2011
Cosmos and Consciousness IX | Center for New Knowledge: 2011 Events Archive: October | August | July | June | January |
Cosmos & Consciousness IX
The Continuity of Consciousness:
Cosmic, Human, Animal and Plant
Saturday, September 17, 2011
10 am—5 pm
at
The Rangeley Inn, Rangeley, Maine
Premium Weekend Package
September 16-18, 2011
Click Here for Details
Featured Speakers
Jonathan Balcombe, PhD
Author of Second Nature; Pleasurable Kingdom; and The Exultant Ark
Rudy Schild, PhD
Harvard-Smithsonian Astrophysicist, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Cosmology
Hillary Webb, PhD
Managing Editor, Anthropology of Consciousness
Author Traveling Between the Worlds and Exploring Shamanism
Hosts
Trish Corbett and Michael Mannion
Co-Founders, The Mindshift Institute
General Admission: $75
Income-Sensitive Admission Available - Call 917-817-4465 for details
Student Admission Free
The Continuity of Consciousness
“…the enormous problem of consciousness has been haunting philosophers for thousands of years and natural scientists for hundreds of years, without anybody so far finding a solution. I personally regard it as the most difficult and most decisive problem facing all of natural science.”
--Wilhelm Reich, August 1943
Despite the great advances in mechanistic science, and the enormous efforts of those investigating consciousness, we still lack an understanding of its nature. Although we do not understand what consciousness is, research into this mysterious phenomenon has expanded greatly in recent years.
Neuroscientists studying consciousness focus on the brain. They are trying to figure out how brain structure and processes create what we call consciousness. Over 60 years ago, Reich wrote about “how brain mythology dominated science for decades.” And this mythology is still dominating scientific inquiry today.
Proponents of the neuroscientific study of consciousness consider their work to be in its infancy. However, Alva Noe, a professor of philosophy at UC Berkeley and author of Out of Our Heads, rejects the claim that this field is in its infancy. In his view, that is a false analogy because it implies that science will progress through adolescence, adulthood and maturity with deepening comprehension of the nature of consciousness. Noe writes, “A better image might be that of inexperienced hikers out on the trails without any clear idea where they are: they are lost and don’t even know it.”
It has become increasingly obvious that consciousness is not confined to the brain of the human animal. And it is being recognized more widely that consciousness is a phenomenon that exists throughout Nature. We find evidence of it in all living things. In fact, at every level of existence that is explored, from the microscopic to the cosmic, scientists are now finding evidence of “Mind” or consciousness.
In her book, What Is Life?, evolutionary biologist Lynn Margulis has written, “At even the most primordial level, living seems to entail sensation, choosing, mind.” According to Dr. Edgar Mitchell, the most fundamental aspect of consciousness can be observed in the quantum process of nonlocality, in which two entangled subatomic particles “know” what happens to each other instantaneously and without regard to distance. There is a continuity of consciousness in Nature. But what is its basis?
To find an answer to that question requires that we step outside the framework of our present-day worldview. David J. Chalmers, a highly regarded philosopher of consciousness, wrote in The Conscious Mind: In Search of a Fundamental Theory, “Temperamentally, I am inclined toward materialist reductive explanation [of consciousness]…I hoped for a materialist theory; when I gave up on this hope, it was quite reluctantly…Materialism is a beautiful and compelling view of the world, but to account for consciousness, we have to go beyond the resources it provides….And the expansion in the worldview has had a positive effect, at least for me…”
An example of a science with an expanded worldview is Orgonomy, the science of the Life Energy. Perhaps an approach to a greater understanding of consciousness is to be found in the investigation of primordial cosmic Life Energy in Cosmic Superimposition by Wilhelm Reich. In this book, Reich writes about the contact between the bioenergy of the living organism and the Life Energy itself, which is at the root of understanding ourselves, self-perception and self-awareness, consciousness, and Life. These concepts are outside the mechanistic materialist-metaphysical worldview of today. But things are changing, however slowly, and such new concepts are receiving serious attention.
