1. HUL 288 Science and Humanism Development of Materialistic and Mechanistic worldview alongside growth in Science and Technology & Implications of Materialistic Worldview and Modern Predicament

2. In the course so far Modern Technology & Human Welfare Benefits and detriments of Modern Technology Benefits and detriments of Modern Technology In-depth study of fundamental traits of modern technology essential In-depth study of fundamental traits of modern technology essential Human Welfare : Does Modern Technology deliver? Human Welfare : Does Modern Technology deliver? Propelling force behind MT : Materialism Propelling force behind MT : Materialism

3. In the course so far Development of MWV Socratic Platonic Thought : Super-sensible world, Right Knowledge, The Idea of Good Socratic Platonic Thought : Super-sensible world, Right Knowledge, The Idea of Good Christian Worldview Christian Worldview Emergence of Scientific Worldview Emergence of Scientific Worldview Science-Religion Conflict Science-Religion Conflict Establishment of MWV Establishment of MWV

4. Definitions of Humanism "...seeking, without religion, the best in, and for, human beings." Chambers Pocket Dictionary "...a doctrine, attitude, or way of life centered on human interests or values; especially: a philosophy that usually rejects supernaturalism and stresses an individual's dignity and worth and capacity for self-realization through reason." Merriam Webster Dictionary "A system of thought that centers on humans and their values, capacities, and worth." American Heritage Dictionary

5. "...a non-religious philosophy, based on liberal human values." "...a non-religious philosophy, based on liberal human values." Little Oxford Dictionary "That which is characteristically human, not supernatural, that which belongs to man and not to external nature, that which raises man to his greatest height or gives him, as man, his greatest satisfaction." Encyclopedia of the Social Sciences "...an appeal to reason in contrast to revelation or religious authority as a means of finding out about the natural world and destiny of man, and also giving a grounding for morality... Humanist ethics is also distinguished by placing the end of moral action in the welfare of humanity rather than in fulfilling the will of God." Oxford Companion to Philosophy "...an appeal to reason in contrast to revelation or religious authority as a means of finding out about the natural world and destiny of man, and also giving a grounding for morality... Humanist ethics is also distinguished by placing the end of moral action in the welfare of humanity rather than in fulfilling the will of God." Oxford Companion to Philosophy

6. Humanism Humanism is a broad category of ethical philosophies that affirm the dignity and worth of all people, based on the ability to determine right and wrong by appeal to universal human qualities—particularly rationality. Humanism is a broad category of ethical philosophies that affirm the dignity and worth of all people, based on the ability to determine right and wrong by appeal to universal human qualities—particularly rationality.ethical philosophiesrationalityethical philosophiesrationality It is a component of a variety of more specific philosophical systems, and is incorporated into several religious schools of thought. It is a component of a variety of more specific philosophical systems, and is incorporated into several religious schools of thought. philosophical

7. What is a Worldview ? One of the biggest problems of present society is the effect of overall change and acceleration on human psychology. Neither individual minds nor collective culture seem able to cope with the unpredictable change and growing complexity. One of the biggest problems of present society is the effect of overall change and acceleration on human psychology. Neither individual minds nor collective culture seem able to cope with the unpredictable change and growing complexity.change and accelerationchange and acceleration Stress, uncertainty and frustration increase, minds are overloaded with information, knowledge fragments, values erode, negative developments are consistently overemphasized, while positive ones are ignored. Stress, uncertainty and frustration increase, minds are overloaded with information, knowledge fragments, values erode, negative developments are consistently overemphasized, while positive ones are ignored. Stress, uncertainty and frustration increase Stress, uncertainty and frustration increase

8. What is a Worldview ? The resulting climate is one of nihilism, anxiety and despair. While the wisdom gathered in the past has lost much of its validity, we don't have a clear vision of the future either. As a result, there does not seem to be anything left to guide our actions. The resulting climate is one of nihilism, anxiety and despair. While the wisdom gathered in the past has lost much of its validity, we don't have a clear vision of the future either. As a result, there does not seem to be anything left to guide our actions. What we need is a framework that ties everything together, that allows us to understand society, the world, and our place in it, and that could help us to make the critical decisions which will shape our future. What we need is a framework that ties everything together, that allows us to understand society, the world, and our place in it, and that could help us to make the critical decisions which will shape our future.

9. What is a Worldview ? It would synthesize the wisdom gathered in the different scientific disciplines, philosophies and religions. It would synthesize the wisdom gathered in the different scientific disciplines, philosophies and religions. Rather than focusing on small sections of reality, it would provide us with a picture of the whole. Rather than focusing on small sections of reality, it would provide us with a picture of the whole. In particular, it would help us to understand, and therefore cope with complexity and change. Such a conceptual framework may be called a "world view". In particular, it would help us to understand, and therefore cope with complexity and change. Such a conceptual framework may be called a "world view".

10. Worldview (1/7) A model of the world It should allow us to understand how the world functions and how it is structured. "World" here means the totality, everything that exists around us, including the physical universe, the Earth, life, mind, society and culture. We ourselves are an important part of that world. Therefore, a world view should also answer the basic question: "Who are we?".

11. Worldview (2/7) Explanation The second component is supposed to explain the first one. It should answer the questions: "Why is the world the way it is? Where does it all come from? Where do we come from?". This is perhaps the most important part of a world view. If we can explain how and why a particular phenomenon (say life or mind) has arisen, we will be able to better understand how that phenomenon functions. It will also help us to understand how that phenomenon will continue to evolve.

12. Worldview (3/7) Futurology This extrapolation of past evolution into the future defines a third component of a world view: futurology. It should answer the question "Where are we going to?" It should give us a list of possibilities, of more or less probable future developments. But this will confront us with a choice: which of the different alternatives should we promote and which should we avoid? futurology

13. Worldview (4/7) Values This is the more fundamental issue of value: "What is good and what is evil?" The theory of values defines the fourth component of a world view. It includes morality or ethics, the system of rules which tells us how we should or should not behave. It also gives us a sense of purpose, a direction or set of goals to guide our actions. Together with the answer to the question "why?", the answer to the question "what for?", may help us to understand the real meaning of life. ethics

14. Worldview (5/7) Action Knowing what to strive for does not yet mean knowing how to get there, though. The next component must be a theory of action (praxiology). It would answer the question "How should we act?" It would help us to solve practical problems and to implement plans of action.

