Sokaren - 2006 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 2, 2006 (Volume 43)
Date: 2006
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- incl. VAT

This issue of "Sökaren", a Swedish magazine for life questions, focuses on the recipients of the 2005 Right Livelihood Award, often called the 'Alternative Nobel Prize'. It also features articles discussing the debate between evolution and intelligent design, parapsychology, and the legacy of influential individuals.

Right Livelihood Award 2005

The cover story highlights the recipients of the 2005 Right Livelihood Award: Tony Clarke, Maude Barlow, Roy Sesana (representing the People of the Kalahari), and Irene Fernandez. Francisco Toledo received an honorary award. The award, established in 1980 by Jakob von Uexkull, is presented to those working to make life easier and better for humanity, with recipients deemed to have as great significance as Nobel laureates.

Jakob von Uexkull, the founder, delivered a speech emphasizing the current generation's disregard for future generations and the urgent need for global cooperation to avert social and environmental collapse. He warned against excessive consumption and highlighted the critical water situation in China and globally, where 40% of the population may face water scarcity within 15 years. He stressed that efforts to save the planet are not too expensive, but rather, not acting is unaffordable.

Irene Fernandez (Malaysia)

Irene Fernandez was recognized for her work combating the exploitation and abuse of migrant workers in Malaysia. She has been a vocal advocate for their rights, publishing reports on mistreatment and violence. For her efforts, she faced legal challenges, including being prosecuted 300 times. Her organization, Tenaganita (meaning 'women's power'), focuses on raising awareness and empowering people.

Francisco Toledo (Mexico)

Francisco Toledo, an artist from Mexico, received an honorary award for his contributions to art and culture preservation. He has dedicated over 20 years to supporting artists and cultural heritage, particularly in his home region of Oaxaca. He has founded libraries, museums, and institutions for art and architecture, and has also generously donated to welfare causes.

Roy Sesana (Botswana)

Roy Sesana, a Gana-Bushman from the Kalahari, was honored for his fight to protect the rights and traditional way of life of his indigenous people, who are threatened by diamond mining. Despite being an uneducated leader, he spoke eloquently about the deep connection his people have with nature and their right to their ancestral lands. He emphasized that true leadership is about service.

Maude Barlow and Tony Clarke (Canada)

Maude Barlow and Tony Clarke were recognized for their extensive work on global justice issues, particularly the water crisis. They highlighted that water is a common heritage and should not be solely accessible to those who can afford it. They stressed the need to protect freshwater resources and warned against their commercialization. They are also involved in the World Future Council, an institution dedicated to representing the interests of future generations.

Debates on Evolution and Intelligent Design

Several articles explore criticisms of Darwinian evolution. Michael Denton and Michael Behe argue that the complexity of living organisms cannot be explained by random mutations and natural selection alone, suggesting the concept of 'intelligent design'. Eva Moberg criticizes Darwinism, pointing to the lack of transitional fossils and the improbable nature of complex organs evolving through gradual steps. The articles question the purely materialistic view of evolution and suggest the possibility of an underlying intelligent force or plan.

Parapsychology and UFO Phenomena

An article discusses an experiment involving parapsychologist Jan Dalkvist and psychic Torbjörn Sassersson, where Sassersson failed to identify correct images in a controlled setting. Dalkvist, a skeptic, attributes this to the lack of genuine psychic ability. The article also touches upon the 'experimenter effect' in parapsychology, suggesting that the researcher's attitude can influence results. Another section briefly mentions UFO sightings, describing objects that emit bright foam and leave marks on the ground.

Henry Soludde and Soludden

The magazine features an obituary for Henry Soludde, the founder of Soludden, a center for holistic health and creativity. Soludde was known for his work in 'tonhealing' (tone healing) and music therapy. His property, Soludden, has been inherited by Mark Levengood, who intends to maintain its spirit of creativity and community.

