Evolving on Purpose

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 . . .)