Sokaren - 1988 No 07

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 7, ÅRGÅNG 25
Date: 1988
Price: 20:00 inkl. moms

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on culture and values for a new era, delves into themes of personal growth, societal change, and alternative lifestyles. The cover features a woman with a vegetarian meal, hinting at the issue's focus on healthy living and new cultural trends.

Articles and Features

"Nya tidsåldern – en kärlekens era?" (The New Age – An Era of Love?)

This article, written by Sven M, revisits the concept of 'love seekers' and the 'new age' first discussed in Sökaren in 1972. It describes these individuals as precursors to a new era, characterized by a shift from selfishness to love, creating a brotherhood that encompasses the world. They are seen as individuals who radiate joy and enthusiasm, seeking to live by the principle of love and acceptance. The article suggests that these 'love seekers' are creating 'centers of togetherness' based on love, goodwill, and mutual understanding, transcending religious or political divides. It emphasizes a growing awareness of love as a fundamental need for both self and others, leading to true satisfaction.

"Vegetarism – den nya tidens kostform" (Vegetarianism – The New Age Diet)

Authored by Sven M, this piece advocates for vegetarianism, noting its prevalence among 'New Age' followers. The article presents ethical reasons for abstaining from killing animals, but also highlights practical and global benefits. It references Frances Moore Lappé's 'Diet for a Small Planet,' stating that half of the world's cultivated land is used for livestock, with a significant loss of nutritional value in the conversion of feed to meat. From a global economic standpoint, vegetarianism is presented as more efficient, potentially feeding a larger population and requiring less energy. The author also suggests that a vegetarian diet is healthier and that our ancestors were primarily vegetarians. The piece concludes by asserting that vegetarianism enhances culinary enjoyment.

"Med SISU mot framtiden" (With SISU Towards the Future)

This section introduces the Swedish Institute for Social Inventions (SISU), founded in Stockholm in 1987. SISU defines 'social inventions' as creative solutions to social problems, new ways to improve quality of life, organizational structures, or applications of existing solutions. The article emphasizes that human creativity can manifest in social innovations, not just technical ones, citing examples like the school system or public pensions. SISU aims to promote the idea of social inventions to foster positive societal change and empower individuals. It draws inspiration from the Institute for Social Inventions in England and similar organizations in other countries. Examples of social inventions include a service connecting pensioners with families needing babysitters, the 'Institutet för framtiden' (IFF) which supports at-risk youth, and 'Kärngårdarna' (core farms) promoting self-sufficiency and preserving cultural heritage. The article also mentions two 'growth games': 'Livsstil' (Lifestyle) and 'The Transformation Game,' designed to stimulate social imagination and personal development.

"Ett ensamt träd – och miljoner..." (A Lonely Tree – and Millions...)

Written by Sten Lundgren, this evocative piece uses the metaphor of a lone tree in a desert to illustrate the concept of ecological systems and the importance of trees. It contrasts the barrenness of a treeless landscape with the life-sustaining oasis a single tree can create. The author extends this idea to a million trees, envisioning a green world with thriving agriculture and returning rainfall. The article highlights the critical role of trees in preventing soil erosion, providing food, fuel, and habitat, and binding moisture. It draws parallels with the scarcity of rain and money in Botswana ('Pula' meaning both) and the life-saving importance of a single mango tree in India. The piece laments the deforestation in countries like Ethiopia, leading to soil loss and famine, and argues that trees are the only long-term solution. It concludes with a call to action, urging readers to donate to tree-planting initiatives in deforested regions for the sake of the planet and future generations.

"'Bara amatörerna kan rädda mångfalden'" ('Only Amateurs Can Save Diversity')

This interview with Cary Fowler, an activist involved with Rural Advancement Fund International (RAFI), focuses on the urgent need to preserve genetic diversity in agriculture. Fowler states that humanity has only about 10-15 years left to save the diversity created over 15,000 years of agriculture. He argues that this task is best accomplished not by high-tech gene banks, but by 'eccentrics and crackpots' who love plants and old varieties. Fowler criticizes the modern plant breeding industry for accelerating the extinction of plant genetic heritage, noting that global gene banks are largely controlled by large corporations whose primary interest is commercial gain, not preservation. He emphasizes that developing countries, which are the origin of most plant species, are being exploited. Fowler advocates for a multi-pronged approach to conservation, involving local communities and ensuring that preserved varieties have practical uses. He highlights the work of organizations like RAFI and the 'Seed Savers' Exchange' in the US, which have documented far more varieties of plants than government-run gene banks.