An expansion of worldviews is definitely in store for all who participate in this year’s Cosmos and Consciousness conference. We will travel far, over new territory, as we encounter expanded views of consciousness in the cosmos, ourselves, in animals and plants. We will also examine the phenomenon of an aware and self-aware Life Energy that is at the basis of the many expressions of consciousness in Nature.
Our Exciting Speakers
Animal Consciousness and Emotions
Jonathan Balcombe, PhD
Dr. Balcombe was born in England and raised in New Zealand and Canada. He studied biology at Canada’s York University and Carleton University before earning a PhD in ethology (animal behavior) from the University of Tennessee. He has written over 40 scientific papers and book chapters, and many lay articles on animal behavior and animal protection. Dr. Balcombe is the Animal Studies Department Chair for Humane Society University.
A popular speaker, Dr. Balcombe has given invited presentations on six continents. He is the author of Second Nature: The Inner Lives of Animals; Pleasurable Kingdom: Animals and the Nature of Feeling Good; and The Exultant Ark: A Pictorial Tour of Animal Pleasure. His blog, “The Inner Lives of Animals,” has appeared online at Psychology Today, One Green Planet, Best Thinking, Secretary of Innovation and on his own website. He now works as a consultant near Washington, DC. In his spare time he enjoys nature-watching, biking, piano, vegan cooking and trying to understand his two cats.
For centuries, we believed that humans were the only ones that mattered; the only ones with emotions and consciousness. The idea that animals had thoughts and feelings was either dismissed or considered heresy. Today, that’s all changing. New scientific studies of animal behavior reveal perceptions, intelligences, awareness, social skills and virtues that would have been deemed fantasy a generation ago.
Careful scientific studies now show that animals are aware of themselves and others, are capable of complex cognitive tasks, and can experience long-term emotional states. Perhaps most important, there is now evidence that animals are as sensitive to pain and as vulnerable to suffering as humans. The paradox is that, as our understanding of animal sentience grows, our treatment of them falls further behind and becomes more inhumane.
Dr. Balcombe will present information that informs, enlightens, and empowers us. His captivating examples show that animals are acutely sentient—aware, perceptive, intelligent, pleasure-seeking, communicative, sociable, and virtuous. In addition to sharing the latest knowledge about animal consciousness and emotions, he will show us how to take personal responsibility for developing more compassionate relationships to animals and to help bring about positive change through informed daily lifestyle choices.
Quantum Processes, Nature’s Mind and the Human Mind
Rudy Schild, PhD
Dr. Schild, an astrophysicist and cosmologist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, is highly regarded professionally for his work on gravitational lensing, baryonic dark matter and the study of quasars and black holes. He is the author of over 200 articles published in peer-reviewed professional publications. In addition, he is the Editor-in-Chief of the highly successful—and fascinating—online publication, the Journal of Cosmology, which now has over 50,000 unique visitors each month. Dr. Schild has been part of the “Mindshift Team” since 1999 and has spoken at many of our annual conferences.
Dr. Schild will share with us his new insights into quantum physics processes that are observable in the cosmos and that also appear to play a key role in consciousness. He has connected his recent astronomical observations with important new ideas in science and consciousness studies, especially investigations into the zero-point energy field and the work of Dr. Edgar Mitchell on quantum holography. When these new bodies of knowledge are integrated, our view of the nature of the Universe and our place in it is altered dramatically.
We now know that the energy emitted by all objects in our universe, living and nonliving, contains information about the life history of those objects in what are called “quantum holograms.” Dr. Schild’s recent astrophysical observations of black holes, or what he now calls MECOs (Magnetic Eternally Collapsing Objects) indicate that this information is stored up at the relativistic surfaces of the MECO objects in structures that act like “memory membranes” of what Edgar Mitchell refers to as “Natures Mind.”
And this goes much further. It appears that this information—about all that was, is, or shall be--is theoretically retrievable using quantum nonlocality. It seems as if contemporary science is discovering functions in the energy field of space that are similar to what the ancients called the Akashic Record. Dr. Schild will lead us in an engaging exploration of the quantum physics processes that are at play in both “Nature’s Mind” and the human mind.
