Sokaren - 1989 No 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1989, volume 26, number 1, features a prominent cover story on author Whitley Strieber and his alleged UFO abduction experiences. The magazine also delves into themes of spiritual healing and personal development, with articles on Louise L. Hay and a healer named Sven-Bertil Andersson.

Whitley Strieber: Abducted by UFOs?

The main article, an interview conducted by Håkan Blomqvist, explores the controversial claims made by best-selling author Whitley Strieber in his book "Communion: A True Story – Encounters with the Unknown." Strieber, known for his horror novels, shocked readers by detailing his alleged abduction by UFOs on December 26, 1985. He describes waking to a strange sound, encountering a short figure, losing consciousness, and then finding himself in a clearing with alien beings. He recounts being examined in a room, experiencing a procedure involving a needle near his brain, and a triangular object being inserted rectally for examination. Strieber describes feeling his personality dissolve in terror and later experiencing physical discomfort, including an infection and pain.

Following these experiences, Strieber sought help from UFO researchers Bud Hopkins and Dr. Donald Klein, undergoing hypnosis sessions that revealed further details about his encounters, including being told he was 'chosen.' The article notes Strieber's transformation from a successful horror writer to a controversial figure, facing ridicule from literary circles. Despite the personal cost, Strieber published "Communion," which became a bestseller, selling millions of copies in the US.

The interview details two more alleged physical encounters. In the second, on December 23, 1986, Strieber met a being resembling an Earth woman who used a brass object to tranquilize his cat and then Strieber himself, causing him to lose consciousness. The third encounter, in January 1988, involved Strieber and his wife hearing a sound and seeing a large gray object on the ground with three figures. Strieber also mentions experiencing numerous psychic phenomena and 'missing time' incidents prior to his UFO contacts.

The article questions the veracity of Strieber's claims, exploring possibilities ranging from deliberate fabrication for commercial success to internal psychological experiences or 'exteriorizations' of his subconscious. It notes Strieber's background in various esoteric groups, including The Gurdjieff Foundation and his interest in mysticism, which some skeptics, like Philip Klass and Ernest H. Taves, suggest could influence his perceptions.

Despite the skepticism, the article acknowledges that Strieber's book has resonated with many, and other individuals have reported similar experiences. Journalist Ed Conroy is mentioned as writing a book about 'Communion,' corroborating some events.

Louise L. Hay: Love Yourself!

Another significant article focuses on Louise L. Hay, an author and spiritual teacher popular for her message of self-love. The article describes her simple yet profound message, "Love yourself!" which has led to her popularity and the success of her company, Hay House. Hay leads popular gatherings in Los Angeles, often attended by individuals with AIDS, offering a message of acceptance, forgiveness, and self-empowerment.

The article recounts Hay's difficult childhood, including abuse and rape, and her subsequent struggles with self-esteem. It details her journey through modeling, marriage, and eventual diagnosis with cancer. Hay attributes her recovery to a combination of therapy, diet, visualization, and addressing deep-seated anger and self-hatred. Her work has expanded to include books, workshops, and support for the AIDS community.

Hay's philosophy emphasizes personal responsibility for one's life and experiences, suggesting that negative thoughts and beliefs create negative realities. She believes that true self-love leads to a desire to help others and that universal abundance is available to all. The article highlights her book "You Can Heal Your Life" and her work with AIDS patients, noting the positive impact she has had on many lives.

Healing with Sven-Bertil Andersson

The issue also features an article on Sven-Bertil Andersson, a healer who aims to spread knowledge about healing and train healers in Sweden. Andersson discovered his healing abilities unexpectedly and was encouraged by a female healer in Gothenburg. He learned the basics of healing and began reading books on the subject.

Andersson teaches that everyone possesses healing potential, which can be developed. He emphasizes that a healer is not a miracle worker but a facilitator of the body's natural healing capacity. He describes two methods of healing: distance healing, where the healer focuses on the recipient regardless of distance, and close-contact healing, performed in person.

He explains that healing energy is channeled from the universe, not depleted from the healer. Andersson also touches upon scientific perspectives, mentioning Professor Björn Nordenström's research on electrical activity in the body and its relation to healing. The article notes the skepticism from the medical establishment towards healing but points to its acceptance in some English hospitals.

Other Content

The magazine also includes advertisements for various books, courses, and services related to spirituality, astrology, and self-help, such as 'Teosofi,' 'Bio-Rytm,' and horoscopes. A brief mention is made of Dalai Lama and a book about him, highlighting his role as a figure of peace and compassion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around the paranormal, personal transformation, and alternative approaches to well-being. The magazine appears to present a range of perspectives, from the sensational claims of UFO encounters to the more grounded philosophies of self-help and spiritual healing. While it reports on controversial topics like alien abductions, it also includes critical analysis and explores psychological explanations. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse viewpoints and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also promoting concepts of personal growth and spiritual development.

