Sokaren - 2008 No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 1, 2008
Volume: 45
Date: January 2008
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: 50:- including tax

Cover Story: Right Livelihood Award Laureates 2007

The cover of the January 2008 issue of Sökaren features a photograph of the 2007 Right Livelihood Award recipients. The main headline announces "Right Livelihood Award Laureates 2007." The individuals pictured, from left to right, are Dekha Ibrahim Abdi from Kenya, a representative from Grameen Shakti in Bangladesh, Dirpal Barua from Grameen Shakti, Jakob von Uexkull, Christopher Weeramantry from Sri Lanka, and Louise and Percy Schmeiser from Canada. The photograph is credited to Karl Gabor.

The accompanying text explains that the Right Livelihood Award was first presented in 1980, based on an idea and initial funding from the Sweden-based Jakob von Uexkull. Von Uexkull aimed to reward knowledge that was essential for solving the world's real problems, a different kind of knowledge than that recognized by Nobel Prizes.

Article: "Alternative Nobel Prize" 2007: Practical Solutions to Today's Global Challenges

This reportage by Åsa Freij delves into the 2007 Right Livelihood Awards, often referred to as the "Alternative Nobel Prize." Four recipients were honored for developing practical solutions to significant global challenges.

• Christopher Weeramantry (Sri Lanka): Recognized for his lifelong, pioneering work in strengthening and broadening international law in theory and practice.
• Dekha Ibrahim Abdi (Kenya): Awarded for demonstrating how religious and other conflicts can be resolved, leading to reconciliation and development processes even after violent conflicts.
• Percy and Louise Schmeiser (Canada): Honored for their courage in defending biodiversity and farmers' rights, and for challenging current environmentally and morally distorted interpretations of patent laws.
• Grameen Shakti (Bangladesh): Acknowledged for providing environmentally friendly lighting and energy to thousands of villages in Bangladesh, promoting health, education, and productivity.

Each recipient received a share of the two million kronor prize money.

Background and Present Day

The Right Livelihood Award is presented annually by the Right Livelihood Award Foundation, now in its 27th year. The award's founder, Jakob von Uexkull, an expatriate Swede, initially proposed a substantial sum to the Nobel Foundation to establish an additional prize that would truly align with Alfred Nobel's will: a prize for those who have contributed the "greatest possible benefit to humanity," promoting survival, peace, a good environment, and human rights.

When the Nobel Foundation declined, von Uexkull established his own foundation. The first award ceremony in 1980 was a modest affair in Stockholm, with the prize going to an Egyptian architect and The Farm collective in the USA. The meal then consisted of "sprout sandwiches." Sökaren was among the media present.

Over the years, the award has gained recognition and prestige. Jakob von Uexkull himself has received accolades and international attention.

Ceremony According to Tradition

The award ceremony is held in the historic Riksdagshuset (Parliament House) and supported by a special association, SÄRLA, comprising members of parliament from all parties. The event includes an opening address by a representative figure, in 2007 by the 2nd Deputy Speaker Birgitta Sellén, and a speech by Sven Bergström from the parliamentary support association. Jur. dr. Peter Nobel also spoke, referencing Socrates and the concept of "idiots" as those who disregard their responsibility to the world, drawing a parallel to today's exploitative and greedy power abusers whose actions threaten humanity's survival.

Important Speech by Jakob von Uexkull

Jakob von Uexkull delivered his customary important opening speech, which was factual and sobering. This year, it surprisingly focused less on the climate threat, as he had addressed it extensively the previous year. He emphasized that the world situation is more serious than ever, noting the difficulty of discussing destructive factors with melting glaciers. Von Uexkull connected this to his previous year's statement, highlighting that destructive forces, once vying for economic dominance, would now have to unite against the common enemy: climate change. He stressed the importance of public awareness and education, as an uninformed populace cannot influence change.

