Just finished Dan Brown’s new book and I cannot say that I loved it. Of course I wasn’t crazy about the Da Vinci Code either. His writing is mediocre at best, but I do enjoy learning some philosophy, science and history along the way.
There are a number of interesting ideas discussed in “The Lost Symbol,” but the one I enjoy exploring the most is at the very end of the book. Katherine, a scientist involved in research into the Noetic sciences, appears to be a composite of many of the leading figures in this real-life area of study. Here’s their own description of what the Noetic Sciences are:
“The word “noetic” comes from the Greek word nous, for which there is no exact equivalent in English. It refers to “inner knowing” or a kind of intuitive consciousness—direct and immediate access to knowledge beyond what is available to our normal senses and power of reason. As defined by psychologist-philosopher William James in 1902, noetic refers to “states of insight into depths of truth unplumbed by the discursive intellect. They are illuminations, revelations, full of significance and importance, all inarticulate though they remain; and as a rule they carry with them a curious sense of authority…”
Noetic sciences use scientific methods to explore the “inner cosmos” of the mind (consciousness, soul, spirit) and how it relates to the “outer cosmos” of the physical world. In other words, they study how people come to know things or affect things through experiences or capacities (intuitions, synchronicities, psi, “after-death” communication, energy healing, etc.) that have no apparent rational explanation, and what this says about the nature of human consciousness.”
Near the very end of the book, Katherine starts talking about how powerful thoughts can be in impacting our world, the astounding power of focused conviction and intention. Do our minds have the power to change physical matter, and literally manifest all that we desire?
Katherine says yes, but well-directed thought is a learned skill, one which some of us have far greater natural ability with than others. To manifest an intention requires laser-like focus, full sensory visualization, and a profound belief in what you are attempting to create.
This, in the end, is what this book is about. We humans need to finally acknowledge our own power of intention, the power of our minds to manifest a better world, and then use that focused energy to change our present reality. I hope there is still time.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
It is my opinion (and experience) that we have the power yet are too lazy or fearful to use it well at this time.
But, Everything changes.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Brad
Interesting, thought-provoking post. I believe, as long as we have air in our lungs, there is time. Nice little etymology lesson, too.
As Thanksgiving approaches, I am grateful for colleagues such as you!
Thanks for reading Brad and MJ!