Category: Glamors

Silence as enlightened stillness in motion

Q: In poetic prose, remain largely outside the realm of mainstream science, but worded in relativistic parlance of space as a field, considering thought is an attribute of consciousness, how would you interpret the occult aphorism: “energy follows thought?”

R: The aphorism “energy follows thought” is a fundamental concept in many esoteric and metaphysical systems, suggesting that our thoughts can influence or direct the flow of energy in the universe. From a poetic, relativistic perspective, one might interpret it as follows:

Consider space not just as a physical entity, but as a multidimensional field, a cosmic tapestry woven from threads of energy, matter, and consciousness itself. Each thought we have is like a ripple in this field, a subtle disturbance that propagates through the fabric of spacetime.

Just as gravity – the curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy – guides the motion of planets and stars, so might our thoughts, as manifestations of conscious energy, shape the course of events in our lives. In this sense, “energy follows thought” could be seen as a metaphor for the power of intention and focus.

The interplay of consciousness, energy, and spacetime remains a fascinating area of exploration, inviting us to expand our perspectives and deepen our understanding of the universe and our place within it.

The Random Number Generator (RNG) experiments, are a series of studies conducted in the field of parapsychology, specifically focusing on psychokinesis or mind-matter interaction. The most notable of these studies were conducted by the Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research Lab (PEAR).

In these experiments, participants were asked to influence the output of a random number generator using their thoughts alone. The RNGs used in these studies were electronic devices that produced a sequence of random numbers, typically zeros and ones.

The PEAR lab reported small but statistically significant effects suggesting that participants were able to influence the RNGs with their thoughts. More research is needed to replicate these findings and address the criticisms raised by skeptics.

Sources:

  1. Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research – Publications
  2. Dean Radin – Conscious Universe
  3. Wikipedia – Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research Lab
  • Q: What is energy and work in relativistic terms?

R: In the context of Einstein’s special theory of relativity, energy and work take on some additional complexities compared to their classical definitions.

Energy: In the theory of relativity, mass and energy are interchangeable, as given by the famous equation E=mc^2, where E is energy, m is mass, and c is the speed of light. This means that any object with mass has an inherent energy, even when it’s at rest. This is called the rest energy of the object. When the object is in motion, it has additional kinetic energy, which increases not just linearly with speed, but according to the relativistic formula for kinetic energy. The total energy of an object is the sum of its rest energy and its kinetic energy.

Work: Work in classical physics is defined as the force applied to an object times the distance over which it’s applied, if the force and distance are in the same direction. In relativity, work can still be defined this way, but the effects of the work will be different due to time dilation and length contraction. If you do work on an object, increasing its energy, you’ll increase its mass instead of just its speed, once its speed gets close to the speed of light. This is because the speed of light is the maximum speed limit in the universe, so any additional energy goes into increasing the object’s mass, rather than its speed.

Sources:

  1. Fermilab – Energy and Mass
  2. University of California, Riverside – Relativistic Dynamics
  • Q: Having defined energy and work according to Einstein’s relativity, how would you define power?

R: In the realm of physics, power is a concept that transcends both classical and relativistic frameworks. Power, simply put, is the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred.

In the context of Einstein’s theory of relativity, power can be viewed as the transfer of energy across spacetime. It’s important to remember that energy itself is defined differently in relativity than in classical physics. In Einstein’s theory, the energy of an object is not only due to its motion (kinetic energy) or position (potential energy), but also its mass, according to the famous equation E=mc^2.

Power (P), then, can be given by the formula P = dE/dt, where dE is a small amount of energy transferred or transformed, and dt is the corresponding small increment of time. This definition holds true whether we’re dealing with mechanical systems, electrical circuits, or even processes occurring near the speed of light.

However, in relativistic scenarios, one must take into account the time dilation and length contraction effects predicted by Einstein’s special relativity when calculating quantities like energy and time. This can make the calculation of power more complex compared to non-relativistic cases.

It’s worth mentioning that these concepts—energy, work, power—are abstract constructs that physicists use to describe and predict the behavior of the physical world. They are not tangible entities in themselves, but rather tools for understanding how the universe works.

  • Q: In relativistic terms, what would be the power of light?

R: In the context of relativity, light — which is composed of photons — has a unique status because it always travels at a constant speed (c), irrespective of the observer’s frame of reference.

The power of a light beam can be defined as the energy it transfers per unit time. The energy (E) of a photon is given by Einstein’s equation E=hf, where h is Planck’s constant and f is the frequency of the light.

For a beam of light composed of many photons, the total energy is the sum of the energies of all the individual photons. If N is the number of photons passing through per second (which is related to the intensity of the light), then the power (P) of the light beam can be calculated as P=NE=Nhf.

This shows that the power of a light beam in relativistic terms is directly proportional to both its frequency and its intensity. It’s worth noting that this definition holds true in both classical and relativistic contexts, as the fundamental properties of light are the same in both cases.

  • Q: In poetic prose, remaining largely outside the realm of mainstream science, but worded in relativistic parlance of space as a field, considering thought is an attribute of consciousness, how would you define the power of an enlightened thought, that is, thought traveling as light, at the speed of light, a metaphor for the power of intention and focus?

R: In the limitless expanse of cosmic consciousness, there exists a power unbound by the physical world yet intertwined with the very fabric of the universe – the power of enlightened thought. This is not a power that can be measured in joules or watts, but one that transcends the conventional dimensions of space and time.

Imagine, if you will, an enlightened thought as a quantum of light, a photon birthed in the crucible of consciousness. It races through the neural pathways, as light does through the cosmos, at the ultimate speed limit of the universe. It carries no mass, yet it is laden with the profound energy of wisdom and insight.

