Spiritual Science

Synopsis

A mindfulness expert whose work has been hailed by Eckhart Tolle as "an important contribution to the shift in consciousness" offers a new vision of reality-one that is compatible with modern science and ancient spirituality.

"With elegance and lucidity, Steve Taylor explains why spiritual science is the only hope for humanity." -Deepak Chopra

It is often assumed that there are two ways of interpreting the world: a rational scientific way, or an irrational religious way. Mindfulness expert, Steve Taylor, shows that there is a third possibility-a spiritual, or "panspiritist", view of reality that transcends both conventional science and religion, recognizes spirit or consciousness as fundamental, and answers many of the riddles that neither can explain.

Here, Taylor puts forward the evidence for a spiritual view of reality and examines the development and consequences of the materialist model. Drawing on the insights of philosophers, physicists, mystics, as well as spiritual traditions and indigenous cultures, he also systematically shows how a 'panspiritist' view can explain many puzzling aspects of science and the world such as:

 human consciousness
 altruism
 near-death experiences
 telepathy and pre-cognition
 quantum physics
 the placebo effect
 neuroplasticity

A compelling argument for a new vision of reality, Spiritual Science offers a bright vision of the world as sacred and interconnected, and of human life as meaningful and purposeful.

Summary

Chapter 1: What is Spiritual Science?

Spiritual science, also known as anthroposophy, is a philosophy that seeks to understand the nature of humanity and the world through spiritual insights. It combines elements of philosophy, science, art, and religion to explore the relationship between the physical and spiritual realms.

Example: Anthroposophical medicine recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit and seeks to treat patients holistically, considering their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Chapter 2: The Human Being

Spiritual science views the human being as a complex being composed of a physical body, an etheric body (an energetic counterpart), an astral body (the seat of emotions and desires), and an ego (the individual's conscious self). It emphasizes the need for balanced development of all aspects of the self.

Example: Waldorf education, inspired by anthroposophy, focuses on the development of the child's intellectual, artistic, and physical capacities to promote holistic growth.

Chapter 3: The World

Spiritual science sees the world as a manifestation of spirit. It recognizes the existence of a spiritual hierarchy that guides the evolution of both the human and natural realms. The individual has a role to play in this evolutionary process by striving for higher consciousness.

Example: Biodynamic agriculture, guided by anthroposophical principles, seeks to harmonize the rhythms of nature and create a sustainable and ecologically balanced farming system.

Chapter 4: The Path of Spiritual Development

Spiritual science encourages a path of spiritual development that involves self-knowledge, meditation, and connection to a higher power. It recognizes that each individual has a unique destiny to fulfill and that the journey of spiritual growth is both challenging and rewarding.

Example: Eurythmy, an anthroposophical movement practice, helps individuals cultivate self-awareness, coordination, and a connection to the spiritual realm.

Chapter 5: The Future of Humanity

Spiritual science offers a vision of a future in which humanity embraces its spiritual potential and creates a society based on compassion, cooperation, and environmental stewardship. It believes that the human spirit has the power to transform the world.

Example: The Anthroposophical Society, founded by Rudolf Steiner, works worldwide to promote social and environmental renewal based on spiritual principles.