Sokaren - 1990 No 05

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR5
Volume: 27
Date: 1990
Type: Independent journal for life-view issues.

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life-view questions, presents a diverse range of articles exploring spirituality, personal development, and unexplained phenomena. The cover features composer Ralph Lundsten, described as a 'seeker,' with a headline highlighting his role as a composer and his electronic music studio, Andromeda.

Ralph Lundsten: A Seeker of the Soul

The main feature profiles Ralph Lundsten, an internationally renowned composer of electronic music. The article details his journey from a non-musical background to discovering music at age 17, which he describes as finding his 'home.' Lundsten's studio, 'Andromeda,' is located in a distinctive pink castle-like house. He is portrayed as a 'seeker of the soul,' using humor and unique language to express his findings. He emphasizes the importance of solitude and silence for personal growth, viewing his music and studio as an 'emotional travel agency.' Lundsten suggests that music can act as a platform to connect with higher states of consciousness, enabling a sense of timelessness. He has composed music for ballets and plays, and his work is widely played on Swedish Radio. The article also touches upon his views on reincarnation, which he finds deeply resonant, likening life to a journey where each life is a step towards greater consciousness.

Critiques of Military, Politics, and Sport

Lundsten expresses a critical view of societal structures, particularly the military, politics, and sport. He argues that society is often led by 'young, inexperienced spirits' whose immaturity leads to conflict and war. He contrasts the natural life cycle of the body and soul with societal rhythms, suggesting that the 'unhappy child within us' leads to negative actions and societal problems. He believes that individuals often create their own 'paradise garden' but fail to cultivate it, leading to dissatisfaction and conflict.

The Concept of Reincarnation

Reincarnation is a central theme, with Lundsten explaining it as a natural cycle of existence where the soul evolves through different physical forms. He believes this concept explains why individuals may have memories of past lives and why different life forms are at varying stages of development. He likens this to a school of existence where souls learn and progress.

Embracing Life Without Expectation

Lundsten advises embracing life without expectation, stating that the most profound moments often occur unexpectedly. He contrasts the fleeting nature of external successes with the lasting impact of moments of harmony and joy that can bring a sense of eternity.

New Age and Spiritual Movements

Ingalill Eriksson's article, 'New Age is Coming,' discusses the shift from modernism and postmodernism towards new spiritual movements. Modernism is characterized by faith in scientific reason and progress, while postmodernism reflects disillusionment and irony. New Age, in contrast, emphasizes humility, love, and a connection to nature and cosmic consciousness. It integrates spiritual values with scientific understanding, valuing intuition and personal experience alongside intellect.

The Method of Truth-Seeking

Several contributors, including Karl-Erik Edris, Gunnar Larson, Göran Brusewitz, Dénis Lindbohm, Åke V. Ström, Arne Algard, Nils Kalén, and Birgitta Manners Stålhammar, share their perspectives on the method of truth-seeking. They highlight the importance of openness, critical thinking, intuition, and the ability to question one's own beliefs. Edris stresses the need to acknowledge being wrong for personal growth. Larson emphasizes the individual and experiential nature of spiritual seeking, cautioning against rigid methods. Brusewitz advocates for balancing rational and irrational thinking and being critical of information sources. Lindbohm shares his personal journey of seeking answers through books and inner exploration, integrating scientific and mystical perspectives. Ström advises objective examination of teachings and distinguishing between religious and philosophical approaches. Algard suggests focusing on the positive and holistic aspects of life. Kalén discusses the evolution of human intelligence and the need for critical evaluation of religious and scientific claims. Stålhammar emphasizes an open yet discerning approach, suggesting that true teachings are accessible without excessive cost or the need for gurus.

Ante Jonsson: Contact with Extraterrestrials

Clas Svahn reports on the experiences of Ante Jonsson, who claims to have had contact with extraterrestrial beings since 1984. Jonsson describes encounters with beings, including one named Jenny, and journeys to other planets. The article details a specific incident in 1984 where Jonsson reported seeing a UFO and being taken aboard a craft, leading to a police investigation and medical examination. The article notes the difficulty in verifying such claims and the challenges faced by investigators, including inconsistencies in witness accounts and the subjective nature of the experiences.

