Sokaren - 2001 No 04

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 4, 2001, årgång 38
Date: August 2001
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- inkl moms

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine for life questions, features a diverse range of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, spirituality, philosophy, and cultural insights.

Psi-spåret: Reportage

The main feature, 'Psi-spåret' (The Psi-Track), by Viveka Lindgren with photos by Bela Unger, investigates the concept of measurable thought trails. Göte Andersson discovered this phenomenon in 1987, noticing his dowsing rod reacting along a line between himself and a focused object. Amateur tests by Sten and Britta Deurell are described, where Britta concentrates on an object (like a lost bowl or ring) and Sten uses dowsing rods to locate it. The article explains that this 'psi-track' is an energetic connection created by thought. Britta Deurell also shares her experiences with dowsing, including finding water veins and identifying harmful earth radiation points in homes, which she linked to health issues like cancer. The Deurells are part of 'Nätverket för Gränsöverskridande Vetenskap' (Network for Transcending Science), which publishes the journal 'Gränsöverskridaren'. The article touches upon the idea that subtle energies surround all beings and that auras can be extended.

Skeptikerna har inte rätt

This section features an opinion piece by the editor, discussing a critique of Dan Larhammar, chairman of the Swedish Skeptics Society, regarding his comments on Lena Kristina Tuulse. The editor engages in a debate with Larhammar about the nature of the universe, arguing for a planned, intelligent design rather than random evolution. The piece also touches upon the nature of skepticism and the openness to new ideas, referencing Bertrand Russell's views. It highlights that Sökaren encourages re-evaluation and discussion, even if not all content aligns with the editor's personal views.

Krönika by Eskil Svensson

Eskil Svensson's column, 'Vem är gammal?' (Who is old?), reflects on the perception of age and the societal cult of youth. He argues that essential human qualities remain constant throughout life, with age deepening understanding. Svensson criticizes the emphasis on youth in Western society, where experience and judgment are often overlooked. He also discusses the importance of physical health, emphasizing personal responsibility for daily habits and the interconnectedness of body and soul.

The Great Nest of Being & Spirituality

Kerstin Stina Carlsson's article, 'Det här med andlighet' (This about spirituality), explores the concept of spirituality and its various interpretations. She references Ken Wilber's model of the 'Great Nest of Being,' which categorizes knowledge systems from physics to mysticism, suggesting that true spirituality encompasses all levels. Carlsson argues that modern society's focus on materialism has led to a loss of spiritual connection. The article also includes perspectives from Dana Zohar and Ian Marshall on 'Spiritual Intelligence' (SQ), contrasting it with IQ and EQ, and highlighting the importance of meaning and value in life.

Saraswati – kunskapens och kulturens gudsaspekt

Bertil Falk's article, 'Saraswati – kunskapens och kulturens gudsaspekt' (Saraswati – the aspect of knowledge and culture of the gods), delves into the Hindu goddess Saraswati. He explains that in Hinduism, various deities are seen as aspects of a single divine reality. Saraswati, originally a river goddess, is now revered as the deity of speech, language, music, arts, and culture. The article traces her presence in Vedic texts and her association with learning, and discusses her iconography, often depicted with a vina (string instrument) and a manuscript.

Min tro: A Course in Miracles

Hans-Jörgen Gerloff writes about 'A Course in Miracles,' a spiritual teaching that aims to shift perception from fear to love. He describes it as a synthesis of Eastern and Western philosophies, emphasizing forgiveness, unity, and the transformative power of miracles as changes in perspective. The course is presented as a path to inner peace and harmony, not a religion, and has gained a global following.

Vedanta

This section includes a brief overview of Vedanta philosophy, citing Daniel Edberg and Nisargadatta Maharaj. Vedanta posits that only consciousness (Brahman) is truly real, and the individual self ('I am') is identical to this universal consciousness. The material world is seen as an illusion or a manifestation of this consciousness. The text highlights the concept of 'Atman' (the true self) being timeless and beyond birth and death, and that realizing this unity is the ultimate goal.

Jagets gåta

This section compiles quotes from previous issues of Sökaren, featuring thinkers like Schopenhauer, Alf Ahlberg on CG Jung, Leo Wikman on Maharishi Ramana, and others, all touching upon the nature of the self, consciousness, and the interconnectedness of existence.