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1989, features a prominent cover story on the Dalai Lama's visit to Sweden, with the headline "Dalai Lama i Sverige drog fulla hus – med sunt förnuft och värme" (Dalai Lama in Sweden drew full houses – with common sense and warmth). The issue also includes extensive articles on personal development, therapy, and a critical examination of spiritual figures.

Dalai Lama's Visit to Sweden

The main article details the Dalai Lama's impactful visit to Sweden, where his teachings on common sense and warmth resonated with many. His simple yet profound statements, such as "Be grateful for your enemies, for they can teach you patience and unconditional love better than your friends," left a lasting impression. The article describes the Dalai Lama's humility, his insistence on being a "common man" and a "monk who wants to serve others," and his emphasis on inner peace as the foundation for world peace. Despite initial political questions from journalists, he gracefully deflected them, focusing on his core message. The report notes the emotional impact on attendees, with some crying with joy and others reflecting on his words long after his appearances at events like the Stupa consecration in Fellingsbro, a press conference at SIPRI, a public lecture at Konserthuset, and a gathering for peace at Storkyrkan.

One young woman interviewed after an event in Fellingsbro described feeling "Lighter. Happier. Calmer." and expressed gratitude for having seen him, even though the practicalities of the day were challenging.

The Dalai Lama's philosophy emphasizes that our well-being is determined by our own minds, not external circumstances. He advocates for cultivating a calm and stable mind, not acting out anger, and understanding that our true enemies are within ourselves. He also highlighted the importance of human love and compassion, arguing that mutual dependence necessitates helping others. He explained that anger, while sometimes perceived as a source of courage, often leads to regrettable actions and that it is better to leave a situation if anger becomes overwhelming. He shared his own experience of having a temper in his youth and learning to control it.

The article concludes with a reflection from attendees leaving a lecture at Konserthuset, noting that while the teachings might seem obvious, the significant difference lies in the speaker embodying his message and living as he teaches.

Wäxthuset Kaprifol: A Greenhouse for People

Another significant section profiles Wäxthuset Kaprifol in Bohuslän, Sweden, an organization dedicated to personal development. The center is described as a unique place where individuals undergo profound changes, addressing inner conflicts with the help of skilled therapists and facilitators. Gunnel Derning, the driving force behind Kaprifol, is credited with creating a warm, open, and tolerant atmosphere that allows people to discover and process previously unacknowledged aspects of themselves, leading to spiritual health. A former participant, working in the healthcare sector, praised the center for its ability to bring about deep attitudinal changes.

The article highlights Gunnel Derning's lifelong calling to help people "come home" to themselves. She recounts childhood games of caretaking and an early interest in creating a health center. Her own experiences, including a profound near-death experience, have shaped her approach. Wäxthuset Kaprifol offers a variety of courses, including liberating breathing, gestalt therapy, art therapy, Feldenkrais method, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and more.

Gunnel Derning emphasizes that while personal development courses often focus on self-discovery, the ultimate goal is to connect with one's inner self and find joy. She contrasts her approach with other centers by focusing on Swedish therapists rather than expensive international names. The article also includes a poem by Gunnel Derning titled "Till min älskade midsommar 88" (To my beloved Midsummer 88), which speaks of love, connection, and cosmic unity.

A calendar of courses and lectures at Wäxthuset Kaprifol for 1989 is provided, featuring a range of therapeutic and spiritual practices led by various practitioners.

Lars Lagerstedt: A Therapist Who Knows How to Push the Right Buttons

Lars Lagerstedt, a therapist and course leader, is highly regarded, particularly by Gunnel Derning and her clients at Wäxthuset Kaprifol. The article describes him as a tall, gentle man in his 40s, who possesses a unique ability to ask simple questions that help participants uncover their deepest issues and "hooks." Lagerstedt's approach draws from gestalt therapy but is primarily guided by his intuition and personal insight.

He works with companies on leadership and personal development, as well as conducting numerous private courses. His courses aim to help participants connect with their "spiritual self" or "love." A summary of one of his courses at Wäxthuset Kaprifol is detailed, where participants explore their "inner child" and learn to address past traumas and unmet needs. Techniques used include shaking to music, ho-meditation, free dance, screaming, and guided meditation. Lagerstedt also employs exercises like drawing self-portraits and portraits of disliked individuals to help participants confront their own shadow selves.

The article recounts an exercise where a participant, "Per," is guided to understand his headache as a manifestation of an unmet need for attention and love, ultimately resolving his headache by acknowledging and addressing this need in relation to his son.