15. Worldview (6/7) Knowledge Plans are based on knowledge and information, on theories and models describing the phenomena we encounter. Therefore, we need to understand how we can construct reliable models. This is the component of knowledge acquisition. It is equivalent to what in philosophy is called "epistemology" or "the theory of knowledge". It should allow us to distinguish better theories from worse theories. It should answer the traditional philosophical question "What is true and what is false?" epistemology

16. Worldview (7/7) Building Blocks The final point on the agenda of a world view builder is not meant to answer any fundamental question. It just reminds us that world views cannot be developed from scratch. You need building blocks to start with. These building blocks can be found in existing theories, models, concepts, guidelines and values, scattered over the different disciplines and ideologies. This defines the seventh component: fragments of world views as a starting point.

17. Materialism In philosophy, materialism is that form of physicalism which holds that the only thing that can truly be said to exist is matter; that fundamentally, all things are composed of material and all phenomena are the result of material interactions; that matter is the only substance. In philosophy, materialism is that form of physicalism which holds that the only thing that can truly be said to exist is matter; that fundamentally, all things are composed of material and all phenomena are the result of material interactions; that matter is the only substance.philosophyphysicalism existmattersubstancephilosophyphysicalism existmattersubstance As a theory, materialism belongs to the class of monist ontology. As such, it is different from ontological theories based on dualism or pluralism. In terms of singular explanations of the phenomenal reality, materialism stands in sharp contrast to idealism. As a theory, materialism belongs to the class of monist ontology. As such, it is different from ontological theories based on dualism or pluralism. In terms of singular explanations of the phenomenal reality, materialism stands in sharp contrast to idealism.monist ontologydualismpluralismidealismmonist ontologydualismpluralismidealism

18. Materialism : Indian School ? Cārvāka is a system of Indian philosophy that assumed various forms of philosophical skepticism and religious indifference. It is also known as lokyāta. It is named after its founder, Cārvāka, author of the Bārhaspatya-sūtras. Cārvāka is a system of Indian philosophy that assumed various forms of philosophical skepticism and religious indifference. It is also known as lokyāta. It is named after its founder, Cārvāka, author of the Bārhaspatya-sūtras.Bārhaspatya-sūtras In overviews of Indian Philosophy, Carvaka is classified as a "heterodox" (nāstika) system, the same classifcation as is given to Buddhism and Jainism. In overviews of Indian Philosophy, Carvaka is classified as a "heterodox" (nāstika) system, the same classifcation as is given to Buddhism and Jainism.nāstika BuddhismJainismnāstika BuddhismJainism It is characterized as a materialistic and atheistic school of thought. While this branch of Indian philosophy is not considered to be part of the six orthodox schools of Hinduism, it is noteworthy as evidence of a materialistic movement within Hinduism. It is characterized as a materialistic and atheistic school of thought. While this branch of Indian philosophy is not considered to be part of the six orthodox schools of Hinduism, it is noteworthy as evidence of a materialistic movement within Hinduism.materialisticatheisticmaterialistic movement Hinduismmaterialisticatheisticmaterialistic movement Hinduism

19. Materialism : Indian School ? The name lokyāta can be traced to Kautilya's Arthashastra, which refers to three "logical philosophies", Yoga, Samkhya and Lokayata. Lokayata here still refers to logical debate (disputatio, "criticism") in general and not to a materialist doctrine in particular. The name lokyāta can be traced to Kautilya's Arthashastra, which refers to three "logical philosophies", Yoga, Samkhya and Lokayata. Lokayata here still refers to logical debate (disputatio, "criticism") in general and not to a materialist doctrine in particular.KautilyaYogaSamkhyaKautilyaYogaSamkhya Only from about the 6th century is the term restricted to the school of the Lokyātikas. Only from about the 6th century is the term restricted to the school of the Lokyātikas. The name cārvāka is first used in the 7th century by the philosopher Purandara, who refers to his fellow materialists as "the Carvakas", and it is used by the 8th century philosophers Kamalaśīla and Haribhadra. Shankara, on the other hand, always uses lokyāta, not cārvāka. The name cārvāka is first used in the 7th century by the philosopher Purandara, who refers to his fellow materialists as "the Carvakas", and it is used by the 8th century philosophers Kamalaśīla and Haribhadra. Shankara, on the other hand, always uses lokyāta, not cārvāka.Purandara KamalaśīlaHaribhadraShankaraPurandara KamalaśīlaHaribhadraShankara

20. Chatterjee and Datta explain that our understanding of Carvaka philosophy is fragmentary, based largely on criticism of the ideas by other schools, and that it is not a living tradition: Chatterjee and Datta explain that our understanding of Carvaka philosophy is fragmentary, based largely on criticism of the ideas by other schools, and that it is not a living tradition: "Though materialism in some form or other has always been present in India, and occasional references are found in the Vedas, the Buddhistic literature, the Epics, as well as in the later philosophical works we do not find any systematic work on materialism, nor any organised school of followers as the other philosophical schools possess. But almost every work of the other schools states, for refutation, the materialistic views. Our knowledge of Indian materialism is chiefly based on these.“ "Though materialism in some form or other has always been present in India, and occasional references are found in the Vedas, the Buddhistic literature, the Epics, as well as in the later philosophical works we do not find any systematic work on materialism, nor any organised school of followers as the other philosophical schools possess. But almost every work of the other schools states, for refutation, the materialistic views. Our knowledge of Indian materialism is chiefly based on these.“ Satischandra Chatterjee and Dhirendramohan Datta. An Introduction to Indian Philosophy. Eighth Reprint Edition. (University of Calcutta: 1984). p. 55. ]

21. Idealism Idealism is the doctrine that ideas, or thought, make up either the whole or an indispensable aspect of any full reality, so that a world of material objects containing no thought either could not exist as it is experienced, or would not be fully "real." Idealism is the doctrine that ideas, or thought, make up either the whole or an indispensable aspect of any full reality, so that a world of material objects containing no thought either could not exist as it is experienced, or would not be fully "real." Idealism is often contrasted with materialism, both belonging to the class of monist as opposed to dualist or pluralist ontologies. Idealism is often contrasted with materialism, both belonging to the class of monist as opposed to dualist or pluralist ontologies.materialismmonistdualistpluralistontologiesmaterialismmonistdualistpluralistontologies

22. Scientific Worldview 1500-1700 : Dramatic shift in worldview and value system which is the basis of human civilization 1500-1700 : Dramatic shift in worldview and value system which is the basis of human civilization This gave the basis for modern civilization’s Techno-Economic Paradigm for the last 300 years. This gave the basis for modern civilization’s Techno-Economic Paradigm for the last 300 years. Does this worldview need to be reexamined? Does this worldview need to be reexamined? Is this an urgent task? Is this an urgent task?