"Assagiolis psykosyntes – några grundtankar" (Assagioli's Psychosynthesis – Some Basic Thoughts)

This article introduces the principles of psychosynthesis, founded by Roberto Assagioli. It explains that psychosynthesis views humans not as fixed entities, but as a collection of 'sub-personalities' that need to be integrated into a harmonious whole. The 'Self' is presented as the core of personality, a source of inner strength and awareness that remains constant amidst life's changes. Psychosynthesis aims to help individuals identify with their Self rather than their transient emotions or thoughts, leading to greater self-awareness, inner security, and a sense of purpose. The article draws parallels between psychosynthesis and Vedanta philosophy, suggesting that both traditions recognize a higher spiritual reality. It emphasizes the importance of the 'superconscious' – the highest aspect of our being – as a source of intuition, inspiration, and universal love.

"Problemlösning i den nya tidsåldern" (Problem Solving in the New Age)

Authored by Bengt Friberg, this piece argues that rational thinking, while effective for scientific and technical problems, is insufficient for addressing fundamental conflicts in human welfare, education, and society. Friberg critiques the limitations of a purely rationalistic worldview, referencing Georg Henrik von Wright's work. He introduces E.F. Schumacher's distinction between 'convergent' problems (solvable through accumulated expertise) and 'divergent' problems (where expertise leads to opposing viewpoints, like child-rearing or politics). Friberg suggests that divergent problems require higher-order qualities such as love, understanding, insight, and empathy, rather than just logic. He points to the growing distrust in established political parties and the rise of non-governmental organizations as evidence that citizens are seeking solutions beyond traditional political ideologies. The article concludes that societal problems can only be solved by citizens and organizations operating at a higher level of consciousness and ethical thinking, embodying 'brotherhood' as described by Schumacher.

"Ett alternativ till krig: civilmotstånd" (An Alternative to War: Civil Resistance)

This article features Gene Sharp, a Harvard researcher who advocates for civil resistance as an alternative to war. Sharp argues that wars can be abolished by changing our approach to conflict and employing non-violent methods. He highlights the effectiveness of tactics like strikes, protests, and non-cooperation against oppressive regimes. Sharp suggests that civil resistance is less costly in terms of human lives and resources than conventional warfare and can reduce the risk of nuclear conflict. He draws examples from historical movements, such as Poland's Solidarity and the Czech resistance in 1968, demonstrating how organized non-violent action can demoralize an aggressor and make a country ungovernable. The article outlines Gene Sharp's core ideas: conflicts are inevitable but can be managed non-violently; people will fight for their values, not just for peace; military technology will continue to advance, but defense can be separated from offense; brutal regimes can be resisted through non-violent action; and while disarmament is unlikely, civil resistance offers a viable alternative to war.

"New Age i Sökaren 1972" (New Age in Sökaren 1972)

This section is a retrospective look at an interview with Per Axel Atterbom published in Sökaren in 1972, discussing the concept of 'New Age.' Atterbom described it as the end of an old epoch and the beginning of a new one, with new social, economic, cultural, and religious values replacing the old. He believed that human capacity to understand eternal truths evolves with consciousness. Atterbom viewed Christianity as a stage in religious evolution that was now in decline, with its institutions becoming outdated. He predicted the emergence of new religions to meet the need for new spiritual concepts, likening religions to leaves on branches of a tree. He expressed interest in the Findhorn community in Scotland, describing it as a place where people of all ages and backgrounds lived in harmony, united by a shared vision of a new humanity and a new world. Atterbom noted that Findhorn operates on principles of love, cooperation, and interconnectedness with nature, and that its projects, often seemingly irrational, are guided by inner direction and divine providence.

"Assagiolis psykosyntes" (Assagioli's Psychosynthesis)

This section, likely a continuation or related piece to the earlier article on psychosynthesis, further explores the concept. It emphasizes the goal of integrating personality parts, guided by the Self, and draws parallels with Eastern philosophies like Vedanta. The idea of the 'superconscious' as a source of higher intuition and love is reiterated.

"Problemlösning i den nya tidsåldern" (Problem Solving in the New Age)

This article, by Bengt Friberg, likely expands on the earlier discussion of problem-solving, emphasizing the need for qualities beyond rational thought, such as love and empathy, to address complex societal issues.

"Tänk positivt!" (Think Positively!)

