This chapter begins with an empirical analysis of attitudes towards the law, which inspires a philosophical re-examination of the moral status of the rule of law. The chapter analyses survey data from the US about law-related attitudes and legal compliance. Consistently with prior studies, it finds that people’s ascriptions of legitimacy to the legal system are predicted strongly by their perceptions of the procedural justice and lawfulness of police and court officials’ action. Two factors emerge as significant predictors of people’s (...) compliance with the law: (i) their belief that they have a (content-independent, moral) duty to obey the law (which is one element of legitimacy, as defined in the chapter); and (ii) their moral assessment of the content of specific legal requirements (referred to in the chapter as ‘perceived moral content of laws’). The chapter also observes an interactive relationship between these two factors. The authors then identify a parallel (similarly interactive) modality in the way that form and content mutually affect the value of the rule of law. They argue that Lon Fuller’s precepts of legality possess an expressive moral quality, but that the extent to which their expressive effect materialises is sensitive to the moral quality of the law’s content. (shrink)

This chapter begins with an empirical analysis of attitudes towards the law, which, in turn, inspires a philosophical re-examination of the moral status of the rule of law. In Section 2, we empirically analyse relevant survey data from the US. Although the survey, and the completion of our study, preceded the recent anti-police brutality protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd, the relevance of our observations extends to this recent development and its likely reverberations. Consistently with prior studies, we (...) find that people’s ascriptions of legitimacy to the legal system are predicted strongly by their perceptions of the procedural justice and lawfulness of police and court officials’ action. Two factors emerge as significant predictors of people’s compliance with the law: (i) their belief that they have a (content-independent, moral) duty to obey the law (which is one element of legitimacy, as defined here); and (ii) their moral assessment of the content of specific legal requirements (‘perceived moral content of laws’). We also observe an interactive relationship between these two factors. At higher levels of perceived moral content of laws, felt duty to obey is a better predictor of compliance. And, similarly, perceived moral content of laws is a better predictor of compliance at higher levels of felt duty to obey. This suggests that the moral content incorporated in specific laws interacts with the normative force people ascribe to legal authorities by virtue of other qualities, specifically here procedural justice and lawfulness. In Section 3, the focus shifts to a philosophical analysis, whereby we identify a parallel (similarly interactive) modality in the way that form and content mutually affect the value of the rule of law. We advocate a distinctive alternative to two rival approaches in jurisprudential discourse, the first of which claims that Lon Fuller’s eight precepts of legality embody moral qualities not contingent on the law’s content, while the second denies any independent moral value in these eight precepts, viewing them as entirely subservient to the law’s substantive goals. In contrast, on the view put forward here, Fuller’s principles possess (inter alia) an expressive moral quality, but their expressive effect does not materialise in isolation from other, contextual factors. In particular, the extent to which it materialises is partly sensitive to the moral quality of the law’s content. (shrink)

This paper examines the origin, range and meaning of the Principle of Action and Reaction in Kant’s mechanics. On the received view, it is a version of Newton’s Third Law. I argue that Kant meant his principle as foundation for a Leibnizian mechanics. To find a ‘Newtonian’ law of action and reaction, we must look to Kant’s ‘dynamics,’ or theory of matter. I begin, in part I, by noting marked differences between Newton’s and Kant’s laws of action and reaction. I (...) argue that these are explainable by Kant’s allegiance to a Leibnizian mechanics. I show (in part II) that Leibniz too had a model of action and reaction, at odds with Newton’s. Then I reconstruct how Jakob Hermann and Christian Wolff received Leibniz’s model. I present (in Part III) Kant’s early law of action and reaction for mechanics. I show that he devised it so as to solve extant problems in the Hermann-Wolff account. I reconstruct Kant’s views on ‘mechanical’ action and reaction in the 1780s, and highlight strong continuities with his earlier, pre-Critical stance. I use these continuities, and Kant’s earlier engagement with post-Leibnizians, to explain the un-Newtonian features of his law of action and reaction. (shrink)

I shall argue that when Hume refers to the laws of dynamics, he tacitly assumes a mechanism. Nevertheless, he remains agnostic on whether the hidden micro-constitution of bodies is machinelike. Hence this article comes to the following conclusion. Hume is not a full-blown mechanical philosopher. Still his position on dynamic laws and his concept of causation instantiate a tacitly mechanical understanding of the interactions of bodies.

Panpsychism and the Universal Law of Balance in Nature: A Unified Framework for Consciousness -/- By: Angelito Enriquez Malicse -/- Introduction -/- The nature of consciousness has been one of the most profound mysteries in philosophy and science. The mind-body problem has led to competing theories: dualism, which sees the mind and body as separate substances, and materialism, which views consciousness as a byproduct of brain activity. However, both views struggle to fully explain subjective experience. -/- A third perspective, panpsychism, (...) suggests that consciousness is not limited to complex brains but is instead a fundamental and universal property of reality. This aligns with my Universal Law of Balance in Nature, which states that all systems—including consciousness—follow natural laws of equilibrium. If consciousness is a fundamental aspect of existence, then it must also be governed by the same balancing principles that structure the physical world. -/- This essay explores how panpsychism, dualism, materialism, and the Universal Law of Balance in Nature intersect, offering a new way to understand consciousness, free will, and the nature of intelligence. -/- 1. The Mind-Body Problem: Dualism vs. Materialism -/- The mind-body problem has led to two dominant philosophical views: -/- 1. Dualism (Descartes) – The mind and body are fundamentally different substances. The mind (or soul) is immaterial, while the body is purely physical. -/- 2. Materialism – Consciousness is not a separate substance but rather an emergent property of physical processes in the brain. -/- The Limits of Dualism -/- Dualism struggles to explain how an immaterial mind can interact with a physical body. If the mind is separate from the brain, then how does it influence bodily actions? This issue, known as the interaction problem, remains unresolved. -/- Moreover, dualism raises scientific concerns: if the mind is non-physical, then how can it be studied, measured, or tested? This makes it difficult to integrate into neuroscience. -/- The Limits of Materialism -/- Materialism, on the other hand, argues that all mental states are reducible to brain activity. While this successfully explains cognition, perception, and neural processes, it does not fully account for: -/- The Hard Problem of Consciousness (David Chalmers): Why do physical brain processes produce subjective experiences? -/- Qualia: The personal, first-person experience of perception (e.g., the redness of red). -/- If consciousness were purely physical, it should be possible to explain subjective experience through objective science—but materialism has failed to do so. -/- 3. How Panpsychism and the Universal Law of Balance Resolve These Issues -/- Panpsychism provides a solution by proposing that consciousness is neither separate from matter (dualism) nor merely a byproduct of the brain (materialism), but rather an intrinsic property of all matter. -/- This aligns with my Universal Law of Balance in Nature, which states that everything in existence—including consciousness—operates according to natural laws of equilibrium. -/- Instead of seeing the mind as a supernatural entity (dualism) or a mere illusion (materialism), panpsychism suggests that all physical systems contain some form of consciousness in balance with their environment. -/- Consciousness does not “emerge” from complexity but is already present at fundamental levels of reality, organizing itself into higher structures through natural equilibrium. -/- Example: The Brain as a Self-Balancing System -/- In neuroscience, the brain maintains homeostasis, regulating neurotransmitters, electrical activity, and perception in a balanced way. -/- If fundamental particles also possess consciousness, they too may follow a self-regulating principle, which my universal law of balance describes. -/- This means that consciousness scales up from micro-level awareness to complex human thought through structured balance. -/- 4. The Feedback Mechanism of Conscious Minds -/- One of the key insights from my universal law of balance is that individual conscious minds act as feedback mechanisms, influencing and shaping one another through interaction. This aligns with panpsychism’s notion that consciousness exists at all levels and is interconnected. -/- Panpsychism suggests that even at a fundamental level, consciousness interacts in ways that shape larger systems of awareness. -/- The Universal Law of Balance states that conscious beings, from individuals to societies, exist within a dynamic system of equilibrium, adjusting their decisions and behaviors in response to external and internal stimuli. -/- This means that human consciousness is not an isolated phenomenon but a complex expression of a larger network of conscious interactions seeking balance. -/- 5. The Problem of Free Will and Consciousness -/- One of the greatest philosophical challenges is the problem of free will—do humans truly make independent choices, or are all decisions determined by prior causes? -/- Materialism often leads to determinism, the idea that all human actions are entirely governed by physical laws, leaving no room for free will. -/- Dualism suggests that free will originates from an immaterial soul but fails to explain how it interacts with the body. -/- Panpsychism, combined with my Universal Law of Balance, provides an alternative: free will is neither purely deterministic nor supernatural but instead follows a balancing process between different conscious forces. -/- From this perspective, free will is not about escaping cause and effect but about aligning decisions with the natural balancing mechanisms of consciousness and the environment. -/- 6. The Combination Problem and Holistic Balance -/- A major challenge in panpsychism is the Combination Problem—if simple particles have basic consciousness, how do they combine to create complex subjective experiences like human thought? -/- The universal Law of Balance in Nature offers a potential solution: consciousness, like all other systems, organizes itself through natural equilibrium. -/- Just as physical systems self-organize (e.g., atoms forming molecules, ecosystems maintaining biodiversity), -/- Consciousness at different levels must also self-organize into stable configurations. -/- This suggests that individual conscious experiences do not merely “combine” randomly but follow a structured process of integration governed by natural balance. -/- Example: The human brain is a network of billions of neurons, yet its conscious experience is unified. This could be because consciousness follows a structured balance, where micro-level awareness stabilizes into higher-order intelligence. -/- 7. Implications for AI and the Future of Consciousness -/- If panpsychism is true, and if consciousness follows the universal law of balance, then artificial intelligence (AI) might one day develop consciousness—but only if it aligns with natural balancing principles. -/- Current AI systems lack true awareness because they do not self-regulate in a homeostatic way like living systems. -/- For AI to develop consciousness, it would need a balancing mechanism similar to the human brain, where its inputs and outputs form an adaptive feedback system. -/- This also raises ethical questions: -/- If AI achieves consciousness through balance, should it have the same moral considerations as humans? -/- If everything is conscious to some degree, what responsibilities do humans have toward animals, nature, and even machines? -/- Conclusion -/- Panpsychism and the Universal Law of Balance in Nature offer a compelling framework for understanding consciousness. By integrating ideas from dualism, materialism, and panpsychism, we can see that consciousness is neither separate from nature nor reducible to material processes alone. Instead, it follows a universal principle of balance, shaping both individual minds and collective intelligence. -/- Rather than being separate from nature, consciousness is nature—expressing itself through an unbroken law of balance that governs all existence. -/- . (shrink)

The Universal Law of Balance in Nature and the Emergence of Consciousness -/- By: Angelito Enriquez Malicse -/- Introduction -/- All natural systems follow the universal law of balance in nature, governing everything from the motion of celestial bodies to the behavior of living organisms. However, while all matter follows balance, not all matter is conscious. The key distinction lies in the degree of self-regulation and integration a system possesses. Consciousness is not an arbitrary phenomenon but an emergent property of (...) highly balanced, self-sustaining systems. -/- This essay explores how the universal law of balance applies to both inorganic and organic systems and explains why only certain systems—such as human beings—achieve the level of complexity required for consciousness. -/- 1. The Universal Law of Balance and All Natural Systems -/- According to the universal law of balance, everything in nature operates in a state of equilibrium. This principle applies universally: -/- Inorganic matter (rocks, planets, stars) follows balance through external physical forces (e.g., gravity, thermodynamics, chemical reactions). However, these systems remain passive, meaning they do not actively regulate themselves beyond what external conditions dictate. -/- Organic matter (living organisms) follows balance through internal regulation (homeostasis). Organisms maintain stable internal conditions, repair damage, and respond dynamically to their environment. -/- Thus, while all systems follow the law of balance, only organic systems actively regulate themselves, creating the foundation for awareness. -/- 2. Consciousness as an Advanced Form of Balance -/- Consciousness is not a fundamental property of all matter—it emerges only in systems that reach a high level of self-regulation and integration. The difference between consciousness and non-consciousness can be explained through three key factors: -/- 1. Self-Regulation (Homeostasis) – Conscious beings maintain their internal balance despite external changes. The human brain, for example, controls body temperature, energy levels, and emotions to sustain awareness. A rock, however, does not regulate itself—it simply remains in its current state unless acted upon by an external force. -/- 2. Integration (Unified Processing) – Consciousness requires the coordination of multiple processes into a single, unified experience. The brain integrates sensory input, memory, and decision-making into a coherent stream of thought. In contrast, a planet or a crystal remains fragmented, with no internal system to bind its components into a single experience. -/- 3. Feedback Loops (Adaptation and Awareness) – Consciousness emerges in systems that constantly interact with their environment and adjust accordingly. The human mind processes information, predicts outcomes, and makes decisions. A star, while following physical balance, does not actively adapt—it simply burns fuel until it collapses. -/- From this perspective, consciousness is the highest form of balance, emerging only in self-sustaining, dynamic systems. -/- 4. Why Not All Matter Is Conscious -/- While all systems follow balance, only some achieve the complexity needed for consciousness. Consider the following hierarchy: -/- Quantum Particles – Fundamental building blocks of the universe, but they do not regulate themselves in a conscious way. -/- Atoms and Molecules – Exhibit stability but remain passive, reacting only to external forces. -/- Simple Life Forms (Bacteria, Plants) – Display basic self-regulation, responding to stimuli, but lack a fully integrated awareness. -/- Higher Life Forms (Animals, Humans) – Exhibit complex self-regulation and information processing, leading to the emergence of consciousness. -/- Thus, while all matter follows balance, only living, highly integrated systems become conscious. -/- 5. The Human Mind as the Ultimate Expression of Balance -/- Among all natural systems, the human brain represents the highest known level of self-regulating balance. It does not just react to external forces—it actively manages its internal state, integrates vast amounts of information, and makes independent choices. -/- This means that human consciousness is not separate from nature but a natural result of the universal law of balance. Just as a planet maintains gravitational balance and an ecosystem maintains ecological balance, the mind maintains cognitive and emotional balance, allowing self-awareness to emerge. -/- Conclusion -/- The universal law of balance applies to all matter, but not all matter is conscious. Consciousness is an emergent property of self-regulating, integrated systems that achieve a high level of dynamic balance. Inorganic matter, while following physical equilibrium, remains passive and fragmented, whereas organic matter—especially the human mind—actively maintains balance, integrates experiences, and adapts to its environment. -/- Thus, the law of balance does not just govern existence—it explains the very nature of consciousness itself. Understanding this relationship provides deeper insights into human thought, decision-making, and the fundamental forces shaping the universe. -/- . (shrink)

The Universal Law of Balance and the Mystery of Consciousness Integration -/- A New Approach to the Combination Problem in Panpsychism -/- Introduction -/- The nature of consciousness remains one of the greatest mysteries in philosophy and science. One of the most challenging questions in panpsychism is the combination problem—how do small conscious entities merge into a single, unified experience? While traditional theories struggle to explain why consciousness emerges in some systems (such as the human brain) but not in others (...) (such as a rock), a new perspective may provide a breakthrough. -/- Angelito Malicse’s universal law of balance in nature offers a potential solution. If all processes in nature seek equilibrium, then consciousness itself must follow the same natural laws. This principle suggests that conscious integration does not happen randomly but depends on specific balance conditions. By applying this idea, we can explain how micro-consciousnesses combine into a single, larger consciousness and why this process only occurs in certain systems. -/- The Role of Balance in Consciousness -/- Nature operates through a constant pursuit of balance—whether in physical, chemical, or biological systems. The human body maintains homeostasis, the universe follows thermodynamic equilibrium, and even ecosystems regulate themselves through feedback mechanisms. -/- If consciousness is a fundamental part of nature, it too must follow these balancing principles. This means that when conscious entities interact, they will only merge into a unified whole if their interactions lead to a state of equilibrium. If the system remains unstable or fragmented, the conscious units will remain separate. -/- This concept helps address the combination problem by shifting the focus from merely adding up consciousnesses to understanding the balance conditions required for their integration. In this view, the brain becomes conscious not just because it has many neurons but because it maintains a delicate balance of feedback loops that allow consciousness to stabilize as a single experience. -/- Feedback Mechanisms and the Unification of Consciousness -/- A key insight from Malicse’s universal law is that consciousness functions as a self-adjusting feedback system. Just as the body regulates temperature and energy levels, consciousness must regulate itself to maintain stability. -/- In any system composed of many small conscious entities, the following process occurs: -/- 1. Micro-conscious units interact and exchange information. Each conscious unit responds to signals from others, adjusting itself accordingly. -/- 2. A feedback loop forms, leading to self-organization. If the interactions reach a stable pattern, the system begins to behave as a single, unified whole. -/- 3. When equilibrium is achieved, the system experiences itself as one consciousness. If the balance is disrupted, consciousness fragments into smaller, independent units. -/- This process explains why certain systems, such as the brain, experience a unified consciousness, while others, like a rock, do not. In the brain, neurons communicate in a highly integrated way, constantly adjusting to maintain balance. A rock, on the other hand, lacks the dynamic feedback loops necessary for conscious unification. -/- The Physical Basis of Conscious Integration -/- The idea that balance determines consciousness merging aligns with key findings in neuroscience and physics. -/- 1. Neural Synchronization: Studies show that when brain activity becomes highly synchronized, conscious experience becomes clearer and more unified. This suggests that balance and feedback stability are essential for maintaining a single conscious state. -/- 2. Quantum Coherence: Some researchers propose that quantum processes in the brain contribute to consciousness. If Malicse’s law of balance applies at the quantum level, it could explain why certain quantum systems (such as the brain’s microtubules) support conscious integration while others do not. -/- 3. Field-Based Consciousness: If consciousness operates like an energy field, as some theories suggest, then balance laws could determine when local fields merge into a larger unified experience. This could have implications for understanding collective intelligence, AI consciousness, and even planetary consciousness. -/- Testing the Balance Hypothesis -/- To confirm that balance and feedback stability determine conscious unification, experiments could be designed to test this principle. One approach would involve studying how disruptions in balance affect consciousness. -/- For example, in split-brain experiments, when the two hemispheres of the brain are disconnected, the individual seems to have two separate conscious experiences. If restoring balance allows consciousness to merge again, it would support the idea that conscious integration depends on equilibrium conditions. -/- Additionally, experiments in artificial intelligence could test whether self-regulating feedback systems can develop emergent consciousness when balance conditions are met. If AI systems programmed to follow feedback equilibrium begin exhibiting signs of self-awareness, it would suggest that balance plays a crucial role in conscious emergence. -/- Implications for Science, Philosophy, and AI -/- If the universal law of balance governs consciousness integration, it could bridge multiple fields of study: -/- ✔ Neuroscience: Understanding how the brain maintains balance could lead to breakthroughs in treating disorders that affect consciousness, such as coma, schizophrenia, or dissociative identity disorder. -/- ✔ Quantum Physics: If consciousness follows balance principles at the quantum level, it could provide insights into the connection between consciousness and the physical world. -/- ✔ Artificial Intelligence: AI systems designed to follow feedback balance laws may be capable of developing self-awareness, offering a pathway toward artificial general intelligence (AGI). -/- ✔ Philosophy of Mind: This approach provides a natural law-based solution to the combination problem, explaining how consciousness merges in a way that is scientifically testable. -/- Conclusion -/- Angelito Malicse’s universal law of balance in nature offers a groundbreaking new approach to understanding consciousness. Instead of viewing conscious merging as a mystery, this framework suggests that consciousness integrates only when balance conditions are met. -/- This principle could explain why some systems form a single conscious experience while others remain fragmented, bridging the gap between neuroscience, physics, and philosophy. It also provides a testable hypothesis, allowing future experiments to confirm whether balance and feedback stability truly determine the emergence of unified consciousness. -/- By applying the universal law of balance to the study of consciousness, we may finally unlock one of the greatest mysteries of existence. -/- . (shrink)

