Sokaren - 1991 No 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1991 and identified as NR2 of ÅRGÅNG 28, is an independent journal for life-view issues. It features a cover story on the 1990 Right Livelihood Award, with a photograph of the recipients and a headline announcing the award.

The Right Livelihood Award 1990

The main feature focuses on the 1990 Right Livelihood Award, often called the 'alternative Nobel Prize'. The award, founded by Jakob von Yxkull, aims to recognize work that benefits humanity and complements the Nobel Prizes. The 1990 awards were presented the day before the Nobel ceremony.

The recipients of the 1990 award were:

• Bernard Lédéa Quedraogo from Burkina Faso, honored for building the successful NAAM movement and the 'Sex S' organization, which empowers small farmers in West Africa. He advocates for self-reliance and cooperation among African farmers.
• Asociation de Trabajadores Campesinos del Carare (ATCC), a Colombian peasant and farmworker organization, recognized for its courageous commitment to non-violence and community building despite threats. The article mentions the murder of ATCC leaders Miguel Barajas and Josue Mateus in February 1990. ATCC promotes dialogue and mediation, and also engages in rural development projects.
• Felicia Langer, an Israeli human rights lawyer, celebrated for over 20 years of defending Palestinians against injustices in Israeli military courts. The jury highlighted her personal courage and emphasized the need for mutual respect and dialogue to resolve the conflict. Langer, a Holocaust survivor, believes that those who have suffered should not oppress others and aims to build bridges between Palestinians and Jews.
• Alice Tepper Marlin, an American economist and founder of the Council on Economic Priorities (CEP) in New York, received an honorary award. CEP is recognized for its twenty years of research on social responsibility, security, energy, and environmental issues, including the consumer guide 'Shopping for a Better World'. The award honors CEP for pointing the way for a Western economy that contributes to, rather than threatens, global security and human well-being.

The award ceremony took place in the Swedish Parliament building. The article notes that while the Right Livelihood Award has gained recognition, it does not receive the same media attention as the Nobel Prizes. It poses the question of who truly benefits humanity more: Nobel laureates or recipients of the Right Livelihood Award.

Reportage: 'Alternative Nobel Prize' Awarded for the Tenth Time

This section elaborates on the Right Livelihood Award, describing it as a beacon of hope in a dark world. It reiterates the recipients and their work: African self-help, non-violence in Latin America, human rights in Israel, and 'green' economy in the West. Jakob von Yxkull, the founder, sold his stamp collection ten years prior to establish the prize, which was initially rejected by the Nobel Foundation.

Reportage: Mandala - Mysticism and Philosophy

This article introduces Anna Bornstein, the editor of 'Mandala - Tidskrift för mystik och filosofi' (Mandala - Magazine for Mysticism and Philosophy). Bornstein, who has translated works by Paul Brunton and written a book on aging, describes Mandala as a publication that aims to show that a deeper consciousness exists and can be accessed. The magazine covers diverse spiritual traditions, including those of classical Greek thinkers, Indian sages, and Chinese writers, as well as figures like Buddha and Teresa of Avila. Mandala seeks to be a guide for those seeking to understand their inner reality, emphasizing that this is an internal journey independent of external circumstances. The magazine is a family venture, with Anna Bornstein working alongside her sister Kajsa Prim and mother Anna-Britta Prim. It has received funding from the Swedish Arts Council.

Reportage: Idrott och psykiska upplevelser (Sports and Psychological Experiences)

This piece, written by Wolf Wondollek, explores the connection between sports and altered states of consciousness, including paranormal phenomena. It draws parallels between the experiences of athletes and those of yogis and mystics, noting that athletes often achieve these states as a byproduct of physical exertion, while meditators require disciplined practice. The article discusses various experiences reported by athletes, such as feelings of freedom, emptiness, weightlessness, ecstasy, and self-control. It also touches upon the concept of 'meditative running' as a way to activate life-affirming energies and achieve harmony, peace, and ecological balance.

Reportage: Naturvetenskap (Natural Science)

Wolf Wondollek also contributes an article questioning the Darwinian concept of a 'struggle for existence' in nature. The author argues that species avoid competition and instead cooperate to survive. This perspective challenges the traditional view of nature as brutal and selfish, highlighting examples of symbiosis and mutual benefit. The article suggests that modern biology is lagging behind physics in its understanding of nature, and that concepts like 'morphic fields' and the 'formative cause' are gaining traction.

