Changing the Paradigm: a Theory of Human Development Based on the Emergence of Nonduality

The following work critiques one of the oldest of human problems, that of duality. It proposes that duality is actually a paradigm of thinking. Then it shows that the source of duality is a mistaken perception about the human developmental process, one stemming from human individuation. This is shown by a comparative study of the origin of duality, East and West, and is followed by an analysis of the conception of "love" as an example of dualistic thinking. Next I demonstrate that there are two forms of nonduality --progressive nonduality and regressive nonduality (or monism) --and that they are not the same thing. I then propose that (progressive) nonduality is a paradigm shift. Nonduality is explored as a way of mind-body attunement, and, subsequently, is required for individual growth, societal success, and even moral commitment.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts in English

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

English

Year

1995

Author dc:creator

• Cook, David A.

Contributors dc:contributor

• James Baumlin

• English Language and Literature

Statement dc:rights

• © David A Cook

Repository record dc:identifier

https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/228

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:bearworks.missouristate.edu:theses-1229