Sokaren - 2007 No 06

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 6, 2007 (Årgång 44)
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- inkl moms

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine for life questions, features a prominent cover story on the 125th anniversary of Djurens Rätt (The Animal Rights Organization). It also includes articles on spirituality, philosophy, and scientific inquiry into consciousness and parapsychology.

Djurens Rätt Celebrates 125 Years

The magazine dedicates significant space to the 125th anniversary of Djurens Rätt, an organization founded in 1882. The article details the history of the movement, from its early focus on combating animal testing to its broader mission of fighting all forms of animal injustice. Key figures like Alexandra Leijonhufvud (chairperson) and former chairs are mentioned. The celebration included an exhibition, speeches, and a vegan jubilee dinner. The article highlights the organization's achievements, such as influencing legislation to limit animal testing and the ban on importing wild apes for experiments. It also features testimonials from prominent figures like Arne Weise and the 106-year-old animal friend Theresia Ek, who shared her personal journey to vegetarianism.

Richard D. Ryder, a British psychologist and philosopher, is featured discussing his concept of 'speciesism' and his book 'Victims of Science'. The article also touches upon the philosophical underpinnings of animal rights, emphasizing that all sentient beings deserve consideration.

Spirituality and Self-Realization with Bernie Prior and Florian Tathagata

Two spiritual teachers, Bernie Prior from New Zealand and Florian Tathagata from Germany, are presented. Bernie Prior is described as having experienced enlightenment and now travels the world teaching about the true nature of the self as pure consciousness. The reportage from a 'hemma hos-satsang' (at-home spiritual gathering) with Prior highlights his teachings on shedding limiting thought and behavior patterns to live authentically.

Florian Tathagata is portrayed as a teacher who encourages people to 'meet' themselves and others without resistance, focusing on the present moment. His approach involves inviting individuals to simply 'be' and to embrace their experiences, including difficult emotions, with love and acceptance. The article describes sessions where participants experience profound shifts and a sense of liberation by letting go of their usual mental patterns.

Philosophical Reflections: The Teleological Argument and Consciousness

Lennart Kjellson explores the teleological argument for God's existence, suggesting that the intricate design and purposeful development observed in nature, such as the metamorphosis of a butterfly or the formation of the human reproductive system, cannot be explained by random chance or purely Darwinian mechanisms. He argues that these phenomena imply an intelligent designer.

Another section, 'Reflexioner' (Reflections), discusses the nature of consciousness and the universe. It poses the question of whether the universe is a thinking entity or merely a product of chance. The text contrasts the materialistic view, which explains existence through mechanical processes, with a view that posits a conscious, intelligent force behind creation.

Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)

Professor Peter Fenwick, a British neuroscientist, is featured for his research into near-death experiences. The article discusses how NDEs, reported by individuals who have been clinically dead, often involve out-of-body perceptions and a sense of peace. Fenwick's work challenges the conventional view that consciousness is solely a product of brain activity, suggesting that consciousness might be able to exist independently of the physical body.

Critique of University Practices in Parapsychology

Guy Lyon Playfair critically examines the handling of funds designated for parapsychology research at Swedish universities. He highlights instances where universities have allegedly diverted donations intended for psi research to other fields or failed to establish professorships as specified by donors. The article points to the case of the Arthur Koestler professorship at Edinburgh University and the Poul Thorsen professorship at Lund University as examples of how intended parapsychology research may have been sidelined or undermined by skeptical factions within academia.

Wisdom Quotes

The magazine includes a section of wisdom quotes from various philosophers, spiritual figures, and thinkers, such as Ambrose Bierce, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Eckhart Tolle, Marcus Aurelius, Lao-Tzu, Spinoza, Dalai Lama, George Santayana, Walt Whitman, Hafiz, Josh Billings, Meister Eckhart, Paul Brunton, Peter Russell, Krishna, Albert Schweitzer, Abdul-Bahá, and Muhammad.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the interconnectedness of life (as seen in animal rights and the concept of a universal consciousness), the search for truth and self-understanding through spirituality and introspection, and the critical examination of scientific and academic practices. The magazine appears to advocate for a more open-minded approach to phenomena that challenge conventional scientific paradigms, particularly in the fields of parapsychology and consciousness studies. The editorial stance seems to favor philosophical and spiritual inquiry alongside scientific investigation, encouraging readers to question established norms and explore deeper meanings of existence.

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 6/2007, presents a diverse range of articles spanning science, philosophy, psychology, health, and spirituality. The cover highlights a 'believing scientist,' Sune Svanberg, and features an introduction to The Scientific and Medical Network (SMN) and the appointment of Adrian Parker as a professor.

Science and Networks

The Scientific and Medical Network (SMN) is described as an international organization based in the UK, promoting both rational analysis and intuitive understanding of science. It questions some fundamental assumptions of modern science, advocating for a more open and versatile approach. With over 2000 academics and 800 other members in more than 50 countries, SMN publishes a journal, organizes seminars, and explores ideas beyond current scientific paradigms. A core belief within SMN is that the universe is an organic, conscious entity, a self-organizing system driven by consciousness, with individual consciousnesses being parts of a cosmic consciousness.

