In today's world, it's getting all too common for people to blur the lines between science, spirituality, and philosophy. And what bothers me, as a spiritual person, the most is when people begin resorting to pseudoscience to bolster their religious beliefs.
Take, for instance, the idea that temples function as antennas, sending signals through their echoing chambers, or the claim that satellites mysteriously falter when passing over certain temples like Thirunallar or Chithambaram being the center of the earth and what not. This nonsense has to end. Let me break down the fundamental differences between science and philosophy, so the mixing of two ends right today.
While it may appear that the accusation is directed towards spirituality or philosophy in general, the case is, in fact, aimed at individuals who blindly believe in, support, and adhere to specific religious ideologies and forward messages without doing some due diligence. On a broader scale, these individuals should all receive education and guidance aimed at fostering clarity, ultimately leading them towards the pursuit of spiritual philosophy as an ideal outcome.
BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)
In this essay, I aim to highlight the key differences between science and philosophy.
I want to emphasize that science, as a collective, evidence-based pursuit aimed at practical applications for societal benefit, relies on peer review and collaboration.
On the other hand, philosophy represents an individualistic quest for personal wisdom, resisting external intervention.
In my view, it's crucial to distinguish these two disciplines and avoid the misuse of scientific terms in spiritual contexts.
Science and Philosophy or Spirituality: Key Differences
In the realm of science, the most recent development holds the highest credibility.
Conversely, in philosophy, the oldest ideas carry the greatest weight.
Because, over time, people accumulate not only knowledge but also tend to acquire creatively heinous traits. Over the past 200 years of industrial revolution and technological advancement, although it appears like we are progressing, the minds of general population are getting worse undeniably. We look well civilized in the outlooks but even our garbage yards and landfills speak volumes about how barbaric we are getting everyday against the very planet that is home to us. Good and bad gets mixed, it's human nature, that's the reality.
I'm not suggesting we completely dismiss contemporary wisdom, but it's crucial to remember that we haven't yet reached the ideal society we aspire to be. Don't even believe my words or trust who I am.
Moving on,
In science, progress is marked by inventions and discoveries, as it represents an outward quest for expanding knowledge.
In philosophy, progress involves the unveiling and exploration of ideas, reflecting an inward journey toward enduring wisdom.
Science is a collective endeavor, focused on generating knowledge for practical applications that benefit society as a whole. This collaborative nature underscores the importance of peer review and peer approvals in driving advancements in science.
On the flip side, philosophy remains an individualistic journey, offering wisdom that is distinctly personal to each and every soul. There exists no room for one person to intervene in another's path, claim the position of guru, unless the relationship involves no ulterior motives such as financial gain or exploitation, and is entirely selfless. This is why we ought to reconsider our inclination to idolize contemporary gurus and yoga masters on our spiritual journey.
In the scientific domain, the latest discovery supersedes prior ones, setting new standards.
In contrast, in philosophy, the earliest revelations are to be steadfastly adhered to; any deviation or distortion is to be recognized as falsehood or heresy.
For instance, consider the Tamil Siddhanta philosophy, rooted in the wisdom of figures like Thirumoolar, Karaikal Ammaiyar, and Thiruvalluvar and upon which the Saivism is built upon. Over the course of more than two millennia, their philosophical tenets have been faithfully followed by genuine spiritual leaders, right up to luminaries such as Vallalar and Pamban Swamigal in the 19th and 20th centuries. Study their works with a sensible mind, and you will begin to understand how they unwaveringly adhered to the core values and virtues that were revealed more than two millennia (or even older) ago. The revelation remains intact, yet the teachings evolved from time to time, relevant to the political situation that prevailed during their times.
In the 21st century, isn't it our solemn responsibility to faithfully follow the revelations and teachings handed down to us and to uphold the values and virtues they have transmitted? These wise sages have meticulously documented their wisdom to prevent any discrepancies or manipulation. Yet, what gratitude have we shown for the countless generations that preserved these texts for centuries, only for us to neglect and seek answers elsewhere? We don't even educate our children to read and write Tamil properly. How disgraceful could we get?
Charlatans posing as spiritual leaders thrive on our collective ignorance and vulnerability. Modern education has inadvertently created a fertile ground of educated individuals susceptible to deceit, manipulation, and indoctrination. Let us stop being so gullible. Unless we unite, delve into the study and comprehension of philosophy independently, these fraudsters are poised to gain even greater success, impeding countless souls from attaining liberation and fulfilling life's purpose on a broader scale.
We must initiate a concerted effort to engage with, discuss, and disseminate their invaluable works. The urgency of this task cannot be overstated, particularly as our world grapples with pressing issues like climate challenges and the encroaching mental health crisis that casts a shadow over the human psyche.
Takeaways and Things to remember:
Temples are neither miraculous nor scientifically designed, but they do stand as remarkable architectural achievements, showcasing our artistic prowess.
Mantras and spiritual songs, while significant in their cultural and spiritual contexts, do not possess scientifically measurable effects.
Be wary of charlatans who cloak themselves in scientific language to peddle their wares. Genuine spiritual guidance is not about scientific jargon.
Spirituality doesn't always require empirical scientific validation; it operates in realms beyond empirical evidence.
Avoid disseminating false scientific claims that could diminish the significance of religious beliefs and subject one to ridicule.
Don’t just believe, try to understand, if you have it in you.
The duty of the enlightened is to make people understand, and not insist others blindly believe in what was believed. Time to wake up!
One don't have to get too cringe to mix science and spirituality, let us not spread pseudo science, let us approach both science and philosophy with open minds and hearts.
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