Nonduality & The Science of Consciousness - Peter Russell

Video Description

The spiritual teaching of nonduality, which stems from the Indian philosophy of advaita, teaches that consciousness is the primary reality, the fundamental essence of the cosmos. On the other hand, the current scientific worldview holds that the physical world is primary, and that consciousness somehow, in ways that we do not yet understand, emerges from it. Both views have their challenges. If consciousness is primary, why do we not see it in all things? Conversely if the physical world is primary, how does consciousness arise from something as insentient matter? Peter Russell proposes that the solution to these problems lies in the recognition that information is fundamental to both realities, and physical reality, as we conceive of it, is but a representation of the external world appearing in the mind. This turns our current worldview inside-out; and into one that both beliefs can inhabit. --- Peter Russell studied theoretical physics, experimental psychology, and computer science at the University of Cambridge. He then went to India, to study meditation and Eastern philosophy, and on his return conducted research on the psychology of meditation. A leading thinker on consciousness and contemporary spirituality, he coined the term "global brain" with his 1980s’ bestseller of the same name in which he predicted the Internet and the impact it would have on humanity. Other books include The Awakening Earth, Waking Up in Time, From Science to God, and his most recent, Letting Go of Nothing. Peter is a fellow of The World Business Academy, The Institute of Noetic Sciences, The Findhorn Foundation, and an Honorary Member of The Club of Budapest. --- Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 00:27 - Meet Peter Russell 01:43 - Understanding Non-Duality 05:27 - The Science of Consciousness 14:57 - Perception and Reality 23:29 - The Nature of Reality 29:02 - Understanding Our Virtual Reality 31:13 - The Miracle of Conscious Experience 31:45 - Resolving the Hard Problem of Consciousness 33:33 - The Map and the Territory 37:13 - Meditative Introspection 46:12 - Implications of Non-Dual Awareness 58:04 - The Mission to Share Spiritual Wisdom --- Interview Links — Peter’s website: www.peterrussell.com/index.php — Peter’s books: https://amzn.to/3WRrnhd