Sokaren - 1994 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 3, 1994
Volume: Årgång 31
Date: 1994
Publisher: Rinkesta Slott
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Price: 50:- inkl moms

This issue of "Sökaren" (The Seeker), a Swedish journal for life questions, presents a diverse range of topics, including spirituality, philosophy, science, and the paranormal. The cover features Hans Hof, a priest and meditator, with the headline "Hans Hof, präst och meditatör." The magazine delves into his unique approach to spirituality, bridging Eastern and Western traditions.

Hans Hof: The Priest Who Walks His Own Path

The main feature focuses on Hans Hof, described as an unusual combination of priest, philosopher of religion, and meditation teacher. He founded the Rättvik meditation center in the early seventies, pioneering Zen meditation within a Christian context. Now retired, he continues to teach Zen meditation and its importance for understanding reality. Hof's spiritual journey began early, influenced by his family's clerical background but driven by his own inner experiences. He studied Meister Eckhart, finding parallels between Eckhart's mysticism and Buddhist Zen meditation, particularly the concept of 'pure being' and leaving behind attachment to the self and things.

Hof's work is inspired by psychiatrist Stanislav Grof's research on altered states of consciousness, which he sees as a key to understanding mystical experiences. He discusses how altered states can lead to a profound experience of existence, a 'pure being' that is the ground of all consciousness. Hof also touches on the Western societal tendency to be too bound by our ego-identity, which hinders deeper exploration of consciousness. He notes that crisis situations can sometimes break down this ego-barrier, leading to profound self-awareness.

Entrepreneurship and Personal Growth

Another significant article, "Starting Your Own Business - A Powerful Way to Grow?" by Åsa Freij, features Göran Wiklund, who advocates for entrepreneurship as a path to personal growth. Wiklund, a consultant who helps businesses get started, believes that starting a business can be a way to step out of dependence and into an uncertain reality, leading to significant learning and development. He emphasizes that entrepreneurship is not just about making money but about living from spiritual principles and finding joy in one's work. He encourages listeners to trust their own intuition and experiences rather than being deterred by others' skepticism. Wiklund also offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, suggesting starting small and gradually expanding.

The Death of Materialism and the New Physics

"Materialism is Dead" by Sven Magnusson discusses the book "The Matter Myth" by Paul Davies and John Gribbin. This article highlights a paradigm shift occurring in natural sciences, moving away from a mechanistic and materialistic view of the universe. The article explains how modern physics, particularly quantum theory, has challenged the idea of a purely deterministic universe governed by cause and effect. Instead, it suggests a reality based on probabilities, waves, and particles, with an element of creativity and openness to the future. The authors argue that the universe may have an inherent tendency towards self-organization, leading to the emergence of life and intelligence.

UFOs and Extraterrestrial Intelligence

The issue also includes content related to UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. A video review discusses "UFO - The Unsolved Mystery," which examines UFO reports, including the Roswell incident. Another section explores the scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence, referencing the vastness of the universe and the potential for life on other planets. The article "Other Worlds" discusses the possibility of life beyond Earth, suggesting that if life arises automatically under the right conditions, it could be widespread throughout the cosmos.

Friedrich Nietzsche: A Sick and Sensitive Philosopher

An article by Lars Holmgren delves into the life and philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche. It discusses his cultural criticism, his ideal of the 'overman,' and his personal struggles with illness. The article references Carl-Göran Ekerwald's biography of Nietzsche, highlighting his ideas on the eternal recurrence, the will to power, and his critique of morality and religion. Nietzsche's emphasis on life-affirmation and his rejection of traditional values are explored, along with his complex relationship with music and poetry.

Hypnosis: A Human Resource

An article by Lars-Eric Uneståhl explores the history and practice of hypnosis. It traces hypnosis from ancient times, through the work of Franz Anton Mesmer, to modern scientific understanding. Uneståhl discusses various theories of hypnosis, including those linking it to altered states of consciousness, dissociation, and neurophysiological changes. The article also touches upon post-hypnotic suggestions and their effects, as well as the potential of hypnosis in therapy and self-development.

Other Content

The magazine also features a section on Rinkesta Slott, a course center for spiritual development, listing various seminars and events. There are also book reviews and advertisements for related materials, including books on UFOs, parapsychology, and spirituality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

"Sökaren" consistently explores themes of spirituality, personal growth, and the search for meaning. The journal appears to have an open-minded stance, presenting diverse perspectives from philosophy, science, and esoteric traditions. There is a clear interest in bridging different belief systems, such as Eastern and Western spirituality, and in exploring the boundaries of human consciousness and reality. The editorial stance seems to encourage critical thinking, self-inquiry, and the pursuit of a more profound understanding of life.

