Sokaren - 1989 No 06

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 6
Volume: 26
Date: 1989
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden

This issue of Sökaren magazine offers a diverse range of topics, from Eastern philosophies and psychological theories to paranormal phenomena and critical examinations of belief systems. The cover features a portrait of Viktor E. Frankl, a prominent psychiatrist and thinker, with the headline "En tänkare i tiden" (A thinker of the times), highlighting his visit to Sweden.

Zen - The Awakening of a Wave to Water

This section explores the principles of Zen Buddhism, describing it as a path to understanding the unity of all things through personal experience. It emphasizes the importance of meditation (zazen) to quiet the mind and achieve inner harmony. The article quotes Zen teacher Bodhin Kjolhede, who explains that Zen is a wisdom tradition without a God, focusing instead on achieving 'awakening' or 'enlightenment' by realizing the inherent perfection and wisdom within all beings. The piece also touches on the growing interest in Zen in the West and the practice of zazen.

A Thinker of the Times: Viktor E. Frankl Visits Sweden

This article reports on the visit of Viktor E. Frankl, an 84-year-old psychiatrist and thinker, to Sweden. Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, discusses his logotherapy, which posits that the primary human drive is the search for meaning. He asserts that meaning can be found in every situation and that love and meaningful work are essential for a fulfilling life. The article highlights his experiences in Nazi concentration camps as the basis for his famous book, "Man's Search for Meaning." Frankl's philosophy is contrasted with those of Freud and Adler, with Frankl emphasizing meaning as the central human motivation.

A Day in the Life: A Zen Retreat

Written by Lena Mattisson, this personal account details a seven-day Zen retreat. The author describes the intense daily schedule of meditation (zazen), kinhin (walking meditation), and dokusan (private interviews with the teacher). The narrative captures the challenges of confronting one's own thoughts and emotions, the physical discomfort of prolonged sitting, and the eventual breakthroughs in self-awareness and inner peace experienced during the retreat. The author reflects on the role of resistance and acceptance in the practice.

Imago State: A Paranormal Phenomenon

This article, translated from Russian by Ulf Sveds and adapted by SM, investigates the paranormal abilities of Valerij Avdejev. Avdejev demonstrates phenomena such as telekinesis, influencing a compass needle with his mind. The report describes experiments where participants entered an 'imago' state, characterized by a shift from logical to image-based thinking, enabling them to perform extraordinary feats like extreme flexibility and age regression. The article explores the potential of this state for creativity and personal transformation, suggesting it could be a key to solving humanity's problems.

A Skeptical UFO Researcher: Anders Liljegren

Håkan Blomqvist interviews Anders Liljegren, a UFO researcher who has spent twenty years investigating UFO phenomena. Liljegren discusses his work with the Archive for UFO Research (AFU) and his critical approach to UFO cases. He highlights the debunking of the famous 'Domstensfallet' case, which he concludes was a hoax perpetrated by the individuals involved for financial gain and attention. Liljegren emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and a critical mindset in UFO research, suggesting that many cases can be explained by natural phenomena or psychological factors.

Antroposophy: A Critical Examination

This section provides a critical look at Antroposophy, founded by Rudolf Steiner. The article traces Steiner's background, his philosophical influences (including Fichte and Goethe), and his involvement with the Theosophical Society before founding his own movement. It questions Antroposophy's claim to be a 'path of knowledge,' arguing that it relies on Steiner's authority rather than verifiable scientific principles. The author criticizes the lack of clear content and the verbose nature of Steiner's writings, suggesting that Antroposophy is a form of primitive superstition rather than a valid system of knowledge.

Debates and Discussions

Several shorter pieces contribute to the magazine's diverse content:

• "Don't Spit on the School!": A letter from a teacher defending the role of schools in ethical education, arguing against the idea that schools are failing to impart values. The author details efforts in classrooms to teach empathy, understanding, and respect, and criticizes the notion that subjects like biology should be cut.
• "Remember Past Lives!": An advertisement for a service offering insights into past lives, promising new perspectives and understanding of relationships.
• "Altruistic Persons": A summary of a book by Samuel and Pearl Oliner that examines the motivations of individuals who risked their lives to save others during Nazi-occupied Europe, highlighting the importance of empathy and moral courage.
• "Real UFOs": An article discussing the skeptical viewpoint that most UFO sightings can be explained, contrasted with the view that well-investigated cases remain genuinely unexplained.
• Advertisements: Several advertisements for books on crystals, healing, and self-help, as well as for a course center and publishers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine presents a broad spectrum of interests, reflecting a curiosity about the human mind, consciousness, and the unexplained. There is a clear engagement with both Eastern spiritual practices (Zen) and Western psychological and philosophical thought (Viktor Frankl, Antroposophy). The issue also demonstrates a critical approach to paranormal claims, particularly in the UFO research section, advocating for rigorous investigation and skepticism. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to explore diverse perspectives while maintaining a discerning and critical outlook. The inclusion of personal accounts, philosophical discussions, and investigative journalism suggests an aim to inform and provoke thought on complex and often controversial subjects.

