Pour télécharger cet article (format .pdf) en Français cliquez ici.
To download this article in English (.pdf format) click here.

A new renaissance for humanity, is way beyond intelligence and involves higher consciousness.

What is the goal of this article?

The aim of this article is to illuminate the significance of elevated consciousness in fostering a joyous humanity and shaping the future of life.

The media and news consistently steer our attention toward the less favourable facets of human nature and the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. 

Nevertheless, it is imperative to acknowledge that the essence of humanity transcends mere intelligence.

Media pushes our attention toward the less favourable aspects of human nature and the advancements in artificial intelligence. However, it’s crucial to recognize that human essence extends far beyond mere intelligence.

We encompass the richness of consciousness, the depth of our emotions, the intricacies of our senses, the vessel that is our body, and the ethereal nature of our soul. 

Understanding the entirety of our being is pivotal in crafting a future where humanity thrives in happiness and fulfilment.

Content of this article

Why Doutti?

Years ago, I founded Doutti to encapsulate the diverse range of roles I undertake:

• Legal practitioner
• Mediator
• Consultant specialising in innovation and digitalisation
• Life, entrepreneur, and leadership coach.

At the core of our endeavours lie the guiding principles of freedom, creativity, and compassion.

Within the realm of Doutti, our commitment is to perceive the entirety even when zooming in on specific components. 

Our approach is grounded in creativity, with a focus on generating added value for the collective well-being of ourselves and others.

We consider ourselves visionaries due to our holistic perspective, which transcends the mere mental constructs to encompass the entirety of our being. While we navigate the known with enthusiasm, we also eagerly embrace the unknown, acknowledging that therein lies untapped potential and possibilities.

What happened to humanity?

We find ourselves excessively dominated by our “intelligence”, creating an imbalance with other aspects of our being. 

The pervasive influence of negativity, pessimism, and unhappiness often casts a shadow over our lives, perpetuated by media narratives.

This realisation prompts the consideration that humanity is in need of a profound renaissance. 

Beyond mere intelligence, a new renaissance beckons—one intertwined with higher consciousness.

In my pursuit of escape from this mental grip, I turned off my TV for years and disconnected from Western society, immersing myself in the rural areas of Africa. 

Returning to Belgium after eight transformative years, the TV was reintroduced briefly and swiftly dismissed. 

This prompts a fundamental question: How can we maintain happiness in a world seemingly overrun by discord and unbalance? 

Despite our inclination to seek external reasons or venture beyond our comfort zones, the root often lies within our own mental state.

After years devoted to the study and contemplation of peace and happiness, I am convinced that the world necessitates a renaissance—a renaissance that transcends the boundaries of the classical era. While the traditional renaissance centered on human intelligence and creativity, the new renaissance must adopt a more expansive approach.

This revitalisation is not solely rooted in intelligence and creativity, as witnessed in the classical renaissance. It demands an emphasis on higher consciousness—an all-encompassing perspective that recognizes the interconnectedness of the whole, where the entirety exceeds the sum of its parts.

The new renaissance, therefore, seeks to integrate not only human intelligence but also accentuates higher consciousness, embracing the entirety of life and all beings.

Intelligence

Intelligence refers to the cognitive abilities and intellectual capacities of humans. It encompasses reasoning, problem-solving, creativity, and other cognitive processes that have allowed humans to develop technology, advance scientific knowledge, and create art and culture.

However, we argue that human intelligence alone is insufficient to address the challenges and problems we currently face.

Higher consciousness

Higher consciousness refers to an expanded awareness and understanding of reality beyond the limits of individual human intelligence. It suggests an elevated state of consciousness that transcends the individual self and connects with a broader sense of interconnectedness with all life forms. Higher consciousness embraces diversity as the richness of life while intelligence embraces differences.

This expanded consciousness involves a deep recognition of the interdependence and interrelatedness of all beings and the recognition of their inherent value and worth.

Higher consciousness is an attitude that can lead to sustainable solutions to the problems we face.

It implies that by cultivating a sense of higher consciousness, individuals and society as a whole can develop a more holistic and sustainable approach to addressing global challenges. This broader perspective may lead to greater empathy, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards the well-being of all beings and the planet.

The concept of the new renaissance suggests a shift in focus from human-centric concerns to a more inclusive and interconnected worldview. 

It recognizes that human intelligence, while valuable, must be complemented by a deeper awareness and understanding of our place within the broader web of life. By embracing higher consciousness, it is believed that we can foster a more harmonious and sustainable relationship with ourselves, each other, and the natural world.

Higher consciousness refers to an expanded state of awareness beyond ordinary everyday consciousness. It often involves a heightened sense of self-awareness, interconnectedness, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. 

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is acknowledging and accepting one’s thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. It is often cultivated through meditation and has been associated with various benefits for mental well-being. 