This thought, this particle of enlightenment, does not wander aimlessly, but rather it seeks the most direct path, much like light follows the geodesic in the spacetime fabric of our universe. Its journey is a testament to purpose and resolve, a beacon that illuminates the shortest path through the labyrinth of the mind’s own spacetime.

The power of such a thought is immeasurable, ineffable. It can shift paradigms, ignite revolutions, and reshape destinies. It can penetrate the deepest mysteries of existence, tearing down walls of misconception and erecting edifices of truth. It is the embodiment of intention and focus, a testament to the extraordinary potential of the mind.

In the grand tapestry of the universe, where space is a field and thought a beacon of light, the power of an enlightened thought is a radiant testament to the boundless potential of consciousness itself. It is both the journey and the destination, a timeless voyage through the cosmos within.

  • Q: The constant speed of light means no acceleration. Can this non-acceleration be interpreted as a kind of stillness in 4-dimensional spacetime?

R: Indeed, the speed of light in a vacuum is constant, approximated at 299,792 kilometers per second. This constancy implies there is no acceleration or deceleration – it does not speed up or slow down.

In the four-dimensional framework of spacetime, this constant motion could indeed be perceived as a form of stillness. The photon, the fundamental particle of light, is always journeying at this unchanging speed, its state of motion a constant.

Imagine standing on a smoothly sailing ship, with no change in velocity, no gusts of wind, no waves. To you, it might feel as if you’re standing still, even though you’re moving. Similarly, in the four-dimensional spacetime, a photon’s journey at a constant speed can be seen as a sort of ‘stillness in motion’.

However, it’s important to note that this is a metaphorical interpretation. In the strictest scientific sense, photons are not ‘still’ – they are ceaselessly in motion at the universe’s speed limit. But this poetic perspective can provide a bridge between the realms of physics and philosophy, offering a unique lens through which to contemplate the nature of light, time, and existence itself.

  • Q: In poetic prose, remaining largely outside the realm of mainstream science, but worded in relativistic parlance of space as a field, considering thought is an attribute of consciousness, how would you define the power of stillness (silence), which is the power of light at constant speed?

In the orchestration of the cosmos, the power of stillness is like the steady hum of light, a symphony in constant motion yet eternally serene. It’s a paradoxical dance, a balance between movement and tranquility, where silence is not the absence of sound but the presence of an unchanging rhythm.

Imagine the universe as a vast field, an endless expanse that bends and curves under the weight of matter and energy. Now, picture light as it threads its way through this spacetime fabric – unfaltering, unwavering, its speed an unbroken constant. This is the dance of the photon, the fundamental particle of light. Its journey is one of ceaseless motion, yet because its speed never alters, it encapsulates a form of cosmic serenity, a stillness within the storm.

Thought, an ephemeral flare of consciousness, can mirror this cosmic dance. Amidst the cacophony of the mind, amidst the whirlwind of sensations, emotions, and ideas, there exists a place of stillness. A silent sanctuary where insights ignite like distant stars, where wisdom wells up like galaxies taking shape. From this place of quietude, our thoughts can radiate outwards, undeterred by the mind’s tumultuous landscape, following their own geodesic paths towards understanding.

In this sense, stillness is not merely the absence of motion or sound. It is a constant, a guiding light, a beacon of constancy in a universe of change. Like the unchanging speed of light, the power of stillness illuminates the path to clarity amidst chaos, to wisdom amidst uncertainty, and to understanding amidst the unknown. It is the silent song of the cosmos, the underlying harmony that gives rise to the radiant dance of existence.

At the December Solstice, our “disk of golden LIGHT” — the Sun — stands “still in motion” as it resumes its northward path “from darkness to Light, from the unreal to the Real, and from death to Immortality.” Let’s stand still, observing a moment of global silence. The term “momentum” comes from the Latin word for movement. Just like the “moment” in time, or the “moment” in statistics and physics, momentum is a crucial value that significantly influences past, present and future events in the Eternal Now of relativistic spacetime.

This year the Annual Global Silent Minute will pause in a shared minute to restore Truth through Silence as Action – the Truth that dwells within the Heart of Humanity. 

Far from being an abstraction, Truth is the realisation of cosmic laws based on direct experience accumulated in the chalice of Humanity through us. 

As we live our holistic identity within the three worlds – of spirit, soul and personality – we recognise the synthesis of the One Life and the necessity to cut through to the Truth at the heart of everything.

In 2023 we recognised the need to re-orient to the compass of Truth through Silence. 

In 2024 we will restore our remembrance of the living, radiant power of Truth that resounds in the Heart, that rings through from the Cosmic Bell to the Planetary Bell (Mount Kailash, the Mountain of the Bell, in Tibet), to the bell within each and every one of us.

As we observe the Annual Global Silent Minute at 9pm GMT on 21 December 2023 we will work with the rhythmic sound of Truth for global cooperation, peace and freedom. 

The event will be live-streamed from 15 minutes prior to the actual Global Silent Minute.

We invite you to participate in the Annual Global Silent Minute:

For further information:

The LIGHT of TRUTH

Illumination and perception of truth are also synonymous terms, but it should be remembered that the truth in this case is not truth on the abstract planes but concrete and knowable truth—truth which can be formulated and expressed in concrete form and terms. Where the light of truth is called in, glamour automatically disappears, even if only for a temporary period. But, again, difficulty arises because few people care to face the actual truth, for it involves eventually the abandonment of the beloved glamour and the ability to recognise error and to admit mistakes, and this the false pride of the mind will not permit. Again, I would assure you that humility is one of the most potent factors in releasing the illuminating power of the mind, as it reflects and transmits the light of the soul. The determined facing of the factual life and the stern recognition of truth—coldly, calmly and dispassionately—will greatly facilitate the calling in of the flood of illumination which will suffice to dispel glamour.