23. Worldviews prior to Scientific Worldview Pre- 1500 : Organic Living, Small Communities Pre- 1500 : Organic Living, Small Communities Interdependence of material and spiritual phenomena Interdependence of material and spiritual phenomena Medieval science based on both reason and faith, questions relating to God, human soul, ethics were of highest significance Medieval science based on both reason and faith, questions relating to God, human soul, ethics were of highest significance 16 th and 17 th centuries : This changed radically 16 th and 17 th centuries : This changed radically

24. Age of Scientific Revolution Revolutionary changes in physics, astronomy, culminating in achievements of Copernicus, Galileo and Newton Revolutionary changes in physics, astronomy, culminating in achievements of Copernicus, Galileo and Newton World-machine metaphor became dominant metaphor of modern era World-machine metaphor became dominant metaphor of modern era Science of 17 th century based on new method of enquiry, advocated forcefully by Francis Bacon Science of 17 th century based on new method of enquiry, advocated forcefully by Francis Bacon Mathematical description of nature and analytical method of reasoning conceived by Descartes Mathematical description of nature and analytical method of reasoning conceived by Descartes

25. Copernicus Copernicus Kepler Kepler Galileo : “scientists should restrict themselves to studying essential properties of material bodies – shapes, numbers and movement – which could be measured and quantified. Other properties like colour, sund, taste or smell, were merely subkective mental projections which should be excluded from the domain of science” Galileo : “scientists should restrict themselves to studying essential properties of material bodies – shapes, numbers and movement – which could be measured and quantified. Other properties like colour, sund, taste or smell, were merely subkective mental projections which should be excluded from the domain of science” Objective, Quantitative Enquiry Objective, Quantitative Enquiry

26. Implications of Galileo’s Objective Quantifiable Science R D Laing renowned psychiatrist : R D Laing renowned psychiatrist : “ Out go sight, sound, taste, touch and smell and along with them has since gone aesthetics and ethical sensibility, values, quality, form, all feelings, motives, intentions, soul, consciousness. Experience as such is cast out of the realm of scientific discourse.

27. Newtonian World Machine Cartesian Framework All science is certain, evident knowledge – Rene Descartes All science is certain, evident knowledge – Rene Descartes Vocation in life was to distinguish truth from error from all fields of learning Vocation in life was to distinguish truth from error from all fields of learning “We reject all knowledge which is merely probable and judge that only those things should be believed which are perfectly known and about which there can be no doubts” “We reject all knowledge which is merely probable and judge that only those things should be believed which are perfectly known and about which there can be no doubts” Belief in certainty of scientific knowledge – infallibility (we will examine this in next module) t Belief in certainty of scientific knowledge – infallibility (we will examine this in next module) t

28. Descartes method of analytic thought and view of nature have influenced al branches of science Descartes method of analytic thought and view of nature have influenced al branches of science Breaking up thoughts and problems in pieces and arranging them in logical order Breaking up thoughts and problems in pieces and arranging them in logical order Crux of Descartes’ method is RADICAL DOUBT – doubts everything he manages to doubt- all given knowledge, impressions of his senses, even the fact that he has a body- till he reachs one thing he cannot refute – his existence as a thinker – cogito ergo sum – I think, therefore, I am. Crux of Descartes’ method is RADICAL DOUBT – doubts everything he manages to doubt- all given knowledge, impressions of his senses, even the fact that he has a body- till he reachs one thing he cannot refute – his existence as a thinker – cogito ergo sum – I think, therefore, I am.

29. Without Descartes’ method, we may not have been able to implement sme of the gigantic scientific projects Without Descartes’ method, we may not have been able to implement sme of the gigantic scientific projects However, overemphasis of Cartesian method has led to fragmentation which is characteristic of all scientific (knowledge) enquiry today However, overemphasis of Cartesian method has led to fragmentation which is characteristic of all scientific (knowledge) enquiry today This is where the widespread attitude of reductionism in science stems from – the belief that all aspects of complex phenomena can be understood by reducing them to their constituent parts This is where the widespread attitude of reductionism in science stems from – the belief that all aspects of complex phenomena can be understood by reducing them to their constituent parts

30. Descartes’ cogito has made mind more certain than matter – and led him to the conclusion that the two were separate and fundamentally different Descartes’ cogito has made mind more certain than matter – and led him to the conclusion that the two were separate and fundamentally different “there is nothing in the concept of body that belongs to the mind; and nothing in that of mind which belongs to the body” “there is nothing in the concept of body that belongs to the mind; and nothing in that of mind which belongs to the body” This Cartesian division between mind and body has had a profound influence on Western thought This Cartesian division between mind and body has had a profound influence on Western thought

31. Cartesian Duality “Material Universe is a machine and nothing but a machine” “Material Universe is a machine and nothing but a machine” No purpose, life or spirituality in materNature worked acording to mechanical laws and everything in the material world could be explained in terms of he arrangement and movement of its parts No purpose, life or spirituality in materNature worked acording to mechanical laws and everything in the material world could be explained in terms of he arrangement and movement of its parts For Descartes, existence of God was essential to his scientific philosophy, but in subsequent centuries, scientists omitted any explicit reference to God and developed theories according to Cartesian division. For Descartes, existence of God was essential to his scientific philosophy, but in subsequent centuries, scientists omitted any explicit reference to God and developed theories according to Cartesian division. Humanities concerned with res cogitans (thinking thing) and sciences on res extensa (extended thing) Humanities concerned with res cogitans (thinking thing) and sciences on res extensa (extended thing)

