Sokaren - 1988 No 04-5

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR4-5
Volume: 25
Date: 1988
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: Nya Tidsåldern är en positiv realitet för många (The New Age is a positive reality for many)

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1988, explores the multifaceted nature of the New Age movement and its growing influence on culture and values. The cover image depicts a gathering of people participating in a New Age event called "Jordens Sång" (Earth's Song) at Café Pan in Stockholm. The issue features a collection of articles that define, analyze, and discuss various aspects of New Age thought and practice.

Articles and Themes

Mänsklighetens enhet (Humanity's Unity)

This short piece by Stephen Boadu from Ghana emphasizes the fundamental unity of humankind, transcending physical differences like skin color. It highlights shared human experiences of singing, laughing, dancing, and working together as expressions of this inherent unity, advocating for a world built on love, peace, and harmony.

New Age – en positiv kraft i tiden (New Age – A Positive Force in Our Time)

This editorial by Sven M. discusses the increasing global awareness of interconnectedness, likening humanity to a group of mountain climbers bound by a rope. It notes a growing willingness for global cooperation, influenced by the New Age movement's vision of unity and a shared future. The article also points to the rise of environmentalist movements and new leadership in Soviet politics as signs of this evolving consciousness.

New Age – vad är det? (New Age – What Is It?)

Jonathan Adolph, an editor for New Age magazine, provides an overview of the New Age movement. He defines it as a utopian vision for a better world, a "new age" characterized by harmony between humanity, nature, and the cosmos. Adolph notes that many people are questioning traditional beliefs and seeking new ways of understanding reality. He cites thinkers like David Spangler and Marilyn Ferguson, who describe New Age not as a political, religious, or philosophical system, but as a new consciousness and worldview that is rapidly transforming culture. Ferguson likens this shift to a global "paradigm shift," similar to the scientific revolutions of Copernicus and Einstein.

Adolph clarifies that New Age is not a religion, though spiritual awareness is considered essential by many. He explains that this spiritual awareness often begins with a feeling of interconnectedness with all things, a concept exemplified by astronaut Edgar Mitchell's perspective from space. He also touches upon various practices like meditation, lucid dreaming, and prayer that can foster this expanded consciousness.

David Spangler's idea that "heaven is here on earth every day" and that "life is sacred" is presented as a core New Age tenet. This perspective encourages seeing the sacredness in everyday activities, nature, and fellow human beings, leading to a transformation of actions.

However, Adolph cautions that not everything labeled New Age is valuable, warning against misleading elements and commercial exploitation. He refutes the extreme view, presented by Constance Cumbey, that New Age is a satanic cult aiming for world domination.

Adolph suggests that the optimism within New Age can be traced to humanistic psychology and the human potential movement of the 1960s and 70s, citing Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, who emphasized personal growth and the search for meaning.

Banbrytarna: Näring och Liv (The Trailblazers: Nourishment and Life)

This section introduces "Näring och Liv" (Nourishment and Life), an initiative focused on creating a "nurturing world." The article uses the symbol of Yggdrasil, the world tree, to represent transformation and a shift in perspective from a Viking-era worldview to an astronaut's view of Earth. It emphasizes that while external resources are available, true change comes from within, from individuals taking responsibility for their future and expressing their potential.

"Näring och Liv" is presented not as a project but as a "being" or a living entity. It focuses on ethics and morality, shaping thoughts, feelings, and actions. The core idea is to foster a transformation of business and organizations by changing the reference frames and attitudes of their members. It contrasts the "shadow world" of fear, competition, and scarcity with the "light world" of abundance, synergy, and contribution.

The concept of "corporate ecology" is introduced, advocating for a new approach to business that considers the individual's and the organization's role within the ecosystem. It emphasizes personal transformation as the foundation for organizational change and highlights the unique mission of each individual and enterprise.

The article also discusses the concept of "value starvation" in developed countries, where a lack of meaning and purpose leads to spiritual emptiness, contrasting it with physical hunger. It suggests that "Näring och Liv" aims to provide a new perspective on motivation and leadership, moving beyond external rewards to intrinsic drives like purpose and meaning.

Nytänkande och helhetssyn (New Thinking and Holistic View)

This article introduces "Nytänkarna" (New Thinkers), an organization founded in Stockholm in 1982 by five women, including actress Bibi Andersson. Nytänkarna organizes seminars and events focused on new ways of perceiving humanity, science, and the world. They emphasize the importance of self-understanding for understanding others, leading to a holistic view of existence and greater responsibility.

The organization hosts lectures by prominent figures in fields like psychology, physics, and futurism. Nytänkarna aims to foster networks and collaboration to spread new thinking and holistic perspectives. The article notes the growing interest in their activities, with approximately 1000 members in Stockholm and a developing branch in West Sweden.