Reportage: Nytt andligt center (New Spiritual Center)

This article introduces Sjunne Ferger, who has established a new center for personal development at Säfstaholm Castle in Vingåker, Sweden. Ferger, a musician, focuses on personal development through methods like aikido, meditation, reiki, and floating. He emphasizes the importance of 'ki' (life energy) and its application in self-defense and personal growth. The center also hosts business conferences, which serve as an opportunity to introduce people to spiritual concepts. The article mentions that research into 'ki' is ongoing in countries like the USA and Russia.

Reportage: Mordet på Föllingegården (The Murder at Föllingegården)

This piece by Olov Lindahl details the closure of Föllingegården, a well-known health center led by Lilly Johansson. Föllingegården was praised for its innovative therapies, including a strict diet and the elimination of dairy products, which reportedly helped many patients with chronic conditions. The center faced criticism but achieved remarkable success rates. The closure is attributed to financial difficulties following a major renovation and a subsequent increase in daily costs, making it unaffordable for many patients. The article criticizes the financial decisions made by Folksam, the insurance company that supported the renovation, and laments the potential loss of this unique health facility.

Reportage: Levande healing (Living Healing)

Peter Östman writes about his personal experience with 'living healing', a method applied by Michael Floyd and Kristina Montelius to treat his severe heel spur. He describes the intense but effective treatment, which provided significant pain relief and improvement. The article explains that 'living healing', also known as 'Chua K'a', is a technique originating from Mongolian warriors, involving pressure and manipulation to release pain and tension stored in the body's tissues. The method is said to be effective and guaranteed, with payment only required if the patient feels better.

Utlandsreportage: Internationell IANDS-konferens i Washington augusti 1990 (International IANDS Conference in Washington August 1990)

Göran Grip reports on the first international conference of the International Association for Near-Death Studies (IANDS) held in Washington D.C. in August 1990. Key speakers included Kenneth Ring, who presented his 'Omega Project' linking difficult childhoods to near-death experiences (NDEs) and UFO experiences. Dr. Melvin Morse discussed NDEs in children, and Bruce Greyson presented research on NDEs and suicide attempts. Raymond Moody, known for his work on NDEs, has shifted his focus to past-life experiences and 'scrying'. The conference explored the connections between NDEs and various other phenomena, including religious experiences and shamanism, suggesting that NDEs are becoming more integrated into our collective consciousness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of alternative health, spirituality, and personal development, often questioning conventional scientific and medical paradigms. There is a strong emphasis on inner experience, self-reliance, and non-traditional approaches to well-being. The editorial stance appears to favor holistic perspectives and critical examination of established systems, as seen in the critiques of conventional medicine and the celebration of alternative award recipients. The magazine promotes a worldview that values cooperation over competition, inner exploration over material pursuits, and a deep respect for human rights and diverse life views.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1990, is a Swedish magazine focusing on topics related to the paranormal, spirituality, and alternative lifestyles. It features a mix of personal accounts, critical analyses, book reviews, and advertisements for related services and publications.

Gunlög Can Begin to Dance Again: Back Pain Under Control

The lead article, by Peter Östman, tells the story of Gunlög Erlandsson-Roos, a 46-year-old former dancer and theater pedagogue who suffered from severe back pain, ischias, and migraines. Her condition was so debilitating that she had been on sick leave for 3.5 years. Traditional treatments like acupuncture provided only temporary relief. Gunlög found significant improvement after undergoing 20 hours of 'living healing' sessions with Michael Floyd, Kristina, and Erik. Her ischias disappeared, and her back pain is now under control. She also continues with physical exercises, described as a blend of warm-up gymnastics and yoga, which she credits with contributing to her recovery and ability to resume her professional activities.

The article also briefly mentions other patients: Eila, 72, who is experiencing progress with a chronic illness, and Henrik Forsslund, 44, who stopped treatment after ten sessions of living healing, finding it did not provide lasting results for his mysterious muscle cramp condition.

A footnote discusses the prevalence of pain as a health problem and the existence of alternative methods alongside conventional medicine, noting recent research into the nature of pain.

Follow Along on Musical Journeys in Outer and Inner Space!

This section is an advertisement for the Andromeda Fan Society, an organization dedicated to the music of composer Ralph Lundsten. They offer CD and cassette recordings for sale, promoting them as 'soulful adventures and romance in the new age.' The ad details ordering information, including a special offer for advance payment where shipping is included.

UFOs – What Are They Really?