32. Descartes Writing about Descartes, Schopenhauer claimed, DescartesSchopenhauerDescartesSchopenhauer "… he was the first to bring to our consciousness the problem whereon all philosophy has since mainly turned, namely that of the ideal and the real. This is the question concerning what in our knowledge is objective and what subjective, and hence what eventually is to be ascribed by us to things different from us and what is to be attributed to ourselves." According to Descartes, we really know only what is in our own consciousnesses. We are immediately and directly aware of only our own states of mind. The whole external world is merely an idea or picture in our minds. Therefore, it is possible to doubt the reality of the external world as consisting of real objects. “I think, therefore I am” is the only assertion that can’t be doubted. “I think, therefore I am” is the only assertion that can’t be doubted.

33. Newtonian Worldview Until the early 20th century, classical mechanics, as first formulated by Newton and further developed by Laplace and others, was seen as the foundation for science as a whole. Until the early 20th century, classical mechanics, as first formulated by Newton and further developed by Laplace and others, was seen as the foundation for science as a whole. It was expected that the observations made by other sciences would sooner or later be reduced to the laws of mechanics. It was expected that the observations made by other sciences would sooner or later be reduced to the laws of mechanics. Although that never happened, other disciplines, such as biology, psychology or economics, did adopt a general mechanistic or Newtonian methodology and world view. Although that never happened, other disciplines, such as biology, psychology or economics, did adopt a general mechanistic or Newtonian methodology and world view. This influence was so great, that most people with a basic notion of science still implicitly equate "scientific thinking" with "Newtonian thinking". This influence was so great, that most people with a basic notion of science still implicitly equate "scientific thinking" with "Newtonian thinking".

34. Newtonian Worldview The reason for this pervasive influence is that the mechanistic paradigm is compelling by its simplicity, coherence and apparent completeness. The reason for this pervasive influence is that the mechanistic paradigm is compelling by its simplicity, coherence and apparent completeness. Moreover, it was not only very successful in its scientific applications, but largely in agreement with intuition and common-sense. Moreover, it was not only very successful in its scientific applications, but largely in agreement with intuition and common-sense. Later theories of mechanics, such as relativity theory and quantum mechanics, while at least as successful in the realm of applications, lacked this simplicity and intuitive appeal, and are still plagued by paradoxes, confusions and multiple interpretations. Later theories of mechanics, such as relativity theory and quantum mechanics, while at least as successful in the realm of applications, lacked this simplicity and intuitive appeal, and are still plagued by paradoxes, confusions and multiple interpretations.

35. Newtonian Worldview The logic behind Newtonian science is easy to formulate, although its implications are subtle. Its best known principle, which was formulated by the philosopher-scientist Descartes well before Newton, is that of analysis or reductionism: to understand any complex phenomenon, you need to take it apart, i.e. reduce it to its individual components. The logic behind Newtonian science is easy to formulate, although its implications are subtle. Its best known principle, which was formulated by the philosopher-scientist Descartes well before Newton, is that of analysis or reductionism: to understand any complex phenomenon, you need to take it apart, i.e. reduce it to its individual components. If these are still complex, you need to take your analysis one step further, and look at their components. If these are still complex, you need to take your analysis one step further, and look at their components.

36. If you continue this subdivision long enough, you will end up with the smallest possible parts, the atoms (in the original meaning of "indivisibles"), or what we would now call "elementary particles". If you continue this subdivision long enough, you will end up with the smallest possible parts, the atoms (in the original meaning of "indivisibles"), or what we would now call "elementary particles". Particles can be seen as separate pieces of the same hard, permanent substance that is called matter. Newtonian ontology therefore is materialistic: Particles can be seen as separate pieces of the same hard, permanent substance that is called matter. Newtonian ontology therefore is materialistic:ontology It assumes that all phenomena, whether physical, biological, mental or social, are ultimately constituted of matter. It assumes that all phenomena, whether physical, biological, mental or social, are ultimately constituted of matter.

37. The only property that fundamentally distinguishes particles is their position in space (which may include dimensions other than the conventional three). The only property that fundamentally distinguishes particles is their position in space (which may include dimensions other than the conventional three). Apparently different substances, systems or phenomena are merely different arrangements in space of fundamentally equivalent pieces of matter. Apparently different substances, systems or phenomena are merely different arrangements in space of fundamentally equivalent pieces of matter. Any change, development or evolution is therefore merely a geometrical rearrangement caused by the movement of the components. This movement is governed by deterministic laws of cause and effect. Any change, development or evolution is therefore merely a geometrical rearrangement caused by the movement of the components. This movement is governed by deterministic laws of cause and effect.

38. If you know the initial positions and velocities of the particles constituting a system together with the forces acting on those particles (which are themselves determined by the positions of these and other particles), then you can in principle predict the further evolution of the system with complete certainty and accuracy. If you know the initial positions and velocities of the particles constituting a system together with the forces acting on those particles (which are themselves determined by the positions of these and other particles), then you can in principle predict the further evolution of the system with complete certainty and accuracy. The trajectory of the system is not only determined towards the future, but towards the past: given its present state, you can in principle reverse the evolution to reconstruct any earlier state it has gone through. The trajectory of the system is not only determined towards the future, but towards the past: given its present state, you can in principle reverse the evolution to reconstruct any earlier state it has gone through.

39. The elements of the Newtonian ontology are matter, the absolute space and time in which that matter moves, and the forces or natural laws that govern movement. The elements of the Newtonian ontology are matter, the absolute space and time in which that matter moves, and the forces or natural laws that govern movement. No other fundamental categories of being, such as mind, life, organization or purpose, are acknowledged. They are at most to be seen as epiphenomena, as particular arrangements of particles in space and time. No other fundamental categories of being, such as mind, life, organization or purpose, are acknowledged. They are at most to be seen as epiphenomena, as particular arrangements of particles in space and time.

