not be covered in traditional education. The association operates with a flat structure, with a core group of young people managing activities, supported by an advisory board of older individuals. They emphasize consensus-based decision-making, inspired by practices at the Findhorn community.

The article highlights the members' belief in the inherent goodness of people and their desire to live harmoniously with nature. They are motivated by a sense of purpose and a desire to share their insights. Vändpunkten also publishes a magazine called 'Framtidningen' and offers 'future certificates' as a way to gain support. Despite facing financial challenges, the association has managed to attract young people from diverse backgrounds across the Stockholm region.

Values for a New World by Jan Grönholm

Jan Grönholm argues that Sweden's current societal project, centered on material growth, is unsustainable and detrimental. He contends that the pursuit of economic growth has led to immense resource depletion and societal costs, such as increased healthcare, bureaucracy, and unemployment. Grönholm suggests that a new societal goal is needed, one that moves beyond material accumulation.

He proposes 'human development' as the central project, drawing on Mark Satin's ideas from 'New Age Politics.' This would involve organizing society to maximize individual potential for responsibility, creativity, and community engagement. Such a society would view all of humanity as kin and act accordingly. Grönholm criticizes the prevailing negative self-image fostered by societal conditioning, religious dogma, and a focus on performance, leading to low self-esteem and a lack of self-love.

He references Abraham Maslow's concept of the self-actualized person – independent, creative, spontaneous, and integrated – as the ideal for human development. Grönholm advocates for a shift from a materialistic worldview to one that embraces holistic thinking, where individuals see themselves and the world as interconnected parts of a larger whole. He discusses the concept of 'holons' (parts that are also wholes) and emphasizes the importance of understanding quality, not just quantity, in life. He suggests that a shift from ownership to stewardship of the earth is necessary, fostering a sense of responsibility and care for the environment.

Grönholm also touches upon the idea of synergy, where collective efforts yield greater results than individual ones, and the need for a balanced approach that combines individual self-reliance with community cooperation. He concludes that a new societal paradigm based on human development, holistic understanding, and a sense of stewardship is essential for a sustainable and meaningful future.

Ad Astra: A New Company for a New Era

This section introduces 'Ad Astra,' a new company founded with the aim of promoting positive societal development. The company sells books by mail order and plans to publish its own works focused on peace, both inner and outer. Ad Astra's mission is to foster personal growth and spiritual development, believing that inner peace is a prerequisite for outer peace. The company's newsletter highlights positive news, inspiring thoughts, valuable books, and ethical businesses and food products.

It mentions initiatives like the Right Livelihood Award and youth exchange programs between East and West, emphasizing the importance of conflict resolution and global understanding. Ad Astra also promotes practices like meditation and visualisations for personal transformation. The company's philosophy is rooted in the idea of serving humanity as a path to growth and harmony. It also highlights the concept of 'Esoteric Christianity,' which focuses on love and brotherhood as guiding principles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around the transformative potential of the 'New Age' movement, the evolution of human values towards greater self-awareness and interconnectedness, and the need for societal change. The magazine advocates for a holistic worldview, emphasizing personal responsibility, community, and a move away from materialism towards spiritual and ethical development. The editorial stance appears to be one of optimism and encouragement, presenting these shifts as positive and necessary for the future of humanity and the planet.

Title: Kultur och livsvärden i en ny tid (Culture and Values in a New Era)
Issue: 2, Volume 1
Date: February 1981
Publisher: Sökaren

This issue of "Kultur och livsvärden i en ny tid" explores the burgeoning 'New Age' movement, alternative spirituality, and a shift in societal values, contrasting it with the prevailing 'faith in progress' driven by technology and economics. The magazine features a lead article by Eva Moberg, titled "Där hoppet står mot 'framstegstron'" (Where hope stands against the 'faith in progress'), which delves into the core ideas and challenges of this alternative cultural and philosophical current.

"Där hoppet står mot 'framstegstron'" by Eva Moberg

Eva Moberg argues that the current techno-economic system thrives on replacing deep-seated beliefs with trends and superficial opinions, thus preventing genuine personal transformation. She notes the rise of the 'New Age' or 'alternative society' movement, which has grown organically and is characterized by a network of ideas, groups, and individuals rather than a hierarchical structure. This movement encompasses environmentalism, anti-nuclear activism, women's rights, peace movements, animal welfare groups, indigenous support groups, the human potential movement, and various spiritual traditions, often influenced by Eastern philosophies.