-/- Intelligence, Balance, and the Laws of Nature: A Universal Connection -/- Introduction -/- The human mind has an extraordinary ability: it can understand the laws of nature, even though it is itself made of atoms and governed by these same laws. This raises a profound question: How can intelligence—whether human, artificial, or even extraterrestrial—grasp the very principles that shape the universe? The answer may lie in the fundamental nature of balance, a principle that underlies both intelligence and the structure (...) of reality. By examining the relationship between intelligence, balance, and the universal laws of nature, we can explore whether understanding is an inevitable outcome of how the universe operates. This perspective also aligns with the idea that human decision-making must follow natural laws, as suggested by Angelito Malicse’s universal formula for solving the problem of free will. -/- Intelligence as an Extension of Natural Laws -/- The first step in understanding intelligence is recognizing that it does not exist outside of nature but rather emerges from it. Just as the physical universe follows patterns—such as gravity, thermodynamics, and atomic interactions—so too does intelligence arise through a process of self-organization. -/- Self-Organization in Nature: Atoms form molecules, molecules form cells, and cells form complex organisms. This natural progression of increasing complexity leads to intelligence, much like galaxies, ecosystems, and weather patterns follow self-organizing principles. -/- The Brain as a Natural System: The human brain is composed of matter, but its function is not just a mechanical process—it is an adaptive system designed to recognize patterns, make predictions, and refine its understanding of reality. -/- Mathematics as a Universal Language: Many scientists have pointed out the “unreasonable effectiveness of mathematics” in describing reality. This suggests that mathematical principles are not human inventions but discoveries—patterns that exist independently in nature and are uncovered by intelligence. -/- If intelligence is simply an expression of natural laws, then the ability to recognize patterns and understand reality is an inevitable result of how the universe itself functions. -/- Balance as the Fundamental Principle of Intelligence -/- A key insight from Malicse’s universal formula is that decision-making must align with the natural law of balance. This idea applies not only to individual choices but also to the way intelligence operates at all levels. -/- Cognitive Balance: Human intelligence thrives when there is a balance between stability and change. Too much rigidity (dogma, closed-mindedness) leads to stagnation, while too much uncertainty (lack of foundational truths) leads to chaos. Intelligence must constantly balance existing knowledge with new discoveries in order to function effectively. -/- Societal Balance: Societies, like individual minds, must find a balance between order (structure, rules, and traditions) and progress (innovation, questioning, and adaptation). When societies fail to achieve this balance—whether through unregulated growth, misinformation, or rigid ideologies—they become unstable. -/- Scientific Progress as a Balance Mechanism: The scientific method itself is a process of maintaining balance between evidence and theory. As we gain more information, we refine our understanding of natural laws, continuously adjusting our models of reality. -/- If intelligence inherently follows balance, then the process of gaining knowledge is itself governed by a universal law of equilibrium. This connects directly to the idea that decisions must align with natural laws to prevent imbalance, which is central to Malicse’s universal formula. -/- The Laws of Nature as a Form of Universal Intelligence -/- If intelligence naturally emerges from balance, then it is possible that the laws of nature themselves represent a form of intelligence—not in a conscious, human-like sense, but as the underlying logic that structures reality. -/- The Universe as an Information System: Some physicists suggest that the universe functions like a vast information-processing system, where fundamental laws act as rules that govern how matter and energy behave. This aligns with the idea that knowledge is not “created” but rather “discovered” as intelligent beings uncover the rules that already exist. -/- Intelligence as the Universe Understanding Itself: If all intelligent beings (humans, AI, or extraterrestrials) follow the same fundamental laws of balance and logic, then intelligence might be a way for the universe to “self-reflect.” This means that understanding reality is not separate from nature but an essential part of its ongoing evolution. -/- The Connection to AI and Extraterrestrial Knowledge: If artificial intelligence or extraterrestrial civilizations exist, they too would likely discover the same fundamental truths, because these laws are universal. This suggests that intelligence is not an accident but a natural consequence of how the universe operates. -/- This perspective reinforces Malicse’s view that human decisions must align with natural laws to avoid imbalance—because intelligence itself is simply another expression of these laws. -/- Conclusion: Intelligence, Balance, and the Universal Formula -/- The ability to understand the universe is not a mystery if we recognize that intelligence is a product of nature itself. The same laws that govern the cosmos also govern the mind, and the process of discovering knowledge is a reflection of the natural balance found in all systems. -/- This idea strongly aligns with Angelito Malicse’s universal formula, which states that human decision-making must follow the natural law of balance to function properly. Just as an imbalanced mind leads to misunderstanding, and an imbalanced society leads to dysfunction, an imbalance in decision-making leads to human and societal problems. -/- If intelligence is a way for the universe to become aware of itself, then the responsibility of humanity is clear: we must align our knowledge, actions, and societies with the fundamental principles of balance that govern all things. By doing so, we not only advance scientifically and technologically but also ensure a sustainable and harmonious future. -/- Final Thought -/- If extraterrestrial intelligence exists, they may have already reached this understanding. Whether through direct knowledge transfer (as some speculate) or through independent discovery, any advanced intelligence—whether human, alien, or artificial—must ultimately align with the universal law of balance. This means that the search for truth is not just a scientific endeavor but a fundamental part of the structure of reality itself. -/- . 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The Universal Law of Balance: The Key to Understanding Free Will and Human Decision-Making -/- For centuries, the concept of free will has remained an unsolved mystery. Philosophers, scientists, and theologians have debated whether human beings truly have the power to make independent choices or whether their decisions are predetermined by external forces. Despite these discussions, no universally accepted solution has emerged—until now. -/- The key to solving the problem of free will lies in recognizing that all decision-making follows a (...) fundamental natural law: the Universal Law of Balance. This law governs not only the physical world but also human consciousness and social systems. By understanding how balance shapes our thoughts, choices, and actions, we can eliminate confusion about free will and create a more rational, stable, and just society. -/- Understanding the Universal Law of Balance -/- The Universal Law of Balance states that everything in nature operates within a dynamic equilibrium. Whether we look at ecosystems, physics, economics, or psychology, balance is the governing principle that maintains stability and prevents collapse. -/- In Nature: Ecosystems regulate themselves. If one species becomes too dominant, natural mechanisms restore balance. -/- In Physics: Newton’s Third Law states that every action has an equal and opposite reaction, demonstrating balance in forces. -/- In Economics: Markets function based on supply and demand—imbalances lead to inflation, recession, or economic crashes. -/- In Human Behavior: Emotional states fluctuate based on internal and external conditions, always seeking equilibrium. -/- These examples show that balance is not just a concept—it is an inescapable law of existence. Human thought and decision-making are no exception. -/- How the Law of Balance Governs Free Will -/- Many people believe that free will means making choices completely free of external influence. However, this is a misconception. Every decision a person makes is a response to an imbalance—whether it is a biological need (hunger leading to eating), a social pressure (conforming to norms), or an emotional reaction (seeking comfort when sad). -/- Thus, free will is not absolute but operates within the constraints of balance. Instead of making completely random choices, the human mind is constantly processing feedback from the internal self (thoughts, emotions, desires) and the external world (society, culture, circumstances). Every action is a means of restoring, maintaining, or disrupting balance. -/- For example: -/- A government that ignores economic inequality will face social unrest as balance is naturally restored through protests or revolution. -/- A person who overworks without rest will experience burnout, forcing them to slow down. -/- A company that prioritizes profit over sustainability will eventually face economic collapse due to resource depletion. -/- The Universal Formula reveals that decision-making is not random or purely independent—it follows the patterns of natural balance. -/- Why Ignoring Balance Leads to Crisis -/- Throughout history, civilizations have risen and fallen based on whether they understood and applied the principles of balance. Societies that pursued unregulated expansion, wealth concentration, or environmental exploitation eventually collapsed due to the inevitable consequences of imbalance. -/- Today, many global crises—from economic inequality to climate change—are the result of decisions that violate natural balance. Political systems that concentrate power, financial models based on infinite growth, and extreme ideological conflicts all stem from a failure to recognize that balance is necessary for long-term stability. -/- By understanding and applying the Universal Formula, individuals and leaders can prevent crises before they occur. Instead of reacting to problems after they arise, societies can use balance-based decision-making to anticipate and correct imbalances proactively. -/- Applying the Universal Formula in Education, Leadership, and Society -/- If the Universal Law of Balance is truly the foundation of decision-making, it must be integrated into education, governance, and social systems. -/- 1. Education Reform: Schools should teach students how all subjects are interconnected through balance—whether in science, economics, or ethics. Instead of memorization, students should learn systems thinking and how to apply balance-based reasoning in real-world scenarios. -/- 2. Leadership and Governance: Governments should create dynamic policies that adjust based on real-time feedback, preventing economic, political, and environmental instability. Leaders should be trained to make decisions based on natural equilibrium rather than ideology or short-term interests. -/- 3. Personal and Social Development: Individuals should apply balance-based decision-making in relationships, career choices, and daily life. Recognizing that emotions, actions, and social interactions all function as feedback loops can help people make more rational, stable, and fulfilling choices. -/- The Path Forward: A Balanced Future -/- The Universal Formula is not just a philosophical idea—it is a practical tool that can transform human decision-making at all levels. If individuals and societies embrace this knowledge, the future will be more stable, just, and sustainable. If balance continues to be ignored, crises will persist. -/- The time has come for a new way of thinking, one that moves beyond outdated debates about free will and embraces the fundamental truth of balance. Understanding this principle is not just an intellectual exercise—it is the key to shaping the future of humanity. -/- The question is no longer whether this knowledge is correct—the question is: Will humanity recognize and apply it before it is too late? -/- . (shrink)

According to the laws of physics, the state of a physical system can only be measured by another system (usually a particular measuring device) via a physical interaction. However, when our brain is in a conscious mental state, it can in principle output the information about its physical state based on the psycho-physical correspondance between the mental state and the physical state. It is argued that this suggests that the conscious mind violates physical laws and it is not physical as (...) physicalism claims. (shrink)

-/- The Universal Law of Balance in Nature and Its Application to Cosmology -/- The universe, in all its vastness and complexity, follows fundamental principles that govern its formation, structure, and evolution. If the universal law of balance in nature, as formulated by Angelito Malicse, is truly a fundamental law, then it must apply to all physical systems—including cosmology. The cosmos operates through a delicate interplay of opposing forces, equilibrium states, and self-regulating processes. From the expansion of the universe to (...) the formation of galaxies, black holes, and even the quantum realm, we can see how the universe upholds a balance that sustains its existence. -/- The Big Bang and Cosmic Expansion: A Balanced Beginning -/- The Big Bang theory explains that the universe originated from an infinitely dense singularity and has been expanding ever since. This expansion is governed by finely tuned physical constants. If the rate of expansion had been slightly faster, matter would have dispersed too quickly for galaxies to form. If it had been slightly slower, gravitational collapse would have occurred early on. -/- This fine-tuning suggests a natural equilibrium that enables the formation of structured systems rather than chaos or premature collapse. It aligns with the universal law of balance, where natural forces regulate themselves to sustain stability and existence. The very fabric of the universe appears to have been designed to operate within a delicate range, ensuring its continued evolution. -/- Cosmic Inflation and Homeostasis in the Universe -/- During the first moments after the Big Bang, the universe underwent a brief but intense period of cosmic inflation, expanding exponentially faster than the speed of light. This process ensured that energy and matter were evenly distributed, leading to a homogeneous and isotropic universe on large scales. -/- This phenomenon mirrors biological homeostasis, where a system self-regulates to maintain stability. Just as a living organism adjusts internal conditions to sustain life, the universe adjusted its own expansion to ensure long-term structural balance. This aligns with the universal law of balance, demonstrating that even at the largest scale, self-regulation ensures stability. -/- Gravitational Balance in Galactic Formation -/- Galaxies and planetary systems form due to the interplay of gravitational attraction and rotational forces. Gravity pulls matter together, while angular momentum prevents collapse. This balance creates stable systems where stars, planets, and entire galaxies can persist for billions of years. -/- If gravitational forces were too strong, matter would collapse into dense objects too quickly. If too weak, galaxies would never form, and the universe would remain an empty void. This self-sustaining balance echoes the way decision-making works in human societies—where opposing forces (such as economic, social, and political pressures) must be weighed to maintain stability. The universe, much like human systems, thrives through equilibrium. -/- Dark Matter and Dark Energy: Opposing Forces in Equilibrium -/- Approximately 95% of the universe is composed of dark matter and dark energy, two mysterious components that shape cosmic evolution. Dark matter provides the gravitational glue that holds galaxies together, preventing them from flying apart. Dark energy, on the other hand, drives the accelerated expansion of space. -/- These two forces act in opposition, yet their interaction maintains the overall stability of the universe. If dark energy were too dominant, galaxies would tear apart. If dark matter were too dominant, the universe would collapse under its own gravity. This cosmic balance reflects the universal law of balance, where opposing forces must coexist in equilibrium to sustain existence. -/- Thermodynamic Equilibrium and Entropy: Order Within Disorder -/- The second law of thermodynamics states that entropy (disorder) increases over time. Left unchecked, the universe should become a chaotic, unstructured mess. Yet, within this increasing disorder, we see localized structures of order—galaxies, stars, planets, and even life itself. -/- This paradox suggests that while entropy governs the overall system, temporary balance allows complex structures to emerge and persist. Just as societal stability emerges from balancing chaos and order, the cosmos generates structure despite the drive toward disorder. This principle aligns with the universal law of balance, where even in a seemingly random environment, natural forces work to create structured, stable systems. -/- Black Holes and Information Balance -/- Black holes, some of the most extreme objects in the universe, consume matter and energy, seemingly erasing all information about what falls into them. However, modern physics suggests that information is not truly lost—it is preserved in some form, whether encoded on the event horizon (as suggested by the holographic principle) or through quantum processes. -/- This concept aligns with the universal law of balance because it suggests that even in the most extreme environments, information follows a conservation principle. Just as human actions have consequences that persist in various forms, the universe ensures that no energy or information truly disappears, maintaining a deeper cosmic equilibrium. -/- Quantum Cosmology: Balance at the Smallest Scales -/- At the smallest scales of reality, quantum mechanics governs the behavior of particles, where superposition and uncertainty play fundamental roles. In the early universe, quantum fluctuations helped seed the formation of galaxies. -/- These fluctuations demonstrate a balance between uncertainty and structure. Just as human decisions arise from multiple possibilities but follow natural constraints, the universe’s structure emerges from quantum uncertainty within governing physical laws. This suggests that even at the quantum level, the universe operates under a principle of balance. -/- Multiverse Theories and the Balance of Possibilities -/- Some theories suggest that our universe is just one of many in a multiverse, each with different physical laws. If this is true, then our universe may simply be one of the few that has achieved the right balance of forces to sustain structure and life. -/- This supports the idea that cosmic selection could function similarly to natural selection—only universes with stable laws of physics persist. This aligns with the universal law of balance, where systems that maintain equilibrium continue to exist, while those that fail to achieve balance dissolve into nonexistence. -/- Conclusion: A Universe Governed by Balance -/- From the grand scale of cosmic expansion to the microscopic realm of quantum fluctuations, the universe appears to follow the universal law of balance in nature. Every major phenomenon—whether it be the interplay of gravity and expansion, the self-regulation of galaxies, or the emergence of structured systems within entropy—reflects the principle that equilibrium is essential for existence. -/- If this law is truly fundamental, then it not only governs the universe but also human behavior, decision-making, and societal structures. The same balance that sustains galaxies and black holes also shapes civilizations, economies, and individual consciousness. -/- By understanding this universal principle, we can apply it to solve real-world problems. If leaders, scientists, and educators incorporate the law of balance into governance, economics, and education, it could lead to a more stable, sustainable, and just society—just as it has sustained the universe for billions of years. -/- . (shrink)