Erik Rolf and Pyramid Power

Another article explores the phenomenon of 'pyramid power' through the experiences of Erik Rolf, who sleeps inside a portable copper pyramid. Rolf claims that the pyramid enhances his energy levels, leading to clearer dreams and increased vitality. He shares anecdotes about the pyramid's effects on wine and plants, suggesting that the geometric shape itself is key. The article also references research into pyramid effects, including experiments with razor blades and observations of pyramid-shaped buildings.

Andy Schneider: Life Teacher

Andy Schneider, described as a 'life teacher' from Canada associated with the New Age movement, shares his philosophy on freedom and self-discovery. He believes true freedom comes from knowing oneself, not from external possessions or achievements. Schneider emphasizes the importance of balancing one's spiritual and physical selves and listening to inner guidance. He suggests that pain is a signal of disharmony and that the subconscious mind holds important truths. He advocates for embracing change and transforming oneself from within, rather than trying to change external circumstances.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and the search for meaning in life. There is a strong emphasis on personal experience, intuition, and questioning established norms, whether religious, scientific, or societal. The editorial stance appears to be open to alternative perspectives and phenomena, encouraging readers to explore their own paths to understanding and truth. The articles collectively suggest a belief in a deeper reality beyond the material and rational, accessible through inner exploration and spiritual awareness.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 1/1990 (Volume 33)
Date: January 1990
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0280-3710
Cover Headline: Kätterska tankar om regressioner samt några övertygande fall (Heretical thoughts on regressions and some convincing cases)

This issue of Sökaren delves into controversial topics surrounding regression therapy, UFO phenomena, and mystical experiences, featuring a debate between proponents and skeptics. The magazine also includes book reviews and discussions on alternative healing and spiritual philosophies.

Reportage: Gott intryck & Sune Hjorth

The issue opens with a report on Ante Jonsson, who claims to have had mystical experiences. The reporter notes Jonsson's calm demeanor and his interest in building complex models. Jonsson expresses dissatisfaction with a book written about him by Sune Hjorth, a teacher from Sundsvall. Jonsson claims Hjorth misrepresented his experiences, pressured him to conform to a specific narrative inspired by George Adamski, and distorted facts. Jonsson states that Hjorth never met him in person, despite the book's publication. He also refutes Hjorth's claims that he has confirmed the existence of life on other planets in our solar system, stating that his own research suggested life on planets outside our solar system.

Debatt: Kätterska tankar om regressioner samt några övertygande fall by Jan Erik Sigdell

Jan Erik Sigdell presents a defense of regression therapy, arguing against critics like Sven Magnusson. Sigdell contends that while critics focus on 'evidence' and dismiss subjective experiences as fantasy, the therapeutic success of regression is paramount. He shares several cases where regression led to significant improvements in patients' lives, such as relief from chronic pain or psychological distress. Sigdell criticizes the tendency to dismiss these outcomes if they cannot be empirically proven, suggesting that a rigid adherence to scientific proof can overlook genuine healing. He highlights a TV film from Australia showcasing regression cases with verifiable details, such as historical accuracy and the discovery of physical locations mentioned by subjects.

Sigdell argues that the 'heretical' nature of regression therapy stems from its challenge to established worldviews. He posits that the mind, when freed from intellectual constraints, can access profound insights. He criticizes the selective use of evidence by skeptics, who may focus on minor inconsistencies to discredit the entire phenomenon. Sigdell emphasizes that the goal of regression is problem-solving and healing, and the historical accuracy of details is secondary to the client's well-being.