40. Newtonian epistemology is based on the reflection- correspondence view of knowledge: our knowledge is merely an (imperfect) reflection of the particular arrangements of matter outside of us. The task of science is to make the mapping or correspondence between the external, material objects and the internal, cognitive elements (concepts or symbols) that represent them as accurate as possible. Newtonian epistemology is based on the reflection- correspondence view of knowledge: our knowledge is merely an (imperfect) reflection of the particular arrangements of matter outside of us. The task of science is to make the mapping or correspondence between the external, material objects and the internal, cognitive elements (concepts or symbols) that represent them as accurate as possible.epistemology reflection- correspondence view of knowledgeepistemology reflection- correspondence view of knowledge That can be achieved by simple observation, where information about external phenomena is collected and registered, thus further completing the internal picture that is taking shape. In the limit, this should lead to a perfect, objective representation of the world outside us, which would allow us to accurately predict all phenomena. That can be achieved by simple observation, where information about external phenomena is collected and registered, thus further completing the internal picture that is taking shape. In the limit, this should lead to a perfect, objective representation of the world outside us, which would allow us to accurately predict all phenomena.

41. Principle of Distinction Conservation All these different assumptions can summarized by the principle of distinction conservation (Heylighen, 1990): classical science begins by making as precise as possible distinctions between the different components, properties and states of the system under observation. All these different assumptions can summarized by the principle of distinction conservation (Heylighen, 1990): classical science begins by making as precise as possible distinctions between the different components, properties and states of the system under observation.distinction These distinctions are assumed to be absolute and objective, i.e. the same for all observers. The evolution of the system conserves all these distinctions, as distinct initial states are necessarily mapped onto distinct subsequent states, and vice-versa (this is equivalent to the principle of causality (Heylighen, 1989)). These distinctions are assumed to be absolute and objective, i.e. the same for all observers. The evolution of the system conserves all these distinctions, as distinct initial states are necessarily mapped onto distinct subsequent states, and vice-versa (this is equivalent to the principle of causality (Heylighen, 1989)). In particular, distinct entities (particles) remain distinct: there is no way for particles to merge, divide, appear or disappear. In other words, in the Newtonian world view there is no place for novelty or creation (Prigogine & Stengers, 1984): everything that exists now has existed from the beginning of time and will continue to exist, albeit in a somewhat different configuration. In particular, distinct entities (particles) remain distinct: there is no way for particles to merge, divide, appear or disappear. In other words, in the Newtonian world view there is no place for novelty or creation (Prigogine & Stengers, 1984): everything that exists now has existed from the beginning of time and will continue to exist, albeit in a somewhat different configuration. Knowledge is nothing more than another such distinction-conserving mapping from object to subject: scientific discovery is not a creative process, it is merely an "uncovering" of distinctions that were waiting to be observed. Knowledge is nothing more than another such distinction-conserving mapping from object to subject: scientific discovery is not a creative process, it is merely an "uncovering" of distinctions that were waiting to be observed.

42. In essence, the philosophy of Newtonian science is one of simplicity: the complexity of the world is only apparent; to deal with it you need to analyse phenomena into their simplest components. In essence, the philosophy of Newtonian science is one of simplicity: the complexity of the world is only apparent; to deal with it you need to analyse phenomena into their simplest components. Once you have done that, their evolution will turn out to be perfectly regular, reversible and predictable, while the knowledge you gained will merely be a reflection of that pre-existing order. Once you have done that, their evolution will turn out to be perfectly regular, reversible and predictable, while the knowledge you gained will merely be a reflection of that pre-existing order.

43. Rationality and modernity Up to this point, Newtonian logic is perfectly consistent--albeit simplistic in retrospect. But if we moreover want to include human agency, we come to a basic contradiction between our intuitive notion of free will and the principle of determinism. Up to this point, Newtonian logic is perfectly consistent--albeit simplistic in retrospect. But if we moreover want to include human agency, we come to a basic contradiction between our intuitive notion of free will and the principle of determinism.free willfree will The only way Newtonian reasoning can be extended to encompass the idea that people can act purposefully is by postulating the independent category of mind. The only way Newtonian reasoning can be extended to encompass the idea that people can act purposefully is by postulating the independent category of mind.

44. This reasoning led Descartes to propose the philosophy of dualism, which assumes that while material objects obey mechanical laws, the mind does not. This reasoning led Descartes to propose the philosophy of dualism, which assumes that while material objects obey mechanical laws, the mind does not. However, while we can easily conceive the mind as a passive receptacle registering observations in order to develop ever more complete knowledge, we cannot explain how the mind can freely act upon those systems without contradicting the determinism of natural law. This explains why classical science ignores all issues of ethics or values: there simply is no place for purposeful action in the Newtonian world view. However, while we can easily conceive the mind as a passive receptacle registering observations in order to develop ever more complete knowledge, we cannot explain how the mind can freely act upon those systems without contradicting the determinism of natural law. This explains why classical science ignores all issues of ethics or values: there simply is no place for purposeful action in the Newtonian world view. ethicsvalues ethicsvalues

45. At best, economic science has managed to avoid the problem by postulating the principle of rational choice, which assumes that an agent will always choose the option that maximises its utility. At best, economic science has managed to avoid the problem by postulating the principle of rational choice, which assumes that an agent will always choose the option that maximises its utility. Utility is supposed to be an objective measure of the degree of value, "happiness" or "goodness" produced by a state of affairs. Assuming perfect information about the utility of the possible options, the actions of mind then become as determined or predictable as the movements of matter. Utility is supposed to be an objective measure of the degree of value, "happiness" or "goodness" produced by a state of affairs. Assuming perfect information about the utility of the possible options, the actions of mind then become as determined or predictable as the movements of matter.happiness

46. This allowed social scientists to describe human agency with most of the Newtonian principles intact. Moreover, it led them to a notion of linear progress: the continuous increase in global utility (seen mostly as quantifiable, material welfare) made possible by increases in scientific knowledge. This allowed social scientists to describe human agency with most of the Newtonian principles intact. Moreover, it led them to a notion of linear progress: the continuous increase in global utility (seen mostly as quantifiable, material welfare) made possible by increases in scientific knowledge.progress Although such directed change towards the greater good contradicts the Newtonian assumption of reversibility, it maintains the basic assumptions of determinism, materialism and objective knowledge, thus defining what is often called the project of modernity. Although such directed change towards the greater good contradicts the Newtonian assumption of reversibility, it maintains the basic assumptions of determinism, materialism and objective knowledge, thus defining what is often called the project of modernity. determinism

47. Reductionism Reductionism is seen as the opposite of holism. Reductionism in science says that a complex system can be explained by reduction to its fundamental parts. Essentially, chemistry is reducible to physics, biology is reducible to chemistry and physics, and psychology and sociology are reducible to biology, etc.