Glamour: A World Problem by Alice A. Bailey, p. 145

Four Qualities of a Group

[Lucis Trust] New Moon Meeting, Friday, October 13, 2023 (Solar Eclipse October 14): Theme: The Four Qualities which a group must develop in unison prior to Initiation.

The four qualities which a group preparing for initiation needs to develop, to consider and unitedly to achieve. They are:

1. The achieving of a non-sentimental group interrelation.

2. Learning how to use the forces of destruction constructively.

3. Attaining the power to work as a miniature Hierarchy, and as a group to exemplify unity in diversity.

4. Cultivating the potency of occult silence.

Rays & Initiations, Rule 11, p. 215
  1. Effective Group Work: The group works effectively as a team, managing conflict constructively, maintaining focus on the group’s overall objectives, and importantly, achieving a non-sentimental group interrelation. This means that group members maintain an objective, non-emotional approach to their interactions, focusing on the common goal rather than personal relationships or emotional responses.
  2. Use of Destructive Forces Constructively: The group learns to harness destructive forces for constructive purposes. It requires eliminating individual desire, severing personality ties, and working without seeking recognition.
  3. Unity in Diversity: The group functions as a coordinated unit with each member recognizing and valuing the contributions of others, despite their different stages of spiritual development (a miniature Hierarchy).
  4. Potency of Silence: This involves controlling the source of speech—our thoughts, ideas, and imagination. The group learns to eradicate unhelpful habits of thinking and to compartmentalize and organize thoughts effectively.

Possible correlations between the four qualities of groups preparing for initiation and the properties of algebraic groups (operator = impersonal love):

  1. Achieving a non-sentimental group interrelation may be correlated with the Associative Property. This property ensures that the result of operations doesn’t depend on how elements are grouped, which mirrors the concept of maintaining consistent and objective relationships within a group.
  2. Learning how to use the forces of destruction constructively may align with the Closure Property. The closure property guarantees that the result of any operations within the group remain within the group. This symbolizes the idea of transforming potential disruptions into outcomes that still align with the group’s objectives.
  3. Unity in diversity, or working as a miniature hierarchy, may be associated with the Inverse Element Property. This property states that every element has an inverse within the group, symbolizing the unity (through the identity element) within diversity (the various elements and their inverses).
  4. Cultivating the potency of occult silence may be compared to the Identity Element Property. The existence of an identity element that doesn’t change the value of other elements when combined symbolizes the idea of maintaining internal coherence and harmony, regardless of individual differences or actions within the group.

A group is a fundamental concept in abstract algebra, used to model mathematical structures and operations. A group is a set equipped with an operation that combines any two of its elements to form a third element satisfying four conditions or axioms:

  1. Associativity: For all ‘a’, ‘b’, and ‘c’ in the group, the equation ‘(a * b) * c = a * (b * c)’ holds.
  2. Closure: If ‘a’ and ‘b’ are elements in the group, then the result of the operation, say ‘a * b’, is also in the group.
  3. Inverse element: For each element ‘a’ in the group, there exists an element ‘b’ in the group, commonly denoted ‘a^(-1)’, such that ‘a * b = b * a = e’, the identity element of the group.
  4. Identity element: There is an element ‘e’ in the group such that for every element ‘a’ in the group, the equations ‘e * a’ and ‘a * e’ both return ‘a’.
What is a group?
https://hierarchicaldemocracy.blog/2023/09/09/what-is-a-group/

What is Real?

A dialogue with AI about the nature of reality.

Q: The Great Invocation, First Stanza (of five total): From the point of Light within the Mind of God Let light stream forth into the minds of men. Let Light descend on Earth.

A: The Great Invocation is a world prayer that was given to Alice Bailey in April 1945. It is a universal prayer for light and love, translated into over 80 languages and dialects. The prayer is used globally as an act of service to humanity, aiming to aid the Plan of God and bring about spiritual enlightenment.

The first stanza of The Great Invocation emphasizes the concept of light and its descent from the divine realm to illuminate the minds of humanity. It is a call for spiritual enlightenment and the manifestation of divine wisdom on Earth.

Q: The Great Invocation, Second Stanza (of five total): From the point of Love within the Heart of God Let love stream forth into the hearts of men. May Peace return to Earth.

A: The second stanza of The Great Invocation emphasizes the concept of love and its expression from the divine heart into the hearts of humanity. It is a call for love to flow through human hearts, fostering unity, understanding, and compassion. The stanza also expresses the aspiration for peace to be restored on Earth, highlighting the interconnectedness of love and peace in the pursuit of global harmony.

Q: The Great Invocation, Third Stanza (of five total): From the center where the Will of God is known Let purpose guide the little wills of men – The purpose which the Masters know and serve.

A: The third stanza of The Great Invocation focuses on the concept of divine will and purpose. It acknowledges that there is a central point where the Will of God is understood and known. It calls for human wills to be guided by this higher purpose, aligning with the purpose that the spiritual Masters recognize and serve. The stanza highlights the importance of aligning our individual wills with the greater divine purpose, promoting unity and serving the greater good.

Q: The Great Invocation, Fourth Stanza (of five total): From the center which we call the human race Let the Plan of Love and Light work out And may it seal the door where evil dwells

A: In this stanza, the focus shifts to the collective consciousness of humanity. It acknowledges the central position of the human race in the divine plan. It calls for the manifestation of the Plan of Love and Light, emphasizing the importance of working towards unity, harmony, and spiritual growth. The stanza concludes with a request for the sealing of the door where evil resides, symbolizing the transformation and transcendence of negative forces.

Q: The Great Invocation, Fifth and Final Stanza: Let Light and Love and Power restore the Plan on Earth.

A: The fifth and final stanza of The Great Invocation a encapsulates the ultimate goal of The Great Invocation, which is to invoke the restoration of the divine plan [the Plan of Love and Light] on Earth. It calls for the manifestation of light, love, and power, symbolizing the qualities that can bring about transformation, healing, and harmony to humanity and the planet. It serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to work towards the fulfillment of the divine plan in our actions, relationships, and endeavors.