Exploring the Enigma Of Human Consciousness
Hillary Webb, PhD
Dr. Hillary Webb was Research Director at The Monroe Institute, a nonprofit research and education institute dedicated to the exploration of human consciousness. Dr. Webb earned a PhD in psychology from Saybrook University in 2009 and a Master’s Degree in the philosophy of mind from Goddard College in 2006. She is currently managing editor of the journal Anthropology of Consciousness and the author of Traveling Between the Worlds; Exploring Shamanism; and also the upcoming autoethnography, Yanantin and Masintin in the Andean World: Complementary Dualism in Modern Peru (University of New Mexico Press, 2012).
In her talk, Dr. Webb will explore a variety of questions regarding researchers, explorers, practitioners, and educators who are creating new ways of coming to a better understanding of the enigma of human consciousness:
- In what ways are researchers around the world attempting to shed light on this topic?
- Is it even possible to understand human consciousness or is this field of study like trying to understand the dark by turning on a light?
- Is it possible to bring together the many disparate, but ultimately complementary, techniques that exist to work toward a deeper understanding of human consciousness?
- Can the much-needed collaboration between the quantitative (objective) and qualitative (subjective) approaches to comprehending consciousness be successfully achieved?
Dr. Webb will raise these and other profound questions that will certainly lead to further discussion and exploration among us all.
Consciousness in Plants and Throughout Nature
Trish Corbett and Michael Mannion
Trish Corbett will share with us what she has learned about the intelligence of the heart and its crucial role in the direct perception of Nature. In antiquity, many cultures located consciousness in the heart. Because of this they had the capacity to connect their own consciousness with other living organisms, including plants. In our culture, we do not understand that the heart is an organ of perception and communication. However, this lost knowledge is being re-discovered today through exciting work by many different people.
In the 18th Century, the great poet Goethe spent much of his life studying plants. He saw that Nature in general and plants in particular were striving and changing for the internal satisfaction of wholeness. He was among the first to see that plants made “choices.” In the 19th century, scientists discovered that plants had the capacity to perform many complex actions, such as transmuting one element into another (e.g. calcium into potassium).
In the 20th Century, Cleve Backster, then America’s foremost lie detector examiner, found that plants are sentient. He proved that they display emotion; can read the mind of a human who is planning to hurt them; differentiate between real and pretended intent; and react strongly to the death of other living beings in their environment. More recent studies of plants have demonstrated they are capable of very sophisticated feats. For example, in less than 20 minutes from the time a caterpillar begins feeding on its leaves, a plant will pluck carbon from the air and create defensive compounds from scratch. These volatile chemicals also serve as cries for help. They attract both large predatory insects like dragonflies, and small parasitic insects that infect the caterpillar and destroy it from within.
Dorothy McClean, a founder of Findhorn, teaches people how to make a conscious connection with the consciousness of plants. From a broader perspective, this work is about healing the alienation from Nature produced by our technological culture. It can help contribute to new attitudes and perspectives that move us toward the creation of a new worldview.
Michael Mannion will explore the phenomenon of a physical Life Energy that appears at times to be aware and self-aware. He will discuss the connection between this Life Energy and the manifestations of consciousness being investigated in the cosmic, human, animal and plant realms. Is the Life Energy a force in Nature that is the underlying unity that connects all the variations of consciousness we have been exploring? His presentation will lead into an interactive workshop that we believe will be stimulating for us all.
Premium Weekend Package
COSMOS AND CONSCIOUSNESS IX:
The Continuity of Consciousness
An Exciting Weekend in Rangeley, Maine
September 16-18, 2011
The Mindshift Institute is presenting an exciting day-long conference with a deeper weekend experience from September 16-18, 2011. The first eight Cosmos and Consciousness conferences have demonstrated that participating in this weekend is indeed a special opportunity. In addition, Rangeley provides a wonderful setting for expansive thinking and exploration.
While the one-day conference on Saturday, September 17 is open to the public, we want to invite you to join us for an extraordinary weekend with the Mindshift speakers: Jonathan Balcombe PhD; Rudy Schild, PhD; and Hillary Webb, PhD. You will have a rare opportunity to spend one-on-one time with these creative individuals who are making important contributions to the new worldview now emerging.