48. Reductionist approach Reductionist approach : Isolate the problem, optimize parameters, achieve a sort of simplicity at the cost of overall complexity. Reductionist approach : Isolate the problem, optimize parameters, achieve a sort of simplicity at the cost of overall complexity. In the modern context, greater the sophistication, more redundant is the human being and his/her skill or judgement. In the modern context, greater the sophistication, more redundant is the human being and his/her skill or judgement.

49. Reductionist Approach Reductionist Science : Rational redefined to mean only its own method, excluding all else. One is free (and often encouraged) to reject the statements of religion or art but he/she who refuses to accept the basic scientific worldview runs the risk of being labelled ignorant, insane, or irrational.

50. Reductionist Approach of Modern Science Modern science has a reductionist approach. It isolates the problem, optimizes parameters, achieves a sort of simplicity at the cost of overall complexity. Modern science has a reductionist approach. It isolates the problem, optimizes parameters, achieves a sort of simplicity at the cost of overall complexity. In the modern context, greater the sophistication, more redundant is the human being and his/her skill or judgement. In the modern context, greater the sophistication, more redundant is the human being and his/her skill or judgement. Social and Environmental costs are not factored while computing efficiency / productivity. Social and Environmental costs are not factored while computing efficiency / productivity.

51. Reductionist Approach (contd) Reductionist Industrial processes are almost always at variance with life processes and with natural events. The fragmented nature of applied knowledge produces a reaction/response in the concept of the technological fix. This is no solution. It is postponement, for one becomes involved in an absurd merry-go-round of circular production of problems.

52. In Built Consequences of Technologies All technologies have consequences, inevitable and built in All technologies have consequences, inevitable and built in Norbert Wiener, the mathematician who was the founder of modern cybernetics, has written about "technical determinants" dictated by "the very nature" of machines, and of the steam engine he noted that it automatically leads to large and ever larger scales because it can power so many separate machines at once, to ever increasing production because it must pay back its high investment and operating costs, and to centralization and specialization because factors of efficiency and economy supersede those of, say, craftsmanship or esthetic expression. Norbert Wiener, the mathematician who was the founder of modern cybernetics, has written about "technical determinants" dictated by "the very nature" of machines, and of the steam engine he noted that it automatically leads to large and ever larger scales because it can power so many separate machines at once, to ever increasing production because it must pay back its high investment and operating costs, and to centralization and specialization because factors of efficiency and economy supersede those of, say, craftsmanship or esthetic expression.

53. In Built Consequences of Technologies Norbert Wiener might have added that it also necessarily leads to a Norbert Wiener might have added that it also necessarily leads to a reduction in face-to-face contacts, social discourse, reduction in face-to-face contacts, social discourse, human autonomy, human autonomy, individual choice, individual choice, personal skills personal skills none of which is especially important as far as the operation of the machine goes. none of which is especially important as far as the operation of the machine goes.

54. Holism Holism (from holos, a Greek word meaning all, entire, total ) is the idea that all the properties of a given system (biological, chemical, social, economic, mental, linguistic, etc.) cannot be determined or explained by the sum of its component parts alone. Instead, the system as a whole determines in an important way how the parts behave. Holism (from holos, a Greek word meaning all, entire, total ) is the idea that all the properties of a given system (biological, chemical, social, economic, mental, linguistic, etc.) cannot be determined or explained by the sum of its component parts alone. Instead, the system as a whole determines in an important way how the parts behave. The general principle of holism was concisely summarized by Aristotle in the Metaphysics : " The whole is more than the sum of its parts ". The general principle of holism was concisely summarized by Aristotle in the Metaphysics : " The whole is more than the sum of its parts ".

55. CRISIS OF MODERN SCIENCE / CIVILIZATION In the last two decades of the 20 th century, there has been a worldwide crisis in the areas of Health and livelihood Quality of environment Social Relationships Economy, Technology and Politics

56. CRISIS OF MODERN SCIENCE / CIVILIZATION (contd) Manifestations of the crisis are Acid rainHEALTH-CARE CRISIS Global WarmingUNEMPLOYMENT Energy CrisisHAZARDOUS CHEMICAL WASTE Inflation NATURAL RESOURCE DEPLETION Reduction in diversityMALDISTRIBUTION OF WEALTH Psychological Pathologies CRIME Are these isolated phenomena or are they inter- related and interdependent in some manner?

57. CRISIS OF MODERN SCIENCE / CIVILIZATION (contd) It is pertinent to realize that the dynamics underlying cancer, crime, pollution, nuclear power, energy shortage etc is the same. It is pertinent to realize that the dynamics underlying cancer, crime, pollution, nuclear power, energy shortage etc is the same. The problems listed above are systemic problems, closely related and interdependent and cannot be addressed by a reductionist worldview / narrow perception of reality. The problems listed above are systemic problems, closely related and interdependent and cannot be addressed by a reductionist worldview / narrow perception of reality.

58. Experts & Urgent Problems… ? Four fold threat of energy depletion, environmenal degradation, inflation and unemployment is a reality worldwide, not in developing countries alone Four fold threat of energy depletion, environmenal degradation, inflation and unemployment is a reality worldwide, not in developing countries alone Experts in their chosen fields can no longer deal with the urgent problems that have arisen in their area of expertise Experts in their chosen fields can no longer deal with the urgent problems that have arisen in their area of expertise Economists are unable to understand inflation, oncologists are quite clueless about the cause of cancer, psychiatrists are mystified by schizophrenia, police are helpless in the face of rising crime and terrorism, the list is a long one… Economists are unable to understand inflation, oncologists are quite clueless about the cause of cancer, psychiatrists are mystified by schizophrenia, police are helpless in the face of rising crime and terrorism, the list is a long one…

59. Linkages between phenomena Could there possibly be linkages between the use of toxic pesticides in agriculture and the increasing incidence of cancer worldwide?