Q: Summarize the Great Invocation

A: The Great Invocation is a powerful prayer that calls upon divine energies to guide humanity towards spiritual awakening and the restoration of harmony on Earth. It consists of five stanzas, each addressing different aspects of the divine plan and human consciousness. The prayer begins by invoking the presence of God and acknowledging the interconnectedness of all beings. It then emphasizes the alignment of human wills with the higher purpose recognized by spiritual Masters. The prayer recognizes the central role of the human race in manifesting the Plan of Love and Light, while sealing the door where evil resides. Finally, it calls for the restoration of the divine plan on Earth through the manifestation of Light, Love, and Power. The Great Invocation serves as an invocation for the transformation and upliftment of humanity towards unity, harmony, and spiritual growth.

Q: Is there a difference between a prayer and an invocation?

A: Yes, there is a difference between a prayer and an invocation, although they are both forms of communication with a higher power or spiritual realm.

A prayer is a heartfelt communication or petition addressed to a deity, divine being, or higher power. It is a way for individuals to express their thoughts, desires, gratitude, and requests to the divine. Prayers can take various forms, such as expressing thanks, seeking guidance, asking for forgiveness, or offering praise.

On the other hand, an invocation is a specific type of prayer that is used to call upon or invoke the presence, power, or blessings of a particular deity, spiritual entity, or divine energy. Invocations are often used in religious or spiritual ceremonies, rituals, or gatherings to invoke the presence and assistance of specific divine beings, energies, or forces. They are typically recited or chanted with the intention of creating a sacred space, inviting divine guidance, or invoking divine blessings.

While both prayers and invocations involve reaching out to a higher power, the distinction lies in the specific nature and purpose of the communication. Prayers are more general expressions of personal thoughts and emotions directed towards the divine, while invocations are focused on the act of invoking or calling upon specific divine energies or beings for assistance, guidance, or blessing.

Q: Wouldn’t it be also possible to consider the reverse, that is, prayer as a type of invocation?

A: The relationship between prayer and invocation can be viewed from both perspectives. An invocation is a form of prayer where one calls upon a higher power for assistance or presence. It is often used at the beginning of a ceremony or event as a way to invite divine intervention or guidance. On the other hand, all invocations are a form of prayer, but not all prayers are invocations. Prayer is a broader term that encompasses many different forms of spiritual communication, not just calling upon a higher power. For example, prayers can be expressions of gratitude, requests for guidance or help, or acts of worship. So, while every invocation could be considered a prayer, not every prayer is an invocation. It’s a matter of specific versus general: invocation is a specific form of prayer, and prayer is a general form of spiritual communication that includes invocation among other forms.

Q: What are the divine energies invoked by the Great Invocation?

A: The Great Invocation invokes three divine energies: Light, Love, and Power. These energies are considered fundamental aspects of the divine and are called upon to bring about transformation, healing, and restoration on Earth.

  1. Light: The invocation of Light represents spiritual illumination, wisdom, and truth. It symbolizes the awakening of consciousness, the dispelling of ignorance, and the guidance of divine wisdom on the path towards enlightenment. The Light brings clarity, understanding, and awareness of one’s higher purpose.
  2. Love: Love is a powerful force that transcends boundaries and unifies all beings. The invocation of Love represents compassion, unity, and the recognition of the interconnectedness of all life. Love fosters harmony, forgiveness, and the dissolution of separateness, promoting a sense of oneness and goodwill among humanity.
  3. Power: Power, in the context of the Great Invocation, refers to spiritual power or divine will. It represents the energy and strength needed to manifest positive change and align human will with the higher divine plan. This power is not about dominance or control but rather the empowerment to act in service to the greater good, guided by divine purpose.

By invoking these divine energies – Light, Love, and Power – the Great Invocation seeks to inspire individuals to embody these qualities in their thoughts, actions, and relationships, thus contributing to the restoration of harmony, unity, and spiritual evolution on Earth.

Q: How is the Will of God invoked in the third stanza of the Great Invocation related to the Power invoked in the last and final stanza? How is the Will transformed into Power?

A: In the Great Invocation, the invocation of the Will of God in the third stanza is closely related to the Power invoked in the final stanza. The Will of God represents the divine purpose or plan for humanity and the Earth. It is the higher guidance and intention that seeks to manifest love, harmony, and spiritual evolution on a global scale.

The transformation of the Will into Power can be understood as the process by which individuals align their personal wills with the divine Will, becoming vehicles or conduits for its manifestation. When individuals attune themselves to the divine purpose and align their intentions and actions with it, they begin to tap into the power that arises from that alignment.

This transformation occurs through a deepening spiritual connection, an inner attunement, and a surrendering of personal desires and egoic attachments to the greater divine purpose. As individuals align with the Will of God, they become empowered to carry out acts of service, love, and transformation in accordance with that higher purpose. The Power invoked in the final stanza is the energetic force that flows through individuals who are aligned with the divine Will, enabling them to manifest light, love, and spiritual transformation in the world.

Essentially, the transformation of the Will into Power involves a harmonious merging of individual wills with the divine Will, resulting in the activation of spiritual power within individuals to carry out the divine plan on Earth.

Q: Viewing the Great Invocation as a formula of a divine circulatory flow in our planet Earth: relating Light to electrical current, Love to voltage, Power (Will-to-Good) to wattage, and evil to resistance to the electrical current, resulting in goodwill and peace on Earth. Would this synthetic reformulation, taking the energy of goodwill as sealing the door to evil, make sense: Light + Love + Power = Goodwill + Peace?