Genmäle: Sven Magnusson's Response to Jan Erik Sigdell

Sven Magnusson responds to Jan Erik Sigdell's article, questioning the validity of regression therapy as evidence for past lives. Magnusson argues that the 'convincing cases' presented by Sigdell are merely indicia, not proof. He points out that Sigdell's own examples, like the case of Nils-Olof Jacobson's subject, show how easily memories can be confused with current life experiences or fantasies. Magnusson cites researchers like Professor Ian Stevenson and Professor Hans Eysenck, who estimated that up to 95% of regression hypnosis cases are not related to past lives. He suggests that the success of regression therapy might be due to symbolic drama or psychological catharsis, rather than actual recall of past lives. Magnusson also discusses Raymond Moody's concept of cryptomnesia, where forgotten information from this life resurfaces during hypnosis, as a potential explanation for seemingly past-life memories. He concludes that while regression can be a useful therapeutic tool, its value as evidence for reincarnation is low.

Reportage: Flygande tefat i Sovjet

This section reports on UFO sightings and alleged landings in the Soviet Union, specifically in Voronesj, in October 1989. According to Tass news agency and other Russian media, witnesses, including children, reported seeing a large luminous sphere or disc land in a park. Figures described as human-like, about three to four meters tall, emerged from the craft. The object was reportedly banana-shaped and left marks in the ground with increased gamma radiation. The report notes that Russian media took these events seriously, and a scientific group was formed to investigate. The article also mentions that UFO observations have become more frequent in the Russian press since the era of Glasnost.

Spännande mediahusvision

Ingrid Olausson, a journalist, proposes the creation of a 'media house for human development.' This concept envisions an open space combining various media platforms like newspapers, radio, and TV programs, all focused on 'inner world values' such as self-realization, harmony with nature, and health consciousness. Olausson believes that a significant portion of the population is interested in these topics, which are currently underrepresented in mainstream media. The proposed media house would aim to provide in-depth reporting and foster discussion on these subjects.

Parapsykologi på Island

This brief note mentions that a society for parapsychological research was founded in Iceland in 1905, and that parapsychological research has been conducted at the University of Iceland for the past 16 years. It highlights that Iceland has been more active in this field compared to other Nordic countries.

Ständiga överraskningar

This section reviews articles published in the magazine 'Sökaren' over the past two years that have been critical of various religious and New Age phenomena. The author notes that Sökaren, despite its focus on spirituality, has consistently published critical pieces, surprising some readers. Examples of critical articles include those on Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, Scientology, psychic astronomy, and New Age movements.

Debatt: Tummen ner för Sökaren!

This article presents a critical perspective on the magazine 'Sökaren' from former subscribers. The author, who seems to be the editor or publisher, acknowledges that the magazine is not for everyone and that reader turnover is normal. However, they address criticisms that the magazine has become 'boring,' lacks depth and seriousness, and focuses too much on 'worn-out' topics like reincarnation and UFOs. The author defends the magazine's approach, stating that it aims to provide in-depth information and critical analysis, and that its content reflects the editor's own interests and journalistic style. They also discuss the challenges of producing a magazine with limited resources and the importance of a clear editorial vision.

Bokrecensioner

This section features several book reviews:

• Böcker om livet (Books about life) by Nils-Olof Jacobson:
• *Det gudomliga huset (The Divine House)* by IEVE (Harald Davidsson): A book of short reflections on life, spirituality, and personal experiences, influenced by Sai Baba.
• *Möt Dig Själv bortom allt förnuft (Meet Yourself Beyond All Reason)* by Bengt Stern: A book advocating for self-discovery through techniques like body-psychotherapy and primal therapy, emphasizing the importance of confronting past emotional traumas.
• *Den stulna bönemattan (The Stolen Prayer Mat)*: An anthology of Sufi wisdom, presenting aphorisms and stories.
• *Legenden om Shamballa (The Legend of Shamballa)* by Torkom Saraydarian: A book for those initiated into esoteric traditions, discussing concepts like Sanat Kumara and the 'Hierarchy.'
• *Hjertets vej (The Way of the Heart)* by Asger Lorentsen: A book about Ananda Tara Shan, a contemporary 'avatar' with a spiritual movement based on Theosophy.
• *Intuition og etik (Intuition and Ethics)* by Bo Nymark Andersen: Discusses the relationship between faith, knowledge, and intuition, drawing from Rudolf Steiner and Martinus.
• *Lyckan och lidandet (Happiness and Suffering)* by Gunner Frederiksen (Swedish translation): Explores the problem of evil in relation to theology, philosophy, psychology, and Martinus' cosmology.
• *Livet og det lukkede rum (Life and the Closed Room)* by Per Bruus-Jensen: Discusses Martinus' cosmology and the concept of the physical universe as a cosmic womb.

