Evolution

Apr 17 2018

Evolving on Purpose


Ever wondered what consciousness is? Or how it relates to evolution and the world of physical energy? Here’s my perspective:  “Consciousness is the intrinsic ability of matter/energy to feel, know (be aware), and purposefully direct itself.” I view “panpsychism” as the most coherent account of the relationship between consciousness and the physical world (between consciousness and energy). The physical world is made of energy that evolves into a dazzling variety of forms—including, for instance, human bodies.  However, mainstream science and philosophy assume that consciousness (or mind) emerges from wholly non-conscious brain cells. In fact, they say that biological evolution happens randomly due to a combination of genetic mutations and natural selection. There is no room for purpose in standard theories of evolution.  Panpsychism takes a very different view. It claims that all matter/energy comes with sentience or consciousness already “built in”—in other words, energy has the native ability to feel, to know . . .  Energy is intrinsically sentient or conscious. And that means the consciousness natively “within” energy has the ability to make choices. Sentient energy uses the power of choice to purposefully direct its own unfolding.  Evolution is not random. It is purposeful movement of energy through the universe. Because energy has its own inherent consciousness, it is aware of possibilities and makes choices toward achieving its goals (e.g., increased complexity, functionality, awareness, and the satisfaction of mastery).  Energy moves itself with purpose! Evolution is the result.  (Sometimes, however, evolution makes mistakes . . .)

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Sep 16 2007

Darwin or Jesus?


How About a Sacred Fish with Legs? What if both science and religion are wrong about evolution? What if both are right? We’ve all seen them: bumper stickers and decals of a fish with legs symbolizing Darwin’s theory of evolution. And then, from religious creationists, the “counter-decals” of a fish-with-a-cross swallowing “Darwin’s” amphibious fish. The battle of the decals is just one way the debate between creationists and evolutionists overflows onto our streets. But there’s an alternative: a philosophy that shows why both religion and science have got it wrong—and right. To move beyond the sectarian clashes and wars in these troubled times—between fundamentalists in both religion and science—we need a wiser, more coherent, account of who we are and how we came to be. We need a revised and renewed vision of creation and evolution. We need a deeper and broader understanding of both religion and science.

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