This is a review of Björn Ringom's book, which offers a program for personal development focused on positive thinking, visualization, and goal setting. The book is presented as a practical guide to unlocking one's creative potential and building a better future.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a vision of a 'new age' characterized by spiritual growth, alternative lifestyles, and a move away from materialism and outdated societal structures. There is a strong emphasis on personal responsibility, self-sufficiency, and environmental consciousness. The editorial stance appears to be progressive and open to new ideas, particularly those related to holistic health, non-violence, and social innovation. The magazine encourages readers to question conventional norms and actively participate in creating a more harmonious and sustainable future.

This issue of *Sökaren* (Nr. 2, 1989) is titled 'Katharsis i vår tid' (Catharsis in our time) and features a critical examination of contemporary therapeutic approaches and the UFO movement. The magazine, published by Sökaren, has an issue date of 1989 and a price of 35 kr, with an estimated circulation of 3,000 copies.

Criticism of New Era Therapies

Katharsis i vår tid: Kritik av nya tidens terapier

Eric Danielsen's book *Skärseldsterapier* is central to the critique of modern therapies. Danielsen argues that the explosion of therapeutic techniques, particularly those focusing on emotional release, are variations on an old theme of catharsis. He contends that these therapies are expensive, accessible mainly to the wealthy, and promote anti-intellectualism and passivity. Instead of addressing real social and economic conflicts, they encourage a narcissistic introspection, offering superficial solutions to deep-seated problems.

#### Fritz Perls and Gestalt Therapy

Fritz Perls, the founder of Gestalt therapy, is presented as a proponent of living in the 'now'. His philosophy emphasizes self-awareness and experiencing the present moment as sufficient to resolve neurotic problems. Key tenets include focusing on the present, accepting what is, experiencing reality directly, and taking responsibility for one's actions. However, Danielsen criticizes Perls for neglecting societal realities and for promoting an individualistic philosophy that lacks social responsibility and solidarity.

#### Alexander Lowen and Bioenergetics

Alexander Lowen, founder of bioenergetics, believes that inner conflicts manifest as physical tension. He advocates for treating both body and mind, asserting that every neurotic symptom has a bodily counterpart. Lowen emphasizes the importance of bodily contact for experiencing joy and avoiding depression. Danielsen labels this a 'body obsession' that offers illusory solutions.

#### Arthur Janov and Primal Therapy

Arthur Janov's primal therapy, a form of scream therapy, aims to release 'frozen pain' by allowing individuals to express repressed emotions. Janov claims his method can cure a wide range of psychological and physical ailments. Critics like Kelley and Kaufmann point out that Janov's ideas are not entirely original, building heavily on the work of Wilhelm Reich and Freud. The high cost of Janov's therapy (around $7000) is also highlighted.

#### Daniel Casriel and Scream Therapy

Daniel Casriel uses a variant of scream therapy, focusing on four 'basic emotions': fear, anger, pain, and pleasure/love. His method aims to help patients reframe their self-perception through intense emotional experiences. Group sessions involve confrontation and can be emotionally charged, oscillating between anger and affection.

#### Werner Erhard and EST

Werner Erhard's EST (Erhard Seminars Training) promises life transformation in 60 hours. It involves intensive group training where participants are subjected to harsh criticism and humiliation. EST emphasizes individual responsibility and subjective experience, denying the existence of an objective reality. Danielsen criticizes EST for promoting anti-intellectualism, distrust of logic, and a focus on purely individualistic solutions, leading to passivity and a lack of social engagement. It is described as producing 'satisfied people who are effective in their work and do not cause trouble.'

The UFO Movement: Has it a Future?

Har UFO-rörelsen en framtid? (Does the UFO movement have a future?)

Håkan Blomqvist discusses the decline of the UFO movement in Sweden, noting a significant drop in participation at UFO-Sverige's national conferences. He traces the movement's origins in the US in the 1950s, linking it to underground culture, mysticism, and occultism, with figures like George Adamski and Desmond Leslie promoting 'contactee' messages from 'space brothers.'

Early UFO organizations like APRO and NICAP attempted a more scientific approach but were often overshadowed by sensationalist claims. In Sweden, the movement was heavily influenced by the publisher Parthenon and followed the 'Adamski line.'

Carl Axel Jonzon's formation of UFO-Sverige in 1970 aimed to unite various UFO groups, but retained a missionary zeal to convince people of UFO reality. Blomqvist and Anders Liljegren left UFO-Sverige in 1973 due to its approach, advocating for research over persuasion. They cite Jacques Vallée's critique of large, formal organizations that prioritize psychological needs over genuine research.

