Hello, everyone. I am Dr. G, a clinical psychologist, and today we’re continuing our exploration of the intriguing concept of the Observer-Observed Conflict in our Quantum Life series. In previous episodes, we discussed the history, teachings, and research of visionaries like Jiddu Krishnamurti and David Bohm, who urged us to think for ourselves rather than following gurus. Please make sure to watch the full video on ‘How To Achieve Quantum Being – An Introduction’ on YouTube https://youtu.be/xbe-xqN6Rso
Today, we’re diving deeper into the practical applications of this concept and how it can profoundly impact our lives.
Understanding the Observer-Observed Conflict:
Let’s begin by revisiting the concept of the Observer-Observed Conflict, a term rooted in the realm of quantum physics. At its core, this concept challenges the notion that we are inherently divided within ourselves. Often, we perceive a distinction between the observer—the part of us that watches our thoughts and experiences—and the observed, which is our thoughts, experiences, and emotions. The question is, is this distinction real, or is it merely an illusion we’ve conjured up? What sets this concept apart is that it relies on personal experience as evidence. Unlike many other theories, it doesn’t require us to adopt second-hand information or build our beliefs around someone else’s teachings. The proponents of this approach, like Krishnamurti and Bohm, encourage us to tap into our inner wisdom and learn for ourselves. They promote learning as the process of discovering the unknown within us rather than regurgitating known facts from external sources.
Shifting Away from Guru Mentality:
Krishnamurti and Bohm emphasized that we should break free from the guru mentality and start thinking independently. They didn’t consider themselves teachers but rather guides who pointed the way toward self-discovery. The central theme in their teachings is the importance of not blindly following others, not even the greatest spiritual figures like Krishna or Buddha. Instead, they emphasized absorbing truths from within and learning independently.
The Impact of the Illusion:
The illusion of the Observer-Observed Conflict holds significant consequences for our decision-making, emotional regulation, and logical reasoning. When we perceive this division within ourselves, it can lead to feelings of disconnection and internal conflict. This internal disharmony can manifest in various ways, affecting our mental health, from depression to anxiety disorders. It can also disrupt our ability to be fully present in the moment. To delve deeper into this concept, let’s consider a couple of analogies. Imagine how our pets, particularly dogs, live in the moment. They’re super attentive to immediate threats but quickly return to a state of calm when the danger has passed. This is a perfect example of reorienting oneself to the present, something we should learn from our furry friends.
Another analogy relates to paradoxical or illogical statements. We have the ability to shift between distinct perspectives, even on the same topic. This allows us to find meaning in contradictory statements and explore different angles. It’s like momentarily separating our observer from the observed to understand different viewpoints.
The Trap of Separation:
This illusion of separation can lead to feelings of loneliness, tribalism, and adversarial thinking. We often emphasize the differences between us and others and forge connections based on shared beliefs, leading to a sense of unity among like-minded individuals. At the same time, it drives a wedge between us and those we see as different. This adversarial mindset only fuels conflict and division, which can escalate into wars and atrocities.
To break this cycle, we need to acknowledge our role in perpetuating these conflicts. Instead of pointing fingers at others, we must take responsibility for our actions, thoughts, and beliefs. We have the power to reconnect, foster empathy, and create a more harmonious world. The Observer-Observed Conflict is not just a theoretical concept but a practical approach that can transform the way we perceive ourselves and the world around us. By embracing mindfulness and reorienting ourselves to the present, we can begin to dissolve the illusion of separation and foster empathy, connection, and a sense of shared responsibility.
In the next blog, we will delve into the deception of thought and how it impacts our daily lives. Don’t forget to subscribe to stay tuned for more insightful discussions.