Dekha Ibrahim Abdi: A Global Peacebuilder

Dekha Ibrahim Abdi is a globally engaged peace worker from rural Kenya. Her approach combines gentleness with uncompromising commitment and a strong spiritual outlook, leading to successful conflict resolution in many countries. Having grown up with people of various religious backgrounds, she emphasizes the commonalities that unite people of deep ethical conviction. She co-founded The Wajir Peace Committee in 1992, a grassroots movement for peace involving representatives from different groups, empowering ordinary people in conflict resolution. Her work has expanded across Kenya and into other African nations, making her a sought-after speaker and advocate for peace.

Christopher Weeramantry: Jurist for International Law

Christopher Weeramantry, born in Sri Lanka in 1926, is a world-renowned jurist and former Vice President of the International Court of Justice. He has played a crucial role in advocating for international laws, particularly concerning nuclear weapons limitations, human rights, and environmental protection. His book "Nuclear Weapons and Scientific Responsibility" serves as a moral and legal guide for nuclear physicists, and "The Lord's Prayer: Bridge to a Better World" clarifies fundamental human rights that must be secured in international legislation. Weeramantry remains active, traveling globally to address critical issues.

Percy and Louise Schmeiser: Defending Biodiversity and Farmers' Rights

Percy and Louise Schmeiser, farmers by profession, faced a legal challenge in 1998 from Monsanto, a major agricultural corporation, for allegedly using patented seeds. Although they denied using Monsanto's seeds, the incident highlighted the issue of patenting life, which the Schmeisers found alarming due to its potential to diminish biodiversity. They have pursued a legal battle against Monsanto, bringing the "patent on life" issue to the forefront. The Canadian Parliament is currently considering legislative changes.

Article: Unique Eco-Electricity for Millions

This section focuses on Grameen Shakti, an organization in Bangladesh that has provided affordable electricity to millions, earning it a Right Livelihood Award. The company, a spin-off from Grameen Bank (which received the Nobel Peace Prize the previous year), has brought electricity from solar cells to approximately one million people in thousands of villages. This electricity facilitates small businesses, improves health, education, and daily life. Grameen Shakti has installed around 120,000 solar panels in 31,000 villages and employs 200 engineers, with plans to reach one million solar panels in a few years. The article notes that only one-fifth of the rural population previously had access to electricity, often relying on harmful and expensive kerosene. Environmentalists suggest that Sweden could adopt similar solar panel initiatives, given its abundant sunlight.

Dipal Barua, representing Grameen Shakti, expressed his willingness to support common goals and was described as warm, cordial, and humble. The report mentions that the award ceremony's dinner, unlike the early days of sprout sandwiches, now includes meat dishes and alcoholic beverages, a point of mild contention for the reporter regarding vegetarianism.

Article: Books That Can Change the World

This report by Brita Adkinson details a conference in San Francisco called "Writing For Change." The conference brought together publishers, journalists, and aspiring authors to discuss books that serve as calls to action and warnings, offering messages for creating a better world.

• Riane Eisler: The author of "The Real Wealth of Nations: Creating a Caring Economics" and "The Chalice and the Blade" (published in Swedish as "Bägaren och svärdet"). Eisler advocates for building societies based on cooperation, equality, and shared responsibility, contrasting this with competition and authoritarian hierarchies. She highlights Nordic countries as examples of valuing small-scale living, unspoiled nature, and equitable distribution of resources. Her work suggests economic systems that are neither capitalist nor socialist, offering a new model for overcoming war, terrorism, and poverty.
• Philip Zimbardo: A professor who presented his theories from his book "The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil." Zimbardo argues that ordinary individuals can commit heinous acts under specific circumstances, citing his Stanford prison experiment from the 1970s. He emphasizes that societal and political systems play a role in shaping behavior, and governments have a responsibility to create systems that foster positive aspects of human nature.

The article also touches upon the author's personal experience as a Swede living in the USA, noting the differing attitudes towards war and environmentalism. The conference provided a stimulating environment for discussing positive change.

