Human Consciousness and Contemporary Science: A Critical Review of Nine Fields in the Light of Vethathiri Maharishi's Philosophy

Abstract

Human consciousness remains a central interdisciplinary question involving neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, biology, physics and philosophy. Although contemporary research has advanced the understanding of neural correlates, cognitive processes, physiological regulation and theories of subjective experience, no single scientific framework has conclusively explained the full nature of consciousness. This critical narrative review examines nine contemporary scientific fields in the light of Vethathiri Maharishi's philosophy, which considers the human being through the interconnected dimensions of the physical body, life force, mind and consciousness. Simplified Kundalini Yoga (SKY), as taught by Vethathiri Maharishi, provides the practical context for understanding self-awareness, mental refinement and human development. The review explores conceptual connections with neuroscience, cognitive science, psychophysiology, psychology, complexity science, epigenetics, quantum physics, bioelectromagnetism and contemporary consciousness theories. It distinguishes empirical findings from theoretical interpretations and philosophical propositions. The analysis identifies areas of conceptual correspondence while emphasising that similarity does not establish scientific equivalence or proof. The review proposes an interdisciplinary perspective for future research on human consciousness and highlights the need for direct, methodologically rigorous investigations of SKY practices.