The current dilemma in physics stems from the fact that the laws of Newtonian Physics are essentially rendered invalid when applied at the quantum level as the behavior of sub-atomic particles does not seem to operate with any adherence to the principles that govern our experienced reality. Particles at the quantum level seem to be able to communicate instantaneously through some unknown means, flash in and out of existence on a regular basis, and cross barriers that should be impenetrable. In short, the quantum world is a world of possibilities that defies our current understanding of phenomena and one in which probabilities are more influential in determining states of existence than any governing laws of thermodynamics.
So the question arises as to how to reconcile the chaotic nature of the quantum world and the essentially stable reality that we all experience. This paper proposes that the missing link is none other than the Observer - specifically, Consciousness.
Consciousness, and by that I mean the Collective Consciousness, selects a particular state or outcome from among an infinite number of possibilities and, thereby, fixes it in order to allow for a continuity and stability in the reality that we experience, allowing for our active involvement in a stable, continuous world. Taking the Hindu position that the Cosmos is none other than the Universal Self playing hide-and-go-seek with itself, then in order for the game to work, the elements (you and me) need to have a stable environment in which to play.
The Buddha said that "With our thoughts we create the world." My proposal is that he meant that literally. Perhaps that is the secret that mystical traditions the world over have understood for thousands of years: that Consciousness literally creates reality. It is a simple idea and yet so profound and complex that our minds are not able to really understand it or use it to its full capacity. That is probably a good thing because without a heightened level of consciousness most people would simply use such power for their own means. According to Carlos Castaneda, Don Juan Matus had what he referred to as the power of
intent and that through
intent he could manifest objects. He didn't do anything with that ability, however, because he had transcended personal desires.
The Hopi Indians are known for their rain dance, which contrary to popular belief, is not anything near praying to a god for rain. Instead, because in the Hopi world view the Mind and the Universe are inseparable, they chant and dance for hours to change their own consciousness and, as result, rain clouds form. The rain clouds are neither inside nor outside of their Mind, because that distinction is erroneous.
