Sokaren - 1996 No 04

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue Date: August 1996
Volume: 33, Issue 4
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: 50:- incl. VAT

Sökaren is a Swedish magazine for life questions, aiming to foster open-minded yet critical inquiry. This issue, dated August 1996, features a diverse range of articles exploring spirituality, consciousness, parapsychology, and ethics.

Key Articles and Features

James Redfield's Insights

The issue highlights James Redfield, author of "The Celestine Prophecy" and "The Ninth Insight." His work is described as a cult favorite for many seeking new age perspectives. A study guide, "The Personal Guide," co-authored with Carol Adrienne, further explores his ideas, presenting a grand vision of a new era. Redfield's insights focus on synchronicities, the interconnectedness of life, and the idea that life is energy, not just matter. The magazine summarizes the first nine insights from Redfield's work, emphasizing the concept of meaningful coincidences, the awakening to a new worldview, the energetic nature of the universe, the interconnectedness of all beings, the mystical experience of unity, the process of spiritual evolution, the role of intuition and dreams, the importance of interpersonal relationships, and the vision of a future culture characterized by higher vibrations.

Albert Schweitzer – A Genius in Humanity

Martin Lönnebo writes about Albert Schweitzer, portraying him as an ethical genius who revered life as an ethical norm. Schweitzer's philosophy is rooted in the principle that "life wants to live, surrounded by life, which also wants to live." His ethical framework emphasizes preserving and protecting life, leading it to its highest value, while evil is defined as destroying, harming, or hindering life's development. Schweitzer's approach is described as intuitive and mystical, advocating for compassion, responsibility, and a sense of equality for all living beings. He believed in minimizing harm and suffering, striving for the maximum spiritual life, and saw the universe as a manifestation of energy and intelligence.

UFO Abductions: A Deep and Disturbing Mystery

This section features an article by Åsa Freij on Professor John E. Mack's research into UFO abductions. Mack, a Harvard professor of psychiatry, has interviewed seventy-six individuals who claim to have been abducted by extraterrestrial beings and subjected to medical procedures. Mack's conclusion, that these individuals are recounting real events, is presented as surprising and challenging. The article discusses the use of hypnosis to recover repressed memories, the similarities in abduction narratives, and the potential implications of these encounters, including the possibility that aliens are warning humanity about its destructive path or seeking to cross-breed with humans. Mack suggests that these beings may be less physical and emotional than humans, and that abductees often experience profound personal growth and a broadened consciousness.

Instrumental Transcommunication (ITK)

Karin Schnittger interviews Professor Ernst Senkowski, a leading expert in ITK. ITK is defined as the method of communicating with the 'spirit world' or life after death using electronic devices. Senkowski discusses the history of ITK, starting with Friedrich Jürgenson's discovery of voices on tape. He presents cases where verifiable details have been communicated from deceased individuals, suggesting a high probability of survival after death. Senkowski also touches upon the challenges of scientific proof in this field, arguing that a materialistic worldview inherently excludes the possibility of survival, thus making proof impossible. He believes that ITK offers strong support for the conscious survival of death.

The Dangers of Eastern Methods

Marja Savola writes about the potential dangers of Eastern methods, particularly Kundalini yoga, which has been featured on Swedish television as relaxation exercises. Savola warns that these practices, often referred to as 'shorter paths to God,' can be risky if not undertaken with proper knowledge and guidance. The activation of Kundalini energy, described as 'the highest fire,' can be harmful if the energy centers (chakras) are not purified, potentially leading to pain, fear, depression, and even death. The article contrasts this with the 'path of love' advocated by the Danish philosopher Martinus, which emphasizes moral and human development as the true way to higher consciousness.

The Power of Thought

Åsa Freij reports on Åke Lindgren's research and experiences concerning the power of thought. Lindgren, a former engineer, claims that the power of thought is nearly limitless and can be accessed through conscious effort and initiation. He discusses his past work in 'de-disturbing' homes from geopathic stress and electromagnetic fields, and now focuses on a 'cosmic level' of work. Lindgren posits that thought is a bridge to a divine source of 'love-force' and that by purifying the ego, one can access this power. He also touches upon concepts like 'hartman lines' and 'curry lines,' and the influence of extraterrestrial radiation. Lindgren's work challenges materialistic science, suggesting that the universe is fundamentally mental and that thought can manifest physical reality.