Moberg highlights the convergence of these diverse movements around key principles: the urgent need to save and nurture life on Earth, and the imperative for humans to explore and expand their psychic abilities to meet this challenge. She points out that this alternative culture stands in stark contrast to the established economic and techno-industrial system, facing significant disadvantages in terms of resources and personnel.

The article critiques the notion that the 'New Age' is anti-intellectual or technophobic, asserting that it merely questions the prevailing culture's reliance on science and technology as a substitute for human values. It argues that 'expertise' has replaced 'reason,' and that the current trajectory poses a threat to humanity. Moberg emphasizes the need for courage, hope, and love to navigate this shift, warning against the fear of emotion and enthusiasm in political discourse, which can inadvertently give space to extremist ideologies.

She references philosopher Arne Naess, who posits that the true enemies of a free society are no longer found in the irrationalities of small sects but in the global irrationality created by dominant scientific worldviews. Naess calls for courageous proclamations of values that transcend purely rational or scientific perspectives.

Liv och intelligens i universum (Life and Intelligence in the Universe)

This section reports on a scientific seminar held in Wheaton, Illinois, in 1986, featuring Professor Renee Weber and Professor George Wald. Professor Weber provided a philosophical background on the nature of consciousness, contrasting Eastern views (consciousness as primary and creative) with Western views (consciousness as a product of organic evolution). She raised the question of whether the universe is guided by an external purpose or is a result of chance.

Professor George Wald, a Nobel laureate, presented an overview of both Western scientific and Eastern philosophical perspectives on consciousness and matter. He suggested that intelligence must have been a guiding element in the evolution of life on Earth, a concept that aligns with ancient Eastern philosophies and was contemplated by physicists like Einstein and Bohr. Wald posited that consciousness is not merely a byproduct of biological evolution but an inherent aspect of the universe, perhaps even a prerequisite for matter to exist and be known.

He discussed the paradox that while consciousness is fundamental to scientific inquiry, science itself cannot fully grasp or contain it, as it exists beyond the parameters of time and space. Wald also touched upon the idea that the observer and the observed are inseparable, a concept from modern physics. He proposed that the evolution of consciousness, paralleling physical evolution, occurred through cultural development, with knowledge being passed down through language, writing, and libraries.

Wald expressed concern about the potential for humanity to self-destruct due to competition between cultures, stating that a significant portion of his life has been dedicated to preventing this outcome.

Sai Babas mirakler (Sai Baba's Miracles)

This article details the efforts of a committee formed in India in 1976 to investigate alleged miracles, led by Dr. H. Narasimhaiah. The committee, initially focused on materializations, investigated a young boy named Sai Krishna who claimed to materialize ash. The committee exposed this as a trick, leading to public sensation.

Subsequently, the committee turned its attention to the more prominent figure, Sai Baba, who was credited with materializing objects, gold chains, and even transforming water into gasoline. Despite multiple attempts to request an investigation, Sai Baba and his followers refused access, with Sai Baba reportedly dismissing the committee members as insignificant. The article notes that the debate surrounding Sai Baba's credibility lasted for about eighteen months, sowing seeds of doubt among some of his followers.

Magneter mot cancer (Magnets Against Cancer)

This section discusses the growing interest in magnet therapy for treating cancer. It addresses claims made by Gösta Wollin and Erik Enby regarding a new 'super-magnet' for cancer treatment, which the author, Ivan Troëng, dismisses as ordinary with inflated claims about its magnetic field strength. Troëng contrasts Wollin's magnet with his own, highlighting the importance of magnet shape for effectiveness.

The article references research from the French Academy of Sciences in 1965, which suggested that a sufficient dose of magnetism could lead to the recovery of mice with cancer. Troëng notes that despite such findings, the dominance of chemical treatments in medicine has hindered the adoption of magnet therapy. He mentions ongoing trials using magnet therapy for prostate cancer and a magnet bench installed at Sahlgrenska Hospital in Gothenburg.

