Sokaren - 1989 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 2
Volume: 26
Date: 1989

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on culture and values in a new era, features a prominent cover story on the Right Livelihood Award and delves into various spiritual, philosophical, and environmental themes. The magazine presents itself as a platform for exploring alternative perspectives on life, consciousness, and societal issues.

Right Livelihood Award 1988

The cover story and accompanying articles highlight the recipients of the 1988 Right Livelihood Award, often referred to as the 'alternative Nobel Prize'. The award, founded by Jakob von Yxkull, honors individuals and organizations addressing significant global problems. The 1988 recipients shared a prize of $100,000:

• Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) / Jordens Vänner: Received the award for their "exemplary campaign to save the tropical forests of Sarawak from destruction." The organization, led by S. Mohamed Idris and Harrison Ngau, has been actively involved in protecting the rainforests from logging and supporting the indigenous population.
• José Lutzenberger: An agronomist and engineer from Brazil, recognized for his extensive work in promoting organic farming and reducing the use of agricultural chemicals, significantly decreasing their use in his home country. He is considered a father of the Brazilian environmental movement.
• Inge Kemp Genefke: A Danish doctor who founded the International Rehabilitation and Research Center for Torture Victims (RCT) in 1982. The center rehabilitates torture survivors and their families, trains healthcare professionals, and conducts research on torture.
• John Turner: An English architect who has dedicated his life to researching and promoting ways for people, especially in developing countries, to plan and build their own housing, emphasizing self-help and community involvement.

The award ceremony took place on December 9th, the day before the Nobel Prize ceremonies.

Culture and Values in a New Era: A Newspaper within a Newspaper

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a section titled "Kultur och livsvärden i en ny tid" (Culture and Values in a New Era), presented as a 'newspaper within a newspaper'. This section explores various facets of contemporary thought and spirituality.

The 'New Age' Movement: Critiques and Perspectives

One major theme is the New Age movement. The magazine presents a critical analysis of an article from the Norwegian journal 'Humanist', which strongly criticizes New Age, linking it to Satanism, racism, and irrationality. The article in Sökaren argues that 'Humanist' employs selective criticism and misrepresents the movement by focusing on fringe elements and figures like Aleister Crowley and George Adamski, while ignoring the positive aspects of New Age.

The Sökaren article counters that New Age, in its positive sense, encompasses love, optimism, holistic thinking, non-violence, personal development, and ecological awareness. It contrasts this with the negative portrayal that focuses on 'flight from reason', emotional thinking, quackery, and superstition.

Key figures associated with New Age, such as David Spangler and Sir George Trevelyan, are discussed, with the magazine defending their contributions while acknowledging some of their more unconventional statements.

Intuition vs. Rationalism

Another article, "Intuition: A Natural Human Ability," explores the role of intuition in human achievement, citing figures like Jonas Salk and Albert Einstein who valued intuition highly. The article defines intuition as the ability to know directly without rational thought, suggesting it complements rational thinking rather than opposing it. It argues that while Western society emphasizes rationalism, intuition is an underdeveloped but crucial human faculty.

The magazine also touches upon the concept of "mysticism" in an article titled "Mystik och rationalism" (Mysticism and Rationalism). It contrasts the rationalist approach, which relies on reason and empirical evidence, with the mystic's reliance on intuition, inner vision, and direct experience of a higher reality. The article presents F.C. Happold's view that mystical consciousness is an expansion of normal consciousness, leading to a deeper understanding of the universe and a sense of unity with the divine.

Guidance for a Perplexed World

An article on E.F. Schumacher's book "A Guide for the Perplexed" (translated as "Vägledning för vilseförda") positions it as a critique of modern scientific paradigms that have led to a sense of confusion and meaninglessness. Schumacher's work is described as a radical protest advocating for a broader understanding of existence, incorporating four "existential levels" (mineral, plant, animal, human) and four "fields of knowledge" (inner self, inner world, self from outside, outer world). The article emphasizes the importance of "living churches" and a holistic worldview.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on "Optimal Hälsa i Ditt Liv" (Optimal Health in Your Life), promoting courses on living foods. Advertisements feature spiritual and self-development organizations like Aruna, Skandinavisk Yoga och Meditationsskola, and Ramsbergsgården, as well as publications such as "Utan Gräns" magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a holistic worldview, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of spiritual and personal development. It critiques the limitations of purely rationalistic and materialistic perspectives, advocating for the integration of intuition, mysticism, and ecological consciousness. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into alternative spiritualities and philosophies, encouraging readers to question conventional paradigms and seek deeper meaning in life. There is a clear appreciation for movements and ideas that challenge established norms and promote a more integrated understanding of humanity and the universe.