Title: Sökarnyheter
Issue: 4
Date: February 1994
Publisher: Sökarnyheter
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: Min sökarvandring (My Journey of Seeking)

Personal Journey and Philosophy

Min sökarvandring (My Journey of Seeking)

The issue opens with a personal narrative by Sven Magnusson, reflecting on his lifelong spiritual and intellectual quest. He describes his early engagement with Christian literature, his admiration for health advocate Are Waerland, and his connection with various poets and philosophers like Fröding, Fridegård, Strindberg, Spinoza, and Marcus Aurelius. Magnusson recounts his exploration of Eastern philosophies, including Paramhansa Yogananda's teachings, and his initial fascination with UFO literature, particularly the works of George Adamski. He details his transition from a desire to believe to a more critical stance, influenced by thinkers like Paul Kurtz and Alf Ahlberg, and his eventual embrace of agnosticism.

Skeptisk prövning (Skeptical Scrutiny)

This section features an article by Paul Kurtz, defining skepticism as a valuable tool for discerning truth and avoiding unfounded beliefs. Kurtz distinguishes between different forms of skepticism, including nihilistic skepticism (total doubt) and neutral skepticism (suspension of judgment), advocating for a 'mildred skepticism' and 'skeptical inquiry' that is constructive and leads to knowledge. He emphasizes that while absolute certainty may be unattainable, a rigorous, evidence-based approach is crucial for intelligent thought and moral progress.

Historical and Mythological Explorations

Platons Atlantis (Plato's Atlantis)

Lars Gahrn critically examines Plato's account of Atlantis, arguing that it is purely fictional. Gahrn points out the historical inconsistencies in Plato's narrative, such as the existence of Athens and organized warfare nine thousand years before Solon's time. He suggests that Plato's story was likely a literary device to convey moral lessons about the triumph of virtue over vice, drawing parallels to Jonathan Swift's 'Gulliver's Travels'. The article also touches upon historical attempts to locate Atlantis, such as Olof Rudbeck's theory placing it in ancient Sweden, and dismisses these as products of uncritical imagination.

Science and the Paranormal

Psi-track - tankens spår (Psi-track - The Trace of Thought)

This article details the discovery and ongoing research into the 'psi-track' phenomenon by Swedish researchers, including Göte Andersson, Jens A. Tellefsen, and Nils-Olof Jacobson. The psi-track is described as a measurable trace left by a thought, detectable with a dowsing rod. Experiments suggest that thoughts can create these tracks, which can be followed to locate hidden objects. The research aims to explore the practical applications of this phenomenon, such as finding lost persons or objects, and its potential connection to concepts like healing and love.

Alternativmedicin vid amerikanskt universitet (Alternative Medicine at an American University)

Columbia University in the USA has established a center for the study of alternative medicine, focusing on practices like acupuncture, vitamin therapy, and biofeedback. The center also offers courses and aims to integrate complementary medicine into mainstream healthcare.

Alternativmedicinska metoder studeras (Alternative Medicine Methods Studied)

The article highlights the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding of research into alternative medicine. Projects include studies on yoga for addiction, macrobiotic diets for cancer, hypnosis for pain, and acupuncture for depression, among others. This initiative signifies a growing acceptance of alternative therapies within the scientific community.

Vänster hjärnhalva lyckligast? (Left Brain Happier?)

Research by Richard Davidson suggests that individuals with greater activity in the right frontal lobe of the brain are more affected by negative stimuli, while those with greater left frontal lobe activity experience more positive emotions. Similar findings indicate that the left hemisphere is more associated with active engagement, while the right hemisphere is linked to withdrawal.

Spirituality and World Religions

Religionernas världsparlament 1993 (Parliament of the World's Religions 1993)

Olle Hjern reports on the 1993 Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago, a centenary commemoration of the 1893 event. The parliament featured diverse religious representatives, with a strong presence from Indian religions, Buddhism, and Islam. The event emphasized interfaith dialogue, spiritual tolerance, and the universal messages of various traditions. A significant theme was environmental concern, with many religions highlighting the need for ecological stewardship. The article notes the emergence of 'Mother Earth' religions and the continued interest in ancient spiritual roots.

Sökarnyheter (Seeker News)