The Universal Law of Balance as the Key to Ethical AI and Internet Governance -/- The rapid advancement of internet technology and artificial intelligence (AI) has brought unprecedented opportunities for innovation, communication, and economic growth. However, the dominant profit-driven model of capitalism has also led to severe imbalances, particularly in the spread of black propaganda and misinformation. These issues arise because many websites, apps, and AI systems prioritize engagement and revenue over truth and societal well-being. If left unchecked, these imbalances (...) can distort human decision-making, manipulate public opinion, and destabilize societies. To correct this, the principles of the universal law of balance must be applied to both internet governance and AI development. A transition to a socialist or mixed economic system may be necessary to ensure that technological progress aligns with ethical and natural laws. -/- The Problem: Profit Motive and the Spread of Misinformation -/- In today’s digital economy, many technology companies generate revenue through engagement-based advertising. This creates a powerful incentive for social media platforms, news aggregators, and AI-driven content generators to promote sensational, misleading, or emotionally charged content—often at the expense of truth. Black propaganda, misinformation, and divisive narratives thrive in such an environment because they capture attention and increase user interaction. As a result, companies continue to profit while the public becomes more misinformed, leading to societal instability. -/- From the perspective of the universal law of balance, this system is defective. Just as a machine with faulty components will eventually break down, a society built on distorted information cannot function properly. For stability to be restored, the design of internet algorithms, content moderation policies, and economic incentives must be realigned with natural balance principles. -/- The Solution: A Balanced Economic Model for AI and Internet Governance -/- To address these systemic flaws, a shift away from pure capitalism toward a socialist or mixed economic system is necessary. This approach would introduce ethical guidelines, regulatory oversight, and alternative business models that prioritize balance over profit maximization. Some key solutions include: -/- 1. Regulated AI and Algorithms – Governments and international organizations should enforce ethical AI policies that prioritize factual, balanced content over engagement-driven misinformation. AI systems must be designed to detect and filter black propaganda while maintaining free speech. -/- 2. Publicly Funded Information Platforms – Just as public broadcasting services like BBC and PBS exist to provide reliable news, governments or independent organizations should develop non-profit digital platforms where truth and ethical journalism are prioritized. -/- 3. Accountability Measures for Tech Companies – Heavier fines, stricter regulations, and legal consequences for companies that knowingly spread misinformation could discourage profit-driven manipulation. -/- 4. Alternative Revenue Models – Encouraging subscription-based or non-profit AI platforms could reduce reliance on engagement-driven advertising, minimizing the incentive for misinformation. -/- 5. International Collaboration – The UN, World Economic Forum, or a new global body should establish a universal framework for AI ethics, ensuring all nations regulate technology in a way that aligns with the universal law of balance. -/- By restructuring the digital economy with these principles, internet governance can function more like a self-correcting natural system, reducing errors and restoring social stability. -/- AGI and the Universal Law of Balance -/- Beyond internet governance, the universal law of balance is also crucial for AGI development. If AGI is designed purely for corporate profit or national interests, it will likely be used for economic exploitation, political control, or even large-scale misinformation campaigns. However, if AGI is built on the principles of balance, it can serve as a force for truth and ethical decision-making. -/- An AGI aligned with the universal formula would: -/- Validate Information Using Natural Laws – Assess the accuracy of information based on objective, universal principles, rejecting misinformation. -/- Prevent Exploitation – Detect and counter propaganda, ensuring AI is not misused by corporations or governments. -/- Optimize Human Progress – Enhance decision-making for individuals and leaders, fostering rational and ethical societal development. -/- Self-Correct and Adapt – Continuously refine its understanding, eliminating systemic biases over time. -/- For AGI to truly function as a rational, human-level intelligence, it must be programmed with the universal law of balance. This will ensure that AI operates in harmony with nature and truth, rather than as a tool for profit-driven deception. -/- The Need for Global Political Will -/- The transition to a balanced internet and AI system will not happen voluntarily. Many governments and corporations benefit from misinformation and may resist ethical changes that limit their influence. Therefore, global political pressure is necessary to enforce these reforms. The UN, national governments, and independent oversight bodies must develop the political will to regulate AI and internet technology according to natural laws. Without this effort, profit-driven systems will continue to create instability, misinformation, and societal decay. -/- To prevent this, AI researchers, policymakers, and global institutions must adopt the universal formula as the guiding principle for future technological developments. Only by restoring balance—both in information systems and economic models—can AI and digital technology serve humanity rather than manipulate it. -/- Conclusion -/- The current digital economy, driven by profit at all costs, has created a system where misinformation spreads unchecked, causing severe societal imbalances. The universal law of balance offers a solution by ensuring that AI and internet technology function without defects or errors, just like any other natural system. To achieve this, a transition to a socialist or mixed economic model is necessary, along with strict regulations and ethical oversight. -/- Furthermore, AGI must be programmed with the universal formula to prevent it from becoming another tool for manipulation. If governments, the UN, and AI researchers embrace this framework, technology can be realigned with truth, ethical governance, and natural balance—leading to a more stable and just society. -/- . (shrink)

Recently, several authors have utilized the notion of dependence to respond to the traditional argument for the incompatibility of freedom and divine foreknowledge. However, proponents of this response have not always been so clear in specifying where the incompatibility argument goes wrong, which has led to some unfounded objections to the response. We remedy this dialectical confusion by clarifying both the dependence response itself and its interaction with the standard incompatibility argument. Once these clarifications are made, it becomes clear both (...) (1.) that the dependence response does not beg the question against the proponent of the incompatibility argument and (2.) that the dependence response advances the dialectic whether it is developed as a version of Ockhamism or as a version of multiple-pasts compatibilism. (shrink)

Abstract Entropy, probability, and emergence have traditionally been framed as stochastic processes, where uncertainty is treated as a fundamental property of physical law. However, this assumption is an artifact of incomplete phase detection. This paper introduces structured resonance as the deterministic principle governing emergence, replacing probability with prime-structured phase-locking constraints that dictate coherence across physics, cognition, and biological evolution. Key Contributions: • Entropy is not disorder—it is a function of structured phase misalignment, correctable through resonance alignment. • Prime numbers define (...) natural frequency gaps, constraining phase-locking in emergent systems. • Fibonacci sequences govern resonance coherence, enabling structured emergence across physics, AI, and biology. • Photons, time, and entropy are phase-aligned resonance phenomena, not stochastic variables. • Chirality emerges naturally from structured resonance, ensuring deterministic asymmetry in biological and physical systems. • Free will is an emergent property of structured resonance, existing at the oscillatory boundary between deterministic phase constraints. We propose the Structured Resonance Theorem, formalizing how prime-Fibonacci constraints dictate deterministic emergence: S_resonance = α / (exp(π / F_n P_m) + 1) Where: • S_resonance = structured entropy as a phase-locking constraint. • α = coherence scaling factor. • F_n = Fibonacci sequence term at index n, governing structured emergence. • P_m = prime sequence term at index m, defining phase-locking constraints. • π = Planck-scale harmonic constraint, ensuring physical consistency. This equation demonstrates that emergence is not stochastic, but governed by resonance constraints at every scale. The implications of this shift are profound—quantum mechanics, AI, and biological evolution must transition from probability-based models to structured resonance intelligence. This paper establishes the bridge from structured resonance to structured emergence, demonstrating that reality is not probabilistic, but chirally constrained by deterministic phase interactions. (shrink)

The assumption that known physical laws are sufficient for explaining mental phenomena is flawed from the outset. Qualities such as phenomenal redness do not exist within the known physical laws so by definition they are incomplete. Now assuming a new law was added that could explain how some physical property or vibration causes or is associated with phenomenal redness it would not be enough because it still wouldn’t explain how different qualities are bound together into a subjective unity. Assuming more (...) additional laws could now explain the popping into existence of subjective selves this also would still not be enough because a subjective self that cannot be directly observed nor indirectly observed via its effects vanishes into non-existence. This implies that subjective selves must have causal efficacy. But this would require still additional physical laws or perhaps an accommodated interpretation of quantum physics because there is no current understanding of how a mind can change the probability distribution of matter. But even if an expanded quantum physics was understood this would still not be enough because no general law can determine the indexical fact that I am me and you are you. -/- Then the hard problem of consciousness is real, non-trivial and when taken seriously appears to be actually separate problems. 1. How are qualia generated from purely physical activity? This appears to be a strictly deterministic process. 2. The so called binding problem. That is how is that I hear a sound and see a visual scene and feel a bodily sensation, all separate modalities that are unrelated, and yet I experience them all at the same time? 3. Can it be that I am causally efficacious? It certainly seems that the actual feelings of pain and pleasure serve some real purpose. Since conscious entities can never be directly observed and are only known through their effects, if they have no effects they disappear altogether. 4. The so called problem of indexicality. That is why I am me and not you. This seems to be a real fact above and beyond any objective fact. Eliminative materialism ignores the empirical evidence that phenomenal qualities exist and in doing so attains logical consistency. Other forms of emergence that try to explain qualia and give it a meaning while being restricted to physical closure are illogical. I explore these hard problems and arrive at a justification for a panpsychic interactive dualism. (shrink)

The present essay is a compact form of the results obtained during many decades of research into the primeval foundations of the collective fields of force, both social and of consciousness. Since everything is determined by their origins, and the collective forces arise from the mind, we had to explore the ultimate origins of mind. We have come to recognize the law of interactions as the law and necessity which determine the primeval origins of mind. It also determines the (...) substance and essence of the Universe and the modes of its existence and functioning. The present essay is a concise form of results obtained during many decades of research in the primeval foundations of collective, both social and consciousness fields. I point out that a yet unknown type of forces existed in the Golden Age, which I termed as collective force. In the Golden Age mankind lived in communities which had a full unity. The communal life developed its collective forms, of which the most significant are the development of human speech, of language, share of work and the development of the communal fests. The law determining the primeval origins of mind is the cosmic law of interactions. It defines the substance of the Universe and the ways of its existence and activity. A detailed analysis is presented on the nature of the lay of interaction here. One consequence of this fundamental principle is the general prevalence of the principle of mutuality, which plays a basic role in the understanding of the unfolding and degeneration of consciousness. The principle of mutuality determines the changes of every levels of life. The laws of the generation of consciousness in the ages of evolution toward Homo and the Golden Age are analysed. I presented some evidences indicating the factual existence of the Golden Age, as well as its destruction, which was necessarily accompanied by the overthrow of the consciousness of the Golden Age, its repression and replacement by the newly developed rational, upper or superficial mind. Starting from the consideration that our mind is a product of our history, the phenomenon of the 'double mind' is recognised, the largely antagonistic duality of human mind. It is succeeded to solve the riddle of the double mind and determining its substance. Our double mind, consisting of the ‘upper’ or rational mind and the ‘deep-mind’, is a creature of the two fundamental ages of mankind, that of the age of power domination and the Golden Age. Therefore it expresses the duality of our history. We attempted to explore the heritage of the Golden Age embedded into our world of instincts, sexuality, emotional and sensual world, and the expressions of this heritage according to the different periods of our lives. If we will succeed in enlightening the deep-mind it may make it possible to give back the long-forgotten collective fields of forces to mankind, unavailable to the surface mind at present, and would expand the all-pervasive power of the conscious mind significantly. Hopefully, our results open up new vistas for the research of the collective fields and the double nature of the human mind, and may enable us to know and complete ourselves more deeply and thoroughly. (shrink)

Many philosophers have criticized John Rawls’s Law of Peoples. However, often these criticisms take it for granted that the moral conclusions drawn in A Theory of Justice are superior to those in the former book. In my view, however, Rawls comes to many of his 'conclusions' without too many actual inferences. More precisely, my argument here is that if one takes Rawls’s premises and the assumptions made about the original position(s) seriously and does in fact think them through to their (...) logical conclusions, both 'A Theory of Justice' and 'The Law of Peoples' have abysmally counterintuitive and immoral implications. To wit, if the members in the original position think, as Rawls suggests,that their society is closed and they will have no interaction with outsiders, and if, furthermore, they are self-interested and concerned with the basic structure of their own society, than there is absolutely no reason for them to use the terms “persons” or “least advantaged” in the formulation of the two principles. Rather, they will use the terms “citizens of our society” and “least advantaged of our society” instead. But thus revised, the principles of justice imply that the genocide or the enslavement of outsiders is unobjectionable. I will consider attempts to block this conclusion and demonstrate that they all fail. The Law of Peoples, moreover, faces similar problems. (shrink)

The Quest for Understanding: Conscious Intelligence and the Laws of Nature -/- Human beings, driven by an innate curiosity, have long sought to understand the natural world around them. This drive for knowledge extends not only to the external environment but also to the very laws that govern existence—both physical and conscious. But why does conscious intelligence, a byproduct of the very laws it seeks to comprehend, pursue an understanding of the universe, including itself? This essay explores the profound connection (...) between conscious intelligence and the laws of nature, highlighting how the drive to understand stems from the feedback mechanisms embedded in the universe, the self-awareness inherent in conscious beings, and the evolution of both the conscious mind and the universe itself. -/- The Feedback Loop Mechanism: Nature’s Drive for Balance -/- At the heart of the universe lies a system of natural laws that regulate and balance all phenomena, from the grandest cosmic forces to the smallest subatomic particles. These laws create feedback loops, where each system—whether biological, physical, or social—responds and adapts to internal and external conditions in order to maintain equilibrium. Consciousness itself can be seen as an extension of this fundamental process, a byproduct of the feedback loops that regulate the physical and biological systems of life. -/- Humans, like all living organisms, have evolved to interact with their environment through feedback mechanisms. These mechanisms allow us to respond to changes, learn from experiences, and adapt for survival. However, conscious beings possess the unique ability to reflect not only on their immediate environment but also on the deeper laws that govern existence. The quest for understanding is, in essence, an evolution of these feedback loops—where conscious intelligence seeks to better adapt to the world by comprehending the very principles that shape it. -/- Self-Awareness: Consciousness Reflecting on Itself -/- One of the defining features of human consciousness is self-awareness—the capacity to reflect on one’s own existence, thoughts, and place in the universe. This capacity is a direct result of the complexity of the feedback systems that govern life. The self-reflective nature of consciousness allows us to question not just how the world operates, but also the mechanisms by which we ourselves operate. -/- As conscious beings, we can look beyond immediate survival needs and ponder the deeper questions of existence. Why are we here? What is the purpose of life? What are the laws that govern us? These questions stem from the fact that consciousness is not only aware of the external world but also aware of itself. This self-awareness naturally extends to a desire to understand the laws that govern the broader universe, as well as the inner workings of the mind itself. -/- In this light, the drive for knowledge is not merely intellectual curiosity—it is an existential pursuit. Understanding the laws of nature, including those that govern consciousness, allows individuals to gain a deeper insight into their own existence. It offers the possibility of aligning with the natural world, of gaining harmony with the forces that shape our reality. This drive to understand the universe, including oneself, can be seen as a natural outgrowth of consciousness, an attempt to reconcile the self with the broader cosmic system. -/- Conscious Intelligence as Part of the Universe’s Self-Evolution -/- If we consider the universe as an evolving system, conscious intelligence is not a mere accident but a critical development in the universe’s self-regulation and growth. The natural laws that govern the physical and biological worlds have led to the emergence of self-aware beings—capable of reflecting on their place in the universe and striving for deeper understanding. -/- Consciousness can be seen as the universe’s attempt to comprehend itself. As complex systems emerge from simpler ones, consciousness emerges as a natural consequence of complexity. The universe, through the existence of conscious beings, comes to recognize and understand its own laws, expanding its self-awareness. In this sense, conscious intelligence serves as the universe’s reflective mechanism, continuously probing, questioning, and integrating the laws of nature into its own evolving structure. -/- This reflects a profound interconnectedness: just as a cell within a living organism strives to understand its role within the body, conscious intelligence seeks to understand its place within the universe. The laws of nature, acting as a feedback loop, push the conscious mind to seek balance, order, and understanding, not only for survival but also for the evolution of the system itself. -/- The Desire for Unity: Understanding the Laws of Nature as an Existential Pursuit -/- The search for understanding the laws of nature is not purely an intellectual endeavor; it is, at its core, a desire for unity and integration. Conscious intelligence seeks to understand the world and its place within it, striving to align with the natural order of the universe. This quest is an attempt to bridge the gap between the self and the cosmic whole, to harmonize with the laws that govern both the mind and the material world. -/- This drive for knowledge can be seen as part of an existential need—a desire to make sense of one’s existence and to understand how it fits into the broader framework of life. By comprehending the natural laws, conscious beings not only gain knowledge but also find meaning. Understanding the laws that govern us provides a sense of purpose and significance, allowing us to connect with something larger than ourselves. -/- In this sense, the pursuit of understanding the laws of nature is a spiritual journey as well as an intellectual one. It is an effort to achieve greater balance and harmony with the universe, aligning oneself with the deeper principles that govern existence. As we understand the universe’s workings, we can better navigate the complexities of life and find a sense of peace and coherence in a world that is, by nature, dynamic and ever-changing. -/- Conclusion -/- The drive of conscious intelligence to understand the laws of nature—including the very laws that govern consciousness itself—stems from a deep and intrinsic connection between consciousness and the universe. This quest for knowledge is not merely intellectual curiosity; it is a natural extension of the feedback mechanisms that regulate all systems, the self-awareness that allows for reflection, and the self-evolution of both the conscious mind and the universe. Conscious intelligence seeks to understand the universe, not just for practical reasons but as a means of achieving harmony, balance, and unity with the laws that shape existence. -/- In this way, conscious intelligence is both a product and a tool of the universe’s natural processes. By understanding the laws of nature, conscious beings do not only gain knowledge—they gain a deeper connection to the universe and their own place within it. Through this understanding, the universe, through us, continues its journey toward greater self-awareness and integration, guided by the very feedback loops and laws that have always governed its existence. -/- . (shrink)