This issue of 'Delfi' magazine, dated October 1988, focuses on the convergence of New Age publishers under the theme of 'Earth as a living planet and humanity as brothers and sisters.' The cover headline encapsulates this mission, and the magazine offers a variety of articles exploring spiritual development, positive news, and philosophical insights.

Delfi Book Club and Publisher Collaborations

The magazine announces the formation of the book club 'Delfi' by five Swedish publishers: Ad Astra, EDISTA, Livskraft, Resonans, and Via Förlag. Their collective aim is to offer high-quality books that promote spiritual and personal development, contributing to peace and harmony in society. Delfi will issue a newsletter featuring 'book of the month' selections and other content. Membership, costing 50 SEK, includes a year's subscription to the newsletter.

Positive News and Environmental Action

An article titled 'Goda Nyheter' (Good News) highlights the growing interest in positive news and the formation of networks to share it. It references Robert Jungk's sentiment of being a 'collector of positive news.' A significant piece of positive news reported is the Brazilian government's decision to halt the extensive deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, a plan presented by President José Sarey to stop uncontrolled logging and cattle ranching. This initiative, named 'Vår natur' (Our Nature), aims to create nationwide awareness about humanity's shared journey on Earth and to curb the environmental damage contributing to the greenhouse effect.

Travel and International Connection

'Resa i nytänkaranda i glasnosts tid' (A Journey in New Thinking in the Era of Glasnost) recounts a trip to Leningrad organized by the association Nytänkarna. The journey aimed to foster connections with people in the East who wished to visit Sweden, promoting peace through mutual understanding and breaking down fears and prejudices. The author, Kate Hackzell, describes the group's positive experiences, including discussions with youth about future work opportunities, cultural exchanges with artists, and insights into alternative medicine and environmental issues. The trip fostered a sense of unity and a desire to continue building networks and collaborations, particularly concerning environmental concerns.

Philosophical and Spiritual Exploration

'Goda Tankar' (Good Thoughts) emphasizes the power of positive thinking in fostering peace and reducing conflict. It suggests that the 1990s could be a turning point towards harmony if more people cultivate inner peace and a desire for global well-being.

An excerpt from Karlfried Graf von Dürkheim's 'The Way of Transformation' discusses the importance of inner experience and stillness to connect with the Divine. It contrasts the world's demands for knowledge and action with the Divine's call for inner growth and risk-taking.

Publisher Spotlights

The magazine introduces the five founding publishers of Delfi:

• Ad Astra: A new publisher focusing on spiritual content that clarifies human existence and higher realities.
• EDISTA: Originally a mail-order bookstore, now a publisher of foreign literature in Swedish translation, aiming to deepen self-understanding and overcome limitations.
• Livskraft: Founded to publish books that demonstrate the creative power of thought, covering topics from practical psychology to spiritual development.
• Resonans: Established in 1985, it publishes and sells New Age and alternative literature, also handling sales for the Stjärnsund foundation and acting as the Nordic agent for 'A Course in Miracles.'
• Via Förlag: An independent publisher focusing on spirituality from East and West, translating contemporary spiritual teachers and publishing works on anthropology, psychology, and literature.

Book Reviews and Recommendations

Several books are reviewed and recommended:

• 'Att öppna inre dörrar' (Opening Inner Doors) by Eileen Caddy: Described as a spiritual devotional book offering daily guidance for personal growth.
• 'Handledning i personlig utveckling' (Guidance in Personal Development) by Peggy and Tolly Burkan: A source of inspiration for personal growth and contributing to solutions for global crises.
• 'Farväl till skuld' (Farewell to Guilt) by Gerald Jampolsky: Offers guidance on releasing guilt through forgiveness.
• 'Hur du kan få ditt liv att fungera' (How to Make Your Life Work) by Ken Keys Jr: A concise guide to living a happier life.
• 'Att vara fri' (To Be Free) by J. Krishnamurti: Explores freedom from authorities, worries, and fears through self-awareness and meditation.
• 'Kristallboken' (The Crystal Book) by Uma Silbey: A guide to using crystals for personal development.
• 'Ljus och färg som helande kraft' (Light and Color as Healing Power) by Annika Langlé: Explains how to use light and color for healing.
• 'Min kärleksfulla kropp' (My Loving Body) by Louise L. Hay: Encourages self-love through affirmations.
• 'Speglingar i ljuset' (Reflections in Light) by Shakti Gawain: A diary with affirmations for the year.