This article, a summary of a piece by Jacques Vallee in the Journal of Scientific Exploration, critically examines the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH) for UFOs. Vallee presents five arguments against ETH:

1. Excessive Landings: The sheer number of reported landings (estimated at 14 million over 40 years) seems implausible for a species conducting scientific research.
2. Biological Similarity: Reported alien beings are too similar to humans in general appearance and physiology, suggesting a common evolutionary path rather than extraterrestrial origin.
3. Inconsistent Behavior: The reported behavior of aliens, particularly in abduction scenarios involving sexual contact, seems crude and not indicative of a highly advanced, scientific civilization.
4. Historical Context: UFO sightings have been reported throughout history, with descriptions varying according to cultural expectations (e.g., flying saucers in the 1950s, airships in the 19th century, spectral rockets in the 1940s), suggesting a psychological or cultural projection rather than a consistent extraterrestrial phenomenon.
5. Unusual Properties: UFOs exhibit properties like sudden appearance/disappearance and shape-shifting, which defy conventional physics and suggest manipulation of space-time.

Vallee suggests alternative hypotheses, including 'earthlights' (a phenomenon affecting consciousness) or an unknown control system. He also notes that witnesses often describe a state where normal time and space no longer apply, akin to a lucid dream or nightmare.

The article also mentions Tommy Brodd, offering consultations on future and psychic development.

Sten Lindgren and the Space Brothers

This lengthy article by Håkan Blomqvist investigates the claims of Sten Lindgren, a 50-year-old UFO contactee who publicly shared his experiences. Lindgren gained attention through TV appearances and lectures, where he described contacts with 'space brothers' and their mission to help humanity.

The author recounts his own past involvement with Lindgren's group, the Intergalaktiska Federationen (IGF), in the early 1970s. He describes the group's esoteric beliefs, which blended UFOlogy with elements of Theosophy and New Age ideology, including concepts like 'Inkas' (souls from other planets) and 'cosmic brotherhood.'

Lindgren's claims include observing numerous UFOs, receiving telepathic messages, and interacting with a mysterious woman known as 'B.A.', whom he believed to be an extraterrestrial agent. The article details Lindgren's accounts of alleged contacts, including a significant event at Nävsjön in 1965, where he claimed to have met an alien. However, interviews with other witnesses present at the Nävsjön event (Kristian, Karin, and Bertil) reveal conflicting and less extraordinary accounts, casting doubt on Lindgren's narrative.

The article also discusses Bjarne Håkansson, Lindgren's associate, and their organization 'Association B.C.' (ABC). Håkansson later wrote a book, 'UFO-gåtan,' which included critical analysis of UFO cases.

Lindgren's project 'U.R.D.' (UFO-Rapporterings- och Datasystem) aimed to scientifically analyze UFO reports, but it ultimately lost momentum. The author concludes that while Lindgren may have had some genuine UFO experiences, his interpretations are highly imaginative and influenced by his belief system.

Book Reviews and Other Sections

Several book reviews are featured:

