A Novel Opportunity for Science and Scientists
Pradeep B. Deshpande, Gautam Kumar Gupta, Mahendra Kumar Sunkara, James P. Kowall
August 27, 2023 DOI: 10.31224/3196 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that discoveries divide into Type I, arising from connecting existing knowledge through reason, and Type II, which cannot emerge from prior knowledge and are called "Shruti" (revealed). Contends Type I discoveries occur in deep contemplation and Type II in deeper meditative or devotional states that transcend reason, and reports that discoveries came to the first author during contemplation and meditation, which the authors propose could transform education, companies, and societies. |
Abstract
Discoveries come about in one of two ways.In one, an enquirer discovers something which amounts to connecting the dots in the ocean of existing knowledge, domain of reason.We call them Type I discoveries.In the other, the discovery made cannot come about on the basis of the then existing knowledge.We have coined the name, Type II discoveries for such discoveries.Since ancient times, Type II discoveries have been aptly called, "Shruti", meaning, revealed in Sanskrit.Type I discoveries can occur when the focus of attention is enhanced, as in deep contemplation, while Type II discoveries can occur when the focus of attention is further enhanced, as in a deeply meditative state, or in devotional prayer, transcending reason.The article cites references to several ancient and not so ancient Type I and Type II discoveries, and also presents several discoveries that have come to the first author during contemplation/meditation, explaining how they can contribute to transforming education, companies and societies.The ideas presented in the article offer a novel opportunity to scientists to become super inventors, but they also present a challenge to science as science does not permit transgressions beyond reason.