Troëng cites research by Mulay, who reportedly showed that cancer cells in a nutrient solution were killed by magnetic fields, while normal cells were unharmed. He also lists several scientific papers and authors related to magnet therapy.

Månadens nyheter från rymden (This Month's News from Space)

This section reports on changes at the Metascience Foundation, founded by George Meek, which will now focus on coordinating and supporting research into electronic voice phenomena rather than conducting it directly due to funding issues and Meek's age. The foundation will collaborate with researchers in Germany and Luxembourg.

An anecdote from Luxembourg is shared, involving a demonstration by Dr. Raudive where a woman named Annemarie M, who was Raudive's former secretary, was contacted via phone during a session. The author, Nils-Olof Jacobson, discusses the parapsychological implications, suggesting possibilities of telepathy, subconscious influence, or even self-trickery, highlighting the difficulty of scientifically proving such phenomena.

Utveckla din parapersonlighet (Develop Your Parapersonality)

This section announces a four-day course on psychic development led by medium Kurt Svensson and parapsychologist Örjan Björkhem. The course covers topics such as psychokinesis, clairvoyance, radiesthesia, and psychic sensitization, aiming to help participants develop their paranormal abilities.

Integrativ Primalterapi (Integrative Primal Therapy)

This section introduces courses in 'Integrative Primal Therapy' and 'Theme-Focused Psychoanalytic Psychodrama' led by Leo Berlips. The therapy focuses on processing deep-seated emotions and experiences from childhood, such as fear, anger, and the need for love, which are believed to be stored as blockages in the body. The courses aim to help participants release these blockages and overcome painful disturbances that affect their psychological well-being.

Genmäle till Östen Kjellman (Reply to Östen Kjellman)

Elvy Malmgren responds to an article by Östen Kjellman, who critically analyzed the historical figure of Jesus. Kjellman's analysis focused on physical actions and dismissed miracles and the divinity of Jesus as irrelevant to modern understanding. Malmgren argues that Kjellman's approach is selective and contradictory, particularly in dismissing the 'supernatural' while claiming faith in God. She defends the concept of miracles as a manifestation of God's unlimited power and criticizes Kjellman for taking Jesus' words out of context, such as the Sermon on the Mount, and for misinterpreting them according to his own agenda.

Malmgren emphasizes that the core ethical teachings of Jesus, like the Golden Rule, are universally applicable and that Kjellman's literal interpretation of biblical texts is inappropriate for modern society. She concludes that Kjellman's analysis is subjective and lacks scientific rigor.

Ny Martinuslitteratur (New Martinus Literature)

Nils-Olof Jacobson reviews several new books related to the teachings of the Danish mystic Martinus. He highlights Per Bruus-Jensen's comprehensive works, "X - en komplet indföring i Martinus kosmologi" and "Eksistens og udödelighed," which systematically explain Martinus' cosmology and epistemology. Jacobson also reviews "Slangens död" (The Serpent's Death), which outlines Martinus' vision of humanity's future, and books by Svend Age Rossen and Gunner Frederiksen that explore Martinus' views on death, reincarnation, and suffering.

The review also mentions John Engelbrecht's four-volume work, "Den intuitive tanke," which traces the history of intuitive thought and highlights figures who embraced it. The section concludes with a list of Martinus-related literature and information about a new journal, "Kosmologisk Information."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of alternative spirituality, holistic health, consciousness, and personal development. There is a clear interest in movements and ideas that challenge conventional scientific and societal paradigms, such as the 'New Age' movement, parapsychology, and esoteric philosophies. The editorial stance appears to be open to these alternative perspectives, providing a platform for discussions that bridge science, spirituality, and personal well-being, while also critically examining claims and offering different viewpoints, as seen in the response to Östen Kjellman's critique of Jesus.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: Nr 3, 1988
Publisher: Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Full year (10 issues) 165 SEK, Half year 90 SEK.
Editor: Sven Magnusson

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life philosophies, presents a significant proposal: the potential launch of a new, dedicated magazine for New Age culture and values in Sweden. Editor Sven Magnusson, in his introductory piece, describes a dream of creating a high-quality publication featuring Sweden's best New Age thinkers, theologians, scientists, and business people. This proposed magazine, tentatively named 'Hasso' in the dream and later 'Kultur och livsvärden' (Culture and values) or similar, would complement Sökaren's broader scope by focusing specifically on the best of New Age thought and acting as a voice for the 'new age's best ideas.'

