Abstract

AbstractThis article is an introduction to a philosophical approach termed “panspiritism.” The fundamental principles of this approach are summarized, with discussion of how it links to earlier (mainly Eastern) philosophical perspectives, how it differs from panpsychism and its relationship to idealism and theism. Issues such as the relationship between mind and matter, the relationship between the mind and the brain, and the emergence of mind are discussed from a “panspiritist” perspective. There is a discussion of how panspiritism relates to mystical experiences. The article concludes by suggesting that this approach can help to elucidate a wide range of phenomena that appear anomalous or problematic from a materialist point of view.

Highlights

  • This article is an introduction to a philosophical approach termed “panspiritism.” The fundamental principles of this approach are summarized, with discussion of how it links to earlier philosophical perspectives, how it differs from panpsychism and its relationship to idealism and theism

  • One of the attractions of panpsychism over materialism is that it avoids the “emergence problem” of how mind could emerge from matter

  • One area I do not have space to examine fully here is the explanatory power of panspiritism

Read more

Summary

Panspiritist Perspectives in the History of Philosophy

What I am here describing as panspiritism is by no means a novel perspective. The idea that the essence of reality is a nonmaterial, spiritual quality (without necessarily adopting an idealist position that spirit is the only reality) seems to be one of the oldest and most common cross-cultural concepts in the history of the world This does not necessarily enhance the validity of the approach, but I believe it is useful to consider the rich and wide variety of panspiritist perspectives that have emerged in different contexts, before I go on to discuss my own approach in greater detail. In addition to their animistic beliefs in spirits that could inhabit and influence phenomena, many indigenous groups developed concepts of a fundamental spiritual principle, which has some similarity with panspiritism.

The Emergence of Matter
The Emergence of Mind
The Role of the Brain
Panspiritism and Evolution
Mystical Experiences and Fundamental Consciousness
Panspiritism and Idealism
Panspiritism and Theism
Alienation from Fundamental Consciousness
Conclusion
Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call