Sant Mat and Spiritual Masters

Leif Eriksson contributes several articles on Sant Mat, a spiritual tradition emphasizing the necessity of a Master for spiritual progress. He explains the concept of the Master's role in guiding disciples through inner planes and the experience of God's Light and Music. The articles discuss how to identify a true Master, the nature of the creative force (Word/Sound/Light), and the practice of Surat Shabd Yoga as a simple meditation technique accessible to all. It is highlighted that Sant Darshan Singh is considered a leading authority in Surat Shabd Yoga, having founded the Sawan Kirpal Ruhani Mission.

Personal Development and Inner Work

Articles touch upon personal development, including the concept of 'Gud, makt och pengar' (God, Power, and Money) which critically examines religion. The 'Wäxthuset' center on Väddö offers courses in 'Frigörande Andning' (Liberating Breathing) and other self-development workshops.

Book Reviews (Continued)

Further book reviews cover topics such as Swedenborg's dream interpretations, esoteric healing, the concept of a 'harmonious body,' and the philosophy of 'living food.' The book 'UFO i Danmark' by Willy Wegner is reviewed, noting its objective approach to the UFO phenomenon in Denmark.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes themes of spiritual growth, self-awareness, peace, and a positive outlook on life. There is a strong emphasis on the New Age philosophy, the importance of inner work, and the interconnectedness of humanity and the planet. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging exploration of various spiritual and philosophical paths while maintaining a critical yet constructive approach to societal issues and belief systems. The publication actively supports alternative publishers and authors in these fields.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 2, 1989
Date: February 1989
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Cover Headline: Respekt för andras uppfattning (Respect for others' opinions)

Editorial Content

Respekt för andras uppfattning (Respect for others' opinions)

This lead article argues for the importance of respecting differing viewpoints. The author notes that most people believe their own opinions are correct, a natural inclination that can lead to looking down on those with different perspectives. The author advocates for an agnostic approach and encourages speculation about life's mysteries without claiming absolute knowledge. It is suggested that 'the heart has its reasons that reason knows not of,' implying that intuition and emotional understanding can hold a wisdom that logic may not grasp. Different life experiences and backgrounds shape individuals' conclusions, and it is ultimately up to the divine to know who is right. The article emphasizes that different ways of thinking can be valid for different people.

Miljöpartiets tidning Alternativet (The Environmental Party's newspaper Alternativet)

This section presents excerpts from the Swedish Environmental Party's newspaper, Alternativet, highlighting recipients of the 1988 Right Livelihood Award.

• Jordens vänner (Friends of the Earth, Malaysia): This organization received the award for its message that the problem is not poverty but Western consumerism, and that an immediate halt to consumption is necessary to save rainforests and secure a future for children.
• Inge Kemp Genefke: A Danish doctor who received the award for her work with torture victims. The article notes that many refugees are turned away at Swedish borders, some of whom have been tortured, which is a violation of UN statutes against sending tortured individuals back to their persecutors.
• John Turner: A British architect who founded the organization AHAS. He received the award for his work in promoting knowledge about how grassroots communities can plan and manage their own housing areas, leading to the best results.

Romantiker gillar jag att bli kallad. Utopist också. (I like to be called a romantic. A utopian too.)

This section features a quote from Manfred Max-Neef, a recipient of the Right Livelihood Award in 1983. He defends his 'romantic' and 'utopian' approach, stating that history is not made by armchair dwellers. He questions the idea that it is unrealistic to live alongside the world's most unfortunate people and share their experiences to find solutions, asserting that he doesn't understand what realism is.

Other Articles and Sections:

• SM: Idag (Today): A brief mention of the current date.
• SM: Human-etiker angriper New Age (Human Ethicists Attack New Age): An article discussing critiques of the New Age movement.
• SM: Mystik och rationalism (Mysticism and Rationalism): An exploration of the relationship between mystical experiences and rational thought.
• SM: Intuition, en naturlig mänsklig förmåga (Intuition, a Natural Human Ability): An article focusing on the nature and significance of intuition.
• Erland Lagerroth: Vägledning för vår tid (Guidance for Our Time): A piece offering guidance for contemporary life.
• Delfi: A brief mention, possibly a section or article title.
• Leif Eriksson: Sant Darshan Singh: An article about Sant Darshan Singh.
• Gunnar Aronsson: Mästaren (novell) (The Master (short story)): A short story by Gunnar Aronsson.
• Kulturrådet och Sökaren (The Cultural Council and Sökaren): A mention of the relationship between the magazine and a cultural council.

Book Reviews

• Bokrecensioner (Book Reviews): A section dedicated to book reviews.
• Eileen Caddy: Footprints on the path: A review of Eileen Caddy's book.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, alternative worldviews, social justice, environmentalism, and personal development. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, advocating for critical thinking, respect for diverse opinions, and a focus on humanitarian and ecological issues. There is a clear interest in movements and individuals challenging conventional norms and seeking deeper meaning or practical solutions to societal problems.