Rupert Sheldrake, a biologist and author renowned for his theory of morphic resonance, delves into the clash between innovative ideas and established scientific dogma. He discusses the rigidities of scientism, methods to test for telepathy, and the importance of intuition in research. Sheldrake also reflects on the historical suppression of groundbreaking theories and the need for a more open-minded scientific community. Additionally, he explores how emerging perspectives on consciousness may bridge the gap between science and spirituality.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Sheldrake's Heretic Branding
Rupert Sheldrake was branded a heretic and apostate by mainstream science authorities.
Sir John Maddox condemned his book as heresy, comparing him to Galileo historically condemned by the Church.
insights INSIGHT
Science Dogmatism Critiqued
Sheldrake aims to liberate science from materialist dogmatism and scientism.
He faces hostility because many see his work as offensive to their scientific beliefs.
insights INSIGHT
Dogma and Institutional Science
Science became dogmatic in the 17th century, linking laws of nature to God's mind.
Modern institutional science rewards conformity and restricts independent, unconventional research.
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Rupert Sheldrake's "Dogs That Know When Their Owners Are Coming Home" presents compelling evidence for animal telepathy. The book details experiments conducted with dogs and their owners, demonstrating that dogs often anticipate their owners' return home, even when the return time is random. Sheldrake's research challenges conventional scientific understanding of animal cognition and communication. The book explores the nature of consciousness and the potential for non-local connections between minds. It has sparked significant debate and further research into animal perception and telepathic abilities.
The New Inquisition, Irrational Rationalism and the Citadel of Science
The New Inquisition, Irrational Rationalism and the Citadel of Science
Irrational Rationalism and the Citadel of Science
Robert Anton Wilson
Robert Anton Wilson's 'The New Inquisition' examines the clash between scientific orthodoxy and unconventional thinking. It critiques the tendency within science to suppress ideas that challenge established paradigms. Wilson argues that a form of 'irrational rationalism' can lead to the rejection of potentially valuable insights. The book explores historical and contemporary examples of scientific controversies. It questions whether the pursuit of knowledge is sometimes hindered by rigid adherence to prevailing beliefs. 'The New Inquisition' encourages a more open-minded and critical approach to scientific inquiry.
What the Tortoise Said to Achilles
What the Tortoise Said to Achilles
Lewis Carroll
In this 1895 paper, Lewis Carroll presents a thought-provoking dialogue between Achilles and the Tortoise, exploring the concept of infinite regress in logical arguments. The Tortoise challenges Achilles to use logic to force him to accept the conclusion of a simple deductive argument. However, the Tortoise leads Achilles into an infinite sequence of hypotheticals, demonstrating that even if one accepts all the premises, there is no logical necessity to accept the conclusion. This paradox highlights the difficulties in the foundations of logic and the nature of deductive reasoning.
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
Robert Pirsig
This classic novel by Robert M. Pirsig is a personal and philosophical odyssey that delves into the author's search for meaning. The narrative follows a father and his son on a summer motorcycle trip from the Midwest to California, intertwining a travelogue with deep philosophical discussions. The book explores the concept of 'quality' and how it informs a well-lived life, reconciling science, religion, and humanism. It also touches on the author's own struggles with his past and his philosophical quest, making it a touching and transcendent exploration of human experience and endeavor.
The Fifth Science
Exurb1a
The Fifth Science is a collection of 12 interconnected science fiction stories that delve into themes of existentialism, the nature of reality, and the ethical dilemmas posed by scientific progress. Set in a future where humans have mastered the manipulation of matter and consciousness, the narratives challenge readers to consider the consequences of humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Rationality
From AI to Zombies
Eliezer Yudkowsky
A new science of life
the hypothesis of formative causation
Rupert Sheldrake
Rupert Sheldrake's "A New Science of Life" proposes the controversial theory of morphic resonance, suggesting that nature is organized by fields of influence that extend beyond physical objects. This theory challenges conventional biological understanding by suggesting that inherited characteristics are influenced by a collective memory of past forms. Sheldrake's work has been met with both criticism and support, sparking debates about the limitations of traditional scientific paradigms. The book explores the implications of morphic resonance for various biological phenomena, including evolution, development, and behavior. It challenges the materialistic view of life and proposes a more holistic and interconnected understanding of the natural world.
The science delusion
Rupert Sheldrake
In 'The Science Delusion', Rupert Sheldrake argues that the current scientific paradigm is based on assumptions that have become dogmatic and limit the scope of scientific inquiry. He challenges ten fundamental dogmas of materialism, such as the belief that all reality is physical, the world is a machine made of dead matter, and consciousness is purely a product of brain activity. Sheldrake proposes that these assumptions should be treated as questions rather than facts and suggests alternative theories, including his concept of 'morphic resonance'. The book aims to open up new possibilities for scientific inquiry and to encourage a more skeptical and enquiring approach to science[2][4][5].
Hello everyone, Jim here. We're taking a brief two-week break from new episodes to spotlight a couple of golden oldies from the Infinite Loops archive. Years later, these remain some of my favorite conversations. We’ll be back soon with fresh episodes, but in the meantime, enjoy this trip back to February 2024, when we welcomed the one and only Rupert Sheldrake.
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Rupert Sheldrake is a biologist and author of 9 books and over 100 scientific papers. A critic of what he sees as the scientific establishment’s dogmatic dedication to materialism, he is perhaps best known for his theory of “morphic resonance,” via which information and activity can be transferred across space and time. Rupert joins the show to discuss being branded a heretic, how to test for telepathy, his advice for young scientists, and MUCH more!
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