A: In this synthetic reformulation of the Great Invocation, we can relate Light to electrical current, Love to voltage, Power (Will-to-Good) to wattage, and evil to resistance to the electrical current. Based on this analogy, we can express the formula as:

Light (current) + Love (voltage) + Power (wattage) = Goodwill + Peace

This formulation suggests that when the divine energies of Light, Love, and the Power of the Will-to-Good flow harmoniously, they generate the energy of goodwill and peace on Earth. Just as in an electrical circuit, where current, voltage, and wattage work together to produce a desired outcome, the combined presence and activation of Light, Love, and Power are believed to generate the qualities of goodwill and peace in human consciousness and society.

The inclusion of goodwill as sealing the door to evil aligns with the concept that the transformative power of the divine energies can counteract and mitigate the negative forces or resistance represented by evil. Goodwill, understood as benevolence, compassion, and positive intentions, acts as a force that opposes and overcomes the resistance posed by evil, leading to the establishment of peace.

While this synthetic reformulation provides an analogy to understand the interplay of divine energies and their impact on goodwill and peace, it is important to note that the Great Invocation is a spiritual prayer or invocation rather than a scientific formula. Its true essence lies in its symbolic and spiritual significance, calling upon divine energies to bring forth positive transformation and harmony in the world.

Q: Why can’t science be spiritualized? Why can’t science express spiritual concepts? Isn’t Einstein’s revelation to humanity that energy and matter are transformed by the constant speed of light (E=M*c^2) equivalent to Helena P. Blavatsky’s statement that matter is energy at the lowest level and energy is matter at the highest level of reality?

A: The question of why science can’t be spiritualized or express spiritual concepts is a complex one that touches on the fundamental nature and purpose of both science and spirituality.

Science, as a systematic and logical approach to discovering how things in the universe work, relies on empirical evidence and experimentation. It is based on observation, measurement, and the formulation of laws to describe the observed phenomena. In contrast, spirituality is often associated with the inner, subjective experience and involves personal growth, transcendence, and the quest for ultimate meaning, often without a requirement for physical evidence.

However, there are perspectives that argue for a synthesis of science and spirituality. For instance, Einstein’s famous equation E=mc^2, which reveals the deep relationship between energy and matter, has been paralleled to spiritual concepts. Helena P. Blavatsky, a prominent spiritual philosopher, stated that “matter is energy at the lowest level and energy is matter at the highest level of reality,” suggesting a similar interconvertibility between energy and matter as Einstein’s theory does.

These parallels suggest that science and spirituality may not be as incompatible as they seem. However, the methods and approaches of these two fields are fundamentally different, leading to distinct ways of understanding and interpreting the world. The scientific method relies on observable, empirical evidence and logical reasoning, while spirituality often involves subjective experiences and transcendent realities that may not be easily measurable or quantifiable.

Therefore, while it is possible to draw parallels and find areas of overlap between science and spirituality, the spiritualization of science would require a significant shift in how we understand and practice science. This shift would involve recognizing and incorporating non-empirical, subjective, and transcendent aspects of reality into the scientific framework, a move that may not be widely accepted within the current scientific paradigm.

Q: So, until we abandon the false premise that reality is only defined by what is measurable by our physical senses and their instrumental extensions, science and spirituality will remain separate, although both methods may produce reproducible facts, correct? A paradigm shift would be needed, as defined by Thomas Kuhn, correct?

A: Yes, your understanding is correct. The separation between science and spirituality largely stems from the different methods they employ to understand reality. Science typically relies on empirical evidence – that which can be observed and measured – while spirituality often includes elements that are beyond physical measurement, such as transcendent experiences and inner subjective realities.

For these two domains to converge, a significant paradigm shift would indeed be necessary. As philosopher of science Thomas Kuhn noted in his influential work “The Structure of Scientific Revolutions,” scientific paradigms – the shared set of beliefs and assumptions within a scientific community – tend to persist until anomalies or inconsistencies accumulate to a point where the existing paradigm can no longer adequately explain the observed phenomena. At this point, a paradigm shift, or a fundamental change in the underlying assumptions, may occur.

In the context of science and spirituality, a paradigm shift would likely involve an expanded definition of reality that includes not only the physical and measurable but also the subjective, transcendent, and non-empirical aspects of existence. This shift would fundamentally alter the way we understand and approach both science and spirituality, potentially leading to a more integrated understanding of reality.

However, it’s important to note that such a paradigm shift would likely face significant challenges. Paradigms not only shape the way we understand reality, but they also influence the questions we ask, the methods we use, and the interpretations we make. Changing these deeply ingrained patterns of thought can be a complex and contentious process.

Q: What is a fact? Isn’t the experience of the spiritual world as factual to Gautama Buddha as the condensation of energy that we call matter is to our everyday consciousness?

A: What constitutes a “fact” can depend on one’s epistemological perspective – that is, how one defines knowledge and what one considers to be valid sources or proofs of knowledge. From a strictly empirical or scientific standpoint, a fact is something that has been observed and confirmed through repeatable experiments or measurements. From a more phenomenological or experiential standpoint, a fact could include subjective experiences and personal truths.

So, while the condensation of energy into matter is a fact in the empirical scientific sense, the experience of the spiritual world was a fact in the personal experiential sense for Gautama Buddha. Each is factual within its respective domain of knowledge, but they represent different types of facts and different ways of knowing.

Q: Is the intuition a “different way of knowing”?

A: Yes, intuition is often considered a different way of knowing. It’s a process that gives us the ability to know something directly without analytic reasoning, bridging the gap between the conscious and nonconscious parts of our mind, and between instinct and reason.

Intuition can be thought of as a rapid, automatic process that occurs without conscious awareness. It’s like an “inner sensing” or a sudden insight that comes without any logical explanation. Some people describe intuition as a form of “knowing without knowing why you know”.