Article: "The Alternative Nobel Prize" 2007

This section continues the reportage on the Right Livelihood Award, detailing the backgrounds and contributions of the 2007 laureates. It reiterates the award's purpose and the significance of the recipients' work in addressing global issues.

Article: J. Krishnamurti Dissolves His Organization

This article discusses J. Krishnamurti's decision to dissolve "The Order of the Star," an organization with 100,000 members. Krishnamurti stated that truth is a "pathless land" and cannot be organized. He believes that interest in ideas is primarily sustained by organizations, but this interest is superficial if not born from love for truth itself. He argues that organizations become a cage, preventing individuals from seeking truth. Krishnamurti emphasizes that he does not seek followers or to establish new religions or sects, but rather to help people become free from all limitations and fears. He asserts that true spirituality comes from within and that external organizations or authorities cannot lead one to it. He likens the process of seeking truth to climbing a mountain, where one must ascend independently.

Visdomsbladet (Wisdom Pages)

This section presents a collection of wisdom quotes from various sources, including:

• Epikuros: "Where we are, death is not; where death is, we are not."
• Pierre Teilhard de Chardin: "When we have learned to master the winds, the waves, the tides, and gravity, we will then harness the forces of love. Then, for the second time in history, humanity will have discovered fire."
• Else Byskov: "There is nothing final about death."
• Lao Tzu: "When you realize that nothing is missing, the whole world belongs to you."
• H. Emilie Cady: "There are no places where God is not present."
• Krishnamurti: "Take responsibility for your actions. Do not hide behind external authorities."
• Booker T. Washington: "I shall not let anyone diminish my soul by making me hate him."
• Richard Bach: "You do not exist to impress the world. You exist to live your life in such a way that you are happy."
• Chinese Proverb: "You cannot prevent the birds of sorrow from flying over your head, but you can prevent them from building nests in your hair."
• Deepak Chopra: "Do not follow someone else's map."
• Norman Vincent Peale: "Do not build obstacles in your imagination."
• Eknath Easwaran: "We all have a tremendous jewel deep within us, and we were created only to discover this jewel here on earth while we live."
• Sven Magnusson: "A beautiful woman... the universe created her. The glands whose secretions make man experience a woman's beauty and charm were created by the universe."
• C. W. Leadbeater: "We are all linked together in a long chain of mutual service, from the highest to the lowest."
• Jan Fridegård: "One must have an altar within oneself, but one must decide for oneself what to sacrifice upon it."
• Carit Etlar: "Joy is like a light - if you light it for others, its glow falls back on you."
• Greenlandic Proverb: "When you have gone so far that you can no longer take a single step, you have only gone half the distance you can manage."

This section also includes a quote from "Levande visdom" (Living Wisdom) by Sverre Holmsen, a collection of wisdom quotes.

Reflections: Humanity on the Path

This editorial discusses the nature of religions, their role in human development, and the limitations of believing in absolute perfection within any single faith. It contrasts scientific exploration with spiritual evolution, suggesting that future scientific understanding may incorporate a "factor X" representing consciousness and intelligence as fundamental to the universe. The editorial criticizes the resistance to questioning materialistic scientific assumptions and highlights the inertia in scientific thinking.

Article: Dr. Wiltse's Experience

This article, from the English Society for Psychical Research, recounts the near-death experience of Dr. Wiltse. After being clinically dead for four hours, he describes a sensation of his consciousness separating from his body. He perceived himself as a translucent, naked being, initially feeling embarrassed but then finding himself clothed. He observed his own body lying on the bed and interacted with other disembodied entities. Dr. Wiltse describes the sensation of his spirit being pulled from his body, a process involving the detachment of "countless small threads." He notes the clarity of his thoughts and the absence of physical pain, concluding that death is not an end but a transition to a state of greater awareness and freedom.

