The Science of Consciousness

Big Think offered this article

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That’s funny. I started my directives.

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"Yes, it’s a remarkable fact that, with just the four fundamental forces in the Universe of gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong-and-weak nuclear forces, we can form atomic nuclei, atoms, molecules, life, complex-and-differentiated life, where consciousness emerges, and some of those conscious beings can study the Universe itself. "

These 4 fundamental forces really interest me. The fact that the Gravitational pull of all objects influences all the other objects in the universe has fascinated me deeply for decades.

The article suggests electricity may be the culprit, but would not shock me if gravity also plays a huge role, or is the main culprit.

The fact that an electric current produces an magnetic field is also really cool, meaning all living beings w electron flow produce one.

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Not really related but like that these videos show the complexity:

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On the last Dream Sangha meeting, we had an enriching share among attendees. A topic arose regarding a mural painted by a Mexican artist of someone floating in a dream state. It reminded me of an old commissioned painting I did on an imagined after-death experience. The painting is entitled “Invitation to the Dance.”

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This one is a real mind blower to me, and makes me wonder if the dark matter of the universe may be tied to particles disappearig out of existance, and then re manifesting.

So surreal if true.

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Thats great to hear. From one of Andrew’s courses, if I remember correctly he said anyone over 18 should complete this.

I worked with ChatGPT-4o to try to expand and include his reasons why (not necessarily directed to you but just a general post as to why this activity is so important).


It’s wonderful to hear that you have started your directives. This aligns well with the principles of Bodhisattva activity as taught in various Buddhist traditions. By creating clear directives and reducing ambiguity for those who succeed you, you indeed contribute to minimizing karmic entanglements.

Unloading Belongings and Attachments

Unloading material belongings and attachments can significantly reduce karmic entanglements. As explained on Zen-Buddhism.net, attachment arises from our desire to cling to experiences, people, and things. This clinging is one of the primary causes of suffering because it creates dependency and expectation, leading to disappointment and frustration when those attachments are disrupted or lost. By practicing non-attachment, we can break free from this cycle and achieve greater peace and happiness.

The process of letting go is further elaborated by Thich Nhat Hanh, who emphasizes that happiness does not come from the consumption of things but from living without attachment. He states, “My actions are my only true belongings.” This means that our actions, or karma, are what truly persist beyond our physical existence (AlanPeto.com).

Writing Clear Directives and Medical Wills

Creating clear directives and medical wills is also a form of practicing right intention, one of the components of the Noble Eightfold Path. Right intention involves being resolved on renunciation, freedom from ill will, and harmlessness. By ensuring that your directives are clear and well thought out, you are practicing a form of right intention that benefits those who come after you and minimizes confusion and potential suffering (Majjhima Nikaya).

Writing a clear will and medical directives helps prevent disputes and misunderstandings among loved ones, allowing them to act according to your wishes without added stress or conflict. This aligns with the teachings on non-attachment by reducing emotional and psychological burdens on those left behind. For practical guidance on this, sources such as Tiny Buddha recommend focusing on present actions and making meaningful contributions now, rather than being overly attached to future outcomes or past events (TinyBuddha.com).

Bodhisattva Activity and Karmic Entanglement

Engaging in Bodhisattva activities, such as creating directives that help others, is a way to cultivate compassion and wisdom, essential qualities on the path to enlightenment. This practice reduces karmic entanglement by promoting actions that lead to the well-being and peace of others. By letting go of personal attachments and focusing on the greater good, you contribute positively to the karmic balance, reducing the likelihood of negative repercussions in future lives (Tricycle.org).

In conclusion, by aligning your actions with the principles of non-attachment and right intention, you not only cultivate a path of less karmic entanglement for yourself but also pave the way for others to follow a clearer and more harmonious path. This is a profound way to embody the teachings of the Bodhisattva path and achieve greater peace and contentment in your life and the lives of those around you. For more insights, you can explore additional resources on Learn Religions and Elephant Journal.

[There may be an occasional error in linking to the correct sutta due to the available training data.]


Also, here are some sites that make this process easier:

Buddhist Spiritual Care Directives

Five Wishes

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The article seems to provide support to the Panpsychism theory of consciousness

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