This issue of *Sökaren* (1990, nr 5) critically examines the teachings and influence of Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy. The cover headline, "Steiner demonized the emotional life," sets the tone for a deep dive into what the author perceives as the negative aspects of Steiner's philosophy. The magazine also touches upon UFO phenomena, the philosophy of Socrates, and personal spiritual journeys.

Anthroposophy Under Scrutiny

The article begins by dissecting Steiner's epistemology, arguing that his reliance on visions and auditions as sources of knowledge is a fundamental error, merely reflecting the subconscious. It posits that such experiences are akin to dreams and not reliable pathways to truth. The author criticizes the idea of an 'inner voice' providing knowledge, contrasting it with empirical science and highlighting the subjective nature of mystical experiences.

Anthroposophy is described as a magical worldview, a form of Gnosticism where the material world is seen as something to escape. Steiner's emphasis on freeing oneself from the earthly realm is presented as a flight from reality, leading to an authoritarian worldview incompatible with democracy. The author dismisses Steiner's claim that pure thinking can provide insights into the world as a dangerous illusion.

Demonization of Emotions and Sexuality

A significant portion of the critique focuses on Steiner's views on emotions and sexuality. The article labels Anthroposophy's ideal as asceticism, a method of scaring people away from their own feelings. Steiner's writings are quoted, suggesting that individuals who cannot control their desires are susceptible to demonic possession. The suppression of emotions, particularly grief and anger, is highlighted as psychologically unsound and potentially leading to neurosis. Steiner's opposition to sex education is explained by his belief that it leads to "demons of sexuality" and that eroticism is an expression of materialistic thinking. The text also mentions Steiner's view that the Atlantean civilization sank due to sexual transgressions.

Demonology and "Black Magicians"

The article delves into Anthroposophy's demonology, detailing Steiner's categorization of evil beings into Luciferic, Ahrimanic, and Asuric. Luciferic beings are described as rebellious spirits, while Ahrimanic beings promote atheistic and materialistic views, aiming to extinguish the divine spark in humanity. Asuric beings are said to drag humans down into the sensual realm. The author notes that Steiner saw these influences in individuals like Woodrow Wilson and criticizes the idea that rejecting the divine makes one physically and psychologically ill.

Steiner's concept of the Antichrist, who he believed would be born in physical form to mislead the world, is also discussed. The text mentions speculation about the Antichrist's identity and Steiner's belief that Western secret societies would try to introduce this figure. The article suggests that Steiner's demonization of emotions and sexuality is a core tenet, leading to a joyless and fear-inducing philosophy.

Racism in Anthroposophy

Inherited from Theosophy, Anthroposophy's concept of human evolution through distinct root races is presented as inherently racist. The Aryan race is deemed the most developed, while colored races are seen as less evolved. Steiner's views on the 'spiritual' working in white skin and the 'atavistic forces' in darker skin are cited, along with the idea of a "stiffened etheric body" in Black people. The article points out that this racist ideology, if spread, poses a significant societal danger, contrasting it with Anthroposophy's self-proclaimed image as a humane alternative.

Waldorf Pedagogy

The article examines Waldorf pedagogy, a visible manifestation of Anthroposophy. It argues that parents often send their children to Waldorf schools unaware of the underlying magical worldview. The author criticizes the pedagogy for being built on religious belief and for its ascetic ideals, which can lead to psychological issues. Examples are given of strict rules against activities like playing football or drinking chocolate, and the use of horoscopes in teaching. The critique emphasizes that Waldorf education cannot be separated from Anthroposophy and its inherent biases.

Critiques and Personal Experiences

Several critics of Anthroposophy are mentioned, including Hjalmar Sundén, who viewed Steiner's clairvoyance as self-deception and his 'seeing' as reproductive of learned material. The article also includes a personal account from an individual who grew up in an Anthroposophical/Theosophical household. This individual describes the negative impact of Steiner's ascetic ideals, leading to a neurotic relationship with sexuality and a feeling of wasted years on 'life-hostile nonsense.' The author concludes that Anthroposophy is not a science but a belief system based on fantasy, posing psychological and social dangers.