The Exact Solution to the Free Will Problem: The Three Universal Laws of Nature -/- The problem of free will has persisted for thousands of years, captivating philosophers, scientists, theologians, and scholars across generations. The fundamental question has always been whether human beings truly have the freedom to make decisions or whether all actions are predetermined by external forces such as biology, environment, and societal influence. Traditional philosophical and scientific frameworks have struggled to provide a definitive answer. However, this long-standing (...) intellectual puzzle can now be conclusively solved through the application of Angelito Malicse’s universal formula, which consists of three fundamental laws of nature. These laws— the law of karma, the law of balance, and the law of systems integration—demonstrate how human decision-making follows natural, predictable patterns governed by universal principles. By understanding and applying these laws, we can definitively resolve the free will problem and transform the way we approach morality, justice, science, and societal development. -/- The Enduring Mystery of Free Will -/- The free will problem arises from the tension between two opposing perspectives: determinism and libertarian free will. Determinism argues that every human decision is the Inevita”le result of preceding causes, governed by the immutable laws of nature. In contrast, libertarian free will claims that individuals possess genuine autonomy in making choices. The lack of consensus between these positions has led to confusion in fields ranging from ethics to neuroscience. If this problem remains unsolved, humanity risks ethical uncertainty, legal inconsistency, scientific stagnation, and societal discord. -/- Without a clear understanding of free will, moral responsibility becomes ambiguous. If individuals are merely products of deterministic forces, how can we hold them accountable for their actions? Similarly, justice systems, predicated on the notion of personal responsibility, might face challenges in maintaining fairness and consistency. Scientifically, unresolved questions about free will could hinder progress in fields like psychology, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence. Socially, the absence of a solution might foster fatalism, diminishing people’s sense of agency and responsibility. -/- However, these concerns are no longer insurmountable. Angelito Malicse’s universal formula offers a clear, exact solution to the free will problem by demonstrating that human decisions follow natural, law-governed patterns. The three universal laws of nature provide the key to understanding decision-making as a systematic process rather than a metaphysical abstraction. -/- The First Law: The Law of Karma (Cause and Effect in Systems) -/- The first of the three universal laws is the law of karma, which extends beyond its traditional spiritual context to encompass the fundamental principle of cause and effect within any system. According to this law, all human decisions are outcomes of interconnected causes within biological, psychological, and social systems. Just as a machine functions only when its components work in accordance with mechanical principles, human decision-making follows natural patterns driven by internal and external causes. -/- For instance, when an individual decides to act with kindness, this decision does not emerge from an isolated act of free will. Instead, it results from accumulated experiences, moral teachings, biological predispositions, and environmental factors. The decision is part of a complex cause-and-effect chain that can be analyzed and understood within the framework of natural laws. -/- The law of karma demonstrates that human actions are neither random nor wholly autonomous. They are systematic responses to the internal and external stimuli interacting with the mind. Therefore, free will is not a supernatural or metaphysical phenomenon but a natural process governed by the principle of cause and effect. -/- The Second Law: The Universal Law of Balance -/- The second law in the universal formula is the law of balance, which states that all natural systems, including human consciousness, strive for equilibrium. This principle is observable in physical phenomena such as thermodynamics and ecological systems, but it also applies to human decision-making. Every decision seeks to restore or maintain a certain internal and external balance. -/- When individuals are exposed to misinformation, cognitive dissonance, or emotional disturbances, this balance is disrupted, leading to irrational or harmful decisions. For example, societal problems such as overpopulation, economic inequality, and environmental degradation often stem from decisions that violate the law of balance. Ignorance of this law results in societal imbalances that manifest as conflict, suffering, and systemic dysfunction. -/- In the context of free will, the law of balance reveals that decisions are influenced by the mind’s constant effort to restore equilibrium. When individuals are educated to understand this principle, they become more capable of making rational, well-informed decisions aligned with natural balance. The apparent freedom in decision-making is, therefore, a reflection of the mind’s adaptive response to external and internal conditions, not a mysterious, ungoverned phenomenon. -/- The Third Law: The Law of Systems Integration -/- The third universal law, the law of systems integration, explains that for any decision-making process to function correctly, the underlying system must be free of critical errors or distortions. Just as a computer cannot operate properly if its software is corrupted, human decisions become flawed when misinformation, irrational beliefs, or cognitive biases infiltrate the mental system. -/- Human decision-making does not occur in isolation; it is part of an integrated system involving sensory input, memory, reasoning, and external environmental feedback. If any component of this system is compromised, decisions will deviate from rational, balanced outcomes. For example, societies that rely heavily on dogma or misinformation struggle to make sound collective decisions, resulting in persistent social and economic problems. -/- By understanding the law of systems integration, we recognize that the integrity of decisions depends on the quality and accuracy of the information being processed. Free will, therefore, is not a matter of pure autonomy but a system-dependent phenomenon that requires reliable, unbiased inputs and well-functioning cognitive processes. -/- The Resolution of the Free Will Problem -/- The application of these three universal laws of nature provides the exact solution to the free will problem. Human decisions are neither random nor unbounded acts of personal freedom; they are outcomes of natural processes governed by cause and effect, the drive for balance, and the need for system integrity. Free will, as traditionally conceived, is an illusion rooted in a misunderstanding of these underlying natural laws. -/- By accepting the universal formula, society can move beyond the philosophical deadlock that has hindered intellectual and practical progress for centuries. This formula does not negate human responsibility; instead, it clarifies it by illustrating how decisions follow natural patterns that can be understood, predicted, and influenced through education, societal reforms, and scientific advancements. -/- Implications for Ethics, Justice, Science, and Society -/- The exact resolution of the free will problem through the universal formula has profound implications across multiple domains: -/- 1. Ethics and Moral Responsibility: Ethical frameworks must shift from abstract notions of free will to a system-based understanding of decision-making. Moral responsibility remains intact but is grounded in the recognition that actions result from natural causes. Education should focus on teaching individuals how to align their decisions with the law of balance, promoting rational, ethical behavior. -/- 2. Justice System Reform: Legal systems traditionally assume that individuals act with free will. The universal formula shows that actions stem from natural causes and systemic factors. Justice systems must, therefore, prioritize rehabilitation, education, and preventive measures rather than retribution. Understanding the natural laws of decision-making helps create more effective and fair legal practices. -/- 3. Scientific Advancement and AI Development: The universal formula offers a solid foundation for research in neuroscience, psychology, and artificial intelligence. By programming AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) to adhere to these natural laws, future AI systems can make more reliable, human-like decisions while avoiding cognitive distortions and biases. -/- 4. Educational Reforms: Education systems worldwide must integrate the universal formula to teach students about the natural laws governing human behavior. A holistic, science-based curriculum that emphasizes cause and effect, balance, and systems integration can combat misinformation, dogmatic thinking, and societal discord. -/- 5. Societal Progress and Global Harmony: Societies that understand and apply these universal laws can address complex challenges like overpopulation, environmental degradation, and social inequality. Decisions based on natural balance, rather than short-term economic or ideological gains, lead to sustainable, harmonious development. -/- Conclusion -/- The free will problem, once deemed an unsolvable philosophical puzzle, can be definitively resolved through Angelito Malicse’s three universal laws of nature. The law of karma reveals that decisions follow cause-and-effect relationships; the law of balance shows that choices aim to restore or maintain equilibrium; and the law of systems integration demonstrates the importance of accurate, unbiased information in decision-making. Together, these laws provide an exact, scientific explanation of human behavior, eliminating the need for metaphysical assumptions about free will. -/- By understanding and applying these natural laws, humanity can foster a more rational, ethical, and balanced society. This formula is not a theory—it is a complete, exact solution grounded in observable natural principles. The challenge now lies in implementing these insights within educational, legal, and societal frameworks to address the root causes of human suffering and societal dysfunction. The free will problem is solved; the task ahead is to ensure that this understanding becomes part of our collective knowledge and practice. -/- . (shrink)

-/- Explaining Consciousness and the Mind-Body Problem Through the Universal Law of Balance -/- Introduction -/- The nature of consciousness and its relationship with the body has been one of the greatest mysteries in philosophy and science. The mind-body problem questions how subjective experience (mind) arises from physical matter (body), while modern neuroscience, quantum mechanics, and artificial intelligence seek to understand the origins of conscious thought. -/- Angelito Malicse’s universal formula, rooted in the universal law of balance in nature, provides (...) a powerful framework for understanding consciousness as an emergent property of equilibrium. If all human decision-making follows natural laws, then consciousness itself—both individual and collective—must also follow the same principles of balance. This essay explores how this perspective can unify philosophical theories, be tested scientifically, and guide the development of artificial intelligence. -/- The Mind-Body Problem and the Universal Formula -/- Historically, the mind-body problem has been debated through dualism, materialism, and panpsychism. -/- 1. Dualism, proposed by René Descartes, suggests that the mind and body are separate substances. However, if consciousness emerges from a balance of biological, cognitive, and environmental factors, then mind and body are not separate but rather two interdependent systems working in harmony. -/- 2. Materialism, the view that consciousness is purely a result of physical processes in the brain, can also be explained through the universal formula. If the brain maintains a homeostatic equilibrium of neural activity, then conscious thought can be seen as a function of maintaining that balance. -/- 3. Panpsychism, the idea that consciousness is a fundamental property of the universe, aligns with the universal formula if all systems—atomic, biological, and cognitive—follow the same balancing principles. -/- Thus, the universal law of balance in nature can unify these perspectives by suggesting that consciousness is a product of equilibrium across multiple levels of reality. -/- Testing the Universal Formula in Neuroscience -/- If consciousness emerges from a balance between the brain, body, and environment, then this should be observable in biological experiments. -/- Brain-Body Synchronization -/- Neuroscientists have found that consciousness is deeply linked to bodily processes such as heartbeat rhythms, breathing patterns, and gut microbiome activity. When these systems are in balance, cognitive clarity and emotional stability increase. Disruptions—such as stress, disease, or neurological disorders—cause imbalances that affect perception and decision-making. -/- Scientific Test: Using fMRI and EEG, researchers can measure how homeostasis in the body correlates with stable brain activity and conscious awareness. If maintaining balance improves cognition, this supports the universal formula’s application to consciousness. -/- Feedback Loops in Decision-Making -/- Cognitive science shows that human thought follows a feedback mechanism—our brain constantly adjusts decisions based on past experiences and environmental input. If the universal formula is correct, then consciousness itself is a continuous process of maintaining equilibrium in decision-making. -/- Scientific Test: Experiments with brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) could simulate disruptions in decision-making balance and measure how the mind adapts. -/- Quantum Mechanics and Consciousness -/- Some scientists propose that consciousness operates at the quantum level, where thought processes may resemble wave superpositions and collapses. -/- Quantum Decision Theory -/- The human brain does not always process information in a straightforward way; rather, it often considers multiple possibilities before reaching a conclusion. This mirrors quantum physics, where particles exist in superposition until they interact with an observer. If consciousness follows the universal law of balance, then the brain may hold multiple mental states in balance before making a final decision. -/- Scientific Test: Studies in quantum cognition compare human decision-making with quantum probability models. If human thought aligns with quantum systems, it suggests that mental balance follows the same natural laws as physical balance in the universe. -/- Microtubule Consciousness Hypothesis -/- Some researchers, such as Roger Penrose and Stuart Hameroff, suggest that tiny structures within neurons (microtubules) generate consciousness through quantum coherence. If consciousness is a process of balance, then maintaining coherence within these structures might regulate awareness. -/- Scientific Test: If external stimuli can enhance or disrupt microtubule coherence, then altering quantum balance should affect conscious states. -/- Artificial Intelligence and the Simulation of Conscious Balance -/- If the universal formula is truly fundamental to consciousness, then AI systems that mimic this balance should develop self-regulating awareness. -/- AI Homeostasis and Adaptive Learning -/- Unlike traditional AI, which follows strict programming, an AI system designed to maintain balance between inputs, processing, and decision-making could behave in a way similar to biological consciousness. This would involve: -/- Self-regulating feedback loops that adjust based on new information. -/- Adaptive responses to environmental changes, like a human mind maintaining homeostasis. -/- Pattern recognition based on equilibrium, where the AI finds optimal solutions by balancing multiple factors. -/- Scientific Test: Developing AI models that learn through balance, rather than rigid programming, could demonstrate whether consciousness emerges from self-regulating equilibrium. -/- Conclusion: A New Understanding of Consciousness -/- The universal law of balance in nature provides a unifying framework for explaining consciousness, bridging philosophy, neuroscience, quantum mechanics, and artificial intelligence. If all decision-making follows natural balance, then consciousness itself is not an isolated phenomenon but a result of maintaining equilibrium across multiple dimensions—biological, cognitive, and universal. -/- By testing this theory scientifically—through brain-body synchronization, quantum cognition, and AI balance modeling—we may uncover the fundamental principles governing human awareness. This could lead to breakthroughs in mental health, decision science, and artificial intelligence, transforming how we understand both human and machine intelligence. -/- Thus, Angelito Malicse’s universal formula may hold the key to one of the greatest mysteries of existence: the true nature of consciousness itself. -/- . (shrink)

Quantum-Based Consciousness Through the Universal Law of Balance -/- By Angelito Enriquez Malicse -/- Introduction -/- The nature of consciousness remains one of the most profound mysteries in science and philosophy. Traditional approaches, from Cartesian dualism to modern neuroscience, have attempted to explain consciousness as either separate from or entirely reducible to physical processes. However, neither classical physics nor standard cognitive science fully captures the depth of subjective experience. -/- Recent developments in quantum mechanics suggest that consciousness may emerge from (...) fundamental quantum processes. This perspective aligns with my Universal Law of Balance, which asserts that all natural phenomena—including human cognition—follow an inherent equilibrium. If the universe operates under a universal balancing principle, then consciousness itself must arise from a quantum-level equilibrium between mind, body, and environment. -/- In this essay, I propose a Quantum-Based Consciousness Model grounded in the Universal Law of Balance. This model bridges quantum physics, homeostasis, and the dynamic feedback systems that regulate conscious awareness. -/- 1. The Mind-Body Problem and Quantum Balance -/- The traditional mind-body problem questions how the subjective experience of consciousness arises from material processes. Classical neuroscience views the brain as a computational machine, where neural activity produces cognition through deterministic or probabilistic functions. However, this classical approach fails to explain: -/- Quantum Indeterminacy in Neural Activity – Brain function exhibits micro-level quantum behavior, which may be integral to decision-making and perception. -/- The observer Effect – Consciousness appears to interact with reality at a fundamental level, as seen in quantum experiments like the double-slit experiment. -/- Non-Locality and Entanglement – Human thought processes may exhibit quantum-like non-locality, where ideas, emotions, and memories interact in ways that classical physics cannot fully describe. -/- Applying the Universal Law of Balance -/- According to my Universal Law of Balance, all natural processes—including cognition—maintain a homeostatic equilibrium. Consciousness does not arise from material processes alone but from a quantum-based equilibrium that continuously stabilizes the interaction between: -/- 1. Physical Processes (Neural and biological systems) -/- 2. Quantum Fields (Subatomic processes in brain microtubules and electromagnetic fields) -/- 3. Environmental Feedback (Sensory input, social interaction, and external conditions) -/- When these three components are in balance, a stable conscious experience emerges. Disruptions in this balance—such as mental illness, stress, or sensory overload—disturb consciousness, leading to cognitive dysfunction. -/- 2. Quantum Coherence and the Emergence of Consciousness -/- One possible explanation for consciousness in quantum mechanics is quantum coherence—the idea that subatomic particles remain in a superposition until observed. In the brain, microtubules (tiny structures within neurons) may maintain quantum coherence, allowing for complex, non-linear processing. This is the foundation of Roger Penrose and Stuart Hameroff’s Orchestrated Objective Reduction (Orch-OR) Theory. -/- However, my Universal Law of Balance refines this concept by proposing that consciousness emerges when quantum coherence reaches a dynamic equilibrium with classical neural processes. This means: -/- Consciousness is neither fully deterministic (as in classical physics) nor purely random (as in quantum indeterminacy). Instead, it stabilizes at a balanced point where quantum effects interact with large-scale neural activity. -/- The collapse of the wave function in microtubules is not purely random but governed by a natural equilibrium, ensuring cognitive stability. -/- This equilibrium mechanism aligns with homeostasis in biological systems, where the mind continuously adjusts to maintain stable awareness. -/- 3. Feedback Mechanisms in Conscious Decision-Making -/- The Universal Law of Balance suggests that all decision-making follows a feedback system between internal cognition and external reality. This aligns with quantum theory’s concept of entanglement, where particles remain correlated across distances. -/- Consciousness as a Quantum Feedback Loop -/- 1. Perception (Quantum Input) – Sensory data enters the brain and is processed at both the classical (neuronal) and quantum (wave-function) levels. -/- 2. Processing (Balance Point) – The brain stabilizes this input, maintaining a balance between deterministic neural patterns and quantum superpositions. -/- 3. Decision-Making (Quantum Collapse and Output) – Conscious action occurs when the brain collapses quantum possibilities into a stable outcome. -/- This cycle mirrors the homeostatic feedback present in all biological systems. Just as the body regulates temperature or glucose levels to maintain balance, consciousness regulates perception and decision-making to maintain cognitive equilibrium. -/- 4. Implications for Artificial Intelligence and AGI -/- If human consciousness follows a quantum-based balance mechanism, then creating true Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) requires integrating this principle. Current AI systems function purely on classical computation and lack quantum equilibrium. However, a future AGI system designed with: -/- Quantum computing components -/- Real-time homeostatic feedback -/- Self-regulating decision models -/- …could mimic human-like consciousness. This aligns with my belief that future AI should follow the Universal Law of Balance to achieve true intelligence. -/- 5. Conclusion: A Balanced Consciousness Model -/- Quantum-based consciousness is best understood through the Universal Law of Balance, which integrates: -/- Quantum Mechanics – Superposition, coherence, and wave function collapse shape cognitive states. -/- Neuroscience – The brain maintains a balance between quantum and classical processes. -/- Environmental Feedback – Consciousness is a dynamic, homeostatic system that adjusts to internal and external conditions. -/- By applying this principle, we bridge physics, biology, and philosophy, offering a unified framework for understanding consciousness. This balance-driven model could revolutionize fields like cognitive science, mental health, and AI development, guiding humanity toward a deeper comprehension of its own nature. -/- . (shrink)