Because we want to ensure that each participant has time to connect with the presenters, there are only a limited number of places available for the Premium Weekend Package. All activities will take place at The Rangeley Inn and include:
- A special evening Friday with the speakers and fellow guests; including dessert, coffee, tea, soft drinks and wine
- Admission to the Saturday conference itself
- An excellent dinner on Saturday night with much stimulating conversation
- Sunday breakfast together and a thought-provoking morning session with the presenters and the weekend guests
The cost for this unique weekend is $325. This does not include lodging. We recommend that the weekend participants stay together at The Rangeley Inn. After you sign up with us for the weekend, you will need to call The Rangeley Inn at 1-800-MOMENTS to reserve your room.
The reservations for the weekend will be filled on a first-come, first served basis. Because many participants join us year after year, some reservations have already been made. We encourage you to call us soon at 917-817-4465 or email us at Info@mindshiftinstitute.org. We look forward to seeing you for a special weekend!
Trish Corbett and Michael Mannion
The Mindshift Institute
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To Register at the Door: Check or cash only; no credit cards accepted at the door.
To register by Mail: Make your check payable to The Mindshift Institute and mail it to The Mindshift Institute, 3 West 87th Street #1D, New York, NY 10024 Attn: Trish Corbett
Income-Sensitive Admission: Call 917-817-4465 for details.
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Center for New Knowledge: 2011 Events Archive
October 2011 Programs
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August 2011 Programs
August 26-27, 2011
Join Us for Our Exciting
Life Energy-Worldview Weekend
Trish and I would love it if you would join us for a weekend of exploration, on August 26-27, into a new way of knowing that can help us more deeply understand the nature of the universe and our exciting place in it.
This new way of knowing opens the possibility for an enormous shift in worldview--in each of us and in our society--through an understanding of Life Itself. This new approach challenges existing ways of knowing--mechanistic and materialistic as well as metaphysical and mystical.
We invite you to participate in the co-creation of a profound and enlivening new offering of The Mindshift Institute at our Center for New Knowledge in Northampton MA.
This event consists of two parts: (1) a Friday night gathering (7-9:30 pm) at which we will all meet one another and the overall theme of Life Energy and Worldviews will be introduced; and (2) a Saturday workshop (10 am-5 pm) with morning and afternoon sessions.
We will send an information packet about this weekend to those who register for it.
Our goal is to introduce a body of new knowledge and have the group be prepared to engage that body of knowledge directly. This will be done through reading before the weekend and active participation during the gathering. There will be required reading for all participants (selected chapters from a few books..about 60 pages)). If you do not have the time to do the reading, then this workshop is not for you.
We will be using a format in which comments during the Saturday workshop must relate directly to the texts and subject at hand. This is not an event at which information will be presented and then followed by the expression of various opinions. We really want the discussion to be about further understanding the new knowledge we are presenting.
Are you available on the weekend of August 26-27, 2011? We know you will have a rewarding experience and hope that you can join us.
The cost for the Friday night-Saturday program is $35.
To have enough time for us to mail you the reading the material, and for you to read it, you will need to register by the first week of August.
And we have a special offer for those of you who participate in our exciting weekend:
If you register before August 1, you can deduct the price of this course from the admission fee for our September 16-18 conference in Rangeley, ME:
Cosmos and Consciousness IX:
The Continuity of Consciousness.
Cosmic, Human, Animal and Plant
If you have any questions, or want to register for the August 26-27 event at our center, email us or call us at 413-587-4004.
All the best,
Trish and Michael
The Mindshift Institute
The Mindshift Institute, 114 Main St. 2nd floor, Northampton, MA 01060
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July 2011 Programs
Thursday, July 28, 7pm
Join Us For a Great Movie!
Resurrection
We are excited to announce that we will be showing the excellent 1980 film RESURRECTION, starring Ellen Burstyn and Sam Shepard, on Thursday, July 28 at 7 pm. It is a powerful tale of conflict that is, unfortunately, as relevant today as it was when it was released 30 years ago.