• Rysk fromhet (Russian Piety): Reviews of books published by Bokförlaget Åsak about Russian Orthodox piety, including 'De heligas arv' (The Heritage of the Saints) and Ivan Shmeljov's 'Pilgrimsresan' (The Pilgrimage).
• Kortfattad visdom (Concise Wisdom): A review of Bertil Martinsson's book 'Om konsten att förlåta' (On the Art of Forgiveness).
• Ny tidskrift (New Magazine): An announcement of 'Ny kultur,' a new magazine for followers of Martinus Kosmologi.
• Bokrevy (Book Review) from Bokrevy nr 4, 1990:
• 'Esséernas fredsevangelium' (The Essene Gospel of Peace) by Edmond Bordeaux Székely, questioned for its authenticity.
• 'Hör du vinden blåsa?' (Do You Hear the Wind Blowing?) by Wilfrid Stinissen, on the Holy Spirit.
• 'Den oändliga visdomen' (The Infinite Wisdom) by Dalai Lama XIV.
• 'Utbildning i den nya tidsåldern' (Education in the New Age) by Alice A. Bailey.
• Trädens planet (Planet of the Trees): A review of a book by Ael Gi, which starts with an environmental message from an extraterrestrial but devolves into disturbing ideas about racism and euthanasia.
• Marie-Louise von Franz interviewed about dreams: A review of Fraser Boa's book 'Drömmens väg' (The Way of Dreams), based on interviews with the Jungian analyst.
• TEOSOFISKT FORUM (Theosophical Forum): An advertisement for a new magazine covering esoteric and mystical topics.
• Book reviews:
• 'Lucifer-länken' (The Lucifer Connection) by Joseph Carr, criticizing the New Age movement.
• 'Inre harmoni' (Inner Harmony) by Kristina Wennergren, a subjective guide to New Age concepts.
• 'Kan vi lita på vetenskapen?' (Can We Trust Science?) by various authors, exploring the philosophy of science.
• 'Psykiatern och själen' (The Psychiatrist and the Soul) by Viktor E. Frankl, on logotherapy.
• 'Ljus och färg som helande kraft' (Light and Color as Healing Power) by Annika Langlé, on color therapy.
• 'Speglingar i ljuset' (Reflections in the Light) by Shakti Gawain, daily thoughts and affirmations.
• 'Min kärleksfulla kropp' (My Loving Body) by Louise L. Hay, affirmations for a healthy body.
• 'Samtal med Cleo' (Conversations with Cleo) by Doris Ankarberg, a medium's dialogues.
• 'Det finns inte bara en Gud det finns miljoner' (There Isn't Just One God, There Are Millions) by Bob Lind, on reincarnation.
• 'Inre resor' (Inner Journeys) by Kristina Wennergren, on various forms of inner travel.
• 'Häxorna' (The Witches) by Alf Åberg, on Swedish witch trials.
• 'Huskurer & helhetsterapi' (Home Remedies & Holistic Therapy) by Gunilla Boman and Elisabeth Hoppe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of alternative healing, spirituality, esotericism, and the paranormal, with a particular focus on UFO phenomena and related belief systems. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, particularly regarding UFO claims, as evidenced by the detailed analysis of Jacques Vallee's arguments and the critical examination of Sten Lindgren's accounts. While acknowledging the existence of phenomena that defy conventional explanation, the magazine seems to favor more grounded or psychological interpretations over purely extraterrestrial ones. There is also a strong interest in various forms of self-help, personal development, and alternative therapies, often presented through book reviews and personal stories. The magazine also features advertisements for related books, courses, and services, indicating a target audience interested in these topics.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: Nr 2, 1991
Date: February 1991
Publisher: Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB, Lund
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Full year (8 issues) 220:-, Half year 120:-
Editor and Publisher: Sven Magnusson

Main Cover Story: Fantasy and Reality

The lead article, "Fantasi och verklighet" (Fantasy and Reality), by SM, explores the challenge of discerning truth from imagination when examining life philosophies and beliefs. The author posits that many claims lack a solid foundation in reality and are often presented as truths, gaining acceptance through emotional appeal or the perceived authority of the speaker. The piece suggests that individuals often construct their understanding of reality based on their own limited knowledge and inner world, and that those who believe may ignore dissenting voices. The author advises caution and critical thinking when engaging with various spiritual and philosophical systems, acknowledging that no single thinker may have fully captured the essence of reality.

Contents Overview

This issue features a diverse range of articles and reports:

• "Alternativa nobelpriset" utdelat för tionde gången by Åsa Freij discusses the awarding of alternative Nobel Prizes for the tenth time.
• Skatter finns att hämta i den "inre verkligheten" by Mona Sundquist explores treasures found within the 'inner reality'.
• Kampen för tillvaron en myt by Wolf Wondollek examines the idea that the struggle for existence is a myth.
• Idrott och psykiska upplevelser by Wolf Wondollek delves into sports and psychological experiences.
• Nytt andligt center by Åsa Freij reports on a new spiritual center.
• Internationell IANDS-konferens by Göran Grip covers an international IANDS conference.
• Mordet på Föllingegården by Olov Lindahl discusses the murder at Föllingegården.
• Levande healing lindrade smärtan and Gunlög kan börja dansa igen by Peter Östman focus on 'living healing' and its effects.
• UFO:s - vad är det egentligen? by SM questions the nature of UFOs.
• Sten Lindgren och rymdbröderna by Håkan Blomqvist discusses Sten Lindgren and the 'space brothers'.
• The issue also includes book reviews.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

Sökaren positions itself as an independent journal for life philosophy issues. The editorial content, particularly the cover story, emphasizes critical thinking, the importance of distinguishing between speculation and fact, and the subjective nature of individual reality perception. The inclusion of articles on UFOs, spiritual centers, and healing practices suggests an interest in alternative beliefs and phenomena, while the discussion of a murder case indicates a broader scope that includes societal and human interest topics. The magazine appears to encourage exploration of diverse perspectives while advocating for a grounded, critical approach to understanding the world.

Contact Information and Subscription Details

The magazine is published by Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB in Lund. Contact information for the editor and publisher, Sven Magnusson, is provided, along with postal and bank giro details. Advertising prices are also listed, with a minimum charge for small ads.