Health Tips and Personalities

Several health tips are provided, including the cancer-preventive properties of yellow onions, the benefits of green tea for reducing diabetes risk, and the circulatory advantages of dark chocolate and cocoa. The article also mentions Doris Lessing receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature for 2007, noting that while she is a fiction writer, individuals who author important non-fiction books on ethics, health, and life philosophies are rarely recognized with such awards. The Swedish Academy's focus on fiction is critiqued for potentially devaluing works that address significant life questions.

Controversial Biographies and Psychology

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a review of Lothar Machtan's book, 'Hitler's Secret: A Dictator's Double Life.' The review explores the author's thesis that Hitler was homosexual, discussing his relationships and the homoerotic undertones within the early Nazi movement. The article notes Hitler's lack of normal empathy and his psychopathic tendencies, while also acknowledging Machtan's portrayal of Hitler as more human than in other accounts. The reviewer concludes that Hitler was an 'extreme shithead.'

Near-Death Experiences and Spirituality

The theme of life after death is explored through an article titled 'No Death Exists!' by Else Byskov, who argues that death is an illusion. The article discusses near-death experiences (NDUs), citing researchers like Raymond Moody and Bruce Greyson. It mentions scientific studies on NDUs, including one published in The Lancet. The phenomenon of children recounting past lives is also touched upon, referencing the work of Professor Ian Stevenson. The article also briefly mentions regression therapy and deathbed visions.

Book Reviews

The magazine features several book reviews:

• 'I Världsfurstens harem' by Göran Hägg: This book about the poet Erik Johan Stagnelius is described as a comprehensive work exploring his life, mysticism, and struggles with addiction. Stagnelius, despite his personal difficulties, is recognized as a significant Swedish poet.
• 'Faller fritt som i en dröm' by Leif GW Persson: This review is highly critical of Persson's novel about the Palmemordet, accusing it of mixing fact and fiction without clear distinction and deeming it a 'mastodontroman' lacking substantial content.
• 'Forskningens gråzoner' (Research Gray Zones) edited by Wilhelm Agrell: This anthology is reviewed for its examination of the credibility of contemporary knowledge production. The review highlights contributions discussing the influence of funding on research and the limitations imposed by 'quality assurance' measures.
• 'Introduktion till forskningsmetodik' (Introduction to Research Methodology) by Judith Bell: This book is presented as a guide to research methods, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and acknowledging the emotional influence on researchers. It discusses methods like grounded theory, participant observation, interviews, and surveys.
• 'Vetenskapsfilosofi' (Philosophy of Science) by Magdelene Thomassen: This book, subtitled 'Introduction to the Philosophy of Science,' focuses on the practical application of scientific approaches in fields like healthcare and social work, discussing schools of thought such as positivism, phenomenology, hermeneutics, and deconstruction.
• 'Medmänniskor' (Fellow Humans) by Stefan Einhorn: This book is described as a follow-up to Einhorn's bestseller 'The Art of Being Kind,' offering fictional stories and reflections on developing empathy and becoming a better human being.
• 'Bli ditt bästa jag' (Become Your Best Self) by Lars Thool and Thomas Kahn: This book is an introduction to Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), offering tools and techniques for personal development and success.
• 'Plotinos: Mystikens stora filosof' (Plotinos: The Great Philosopher of Mysticism): This article explores the philosophy of Plotinos, a key figure in Neoplatonism, discussing his concepts of 'the One,' 'Nous' (intellect), and the Soul, and his influence on subsequent philosophical and mystical thought.
• 'C. G. Jung om livet bortom döden' (C.G. Jung on Life Beyond Death) by Alf Ahlberg: This piece delves into Carl Jung's views on life after death, drawing from his autobiography. It discusses his theories on the collective unconscious, archetypes, and his personal experiences with visions and near-death phenomena, suggesting that life after death might involve reincarnation or a continued spiritual existence.

Läsarforum (Reader Forum)

This section includes a response from Göte Andersson to Torgny Granberg regarding 'earth radiation' and 'dowsing,' questioning the scientific validity of such practices. It also features a tribute to Jan-Erik Luft, who passed away at the age of 62, known for his work with Världsbild förlag and his dedication to the teachings of Martinus.

Other Sections

• 'Manipulerad' (Manipulated): A reflection on how to avoid being manipulated by biased information, emphasizing critical thinking.
• 'ECKANKAR i Sverige': An introduction to Eckankar, a spiritual organization, and its practices.
• 'För en lyckligare värld' (For a Happier World) by Åsa Freij: This article discusses the concept of happiness and the work of Charity International, an organization aiming to create a happier world through utilitarian principles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical yet open-minded approach to various subjects, encouraging readers to question assumptions and explore alternative perspectives. There's a recurring interest in spirituality, mysticism, philosophy, and the intersection of science with these fields. The editorial stance appears to value in-depth analysis, personal experience, and a search for deeper meaning beyond materialist explanations. The magazine also engages with contemporary issues, offering critiques and discussions on societal trends and controversial topics.