CANHELP: Creating a New Worldview

This section introduces CANHELP (Council for the Advancement of a New Human Ethic Life Paradigm), an organization dedicated to promoting a new worldview based on insight rather than mere knowledge. CANHELP aims to reform scientific research, emphasizing a holistic approach that values life and consciousness. They advocate for a shift away from a purely materialistic understanding of reality, which they argue has led to environmental destruction and a loss of meaning. CANHELP proposes an 'Alfa-Omega model' to understand the creation process and supports theories that suggest a non-material basis for reality, such as those by Ilya Prigogine, James Lovelock, Rupert Sheldrake, and Martinus. The organization seeks to spread information through various means, including TV films and educational materials, and invites membership and support.

Spontaneous Illumination

This short piece recounts the experience of psychotherapist Donna Hale, who, after intense studying, had a spontaneous experience of profound connection with the divine, characterized by clarity, peace, and a sense of unity with all things. This experience, which lasted about thirty minutes, left her with a lasting sense of having touched the very structure of consciousness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, there is a recurring theme of seeking deeper meaning and understanding beyond conventional materialistic paradigms. The magazine promotes a spiritual and consciousness-oriented perspective, encouraging critical inquiry into phenomena such as UFOs, parapsychology, and altered states of consciousness. The editorial stance appears to be one of openness to unconventional ideas and a belief in the potential for human spiritual evolution, while also cautioning against potentially harmful shortcuts or misinterpretations of spiritual practices. There is a strong emphasis on the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of ethical living. The magazine seems to advocate for a holistic approach to science and life, integrating spiritual insights with empirical observation.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1996 and identified as issue number 4, focuses heavily on the concept of the 'experimenter effect' in parapsychology, alongside discussions on UFO phenomena and various spiritual and philosophical perspectives.

The Experimenter Effect: A Detailed Exploration

The lead article, "Försöksledareffekten: en intressant och viktig hypotes" (The Experimenter Effect: An Interesting and Important Hypothesis), delves into the controversial idea that the experimenter's own psychology can significantly influence the outcome of parapsychological experiments. The article begins by referencing an opinion piece by Björn Fjæstad, editor of the popular science magazine Forskning och Framsteg, who is critical of what he terms 'pseudoscience' and dismisses the experimenter effect as a mere excuse for failed experiments.

However, the magazine argues that there are strong reasons to believe in the experimenter effect, distinguishing it from Fjæstad's notion of 'negative vibrations'. Instead, it suggests a mental influence, operating on an unconscious level, from the experimenter to the subject.

Adrian Parker, a psychologist and parapsychologist, is quoted as stating that the experimenter effect is an established concept in parapsychology. He notes that some experimenters consistently achieve positive results while others do not, suggesting this may be due to the experimenter's own psychic abilities or their interaction with participants' expectations, motivation, and state of mind.

D. Scott Rogo, an author and parapsychologist, is presented as a proponent of the experimenter effect. He contrasts Susan Blackmore, a skeptic who has consistently failed to obtain positive results, with other parapsychologists who have found evidence for psi phenomena. Rogo posits two explanations for Blackmore's results: either paranormal phenomena do not exist, or something within Blackmore hinders positive outcomes. He leans towards the latter, suggesting that certain individuals may be better suited to elicit psi phenomena from subjects.

The article traces the origin of the experimenter effect to early researchers at Duke University who noticed differences in their success rates compared to J. B. Rhine. Rhine's charismatic approach and ability to create an atmosphere of excitement are highlighted as potential factors.

Further evidence is presented through classic demonstrations, such as one involving Margaret Price and J. G. Pratt at Duke University, where Price consistently achieved positive results while Pratt failed, even when they swapped roles. Similar findings are reported from experiments by Karlis Osis and Douglas Dean in New York, where one researcher's groups performed significantly better than the other's.

