The more we learn about our own nature, the more it seems possible to face and overcome the challenges of our times. New research is taking us past Darwin. Apparently survival of the fittest is not the only principle of evolution. Cooperation is at least as important, if not more so. And we are not just products of random collisions of atoms and molecules. We have will, we can choose.
The key to evolving complexity, for both ant colonies and human society, depends more on collaboration than competition according to Dr. Martin A. Novak in his book SuperCooperators. Combining evolutional biology with game theory, he makes a convincing argument that we can do much more than we’ve been led to believe in the past. Nice guys don’t always finish last.
Taking it a few steps further—into to the realm of quantum physics—Dr. Henry P. Stapp demonstrates how mental intentions get translated into action in his book Quantum Theory and Free Will. He explains how quantum mechanics is non-materialistic, and that “our mental aspects enter into the evolution of matter in ways not reducible to the effect of matter alone.” Thus, by probing deeply into our nature, we may find our spirit.
Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom. - Bahá’u’lláh
Publication
You Make Math: A math book for people who hate math (forthcoming)
This book tells the story of a young boy named Toby who hates math. Through a surprise encounter with Zero, a product of his own mind, he discovers where math comes from and what it really means. Zero teaches Toby and his friends that math arises from our own minds. As Toby learns how he makes math, he gains confidence in doing math.