Other Noteworthy Articles

• Visdomsbladet (Wisdom Leaflet): A collection of quotes and short reflections on life, spirituality, and wisdom.
• Krönika (Chronicle) by Håkan Blomqvist: A reflection on existence, the mystery of life, and the human capacity for both good and evil.
• Notiser (Notices): Brief reports on various topics, including the Hare Krishna movement, biblical diet and health, UFO sightings, and the work of parapsychological organizations.
• Humanisten (The Humanist): An article discussing the magazine 'Humanisten' and its shift towards a more aggressive stance against paranormal phenomena.
• Darwin or the Bible: A discussion comparing evolutionary theory with intelligent design.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Sökaren" consistently explores themes of spirituality, alternative perspectives on science, human rights, environmentalism, and holistic well-being. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring phenomena that challenge conventional scientific and materialistic viewpoints, while also critically examining various claims and movements. There is a recurring emphasis on the importance of individual responsibility, cooperation, and a deeper connection with nature and oneself.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 2/2006, is a Swedish magazine focusing on spirituality, alternative perspectives, and critical thinking. It features a mix of articles, book reviews, and announcements for conferences and events.

Key Articles and Themes

Reincarnation and Past Lives

The issue includes an article titled "Fall som tyder på reinkarnation" (Cases Suggesting Reincarnation), detailing how children sometimes speak of past lives. It presents the case of NK, an Indian boy born in 1982, who recalled details of a man named Babu murdered in 1978. The article notes that such children often describe violent deaths and may exhibit behaviors or preferences linked to their past lives. It also mentions that physical deformities are sometimes present in these cases.

Skepticism and Science

An article, "Akademisk fadäs" (Academic Blunder), criticizes a course on "Good and Bad Science" offered at the Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University. The criticism is directed at the use of the book "Vetenskap eller villfarelse" (Science or Delusion) and a compendium by Sven Ove Hansson, highlighting alleged inaccuracies and the authors' perceived lack of expertise. The article questions the academic validity of teaching such material.

Veganism and Animal Rights

"Mr Vegan död" (Mr Vegan Dead) reports the passing of Donald Watson, the founder of the vegan movement, at the age of 95. It mentions his inspiration from witnessing animal suffering and his role in promoting veganism. Another piece, "Vägen till Vegoland" (The Road to Vegoland), reviews a booklet from the organization Djurens Rätt (Animals' Right), which advocates for vegetarianism and provides information on animal welfare, environmental impact, and vegetarian recipes.

Spirituality and Personal Growth

Several book reviews cover themes of spirituality and personal development. "Ett nytt liv" reviews Marianne Williamson's "Förändringens gåva" (The Gift of Change), which offers ten pillars for a new life and discusses finding inner peace post-9/11. "Vegetarisk idealism på 1800-talet" (Vegetarian Idealism in the 1800s) discusses Percy Bysshe Shelley's writings on vegetarianism and animal rights. "De fem rytmerna" reviews Gabrielle Roth's book on dance as a path to self-discovery and spiritual connection. "Vakna upp!" reviews Anthony de Mello's "Se med öppet sinne" (See with an Open Mind), focusing on spiritual awakening. "Medveten närvaro" reviews Jon Kabat-Zinn's "Vart du än går är du där" (Wherever You Go, There You Are), on mindfulness and stress reduction. "Ditt sanna jag" reviews Denise Linn's "Din personliga coach för själen" (Your Personal Soul Coach), a 28-day program for self-discovery.

Dialogue and Existentialism

"En brevväxling" (A Correspondence) details a dialogue between philosopher Björn Vilson and scientist Bengt Hubendick on life questions and worldviews. "Existentialism enligt May" reviews Rollo May's "Den omätbara människan" (The Measure of Man), exploring existential psychology and therapy. The magazine also features "Brommadialogen" (Bromma Dialogue), a project focused on dialogue and existential questions, with announcements for upcoming conferences in various Swedish cities and Oslo.

Other Articles

"Att vara korrekt" discusses how individuals conform to societal and scientific paradigms. "Har Jesus inte funnits?" presents arguments questioning the historical existence of Jesus. "Böckerna Det Blå Ljuset och Diamanthjärtat" reviews books with healing and developmental energies. The "Läsarforum" section includes letters from readers discussing various topics, including the resurrection of Jesus and the nature of belief.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Sökaren consistently promotes critical thinking, questioning established paradigms, and exploring alternative spiritual and philosophical viewpoints. The magazine appears to advocate for a more holistic and compassionate approach to life, emphasizing personal growth, animal welfare, and interfaith dialogue. While it engages with scientific and skeptical perspectives, it often presents them as one viewpoint among many, encouraging readers to consider broader possibilities and personal experiences.

