Inner Life, Talks and Thoughts
Does nature really obey laws? A dialogue with Rupert Sheldrake
May 20, 2025
Rupert Sheldrake, a biologist and author renowned for his ideas on morphic resonance, dives into the intriguing evolution of natural laws. He questions the long-standing assumption that nature follows strict laws, tracing its roots to Francis Bacon. The discussion tackles whether laws of nature might be more akin to habits influenced by evolution rather than rigid commands. They explore the universe as a living organism versus a machine, and how creativity and purpose shape life. Sheldrake even considers how miracles could coexist with the flexibility of natural laws.
41:52
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast examines how Francis Bacon's philosophies shifted the perception of natural laws from divine manifestations to abstract principles within scientific rationalism.
- Recent discussions suggest that understanding the universe as evolving habits rather than fixed laws allows for a more dynamic view of divine presence and natural phenomena.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Natural Laws
The discussion highlights how the concept of natural laws has evolved significantly from its philosophical roots. Early figures like Francis Bacon redefined the understanding of these laws, shifting from Aristotle's notion of causal relationships to a more modern interpretation, which includes inference from observations. Bacon emphasized that laws are not merely abstract principles; rather, they often carry a divine connotation, suggesting that natural laws reflect a divine order in the cosmos. This transition established a clearer distinction between the older theological perspectives and the emerging scientific framework, leading to a more impersonal view of laws in later centuries.