Panteism (Panteism)

This short section features a quote by Lars Holmgren, likely related to the theme of pantheism, which posits that God is identical with the universe. The quote suggests that life itself is the storyteller and that individual voices merge into a singular, self-understanding Voice.

Peter Norrthon – en av nya tidens pionjärer (Peter Norrthon – One of the Pioneers of the New Age)

Written by Åsa Freij, this article profiles Peter Norrthon, a key figure in the New Age movement. Norrthon, who runs the publishing house Ad Astra, is presented as a pioneer who advocates for a holistic approach to life, integrating practical environmental concerns with spiritual development. He believes in the urgent need to address the critical state of the planet and advocates for a fundamental shift in life direction. Norrthon emphasizes the importance of personal example and the need to integrate spiritual and ecological perspectives.

The article touches upon Norrthon's personal journey, including his past in the military and his experiences with divorce, which he views as catalysts for inner growth. He highlights the lack of formal education in "how to be human" within mainstream society and stresses the importance of self-discovery and personal responsibility.

Norrthon's work includes translating books on personal development and esoteric subjects, and he is involved in various projects related to ecology and spirituality. He advocates for a worldview where Earth is seen as "Mother Earth," a living entity, and emphasizes personal responsibility, inner development, and the integration of ecological and spiritual principles. He also mentions initiatives like "Right Livelihood Award" and "Social Inventions in Sweden" (SISU).

Angreppen på New Age (Attacks on New Age)

Nils Bjørn Kvastad addresses common criticisms leveled against the New Age movement, particularly from Christian circles, the scientific community, and some political groups. He refutes the notion that New Age is a religion, arguing that it is a broader worldview that can be embraced alongside existing religions. Kvastad also debunks the accusation of fascism, highlighting New Age's emphasis on pacifism, cosmopolitanism, and feminism, contrasting these with the militaristic, nationalistic, and anti-feminist tenets of fascism.

He also counters the claim that New Age promotes escapism, pointing to the active involvement of environmental groups like Greenpeace and the feminist and peace movements. Kvastad acknowledges that some aspects of New Age, particularly its focus on mental techniques and meditation, can be perceived as inward-looking, but argues that this inward turn is a necessary counterbalance to the excessive external stimuli of modern society.

Kvastad defends New Age against accusations of being anti-intellectual or anti-rational, noting that some New Age adherents engage with modern physics and parapsychology, employing rigorous scientific methods. He suggests that the movement's perceived anti-intellectualism stems from its emphasis on experiential knowledge and consciousness, which can be difficult to articulate within purely intellectual frameworks.

En ny tidsålder för tron (A New Age for Faith)

This article explores the shift from a materialistic, Newtonian view of the universe to a more holistic and consciousness-centered understanding, influenced by modern physics. It highlights that atoms are not solid particles but forms of energy and that the universe is increasingly seen as a "great thought" rather than a mere machine. The article suggests that consciousness is now recognized as a fundamental aspect of reality, challenging the notion of a purely material existence.

It draws parallels between the insights of modern physics and ancient mystical traditions, both of which posit a unified, conscious universe. The article notes that New Age adherents are particularly interested in these new scientific perspectives, seeing them as validation for their own beliefs.

Energivågen (Energy Wave)

This section introduces "Energivågen," a free magazine that announces various New Age activities and events in Sweden. It showcases a wide range of offerings, including meditation retreats, holistic therapies, astrological courses, and healing workshops. The article notes that while many of these activities aim for positive personal change, some may be less beneficial. "Energivågen" is published in 10,000 copies and is available through subscription or at select locations.

Findhorn

This piece describes the Findhorn Foundation in Scotland, a renowned New Age center founded in 1962. It is characterized as a spiritual hub and a place for New Age practitioners to find inspiration and experience the movement's ethos. Findhorn operates as a collective and conference center, emphasizing a philosophy of planetary consciousness development and the creation of a culture based on spiritual values. It promotes the idea of life as a classroom, where daily interactions foster personal growth and transformation. The core principle at Findhorn is the experience of the unity of all life.

Teilhard de Chardins tänkande (The Thinking of Teilhard de Chardin)

Written by Ingrid Olausson, this article examines the influential ideas of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, a scientist and Jesuit priest. It highlights his belief in a meaningful universe where human consciousness plays a crucial role in its development. The article explains that Teilhard's work, particularly his book "How I Believe," aimed to articulate his comprehensive worldview, which integrated scientific findings with theological insights. Despite facing opposition from some within the Catholic Church, his ideas gained significant traction among scientists, philosophers, and futurists worldwide.