Article: "Quo Vadis?" Excerpts

This section features excerpts from the magazine "Quo Vadis?" (Swedish edition of "The Star"), which was published internationally. The excerpts include:

• From an article on "Angels at Mons" by Ingrid Nyborg-Fjellander: Discusses a reported incident during World War I where English soldiers were allegedly saved by angelic intervention.
• From an article by Ingrid Nyborg-Fjellander: Quotes Lord Kelvin on the idea of a "planning power" behind nature, suggesting that scientific processes alone cannot explain the existence of life.
• From an article on "Seven Ways to Work Practically for Humanity" by Geoffrey Hodson: Outlines principles of non-violence, compassion, and ethical living, including vegetarianism and avoiding cruelty to animals.
• From an article by J. Krishnamurti: Discusses the concept of "Quo Vadis?" as a magazine promoting J. Krishnamurti's ideals and the idea of a progressive social outlook.
• An excerpt from Dr. J. v/d Leeuw: Expresses disappointment with the lack of compassion and the prevalence of "progressive social thinking" being condemned as radicalism in America.

Article: "Love Life" by J. Krishnamurti

This poem by J. Krishnamurti reflects on the nature of life, love, and immortality. It encourages embracing life fully, finding divinity within, and living in harmony with others. The poem suggests that true immortality lies in shedding the ego and merging with the universal life force.

Article: Vegetarianism vs. Moralism

This article, from "Teosofisk Tidskrift," discusses vegetarianism not just as a dietary choice but as an ethical stance. It criticizes a "Daily Chronicle" (Sv. Dagbladet) editorial that questioned the connection between diet and morality, comparing the natural predation of animals to human slaughter. The author argues that vegetarianism is rooted in compassion and the recognition of animals as fellow beings, and that the principle of "Thou shalt not kill" applies to all living creatures.

Article: The Greatness of Humanity: Muhammad

This extensive article details the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. It begins by describing the state of ignorance and barbarism in Arabia before his advent. Muhammad is portrayed as a figure of truth, honesty, purity, and compassion who brought a message of unity with God, prayer, charity, and fasting. The text highlights his early life, his marriage to Khadija, and his profound inner struggles before receiving divine revelation. It emphasizes his role in transforming Arabia into an organized state and his legacy in spreading knowledge that influenced Europe's scientific renaissance. The article quotes Muhammad's teachings on kindness, charity, the importance of knowledge, and the concept of God's family. It also touches upon the historical spread of Islam and its significant contributions to science, philosophy, and culture.

Article: The Individual's Path to Truth

This section features an excerpt from J. Krishnamurti's speech on dissolving "The Order of the Star." He reiterates that truth is a pathless land and cannot be organized. He stresses that individuals must find their own way to truth, free from external authorities, religions, or organizations. He argues that organizations, while sometimes useful for practical matters, can become hindrances to spiritual growth. Krishnamurti's aim is to liberate people from all limitations and fears, enabling them to realize their true selves and achieve lasting happiness.

Article: The Greatness of Humanity: Muhammad (Continued)

This continuation of the article on Muhammad further elaborates on his teachings and their impact. It discusses the concept of Sufism, the mystical dimension of Islam, and its emphasis on inner experience and divine love. The text also touches upon the concept of reincarnation as understood within some spiritual traditions, suggesting a progression through different forms of existence. The article includes a poem by J. Krishnamurti titled "Love Life," which extols the beauty and divinity of existence and the importance of embracing life with joy and awareness.

Article: Dr. Wiltse's Experience (Continued)

This section continues the account of Dr. Wiltse's near-death experience, as reported by the Society for Psychical Research. It details his observations of his own body and his interactions with other disembodied entities. The description focuses on the separation of consciousness from the physical form and the sensations associated with this transition. The article suggests that Dr. Wiltse's experience provides evidence for phenomena described in occult literature, such as the astral body and clairvoyant perception.

