Sokaren - 1990 No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR1
Volume: 1990 ÅRGÅNG 27
Date: 1990
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: "En källa av livets vatten, kan delar av Sökarens innehåll vara en sådan, en livgivande dryck, vilken vederkvicker själen i dess trångmål?" – Teckning Charles Adkinson.

Regression till hypotetiska tidigare liv

This section features a debate on reincarnation and regression therapy. Jan Erik Sigdell, a reincarnation therapist based in Switzerland, responds to a provocation by Örjan Björkhem, arguing that Björkhem is prejudiced. Sigdell asserts that regression to a past life can be a radical help in solving personal problems, even if the existence of the past life cannot be verified. He outlines several hypotheses for explaining such experiences: reincarnation, cryptomnesia, ESP, and genetic inheritance. Sigdell dismisses genetic inheritance as a plausible explanation due to its limitations and the nature of the information recalled. He also critiques the idea of 'symbol drama' as a primary explanation, suggesting reincarnation is the simplest, though often emotionally difficult, explanation.

Sigdell highlights the positive effects of regression therapy, which he believes cannot be easily explained by cryptomnesia or ESP. He shares that his regression technique, developed by Bryan Jameison, sometimes uses 'inner helpers' to clarify whether an experience was a past life or a symbol drama. He points to the emotional intensity of recalled experiences and the synastry of horoscopes between the regression subject and the past life individual as evidence for reincarnation.

In contrast, Nils-Olof Jacobson, in an article titled "Fantasier, inte reinkarnationsminnen" (Fantasies, not reincarnation memories), presents cases where the existence of the 'previous incarnation' has been disproven, arguing this is crucial for evaluating regression claims. He cites research by Ian Stevenson and others, suggesting that most regression experiences are fantasies influenced by the hypnotist and suggestions. Jacobson details the case of Jane Evans, whose 'past life' stories were found to be heavily based on historical novels and readily available information, debunking claims of genuine past-life recall.

Jacobson also critiques the idea of 'inner images' in regression therapy, suggesting the brain generates these images during states of reduced sensory input, similar to dreams or meditation. He questions the validity of claims that children spontaneously recall past lives, citing cases where details were inaccurate or could be explained by other factors.

UFO-gåtan: Majestic-12-dokumenten

This part of the magazine focuses on the controversial Majestic-12 (MJ-12) documents. Sune Hjorth, a high school teacher in Sundsvall, presents the documents as "crushing evidence" that extraterrestrial civilizations are visiting Earth. He claims the documents reveal a top-secret operation, 'Operation Majestic 12,' established by President Truman in 1947 after the Roswell incident, to study crashed UFOs and alien bodies. Hjorth accuses powerful figures of deliberately misleading the public and researchers about UFOs.

The article details the alleged contents of the MJ-12 documents, including the names of its supposed members (admirals, scientists, and government officials) and the recovery of alien bodies and wreckage from a crash site near Roswell, New Mexico, in July 1947. The documents suggest the craft was likely an extraterrestrial reconnaissance vehicle, possibly from Mars or another solar system.

However, the magazine also presents a skeptical viewpoint from Anders Liljegren. Liljegren questions the authenticity of the MJ-12 documents, noting that they surfaced in 1987, not 1979 as claimed by Hjorth, and were distributed anonymously. He points out the inclusion of Donald H. Menzel, a known UFO skeptic, as a member of MJ-12, which he finds contradictory. Liljegren suggests the documents might be a deliberate disinformation campaign or an elaborate hoax, possibly intended to distract from the genuine mystery of the Roswell incident itself. He also highlights inconsistencies in the handling and presentation of the documents by different ufologists and researchers.

Vetenskapsman med en holistisk syn

This section profiles physicist David Bohm, who advocates for a holistic view of the universe, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things. Bohm argues that the current fragmented approach to science and life leads to problems like environmental destruction. He believes that understanding the world as an interconnected whole is essential for addressing these issues. Bohm contrasts the mechanical view of the universe with a more dynamic and holistic perspective, where parts derive their meaning from their context within the larger system.

Ett ljusmirakel

This article by Örjan Björkhem recounts the experiences of Helge Andersson, a seventy-five-year-old watchmaker, who claims to have witnessed unexplained phenomena involving self-lighting candles. Andersson describes hearing a voice instructing him to sit and listen, after which candles on his Advent wreath lit themselves. He also recounts instances where this 'inner voice' guided him to make sales or avoid financial trouble. The article notes that these events have been witnessed by others, including a priest, adding to the credibility of Andersson's claims, though the exact nature of the phenomenon remains unexplained.