60. SILENT SPRING Rachel Carson, 1962 “Considering the accumulated knowledge linking chemical and radioactive contamination of the environment with increasing breast cancer rates means we must focus our energies and efforts on prevention”. Early were the eloquent words and pleas for prevention from Rachel Carson. Her book, Silent Spring, originally published in 1962, while she herself was suffering from breast cancer, is still a bestseller.

61. SILENT SPRING (contd) Ms. Carson documented wholesale killing of species; animals, birds, fish, insects; the destruction of food and shelter for wild creatures; failure of reproduction; damage to the nervous system; tumors in wild animals; increasing rates of leukemia in children; and chronicled the pesticides and chemicals known at that time to cause cancer. This was over 40 years ago!

62. Linkages between Environmental Contamination and Cancer One successor to Ms. Carson has emerged in the person of Sandra Steingraber, an ecologist, poet, and scientist. In her book, Living Downstream, she writes eloquently of the connections between environmental contamination and cancer. Dr. Steingraber was diagnosed with bladder cancer at age 20, a highly unusual diagnosis in a woman, a young woman, a nonsmoker and nondrinker. She pursued the question, why? She realized a connection with our wild relations and she asks:

63. Linkages between Environmental Contamination and Cancer “Tell me, does the St. Lawrence beluga drink too much alcohol and does the St. Lawrence beluga smoke too much and does the St. Lawrence beluga have a bad diet... is that why the beluga whales are ill?... Do you think you are somehow immune and that it is only the beluga whale that is being affected?” Sandra Steingraber, an ecologist, poet, and scientist in her book, Living Downstream

64. Suicides among Vidarbha farmers rising (Dadham village, Amravati): Yogesh Pawar, NDTV Caught in a vicious spiral of debt and poverty, farmers in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra are left with no option but to commit suicide. In Maharahstra's cotton belt of Amravathi, Bhikaji Nathuji Gotmare's son Deepak, a farmer, killed himself two months ago. Deepak like hundreds of farmers in this part of India committed suicide because of crop failure and rising debt. The crop failed because of drought last year and floods this year and an attack of a cotton virus.

65. Suicides among Vidarbha farmers rising (Dadham village, Amravati): Yogesh Pawar, NDTV In 2001, there was one suicide every 10 days. By 2004, there was one suicide everyday. This year the rate of suicides have risen to two everyday. Is there a way out ?

66. Linkages between Industrialisation and unemployment? Could there possibly be linkages between increasing mechanization in production methods (IT included) and rising unemployment ? Could this be true for both the developed world and the developing world? Is this one of the many reasons why France burnt for weeks in the last year ?

67. Linkages between waste dispoal and health issues? Could there be linkages between disposal of sewage and other waste in water and the explosion in cases of water-borne diseases? The cheapest method of waste disposal in the cities is the nearest water channel / waterbody / river. The consequences for health are mindboggling.

68. Materialistic worldview  Materialism and Strife  Materialism and Ecology  Materialism and Dehumanisation  Man Nature dichotomy  Mind-Body Dichotomy

69. Materialism and Ecology Nuclear Power 1960s : “Atoms for Peace” 1960s : “Atoms for Peace” 1970s to 2000 : Military powers have competitively stockpiled nuclear warheads, Industrial World has been busy building equally dangerous nuclear power plants, 500 nuclear reactors worldwide, hundreds more planned 1970s to 2000 : Military powers have competitively stockpiled nuclear warheads, Industrial World has been busy building equally dangerous nuclear power plants, 500 nuclear reactors worldwide, hundreds more planned Nuclear Power and Nuclear Weapons inextricably linked Nuclear Power and Nuclear Weapons inextricably linked Are these a major threat to our well- being ? Are these a major threat to our well- being ?

70. Nuclear Power (contd) Radioactive elements released are the same as those making up fallout of atomic bombs Radioactive elements released are the same as those making up fallout of atomic bombs Thousands of tons of these toxic materials discharged into environment by nuclear explosions and reactor spills Thousands of tons of these toxic materials discharged into environment by nuclear explosions and reactor spills Accumulation in the air we breathe, water we drink and food we eat Accumulation in the air we breathe, water we drink and food we eat Risk of developing cancer and genetic diseases continues to increase Risk of developing cancer and genetic diseases continues to increase Let us discount nuclear risk, what is the situation of the global ecosystem? Let us discount nuclear risk, what is the situation of the global ecosystem?

71. Major Environmental Problems in future Global climate change Stratospheric ozone depletion Urban air pollution Acid deposition Outdoor pollutants Indoor pollutants Noise Overgrazing Farmland loss and degradation Wetlands loss and degradation Over fishing Coastal pollution Soil erosion Soil salinization Water shortages Groundwater depletion Loss of biodiversity Sediment Nutrient overload Toxic chemicals Infectious agents Oxygen depletion Pesticides Oil spills Excess heat Water Scarcity Childhood diseases Cancer Asthma Immune system deficiencies Reproductive system problems Endocrine system disruptions *Habitat destruction *Habitat degradation *Extinction Solid waste Liquid waste Hazardous waste Biodiversity Depletion Air Pollution Food Supply Problem Water Scarcity & pollution Human Health Waste Production

72. Increasing Natural Resource Depletion

73. Increasing Deforestation

74. Unsustainable Development

75. Last 140 years

76. Projected change in mean surface temperature (by 2050) due to Global Warming

77. Climate Change Impacts – potentials & possibilities Agriculture Crop Yields Irrigation Demand Coastal Areas Erosion of Beaches Inundation of Coastal Wetlands Additional Costs to Protect Coastal Communities Species and Natural Areas Loss of Habitat and Species Health Air Quality - Respiratory Illness Weather-related Mortality Infectious and Tropical Diseases Climate Changes Manifest in 3. Sea Level Rise 1. Temperature Increase 2. Precipitation Patterns and ExtremesForests Forest Composition Geographic Range of Forests, Health and Productivity Water Resources Water Supply Water Quality Competition for Water Source: Anne Grambsch, 1998