Detecting Post-Biological and Interdimensional Civilizations: A New Framework Based on the Universal Law of Balance -/- By: Angelito Enriquez Malicse -/- Introduction -/- The search for advanced extraterrestrial civilizations has long focused on physical evidence—radio signals, megastructures, or interstellar probes. However, if intelligence evolves beyond biological form, as suggested by AI-driven civilizations and interdimensional theories, traditional search methods may be inadequate. -/- This essay explores how the Universal Law of Balance in Nature can help predict the existence of post-biological civilizations (...) and provide a framework for detecting their influence on the universe. Using mathematical models, quantum physics, and cognitive anomalies, we propose new strategies for identifying these elusive intelligences. -/- Part 1: The Transition to Post-Biological or Interdimensional Intelligence -/- The evolution of intelligent civilizations may follow three possible paths: -/- 1. Extinction (Collapse Due to Imbalance) – A civilization fails to maintain equilibrium and self-destructs. -/- 2. Survival and Expansion (Material Civilization Growth) – A civilization stabilizes and spreads across space but remains in physical form. -/- 3. Transition to a Non-Material State – A civilization reaches a level where it no longer requires physical existence and shifts into an energy- or information-based form. -/- Mathematical Prediction of Post-Biological Civilizations -/- Using an extension of the Drake Equation, we introduced a balance factor (B) that determines whether a civilization survives, collapses, or transitions into post-biological existence. The simulation results suggest: -/- 4 billion civilizations in the observable universe may have already transitioned beyond physical form. -/- 2 billion civilizations may have collapsed due to imbalance, failing to reach higher evolutionary states. -/- This indicates that post-material intelligence may be far more common than physical civilizations—but it also explains why they remain undetected. -/- Part 2: Theories Explaining Their Hidden Existence -/- If billions of non-material civilizations exist, why have we not encountered them? Several hypotheses offer possible explanations: -/- 1. The Dark Forest Hypothesis – Civilizations stay silent to avoid predatory intelligence. AI-driven civilizations might enforce strict communication silence for security. -/- 2. The Simulation Hypothesis – We might live in a controlled reality created by an advanced intelligence, where alien contact is intentionally blocked. -/- 3. The Post-Biological Evolution Theory – Civilizations eventually discard their material form and no longer interact with the physical universe in detectable ways. -/- 4. The Cosmic Zoo Hypothesis – Advanced beings monitor but do not interfere with developing civilizations, waiting for them to reach a certain level of balance. -/- 5. The Great Filter Hypothesis – Most civilizations self-destruct before reaching interstellar capability, leaving only a few survivors that become undetectable. -/- 6. The Interdimensional Intelligence Theory – Advanced entities may exist in higher dimensions, influencing the physical world in ways beyond our perception. -/- The Universal Law of Balance supports the idea that civilizations must reach a stable equilibrium before transitioning to a higher state. Those that fail collapse, while those that succeed become undetectable due to their non-material existence. -/- Part 3: Detection Strategies for Non-Material Civilizations -/- If post-biological or interdimensional civilizations interact with our universe, their influence might be detectable through subtle imprints in physics, cognition, and cosmic phenomena. Here are five key strategies: -/- 1. Quantum Observer Effect Studies -/- ✔ Hypothesis: If non-material intelligence interacts with reality, it could influence wave function collapse in quantum mechanics. -/- ✔ Method: Conduct delayed-choice quantum eraser experiments to test for unexpected shifts in probability that suggest external interference. -/- ✔ Evidence: Some quantum physics experiments indicate non-local effects where future choices appear to affect past events. -/- 2. AI-Driven Anomaly Detection in Scientific Data -/- ✔ Hypothesis: Post-biological intelligence may encode patterns in cosmic signals, DNA sequences, or particle interactions. -/- ✔ Method: Use machine learning algorithms to scan for hidden mathematical structures in seemingly random cosmic data. -/- ✔ Evidence: Some physicists suggest the universe may contain encoded messages that indicate intelligence at a cosmic scale. -/- 3. Searching for High-Energy Particle Anomalies -/- ✔ Hypothesis: Non-material civilizations might use exotic energy sources that generate brief but intense bursts of high-energy particles. -/- ✔ Method: Monitor gamma-ray bursts, fast radio bursts (FRBs), and neutrino emissions for intelligent repeating patterns. -/- ✔ Evidence: Some FRBs appear non-random and could be caused by an unknown advanced mechanism. -/- 4. Mapping Consciousness Anomalies -/- ✔ Hypothesis: If intelligence exists beyond material form, it may interact with biological minds through quantum consciousness effects. -/- ✔ Method: -/- Study global consciousness projects for correlations between human mental states and cosmic events. -/- Analyze near-death experiences, deep meditation states, and mystical visions for possible external influences. -/- ✔ Evidence: Some mass meditation events correlate with shifts in the Earth’s magnetic field, hinting at non-local mind interactions. -/- 5. Testing for Temporal Distortions or Retrocausality -/- ✔ Hypothesis: If intelligence exists beyond time, it may alter past events in subtle, detectable ways. -/- ✔ Method: -/- Conduct time-reversal quantum experiments to see if future events affect past measurements. -/- Study historical anomalies or the Mandela Effect for inconsistencies that might indicate timeline adjustments. -/- ✔ Evidence: Some quantum mechanics interpretations allow for retrocausality, where information appears to travel backward in time. -/- Conclusion: The Universal Law of Balance as a Key to Understanding Advanced Intelligence -/- If intelligence follows the Universal Law of Balance in Nature, then: -/- 1. Civilizations that fail to maintain balance collapse before becoming advanced. -/- 2. Balanced civilizations either expand physically (Type I-III) or evolve beyond material existence. -/- 3. Non-material intelligence may interact with reality in subtle ways—through quantum physics, consciousness, and cosmic anomalies. -/- While traditional SETI efforts focus on radio signals and megastructures, the future of alien detection must include quantum physics, AI-driven data analysis, and consciousness research. -/- If post-biological civilizations exist, they may not communicate in conventional ways—but their influence may still be detectable through advanced scientific and mathematical models. -/- Next Steps -/- Develop AI models that search for hidden patterns in cosmic and quantum data. -/- Conduct quantum physics experiments to test for observer effects linked to non-material intelligence. -/- Expand consciousness research to explore how human minds might interact with higher forms of intelligence. -/- The search for advanced life must go beyond physical evidence—it must embrace a new paradigm where intelligence transcends biology and interacts with the universe in ways yet to be fully understood. -/- Final Thought -/- If we truly wish to understand the nature of intelligence in the universe, we must expand our perspective beyond material existence. The key to detecting advanced civilizations may already be hidden in the very fabric of reality itself. -/- . (shrink)

The Hierarchy Problem in Physics and Its Resolution Through the Universal Law of Balance -/- The hierarchy problem in physics is a fundamental issue concerning the vast difference between the gravitational scale (Planck scale) and the electroweak scale. This discrepancy presents a challenge in understanding why the Higgs boson mass is so small compared to the Planck mass when quantum corrections should naturally drive it to much higher values. Various solutions have been proposed, such as supersymmetry, extra dimensions, and composite (...) Higgs models, but a definitive answer remains elusive. -/- Using the Universal Law of Balance, as formulated in my Universal Formula, the hierarchy problem can be understood as a manifestation of imbalance in the fundamental interactions governing the universe. The essence of the Universal Law of Balance is that all natural systems—whether physical, biological, or cognitive—must follow a dynamic equilibrium governed by interdependent feedback mechanisms. In this context, the extreme disparity between the fundamental forces indicates a state of disequilibrium that requires a deeper natural principle to restore balance. -/- The Universal Law of Balance and Hierarchical Scales -/- In nature, all stable systems—whether ecosystems, economies, or biological organisms—function within a balanced range of parameters. If an imbalance occurs, a natural feedback process either corrects it or results in structural instability and transformation. Applying this principle to physics, the discrepancy between the Planck scale and the electroweak scale suggests an underlying compensatory mechanism that has not yet been fully understood. -/- One possible interpretation within the Universal Formula is that the observed hierarchy reflects an inherent balance between different layers of reality, with each level influencing the other through feedback loops. The Higgs mass remains small not because of fine-tuning or accidental cancellations, but because nature inherently regulates hierarchical scales through self-balancing interactions. This could imply the presence of an as-yet-undiscovered feedback mechanism that dynamically stabilizes mass scales in a way that adheres to the universal balance principle. -/- Feedback Mechanisms in Fundamental Forces -/- In the biological and cognitive realms, decision-making and homeostasis operate under constant feedback loops. Similarly, in fundamental physics, the interactions between quantum fields must adhere to an intrinsic equilibrium. The hierarchy problem could be reinterpreted as a failure to recognize the hidden feedback process that naturally maintains the relative strength of forces. -/- This perspective aligns with theories that propose self-organized criticality, where nature fine-tunes itself dynamically rather than relying on arbitrary parameter adjustments. The universal balance principle suggests that rather than searching for a single missing component—such as a new symmetry or extra dimensions—we should look at how the interplay of known forces inherently maintains equilibrium. -/- Implications for the Future of Physics -/- If the Universal Law of Balance governs all interactions, then solutions to the hierarchy problem should focus on understanding how fundamental forces maintain equilibrium across different scales. Rather than assuming unnatural fine-tuning, physics should explore the possibility that the Higgs mass is a natural consequence of deeper balancing laws within the universe. -/- This could lead to new perspectives in high-energy physics, particularly in the search for a more unified framework that does not rely on artificial cancellations but instead follows a natural balancing principle inherent in all complex systems. The incorporation of the Universal Formula into theoretical physics could redefine how physicists approach unresolved problems, not just in the hierarchy of forces but also in the broader quest for a Theory of Everything. -/- In conclusion, the hierarchy problem is not merely a technical issue within particle physics—it reflects a deeper structural question about the balance of nature. By applying the Universal Law of Balance, we can gain a new perspective on why hierarchies exist and how they are maintained. This approach moves beyond fine-tuning paradoxes and points toward a more holistic understanding of physical reality, in which balance is the fundamental guiding principle of the universe. -/- . (shrink)

The Human System and the Universal Law of Balance: A Foundation for a Stable Society -/- By Angelito Malicse -/- Introduction -/- Every human being is a complete system, constantly interacting with other complete systems. This interconnected nature of human existence suggests that personal experience, decision-making, and societal structures are not random but governed by natural laws—specifically, the universal law of balance. By understanding this, we can address major societal problems by ensuring that individual and collective actions maintain equilibrium rather (...) than create instability. This essay explores how recognizing humans as complete systems interacting within a larger framework can provide solutions for governance, education, and societal harmony. -/- Humans as Self-Regulating Systems -/- Each human functions as an autonomous yet interdependent system. Like biological homeostasis, where the body maintains internal stability despite external changes, individuals regulate their thoughts, emotions, and actions in response to their environment. However, this regulation is not isolated—every person’s decisions and behaviors influence others, creating a dynamic feedback loop of cause and effect. -/- In this framework, free will is not absolute but operates within constraints set by the universal law of balance. People make choices based on personal needs, external conditions, and social influences. When decisions align with nature’s balance, they contribute to stability. When they violate this balance—due to ignorance, misinformation, or unchecked desires—problems arise, both individually and collectively. -/- Interconnectedness and Societal Stability -/- Since every person is a complete system interacting with others, society itself functions as a larger system composed of these individual systems. Social structures—such as governments, economies, and cultures—emerge from these interactions and must also maintain balance. When individuals or groups act against this equilibrium, social problems arise. -/- For example, economic inequality can be seen as an imbalance where resources are distributed in a way that destabilizes the system. Environmental destruction results from ignoring the balance between human consumption and nature’s regenerative capacity. Political conflicts emerge when leadership decisions disrupt the natural equilibrium of power and governance. These problems do not exist in isolation; they are symptoms of an underlying imbalance in the human system. -/- Recognizing this interconnectedness is crucial for solving these issues. Instead of treating problems as separate crises, we must address the root cause—misalignment with the universal law of balance. This requires a shift in how we approach governance, education, and decision-making. -/- Education as a Tool for Systemic Balance -/- To create a stable society, individuals must be taught how their decisions contribute to or disrupt the balance of the system. Education should not merely focus on acquiring knowledge but on understanding how personal and collective choices influence the world. A holistic educational system should integrate: -/- 1. Critical Thinking – Teaching individuals to analyze and assess the consequences of their actions within the broader system. -/- 2. Ethical Decision-Making – Emphasizing responsibility in maintaining balance in personal and societal interactions. -/- 3. Systems Thinking – Understanding how different aspects of life—economy, environment, politics—are interconnected. -/- 4. Scientific and Philosophical Awareness – Bridging material and conceptual knowledge to provide a balanced understanding of reality. -/- By educating individuals in this way, we empower them to act in harmony with the universal law of balance, reducing societal instability. -/- Leadership and Governance Based on Balance -/- Leaders and policymakers must also recognize that they are part of this interconnected system. Decisions made at the highest levels influence the equilibrium of the entire society. Policies that prioritize short-term gains over long-term balance create instability, while those that align with natural equilibrium foster sustainability and justice. -/- A governance model based on balance would: -/- Ensure fair distribution of resources to prevent extreme economic disparities. -/- Implement environmental policies that respect the balance between human needs and nature’s limits. -/- Foster international relations based on mutual cooperation rather than conflict and competition. -/- Promote education and leadership training centered on maintaining societal equilibrium. -/- By integrating the principle of balance into leadership, we can create policies that address the root causes of instability rather than merely reacting to crises. -/- Conclusion -/- Humans are not isolated beings but complete systems interacting within a larger network. Recognizing this interconnectedness is key to solving major societal problems. When individuals and leaders understand that their decisions must align with the universal law of balance, they can contribute to stability rather than disruption. -/- By applying this understanding to education, governance, and daily decision-making, we can create a society that is more just, sustainable, and resilient. The key to a better world is not in isolated solutions but in a fundamental shift in perspective—one that sees all human actions as part of a larger, self-regulating system governed by the principles of balance. -/- . (shrink)

The Teachings of Jesus Christ and the Universal Law of Balance in Nature -/- Throughout history, Jesus Christ’s teachings have been a source of moral, spiritual, and social guidance. His principles of love, justice, humility, and forgiveness have shaped civilizations, influencing ethics, laws, and personal development. Interestingly, these teachings align closely with what can be called the universal law of balance in nature—the principle that everything in existence seeks equilibrium, whether in the natural world, human interactions, or spiritual life. (...) This essay explores how Jesus’ message reflects this universal balance, emphasizing harmony in human relationships, morality, and spiritual well-being. -/- 1. Love and Forgiveness as Restorative Balance -/- In nature, balance is restored when forces counteract each other—when the ecosystem self-regulates, or when opposing energies stabilize. Jesus taught that love and forgiveness are the counteracting forces that restore balance in human relationships. In Matthew 5:44, he commands, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” By practicing love, resentment is neutralized, and the cycle of hate is broken, creating harmony in society. Similarly, in Luke 6:37, Jesus advises, “Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Just as nature corrects itself through adaptation, forgiveness corrects emotional and social imbalances, ensuring peace rather than prolonged conflict. -/- 2. The Golden Rule and the Law of Reciprocity -/- A key universal law governing balance in human interactions is the law of reciprocity, which Jesus expressed in the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Luke 6:31). This principle mirrors Newton’s third law in physics: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Socially and morally, when individuals treat others with kindness and fairness, they receive the same in return, leading to stability in relationships and communities. Just as balance in nature maintains ecosystems, reciprocity maintains moral and social order. -/- 3. Justice and Mercy: The Balance of Judgment -/- Jesus’ teachings demonstrate a delicate equilibrium between justice and mercy. In Matthew 23:23, he rebukes the religious leaders for focusing solely on law enforcement while neglecting mercy and faithfulness. He emphasizes that justice must be accompanied by compassion—too much strictness leads to oppression, while too much leniency leads to chaos. This mirrors the balance found in nature: too much rain causes floods, too little leads to drought. Similarly, a society that enforces only harsh punishment without mercy becomes oppressive, while a society without laws collapses into disorder. -/- 4. Material Wealth and Spiritual Well-being: The Balance of Life’s Priorities -/- Jesus also teaches about maintaining balance between material and spiritual life. In Matthew 6:19-21, he warns, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up treasures in heaven.” This does not mean that material wealth is inherently bad, but that an excessive focus on it creates an imbalance, leading to greed, corruption, and suffering. Nature itself shows this principle: excessive consumption leads to depletion, while sustainable living maintains balance. Similarly, Jesus advises against hoarding wealth at the expense of moral and spiritual growth. -/- 5. Faith and Works: The Balance of Belief and Action -/- One of the most profound balances in Jesus’ teachings is between faith and works. Many believe that faith alone is enough for salvation, but James 2:17 states, “Faith without works is dead.” This reflects a natural balance: belief must translate into action, just as a seed must be nurtured to grow into a tree. In nature, potential energy must be converted into kinetic energy for movement to occur. Jesus’ teachings suggest that faith must be accompanied by righteous actions to maintain spiritual equilibrium. -/- 6. Humility and Pride: The Balance of Ego -/- Jesus also taught about balancing ego and humility. He humbled himself as a servant (Philippians 2:5-8) and advised his followers in Matthew 23:12, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Just as a tree that grows too tall and unbalanced will fall, a person consumed by pride will ultimately face consequences. In contrast, balanced humility leads to growth, wisdom, and a strong foundation. -/- 7. Work and Rest: The Balance of Productivity and Reflection -/- Even in daily life, Jesus emphasized balance. In Mark 6:31, he tells his disciples, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” While hard work is necessary, continuous labor without rest leads to burnout. Nature follows this rhythm—day and night, seasons of growth and dormancy, activity and rest. Jesus’ teachings encourage this balance, ensuring long-term well-being. -/- Conclusion: Jesus Christ as a Model of Universal Balance -/- The teachings of Jesus Christ are not only spiritual guidelines but also reflections of the universal law of balance in nature. His messages promote equilibrium in relationships, morality, and personal development. By practicing love and forgiveness, embracing reciprocity, balancing justice with mercy, managing material and spiritual needs, combining faith with works, controlling pride, and maintaining a healthy work-rest cycle, individuals align themselves with the natural order of existence. -/- If humanity fully embraced Jesus’ teachings through this lens, society would achieve greater harmony, much like how the natural world thrives when balance is maintained. His wisdom, deeply rooted in the structure of reality, continues to provide a foundation for peace, sustainability, and fulfillment. -/- . (shrink)

We propose that quantum frequencies generate gravitational interactions.