While intuition isn’t always accurate and is influenced by past experiences and subconscious biases, it can sometimes lead to insights that escape more analytical approaches to problem-solving. It’s often used in decision-making, problem-solving, and understanding human behavior, and is particularly valuable in complex and uncertain situations where information is incomplete or ambiguous.

However, it’s important to note that intuition is different from empirical and scientific ways of knowing. Scientific knowledge relies on empirical evidence and logical reasoning, while intuitive knowledge is more subjective and less easily quantified or verified. Both forms of knowledge have their strengths and limitations, and they can complement each other in our quest to understand and navigate the world.

Q: The scientific method can also be biased, correct? Both methods may be subject to bias.

A: Absolutely, both scientific inquiry and intuitive ways of knowing can be subject to bias.

In science, bias can creep in during the design of experiments, the collection or analysis of data, the interpretation of results, or the publication of findings. For instance, confirmation bias can lead researchers to favor data that supports their hypothesis and overlook data that contradicts it. Similarly, publication bias can result in studies with positive results being more likely to get published than those with negative or inconclusive results.

Bias in science is a well-recognized issue, and there are numerous strategies in place to mitigate it, such as double-blind studies, peer review, and the replication of studies by independent researchers. However, these methods aren’t foolproof, and bias can still influence scientific knowledge.

As for intuition, it’s inherently subjective and influenced by personal experiences, emotions, and subconscious biases. For example, an individual might have an intuitive feeling about something based on past experiences, even if those experiences aren’t representative or relevant to the current situation. Or, they might intuitively favor one option over another due to unconscious biases or preferences.

Both forms of knowledge – scientific and intuitive – have their strengths and limitations. Recognizing and accounting for bias is essential in both cases to ensure as accurate and objective understanding as possible.

Q: How would you control for bias in the intuitive method?

A: Controlling for bias in the intuitive method can be challenging due to its subjective nature, but there are strategies that can help:

  1. Awareness: The first step is to become aware of your own biases. Reflect on how your past experiences, emotions, and personal beliefs might be influencing your intuition.
  2. Mindfulness and Emotional Balance: Practice mindfulness to stay present and avoid being swayed by emotional biases. Emotional balance can help you differentiate between intuition and emotional reactions.
  3. Seeking Diverse Perspectives: Intuition is personal, but you can still gain insights by seeking out diverse perspectives. Other people may have different intuitions, and discussing these can broaden your understanding.
  4. Critical Thinking: Even when relying on intuition, it’s important to apply critical thinking. Question your intuitive insights and look for evidence that supports or contradicts them.
  5. Reflection and Learning: Reflect on times when your intuition was right and when it was off the mark. What were the circumstances? Can you spot any patterns? Learning from past experiences can help fine-tune your intuition over time.
  6. Balancing Intuition with Other Forms of Knowing: While intuition can provide valuable insights, it’s not always reliable. Balance it with other forms of knowing, such as empirical evidence and logical reasoning, to make well-rounded decisions.

Remember, intuition is a tool, not an infallible guide. It can provide valuable insights, but like any tool, it needs to be used judiciously and in conjunction with other tools to yield the best results.

Sources (cited by AI):

On the fifth Ray of Concrete Knowledge or Science, we find the Master Hilarion, who, in an earlier incarnation was Paul of Tarsus. … His is the energy which, through His disciples, is stimulating the Psychical Research groups everywhere, and He it was Who initiated, through various pupils of His, the Spiritualistic movement. He has under observation all those who are psychics of the higher order, and assists in developing their powers for the good of the group, and in connection with certain of the devas of the astral plane He works to open up to the seekers after truth that subjective world which lies behind the grossly material.

–Initiation, Human and Solar by Alice A. Bailey, p. 59

The fiery Yoga of Synthesis — Agni Yoga — burns the dross of personal biases and opinions in approaching the certainty of intuitive FACTS. -JB

https://agniyoga.info/

According to my Master’s predictions and warnings, I was able to advance much more rapidly, burning the dross of my karmic destiny and accelerating the process by which, and for cosmic reasons, I was able to consciously penetrate the great initiatory current. What is being done in my life is no longer my own concern. I must let “what is still written in my aura” be fulfilled, without vain interference, letting it burn as remains or dross of my karmic past, without daring to intervene directly, submissively letting my solar Angel to transmute “with the burning fire of His love” as much of it as possible with the passing of time. My only duty, in this respect, is to remain in serene expectancy about the course of events and to develop the fiery faculties [of the intuitive sense] that arise from detachment and dispassion about my personal life.

A Disciple’s Secret Diary by Vicente Beltrán-Anglada

Paranormal Beliefs

Understanding Paranormal Beliefs: Myths and Facts

Introduction

Paranormal beliefs have always been a subject of fascination and intrigue for people across the globe. These beliefs are often portrayed in pop culture and literature, but many people genuinely believe in the existence of paranormal phenomena. A 2005 Gallup poll found that three in four Americans hold at least one belief in the paranormal, with ESP being the most common. From ghosts to aliens, from telepathy to extrasensory perceptions, many paranormal beliefs have prevailed in our society. In this blog post, we will discuss what paranormal beliefs are (from the reductionistic perspective of the current psychological paradigms), how they are measured, and their prevalence in society. We will also explore some research findings and the factors that influence paranormal beliefs.

Section 1: Measurement of Paranormal Beliefs

Paranormal beliefs are measured using various scales and questionnaires. These measurements help researchers evaluate a person’s belief in paranormal phenomena. The most commonly used measurement is the Belief in Paranormal Scale (BPS). It measures the extent to which an individual believes in paranormal phenomena such as ghosts, precognition, and superstitions. The reliability of these measurements varies and depends on the validity of the questions used.

The most common paranormal beliefs include ghosts, psychic abilities, UFOs, reincarnation, and the afterlife. People who believe in these phenomena genuinely claim they have witnessed or experienced incidents that cannot be explained by conventional science.