78. In 2100 half of the world population  will be under water stress Western and northern Europe:  Increase in heavy precipitations and floods;  less frequent cold winters Southern Europe:  Less precipitations;  increased desertification;  forest fires;  warm summers more frequent; Subtropical zones:  Less precipitations;  increased desertification Climate change impacts Third IPCC assessment report

79. Tropical zones:  Increased health risks High latitudes:  permafrost decrease Coastal zones:  coastal erosion;  storm surges;  salt water intrusions Cost of global warming in 2050:  300 billion Euros/Dollars per year (Munich Re) Climate change impact Third IPCC assessment report

80. Biodiversity Biodiversity has no single standard definition. The most straightforward definition is "variation of life at all levels of biological organisation“ [Kevin]. [Kevin] Another definition holds that biodiversity is a measure of the relative diversity among organisms present in different ecosystems. "Diversity" in this definition includes diversity within a species and among species, and comparative diversity among ecosystems. Kevin J. Gaston & John I. Spicer. 2004. "Biodiversity: an introduction", Blackwell Publishing. 2nd Ed.,, 2004

81. Levels of Diversity Traditionally, three levels at which biodiversity has been identified: Traditionally, three levels at which biodiversity has been identified: genetic diversity - diversity of genes within a species. Ggenetic variability among populations and individuals of same species species diversity - diversity among species ecosystem diversity - diversity at a higher level of organization, the ecosystem (richness in the different processes to which the genes ultimately contribute) This definition, which conforms to the traditional five organization layers in biology, provides additional justification for multilevel approaches. This definition, which conforms to the traditional five organization layers in biology, provides additional justification for multilevel approaches.

82. Monocultures Monoculture describes systems that have very low diversity. The term is applied in several fields. In agriculture, "monoculture" describes the practice of relying on a very small number of genetic variants, or cultivars of a food crop for commercial agriculture. Modern agriculture relies on standardization on a single cultivar so that the technology for tilling, planting, pest control, and harvesting, can be used over large geographical areas to obtain an economy of scale.

83. Many ecosystems have been frayed to the point where they are no longer resilient and able to withstand natural disturbances, setting the stage for ‘unnatural disasters’, - those made more frequent or more severe due to human actions. By destroying forests, damming rivers, filling in wetlands, and destabilising the climate, we are unravelling the complex strands of a complex ecological safety net. Janet Abramovitz, Worldwatch Institute (2001)

84. Living Planet Report (WWF, 2007) Environmental group WWF has warned that current global consumption levels could result in a large-scale ecosystem collapse by the middle of the century Environmental group WWF has warned that current global consumption levels could result in a large-scale ecosystem collapse by the middle of the century The group's biannual Living Planet Report said the natural world was being degraded "at a rate unprecedented in human history". The group's biannual Living Planet Report said the natural world was being degraded "at a rate unprecedented in human history". Terrestrial species had declined by 31% between 1970-2003, the findings showed. Terrestrial species had declined by 31% between 1970-2003, the findings showed.

85. It warned that if demand continued at the current rate, two planets would be needed to meet global demand by 2050. It warned that if demand continued at the current rate, two planets would be needed to meet global demand by 2050. The biodiversity loss was a result of resources being consumed faster than the planet could replace them, the authors said. The biodiversity loss was a result of resources being consumed faster than the planet could replace them, the authors said. They added that if the world's population shared the UK's lifestyle, three planets would be needed to support their needs. They added that if the world's population shared the UK's lifestyle, three planets would be needed to support their needs.

86. Living Planet Index - assesses the health of the planet's ecosystems tracked the population of 1,313 vertebrate species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals from around the world. Living Planet Index - assesses the health of the planet's ecosystems tracked the population of 1,313 vertebrate species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals from around the world. It found that these species had declined by about 30% since 1970, suggesting that natural ecosystems were being degraded at an unprecedented rate. It found that these species had declined by about 30% since 1970, suggesting that natural ecosystems were being degraded at an unprecedented rate.

87. Ecological Footprint - measures human demand on the natural world -the global footprint exceeded the earth's biocapacity by 25% in 2003, which meant that the Earth could no longer keep up with the demands being placed upon it. Ecological Footprint - measures human demand on the natural world -the global footprint exceeded the earth's biocapacity by 25% in 2003, which meant that the Earth could no longer keep up with the demands being placed upon it. The report outlined five scenarios based on the data from the two indicators, ranging from "business as usual" to "transition to a sustainable society". The report outlined five scenarios based on the data from the two indicators, ranging from "business as usual" to "transition to a sustainable society". Under the "business as usual" scenario, the authors projected that to meet the demand for resources in 2050 would be twice as much as what the Earth could provide. Under the "business as usual" scenario, the authors projected that to meet the demand for resources in 2050 would be twice as much as what the Earth could provide.

88. They warned: "At this level of ecological deficit, exhaustion of ecological assets and large-scale ecosystem collapse become increasingly likely." They warned: "At this level of ecological deficit, exhaustion of ecological assets and large-scale ecosystem collapse become increasingly likely." To deliver a shift towards a "sustainable society" scenario would require "significant action now" on issues such as energy generation, transport and housing. To deliver a shift towards a "sustainable society" scenario would require "significant action now" on issues such as energy generation, transport and housing. The latest Living Planet Report is the sixth in a series of publications which began in 1998. The latest Living Planet Report is the sixth in a series of publications which began in 1998.

89. The Paradox of our Age HH The Dalai Lama We have bigger houses, but smaller families More conveniences, but less time We have more degrees, but less sense; More knowledge but less judgements; More experts, but more problems; More medicines, but less healthiness.

90. We have been all the way to the moon and back, But have trouble crossing the street to meet the new neighbour We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but have less communication We have become long on quantity, but short on quality

91. These are times of fast foods, but slow digestion; Tall men, but short character; Steep profits, but shallow relationships. It is a time When there is much in the window, But nothing in the room.