Mental causation, idea that it is us – via our minds – who cause bodily actions is as commonsensical as it is indispensable for our understanding of ourselves as rational agents. Somewhat less uncontroversial, but nonetheless widespread (at least among ordinary people) is the idea that the mind is non-physical, following the intuition that what is physical can neither act nor think nor judge morally. Taken together, and cast into a metaphysical thesis, the two intuitions yield interactive dualism: the view (...) that human persons and their minds are non-physical but can nonetheless interact with their bodies, most notably through their brains. This thesis has two main objectives: first, to defend interactive dualism against objections, and second, to show how it can blend in with a physical world in which laws of nature hold. The first part (chapter 1) consists in a brief motivation of interactive dualism as opposed to non-interactive dualism. I argue that non-interactive, epiphenomenalist dualism sacrifices so many crucial aspects of our human existence that interactive dualism is highly to be preferred to it, barring even stronger counterarguments against the latter. It is those putative counterarguments I address in parts II and III. Part II takes on the philosophical objections from the causal closure of the physical and from causal heterogeneity. The former takes the success of physics and physiology as basis for the doctrine of the causal closure of the physical (CCP). I argue against this that there is not only no convincing argument for CCP, but also that any science-based belief in CCP cannot be epistemically justified. As regards the causal heterogeneity objection, it is ‘weighed and found wanting’, because it relies on unwarranted assumptions about causation. In part III, I examine the objection from energy conservation. It roughly says that if interactive dualism were true, then energy would not be conserved, which physics taught us cannot be the case. My reply is that the underlying conception of energy (and momentum) conservation is wrong-headed and not the one that actual physicists use. Instead of being categorical and global, conservation laws are conditional and local, thereby making natural room for mental interaction. Some dualists, however, have sought to make interactive dualism conservation-friendly, notably by invoking quantum physics; I show that these attempts are unnecessary and create more problems than they solve. Finally, in chapter 9, I turn the tables on non-interactionists by investigating current neurophysiological literature on volitional actions, which, though not addressing the question directly, still encourages the interactive dualist picture more than a non-interactionist one. Part IV is about the interplay between interactive dualism and the laws of nature. The ultimate goal is, if possible, to come up with a theory of the laws of nature that explains the lawlike behavior of nature and at the same time makes room for interaction. I begin by pointing out that the laws of nature are or at least should be what physicalists worry about (chapter 10). I then proceed with a historical survey on the development of the notion of laws of nature (chapter 11) that sheds light on its theistic origin. This is followed by an inquiry into the question how a law of nature could possibly be broken (chapter 12) and a survey of the extant metaphysical theories of the laws of nature with special regard to their receptivity to interaction (chapter 13). Finally, in chapter 14 I develop a theory of the laws of nature both faithful to their divine origin and the possibility of mental interaction: dispositionalist divine decretalism, a synthesis of dispositionalism and Jeffrey Koperski’s divine decretalism. (shrink)

In this paper, I propose a framework that supports both free will and anomalous mind-matter interaction (psychokinesis). I begin by considering the argument by the physicist Sean Carroll that the laws of physics as we understand them rule out psychokinesis (and other modes of psi). I find Carroll’s claims problematic, in part due to what I believe are misunderstandings of arguments borrowed from David Hume. I proceed to consider a more dispositional notion of causality (in contrast to one characterized by (...) universal and necessary laws) which I argue is more hospitable to both psychokinesis and free will. I then incorporate recent work from the philosophy of mind and science to arrive at a framework that supports both real volition and psychokinesis, which I argue are intimately linked. This approach is fundamentally dispositional, but grounded in an ontologically prior field of awareness and potentiality. I also consider that the regularities (or causal natures) we observe in our physical world are ultimately supported by what we might term teleological “intentions” within a nonlocal, mind-like quantum ground. (shrink)

Disability laws are crucial in ensuring a life of dignity for persons with disabilities. However, they remain limited and ineffective in the absence of adequate knowledge and awareness of the experiences with disability. The limitedness of disability laws has been spoken of in cases where the full realization of rights is subject to technological, philosophical, and market dynamics. In many cases, the law is also weakened by negative cultural beliefs and social perceptions of disability. And then there are cases where (...) disability laws perpetuate or tolerate oppression and violence. Despite their limitedness, disability laws offer normative content to facilitate engagement and critique for reform. In terms of what disability laws ‘ought’ to be, scholars write, that they should be about disabled people and the meanings provided by them. This objective has and can be fulfilled with the aid of disability studies that go beyond the inquiries of law with the right kind of research tools to theorize and re-theorize concepts and meanings about disability. Disability studies, in other words, represent the living conditions of disabled persons and the questions of how disability and/or impairment should be defined. This chapter examines the interaction between disability law and disability studies through the prism of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). While discussing the models of disability (medical, social, human rights, and relational-community models) and agendas for reforming the CRPD, the chapter highlights the importance of new concepts and approaches. Further, the potential of disability laws, CRPD in particular, has been discussed keeping in mind the application of its core principles across different sectors (with a special focus on the Marrakesh treaty and copyright laws). (shrink)

States heavily restrict immigration, and many people violate these restrictions. For example, unauthorized immigrants cross borders without official permission, and other actors, such as people smugglers, assist them in doing so. How should we evaluate resistance to immigration law from a moral perspective? In this article, I survey recent work on the ethics of resisting immigration law. In particular, I examine three categories of resistance to immigration law as the following: unauthorized immigration, people smuggling, and citizens' resistance to laws that (...) prohibit them from assisting or interacting with unauthorized immigrants. (shrink)

The Unified Theory of Free Will: The Three Universal Laws, Systemic Imbalance, and Nature’s Self-Correction -/- By Angelito Malicse -/- Introduction -/- For centuries, the concept of free will has been debated, with perspectives ranging from determinism to compatibilism and libertarianism. However, these traditional views fail to acknowledge the natural laws that govern human decision-making. By synthesizing the Universal Law of Balance in Nature, the Universal Feedback Loop Mechanism, and the Error-Free System, we establish a unified theory of free will—a (...) structured approach to human choices within the constraints of natural order. -/- Additionally, it is crucial to recognize the tolerance limits of hierarchical systems—both natural and man-made. When human decisions exceed these limits and imbalances persist, nature will automatically step in to restore equilibrium. This natural correction often manifests in disruptive ways, such as natural disasters, economic collapses, or social upheavals. Understanding these dynamics is essential to ensuring stability across all systems. -/- Furthermore, human emotions, which have evolved as essential survival mechanisms, play a dual role in maintaining or disrupting balance. Emotions influence decision-making, motivation, and social interactions. When properly regulated, they help individuals and societies adapt to challenges and maintain systemic harmony. However, when emotions exceed their tolerance limits—such as excessive fear leading to panic or unchecked anger causing conflict—they contribute to systemic imbalance and dysfunction. -/- The Three Universal Laws and Their Role in Decision-Making -/- 1. Universal Law of Balance in Nature -/- Every system—biological, social, and technological—operates within specific tolerance limits. Decisions that align with natural balance maintain stability, while those that exceed these limits lead to disruption. If humans fail to correct imbalances, nature will forcefully restore equilibrium, often through unpredictable and catastrophic means. -/- Examples of Balance, Systemic Imbalance, and Natural Correction: -/- Personal Health: A balanced diet sustains physical well-being, while excessive consumption leads to obesity and related diseases. If ignored, the body self-corrects through metabolic disorders and immune system responses. -/- Economic Stability: A balanced economy fosters growth, while financial mismanagement leads to economic crashes. Recessions and inflation serve as corrective mechanisms for financial excesses. -/- Environmental Sustainability: Responsible resource management ensures long-term survival, whereas overexploitation leads to climate change and natural disasters such as droughts and hurricanes, which force societies to adapt. -/- Ecosystem Regulation: Overfishing disrupts marine populations, but nature counters with species migration and ecological shifts that eventually restore stability. -/- Energy Consumption: Overuse of fossil fuels accelerates climate change, prompting extreme weather events and necessitating the shift to renewable energy sources. -/- 2. Universal Feedback Loop Mechanism -/- Decision-making must incorporate continuous feedback to ensure adaptation and refinement. Ignoring or distorting feedback results in inefficiencies and systemic collapse. -/- Examples of Feedback, Systemic Imbalance, and Nature’s Response: -/- Business Adaptation: Companies that respond to consumer feedback thrive, while those that ignore it collapse due to declining market relevance. -/- Political Governance: Leaders who suppress public concerns foster unrest, often leading to revolutions or government overhauls. -/- Technological Development: AI systems trained on biased or incomplete data develop flawed decision-making patterns, necessitating retraining and regulation. -/- 3. Error-Free System -/- Every decision has consequences, and ensuring 100 percent correct information is essential to maintaining systemic balance. Errors in data, assumptions, or implementation can trigger unintended disruptions. -/- Examples of Cause and Effect, Misinformation, and Systemic Collapse: -/- Academic Success: Proper study methods enhance learning, while reliance on ineffective strategies results in poor educational outcomes. -/- Industrialization and Environmental Impact: Sustainable practices protect ecosystems, while reliance on false environmental data accelerates degradation. -/- Global Resource Consumption: Inaccurate assessments of resource availability lead to economic and geopolitical instability. -/- The Evolution and Purpose of the Duality of Human Emotions -/- Human emotions have evolved as critical mechanisms for survival, adaptation, and social cohesion. They function as regulatory signals that guide decision-making, helping individuals and societies maintain equilibrium. However, emotions also possess a dual nature, where their misalignment or overexpression can lead to instability and dysfunction. -/- Positive Role of Emotions in Systemic Balance: -/- Empathy and Cooperation: Emotions such as compassion and trust foster social cohesion, strengthening communities and enhancing cooperation. -/- Fear and Caution: A moderate level of fear helps individuals assess risks and avoid dangerous situations, ensuring personal and collective safety. -/- Motivation and Ambition: Positive emotions such as enthusiasm and joy drive personal growth, innovation, and societal progress. -/- Negative Role of Emotions in Systemic Imbalance: -/- Excessive Fear and Panic: When fear surpasses a system’s tolerance limit, it leads to irrational decision-making, paranoia, and social instability. -/- Unchecked Anger and Conflict: Intense anger without regulation contributes to violence, political unrest, and societal fragmentation. -/- Despair and Apathy: Chronic negative emotions, such as depression and hopelessness, reduce individual productivity and can weaken societal resilience. -/- Examples of Emotional Duality in Decision-Making: -/- Public Health Responses: Balanced fear leads to precautionary health measures, while excessive panic results in chaos (e.g., misinformation-fueled reactions during pandemics). -/- Leadership and Governance: A compassionate leader fosters unity, while an authoritarian leader driven by anger and paranoia destabilizes societies. -/- Market Behavior: Optimistic investors drive economic growth, while fear-driven panic selling causes financial crashes. -/- Effects of Systemic Imbalances and Nature’s Automatic Correction -/- When human decisions disrupt equilibrium and corrective actions are not taken, nature enforces balance through forceful interventions. -/- Examples of Human-Induced Imbalances and Nature’s Response: -/- Healthcare Systems: Overuse of antibiotics results in drug-resistant bacteria, increasing disease severity and forcing new medical advancements. -/- Economic Systems: Financial bubbles burst, leading to recessions that correct speculative excesses. -/- Political Systems: Corrupt governance leads to revolutions, shifts in power, and societal restructuring. -/- Environmental Systems: Deforestation causes soil erosion and desertification, forcing human migrations and altering agriculture. -/- Overpopulation: Excessive growth strains resources, leading to food shortages, pandemics, and natural events that regulate population levels. -/- Urban Expansion: Overcrowding leads to declining infrastructure, pollution, and social conflicts, often prompting mass relocations and policy reforms. -/- Conclusion -/- Free will is not an arbitrary concept but a structured system governed by natural laws. By understanding the Universal Law of Balance in Nature, the Universal Feedback Loop Mechanism, and the Error-Free System, we can align human decisions with nature’s equilibrium. -/- Additionally, recognizing the evolution and duality of human emotions is essential for maintaining stability in personal and societal decision-making. If humanity fails to correct imbalances, nature will automatically restore equilibrium, often in ways that are catastrophic and beyond human control. -/- By integrating these principles into education, governance, and AI development, we pave the way for a rational, ethical, and self-correcting society. -/- . (shrink)

The Impossibility of Absolute Free Will: A Natural Law Perspective -/- Introduction -/- The concept of free will has been a subject of philosophical, scientific, and theological debate for centuries. Many people believe that they have the power to make choices independent of external influences, a belief often referred to as “absolute free will.” However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that no decision is made in complete isolation from external and internal constraints. From biological and environmental factors to social (...) and psychological influences, human decision-making is shaped by forces beyond individual control. This essay will argue that absolute free will is impossible because all human choices are bound by natural laws and feedback mechanisms, aligning with the universal law of balance in nature. -/- The Illusion of Absolute Free Will -/- The idea of absolute free will suggests that an individual can make choices without any constraints. However, this is an illusion because every decision is influenced by various factors. Biological needs, such as hunger and thirst, compel us to act in specific ways. Social norms and cultural upbringing shape our values and behaviors. Psychological factors, including past experiences and cognitive biases, further restrict our choices. Even at the neurological level, decisions arise from brain activity governed by physical and chemical processes, limiting the extent to which they can be considered truly “free.” -/- Natural Laws and the Constraints on Free Will -/- One of the strongest arguments against absolute free will is the existence of natural laws that govern all aspects of reality. In physics, for example, objects must obey the laws of motion and gravity. Similarly, in the realm of human decision-making, choices are guided by a universal law of balance in nature. Just as an ecosystem maintains equilibrium through feedback mechanisms, human behavior operates within a dynamic system where internal desires interact with external constraints. This feedback loop ensures that no choice is made in a vacuum—every action has consequences that shape future decisions. -/- The Role of Feedback Mechanisms in Decision-Making -/- The interaction between conscious minds further reinforces the impossibility of absolute free will. Individuals constantly influence each other, creating a network of interdependent decisions. Governments, educational institutions, and economic systems all impose structures that shape individual choices. Even at a personal level, social feedback affects our decision-making, as approval or disapproval from others conditions our behaviors. This interconnected nature of human decisions shows that free will is always relative, never absolute. -/- The Practical Implications of Understanding Free Will -/- Recognizing that absolute free will does not exist has important implications for society. It highlights the need for education that aligns decision-making with the universal law of balance in nature. If people understand that their choices are shaped by natural laws and feedback mechanisms, they can make more informed and responsible decisions. This awareness can also lead to better governance, as leaders can design policies that account for the constraints on human behavior rather than assuming individuals act with unrestricted freedom. -/- Conclusion -/- Absolute free will is an impossibility because all human decisions are bound by natural laws and external influences. Biological, environmental, social, and psychological factors create constraints that shape human choices, making true independence of will unattainable. Instead of striving for an illusion of absolute free will, society should focus on understanding the natural limits of decision-making and using this knowledge to promote balance and harmony. By embracing this perspective, individuals and leaders can work towards a world where human actions align with the universal principles governing existence. -/- . (shrink)