Gertrude Schmeidler's research in 1979 is mentioned, which found that successful parapsychologists were perceived by students as friendlier, more sympathetic, and more enthusiastic than less successful ones. Carl Sargent's subsequent research in England corroborated these findings, suggesting successful experimenters were less reserved, serious, introverted, and neurotic.

Interestingly, the article notes that Susan Blackmore, despite her skeptical stance, possesses personality traits that, according to Sargent's analysis, are common among less successful parapsychological experimenters. Rogo speculates whether Blackmore's own (negative) psi abilities might unconsciously block her subjects' psi abilities.

Examples of potential negative influence from experimenters are given: John Beloff's presence reportedly caused a subject (Mary) to lose her psi ability, and Ena Twigg found it impossible to demonstrate psi in Beloff's presence. The experiment by West and Fisk, where subjects performed better on envelopes handled by Fisk than by West, is also cited as evidence of an experimenter's negative influence.

The article concludes that while skeptics may deny the experimenter effect to maintain their own position, the evidence suggests it is a significant factor in parapsychological research.

Other Articles and Sections

Page 2: Psi-debatt (Psi Debate)

This section features responses from Rolf Ejvegård and Adrian Parker to an article by Björn Fjæstad. Ejvegård criticizes Fjæstad's views on pseudoscience and the use of James Randi as an authority, arguing that the experimenter effect is a general scientific problem, not just within parapsychology. Parker reiterates that the experimenter effect is established in psychology and parapsychology, citing studies like Honorton's and his own research with ganzfeld techniques, which also showed variations in results based on the experimenter.

Page 3: Andliga ledares visdom (Wisdom of Spiritual Leaders)

This page presents quotes and short profiles of spiritual leaders such as Gerald G. Jampolsky, Wayne Dyer, Dalai Lama, Lynn Andrews, Matthew Fox, Jean Shinoda Bolen, Brooke Medicine Eagle, and Mother Teresa, focusing on themes of love, compassion, spirituality, and connection to the divine.

Page 4: Bokfloden (Book Reviews)

Several book reviews are featured:

• "Buddhan och vägen till visdom" (The Buddha and the Path to Wisdom) by Jean Boisselier, praised for its objective and non-Western approach to Buddhism.
• "Många liv, många mästare" (Many Lives, Many Masters) by Brian L. Weiss, which discusses reincarnation therapy. The reviewer, SM, expresses skepticism about Weiss's conclusions, suggesting that hypnotic phenomena can explain the reported memories without necessarily proving reincarnation.
• "En ny medvetenhet i en ny tid" (A New Consciousness in a New Era) by Alexander J. Markus, described as occult and lacking scientific backing.
• "Gryningens tid" (Time of Dawn) by Barbara Marciniak, a 'channeled' book from Pleiadians, reviewed with skepticism regarding channeling.
• "Välbehag för dig och mig" (Well-being for You and Me) by Jennifer Louden, a self-help book on relationships.
• "Den kristna kyrkan" (The Christian Church) by Beskow, Hellström, and Nilsson, a historical overview of the church, noted for its objective tone but also for omitting certain controversial aspects.

Page 5: Läsarforum (Reader Forum)

This section includes letters from readers:

• A letter from Barbro Melander defending Theosophy as a spiritual movement rather than a religion.
• A letter from Lennart Lidfors humorously introducing the 'LUR effect' (Lidfors ultimate retrocognition effect), suggesting that predictions published in advance are less likely to come true.
• A discussion on spiritism/spiritualism, referencing a textbook definition.
• A letter from Per Hornberg questioning Lennart Kjellson's claims about UFO detection, referencing a DN article about asteroids.

