Is it all about Conciousness?

    Over the past couple of years, in a number of posts I have touched on this and associated subjects. The following is intended in part as a consolidation and update of several of my earlier observations. 
The seemingly never-ending quest for the  origins of the Universe and our role within it has been and still is the enigma of the ages. However, the relatively recent emergence of Quantum Physics seems destined to solve many of its mysteries. However its non-intuitive nature and overall weirdness will in all probability introduce many new enigmas as it solves the old. One of its leading researchers once commented that  “If anyone tells you that they understand Quantum physics, doesn't understand Quantum Physics!”
Fundamentally, it contradicts the scientific dogma that we are purely mechanical entities, driven by genes and proteins. Now, it is becoming increasingly evident that we and the cosmos are all connected. The new science of particle physics has shown at the micro level that cosmic space variously referred to the Matrix, Cosmic Field, Ether and several others is not a vacuum as previously thought, but a seething mass of electro-magnetic waves and particles, popping into and out of existence and changing from one into the other. In other words, in addition to studying the macroscopic material world, there is increasing emphasis into that mysterious realm of sub-microscopic atomic layers. Known as the Unified Field and Super String Theory neither of which I pretend to understand, it is associated with research into the Big Bang theory.
One of the bizarre properties of Quantum physics can be seen in the famous double-slit experiment where it is shown that when photons are fired at a flat surface containing two slits towards another flat surface positioned a short distance in front of it, instead of the ensuing surface pattern being two strips of light there are several, referred to as an interference pattern. If now the flat surface is viewed through one of the slits, the resulting pattern now reverts to two simple strips as would have initially been expected. In other words, the particles seem to know that they are being watched! This fascinating experiment is covered in more detail on a number of YouTube videos. Here is an easy introduction:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfPeprQ7oGc
As another of the original researchers into quantum physics commented "-surely God doesn't play with dice!"
Another is the phenomenon of "entanglement". It has been shown that if two adjacent particles are now separated, regardless of the degree or distance of separation, any action on one particle will instantly occur on the other -not at light speed but instantaneously. This supports the assertion that, at least at the sub-atomic level, we are essentially one. So radical was this concept that it was sufficient to cause an alarmed Albert Einstein to comment that it was "spooky action from a distance". Although Quantum Physics is demonstrable and requires no declaration of faith, could its non-intuitive and "impossible" nature be a little Divine humor from God? 

It is now been suggested that this Matrix could be an expression of a universal consciousness or even intelligence. Indeed many refer to this as the Divine Matrix. For some time I have considered all this and wondered whether this could be the definitive answer to the eternal conundrum of where we came from and why.
Reviewing the foregoing, perhaps the most astounding hypothesis suggests that the cosmos with its ocean of electromagnetic particles is itself, our universal consciousness. Many report feeling something of this connection when looking up at a clear, starlit night sky. Along with the concept of connectedness, could it be that at the commencement of life, each human is essentially connected or "plugged in" to this consciousness where it remains for the duration of life at the conclusion of which the connection is severed.

Putting things into perspective. Cassini spacecraft view of Earth from the rings of Saturn

The Big Bang could have been the result of either of two alternative propositions. Possibly these too might themselves be connected:

1. It was initiated by a particle collision which resulted in a local collapse of the particle/wave formation into unstable particles producing a mass chain reaction. The colossal expansion would ultimately result in the Big Bang followed by the beginning of the generally accepted evolutionary process. This is merely my own hypothesis supported by little more than my own personal observations. 

2. The force referred to above as the Divine Matrix was the prime mover behind the Big Bang. This would have presumably have involved a fairly complex mathematics process leading to the perfection of the evolutionary equations. With all considerations in place, the celestial touch paper would be lit and things set in motion. 

Either alternative would follow the process of natural selection over the billions of years leading eventually to the point on the mammalian branch where the split with chimpanzees occurred. The new branch would follow its evolutionary path towards what would eventually become hominids. 

This is where things become interesting. These primitive humans would inevitably be a little rough around the edges. There would inevitably be some conflict between them in food-gathering, definition of territorial boundaries, sex, etc. Eventually over time, increasing brain capability and in the interest of less abrasive and counterproductive conduct, the radical concept of mutual collaboration might be evolved. 