Reflections: Vegetarianism vs. Moralism

This piece, from "Teosofisk Tidskrift," argues for vegetarianism as an ethical imperative, not merely a dietary choice. It critiques a newspaper editorial that equated the natural predation of animals with human slaughter, asserting that true morality extends to all living beings. The author emphasizes compassion and the recognition of animals as fellow creatures, aligning vegetarianism with the principle of "Thou shalt not kill."

Article: Reflections: Where To?

This short piece, attributed to Angelus Silesius, offers a spiritual reflection on the nature of God and the self. It suggests that God resides within each individual and that seeking divinity externally is futile. The message encourages finding God within and recognizing the divine in all beings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren include the pursuit of practical solutions to global problems, the importance of spiritual and ethical development, and the exploration of diverse belief systems and philosophies. The magazine appears to advocate for a holistic approach to life, emphasizing inner growth, compassion, and a commitment to creating a better world. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives on spirituality, social issues, and personal development without rigidly adhering to a single doctrine. There is a clear appreciation for individuals and organizations working towards positive change, as evidenced by the prominent coverage of the Right Livelihood Award.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1/2008, presents a diverse collection of articles exploring the intersection of science, spirituality, health, and philosophy. The magazine often takes a critical stance towards mainstream scientific and religious dogmas, advocating for alternative perspectives and deeper inquiry.

Key Articles and Themes

Att döda medmänniskor (Killing Fellow Humans)

This section begins with a stark statistic from Niklas Ekdal: 6256 American Iraq veterans committed suicide in 2005, a rate more than double that of the general population. Ekdal argues that killing others inflicts greater psychological damage than merely being exposed to danger, citing the difference in psychological impact between soldiers in World War II and the Vietnam War. He posits that war itself is a form of slavery, stripping individuals of their free will. The author reflects on how modern people's reactions to killing might differ from those of ancient warriors like Vikings or soldiers of Gustav II Adolf and Karl XII.

Gud skapade världen (God Created the World)

This article critiques the literal interpretation of creationism, as presented in the Christian magazine *Genesis*. While acknowledging the difficulty of accepting a literal six-day creation, the author agrees with *Genesis* that life on Earth cannot be explained solely by mechanical processes and natural selection. The article criticizes the 'establishment' for suppressing alternative theories to Darwinism and asserts that atheism has been disproven. It suggests that there is an intelligent creative force behind evolution, a 'factor X' that is not fully understood but is perceived as a guiding presence.

Doris Lessing and UFOs

Håkan Blomqvist writes about Nobel laureate Doris Lessing, who in her book 'The Sirius Mystery' suggests that much is hidden from ordinary citizens. Lessing believes that advanced beings may have used Earth for experiments and that past civilizations possessed forgotten knowledge. She also supports the idea that UFO reports, often attested by credible individuals, should be taken seriously.

Stenålderskost bra för diabetiker (Stone Age Diet Good for Diabetics)

Researchers in Lund conducted a study where 14 patients with coronary artery disease and diabetes followed a 'stone age diet' for three months, while 15 others followed a 'Mediterranean diet'. Those on the stone age diet achieved normal blood sugar levels. The researchers recommend that Type 2 diabetes patients consume plenty of fruit and avoid grains and dairy products, which are characteristic of the stone age diet.

Djurvänner i media (Animal Friends in the Media)

This piece notes the infrequent coverage of animal rights issues in Swedish media. It highlights two articles in *Aftonbladet* that addressed animal cruelty, one by Nima Daryamadj on slaughter in China and another by Jesús Alcalá on bullfighting in Spain. The author observes that both writers have immigrant names.

Telepati - några sanningens ord från förr (Telepathy - Some Words of Truth from the Past)

This section compiles quotes from prominent thinkers on telepathy. C.D. Broad, a professor of moral philosophy, declared telepathy an 'experimentally established fact' and argued it challenges the conventional scientific view of the mind-body connection. H.H. Price, a professor of logic, stated that the existence of telepathy implies a flaw in materialism. Henry Sidgwick, a founder of the Society for Psychical Research, called the ongoing debate about telepathy's reality a 'scandal'. Professor Sir Alister Hardy, a biologist, emphasized telepathy's significance for understanding human nature and the mind-brain relationship, predicting it would revolutionize science and religion.