This issue of Brommadialogen, dated 2006, focuses on the development of an Iona-inspired Pilgrim Community network in Sweden and an alternative Midsummer celebration. The magazine is published by Brommadialogen and is in Swedish.

Pilgrimskommuniteten - ett Iona-inspirerat nätverk

The main article introduces the 'Pilgrimskommuniteten,' an Iona-inspired distributed community forming in Sweden. An 'responsibility group,' with Karin Olofsdotter and Annika Spalde acting as 'spokespersons,' has developed a document that has been circulated for feedback among Iona friends and 'veterans' in Sweden. This document is now available on the Brommadialogen website under 'Iona-nätverket'.

Iona-konferens i Uppsala 28-29 april

Brommadialogen is organizing a conference at the ecumenical Valsätrakyrkan in Uppsala on Saturday, April 29th. The event will feature Peter Millar from the Iona Community, Karin Olofsdotter (pastor at Valsätrakyrkan), Karin Lindblom, Harry Månsus, and Annika Spalde. A network meeting for those interested in joining the 'Iona network' is scheduled for Friday evening. If many are interested, the meeting will be repeated on Saturday afternoon. Both the document and a detailed conference program are available on www.brommadialogen.se. Peter Millar is described as a priest, author, and advocate for global justice, with experience working with AIDS-affected individuals in South Africa and as a leader at Iona, and is also associated with Wellspring Community in Australia, which is close to the Swedish Iona network.

Alternativ midsommar - livgivande för kropp och själ

This section announces an 'Alternative Midsummer' celebration at Sjövik folkhögskola in southern Dalarna, from June 22-25. The event promises meaningful encounters and life-giving thoughts in an alcohol-free environment. While Sjövik's traditional midsummer celebration will continue, it will be enhanced with a seminar in the spirit of Brommadialogen. Speakers include Maria Hägglund, Stefan Jämtbäck, Harry Månsus, LarsÅke W Persson, and Karin Wiborn. The seminar is organized by Brommadialogen, BroBygge, Svenska Baptistsamfundet, and Sjöviks folkhögskola. Sjövik is located 1.5 hours by train from Stockholm. The price is 820 SEK for shared double rooms, including all meals, three overnight stays, and conference costs, with an additional 90 SEK per night for single rooms. Accommodation in tents or simpler rooms costs 500 SEK per person, with discounts for children. Registration can be done by paying the fee to Sjövik folkhögskola's bankgiro (233-5875), emailing [email protected], or calling 0226-67800. More detailed pricing, registration information, and the full program will be available on www.sjovik.fhsk.se.

Ladda hem gratis - Brds Teologi för livet!

This section promotes the ability to download Brommadialogen's vision and time analysis for free from their website. Harry Månsus's teaching and overheads have been made available for personal and public use, such as for courses and lectures. This is presented as the quickest way to understand Brommadialogen's paradigm and view on spirituality. More information can be found at www.brommadialogen.se by clicking on 'Teologi för livet'.

INFORMATION och ANMÄLAN

This section provides a form for readers to register their interest in various events and information. They can sign up for the Iona conference (April 29th), the network meeting (April 28th or evening of April 29th), information about the Iona network in Sweden, the BroBygge education (registration by May 15th), or the Pilgrimage walk on May 20th. Contact details for Brommadialogen are provided: Address: Åkeshovsvägen 29, 168 39 Bromma. Phone: 08-564 350 30 (Tues-Thurs 10-12) and 070-758 27 35. Email: [email protected]. The form requires Name, Address, E-post, and Telephone number. Confirmation, practical information, and invoices will be sent after registration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine strongly promotes community building, spiritual exploration, and alternative approaches to traditional events like Midsummer. There is a clear emphasis on making theological and spiritual resources accessible, as seen with the downloadable materials and the promotion of the Iona network. The editorial stance appears to be one of fostering connection, learning, and personal growth through these initiatives.