Teilhard de Chardin's worldview posits a universe in constant evolution, moving towards a spiritual culmination. He saw the absolute reflected in nature's diversity and believed in the inherent potential for personal and collective development. His research on human origins, including the discovery of Sinanthropus (Peking Man), provided a scientific basis for his theories. The article notes that Teilhard's work bridged the gap between science and spirituality, advocating for a holistic understanding of existence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around the New Age movement, its philosophy, and its impact on society. There is a strong emphasis on interconnectedness, consciousness, personal transformation, and ecological awareness. The magazine appears to present a generally positive view of the New Age, highlighting its potential for positive change while also acknowledging and addressing criticisms. The editorial stance seems to be one of exploration and open-mindedness towards alternative spiritual and philosophical perspectives, encouraging readers to consider these ideas for personal and global well-being.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 9
Year: 1989
Theme: Culture and values of life in a new era, exploring philosophy, spirituality, self-help, and socio-political issues.

Teilhard de Chardin: Culture and Values of Life in a New Era

This section explores the life and philosophy of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, a Jesuit priest, paleontologist, and philosopher. Despite facing opposition from the Catholic Church, his work gained significant influence after his death in 1955. His ideas on evolution, consciousness, and the convergence of humanity towards a universal consciousness (the Omega Point) are presented. Teilhard believed that human consciousness is a crucial part of the universe's evolutionary process, moving towards greater complexity and interconnectedness. He introduced the concept of the 'noosphere,' the sphere of human thought, which is now widely used by scientists and philosophers. The article highlights how modern scientific theories, such as those of Rupert Sheldrake (morphic fields) and James Lovelock (Gaia hypothesis), resonate with Teilhard's holistic view of an organic, interconnected universe.

"Do What You Want, Then the Money Will Come!" by Marsha Sinetar

Marsha Sinetar, a psychologist, discusses the importance of finding personal fulfillment in one's work. She contrasts the common view of work as a drudgery with the perspective of those who find joy and purpose in their careers. Sinetar argues that true fulfillment comes from aligning one's work with their inner calling, leading to personal growth and a sense of wholeness. She differentiates between genuine passion for work and workaholism, emphasizing that the former is driven by love and dedication, while the latter stems from fear and an inability to face personal issues. Sinetar shares a personal anecdote about realizing that pursuing her passion for writing and teaching would lead to financial success, a realization that transformed her life.

The Swedish Tibet Committee: A Personal Account by David Ståhl

David Ståhl recounts his experiences as a member and later chairman of the Swedish Tibet Committee in the 1970s and 1980s. He describes his initial interest in Tibet sparked by books like 'Seven Years in Tibet' and his involvement with the committee, which aimed to raise awareness about Tibet's situation under Chinese occupation. Ståhl details the ideological struggles within the committee, particularly the conflict between those who supported China and those who advocated for Tibet's independence. He also discusses the challenges of engaging members and the eventual decline of the committee's activities due to a lack of active participation. Ståhl criticizes the tendency to debate Tibet's historical status rather than focusing on its present situation and highlights the importance of political neutrality for the committee.

Henry T. Laurency and Theosophy

This article critically examines the teachings of Henry T. Laurency, a follower of Theosophy and Charles Leadbeater. The author, Håkan Blomqvist, links Laurency's 'hylozoism' to Gnosticism and criticizes its dualistic worldview and elitist tendencies. The article delves into the controversial life of Charles Leadbeater, accusing him of being a mythomaniac and detailing allegations of homosexual misconduct with minors, which led to his expulsion from the Theosophical Society. The author also discusses Leadbeater's alleged use of sexual magic and his aversion to women, drawing parallels with Adolf Hitler's ideology. Blomqvist concludes that hylozoism, with its anti-democratic and antisemitic undertones, poses a cultural danger and a breeding ground for fascism.

Other Articles and Sections

• Native American Indian Medicine and Magic: A brief mention of a presentation by Harley Swiftdeer's apprentices on shamanic healing practices.
• Hälsohemmet Igelkotten: Testimonials from individuals who experienced significant health improvements, including relief from diabetes, colitis, allergies, and migraines, after visiting this health center.
• Leonardo's: An introduction to a new center for seekers and health enthusiasts offering activities focused on inner development and physical well-being.
• Inner Skiing: An activity that combines skiing with personal growth, aiming to help participants realize their goals and desires.
• Orr i Sverige: A mention of Leonard Orr, the creator of the rebirthing method, discussing his teachings on wealth and spiritual enlightenment.
• Nå ditt inre på Hawaii: An invitation to a retreat in Hawaii focusing on inner purification and personal development.
• "Tvungen att skriva”: An introduction to author Marianne Fredriksson and her approach to writing.
• Tomas Frankell has changed roles: News about Tomas Frankell's transition from co-founder of Pan Helhetscenter to the theater industry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of personal growth, spirituality, alternative health, and socio-political issues, often with a critical lens towards established institutions and conventional thinking. There's a recurring interest in esoteric traditions, philosophical inquiries into consciousness and evolution, and practical advice for self-improvement. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring unconventional ideas and challenging societal norms, while also maintaining a critical perspective on potentially harmful ideologies, as seen in the critique of hylozoism and the historical account of the Swedish Tibet Committee.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 4-5
Volume: 1988
Publisher: Sven Magnusson
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish journal for worldviews, features a diverse range of articles touching upon spirituality, ufology, self-help, and personal development.

