Consciousness has a deeper meaning and purpose. Some quantum physicists refer to consciousness in terms of the collapse of the wave function used to describe the probability distribution of all possible states of the observed system. At the moment the measurement takes place, the wave function collapses and one particular state appears as real. The great mathematician von Neumann stated that only the human consciousness can collapse this wave function. Similarly, the physicist Wigner mentioned that the consciousness has a different role in quantum mechanics than the measuring device and that impressions entering it influence the quantum descriptions of objects. So, reality is not determined until a conscious observer measures the phenomena. As consciousness is a complex concept it can best be explained by taking into account both science and spirituality rather than providing solely a materialistic point of view.
Science is objective and limited to rational consciousness while spirituality is subjective and mainly uses intuitive consciousness (heart). Science and spirituality use different tools when researching consciousness; yet they both search for the truth.
Science develops a model that describes measurements and if the model describes the data accurately, it is accepted to be a natural law. In case the new measurements deviate from the current knowledge the laws are changed in order to related to the new measurements. So, science is based on the rational consciousness and is interested in how the consciousness operates rather than why it exists.
Spirituality, on the other hand, is concerned with the aim of consciousness. The following issues in general have been addressed in all spiritual movements and religions:
- The purpose of consciousness is related to more than a materialistic view that sees it as residing within the brain.
- Everything that exists originates from the same consciouness and serves a purpose.
- As the truth cannot be described by the logical mind only it should better be felt by subjective experience.
- The goal of life is to overcome the limitations of ego, to subjectively recognize one’s own consciousness and to attain the wisdom.
- Unconditional love, compassion, faith, humility, patience, tolerance, simplicity, spontaneity, modesty, courage, sincerity and forgiveness are at the core of spiritual life.
Both science and spirituality, objective and subjective experience are necessary to achieve balance between rational and intuitive consciousness. Great philosophers from all religions and cultures remind us that both rational and intuitive consciousness are required to deal with the purpose of life.