• Bokrevy (Book Review) from Bokrevy nr. 1, 1990:
• *I vetenskapens utmarker (In the Outskirts of Science)* edited by Peter Brookesmith: A collection of articles on unexplained phenomena, focusing on healing, animal behavior, and alternative medicine.
• *Dina bästa sidor (Your Best Sides)* by Gill Cox and Sheila Dainow: A self-help book on personal development, focusing on taking responsibility and improving one's life.
• *Resan inåt (The Journey Inward)* by Shirley MacLaine: A guide to inner transformation, drawing from New Age principles and personal experiences.
• *Hälsa som livsmening (Health as Life's Meaning)* edited by Sten M. Philipson and Nils Uddenberg: An anthology exploring the modern emphasis on health, personal well-being, and the meaning of life.
• *Homeopati till husbehov (Homeopathy for Home Use)* by Sven-Erik Kastebrink: A practical guide to homeopathy, explaining its principles and recommending remedies for common ailments.
• *Förbättra din hälsa med meditation (Improve Your Health with Meditation)* by Deepak Chopra: Discusses the causes of major illnesses and suggests meditation as a means to improve health and well-being.

Brev: Transdansen är nyckeln

This letter by Wilhelm Östberg responds to an article by Örjan Björkhem regarding rock art in Southern Africa. Östberg argues that the rock paintings primarily depict the trance dances of the Bushmen, a practice central to their spiritual life. He suggests that the paintings served as a way for dancers to enter altered states of consciousness, communicate spiritual energy, and potentially serve as teaching tools for others. Östberg believes the paintings are not merely artistic expressions but deeply connected to the Bushmen's understanding of healing and their relationship with the spiritual world.

Bokrecension: Människan och framtiden

This review discusses the book 'Vi och vår jord' (We and Our Earth), an edited collection of speeches by recipients of the Right Livelihood Award. The reviewer praises the award winners for their dedication to addressing global issues such as human rights, environmental protection, and peace. The book highlights individuals and organizations working for positive change, including those focused on rehabilitation for torture victims, prisoner rights, sustainable agriculture, rainforest preservation, and tree planting movements. The reviewer notes the absence of Christian groups and inventors among the awardees but emphasizes the overall value of the book in showcasing inspiring efforts for a better future.

Bokrecension: Ur Bokrevy nr. 1, 1990

This section provides brief reviews of several books, including:

• *I vetenskapens utmarker (In the Outskirts of Science)*: A popular science book exploring unexplained phenomena.
• *Dina bästa sidor (Your Best Sides)*: A self-help book on personal growth.
• *Resan inåt (The Journey Inward)*: A guide to inner transformation by Shirley MacLaine.
• *Hälsa som livsmening (Health as Life's Meaning)*: An anthology on the importance of health and life meaning.
• *Homeopati till husbehov (Homeopathy for Home Use)*: A practical guide to homeopathy.
• *Förbättra din hälsa med meditation (Improve Your Health with Meditation)*: A book on meditation and health by Deepak Chopra.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of consciousness, the validity of subjective experiences versus empirical evidence, and the search for meaning and healing. There is a clear tension between a skeptical, scientific approach and a more open, spiritual, or mystical perspective. The magazine features debates on regression therapy, UFO phenomena, and alternative healing methods, presenting arguments from both proponents and critics. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to question and explore these topics rather than accepting them at face value. The magazine also showcases book reviews that cover a wide range of subjects related to personal development, spirituality, and alternative lifestyles, indicating an interest in diverse worldviews and approaches to life.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: nr 5, 1990
Publisher: Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB, Lund
Editor and Publisher: Sven Magnusson
Address: Östra Kanalgatan 18, 65220 Karlstad
Contact: Phone: 054-11 16 89, Postgiro: 70 60 47-8, Bankgiro: 372-8128
Subscription Price: Full year (8 issues): 195:-, Half year: 105:-
ISSN: 0038-0504
Original Language: Swedish
Country of Publication: Sweden

Editorial Introduction: "En intressant tidskrift!"