Magnusson suggests that if this new magazine is realized, Sökaren might continue with six issues per year, while the new publication would have four. He also proposes a bundled subscription option for both magazines at a reduced price. To give readers a taste of what the new magazine could offer, this current issue of Sökaren includes several articles under the overarching theme 'Kultur och livsvärden i en ny tid' (Culture and values in a new era), featuring previously published works by respected writers.

Featured Articles and Content

New Magazine Proposal

• "En ny tidskrift?" (A new magazine?) by Sven Magnusson: This editorial outlines the vision for a new Swedish New Age magazine, detailing its potential scope, target audience, and the editor's aspirations for its impact.

Culture and Values in a New Era

• "Den planetära familjen" (The planetary family) by Marilyn Ferguson: Ferguson posits that all people on Earth constitute a single, large family.
• "Värden för en ny värld" (Values for a new world) by Jan Grönholm: Grönholm, described as one of Sweden's few native New Age authors and a pioneer, discusses values pertinent to a new era.
• "Där hoppet står mot 'framstegstron'" (Where hope stands against the 'belief in progress') by Eva Moberg: Moberg, a well-known writer sympathetic to New Age ideas, contrasts hope with the prevailing 'belief in progress'.
• "Liv och intelligens i universum" (Life and intelligence in the universe) by Victor B Eichler: Eichler presents a '200-year-old prophecy' concerning life and intelligence in the cosmos.
• "Sai Babas mirakler" (Sai Baba's miracles): This piece discusses Sai Baba's miracles, noting an unsuccessful attempt to scientifically study the miracle worker.
• "Magneter mot cancer" (Magnets against cancer) by Ivan Troëng: Troëng explores the potential of magnets in treating cancer.
• "Månadens nyheter från rymden" (This month's news from space) by Nils-Olof Jacobson: Jacobson provides updates on news related to space.
• "Genmäle till Östen Kjellman" (Reply to Östen Kjellman) by Elvy Malmgren: Malmgren responds to Östen Kjellman.
• "En teoretisk väg till kosmiskt medvetande" (A theoretical path to cosmic consciousness) by Nils-Olof Jacobson: Jacobson outlines a theoretical approach to achieving cosmic consciousness.
• "Kärleksmeditation" (Love meditation) by Eva Jagrell: Jagrell offers guidance on love meditation. She is also noted as a favorite poet of the editorial staff.
• "Footprints on the Path" by Eileen Caddy: Caddy's work is featured, likely offering spiritual guidance.
• "Snart är varannan svensk 'inrevärldsmänniska'." (Soon, every other Swede will be an 'innerworldly person'.) by Ingrid Olausson: Olausson, a respected New Age reporter in Sweden, suggests a growing trend towards inner focus among the Swedish population.
• "Nytänkarna stiger ut ur garderoberna" (New thinkers are stepping out of the closets) by Ingrid Olausson: Olausson reports on the increasing visibility of individuals with unconventional ideas.
• "Healer sökes" (Healer wanted) by Eva Jagrell: A call for a healer.

Other Featured Content

• "Vad är A Course in Miracles?" (What is A Course in Miracles?) by Gerald G Jampolsky: Jampolsky, described as one of the best New Age authors, explains the principles of 'A Course in Miracles'.
• "Identitetsskiftet" (The Identity Shift) by Peter Russell: Russell discusses a key New Age concept: the transition from the limited ego-self to a larger, universal self.
• "Vändpunkten" (The Turning Point) by Åsa Freij: Freij, known for her extensive reporting on New Age phenomena in Sweden, writes about a turning point and the youth movement within the New Age Association.
• Letters to Sökaren (Brev till Sökaren): A section for reader correspondence.
• Book Review (Bokrecension): A review of a published work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for the development of a dedicated platform for New Age thought in Sweden, positioning Sökaren as a broader, observational publication and the proposed new magazine as a more focused, advocacy-oriented one. Recurring themes include the evolution of consciousness, the interconnectedness of humanity, spiritual growth, and the exploration of alternative healing and belief systems. The editorial stance is one of enthusiastic support for the New Age movement and a desire to foster its intellectual and cultural development within Sweden.