A Critical Portrait of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh

In a lengthy and critical analysis, Ronald O Clarke examines Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, labeling him a "narcissistic guru." The article draws heavily on biographical accounts and Rajneesh's own writings to present a case for his narcissistic personality disorder. Clarke highlights Rajneesh's lack of empathy, his tendency to provoke conflict, and his contempt for efforts to alleviate poverty. His claims of all-encompassing love are contrasted with his apparent lack of genuine interpersonal bonds, attributed to a traumatic childhood experience of his grandfather's death.

The article details Rajneesh's obsession with his appearance and toilet habits, citing photographs and anecdotes. It also delves into his "evasions and "lies," providing numerous examples from his childhood and college years where he allegedly deceived others to achieve his goals. These include faking illness to skip school, forging attendance records, and manipulating situations to gain admission to colleges or avoid military service. Rajneesh's own words are quoted, revealing a philosophy where "truth is what works," regardless of whether it is a lie or not.

Clarke argues that Rajneesh's "enlightenment" experience at age 21 was not a dissolution of ego but rather the formation of a grandiose self-deception system to cope with a narcissistic crisis. The article concludes that Rajneesh's own narcissistic and antisocial behavior was the primary obstacle to the success of his collective experiment in Oregon, leading to its eventual failure. It suggests that his tendency to rationalize failures and his arrogance stem from a lack of concern for others' opinions.

Discussions on Philosophical Concepts

This issue also includes a section by Gunnar Ståldal reviewing articles on philosophy and worldviews from Svensk Uppslagsbok (Swedish Encyclopedia). Ståldal discusses concepts such as:

• Atheism: Defined as the denial of God's existence or any belief in God.
• Agnosticism: The philosophical view that the ultimate nature of reality, God, or the absolute is unknowable.
• Deism: The belief in a creator God who set the universe in motion but does not intervene in its affairs.
• Naturalism: A worldview that equates the real with nature, explaining all phenomena through natural laws and processes.
• Materialism: The belief that all reality is fundamentally material and that all events occur through mechanical necessity.
• Mechanism: The philosophical view that all phenomena can be explained by mechanical causes and effects.
• Rationalism: The belief that reason is the primary source of knowledge.
• Skepticism: An attitude of doubt towards claims that lack sufficient evidence.

Ståldal offers his own interpretations and additions to the encyclopedia's definitions, often contrasting them with common usage or providing historical context. He also touches upon the debate between mechanism and teleology (purpose) in science and philosophy.

Poetry and Other Contributions

The magazine also features a section of poetry, with contributions titled "LJUSBRO" (Light Bridge), "TRYGG ÄNDÅ" (Still Safe), "OM TRON" (About Faith), "FALLET" (The Fall), and "Växthuset Kaprifol" by Ann-Caroline Manhof, Stanley Javåsen, and Eva Jagrell. There is also a notice for Babaji's Kriya Yoga classes and information about Ivan Troëng's Magnet Therapy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around spirituality, personal growth, and critical analysis of spiritual movements and figures. The magazine appears to promote a balanced approach, valuing inner peace, compassion, and self-awareness, while also critically examining potentially harmful ideologies or behaviors, as seen in the articles on Rajneesh and the discussion of New Age beliefs. The editorial stance seems to favor a blend of Eastern spiritual insights with Western psychological understanding, encouraging critical thinking and personal responsibility. There is a clear emphasis on practical application of these principles in daily life, as exemplified by the profiles of Wäxthuset Kaprifol and Lars Lagerstedt's therapeutic work.

This issue of Sökaren, identified as Nr 1, 1989, is an independent journal for life philosophy, edited and published by Sven Magnusson. The cover prominently features the headline "Statsbidraget" (State Subsidy), indicating a significant financial challenge for the publication.

Financial Struggles and Editorial Stance

The lead article details the reduction of the state subsidy to Sökaren by half, following a decision by Statens kulturråd (the Swedish National Council for Cultural Affairs). The magazine received support from media figures and private letters, including a positive article in Svenska Dagbladet by Göran Bengtson. Despite an appeal for renewed funding, the application was rejected. The editorial board expresses a different cultural perspective from the council, attributing the rejection to the magazine's innovative approach. Consequently, Sökaren plans to sustain its publication without state funding, relying on its own economic strategy.

Articles and Themes

Humanism and Skepticism

An article explores the concept of humanism, referencing its historical roots in the Renaissance and its modern interpretation as a worldview emphasizing reason, dignity, and the pursuit of happiness. It contrasts this with skepticism, defining it as a stance of doubt rather than outright denial, and highlighting its role in the development of natural sciences. The article also touches upon anti-intellectualism and its manifestations in contemporary publications.

