A Deep Dive into Complexity: A Scientific Theory of Connection, Consciousness, and Being
Complexity theory, as proposed by Neil Theise1, explores how life self-organizes from the substance of our universe. This includes everything from interactions within quantum foam to the formation of atoms and molecules, cells, human beings, social structures, ecosystems, and beyond. The theory promotes the idea that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. In his work, Theise intertwines the discoveries of Western science with Eastern metaphysical traditions, drawing on his Zen Buddhist practice2 to provide a holistic exploration of reality. This approach challenges our conventional understanding of individual and collective existence.
What is the complexity theory as proposed by Neil Theise in his work “Notes on Complexity: A Scientific Theory of Connection, Consciousness, and Being”?
Complexity theory, as proposed by Neil Theise, explores how life self-organizes from the substance of our universe. This includes everything from interactions within quantum foam to the formation of atoms and molecules, cells, human beings, social structures, ecosystems, and beyond. It suggests that complex systems manifest as a vast, self-organizing system and its emergent properties are everything. The theory promotes the idea that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Unveiling the Intricacies of Human Existence
In his compelling piece titled “Notes on Complexity: A Scientific Theory of Connection, Consciousness, and Being” Neil Theise, a renowned Buddhist scientist, delivers an incisive perspective on the profound mystery of human existence. His words resonate with what quantum pioneer Erwin Schrödinger propounded that “This life of yours which you are living is not merely a piece of the entire existence, but is in a certain sense the whole.”
We, as atoms with consciousness, have achieved a great deal over the past century, from decoding the human genome to discovering possible worlds beyond our Solar System. Yet, our understanding of the universe and our place within it is nebulous. Every day brings forth new revelations about our existence, our consciousness, and our connection to the universe.
The Mystery Within and Without
In his work, Theise proposes a fusion of empirical science, philosophy, and metaphysics to illustrate the universe and its minutest parts “as nothing but a vast, self-organizing, complex system, the emergent properties of which are… everything.”
Theise defines the cornerstone of his exploration as the complexity theory, which examines how complex systems manifest in the world. It explores how life self-organizes from the substance of our universe, from interactions within the quantum foam to the formation of atoms and molecules, cells, human beings, social structures, ecosystems, and beyond.
Contemplating Complexity Theory
A hundred years after Schrödinger’s profound statement that “the over-all number of minds is just one,” Theise suggests that the ultimate reward of viewing reality through the lens of complexity theory can foster a valuable flexibility of perspectives. It can awaken us to our deep intimacy with the larger whole, enabling us to reclaim our birthright of being one with all.
The concept of emergent phenomena, like ant colonies, like crowds, like consciousness3, is central to complexity theory. These phenomena don’t arise from any top-down planning but emerge from local interactions, a fact that reinforces the idea of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts.
Quantum Theory and Complementarity
Addressing the paradox of our subjective experience as autonomous selves, distinct in space and time, Theise draws on Neils Bohr’s concept of complementarity. This idea suggests that two different views of reality can both be true but not simultaneously. To describe reality, we need to choose between the two, ensuring that the internal validity of one doesn’t interfere with the other.
The Miracle of Cellular Continuity
This is more than just a metaphysical perspective — it’s a profoundly physical fact, which cells, in their remarkable state of continual renewal, exemplify. This cellular turnover is an endless process of atomic recycling and replacement, a testament to our deep connection with our planet.
The Planck Scales of Existence
At the smallest, Planck scales, particles emanate from space-time and dissolve back into it. It’s a phenomenon that challenges our understanding of existence and non-existence. In the face of this enigma, Theise offers a comforting thought: we don’t just live in the universe; we embody it.
Bridging Western Science and Eastern Metaphysics
In his work, Theise intertwines the discoveries of Western science with Eastern metaphysical traditions, drawing on his Zen Buddhist practice to provide a holistic exploration of reality. This approach allows him to see the whole as greater than the sum of its parts, a view that challenges our conventional understanding of individual and collective existence.
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Neil Theise, a scientist and Buddhist, has proposed a theory called complexity theory, which explores how life organizes itself in our universe. This theory suggests that complex systems, such as atoms, cells, and ecosystems, are more than just the sum of their individual parts. Theise combines Western science with Eastern metaphysical traditions to provide a holistic understanding of reality. He also discusses the idea of emergent phenomena, where complex systems arise from local interactions. Theise’s work challenges our conventional understanding of individual and collective existence and encourages us to see ourselves as connected to the larger whole.