Blomqvist argues that UFO-Sverige is now a lost and hesitant organization, still influenced by missionary thinking but also making some research efforts. He criticizes the magazine *UFO-aktuellt* for its lack of clear editorial direction and its reliance on newspaper clippings and phone interviews, leading to superficial investigations and the spread of 'walking myths.'

A key criticism is the movement's failure to consider the psychological aspects of UFO experiences, accepting myths and anecdotes as facts. Blomqvist points to the Tungelsta case in 1969 as an example of a poorly investigated UFO sighting that was later explained as a rocket launch. He concludes that the UFO movement, as it has been conducted, is a pseudoscientific phenomenon with no future, attracting idealists and mystics. He advocates for a research-based approach, free from cult-like structures, focusing on facts rather than persuasion.

Personal Journeys and Beliefs

Livsbilder (Life Pictures)

Birgitta Fries-Ossiann reflects on family photos and the concept of destiny, questioning whether character is fixed from childhood. She explores themes of self-realization and the possibility of change through inner transformation, drawing parallels to fairy tales where heroes find guidance at life's crossroads.

Håkan Blomqvist: Religion, metafysik och ockultism är nonsens!

Håkan Blomqvist, who was once an anthroposophist, theosophist, and hylozoist, now dismisses these beliefs as 'nonsense.' He describes his journey from a childhood influenced by his parents' spiritual views to a rationalist stance based on scientific methods and common sense. He criticizes religious interpretations for being life-hostile and for suppressing human needs. Blomqvist identifies as a humanist, emphasizing compassion, solidarity, and mutual support. He views God's existence as unprovable and therefore meaningless, leaning towards agnosticism and materialism. He warns against the dangers of cult-like groups, such as Hare Krishna, and criticizes theosophy as 'life-hostile drivel.' He interprets his past 'inner voice' experiences as feedback from his subconscious, not divine guidance. While open to research on parapsychological phenomena, he is skeptical of UFO visitations, suggesting that many reports stem from psychological factors like mythomania or visionary experiences.

Brev (Letters)

Björn Sahlin writes to Sven, offering reflections on the magazine *Gnosis* and its potential shift towards New Age themes. He advises caution in making changes to avoid alienating existing readers and suggests a gradual evolution to a New Age focus over time.

K. E. Steffens responds to Håkan Blomqvist's critique of Leadbeater, acknowledging some points but defending Leadbeater's character. Steffens reiterates his critical stance on theosophy and anthroposophy, expressing concern that the New Age movement is too heavily influenced by occultism.

Bokrecensioner (Book Reviews)

Several books are reviewed:

• *Grunnor* by Erik Lindkvist, a collection of aphorisms.
• *Konfiskerad (1986)* by Roland Persson.
• *Världens bästa citat* (World's Best Quotes) edited by Uriel Hedengren.
• *The serpent and the rainbow* by Wade Davis.
• *Sinneskontrollens hemlighet* (The Secret of Mind Control) by Narayanananda.
• *The Wind of Change* by Harold Klemp.
• *The Book of Eck Parables* by Harold Klemp.
• *Soul Travelers of the Far Country* by Harold Klemp.
• *ECKANKAR, An Introduction*.
• *Nordisk ECKANKAR Journal*.
• *Kreativ Visualisering* (Creative Visualization) by Shakti Gawain.
• *Arbetsbok i Kreativ Visualisering* (Workbook in Creative Visualization) by Shakti Gawain.
• *Att Leva i Ljuset* (To Live in the Light) by Shakti Gawain.
• *Musikens Helande Kraft* (The Healing Power of Music) by Hal A. Lingerman.
• *Se Bättre* (See Better) by Martin Brofman.
• *Du Kan Hela Ditt Liv* (You Can Heal Your Life) by Louise L. Hay.
• *Sex tänkande hattar* (Six Thinking Hats) by Edward de Bono.
• *Positiv påverkan* (Positive Influence) by John M. Steinberg.
• *Hjärngympa* (Brain Gym) by Arthur and Ruth Winter.
• *Buss 9 till Paradiset* (Bus 9 to Paradise) by Leo Buscaglia.
• *Om barn och döden* (On Children and Death) by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross.
• *Sverige är fantastiskt men hur länge?* (Sweden is fantastic, but for how long?) by Stefan Edman.
• *Saftfasta och råkostkur* (Juice Fasting and Raw Food Diet) by Grethe Schmidt.
• *Ändligt och oändligt spel* (Finite and Infinite Games) by James P. Carse.
• *Otillåtet* (Forbidden) by Birgitta Wistrand.
• *Introduktion till transaktions-analys* (Introduction to Transactional Analysis) by Stefan Sandström.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine *Sökaren* consistently promotes a rationalist and critical perspective, questioning spiritual, occult, and New Age beliefs while advocating for scientific inquiry and common sense. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness combined with critical analysis, encouraging readers to form their own conclusions based on evidence and reason. There is a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and the importance of intellectual honesty. The magazine also serves as a platform for discussing societal issues and alternative viewpoints, though it remains critical of unsubstantiated claims and dogmatic thinking.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 7, 1988
Date: July 1988
Publisher: Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Full year (10 issues) 165:-, Half year 90:-
Circulation: 3000