Nytt om den fria energin

This section discusses the concept of 'free energy' and the Methernitha community in Switzerland. The community reportedly uses a machine called TESTATIKA to generate more energy than it consumes, making them self-sufficient. Physicist Stefan Marinov, who visited Methernitha, describes the community as a true Christian fellowship and praises TESTATIKA as the only machine in the world producing free energy. The article also mentions other individuals and companies developing similar technologies, such as Schumacher Magnet KG in Germany and Wilhelm Seibel in Switzerland.

Kan TM minska krig och brott?

This article explores the effects of Transcendental Meditation (TM) and the Maharishi Effect. It cites research published in the Journal of Conflict Resolution and the Journal of Mind and Behavior, suggesting that group TM meditation can reduce war intensity and crime rates in specific areas. The Maharishi Effect proposes that a small percentage of a population meditating together can positively influence the collective consciousness. While the TM movement claims significant results, the scientific establishment remains skeptical, with researchers often accepting the statistical findings but questioning the causal link to TM meditation.

Ditt ord är ditt trollspö

This piece focuses on the teachings of Florence Scovel Shinn, an American author and spiritual advisor from the early 20th century. Shinn's philosophy, detailed in books like "Your Word is Your Wand" and "The Game of Life and How to Play It," emphasizes the power of thought, faith, and affirmations to manifest desires. She taught that the subconscious mind acts as a powerful tool that can be programmed through positive affirmations and 'faith in action' (acting as if one's desires are already fulfilled). The article highlights Shinn's belief in spiritual laws, including the law of karma, the law of non-resistance, and the law of abundance, and her Christian-based approach to achieving success and well-being.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics at the intersection of spirituality, the paranormal, and alternative science. There's a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional scientific and materialistic worldviews, such as reincarnation, UFOs, and unexplained physical events. The editorial stance appears to be open to these possibilities, presenting evidence and arguments from proponents while also acknowledging and sometimes featuring skeptical viewpoints. The magazine seems to encourage critical thinking and personal exploration of these subjects, often drawing on historical accounts, personal testimonies, and research from various fields.

This issue of "Sökaren" (The Seeker), dated July 1988, delves into the controversial figure of Olle Jönsson, a Swedish individual who claimed to possess paranormal abilities. The magazine explores his alleged feats, the skepticism he faced, and the broader implications of such phenomena.

The Strange Olle Jönsson

Sune Stigsjöö, a close friend and former colleague of Jönsson, recounts his extensive experiences with him. Stigsjöö claims to have conducted thousands of experiments with Jönsson over three months in 1947, witnessing objects move through closed doors and pictures spin on their hooks. He details specific incidents, such as a hyacinth plant being moved to another room through a locked door, and a telepathic experiment where Jönsson accurately predicted a magician's written sequence. Stigsjöö expresses bitterness over the negative treatment Jönsson received from parts of the Swedish press and some scientists, who he felt unfairly accused Jönsson of fraud.

Stigsjöö recounts an incident in Varberg where Jönsson allegedly made Easter decorations fly out of a locked room, witnessed by journalist Olle Strandberg. Despite Strandberg's article, which Stigsjöö felt misrepresented the event by suggesting trickery, Stigsjöö maintains Jönsson's innocence.

He also describes an experiment where Jönsson, after being given a random 600-page German book, was able to accurately state the text on a specific line and page, suggesting either clairvoyance or precognition.

Stigsjöö reflects on the nature of reality, suggesting that what we perceive as natural laws are merely statistical probabilities and that reality might be fundamentally mental.

Skepticism and Accusations of Fraud

The magazine presents counterarguments from those who doubted Jönsson's abilities. Magician Erik Truxa is quoted as calling Jönsson a "big bluff" and claiming to have exposed him years prior. Truxa and his wife Gulli were known for their "mind-reading" act, which was attributed to a sophisticated code system.

Professor Olle Holmberg, in his book "Den osannolika verkligheten" (The Improbable Reality), is cited as suggesting that Jönsson, like other alleged psychics, might have been a skilled illusionist who used trickery. Holmberg's research is presented as indicating that Jönsson sometimes claimed to be "warming up" or creating trust" or that he was saving his concentration for more difficult feats.

Professor Torbern Laurent's Investigations

Professor Torbern Laurent's involvement with Jönsson is detailed, particularly his experiments at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm. Initially, Laurent conducted experiments with Jönsson in the late 1940s, which he described in the "Vecko-Journalen" in 1949. In these accounts, Laurent detailed successful experiments involving card guessing and dice throwing, where Jönsson's predictions were accurate. Laurent even expressed hope for the establishment of a professorship at Uppsala University to study Jönsson's phenomena.