Att tänka om i grunden... (Rethinking Fundamentally...)

This section draws parallels between past skepticism towards new ideas and current skepticism towards paranormal phenomena. It mentions the Wright brothers' flight and how it was initially dismissed by newspapers. It argues that while scientists today dismiss phenomena like telepathy as incompatible with the established worldview, this worldview itself may be flawed. The author suggests that the prevailing scientific view, which explains the world through chance processes and natural selection, is incomplete and that a radical revision of our understanding of the mind-brain relationship is needed.

Reinkarnation, karma

This article discusses reincarnation and karma, referencing the work of Professor Ian Stevenson, a leading reincarnation researcher. Stevenson found little evidence for a moral causal link between incarnations, suggesting that while reincarnation might exist, karma may not, or not in the way commonly understood. The article also touches upon Buddhist views of the soul and the possibility of believing in reincarnation without a belief in karma.

Odödlighetsproblemet (The Problem of Immortality)

This piece explores the concept of the soul's immortality within Christianity and other religions. It questions whether the individual soul, with all its characteristics, is immortal, or if only a core essence survives. The author discusses near-death experiences and reincarnation-type cases as potential evidence for the soul's survival. It also considers the idea of the soul merging with a universal consciousness.

Hitlers tankar (Hitler's Thoughts)

An article from *Genesis* discusses Adolf Hitler's views on human development. It recounts how Hitler considered Christianity outdated and hypocritical, favoring natural laws and the 'struggle for survival' as his religion. He believed in the elimination of the 'less developed' to advance evolution, rejecting the idea of coexistence between Nazism and religion.

Gåvor till Sökarens stödfond (Donations to Sökaren's Support Fund)

A list of donors and their contributions to the magazine's support fund.

Kan reinkarnation förklara vissa karaktärsdrag och fobier? (Can Reincarnation Explain Certain Character Traits and Phobias?)

This article examines Professor Ian Stevenson's research on reincarnation. Stevenson proposed that certain childhood behaviors, phobias, and interests might be expressions of memories from past lives. He documented cases where children exhibited unusual fears (e.g., of water if they drowned in a past life) or strong interests (e.g., in ships if they were sailors) that could not be explained by their current environment. The article also mentions children who identified with the opposite sex in a past life.

Religiös upplevelse (Religious Experience)

A personal account by Anna-Greta Ångström of a profound religious experience in Engelbrektskyrkan, where she felt a sense of peace and strength that helped her sick child. The experience led her to reflect on the nature of gratitude and divine presence.

Den gemensamma grunden (The Common Ground)

This section highlights the shared ethical principles found in major religions and philosophies, often referred to as the 'golden rule' – treating others as you wish to be treated. Examples are drawn from Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and ancient Greek philosophers.

Pastor Michael Dowd: Tack, Gud, för evolutionen! (Thank God, for Evolution!)

This article introduces Pastor Michael Dowd, who advocates for a reconciliation between science and religion. Dowd believes that God used evolution as His method for creating the world, challenging literal interpretations of the Bible. He argues that this perspective can resolve the conflict between science and faith, making God's existence more comprehensible. The article also briefly mentions 'Intelligent Design' but dismisses it as trivializing God and science.

Örtmediciner (Herbal Medicines)

This piece discusses the use of herbal medicines as natural alternatives to synthetic drugs, noting their potential for fewer side effects. It references information from 'Urologkanalen' and 'Utbildningsradion' about treating conditions like prostatitis with herbs and lifestyle changes. The article also touches upon traditional Chinese medicine and the growing acceptance of 'integrative medicine'. It cautions that while many herbal remedies are available, they may lack rigorous scientific documentation.