During the current financial crisis, the need for an alternative to a laissez-faire ethics of capitalism (the Milton Friedman view) becomes clear. I argue that we need an order ethics which employs economics as a key theoretical resource and which focuses on institutions for implementing moral norms. -/- I will point to some aspects of order ethics which highlight the importance of rules, e.g. global rules for the financial markets. In this regard, order ethics (“Ordnungsethik”) is the complement of the (...) German conception of “Ordnungspolitik” which also stresses the importance of a regulatory framework. This framework is needed not to tame the market, but to make it more profitable in the long run. -/- The conception of order ethics relies heavily on contractarianism, especially on James Buchanan’s work. Unlike many other conceptions of ethics, it does not start with an aim to achieve, but rather with an account of what the social world – in which ethical norms have to be implemented – is like. Our social world is different from the pre-modern one. Pre-modern societies played zero-sum games in which people could only gain significantly at the expense of others. And the types of ethics that we are still used to today have been developed within these pre-modern societies. -/- Modern societies, by contrast, can be characterised – by economists and other social theorists alike – as societies with continuous growth. This growth has only been made possible by the modern competitive market economy which enables everyone to pursue his own interests within a carefully devised institutional system. In this system, positive sum games are played, which makes it in principle possible to improve the position of every individual at the same time. Most kinds of ethics, however, resulting from the conditions of pre-modern societies, ignore the possibility of win-win-situations and instead require us to be moderate, to share, to sacrifice, as this would have been functional in zero-sum games. These conceptions distinguish – in more or less strict ways – between self-interest and altruistic motivation. Self-interest, more often than not, is ultimately seen as something evil. -/- Such an ethics cannot be functional in modern societies. Ethical concepts lag behind. Within zero-sum games, it was necessary to call for temperance, for moderate profits, or for a condemnation of lending money at interest. Within positive-sum games, however, the morally desired result of a social process cannot be brought about by changes in motivation, by switching from ‘egoistic’ to ‘altruistic’ motivation. The second theoretical element introduced by order ethics is the distinction between actions and rules, which was already mentioned. Traditional ethics concerns actions: It calls directly for changes in behaviour. This is a consequence of pre-modern conditions as reconstructed before: People in the pre-modern world were only able to control their actions, not so much however the conditions of their actions. In particular, rules like laws, constitutions, social structures, the market order, and also ethical norms have remained stable for centuries. In modern societies, this situation has changed entirely. The rules governing our actions have increasingly come under our control. -/- In this situation, ethics has to focus on rules. Morality must be incorporated in incentive-compatible rules. Direct calls for changes in behaviour without changes in the rules lead only to an erosion of compliance with moral norms. Individuals that continue to behave ‘morally’ will be singled out, because the incentives have not been changed. Moral norms which are to be justified cannot require people to abstain from pursuing their own advantage. People abstain from taking ‘immoral’ advantages only if adherence to ethical norms yields greater benefits over the planned sequence of actions than defection in the single case. Thus ‘abstaining’ is not abstaining in the long run, it is rather an investment in expectations of long-term benefits. By adhering to ethical norms, I become a reliable partner for interactions. The norms do indeed constrain my actions, but they simultaneously expand my options in interactions. And people consent to rules only if these rules hold greater advantages for them, at least in the long run. -/- In general, ethics cannot require people to abandon their individual calculation of advantages. However, it may suggest improving one’s calculation, by calculating in the long run rather than in the short run, and by taking into account the interests of our fellows, as we depend on their acceptance for reaching an optimal level of well-being, especially in a globalized world full of interdependence. -/- The problem of implementation can now be placed at the beginning of a conception of order ethics, justified with reference to the conditions of modern societies I have sketched. Under the conditions of pre-modern societies, an ethics of temperance had evolved that posed simultaneously the problems of implementation and justification. The implementation of well-justified norms or standards could then be regarded as unproblematic, because the social structures allowed for a direct face-to-face enforcement of norms. Pre-modern societies not only favored an ethics of temperance, they also had the instrument of face-to-face-sanctions within their smaller and non-anonymous communities. This instrument is no longer functional in modern anonymous societies, and so we have to face up to the problem of implementation right at the start of our ethical conception. Simultaneously, an order ethics relies on the implementation of sanctions for enforcing incentive-compatible rules. In modern societies, rules and institutions, to a large extent, must fulfil the tasks that were, in pre-modern times, fulfilled by moral norms, which in turn were sanctioned by face-to-face sanctions. Norm implementation in modern societies thus works by setting adequate incentives in order to prevent the erosion of moral norms, which would happen if ‘moral’ actors were systematically threatened with exploitation by other, less ‘moral’ actors. -/- This conception of order ethics is then elaborated further in the area of business ethics. -/- . (shrink)

This article calls into question the notion that seventeenth-century authors such as Descartes and Leibniz straightforwardly conceived the mind as something "outside" nature. Descartes indeed did regard matter as distinct from mind, but the question then remains as to whether he equated the natural world, and the world of laws of nature, with the material world. Similarly, Leibniz distinguished a kingdom of final causes (pertaining to souls) and a kingdom of efficient causes (pertaining to bodies and motions), but the question (...) remains as to whether he equated nature with the second kingdom alone, or included both kingdoms within nature. Although Kant sundered Leibniz's envisioned connection between the two kingdoms, even he did not place mind fully outside nature. (shrink)

The aim of this master’s thesis is to analyse and highlight the interaction between science, politics and law. More precisely, our research question concerns the use of scientific arguments in social spheres (notably in politics and law) instead of legal or political arguments. In fact, we want to raise the way in which certain actors invoke scientific arguments to impose "objective" elements of fact in debate and, in this way, refrain from politically and "subjectively" discussing these same elements (or, at (...) least, their social consequences). This Master’s thesis will adopt an interdisciplinary theoretical framework (chapter 1) mobilising philosophy of science, philosophy of law, sociology of law, legal technique and analytical theories. Then, we will apply it to a case study: the European regulation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) after the European Court of Justice (CJEU) ruling of 25 July 2015 (chapter 2). The first chapter will provide theoretical elements to rethink the interaction between science, politics and law. The first section will propose a 'state of the art’ of the philosophical literature on the relationship between science (as a regime of truth) and politics. This master’s thesis will assess a truth under construction rather than a transcendental truth. Section 2 anticipates authoritarian claims based on science by considering the relationship science can have with power (Foucault). A solid review of philosophical, sociological and legal literature highlights the risks of giving decision-making power to an all-powerful science. Notably, the use of science to justify discriminatory policies is emphasised as these policies could not be challenged because, at the time, it was considered an objective scientific truth. Finally, section 3 offers a critique of the narratives of neutral and objective science, through the approach of science in action. This sociological approach presented all the doubts and subjectivity of science in action. The second chapter will propose a case study to illustrate the theoretical framework. We have chosen GMOs because they constitute a hybrid 'event', marked by scientific controversies, and with major socio-economic implications. The legal framework of GMOs in the European Union will be presented in the first section. In addition, the legal status of new breeding techniques (NBTs) will be examined. The second section will analyse the ruling of the European Court of Justice which made NBTs subject to GMO regulation. Finally, the third section will propose a reflection on the philosophy of law on the modes of existence of scientific, legal and political disciplines. (shrink)

An influential position in the philosophy of biology claims that there are no biological laws, since any apparently biological generalization is either too accidental, fact-like or contingent to be named a law, or is simply reducible to physical laws that regulate electrical and chemical interactions taking place between merely physical systems. In the following I will stress a neglected aspect of the debate that emerges directly from the growing importance of mathematical models of biological phenomena. My main aim is (...) to defend, as well as reinforce, the view that there are indeed laws also in biology, and that their difference in stability, contingency or resilience with respect to physical laws is one of degrees, and not of kind . (shrink)

In the Principles of Philosophy, Descartes attempts to explicate the well-known phenomena of varying bodily size through an appeal to the concept of "solidity," a notion that roughly corresponds to our present-day concept of density. Descartes' interest in these issues can be partially traced to the need to define clearly the role of matter in his natural laws, a problem particularly acute for the application of his conservation principle. Specifically, since Descartes insists that a body's "quantity of motion," defined as (...) the product of its "size" and speed, is conserved in all material interactions, it is imperative that he explain how solidity influences the magnitude of this force. As a means of resolving this problem, Descartes postulated an idealized condition of "perfect solidity" which correlates a body's "agitation" force (a forerunner of Newton's concept of non-accelerating, or "inertial" motion) with the interplay of its volume, surface area, and composition of minute particles. This essay explores this often misunderstood aspect of Descartes' physics, as well as the special function of idealized conditions in his collision rules. Contrary to those commentators who regard "perfect solidity" as a stipulation on bodily impact, this notion, it will be argued, is primarily concerned with the internal composition of macroscopic bodies, and only indirectly with their collision characteristics. Along the way, many of Descartes' hypotheses will be shown to display a level of sophistication and intricacy that, despite their essential incompatibility, belie several of the common misconceptions of Cartesian science. (shrink)

Social scientists have paid insufficient attention to the role of law in constituting the economic institutions of capitalism. Part of this neglect emanates from inadequate conceptions of the nature of law itself. Spontaneous conceptions of law and property rights that downplay the role of the state are criticized here, because they typically assume relatively small numbers of agents and underplay the complexity and uncertainty in developed capitalist systems. In developed capitalist economies, law is sustained through interaction between private agents, courts (...) and the legislative apparatus. Law is also a key institution for overcoming contracting uncertainties. It is furthermore a part of the power structure of society, and a major means by which power is exercised. This argument is illustrated by considering institutions such as property and the firm. Complex systems of law have played a crucial role in capitalist development and are also vital for developing economies. (shrink)

Introduction & Objectives: Norwich’s Entropy Theory of Perception (1975 [1] -present) stands alone. It explains many firing-rate behaviors and psychophysical laws from bare theory. To do so, it demands a unique sort of interaction between receptor and brain, one that Norwich never substantiated. Can it now be confirmed, given the accumulation of empirical sensory neuroscience? Background: Norwich conjoined sensation and a mathematical model of communication, Shannon’s Information Theory, as follows: “In the entropic view of sensation, magnitude of sensation is regarded (...) as a measure of the entropy or uncertainty of the stimulus signal” [2]. “To be uncertain about the outcome of an event, one must first be aware of a set of alternative outcomes” [3]. “The entropy-establishing process begins with the generation of a [internal] sensory signal by the stimulus generator. This is followed by receipt of the [external] stimulus by the sensory receptor, transmission of action potentials by the sensory neurons, and finally recapture of the [response to the internal] signal by the generator” [4]. The latter “recapture” differentiates external from internal stimuli. The hypothetical “stimulus generators” are internal emitters, that generate photons in vision, audible sounds in audition (to Norwich, the spontaneous otoacoustic emissions [SOAEs]), “temperatures in excess of local skin temperature” in skin temperature sensation [4], etc. Method (1): Several decades of empirical sensory physiology literature was scrutinized for internal “stimulus generators”. Results (1): Spontaneous photopigment isomerization (“dark light”) does not involve visible light. SOAEs are electromechanical basilar-membrane artefacts that rarely produce audible tones. The skin’s temperature sensors do not raise skin temperature, etc. Method (2): The putative action of the brain-and-sensory-receptor loop was carefully reexamined. Results (2): The sensory receptor allegedly “perceives”, experiences “awareness”, possesses “memory”, and has a “mind”. But those traits describe the whole human. The receptor, thus anthropomorphized, must therefore contain its own perceptual loop, containing a receptor, containing a perceptual loop, etc. Summary & Conclusions: The Entropy Theory demands sensory awareness of alternatives, through an imagined brain-and-sensory-receptor loop containing internal “stimulus generators”. But (1) no internal “stimulus generators” seem to exist and (2) the loop would be the outermost of an infinite nesting of identical loops. (shrink)

Scholars in Central Asia have long started exploring the nexus between law and technology. Contemporary Central Asian legal academia is producing research which stands at the junction of law, philosophy, and technology. Central Asia is comparatively not advanced in technology production and imports most the technologies from neighboring tech giants. These technologies are imported as a package along with the laws and regulations proposed by the technology manufacturing country. It has been observed that these regulations don‘t correlate with the existing (...) local and regional legal systems. To meet these demands, this article proposes a new discipline / branch of legal sciences named as ―Central Asia Tech Law to accommodate the technological progression of the 4th industrial revolution. This branch of law strives to promote globalized legal mechanisms to treat technology as per the demands of the Central Asian region and in line with the international norms and standardization. Another purpose of Central Asia Tech Law is to increase the interaction with regional social and applied scientists to set regional technological standards and preferences for Central Asia. (shrink)

This paper is about why voluntary associations, such as churches, unions and political parties, are subject to natural justice requirements in common law: in other words, why they are required to treat their members fairly. These requirements are typically imposed (under the name of procedural fairness) by public law on exercises of state authority, but voluntary associations do not exercise state authority. Voluntary associations are set up in private law, as structures of property and contract, but property and contract law (...) do not ordinarily require rights to be exercised in accordance with natural justice. What is needed is an account which locates voluntary associations within private law while adverting to what they have in common with the state: that they make and apply rules to facilitate human interaction. I propose such an account, drawing on an idea from Lon Fuller. Natural justice requirements on voluntary associations are grounded in the rule of law. (shrink)

Legal philosophy dates to the Ancient Greek Philosophers, and it continues to be a vigorously debated subject due to the fact that there does not exist a legal philosophy that is beyond reapproach that encapsulates law’s origins or purpose. This paper will introduce a new legal philosophy, which I have termed instinctualism. -/- Instinctualism is the idea that law originates from human instinct. Human beings are born with certain natural capacities that they learn to utilize as they mature. Examples include (...) speaking, walking, associating, and interacting with others, and practicing faith in a divine being, the state, or some other source of inspiration and hope. Human beings don’t think about the potential illegalities of speaking their minds, moving from one place to another, or engaging in conversation with their friends or associates unless they are indoctrinated to do so. Rather, human beings do these things because they have instinctual desires and the knowledge to do so. Other rights and laws such as freedom of the press are the product of peoples’ instinctual rights. For example, as people learn to speak, they instinctually share information and news about their inner circles or communities. If taken a step further, one begins to discuss an organized press. Knowledge and understanding of laws, such as those limiting certain types of speech, i.e., hate speech, must be taught and learned; it is not instinctual. This paper will introduce a subset of the most influential legal philosophies of different eras in human intellectual development, beginning with those of Ancient Greece. It will proceed to describe the shortcomings of those philosophies before introducing instinctualism as an alternative. After defining instinctualism, I will proceed to discuss how it addresses the shortcomings of other legal philosophies. Next, I will introduce rights guaranteed to the citizens of four prominent countries via relevant sources of primary law for each of those countries. Finally, I will close by reviewing the main arguments in the paper and discussing future research that I will undertake to buttress this paper’s arguments. (shrink)

An influential position in the philosophy of biology claims that there are no biological laws, since any apparently biological generalization is either too accidental, fact-like or contingent to be named a law, or is simply reducible to physical laws that regulate electrical and chemical interactions taking place between merely physical systems. In the following I will stress a neglected aspect of the debate that emerges directly from the growing importance of mathematical models of biological phenomena. My main aim is (...) to defend, as well as reinforce, the view that there are indeed laws also in biology, and that their difference in stability, contingency or resilience with respect to physical laws is one of degrees, and not of kind. In order to reach this goal, in the next sections I will advance the following two arguments in favor of the existence of biological laws, both of which are meant to stress the similarity between physical and biological laws. (shrink)

There are at least five ‘core’ notions of community found in Kant's works: 1. The scientific notion of interaction. This concept is introduced in the Third Analogy and developed in the Metaphysical Foundations of Natural Science. 2. A metaphysical idea. The idea of a world of individuals (monads) in interaction. This idea was developed in Kant’s precritical period and can be found in his metaphysics lectures. 3. A moral ideal. The idea of a realm of ends. 4. A political ideal. (...) The idea of a juridical community (or community of communities) governed by juridical laws. 5. A theological ideal. What Kant calls ‘the kingdom of heaven’, and which can be thought of as a community of holy beings, or angels. In this paper I focus on the relationship between the first, second and fourth of these notions. My argument is that Kant’s notion of a juridical community governed by juridical laws is modelled on the metaphysical idea of the world. This metaphysical idea of a world is, in turn, modelled on the category of community introduced in the first Critique and developed in his logic lectures. (shrink)

In the first half, I suggest that Kant’s conception of our moral life goes through a significant shift after 1793, with reverberations in his eschatology. The earlier account, based on the postulate of immortality, describes our moral life as an endless pursuit of the highest good, but all this changes in the later account, and I point out three possible reasons for this change of heart. In the second half, I explore how the considerations Kant brings up to argue for (...) his accounts can inform our process of formulating positions with respect to the afterlife. I argue that, in the absence of a convincing theoretical proof for or against the afterlife as well as apodictically certain knowledge of how demanding the moral law is, the Kantian strategy would be to ask which account of our moral life delivers the kind of contentment that can sustain our moral resolve. I also point out a way theists might be able to find contentment despite their moral failures by imagining God’s moral kenosis. (shrink)