Initially introduced as a logical way of introducing pragmatism in the struggle for survival, it would be recognized as being essential to their continuing advance. As a consequence it would become second nature, one of mutual support, fairness plus perhaps, feelings of well being. This would be the initial application of The Golden Rule or "do as you would be done by". Further along the evolutionary trail this could develop into a genuine altruistic attitude where to be mutually compassionate and caring would form a normal part of the human psyche and with it the concept of conscience and an awareness of the difference between right and wrong. Was this "conscience" merely an evolution of the mind or did it require a measure of spiritual course adjustment from the force of the Divine Matrix or are both manifestations of universal consciousness?  

Over thousands of years of continuing evolution, the first paintings, sculpture and music would appear in primitive form. Could these art forms spontaneously evolve into the amazingly complex classical creations of recent time. Are the inspired works of Michelangelo, da Vinci, Shakespeare, Shelley, Byron etc. naturally selected outcomes of evolution or have they required a further cosmic hand on the tiller? Even more remarkable are the truly exquisite, sophisticated, densely structured, mathematic creations of Bach, Beethoven, Mozart etc. Are they too merely a result of natural selection alone. 
Perhaps the most remarkable and quite unique manifestation is that of a sense of humour? How did laughter evolve -surely not from kookaburras and hyenas!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0ZbykXlg6Q

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONFi8N2FQsc

If the God of some traditional religion was solely responsible for all the diverse lifeforms, why is the work so flawed? Why are there thousands upon thousands of people suffering from countless diverse illnesses and bodily malfunctions? This can be seen in the full car parks outside every hospital and the waiting lists of those waiting for treatment. This is the best scenario. In many parts of the world, the availability of such a waiting list however long, would be a massive improvement on the status quo. This alone would seem to point strongly in favour of natural selection alone. Evolution has been and continues to be an ongoing transitioning of each life form hopefully to improve and eventually correct its shortcomings. 
The Divine Matrix alternative broadly follows the concept of Deism. In summary, Deists find that personal reasoning, the order and complexity of nature coupled with individual experiences of the amazing world in which we live, provides sufficient reason for belief. The emphasis is on free thinking and not so-called divine revelations and ancient holy texts.

Does this Divine Matrix possess any sympathy or compassion or is it a gigantic, disinterested onlooker? The notion of a part-time divinity is difficult to comprehend but is more logical when compared with traditional religious examples. Within the Abrahamic faiths in particular, the use of fear and primitive superstition are nothing more than devices to coerce, restrict individual thinking and control the mind. This brief list is shocking. Rather than offering help, support and love, in addition to the the lengthy list of "Thou shalt nots", the portfolio consists of warnings of divine retribution, torture, pain, hell-fire and damnation. 
The concept of worship is flawed too. What gives humanity the overweening arrogance to feel that this omniscient being called God possesses a fragile ego which needs repeatedly massaging by puny accolades? Why aren't expressions of sincere thanks and appreciation sufficient. Sycophantic groveling on the knees is demeaning and employed for mainly self-serving reasons aimed at securing itself a spot in eternity. 

Anyway, what is the fascination with eternal life? What and where does it take place? What is the schedule for eternity? The first 6 months might be acceptable but what about after 6, 60, 600 or 60000 years? At least Muslim males will have something to entertain them! It would seem that their heaven would also serve double-duty as hell for their 72 partners! Will they still be rutting away after 10000 years and beyond. Wear and tear must surely become a factor! 
As for myself I will be happy to rest in eternal oblivion. I was not aware of the year 1920 and didn't miss it one bit. The same can be said of 3 am last night. it fact I was glad to have been unaware of its passing!  

An unlikely alternative would be re-incarnation. However should it exist it would seem to involve a total erasure of the memory hard-drive and a start from scratch, devoid of any previously acquired wisdom. Moreover, prospects are looking increasingly uncertain for the world. There is increasing indication that there could be a tipping point in the not-too-distant future. Indeed from a meteorological point of view, we already seem to be closing in on it. 

I will finish as I began. The one possible source of enlightenment could come with a (currently unlikely) comprehensive understanding of Quantum Physics. Should this happen, all that remains is to convey its meaning to the world at large, an equally challenging task.

At the end of the day, does any of this really matter? Other other than human curiosity, why do we really need any of this knowledge, theological or otherwise? It makes no practical difference at all in our daily existence. As I see it, our lifetime's goal is to truly appreciate the privilege of being alive on this wonderful vibrant blue planet, to do the best we can in all our endeavours, to enthusiastically apply the Golden Rule in all dealings with each other, show respect to all living things and aim to leave this world in better state than it was before our arrival. 

Amen.

Bon Echo Provincial Park, Ontario.