• This section includes various short news items:
• Porten till en ny tid (The Gateway to a New Era): A seminar organized by Föreningen PAN's vänner discussed the '90s as a new era, with speakers covering topics from economics to new politics.
• Cirklar i säden på 1600-talet (Circles in the Grain in the 1600s): An English pamphlet from 1678 describes crop circles appearing in a farmer's oat field, attributed to a 'mowing devil'.
• Hög intelligens och låg moral (High Intelligence and Low Morality): A German professor notes a disconnect between high intellect and low morality in modern humans, leading to indifference towards animal welfare.
• Klassisk musik gör oss intelligentare! (Classical Music Makes Us More Intelligent!): A study suggests that listening to Mozart can temporarily boost intelligence quotient scores.
• Lindra och ta bort smärta och sjukdomar (Soothe and Remove Pain and Illness): An advertisement for purple energy plates.
• Läk dig själv så förändras omvärlden (Heal Yourself, the World Changes): Book reviews for "Förvandlingens väg" by Shakti Gawain and "Läkande ord" by Larry Dossey.
• Ljudterapi (Sound Therapy): A book review for "Ljudterapi" by Olivea Dewhurst-Maddock.
• Djurplågeri för nöjes skull (Animal Cruelty for Fun): Statistics on animal suffering from hunting are presented, with a critique of hunting as a primitive impulse.
• Naturandar & Healing (Nature Spirits & Healing): An advertisement for a healing and nature spirit communication course.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, as exemplified by the articles on skepticism and the debunking of Atlantis. There is a strong interest in alternative spirituality, parapsychology, and holistic health practices, alongside a critical examination of claims. The publication also engages with contemporary social and environmental issues, reflecting a broad interest in personal and societal transformation. The editorial stance appears to favor open-mindedness combined with a rigorous, skeptical approach to understanding the world.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: No. 3
Volume: 31
Date: August 1994
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: 250:- (Annual subscription)

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life questions, delves into the theme of skepticism, exploring its historical and modern dimensions. The cover prominently features the headline "Skepticismen" and an image of a thoughtful man, likely representing the contemplative aspect of the theme.

Contents Overview

The issue features a diverse range of articles, including:

• Hans Hof: Discusses meditation, particularly Zen meditation, and its potential to foster a different experience of existence beyond the self.
• Eva Sanner: An article titled "Hans Hof."
• Åsa Freij: "Att starta eget" (Starting your own business).
• SM (Sven Magnusson): "Materialismen är död" (Materialism is dead).
• Lars-Eric Uneståhl: "Hypnos" (Hypnosis).
• Lars Holmgren: Explores "Friedrich Nietzsche."
• Eva Jagrell: Presents "Dikter" (Poems).
• SM (Sven Magnusson): "Min sökarvandring" (My seeker's journey).
• Lars Gahrn: Discusses "Platons Atlantis" (Plato's Atlantis), arguing it is merely a myth.
• Paul Kurtz / SM (Sven Magnusson): "Skeptisk prövning" (Skeptical examination), featuring the American philosopher Paul Kurtz.
• Sökarnyheter: (Seeker news).
• Olle Hjern: "Religionernas världsparlament" (The Parliament of World Religions).
• Bokfloden: (Book reviews).
• Elisabet Broomé m fl: "Tankens spår" (Traces of thought).
• Nils-Olof Jacobson: "Fenomenet slagrutan" (The phenomenon of the dowsing rod).

Skepticism: The Main Theme

The central article, "Skepticismen," is introduced by editor Sven Magnusson. He traces the roots of skepticism back to ancient Greek philosophers like Pyrrhon, Protagoras, Karneades, and Sextos Empeirikos, and mentions modern figures such as Montaigne and Hume. Magnusson highlights the value of methodological skepticism in modern science, where acceptance requires strong evidence.

He introduces the thoughts of American philosopher Paul Kurtz, chairman of the organization CSICOP, on skepticism. Magnusson finds Kurtz's ideas largely agreeable but critiques the application by CSICOP skeptics. He suggests that CSICOP selectively filters information about paranormal phenomena, UFO reports, and astrology to support their predetermined conclusions. Magnusson argues that a more open approach to available information would present a different reality.

Magnusson posits that skeptics are often not as skeptical as they believe, but rather "prejudicedly negative." He praises Kurtz's call for the faithful to examine the reasons and grounds for their beliefs. Magnusson's personal ideal attitude is a combination of openness and critical questioning.

Other Featured Articles

• Meditation: Hans Hof, a priest with a strong interest in meditation, shares his daily practice and belief that Zen meditation can make individuals receptive to a different existential experience, transcending the concept of the self as a fixed entity.
• Nietzsche: Lars Holmgren contributes an article on the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche.
• Atlantis: Lars Gahrn, a film doctor and antiquarian at Mölndals museer, contends that Plato's Atlantis is purely a saga.
• Dowsing: Nils-Olof Jacobson examines the phenomenon of the dowsing rod.
• Parliament of World Religions: Olle Hjern reports on this event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sökaren continues its tradition of exploring diverse philosophical, spiritual, and psychological topics. The editorial stance, as articulated by Sven Magnusson, favors a balanced approach that embraces both openness to new ideas and rigorous critical examination. While acknowledging the importance of skepticism, particularly in scientific contexts, the magazine seems to encourage a nuanced perspective that avoids dogmatic negativity and remains open to phenomena that may not fit conventional scientific paradigms. The inclusion of articles on meditation, religion, and historical/mythical concepts alongside skepticism suggests an editorial interest in bridging different ways of understanding reality.