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish journal for worldview issues, features a variety of articles and commentaries on topics ranging from religion and psychology to UFOs and societal change.

Commentary Section

The "Kommentarer" (Commentaries) section opens with a piece by Håkan Blomqvist, who asserts that religions are inherently harmful. He suggests that the UFO movement should prioritize research over becoming a popular movement, stating that "UFO research has a future? Research is needed, not a popular movement." He also controversially claims, "Religion, metaphysics, and occultism are nonsense!" This viewpoint is presented as that of a converted Håkan Blomqvist.

In contrast, the magazine's unnamed commentator (likely the editor, SM) offers a more balanced perspective, suggesting that religious faith can be beneficial if interpreted in a way that aids the individual. They draw parallels between religious faith and psychotherapy, arguing that both can be positive if applied to benefit the person. The commentator emphasizes the importance of personal discernment in interpreting religious texts or therapeutic systems, rather than accepting them as absolute truths. They also critique the notion of pure rationality, pointing out that human thought is complex and influenced by subjective elements.

Articles and Features

• "Nya tidsåldern - en kärlekens era?" (The New Age - an era of love?) by SM. This short piece posits that love is not shameful but beneficial.

• "Vegetarism - den nya tidens kostform" (Vegetarianism - the new age's diet form) by SM. This article refutes the claim that avoiding animal protein can lead to madness, citing a supposed Australian researcher's assertion and calling it incorrect.

• "Med SISU mot framtiden" (With SISU towards the future). This section discusses social inventions that improve the world.

• "Ett ensamt träd - och miljoner..." (A lonely tree - and millions...) by Sten Lundgren. Lundgren reflects on the significance of trees and encourages planting them.

• "'Bara amatörerna kan rädda mångfalden.'" ('Only amateurs can save biodiversity.') by Peter Einarsson. This article highlights the importance of amateur contributions to biodiversity.

• "Ett alternativ till krig: civilmotstånd" (An alternative to war: civil disobedience). This piece explores civil disobedience as a future form of struggle.

• "Assagiolis psykosyntes" (Assagiolis Psychosynthesis). This likely introduces or discusses the therapeutic approach of Assagiolis.

• "Problemlösning i den nya tidsåldern" (Problem-solving in the new age) by Bengt Friberg. Friberg discusses problem-solving in the context of the new age.

• "New Age i Sökaren 1972" (New Age in Sökaren 1972). This references a previous article from 16 years prior, indicating a long-standing interest in the New Age concept.

• "Katharsis i vår tid. Kritik av nya tidens terapier" (Catharsis in our time. Critique of new age therapies). This article offers a critical look at contemporary therapies associated with the New Age.

• "Livsbilder" (Life Pictures) by Birgitta Fries-Ossiann.

Legal and Personal News

• "Bengt Stern överklagar" (Bengt Stern appeals). This report details that doctor Bengt Stern has appealed a warning issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare. The Administrative Court in Stockholm has overturned one warning, while a second warning issued this year has also been appealed by Stern, with the outcome still uncertain.

Book Reviews

• Bokrevy (Book Review). The magazine notes that its review section has diminished due to a lack of energy but hopes that reviews from the journal "Bokrevy" might compensate. A review of Eileen Caddy's "Footprints on the Path" is included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a continued interest in "New Age" concepts, exploring their implications for society, therapy, and personal development. There is a clear engagement with philosophical and psychological ideas, contrasting different viewpoints on religion and rationality. The magazine also maintains a focus on contemporary issues, including environmentalism (biodiversity, planting trees) and alternative forms of social action (civil disobedience). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse perspectives while also offering critical commentary, particularly on the potential pitfalls of certain belief systems or therapeutic trends. The inclusion of a legal report on Dr. Bengt Stern suggests an interest in matters of professional conduct and the justice system as they relate to healthcare practitioners.