Heroic Consciousness

The article describes 'heroic consciousness' — how heroes perceive and think about the world — and contrasts it with pre-heroic consciousness, which is marked by dualistic, maladaptive thinking and a naive sense of empowerment. Heroic consciousness is characterized by nondualism, unity, transrationality, and tempered empowerment. The author proposes that this transformation can occur through three routes: the hero's journey, specific spiritual practices, or hero training programs. The implications for individual and global well-being are discussed.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This article describes heroic consciousness – how heroes perceive, experience, and think about the world. I describe the transformation of consciousness from its pre-heroic state to its heroic state. Pre-heroic consciousness is characterized by nescient and maladaptive thinking, dualism, separation, mono-rationality, and a naïve sense of empowerment. Heroic consciousness is exemplified by nondualism, unity, transrationality, and the wisdom of tempered empowerment. Heroic consciousness is achieved via three routes: (1) traversing the hero’s journey, (2) effective use of specific spiritual practices, and/or (3) participation in hero training programs. I discuss the implications of heroic consciousness for individual and global well-being.