Meditation och hälsa (Meditation and Health)

This section highlights the benefits of meditation for calming the individual and improving health, citing its ancient roots and widespread popularity. It notes that many people claim meditation has positive effects on various illnesses.

En naturens hemlighet (A Secret of Nature)

This article discusses Scott Olsen's book 'Gyllene snittet: naturens största hemlighet' (The Golden Ratio: Nature's Greatest Secret). Olsen explores how mathematical principles, such as the Fibonacci sequence, are reflected in natural forms and structures, suggesting that this 'golden ratio' represents a fundamental principle of balance and beauty in nature. The author finds the book insightful but wishes it were longer.

Ekonomisk hälsa (Economic Health)

This is a review of Robert Hjalmarsson's book 'Pengaflöde och andlig energi: En väg till självförsörjning' (Money Flow and Spiritual Energy: A Path to Self-Sufficiency). Hjalmarsson proposes an 'ecological economy' where money is viewed as energy. He argues that imbalances in this energy flow lead to economic crises. The book explores personal and global money flow, linking it to spiritual energy systems and suggesting that a 'love-based economy' would be more sustainable than the current ego-driven capitalist system.

Fakta eller fantasier (Facts or Fantasies)

This section reviews the book 'Fakta eller fantasier, föreställningar i vetenskapens gränstrakter' (Facts or Fantasies, Beliefs on the Borders of Science), edited by Jesper Jerkert. The articles within this book are generally skeptical of paranormal claims. One article by Marianne Rasmuson critiques 'Intelligent Design', arguing it's a misrepresentation of the evolution debate. Martin Rundkvist writes about Magnus Gabriel von Block, an early Swedish skeptic. Dan Larhammar criticizes Sanna Ehdin, an immunologist, for her health claims. Sven Ove Hansson is presented as a staunch defender of the scientific worldview against paranormal claims.

"Skeptiker" om sin tro ("Skeptics" About Their Beliefs)

This part of the 'Fakta eller fantasier' review discusses the skeptical stance of the book's contributors. It highlights Jesper Jerkert's role in promoting 'rational thinking' and debunking paranormal phenomena. The article criticizes the 'skeptics' for their rigid adherence to a materialistic worldview and their dismissal of anything that deviates from it. It also touches upon the controversy surrounding Uri Geller and the claims made by 'skeptics' about him.

Vänskap med djur (Friendship with Animals)

This is a review of Evelyn Sokolowski's book 'Djurvänskaper' (Animal Friendships). Sokolowski advocates for animal welfare, criticizing practices like competitive fishing and fur farming. While she accepts meat consumption, she argues for humane treatment of animals, emphasizing that they should not be subjected to unnecessary suffering. She contrasts the Christian view of animals with those of Hinduism and Buddhism, which she sees as more compassionate.

Koranen på svenska (The Quran in Swedish)

This is a brief review of a Swedish translation of the Quran by Mohammed Knut Bernström. It notes that Islam is a major world religion and that the Quran is considered God's revealed word. The review mentions that Islam views Jesus as a prophet but not as the son of God, and that it rejects the Holy Trinity. The reviewer, a non-believer, questions the Quran's length, wondering why God was not more concise.

Lillemors dikter (Lillemor's Poems)

This section features three poems by Lillemor Lönnqvist from her collection 'maskrosdun' (dandelion fluff). The poems reflect on finding Christ in unexpected places, the importance of empathy, and the pain of loss.

Läsarforum (Reader Forum)

This section contains a letter discussing Hitler and homosexuality. The writer suggests a link between Hitler's alleged syphilis infection from a Jewish prostitute and his anti-Semitism. Another letter discusses reincarnation therapy and its potential connection to past-life trauma.

En ny världsreligion? (A New World Religion?)