However, twenty years later, Laurent's perspective shifted. In a 1972 article, he referred to Jönsson as a "skilled illusionist." The magazine highlights this apparent contradiction, with Stigsjöö questioning Laurent's change of heart. Laurent, in a later response, defended his position by stating that his initial observations were from a passive spectator's viewpoint, and that further systematic investigations led him to believe that suggestion and hypnosis played a significant role. He developed a "robot secretary" apparatus to eliminate the human "factor" in control, but even with this, he claimed no positive results were achieved, reinforcing his belief that the phenomena were illusions.

Laurent's "suggestion hypothesis" posits that Jönsson manipulated observers' perceptions, making them believe they saw phenomena that did not occur. Stigsjöö, however, argues that this hypothesis is difficult to reconcile with the consistent agreement among witnesses about the outcome of experiments, whether successful or not.

The Case of Jesus

An article titled "Vem var Jesus?" (Who was Jesus?) by Sven Magnusson addresses the historical Jesus and the theological interpretations surrounding him. Magnusson argues that while Jesus' existence is generally accepted by scholars, many aspects of his portrayal in Christian theology are later interpretations rather than direct accounts from the Gospels. He contends that the concept of Jesus as the "only begotten Son of God" and his divinity are theological constructs, not explicitly stated in the synoptic Gospels, though John's Gospel comes closer. The virgin birth and resurrection are also presented as theological additions rather than historical facts.

Magnusson asserts that the historical Jesus was likely a Jew who knew nothing of the Christian theology developed after his death. He suggests that the accounts of Jesus' life and teachings are often "congregation theology," meaning they reflect the beliefs and doctrines of the early Christian communities rather than precise historical records. The article concludes that much of what is attributed to Jesus is open to interpretation and that the historical Jesus remains elusive.

A Woman's Sacrifice: A Parable

A fictionalized allegorical story, "Kvinnan som bytte bort sin plats i himlen" (The Woman Who Traded Her Place in Heaven), explores themes of sacrifice, love, and redemption. The story tells of a virtuous woman who, upon her death, is granted entry into Heaven. However, she is deeply concerned for her wicked husband, who is destined for Hell. In an act of profound love and selflessness, she offers to trade her place in Heaven for his in Hell. She descends to Hell and endures its torments, but her purity and love render her immune to the suffering. The devils are unable to harm her, and she finds that her presence brings solace to the other damned souls. Ultimately, her husband, witnessing her sacrifice and the futility of his own hatred, is also granted a way out of Hell, and they return to Heaven together, highlighting the redemptive power of unconditional love.

Our Time's Crisis: The Lost Meaning of Life

An article by Willis Harman and Howard Rheingold, titled "Vår tids kris: Livets förlorade mening" (Our Time's Crisis: The Lost Meaning of Life), discusses the modern societal problem of a crisis in the meaning of life. They argue that the mechanistic worldview prevalent in modern society has diminished the significance of experiences like inspiration and enlightenment. This loss of meaning contributes to societal problems such as unemployment, environmental degradation, and war. The authors suggest that a new understanding of human consciousness, emerging from scientific research, offers a path toward rediscovering life's meaning. They highlight the growing interest in meditation, spiritual teachings, and the study of consciousness, suggesting a shift from materialism towards a more holistic and spiritual worldview.

Placebo Effect and Regression

The issue also touches upon the placebo effect, explaining it as a phenomenon where a treatment works despite lacking active ingredients, due to the patient's belief in its efficacy. The article suggests that visualization techniques can be effectively used in healthcare and education to reduce anxiety. Another section discusses regression therapy, particularly in the context of reincarnation, suggesting that while not scientifically provable, it can offer profound relief from personal problems by addressing past-life traumas.

Social Innovation and SUS

A piece introduces "Sociala Uppfinningar i Sverige" (SUS), an organization dedicated to promoting positive social innovations. SUS aims to identify and foster creative solutions to social problems, encouraging collaboration between researchers and practitioners. The article emphasizes the importance of imagination, humor, and a focus on ecological and humanistic values in creating a more humane society.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Sökaren" consistently explores the boundaries of human experience, questioning established scientific and religious paradigms. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting both extraordinary claims and skeptical counterarguments, encouraging readers to critically examine phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. Themes of belief, skepticism, the nature of reality, the power of the mind, and the search for meaning are recurrent throughout the articles. The magazine seems to advocate for a broader, more inclusive understanding of reality that can encompass both scientific inquiry and subjective experience, particularly in the realms of parapsychology and spirituality.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: nr 1, 1990
Date: January 1990
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
ISSN: 0038-0504
Cover Headline: Livsstil (Lifestyle)

This issue of Sökaren magazine delves into the multifaceted concept of lifestyle, exploring its various forms and implications, alongside a range of spiritual, esoteric, and scientific topics.

