Conditions for the transformation of consciousness during the transition from modernity to future culture (Eurasian culture in the context of the formation of planetary civilization)

Abstract

The article is dedicated to the analysis of the conditions for the transformation of consciousness in the era of the transition from the major culture of modernity to a new emerging culture – the future culture. The starting point for the author's reflections is the Central Asian Expedition of N.K. Roerich (1924–1928), which is considered not only as a scientific and artistic enterprise but primarily as an attempt to create conditions for the transformation of the world. The Roerichs, alongside Scriabin, Teilhard de Chardin, and Vernadsky, embodied the providential task of bringing about a new world. Four directions in addressing this vital, providential task as conceived by the Roerichs are analyzed: esoteric, artistic, psychotechnical, and social. The author shows that Roerich's worldview, based on the "Living Ethics" and an evolutionary-energetic understanding of the cosmos, is characteristic of esoteric perception with its belief in the "true" world. Drawing a parallel between the early 20th century and the present, the author notes a common expectation of a new world. However, a fundamental difference is identified: whereas the Baconian approach focused on mastering nature (analogous to the conquest of colonies) was dominant before, today the preservation of life on Earth in the face of civilizational threats (ecological crisis, risk of cosmic catastrophes, the creation of artificial superintelligence) comes to the forefront. Analyzing the positions of E. Yudkowsky and Yuka Huaiya, the author notes a paradox: modernity, oriented toward competition, growth, and success, blocks any attempts to limit dangerous technologies. The way out is seen in two processes – the transformation of consciousness (reconceptualizing basic notions: nature, cosmos, personality) and the formation of a new sociality through mass creativity. As a historical hint, the strategy of Augustine is referenced, who rationally rethought the Christian God to facilitate the transition from antiquity to the Middle Ages. Just as, for example, the transition to modern times led to the creation of concepts of the state, natural sciences, engineering, technology, and many other contemporary realities (invented and perfected), there is currently a pressing need for the creation and implementation of new concepts of sociality and life (including individual ones).