Conflict: Doctors and Natural Healers in Denmark

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a conflict in Denmark between licensed doctors and natural healers. The Danish Medical Association surveyed 500 doctors, with two-thirds opposing alternative medicine. They reported cases where patients' health suffered due to delayed medical treatment after consulting natural healers, with some fatalities. Natural healers, represented by their chairman Tommy Aagaard Petersen, counter-argue that doctors' treatments are often harmful, citing numerous deaths and injuries caused by medications and surgeries. They demand documentation for the effectiveness of alternative treatments, while natural healers claim their methods are generally harmless.

A "New Age" History of Norway?

K. Stenødegård writes a critical piece titled "En norgeshistorie – i New Age-stil?" (A History of Norway – in New Age Style?). He addresses an article by editor Sven Magnusson, accusing him of misrepresenting his views and engaging in a form of "pseudoskeptical naivety." Stenødegård defends his critique of "alternative" or "holistic" medicine, emphasizing the need for empirical data and scientific rigor. He criticizes the reliance on anecdotal evidence and unsubstantiated claims within the New Age movement and points to the controversy surrounding homeopathy as an example of pseudoscientific claims being debunked.

Book Reviews

The issue features an extensive "Bokrevy" (Book Review) section, covering a wide array of titles:

• "Tänk hälsosamt!" by Nils-Olof Jacobson is praised as a practical and inspiring guide to personal development, focusing on mental visualization and positive thinking.
• "Makt som hobby" by Tönis Tönisson is reviewed critically for its focus on manipulation and power over others, contrasting with more constructive approaches to self-improvement.
• "Våga vara dig själv" by Alan L. McGinnis and "Öka ditt självförtroende" by Gael Lindenfield offer guidance on self-confidence and assertiveness.
• "Love signs" by Linda Goodman is reviewed for its comprehensive approach to astrological love compatibility.
• "Eckehart. Predikningar" presents medieval mysticism.
• "Vandring till sanningen" by Wilfrid Stinissen offers reflections on truth, relationships, and spirituality.
• "Sedna eller Kärleken till livet" by Hans Peter Duerr analyzes the influence of ideologies and religions on human cultures.
• "Konfucius lilla röda" by Confucius is presented as a guide to personal responsibility and wisdom.
• "Vem är vem i mytologin" by Michael Senior is a mythological encyclopedia.
• "Tankar om buddismen" by Anagarika Govinda explores Buddhist philosophy for a Western audience.
• "Romantikens filosofi" by Svante Nordin is a detailed history of Swedish idealism.
• "Att leva ett modigt liv" by Jean-Louis Servan-Schreiber discusses courage in modern life.
• "Minsta motståndets väg" by Robert Fritz offers insights into creative processes.
• "Inspirationens ögonblick" by Willis W. Harman and Howard Rheingold delves into consciousness research and creativity.
• "Skall etiken styra forskningen?" edited by Jarl Hemberg et al., examines ethical issues in scientific research.
• "Den makrobiotiska vägen" by Michio Kushi and Stephen Blauer presents a guide to macrobiotic living.
• "Anne-Charlottes gröna frestelser" by Anne-Charlotte Nilsson offers lacto-vegetarian recipes.
• "Trollmakt" by Dénis Lindbohm recounts encounters with mythical beings.
• "Kärngårdar" by Anna Horn proposes a network of self-sufficient farms for societal resilience.
• "De skuldlösa mördarna" by Björn Kurtén discusses evolutionary biology.
• "Vitlök. En naturlig väg till hälsa" by John Blackwood and Stephen Fulder explores the health benefits of garlic.
• "Fit for life-hälsoboken" by Harvey and Marilyn Diamond promotes a holistic health lifestyle.

Other Content

• An obituary for Johan Börtz, a pioneer in the animal rights movement.
• A letter from Göran Ahlstrand suggesting the formation of interfaith discussion groups.
• A note about a wedding announcement for Sven Magnusson and Anitha Dahlberg.
• A product advertisement for "Mystery House" offering literature on tarot, pendulums, and numerology.
• A poem titled "Jag är vindarnas tummelplats" by Eileen Caddy.
• A brief mention of a UFO sighting near Levelland, Texas, in 1952, described as a large, silver, disk-shaped object that hovered silently and moved fast.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sökaren reflects a continued commitment to exploring alternative perspectives on life, health, and spirituality, often in contrast to mainstream scientific and societal views. The magazine champions critical thinking and the examination of unconventional ideas, as evidenced by its reviews of books on humanism, skepticism, and alternative medicine. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to question established norms and explore diverse philosophies. The financial challenges faced by the publication suggest a dedication to maintaining its independent voice despite external pressures. The inclusion of debates, such as the one between doctors and natural healers, and critical analyses of New Age phenomena, underscores the magazine's role as a platform for diverse and sometimes controversial discussions.