Page 6: Sökarnyheter (Seeker News)

This page contains various short news items and quotes:

• A brief mention of Uri Geller and his presence on the internet.
• A report on suicide sects, referencing the 'Solar Temple' sect.
• A discussion on dowsing research by Nils-Axel Mörner, who faced criticism from his university.
• Statistics on vegetarianism in Sweden.
• A piece on Margo Anand's courses on 'love and ecstasy' and Tantra.
• A critique of Rauni-Leena Luukanen's claims by Ole Jonny Brænne, questioning her UFO conference participation and 'channeled' messages.
• A note about copyright on the Swedish Bible translation.
• A mention of a New Age course offered at Lund University.
• Various quotes from notable figures.

Page 7: Sökarnyheter (Seeker News) & Bokfloden (Book Reviews)

• A report by Roger K. Leir about alleged alien implants removed from patients, with accompanying photos.
• Advertisements for books and courses.

Page 8: Science of Mind & Konsten att köra bil (The Art of Driving)

• An article titled "Glädjeämnen i vardagen" (Everyday Joys) by Ernest Holmes, emphasizing finding happiness within and appreciating simple things.
• An essay on "Konsten att köra bil" (The Art of Driving) by Alf Erling Sjöberg, using driving as a metaphor for ethical behavior and societal interaction.
• An "Infoteket" section with various short notices on health, environment, and alternative practices.
• A philosophical piece titled "Livskärlek" (Love of Life) by Ralph Lundsten, encouraging self-love, music, nature, and the giving of love.

Page 9: Nytt nyandligt center i Stockholm (New Spiritual Center in Stockholm)

An article introducing "Idun Center," a new spiritual hub in Stockholm offering various activities like drum journeys, meditation, workshops, and a café.

• A critique of the Nationalencyklopedin for omitting entries on animal rights organizations and other relevant topics.
• A discussion on the "Aquarian Age" and the concept of a "new paradigm" in science and consciousness.

Page 10: Vattumannens tidsålder (The Age of Aquarius)

An article exploring the astrological concept of the Age of Aquarius, its implications for human consciousness, global awareness, and societal transformation.

• A section on "Djur och människor" (Animals and Humans), discussing the ethical treatment of animals and the similarities between human and animal consciousness, citing researchers like David O. Wiebers and Albert Einstein.
• A section on "Gåvor till stödfonden" (Donations to the Support Fund).
• A "Forskararbete" (Research Work) section soliciting personal experiences with Eastern methods or therapies.
• Book reviews from Nova Förlag.
• Information on Tarot courses and a Tibetan lama's course on Lucid Dreaming.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of parapsychology, the paranormal, spirituality, and alternative viewpoints on science and consciousness. There's a clear editorial stance in favor of investigating these topics with an open mind, often challenging mainstream scientific skepticism. The magazine provides platforms for researchers and thinkers who explore phenomena that fall outside conventional scientific paradigms, while also including critical perspectives and book reviews that offer a balanced view. The emphasis on personal experience, spiritual growth, and the exploration of consciousness is a recurring thread throughout the issue.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 40
Date: Undetermined
Publisher: Undetermined
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökaren magazine, identified as issue number 40, contains several editorial pieces and a calendar of upcoming events. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in spirituality, New Age topics, and alternative lifestyles.

Editor's Notes

On Poetry

The editor addresses the many Swedish readers who write poetry. While appreciating these personal expressions of thought, philosophy, or nature observations, the editor notes that most of these poems are not suitable for wider publication. Some are kept in a "maybe someday" pile, while others are returned with polite rejections. The editor acknowledges that this can be disappointing for the writers but states that only the poems deemed best are published.

On Letters

Letters with constructive feedback are generally appreciated but rarely published. Those with interesting content are sometimes featured in the "Läsarforum" (Reader Forum). Letters that are rude or offensive are ignored.

On Advertisements

The editor compares Sökaren's advertising situation to that of other publications like Pentagram, Alphaomega, and Ljusåret, which have higher ad prices and more advertisers. Free advertising papers also have no trouble attracting ads. The editor questions whether businesses targeting the New Age market believe Sökaren's readers are more discerning, critical, and hesitant compared to readers of other publications. However, the editor notes that ads in Sökaren have reportedly yielded good results, attributing this to a readership of many serious seekers. The average reader is 48 years old with a high education level, suggesting good purchasing power.

