Rupert Sheldrake
Rupert Sheldrake is a British biologist and scientific researcher best known for his theory of morphic fields. His ideas challenge traditional scientific thinking and have sparked both acclaim and controversy.
🧬 What is the theory of morphic fields?
Morphic fields are a central component of Sheldrake's work and offer an alternative perspective on growth, development, and consciousness in nature.
According to Sheldrake, morphic fields are invisible energetic fields that influence the form and behavior of matter and living beings. They are a kind of "invisible memory" of nature, storing and reproducing the forms and patterns of nature.
They affect everything from cells to plants to animals and humans.
These fields are supposedly responsible for the repetition of organic structures and behaviors—for example, the same type of plant repeatedly grows in the same shape or animals develop certain instincts in a similar way.
Sheldrake's theory states that morphic fields exist not only in living organisms but also in the environment – they form a kind of connection between all things and influence their development and interaction with each other.
🧠 Human Consciousness and Experience
Another important aspect of Sheldrake's work is the question of consciousness. He proposes that consciousness is not only located in the brain, but is influenced by morphic fields, which also act between different states of consciousness and experiences in the human psyche.
He argues that through our connection to morphic fields, we are connected to a collective memory. These fields store experiences and knowledge that are passed down through generations.
Sheldrake questions whether human consciousness truly arises solely from the brain and suggests that it is connected to the universe.
🌍 Critical Reactions and Significance
Sheldrake is a highly controversial scientist. Many of his ideas conflict with traditional, materialistic science, which assumes that everything that exists results solely from physical processes. Nevertheless, he has a loyal following that sees his ideas as an exciting extension of science.
Some of his key books and works:
"A New Science of Life" (1981) – in this book, he presents his theory of morphic fields.
"The Presence of the Past" (1988) – here, he expands on his theory and describes how morphic fields affect the evolution of nature.
"Science Set Free" (2012) – in this book, Sheldrake calls for a reform of modern science, suggesting that it should be more open to spiritual and metaphysical concepts.
Sheldrake is also known for investigating concepts such as telepathy, remote viewing, and other phenomena considered by many to be "paranormal," but understood by him as natural phenomena related to morphic fields.
🌱 Influence on Spirituality and Esotericism
Through the connection between science and mysticism in Sheldrake's work, he has also influenced spiritual and esoteric movements. The concept of morphic fields is reminiscent of many esoteric concepts of energetic fields and collective consciousness structures. Especially in areas such as spiritual healing and consciousness-altering practices, Sheldrake's theory is used as a way to understand the interplay of body, mind, and the universe.
🧩 A few basic principles of Sheldrake's theory:
Formation by fields: All forms—from cells to thoughts—are influenced by morphic fields.
Memory of nature: Morphic fields are a kind of collective memory that permeates and influences life and nature.
Repetition and resonance: The more often something happens, the stronger the morphic field becomes. This is how patterns and habits develop.