Poetry and Philosophy

The issue opens with the poem "Vän, i förödelsens stund..." by Erik Johan Stagnelius, a poignant reflection on finding solace and divine presence amidst darkness and chaos. The poem concludes with the striking line, "Natten är dagens mor, Kaos är granne med Gud."

Ufology and Skepticism

An article discusses the AFU (Archive for UFO Research) newsletter and its editor Anders Liljegren's perspective on the Norwegian skeptical organization NIVFO. Liljegren suggests that while NIVFO's bulletin is useful, it sometimes unfairly criticizes former UFO colleagues. He advocates for "devil's advocates" within Swedish ufology to critically examine UFO phenomena. The magazine also mentions the Franz Bardon Foundation, dedicated to propagating Hermetic knowledge.

New Age and Spirituality

Several articles explore the New Age movement. "New Age - en positiv kraft i tiden" (New Age - a positive force in time) aims to highlight the strengths of the movement. "Angreppen på New Age" (Attacks on New Age) by Nils Bjørn Kvastad argues that much of the criticism against the movement is ill-founded. The issue also features an article on "Panteism" by Lars Holmgren and "Peter Norrthon, en av nya tidens pionjärer" (Peter Norrthon, one of the pioneers of the new age) by Åsa Freij.

Book Reviews and Self-Help

The magazine includes several book reviews and recommendations for personal growth. "Uppmuntringsböcker" (Encouragement Books) by Nils-Olof Jacobson reviews several titles:

• Lär dig klara stress (Learn to Handle Stress) by Anita von Schéele, a practical guide to stress management and self-confidence.
• Uppmuntra mera! (Encourage More!) by Mike Pegg, offering tips on how to encourage oneself and others.
• Förstå dina drömmar - En nyckel till självkännedom (Understand Your Dreams - A Key to Self-Knowledge) by Louise Minerva Frostegren, exploring dream interpretation for self-awareness.
• Läk din kropp (Heal Your Body) by Louise Hay, which links physical ailments to mental causes and suggests affirmations for healing.
• Din gränslösa styrka (Your Limitless Strength) by Anthony Robbins, an introduction to NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming).
• Om konsten att älska andra (On the Art of Loving Others) by Bertil Mårtensson, focusing on giving, unconditional love.

Another review covers Nils Kalén's book Tio Guds bud och Tredje Testamentet (Ten Commandments and the Third Testament), which reinterprets the commandments through the lens of Martinus cosmology.

"Tomtar på loftet?" (Gnomes in the Attic?) reviews Dénis Lindbohm's book Trollmakt (Magic Power), which explores encounters with folklore beings and presents a mystical cosmology.

Marianne Coyet's book Min väg till hälsa (My Path to Health) is also highlighted, detailing her journey to overcome chronic illnesses through a healthy lifestyle, including fasting and vegetarianism.

Other Features

The issue includes information about various spiritual and self-development courses and organizations:

• Kristaller! (Crystals!) seeks individuals sensitive to crystal radiation for a scientific project.
• Stödföreningen för Djupterapi (The Support Association for Deep Therapy) focuses on life experiences rather than chemical causes for mental illness.
• Aurora, a bookstore specializing in philosophy, astrology, therapy, and New Age literature.
• Mystery House offers literature on tarot, pendars, and numerology.
• Teaterkurs på Hven (Theater Course on Hven) offers creative development through movement, imagination, and theater history.
• Sommerskole (Summer School) and Hierarchical Training Ashram in Denmark, led by Ananda Tara Shan, focusing on spiritual training.
• Besegra Din rädsla – Gå på glödande kol! (Conquer Your Fear – Walk on Glowing Coals!) a workshop led by medium Gary Mulberry.
• Rajayoga offers instruction in physical and mental self-control.
• Human-Etiska Förbundet (HEF) is for those interested in life philosophy without belief in God.
• Ivan Troëng: MAGNETTERAPINS GRUNDER (Ivan Troëng: Fundamentals of Magnet Therapy) offers a book on magnet therapy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of alternative spiritualities, the New Age movement, and personal growth. The magazine appears to promote an open-minded approach to these subjects, encouraging critical thinking while also presenting various perspectives and practices. The editorial stance seems to favor a holistic view of well-being, integrating spiritual, mental, and physical health. There is a clear interest in bridging traditional wisdom with modern understanding, as seen in the reinterpretation of religious texts and the exploration of esoteric practices.