Socrates: The Gadfly of Athens

The article on Socrates presents him as a unique and charismatic figure, known for his courage, moral integrity, and intellectual rigor. Despite his poverty and unconventional lifestyle, Socrates engaged in dialogues that aimed to expose ignorance and guide people towards self-knowledge and virtue. His trial and death are recounted, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his principles and the rule of law, even when facing execution.

Other Sections

The magazine also features a "Book Reviews" section, covering titles on witchcraft, UFOs, ancient cosmologies, and personal development. A "Footprints on the Path" section includes a spiritual quote from Eileen Caddy. There are also short articles on biorythms, the wisdom of gemstones, and the impact of the psyche on the immune system. A personal essay reflects on the author's spiritual journey and the concept of finding one's own path.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critique of esoteric and spiritual movements, particularly Anthroposophy, highlighting their perceived detachment from reality, psychological dangers, and potential for authoritarianism and racism. The magazine also explores philosophical and spiritual topics, including the teachings of Socrates, UFO phenomena, and personal spiritual growth. The editorial stance is clearly critical of Anthroposophy, presenting it as a flawed and potentially harmful belief system, while advocating for critical thinking, empirical evidence, and a grounded approach to life. The inclusion of personal testimonies and philosophical discussions suggests an aim to encourage readers to question established doctrines and seek their own understanding.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 6
Volume: NR
Date: 1989
Publisher: Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: 175 SEK for a full year (8 issues)

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1989, marks a return to its original format after the discontinuation of the 'New Age' supplement, which was perceived as less successful. The editorial, signed 'SM', explains that the decision was made due to a decline in subscriptions and the magazine's tight economic situation. The editor expresses a commitment to continuing the search for truth and meaning, acknowledging the subjective nature of truth.

Featured Articles and Content

Zen and Spirituality * "Zen – vågens uppvaknande till vatten" by Lena Mattisson and Niklas Törnlund explores Zen Buddhism, referencing Zen Master Bankei (1622-1693) and the concept of the circle as the universe captured in a brushstroke. * "Provokation" by Örjan Björkhem offers a provocative perspective. * "Månadens bibelcitat: Se jag sänder ut min ängel" by Barbro Johansson introduces a new column that will analyze Bible quotes in a fresh and engaging way. * "Sokrates – Odödlig visman" by Christer Nilsson pays tribute to the philosopher Socrates. * "Fundera ett ögonblick..." (Saxat section) by Gerald G. Jampolsky uses the metaphor of ocean waves to illustrate the interconnectedness of consciousness, arguing that individual consciousness cannot separate itself from the universal consciousness.

Psychology and Existentialism * "Viktor Frankl i Sverige talade om livets mening" by Åsa Freij discusses Viktor Frankl's impact in Sweden. Frankl, a survivor of concentration camps, is presented as a vital figure whose ideas on the meaning of life resonate with seekers. * "Imagotillståndet, ett paranormalt fenomen" delves into a paranormal phenomenon. * "Endast för hundarna kan vi spela Gud." by Emile Ajar is a philosophical reflection. * "En domsöndag i pastor Efraims liv. Helvetet finns ju inte! (Men hur är det med paradiset?)" by Barbro Johansson explores themes of judgment, hell, and paradise.

UFO Research and Skepticism * "Anders Liljegren – en skeptisk UFO-forskare" by Anders Liljegren emphasizes the importance of individuals with a factual interest studying reports of unidentified flying objects.

Social Commentary and Culture * "I Ryssland finns många intressanta människor..." notes the emergence of individuals in Russia who can now express themselves more freely due to Glasnost. * "Spotta inte på skolan!" by Charlotta Helgesson criticizes the lack of planned ethical education in schools, rather than the teachers themselves. * "Ockultismen som blev rumsren" by Håkan Blomqvist, a former anthroposophist, discusses the mainstreaming of occultism and distances himself from Steiner's teachings.

Poetry * "Dikter" by Kristina Bryngel. * "Dikt" by Eva Jagrell.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around the search for meaning, truth, and spiritual understanding. The magazine maintains a stance that encourages critical inquiry and factual investigation, particularly in areas like UFO research. There's a clear emphasis on philosophical and psychological exploration, with references to figures like Viktor Frankl and Socrates. The editorial's decision to revert to its original format suggests a prioritization of its core readership and traditional content over experimental supplements. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in depth, introspection, and unconventional perspectives on life, spirituality, and societal issues.