Becoming part of the solution

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The blending of hard and soft sciences underscores the importance of acknowledging consciousness as a fundamental factor in comprehending the world. It also exposes the constraints that arise when science predominantly fixates on objective, measurable elements of reality. This essay delves into how recognising the central role of consciousness can serve as a bridge between these apparently distinct fields, ultimately nurturing a comprehensive perspective on human knowledge and existence.

Consciousness serves as the linchpin connecting various aspects of human experience. This recognition suggests that consciousness is not merely a by-product of physical processes but rather a fundamental force that shapes our reality. When we consider consciousness as the bedrock of existence, we can appreciate that everything else, from physics to biology, emerges as subsets of this foundational concept.

A notable division exists in the world of science between the objective and subjective realms. Hard sciences, such as physics and chemistry, tend to emphasise objectivity. They deal with quantifiable data and reproducible experiments. In contrast, soft sciences like psychology, sociology, and metaphysics often delve into subjective matters that are challenging to quantify. This divide has created a hierarchical view of science, with the hard sciences placed on a pedestal while the soft sciences are sometimes seen as less rigorous.

Even within the hard sciences, inherent uncertainties persist when seeking to establish objective definitions. This serves as a crucial insight, underscoring the notion that objectivity isn’t a fixed point but rather a spectrum. For instance, in the realm of quantum mechanics, the simultaneous measurement of a particle’s position and momentum illustrates the principle of inherent uncertainty. While certain facets of reality like mathematical concepts (e.g., pi or a right angle) and geometric shapes (circles, squares, and triangles) possess precise definitions, the behaviour of subatomic particles introduces uncertainty. This innate uncertainty that extends into the soft sciences blurs the boundary between objectivity and subjectivity, ultimately challenging the once-clear distinction between these two realms.

Ironically in light of the hurdles encountered by the soft sciences within this framework, there’s a prevailing effort for these disciplines to bolster their credibility by prioritising objectivity. This pursuit may entail forsaking some of the intricate facets and subtleties of subjective experiences to align with the scientific framework. Consequently, the distinctive insights and the potential for personal growth offered by the soft sciences often go unexplored, constrained by the demands of objectivity. This imbalance excludes critical aspects of human life and limits our understanding of the world.

We can say that the objective world is a subset of a more comprehensive, subjective reality. By acknowledging the primacy of consciousness, we can bridge the gap between hard and soft sciences, appreciating their shared goal of understanding the world and promoting human well-being. This unity recognises that both objective and subjective aspects of life are equally important and should not be undervalued.

A comprehensive understanding of the world must embrace both objective and subjective realms, acknowledging that the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of love and compassion are intertwined. This holistic perspective can help us create a more meaningful and interconnected view of science and human existence.

Written by Stephen Griffin and ChatGPT