Science Literacy in the West

The issue opens with an article highlighting a 1988 survey by Northern Illinois University Public Opinion Laboratory, which revealed a low level of scientific understanding among Americans and Britons. Only about 6% of Americans could grasp the meaning of science in society and daily life, with similar results in Great Britain. The survey measured knowledge of scientific methods, understanding of terms, and awareness of science's societal impact. While age was not a significant factor, men showed slightly better results than women. The article notes that British respondents had a slightly better understanding of science's societal role.

The Enigmatic Steiner and Theosophy

A critical look is taken at Rudolf Steiner, prompted by an article in the journal 'Human-Etik'. Boris Beltzikoff questions Steiner's claims, such as Buddha's 1604 mission on Mars to promote peace and Francis of Assisi being his successor there. Beltzikoff also discusses Steiner's explanation for the two Jesus children narratives in the Gospels, which Steiner attributed to two different families and a spiritual transference of consciousness. The article presents Beltzikoff's ironic take on Steiner's 'spiritual science' method for resolving these biblical contradictions.

Separately, 'Tidskriften Teosofiskt Forum' is promoted, promising articles on the sources of wisdom, the solar system, Buddhist teachings, creation myths, the Cathars, Jesus and Christ in history and myth, and cyclical renewals of theosophical doctrine. Theosophy is described as an ancient system of thought, not a new invention.

Provocation: Witchcraft and Devil Worship

Örjan Björkhem's article, "Provokation," critically examines modern portrayals of witchcraft and devil worship. He distinguishes between historical witchcraft, rooted in pre-Christian fertility rites and folk beliefs, and devil worship, a Christian phenomenon associated with black magic and a desire for power. Björkhem argues that many contemporary practitioners, using items like tarot cards and simple salves, are merely imitating these traditions superficially. He contrasts the 'devil' of historical witchcraft, often a figure of fertility, with the biblical devil, and notes that historical accusations of witchcraft often stemmed from hardship and social exclusion. He also points out that true devil worship, unlike witchcraft, is a Christian phenomenon, often associated with higher social strata and driven by greed.

Book Reviews and Recommendations

Several book reviews are featured:

• "Att öppna inre dörrar" by Eileen Caddy is praised as a daily wisdom guide, offering insights into living by higher laws and achieving inner peace through love and non-violence, akin to M.K. Gandhi's philosophy.
• "Kristus i Vattumannens tecken" by Arild Romarheim is reviewed critically for its phenomenological approach to 'new spirituality' and its questioning of various interpretations of Jesus Christ, suggesting the author's critique is more of a catalog than an insightful analysis.
• "Den som vandrar om natten" by Marianne Fredriksson is described as a well-written novel that explores the relationship between a teacher and a student, drawing parallels with Mika Waltari's style.
• "Esséernas fredsevangelium" by Székely is dismissed as a poorly executed forgery, lacking ethical or religious depth.
• "Den smala vägen" and "Det svåra steget till gemenskap" by M. Scott Peck are recommended for their insights into personal development, psychological maturity, and the creation of authentic community through acceptance, responsibility, and contemplation.
• "Baoms visor" by Baom Carlman is presented as a beautifully designed book of illustrated poems and songs focusing on emotions, forgiveness, and inner peace.
• "Häxans handbok" by Dannie Druehyld is found to be a disorganized collection of magical advice lacking depth and practical utility.
• "Esoterisk kristendom" by Ronald P. Beesley is deemed difficult to understand for the uninitiated, exploring concepts like karma and planetary egos.
• "Så ger sig Gud till känna" by Gunnar Hillerdal is a collection of personal accounts of religious experiences, offering a broad documentation and analysis of religious experiences in contemporary times.
• "Heliga och helande bilder" by Gun Maij Aronsson is a report on studying Tibetan thangka painting, praised for its content but criticized for poor language and printing errors.

Other Articles and Features

• "Kontakt" section includes personal ads seeking individuals with paranormal abilities and friendship.
• "Gåvor" acknowledges donations to the magazine.
• "Läsvärdesundersökning" presents the results of a reader survey on article popularity, with Alf Ahlberg's "Vision och verklighet" ranking highest.
• Doris Ankarberg is featured for her work as a medium and spiritual teacher, with information on her book "Samtal med Cleo" and healing/meditation cassettes.
• "Footprints on the Path" by Eileen Caddy is excerpted, offering daily spiritual guidance.
• "Magnetterapins Grunder" by Ivan Troëng is advertised as a guide to magnetic therapy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, personal growth, and alternative belief systems, including Theosophy, New Age, and various forms of esotericism. There is a critical yet open approach to phenomena like UFOs and paranormal experiences, often juxtaposed with scientific perspectives. The editorial stance appears to favor introspection, self-discovery, and a questioning attitude towards established norms, while also providing practical information and reviews of relevant literature. The magazine also touches upon societal issues, contrasting different lifestyle choices and their underlying values.