This article by Bernhard Hegardt discusses the possibility of a new world religion emerging. Hegardt argues that traditional religious forms are becoming less relevant and that a new religion would need to align with the scientific worldview. He mentions the anticipation of a 'world teacher' like Maitreya in Eastern traditions and cites scientists like Carl Gustav Jung and Viktor Frankl who emphasized the importance of spiritual or life-philosophical grounding.

Citat ur Marcus Aurelius "Självbetraktelser" (Quotes from Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations")

A collection of quotes from Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations', focusing on themes of impermanence, self-discipline, and virtue.

Prästen (The Priest)

This is a fictionalized dialogue between the magazine's narrator and a priest. The narrator challenges the priest on the harshness of Christian doctrine, particularly the concept of hell and the exclusion of animals from Christian compassion. The priest defends the Bible as God's word and criticizes the narrator's views as prideful and influenced by Eastern philosophies.

Religion är bra (Religion is Good)

This article defends the value of religious faith, particularly in difficult times. It argues that religious belief can provide solace and strength, and that seeking God in prayer is a natural human response. The author criticizes those who dismiss religion as merely personal and detached from societal issues, emphasizing that faith can be a powerful coping mechanism.

En vision om samverkan (A Vision of Cooperation)

Åsa Freij proposes the creation of a global movement and physical centers ('alternative model communities') for individuals who share a spiritual worldview and are committed to positive change. Freij, who has written about 'good souls' for thirty years, believes that cooperation is key to addressing global problems. She offers her properties as a potential base for such a movement, seeking like-minded individuals and organizations to join.

Henry Larssons Friskvårdskort (Henry Larsson's Health Card)

This section describes Henry Larsson's 'Health Card', which promotes five basic rules for a healthy, nature-based lifestyle: avoid toxins (alcohol, tobacco, coffee), eat a healthy diet (low in fat, sugar, salt, and processed foods), learn about nutrition and adopt a vegetarian diet, exercise regularly, and practice positive thinking. It also emphasizes outdoor activity and connection with nature.

Eskil Svensson om HÄLSA (Eskil Svensson on HÄLSA)

Eskil Svensson, who took over the magazine *HÄLSA* from Are Waerland, promotes 'Waerlandism' and a website called 'NY HÄLSA'. His motto is 'Cooperation with Nature'. He lists 12 building blocks for health, including avoiding refined sugar, using natural salt, eating raw foods, whole grains, and whole-grain bread, drinking water, regular exercise, relaxation, inner health, natural design in food choices, and self-care.

Ät inte djur! (Don't Eat Animals!)

This article reports on a warning from 22 experts on diet and cancer from the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF). They found that the risk of cancer increases with meat consumption and advised against eating processed meats like sausage and liver pâté, and limiting intake of beef, pork, and lamb to 500g per week. The article urges readers to consider these facts before buying food.

Ur Okunnighetens och fördomarnas encyklopedi (From the Encyclopedia of Ignorance and Prejudice)

This section features critical commentary on prominent figures associated with skepticism and materialism. Dan Larhammar, a professor of molecular cell biology, is portrayed as a staunch defender of scientific materialism, dismissing religion and paranormal phenomena as superstition. Sven Ove Hansson, a professor of philosophy, is depicted as a rigid opponent of anything outside the scientific worldview, attributing claims of paranormal events to fraud or incompetence. Jesper Jerkert, chairman of the association 'Vetenskap och Folkbildning' (Science and Education), is presented as a leading skeptic who aims to debunk pseudoscience. Christer Sturmark, an atheist, is criticized for his assertions that no spiritual or intelligent creator exists and that all phenomena are explained by material chance processes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions established scientific and religious narratives, promoting alternative perspectives and critical thinking. There's a strong emphasis on spirituality, the mind-body connection, natural health, and a critique of materialism and atheism. The editorial stance appears to favor a holistic and often unconventional approach to understanding reality, encouraging readers to explore beyond conventional wisdom. The magazine also shows a concern for animal welfare and a belief in the importance of ethical living.