The story is gripping and moving. The screenplay is brilliant. Ellen Burstyn and Sam Shepard are outstanding, as are all of the character actors. We don't want to spoil the film by telling too much about the details of the story. The film beautifully captures the interconnectedness of love, healing and anomalous phenomena and dramatically portrays the conflicts that arise in our human struggles to understand and explain extraordinary experiences.
We hope you can join us. There is no admission but a donation will be greatly appreciated--and needed!
Trish and Michael
The Mindshift Institute
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June 2011 Programs
Friday June 24 at 7pm
Life Beyond Earth
Trish Corbett and Michael Mannion
The beginning of summer is also a great time for some consciousness-expanding challenges to the unexamined assumptions that underlie the worldview that guides us all in our day-to-day life.
On Friday, June 24 at 7 pm, we invite you to join us at the Center for New Knowledge, for an intriguing exploration of our evolving understanding of Life Beyond Earth, including the subjects of UFOs and intelligent extraterrestrial life.
Why are we having this event on June 24th? Because it is the day generally considered the birthday of the modern UFO era in America. It was on Tuesday, June 24, 1947, that a well-respected businessman from Boise, Idaho was flying near the Cascade Mountains in Washington State when he saw nine bright objects flying at an incredible speed at an altitude of about 10,000 feet. He later described the objects to newsmen as moving through the skies "with a skipping motion, like saucers skipping off water." This comment gave birth to the term "flying saucers."
We are not offering "the answer" or even "answers." We are not engaging in so-called "conspiracy theories" or wild speculations. But we will provide a great deal of information that we hope will lead us to ask the right questions--a pre-requisite for finding the correct answers. For example,
- Why does the topic of UFOs make many serious people smile or smirk--or even get angry?
- Why are UFOs so popular in science fiction, sensationalized TV shows and tabloid journalism but not in "real" life?
- Why has mankind been interested in the question of Life Beyond Earth for its entire recorded history?
- Why do those who look into the UFO phenomenon seriously come away with an accurate sense of its great importance?
- What patterns have we observed in this phenomenon that can help us to understand it better?
- What is the new relationship that is now possible between science and UFO studies?
In the past, scientists and "ufologists" (i.e., those studying the UFO phenomenon) were in an adversarial relationship. The majority view in science has long been been that life is an accidental, random event that happened only once--here on Earth. It is too great an accident to have occurred elsewhere in the cosmos. There are no UFOs or extraterrestrials because there is no life in the universe other than that on Earth. End of story. Now, let's get back to serious science--like making tens of thousands of thermonuclear weapons, for instance.
However, there has been what we call a "Silent Revolution" in science over the past 15 years or so. The majority view in science is now that life is integral to creation; it exists throughout the universe; and may even have been present almost from the very origins our spacetime.
Today, because of great advances in the scientific exploration of space, and of our own planet, we have a deepening understanding of life and its many and varied potential habitats. As a result, a younger generation of scientists and ufologists may find they now can be allies, and not adversaries as were their predecessors, in the search for Life Beyond Earth and a deeper understanding of who we are and what our place in the universe is.
We're looking forward to seeing you all!
Trish Corbett and Michael Mannion
Center for New Knowledge
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January 2011 Programs
Thursday, January 6th at 7pm
Center for New Knowledge Open House Party
We are going to start the New Year at the Center for New Knowledge with a special evening on Thursday, January 6, 2011 (the 12th day of Xmas). Last year's party on this date was well-attended and lots of fun.
Our open house party is a celebration of the beginning of a new year and also an opportunity to let you know what will be happening at the Center in the coming months.
In the Christian tradition, January 6 is a holy day known as the Epiphany, the day the three wise men from the East found the baby Jesus. In the Mindshift tradition, we focus on another meaning of the word epiphany: "a sudden and profound insight into the true nature of reality." It is our hope that by introducing people to new knowledge that has the power to broaden and deepen our picture of reality, some will experience their own "epiphany."
Save the date and join us for a joyful start to 2011 and to learn more about the exciting Mindshift Worldview Course that will begin at the Center in late January.
Happy and Merry Everything to Everyone!
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