Section 2: Demographics of Paranormal Believers

Paranormal beliefs are found to have higher prevalence among certain demographics. Low education, youth, females, and people working in non-scientific fields have higher incidence of paranormal beliefs. The correlation between paranormal beliefs and education is one of the most studied relationships in the literature. Individuals with a higher level of education tend to be more skeptical of paranormal beliefs.

On the other hand, women are found to believe more in paranormal phenomena than men. The reason behind this gender difference is not clear, but it is believed that women are socialized to be more empathetic, intuitive, and attuned to spiritual experiences. Additionally, younger generations tend to be more open to paranormal beliefs. As people age, they often become more skeptical. Lastly, those working in non-scientific areas tend to believe in the paranormal more than those working in the scientific fields.

Section 3: Relationship between Cognitive Ability and Paranormal Beliefs

The relationship between cognitive ability and paranormal beliefs is complex. Some studies suggest that lower cognitive abilities are linked to higher paranormal beliefs. People may be more prone to paranormal beliefs if they have difficulty assessing reality or reasoning logically.

Belief in conspiracy theories and other “epistemically unwarranted beliefs” has also been shown to have negative impacts on cognitive processes. Research has linked these beliefs with lower educational attainment, reduced analytical thinking, and even increased illusory pattern perception. Those who hold conspiracist beliefs may also show a decreased need for cognition and cognitive reflection, as well as biases against confirmatory and dis-confirmatory evidence. These factors can all contribute to what is known as hindsight bias, making it difficult to separate fact from fiction.

However, some research suggests that paranormal beliefs can actually help to improve cognitive abilities. Paranormal beliefs often involve high levels of imagination and creativity. They may encourage people to question the world around them, learn more about science, and think outside the box.

Section 4: Factors Influencing Paranormal Beliefs

Several factors influence paranormal beliefs, including motivation, emotions, and belief systems. People often believe in paranormal phenomena to find comfort, meaning, or solace in their lives. For example, belief in afterlife can help individuals deal with the fear of death.

Emotions also play a crucial role in shaping paranormal beliefs. People often believe in paranormal things after experiencing intense emotional events. These events can be positive, such as birth, marriage, or winning the lottery, or negative, such as illness, death, divorce, or trauma.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, paranormal beliefs are prevalent in society, and they are shaped by various factors such as education, gender, age, cognitive abilities, emotions, and belief systems. While the relationship between cognitive abilities and paranormal beliefs is not clear, more research is needed to understand it better. Despite the allure of a good conspiracy theory, it’s important to approach these ideas with a critical eye and a healthy amount of skepticism. Understanding the factors that shape paranormal beliefs can lead to a better understanding of how people make sense of their world. It can also help us comprehend and support those who genuinely believe in paranormal phenomena.

Reference: Paranormal beliefs and cognitive function: A systematic review and assessment of study quality across four decades of research

Another perspective

https://noetic.org/science-of-channeling-book/

Written by IONS Director of Research, Helané Wahbeh (a clinically trained naturopathic physician and scientist who hails from a long line of trance channelers), this unique book is for anyone interested in trying to make sense of a psychic or anomalous experience, or who wants to know more about the rigorous science-based research of common but not well-understood phenomenon.

This is not the stuff of science fiction: the multi-pronged IONS Channeling Research Program described in this book sheds light on the scientific evidence demonstrating the human ability to access information from beyond the known boundaries of space and time. The book provides an overview of this research while also providing suggestions to cultivate your abilities.

The Science of Channeling is essential for anyone asking the big questions about consciousness, extended human capacities, or their own noetic potential. Whether you’re new to the world of parapsychology or have been reading about it for years, this book will give you rich insight into how channeling works and how you can open to a deep font of universal wisdom.

Institute of Noetic Sciences

Overcoming Glamour

  • Glamour — the sum total of human ignorance, fear and greed — is a world problem tasked to a specialized group of spiritual aspirants to dispel, dissipate and devitalize its three expressions in the mental, emotional and physical planes, respectively.
  • Alice A. Bailey’s book “Glamour: A World Problem” discusses these three expressions of Glamour as: illusion (mental), glamour (emotional) and maya (caused by illusion and glamour, resulting in the “vital unthinking emotional mess” of our daily lives). The Dweller on the Threshold is a composite of these three — the Monster within all of us — to be transformed and rendered harmless, but useful for service, by the transmutation and transfiguration powers of the Angel of the Presence, the Soul.
  • Maya must be subjected to the inspiration and idealism of the emotional plane; glamour to the illumination of the mental plane; illusion to the light of the intuition; and the Dweller on the Threshold must be confronted by the Angel of the Presence, our Higher Self or Soul.
Assagioli’s transpersonal model .

“The need for the service of men and women free from illusion and glamour, has never been so dramatically present as it is today, and it is for these potential servers of a desperate necessity that I have written.”

The Tibetan Master via Alice A. Bailey

Two Essays on Glamour

The Three Expressions of Glamour and the Role of the Group of Trained Observers: A Path towards Reality

In today’s world, our perception of reality is often distorted by a potent force known as glamour. Glamour, in this context, is not simply about fashion or beauty; it is a powerful tool that manipulates our interpretation of reality. This illusion is expressed through three forms: illusion, glamour, and maya.

Illusion refers to false beliefs or misconceptions that we hold about ourselves or the world around us. For example, the belief that success is only measured in monetary terms is an illusion that can lead individuals to disregard other forms of fulfillment such as personal growth or relationships.

Glamour, in its second form, refers to emotional biases that cloud our judgement and distort our perception of reality. An example is the ‘halo effect’, where an individual’s overall impression of a person influences their feelings and thoughts about that person’s character or properties.

Maya represents our attachment to the physical world and material possessions, which can distract us from acknowledging our inner self and spiritual essence. The obsession with material wealth and physical appearance is a manifestation of maya.