Varia

This section contains several shorter pieces:

• Läkartidningens vidsynthet: A note on an article in Läkartidningen discussing research into healing and therapeutic touch, acknowledging the growing interest and ongoing studies.
• Tranströmers lustigheter: A critical commentary on the poetry of Tomas Tranströmer, questioning his acclaimed status and describing his work as superficial.
• UFO-observationer: A summary of UFO sightings reported in literature, detailing common characteristics of observed craft and occupants, referencing Richard Hall's book 'The UFO Evidence'.
• Frågor och svar om det paranormala: Presents statistics from surveys on beliefs in the paranormal, reincarnation, and extraterrestrial life in the US and Sweden.
• Tidsresenärer?: Discusses the theory that UFO occupants might be time travelers from the future, based on their human-like appearance and behavior.
• Kurt Almqvist: An obituary for Kurt Almqvist, a philosopher and author known for his writings on spirituality and returning to the sources of religious traditions.
• Snart slut på köttätande?: Notes growing awareness and concern about the ethical implications of meat consumption, citing public figures.
• Det sanna, odödliga jaget: A reflection on Ernest Holmes' concept of the universal Mind as the basis of all existence.
• David Icke och reptilerna: Briefly mentions David Icke's controversial theories about reptilian aliens controlling the world.
• Medicineländet: An excerpt from an editorial in 'Vegetar' magazine questioning the effectiveness and cost of modern medicine in treating illnesses.

En kväll i juni

Gulli Bergvall shares a personal reflection on an experience of profound, almost overwhelming, bliss and connection with nature during a summer evening.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, consciousness, the nature of reality, and the human search for meaning. It presents a wide spectrum of views, from scientific and skeptical perspectives to mystical and philosophical insights. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging exploration of diverse ideas and phenomena, even those considered unconventional or paranormal, while also engaging with critical viewpoints. There is a recurring emphasis on inner experience, self-awareness, and the interconnectedness of all things, often drawing from Eastern philosophies and esoteric traditions. The magazine also engages with contemporary issues such as environmentalism and ethical consumption.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 4/2001, is a Swedish publication focusing on UFO phenomena, spirituality, and critical examination of various beliefs and scientific claims. The cover headline, "Talar Bibeln om djurens rätt?" (Does the Bible speak of animal rights?), by Jan Erik Sigdell, sets a tone of critical inquiry.

Articles and Content

The Bible and Animal Rights Jan Erik Sigdell's article explores biblical texts to determine if they address animal rights. He notes that while the Bible mentions animal sacrifices and dietary laws, it offers little on the intrinsic value or rights of animals. Sigdell highlights passages from Genesis that suggest humans were given plants for food, not animals, and questions the shift after the flood. He also points out the lack of explicit mention of animal rights in the New Testament and Jesus' teachings, suggesting that the commandment "You shall not kill" could be interpreted more broadly.

UFO Phenomena and Research Dan Larhammar, professor of molecular cell biology and chairman of the skeptical organization Vetenskap och Folkbildning, criticizes the uncritical approach to UFO phenomena. He addresses claims about 'living food' and refined sugar, refuting some of the assertions made by a 'health lady'. Larhammar also comments on the lack of scientific rigor in some UFO research, particularly regarding claims of alien abductions and implants, noting that such discoveries would likely warrant Nobel Prizes if scientifically proven.

Susan Blackmore's article on near-death experiences (NDEs) is discussed. While acknowledging the reality of these experiences, Blackmore suggests they might be explained by physiological factors like endorphins, oxygen deprivation, or temporal lobe stimulation, rather than supernatural causes. However, the article also notes that some NDEs involve verifiable observations that challenge purely materialistic explanations.

Spirituality and New Age Beliefs Several book reviews explore spiritual and New Age topics. "Empati. Att förstå andra" by Ulla Holm is reviewed for its attempt to categorize empathy. "Rensa i själen" by Jane Scrivner offers a 30-day self-improvement course. "Empatins makt" by Arthur Ciaramicoli and Katherine Ketcham discusses empathy and relationships. Julian Sleigh's "Vänner och älskare" (Friends and Lovers) offers advice on friendship and love, drawing from Rudolf Steiner's teachings.

Alf Åberg's "Kvinnor i Nya Sverige" (Women in New Sweden) is reviewed, focusing on the role of women in early Swedish colonization. Ebbe Schön's "De döda återvänder" (The Dead Return) examines beliefs about death and the afterlife.

"Utan Gräns" (Without Borders), a magazine for personal and spiritual development, is reviewed for its focus on mediumism and spiritualism. "Tidlös Visdom" (Timeless Wisdom), the magazine of the Theosophical Society, is discussed for its exploration of reincarnation and universal interconnectedness.