On Subscribers

Sökaren retains its subscribers well, with only about 20 percent leaving each year. The main challenge is acquiring new readers. Efforts to attract the target audience through ads in publications like Kosmiskt & Personligt, Pentagram, and Alphaomega, even with free trial offers, have yielded many responses but few subscribers, suggesting these readers seek something different from what Sökaren offers. The magazine acknowledges its intelligent and dedicated readership and aims not to disappoint them. The editor notes that while the sold circulation has decreased from over 3,000 to just under 2,000 in the last decade, this is likely due to increased competition from books, spiritual centers, courses, and other magazines in the same field.

On Vegetarianism

The issue presents several arguments for adopting a lacto-vegetarian diet:

• Aesthetic Reasons: The editor finds it unappetizing to eat parts of dead animals, preferring the natural appeal and vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables.
• Ethical Reasons: The editor wishes to avoid contributing to the suffering of animals in factory farms or through hunting.
• Health Reasons: Vegetarian diets are considered healthy, while meat consumption can lead to poor health. Many illnesses have reportedly been cured by vegetarian diets. Biologically, humans are considered natural vegetarians, lacking predatory instincts, teeth, and claws, and possessing a longer digestive tract than carnivores.

Calendar Tips (KALENDERTIPS)

The calendar section lists various events, primarily in Sweden, related to spirituality, personal development, and New Age interests:

• August 5, 7:00 PM, Gaia: Marianne Lidfors will discuss her experiences with spiritual guides and their desire for contact. (Cost: 75 SEK)
• August 12, 7:00 PM, Pan: Göran Grip will share how his near-death experience changed his outlook on life. (Cost: 80 SEK)
• August 14, 7:00 PM, Gaia: Evert Sundien, a doctor and priest, will speak about Zen meditation as a path to self-awareness. (Cost: 65 SEK)
• August 14, 7:00 PM, Pan: Arne Groth will demonstrate dowsing and conduct experiments. (Cost: 70 SEK)
• August 17, Solviken: A yoga and meditation course, including meals. (Cost: 600 SEK) - Led by Gunnel Derning-Ghosh.
• August 19, 7:00 PM, Gaia: Psychologist and psychotherapist Thomas Silfving will lecture on C.G. Jung's view of humanity. (Cost: 75 SEK)
• August 21, 7:00 PM, Gaia: Lotten Odh will talk about dolphins as playmates and helpers. (Cost: 65 SEK)
• August 27, 7:00 PM, Gaia: Priest Må Oftedal will address how literal interpretations of biblical creation stories have led to environmental destruction and exploitation. (Cost: 65 SEK)
• August 29, 7:00 PM, Gaia: Birgitta Onsell will discuss "Gud-innan" (Goddess-mother), her identity, disappearance, and why she became forbidden. (Cost: 65 SEK)
• August 30 - September 1, Wäxt-huset, Väddö: "Love That Touches" workshop focusing on how different forms of touch affect the body and soul, and the significance of touch in relationships. Led by Rainer Kägö. (Cost: 900 SEK, room and board: 700 SEK)
• September 2, 7:00 PM, Pan: Bertil Kuhlemann will lead a mini-workshop on the nine insights and the tenth. (Cost: 70 SEK)
• September 6-8, Wäxthuset, Väddö: Alternative economics course with Marianne Påsse and Eva Stenius, exploring new perspectives on economics, including interest-free economy. (Cost: 900 SEK, room and board: 700 SEK)

Contact information is provided for Gaia Center, PANs Vänner, Solviken, and Wäxthuset.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on topics related to spirituality, personal growth, alternative health practices (like vegetarianism and yoga), and psychological exploration, often within a New Age framework. The editorial stance appears to be one of thoughtful engagement with readers, promoting a critical yet open-minded approach to esoteric and philosophical subjects. There is a clear emphasis on the intellectual and spiritual development of its readership, as evidenced by the selection of articles and the types of events promoted in the calendar.