The Mind of a Rock

riNews, Post Materialist Science5 Comments

Most of us have no doubt that our fellow humans are conscious. We are also pretty sure that many animals have consciousness. Some, like the great ape species, even seem to possess self-consciousness, like us. Others, like dogs and cats and pigs, may lack a sense of self, but they certainly appear to experience inner states of pain and pleasure. About … Read More

Consciousness and Non-Duality

riPhilosophy, Post Materialist Science, Thoughts4 Comments

IONS Interview: Amit Goswami Even today, the tendency is to look at consciousness dualistically — consciousness separate from matter. This position is not compatible with science; so scientists have emphasized material monism/everything is matter philosophy. We show that this is not compatible with quantum physics. We then develop a fully paradox-free idea of monistic idealism — everything is consciousness. We discuss … Read More

The Secret Life of Moody Cows

riFeatured, Post Materialist Science, Thoughts12 Comments

ONCE they were a byword for mindless docility. But cows have a secret mental life in which they bear grudges, nurture friendships and become excited over intellectual challenges, scientists have found. Cows are also capable of feeling strong emotions such as pain, fear and even anxiety — they worry about the future. But if farmers provide the right conditions, they … Read More