The editorial section, written by editor Sven Magnusson, defines Sökaren as a magazine for individuals with a specific interest profile in life views and attitudes. He emphasizes that the magazine is filled with content he personally finds interesting, strong, and important. Magnusson acknowledges that readers whose perspectives and interests deviate significantly from his own may not find the magazine as appealing, and that some may seek other information sources, which he deems acceptable. He outlines the magazine's focus by stating that those uninterested in debates about "regression to previous lives" or finding discussions on rational thinking "heavy" might not be the natural target audience.

Magnusson further specifies the content by mentioning articles that might not appeal to everyone, such as those on private religiosity, inner journeys, and specific authors like Odd Engström. Conversely, he suggests that readers who appreciate critical and revealing articles like "The Hundredth Ape" and "Psychic Astronomy" might find themselves frequently annoyed by the content. However, he identifies the magazine's core audience as those who find interest in topics such as Anna Bornstein's "Encounter with Paul Brunton," Örjan Björkhem's "Crystal Television," Erik Damman's "Intuitive Archaeology," and Jerome Clark's "Reflections on UFO Cases."

The editorial concludes with a somewhat provocative statement, "Tummen ner för Sökaren!" (Thumbs down for Sökaren!), implying a challenge or a statement about the magazine's potentially polarizing nature.

Table of Contents and Featured Articles

The issue features a diverse range of articles and contributors:

• Birgitta Manners Stålhammar: "Ralph Lundsten, en själens äventyrare" (Ralph Lundsten, an adventurer of the soul) - Page 2
• Ingalill Eriksson: "New age kommer" (New Age is coming) - Page 5, and "Sanningssökandets metod" (The method of truth-seeking) - Page 6, and "Tidskrifter" (Magazines) - Page 10
• Hans Brattberg: "Erik sover gott i pyramiden" (Erik sleeps well in the pyramid) - Page 12
• Catarina Gisby: "Andy Schneider, livslärare" (Andy Schneider, life teacher) - Page 14
• Kristina Bryngel: "Dikter" (Poems) - Page 15
• Clas Svahn: "Kontakt med utomjordingar" (Contact with extraterrestrials) - Page 16
• Jan Erik Sigdell: "Kätterska tankar om regressioner samt några övertygande fall" (Heretical thoughts on regressions and some convincing cases) - Page 22
• Robert Steiner: "Direktsändning i TV testar psykiska krafter" (Live broadcast on TV tests psychic powers) - Page 26
• Rolf Ahlzén: "Are Waerlands världsbild" (Are Waerland's worldview) - Page 28
• Håkan Blomqvist: "Svar till Dan Landgré angående mystiska upplevelser" (Reply to Dan Landgré regarding mystical experiences) - Page 34
• Nils-Olof Jacobson: "Böcker om livet" (Books about life) - Page 36, "Brev" (Letters) - Page 38, "Recension" (Review) - Page 38, "Bokrevy" (Book review) - Page 39

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around spirituality, alternative lifestyles, and esoteric subjects. The magazine positions itself as a platform for critical discussion and exploration of topics often considered outside mainstream discourse, such as past-life regression, psychic phenomena, UFOs, and New Age philosophies. The editorial stance, as articulated by Sven Magnusson, is one of personal curation, aiming to engage a specific readership that shares an interest in these often unconventional subjects. The magazine appears to encourage critical thinking and open debate, even if it means challenging conventional viewpoints or potentially alienating some readers.