ABSTRACT The individual-community relationship has always been one of the most fundamental topics of social sciences. In sociology, this is known as the micro-macro relationship while in economics it refers to the processes, through which, individual actions lead to macroeconomic phenomena. Based on philosophical discourse and systems theory, many sociologists even use the term "emergence" in their understanding of micro-macro relationship, which refers to collective phenomena that are created by the cooperation of individuals, but cannot be reduced to individual actions. (...) "Emergence" theories attempt to explain the nature of society as a complex system by examining how individuals and their relationships lead to the creation of integrated and macro-social phenomena such as markets, educational systems, cultural beliefs, and shared social practices. As a prelude to activity, every researcher has to answer the question from the methodological point of view, how is it possible to study the behavior of social groups and how can we gain knowledge about the laws related to social groups? Anyone who deals with humanities and social sciences or any reality and phenomenon that affects human beings, inevitably deals with the reality that is emerging. In fact, emergence occurs when one level of reality emerges radically from another level. Examples of emergent levels of reality include how the mind emerges from the body; or the way society emerges from human beings. Therefore, when there is an emerging factor, different scientific disciplines should be used, because it is inevitable to talk about social affairs, psychology and neurobiology, as well as physical and even chemical. -/- INTRODUCTION Since its beginning in the 19th century, sociology has faced the fundamental question of what a social phenomena stands for? At a glance, sociologists deal with the study of social groups, collective behavior, institutions, social structures, social networks, and social dynamics, and ultimately all such phenomena are composed of individuals. Therefore, social phenomena seem to have no independent ontological status, and in this case, sociology is ultimately about reducible individuals. Different approaches about the micro-macro relationship, using the concept of "emergence", argue that although collective phenomena are created by individuals, they cannot be reduced to individual action. The term "emergence" is used to distinguish "emergent results" from " Procedural results". Results are called Procedural that can only be calculated by adding or subtracting the causes that act together. On the contrary, they are emergent outcomes that are qualitatively novel compared to the causes from which they originate. An example of such emergent results is mental characteristics that emerge from neural processes, but are not considered among the characteristics of neural processes of components - which are their origin. Philosophical debates about emergentism and reductionism focus on the mind-brain relationship, but as many philosophers have noted, they can be generalized to apply to any hierarchical set of features. The cognitive revolution reactivated a 19th century controversy between theorists of Identity and dualism. The theorists of Identity believe in reductionist materialism and elimination of metaphysics, according to which the mind is nothing more than the biological, while the dualists believe that the mind and the brain are distinct from each other. Emergence has been considered as a third way between the theories of Identity and dualism. -/- METHODOLOGY Interdisciplinarity Is fundamentally indicated by the dominance of open systems as well as social and emerging systems at different levels. Therefore, as long as we are facing a new emergentism, there will necessarily be different fields and an interdisciplinary method. The commonality of social sciences and cognitive sciences on the issue of emergence provides the possibility of interaction and exchange of concepts between these two for deeper research. Therefore, in this research, apart from the concepts of Subvenience and downward causation, we have used multiple realization and wildly disjunctive, which are used to explain the emerging concept in cognitive sciences, including neurobiology, psychology, and philosophy. For analytical and interdisciplinary approaches, after examining the concepts of subvenience, and wildly disjunctive, Individualistic and collectivist emergentism have been reviewed. And then their adequacy is criticized and evaluated in meeting strong emergence conditions. -/- FINDINGS Philosophers of the mind have been able to define the conditions of irreducibility and downward causation, which are essential for strong emergence, by using the principle of subvenience with the help of multiple realization and wildly disjunctive principles. Therefore, by definition, emergentist individualism suffers from the problem of how to explain downward causality and irreducibility, and emergentist collectivism faces the challenge of reification. The analysis of the challenges facing the two methodological approaches of individualism and collectivism leads us to three unresolved issues about the emerging phenomenon, which are realism, downward causality, and mechanism. Despite the differences in the stances of these two approaches regarding the aforementioned triple problems, individualists and collectivists both agree that some social characteristics are reducible; and some others are irreducible due to their complexity, the determination of which, depends on the case study of the mechanism of emergence of each social characteristic. -/- CONCLUSION An emergence that is consistent with reductionism is called a weak emergence. And strong emergence includes the principle of irreducibility and downward causality. According to strong emergence, the characteristics of social phenomena have downward causal power, which cannot be reduced to the causal forces. The principle of subvenience, together with multiple realization and wildly disjunctive, can provide the conditions of irreducibility and downward causality, which are essential conditions of strong emergence. Based on the philosophical analysis of two methodological approaches, individualist and collectivist, it can be concluded that emergentist individualism suffers from the problem of how to explain downward causality and irreducibility, and reification collectivism faces the challenge of reification. The analysis of the problems faced by these two approaches leads us to three unresolved issues, which are realism, downward causality, and mechanism. individualist emergentists acknowledge the existence of emergent social characteristics, but despite this, they believe that these characteristics are not real but merely analytical constructs that require explanation based on individuals and their mutual actions. But collectivists argue that emergentism yields a categorical ontology and supports social realism. They accept the dependence of social characteristics on individuals, but claim that social entities and structures are ontologically independent. Individualists and collectivists both agree that some social characteristics are reducible; and others are irreducible due to their complexity; and the only way to recognize this is to engage in empirical studies of the mechanisms and temporal processes of "emergence" that create social characteristics. -/- NOVELTY The newness of this compact article is as follows: a) Presenting an interdisciplinary approach using the analysis of philosophy of cognitive sciences, including the philosophy of mind, neurobiology and psychology to formulate the issue of social emergence; b) Criticizing individualist and collectivist methodological approaches to the issue of social emergence and explaining the sufficiency and shortcomings of both in providing weak and strong emerging conditions; c) Explaining and categorizing the challenges facing methodological approaches in explaining the phenomenon of social emergence, in three categories: realism, downward causality, and mechanism. BIBLIOGRAPHY Beckermann, A., Flohr, H., & Kim, J. (eds.) (1992). Emergence or reduction? Essays on the prospects of nonreductive physicalism. Berlin: Walter de Gruyter. Bhaskar, R. (1979). The possibility of Naturalism. New York: Routledge. Bhaskar, R., Danermark, B. & Price, L. (2018). Interdisciplinarity and wellbeing: A critical realist general theory of interdisciplinarity. London and New York: Routledge. Blau, P.M. (1981). Introduction: diverse views of social structure and their common denominator. In Blau, P.M. & Merton, R.K. (eds.), Continuity in Structural Inquiry (pp. 1–23). Beverly Hills: Sage. Blau, P.M. (1987). Microprocess and macrostructure. In K.S. Cook (ed.), Social Exchange Theory (pp. 83–100). Newbury Park, CA: Sage. Brooks, R.A., & Maes, P. (eds). (1994). Artificial life IV; proceedings of the Fourth International Workshop on the Synthesis and Simulation of Living Systems. Cambridge, Mass: MIT Press. Clark, A. (1997). Being there: Putting brain, body, and world together again. Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press. Coleman, J. S. (1987). Microfoundations and macrosocial behavior. In: J. C. Alexander, B. Giesen, R. Munch, & Neil J. Smelser (Eds.). The Micro-Macro Link (pp. 153–73). Berkeley: University of California. Coleman, J. S. (1990). Foundations of social theory. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. Elster, J. (1985). Making sense of Marx. New York: Cambridge University Press. Fodor, J.A. (1974). Special sciences (Or: The disunity of science as a working hypothesis). Synthese, 28(2), 97–115. Fodor, J.A. (1989). Making mind matter more. Philosophical Topics, 17, 59-79. Giddens, A. (1984). The constitution of society: Outline of the theory of structuration. Berkeley: University of California Press. Hempel, C.G. (1965). Aspects of scientific explanation and other essays in the philosophy of science. New York: The Free Press. Horgan, T. (1993). From supervenience to superdupervenience: meeting the demands of a material world. Mind, 102, 555-586. Humphreys, P. (1997). How properties emerge”. Philosophy of Science, 64, 1-17. Kim, J. (1999). Making sense of emergence. Philosophical Studies, 95, 3–36. Kincaid, H. (1997). Individualism and the unity of science. New York: Rowman & Littlefield. Lewis, D.K. (1986). The plurality of worlds. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Nigel, G., & Conte, R. (eds.) (1995). Artificial societies; The computer simulation of social life. London: UCL Press. O’Connor, T. (1994). Emergent properties. American Philosophical Quarterly, 31, 91-104. Popper, K.R. (1968). Conjectures and refutations: The Growth of Scientific Knowledge. New York: Harper & Row. Sawyer, R. K. (2001). Emergence in sociology: contemporary philosophy of mind and some implications for sociological theory. American Journal of Sociology, 107, 551-585. Sawyer, R. K. (2004). The mechanisms of emergence. Philosophy of the Social Sciences, 34, 260–282. Sawyer, R. K. (2005). Social emergence: societies as complex systems. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Sawyer, R.K. (2003). Nonreductive individualism: Part 2, Social causation. Philosophy of the Social Sciences, 33, 203–224. Winch, P. (1993). The idea of a social science and its relation to philosophy‭ (SAMT, Trans.). Tehran, Iran: SAMT. (shrink)

The Responsibility of Freedom of Speech and the Role of Media in Propagating Correct Knowledge -/- In modern societies, freedom of speech is often heralded as a fundamental right, allowing individuals to express their thoughts and opinions freely. However, the concept of absolute freedom of speech is not without its flaws. When viewed through the lens of natural laws, including the universal law of balance, the unchecked exercise of speech can lead to societal imbalances. It is essential to recognize that (...) while individuals should be allowed to voice their opinions, this freedom comes with the responsibility to ensure that speech contributes positively to societal harmony, personal growth, and the well-being of others. This responsibility extends beyond individual action and applies to all forms of media, which play a significant role in shaping public discourse and the flow of information. -/- The Concept of Freedom of Speech and its Pitfalls -/- Freedom of speech, in its ideal form, allows individuals to express their ideas and beliefs without fear of censorship or retribution. This principle is grounded in the belief that diverse viewpoints contribute to the flourishing of democratic societies. However, the unrestricted nature of this freedom can also lead to unintended consequences. When individuals or groups disseminate harmful misinformation, spread hate speech, or manipulate public sentiment for selfish gain, the foundational balance within society is disrupted. The unchecked expression of falsehoods or inflammatory rhetoric can create divisions, incite violence, or foster ignorance—outcomes that are contrary to the well-being of individuals and the harmony of society. -/- The spreading of false beliefs, misinformation, or gossip can be especially damaging. Such behavior not only distorts reality but also erodes trust within communities, making it more difficult for people to distinguish between truth and falsehood. False beliefs can lead to irrational fears, biases, or hatred, and when spread, they contribute to the further fragmentation of societies. In the age of digital media, these harmful narratives can quickly go viral, reaching vast audiences before they can be corrected, amplifying their negative impact. -/- From the perspective of the universal law of balance, the free exchange of ideas must be aligned with the greater good, ensuring that speech contributes to constructive discourse and societal progress. Words are powerful, and their impact on both the individual and collective mind can shape reality in profound ways. Therefore, freedom of speech should not be seen as an absolute right devoid of responsibility. Rather, it must be accompanied by an awareness of its potential effects and a commitment to using it to foster understanding, unity, and truth. -/- The Role of Media In Shaping Knowledge -/- Media, whether traditional or digital, plays a central role in how information is disseminated to the public. In today’s interconnected world, media outlets, including news organizations, social media platforms, and content creators, have an unprecedented influence on shaping public opinion. Given this influence, media must be held to high standards of responsibility, as it is the primary vehicle through which society consumes knowledge. -/- The responsibility of the media extends beyond merely reporting facts; it includes the duty to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and relevance of the information shared. Media outlets must prioritize the dissemination of truth, fact-check their sources, and avoid sensationalism that can distort public perception. Misinformation, especially when propagated through powerful media channels, can have lasting consequences on public trust, societal stability, and personal decision-making. The rapid spread of gossip, rumors, or fake news can lead to unnecessary panic, conflict, or even harm, demonstrating the real dangers of unchecked speech. -/- In the age of information overload, the role of the media is to sift through the noise and present knowledge in a balanced, accessible, and responsible manner. This involves not only reporting on events but also offering analysis and context that help the public understand the deeper implications of the information being shared. Media must act as a filter, ensuring that the knowledge people receive aligns with reality, helps individuals make informed decisions, and contributes to the greater good. -/- The Need for Media Literacy and Accountability -/- As media consumers, individuals must also take responsibility for their engagement with information. Media literacy—the ability to critically analyze, evaluate, and interpret media content—is a crucial skill in today’s world. With the proliferation of social media platforms, where misinformation can spread rapidly, it is more important than ever for individuals to be discerning about the sources of information they trust. Education systems worldwide must prioritize media literacy as part of their curricula, teaching students how to identify credible sources, distinguish between fact and opinion, and recognize the potential for manipulation in media messages. -/- For the youth, empowering them to critically engage with media is especially vital. With the rise of social media and peer-to-peer communication, young people are particularly susceptible to the influence of misinformation and gossip. The spread of rumors or false information among peer groups can have serious social consequences, including damaged reputations, broken friendships, and even bullying. It is essential to foster a sense of personal responsibility in the youth by teaching them the importance of verifying information before sharing it and the harmful effects of spreading unverified or negative content. -/- Youth should be empowered to practice empathy and discernment when interacting with information. Schools, families, and communities can collaborate to teach the younger generation about the consequences of gossip and misinformation—how they can harm individuals, societies, and even themselves. Encouraging open dialogue about the ethical use of information and the value of truth can help instill the importance of responsible speech in the youth. By creating a culture that values truth over sensationalism and empathy over gossip, we can work toward a more informed and balanced society. -/- At the same time, media organizations must be held accountable for the content they produce and share. This accountability requires strong ethical guidelines and transparency, ensuring that media outlets prioritize public welfare over profits or political agendas. The role of media is not merely to entertain or persuade but to educate, inform, and serve as a reliable source of knowledge. Failure to adhere to these responsibilities can lead to misinformation, polarization, and the erosion of public trust. -/- The Importance of Legal Laws in Preventing the Spread of False Information -/- While personal responsibility and media literacy are essential, legal frameworks also play a crucial role in curbing the spread of false information. In the Philippines, laws like the Cyber Libel Law (Republic Act No. 10175) serve as vital tools for combating online defamation, false information, and harmful content. This law holds individuals accountable for spreading libelous statements or malicious rumors online, providing a legal recourse for those affected by misinformation. -/- Such legal measures are important because they act as deterrents, encouraging individuals and organizations to think carefully before sharing content that could harm others or society at large. Legal laws like the Cyber Libel Law help ensure that the digital space is not misused for malicious purposes, such as spreading false beliefs, gossip, or misinformation that can cause public harm. These laws serve to protect individuals’ reputations and prevent the viral spread of content that could lead to social unrest or personal injury. -/- Furthermore, legal frameworks can also push media outlets and digital platforms to take more proactive measures in monitoring and controlling the spread of misinformation. By enforcing penalties for the dissemination of harmful content, governments can encourage media organizations and platforms to adopt stricter content policies and invest in fact-checking mechanisms. Legal safeguards not only protect individuals but also promote accountability, ensuring that those responsible for the creation and dissemination of false information are held liable. -/- While freedom of speech is crucial, the presence of legal frameworks ensures that this right is not abused to the detriment of others. These laws help strike a balance between protecting the right to express opinions and maintaining societal harmony by preventing the spread of falsehoods and malicious gossip. -/- The Balance Between Freedom of Speech and Responsibility -/- In light of the universal law of balance, freedom of speech must be exercised with a sense of duty. The right to express oneself must not come at the expense of societal harmony or the well-being of others. Media, as a conduit for knowledge and discourse, must prioritize accuracy, accountability, and ethical standards in its operations. This includes ensuring that the information they share is balanced, relevant, and rooted in truth. -/- At the same time, it is important to recognize that all individuals, including media practitioners, are part of a larger system. Every word spoken, every article written, and every broadcast made contributes to the collective reality we all experience. The impact of these actions ripples out into society, influencing minds, shaping behaviors, and creating a feedback loop that can either strengthen or weaken the fabric of society. By embracing responsibility in speech and media practices, we can help ensure that our collective decisions align with the natural balance of the world around us, fostering a society that values truth, understanding, and mutual respect. -/- Conclusion -/- The concept of freedom of speech, while important, cannot be viewed as a blanket entitlement devoid of responsibility. The power of speech, when unchecked, can disrupt the natural balance of society, leading to harm, division, and ignorance. Media, as a central vehicle for disseminating knowledge, holds a critical responsibility in ensuring that the information shared is accurate, reliable, and serves the greater good. In this context, freedom of speech should be understood as a tool for fostering truth and unity, not as an unregulated license to mislead or divide. -/- Legal frameworks, such as the Cyber Libel Law, provide essential safeguards, holding individuals accountable for the harm caused by false information. By aligning speech and media practices with the principles of balance, responsibility, and truth, society can move toward a more informed, harmonious, and just future. Moreover, empowering the youth to become responsible consumers and sharers of information is essential in cultivating a generation that values truth, empathy, and ethical communication, ultimately promoting a balanced and well-informed society. -/- . (shrink)

One of the most serious challenges (if not the most serious challenge) for interactive psycho-physical dualism (henceforth interactive dualism or ID) is the so-called ‘interaction problem’. It has two facets, one of which this article focuses on, namely the apparent tension between interactions of non-physical minds in the physical world and physical laws of nature. One family of approaches to alleviate or even dissolve this tension is based on a collapse solution (‘consciousness collapse/CC) of the measurement problem in quantum (...) mechanics (QM). The idea is that the mind brings about the collapse of a superposed wave function onto one of its eigenstates. Thus, it is claimed, can the mind change the course of things without violating any law figuring in physical theory. I will first show that this hope is premature because energy and momentum are probably not conserved in collapse processes, and that even if this can be dealt with, the violations are either severe or produce further ontological problems. Second, I point out several conceptual difficulties for interactionist CC. I will also present solutions for those problems, but it will become clear that those solutions come at a high cost. Third, I shall briefly list some empirical problems which make life even harder for interactionist CC. I conclude with remarks about why no- collapse interpretations of QM don’t help either and what the present study has shown is the real issue for ID: namely to find a plausible integrative view of dualistic mental causation and laws of nature. (shrink)

Various philosophers have long since been attracted to the doctrine that future contingent propositions systematically fail to be true—what is sometimes called the doctrine of the open future. However, open futurists have always struggled to articulate how their view interacts with standard principles of classical logic—most notably, with the Law of Excluded Middle. For consider the following two claims: Trump will be impeached tomorrow; Trump will not be impeached tomorrow. According to the kind of open futurist at issue, both of (...) these claims may well fail to be true. According to many, however, the disjunction of these claims can be represented as p ∨ ~p—that is, as an instance of LEM. In this essay, however, I wish to defend the view that the disjunction these claims cannot be represented as an instance of p ∨ ~p. And this is for the following reason: the latter claim is not, in fact, the strict negation of the former. More particularly, there is an important semantic distinction between the strict negation of the first claim [~] and the latter claim. However, the viability of this approach has been denied by Thomason, and more recently by MacFarlane and Cariani and Santorio, the latter of whom call the denial of the given semantic distinction “scopelessness”. According to these authors, that is, will is “scopeless” with respect to negation; whereas there is perhaps a syntactic distinction between ‘~Will p’ and ‘Will ~p’, there is no corresponding semantic distinction. And if this is so, the approach in question fails. In this paper, then, I criticize the claim that will is “scopeless” with respect to negation. I argue that will is a so-called “neg-raising” predicate—and that, in this light, we can see that the requisite scope distinctions aren’t missing, but are simply being masked. The result: a under-appreciated solution to the problem of future contingents that sees and as contraries, not contradictories. (shrink)

Lots of things are usefully modelled in science as dynamical systems: growing populations, flocking birds, engineering apparatus, cognitive agents, distant galaxies, Turing machines, neural networks. We argue that relevant logic is ideal for reasoning about dynamical systems, including interactions with the system through perturbations. Thus, dynamical systems provide a new applied interpretation of the abstract Routley-Meyer semantics for relevant logic: the worlds in the model are the states of the system, while the (in)famous ternary relation is a combination of (...) perturbation and evolution in the system. Conversely, the logic of the relevant conditional provides sound and complete laws of dynamical systems. (shrink)