Magnus Linton's book "Veganerna, vi och djuren" (Vegans, Us and the Animals) is highlighted for its discussion of animal rights. The issue also includes a review of "Alphaomega," a magazine described as a typical 'New Age' publication.

Critical Thinking and Science Bertrand Russell's philosophy of critical openness is discussed, emphasizing the importance of revising conclusions in light of new evidence. The article contrasts this with dogmatic skepticism and uncritical acceptance of ideas. The debate between Peter Staudenmaier and Göran Fant regarding anthroposophy in the magazine "Folkvett" is also presented, highlighting the challenges of objective discourse.

Other Topics

The issue includes a section on music reviews, featuring CDs of Buddhist chants, African drumming, and 'New Age' relaxation music. There is also an article on "Remote Viewing" (RV) and its potential applications, as well as a discussion on the scientific explanation of near-death experiences, referencing the work of researchers like Susan Blackmore and Abraham Maslow.

An article titled "Healing botar möss" (Healing Cures Mice) reports on experiments suggesting that a healing technique can be effective in treating cancer in laboratory mice, stimulating the immune system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and evidence-based inquiry, while also exploring spiritual, paranormal, and alternative health topics. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between scientifically verifiable phenomena and beliefs or pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance appears to encourage open-mindedness but within a framework of rational skepticism. The magazine provides a platform for diverse viewpoints, including those that challenge mainstream scientific paradigms, but also includes critical perspectives on such claims.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 4/2001
Date: April 2001
Content Type: Health Advice

Health Advice (Hälsoråd)

This section of Sökaren magazine provides a comprehensive list of 16 health recommendations aimed at promoting well-being.

Dietary Recommendations:

1. Varied Vegetarian Diet: The primary recommendation is to eat a varied vegetarian diet, advising against meat, fish, and eggs. While acknowledging that many modern vegetables may not be optimally grown, it suggests supplementing with small amounts of milk products. Milk is noted as a complete nutrient but not naturally intended for adult humans, so its consumption should be moderate.
2. Raw Foods and Whole Grains: Eating plenty of raw foods, if tolerated, is encouraged as nature's way of preparing food. Occasionally, a warm vegetarian dish is acceptable. The consumption of whole grain bread is advised, while fatty foods should be avoided. The text contrasts the appeal of vegetables with the less appealing nature of animal products, highlighting the suffering caused by the meat industry, including animal factories, slaughter, transport, and hunting. It argues for animal rights, including the freedom to move in sufficient areas and live natural lives.
3. Naturally Grown Produce: It is recommended to seek out naturally grown vegetables, produced without chemicals.
4. Avoid Industrial Sugar: Caution is advised regarding industrial sugar, described as a highly refined artificial product that the body struggles to process. The human body is adapted to assimilate substances found in its natural environment, and refined white sugar, which has been manipulated by humans, is considered dangerous.

Lifestyle and Habits:

5. Moderation and Weight Management: Eat in moderation and maintain a weight that is not excessively high.
6. Abstinence from Harmful Substances: Do not use tobacco, and certainly not any form of narcotics.
7. Moderate Coffee Consumption: Be moderate with coffee intake.
8. Caution with Alcohol: Be very cautious with alcohol.
9. Daily Motion: Exercise daily through gymnastics, walking, cycling, swimming, or sports. Simple exercises at home or work are sufficient to keep the body in motion, as it is designed for a life of movement and requires it to function well.
10. Dietary Supplements: Consider trying dietary supplements.
11. Inner Well-being: Ensure inner well-being; feeling content with life is a positive health factor. Having an enjoyable and stimulating hobby is also recommended.
12. Positive Social Interaction: Maintain a positive attitude towards fellow human beings, recognizing that they, like oneself, do their best within their inherited and environmental circumstances.
13. Fresh Air and Sunlight: Ensure exposure to fresh air and moderate sunlight.
14. Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness of the body, clothing, and living space.
15. Dental Health: For good dental health, brush and floss teeth after every meal.
16. Personal Experimentation: Since what constitutes good health is partly individual, experiment to find what works best for you.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance strongly advocates for a natural, plant-based lifestyle, emphasizing whole foods, minimal processing, and avoidance of artificial substances. There is a clear ethical concern for animal welfare, linking the meat industry to suffering. The advice promotes a holistic approach to health, encompassing physical activity, mental well-being, social connection, and environmental factors like fresh air and sunlight. The magazine encourages personal responsibility and self-discovery in health matters, while cautioning against common modern habits like excessive sugar, tobacco, and alcohol consumption.