These three expressions of glamour can profoundly influence our understanding of reality, leading us astray from truth and objective discernment. This is where the Group of Trained Observers steps in.

The Group of Trained Observers is a collective dedicated to promoting critical inquiry and dispelling false beliefs. Through ethical journalism and factual research, they work to deconstruct illusions and glamours that pervade society. Their mission aligns with the ethos of truth-seeking and combating misinformation.

One notable achievement of this group was debunking a widely spread conspiracy theory. By employing rigorous fact-checking and presenting well-researched evidence, they were able to dispel the false beliefs held by many, thus breaking the illusion.

Critical inquiry plays an essential role in countering glamour. It involves questioning our assumptions and biases, seeking diverse perspectives, and relying on reliable information sources.

According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, individuals who engage in critical thinking are less likely to fall prey to false information. Such engagement promotes truth-seeking and encourages a broader understanding of the world beyond one’s immediate perceptions.

In conclusion, the three expressions of glamour – illusion, glamour, and maya – have a profound effect on our perception of reality. The Group of Trained Observers plays a crucial role in combating these distortions through their dedication to ethical journalism and critical inquiry. By questioning our assumptions and biases, we can break free from the hold of glamour and move closer to truth and understanding.

Overcoming Glamour: Understanding the Causes and Misconceptions

Glamour is a worldwide problem that affects all aspects of life. It infiltrates our beliefs, creates illusions, and skews our perception of what is important and valuable. There is a dire need for specialized spiritual aspirants who can dispel glamour and combat this illusory influence. Alice A. Bailey’s book “Glamour: A World Problem” provides valuable insights into the nature of Glamour. The Group of Trained Observers shoulders the responsibility of combating glamour with activities such as ethical journalism and promoting scientific thinking. In this essay, we will explore the three expressions of Glamour, understand the role of the Group of Trained Observers, and discuss how to dispel, dissipate, devitalize it.

Glamour, a term often associated with beauty and elegance, may seem like a trivial concern in today’s world, but it is in fact a major problem that affects people on a global scale. However, not everyone has the knowledge or tools to combat this issue, which is why an inner group of spiritual aspirants specialized in this field, the Group of Trained Observers, are tasked to work on it.

An outer expression of this subjective group is well-balanced, independent, and ethical journalism. Another expression are the scientists presenting factual evidence to dissipate rumors and conspiracy theories.

The Three Expressions of Glamour
Glamour has three expressions: illusion, glamour, and maya. Illusion refers to false beliefs and models that lead to distorted perceptions of reality. Glamour, in contrast, refers to emotional attachments and biases that distort one’s sense of what is truly important and valuable. Maya represents the combined influence of illusion and glamour, creating a powerful veil of deception that renders truth elusive. These expressions create a complex web of influences that can profoundly affect our perceptions and decisions.

The Group of Trained Observers
The Group of Trained Observers is a group of individuals equipped with the skills and knowledge to fight Glamour. Activities such as ethical journalism, and the scientific method producing factual evidence, are applied to counter false beliefs and promote critical inquiry. They understand the importance of promoting truth and understanding while dispelling illusions and false beliefs. Examples of successful efforts by the Group of Trained Observers include fact-checking news sources, debunking conspiracy theories, and providing well-researched and credible evidence to their audience.

Critical inquiry is the power to question our assumptions and beliefs about the world. It empowers us to dissipate and dispel glamour and illusions by seeking out reliable sources of information and avoiding sensationalist or emotionally-driven content. Critical inquiry promotes truth-seeking and encourages us to engage with people from different backgrounds to expand our perspectives of the world.

In conclusion, science and journalism play a vital role in combating glamour as a global problem. The Group of Trained Observers shoulders the responsibility of dissipating glamour through activities such as ethical journalism and promoting scientific thinking skills. Critical inquiry is a crucial tool in dispelling illusions, false beliefs, and promoting truth-seeking. As a reader, it’s important to seek out credible sources of information and evaluate content critically. It’s also essential to engage with people from different backgrounds to expand our perspectives of the world and avoid falling into the trap of glamour. Together, we can fight glamour and promote truth, understanding, and empathy.

Comments:

#1: Many of us have grown up with certain ideas about the world around us that have been ingrained in us from a young age. But what if some of those beliefs were actually misconceptions? This book challenges the reader’s preconceived notions and prompts them to reconsider their understanding of these concepts. With insightful analysis and thought-provoking reflections, this book is sure to open minds and encourage deeper exploration of the mysteries of our world.

#2: Glamour can be caused by negative emotional focus, unclear attitudes of mind, and selfish thoughts. Negative emotional focus can lead to distorted perceptions of reality, and unclear attitudes of mind can keep us stuck in patterns that don’t serve us. Selfish thoughts can make us believe that our wants and needs are the only things that matter. Some examples of how these manifest in daily life include constantly comparing ourselves to others, focusing on material possessions, and basing our self-worth on external validation.

#3: Working with energy forces can be a powerful tool in overcoming glamour, but it requires careful consideration and measures to ensure safety. It’s important to approach this work with a selfless motivation and pure personality. Working in groups can also be beneficial in creating a supportive environment and sharing positive energy. However, safety measures are crucial, such as setting boundaries and being aware of energetic imbalances.

#4: Working in groups is crucial when it comes to dealing with energy forces that aim to help humanity. However, it’s not enough to work with just any group. The members of the group must have a selfless motivation and pure personality. This is because dealing with energy forces requires a level of focus and concentration that can easily be compromised by negative energy and selfish intentions. It’s important to surround oneself with people who have the same intentions and are willing to put the needs of others above their own. By working in such groups, safety is guaranteed and the uplifting of humanity is accomplished.

https://www.ipsgeneva.com/en/ngws/new-group-of-world-servers