Consciousness

Consciousness refers to an individual's subjective experience and awareness of their thoughts, emotions, sensations, and environment. It has long been considered one of the central mysteries in the field of psychology and neuroscience but through the study of near death experiences, paranormal phenomenon and other strange phenomenon, humanity has made great strides in uncovering the secrets of consciousness.

The concept of the soul has long been culturally and philosophically dependent and can have different interpretations across time and place. In some belief systems, the soul is considered an immortal and spiritual essence that transcends physical existence and endures after death. In others, the soul is seen as a metaphor for the inner self or the seat of emotions and personality. It can be argued that there is no scientific evidence for the existence of the soul but there is certainly proof that the soul exists.

Consciousness and the soul, if not the same, exist together and they exist infinitely, before and after physical life, without the need of the brain or body to be their vessel.

Where Did Consciousness Come From?

The question of where consciousness comes from is one of the most profound and debated topics in philosophy, neuroscience, psychology, and cognitive science. There is no universally accepted answer, and multiple theories exist. Here are some of the prominent perspectives on the origin of consciousness:

Materialism/Physicalism: This view posits that consciousness arises from the physical processes of the brain. According to this perspective, the complex interactions of neurons and their associated electrochemical processes give rise to subjective experience. But that can't be so because many people have had verifiable conscious experiences when they were dead.
Panpsychism: This idea suggests that consciousness is a fundamental property of the universe, similar to space and time. According to this view, consciousness is not solely a product of the brain but exists in some form in all matter. Individual conscious experiences emerge from the combination of these fundamental conscious elements. This idea appears to be at least partially correct. We are discovering that things we once believe was not conscious in fact are.
Emergentism: This view proposes that consciousness is an emergent phenomenon that arises when the complexity of brain processes reaches a certain threshold. In other words, it's not reducible to individual neuronal processes but emerges from their collective interactions. Can't be so if those who die and live to tell of it remember multiple previous lives.
Dualism: Dualism posits that consciousness is distinct from physical matter and cannot be explained by purely physical processes. This view is often associated with the idea that there is a non-physical "mind" that interacts with the physical body. Well that explains it but what does it mean?
Information Integration Theory: Proposed by neuroscientist Giulio Tononi, this theory suggests that consciousness arises from the integrated information within the brain. According to this view, highly integrated systems of information exhibit conscious experiences. Nope... The brain is definitely separate from consciousness and consciousness does not need the brain.

It's important to note that none of these theories has been definitively proven, and the nature of consciousness remains a subject of ongoing research and philosophical debate. The question of where consciousness comes from is deeply complex and may not have a single, straightforward answer. It is a topic that continues to fascinate and challenge scientists, philosophers, and thinkers across various disciplines.

Universal Consciousness

Universal consciousness, also known as cosmic consciousness or collective consciousness, is a concept that appears in various philosophical, spiritual, and metaphysical traditions. It refers to the idea that there is a fundamental, interconnected awareness that pervades the entire universe, encompassing all living beings, objects, and phenomena.

Here are some key aspects often associated with the concept of universal consciousness:

Interconnectedness: Universal consciousness suggests that all things in the universe are interconnected at a fundamental level. This interconnectedness transcends individuality and implies a shared, unified awareness.
Non-Duality: In many interpretations, universal consciousness is considered non-dual, meaning it is not divided into separate entities or individual consciousnesses. Instead, it is a singular, undivided field of awareness.
Transcendence of Time and Space: Universal consciousness is often thought to exist beyond the constraints of time and space. It is considered eternal and boundless.
Transpersonal Experience: Some individuals claim to have experiences of universal consciousness through practices like meditation, deep contemplation, or certain altered states of consciousness. These experiences are often described as states of profound unity, oneness, and a sense of being connected to everything.
Spiritual and Mystical Traditions: The concept of universal consciousness is frequently found in various spiritual and mystical traditions, including certain branches of Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, and certain interpretations of Christian mysticism. It is also present in non-religious philosophical systems.
Quantum Physics and Metaphysics: Some interpretations of quantum physics and metaphysical theories suggest the possibility of a fundamental field of consciousness that underlies physical reality.
Source of Creativity and Wisdom: Universal consciousness is sometimes associated with the wellspring of creativity, insight, and wisdom. It is viewed as the source from which profound insights and inspirations arise.
Ethical and Moral Implications: Beliefs in universal consciousness can lead to a sense of responsibility and compassion for all living beings, as they are seen as interconnected aspects of a larger whole.

It's important to note that the concept of universal consciousness is not universally accepted, and interpretations vary widely across different belief systems. Some view it as a literal, objective reality, while others see it as a metaphorical or symbolic representation of a deeper aspect of human experience.