MYSTICISM

The Matrix to Transcend ‘Brain, Mind, and Soul’

Abstract

As some astrophysicists predict a ‘Big Crunch’ at the other end of the ‘Big Bang’, it looks as if a convergence of physics and metaphysics is gaining momentum. Quantum physics, the physics of the subatomic elementary particles, now seems to propose theories which are quasi-mystical in nature and content. Quantum and astrophysicists are now asking epistemological questions about how we can know about the universe in terms of its more distant objects (quasars, black holes), its size (finite vs. infinite), quantity (universes vs. multiverse), and ‘life span’ (eternal [i.e., open] or thermodynamically limited [i.e., closed and inevitably doomed to collapse into a Big Crunch and then another Big Bang, a pulsating universe]). Geneticists are asking ethical questions about what is the nature of man in molecular terms regarding possible genetic controls of behaviour and man’s similarity or close kinship with chimpanzees and other ‘advanced’ animals. They are also asking questions as to what extent the genetic code of humans should be altered or edited to remove defects or even improve humankind. The theoretical possibility of incorporating nonhuman genetic material into people has even been considered. Medical technologists have asked the question whether life should be extended ‘at any cost’ both physically and financially. Advanced life support systems can maintain otherwise hopelessly incapacitated people in a vegetative state almost indefinitely. The issue of quality of life and whether life is worth living under those conditions arises and, therefore, the value or meaning of life itself is questioned. These questions go to man’s fundamental assumptions about his universe and himself which traditionally is the study of first principles or metaphysics, the core discipline of philosophy.