We consider mindfulness not necessarily as a focus but as the state of being aware of the state of our own mind. So our mind is not in control of our being but our consciousness. So not: “je pense donc je suis”, but in a much broader sense of being than thinking alone.

Too much focus means control by the mind and can be the opposite of mindfulness and becomes mind”full”ness.

The connection with renaissance.

When examining the Renaissance, a period in European history from the 14th to the 17th century, we find a significant emphasis on humanism and the exploration of human potential. During this time, there was a renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy, art, and literature. This interest in the classical world led to a reevaluation of human consciousness and the individual’s place in the world.

The Renaissance humanists sought to cultivate knowledge, reason, and individuality, focusing on the potential of human beings to achieve greatness in various fields.

The idea of self-discovery and personal growth became central to Renaissance thought, as individuals sought to expand their understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

The next step: higher consciousness, beyond human intelligence.

The concept of higher consciousness extends beyond human intelligence and encompasses a broader understanding of being and life itself. It involves recognizing and appreciating the interconnectedness of all living beings and the inherent value and potential within them, being part of a universal energy.

Higher consciousness often involves a shift in perspective, where an individual transcends the limited identification with their individual self and recognizes their connection to the larger web of life. It goes beyond intellectual intelligence and encompasses a deep sense of empathy, compassion, and reverence for all forms of life. This expanded state of awareness acknowledges the inherent worth and interconnectedness of not just humans, but all living beings, the natural world and the universe.

In this state of higher consciousness, individuals may experience a profound sense of unity with the diversity of life. They recognize that the well-being and flourishing of all beings are interconnected and that their actions have consequences that ripple through the interconnected web of life. This understanding often leads to a sense of responsibility and a desire to act in ways that promote harmony, sustainability, and the well-being of all.

Furthermore, the concept of higher consciousness acknowledges that human beings are more than just their intellectual capabilities. It recognizes the depth and richness of human experience, including emotions, intuition, creativity, and spiritual dimensions. It encompasses the recognition that there are aspects of existence that go beyond rational understanding and that can be explored through practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and self-inquiry.

In summary, higher consciousness encompasses an expanded awareness that goes beyond human intelligence alone. It involves recognizing the interconnectedness of all life and appreciating the diversity and potential of not only humanity but also the entire spectrum of living beings. It encompasses a holistic understanding of being and life, acknowledging the depth and richness of human experience beyond intellectual capacities alone.

Higher consciousness of the existential value of the diversity of nature.

Higher consciousness has a profound impact on an individual’s relationship with the natural world. When individuals expand their awareness and develop a deeper sense of connection and interdependence with all forms of life, it often leads to a shift in attitude and behaviour towards the natural world. Here are some ways in which higher consciousness can impact an individual’s relationship with nature:

1. Increased reverence and appreciation. 

Higher consciousness often brings about a deep appreciation and reverence for the natural world. Individuals recognize the inherent value and beauty of the environment, seeing it as more than just a resource for human exploitation. They develop a sense of wonder for the intricate interconnectedness and wisdom present in nature.

2. Environmental stewardship 

With an expanded awareness of interconnectedness, individuals with higher consciousness tend to develop a sense of responsibility towards the natural world. They become conscious of the impact of their actions on the environment and strive to act as responsible stewards. This may involve adopting sustainable practices, supporting conservation efforts, and promoting ecological balance.

3. Deepened connection and oneness

Higher consciousness fosters a sense of connection and oneness with nature. Individuals perceive themselves as an integral part of the web of life, rather than separate from it. This connection may lead to a desire to spend more time in nature, engaging in activities like hiking, gardening, or simply being in natural surroundings, which can further deepen their bond with the natural world.

4. Ecological awareness and mindfulness

Higher consciousness often heightens an individual’s sensitivity and awareness of the ecological systems at play in nature. They may develop a deeper understanding of the delicate balance and interdependence of ecosystems and the impact of human activities. This awareness can lead to more mindful choices in daily life, such as reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting sustainable practices.

5. Advocacy and activism

Individuals with higher consciousness may become advocates for environmental causes and engage in activism to protect the natural world. They may raise awareness about environmental issues, support conservation organisations, and work towards bringing about positive change in policies that affect the environment. Their expanded consciousness fuels their commitment to protect and preserve the Earth for future generations.

In summary, higher consciousness can transform an individual’s relationship with the natural world, fostering deep reverence, environmental stewardship, a sense of connection and oneness, ecological awareness, mindfulness, and a commitment to advocacy. It promotes a shift from viewing nature as a separate entity to recognizing our inherent interdependence and responsibility towards the environment.

What are our obstacles of higher consciousness?

While the development of higher consciousness towards the natural world can be transformative, individuals may encounter various challenges and obstacles along the way. Here are some potential challenges:

1. Cultural and societal conditioning

Individuals may face resistance from cultural and societal norms that prioritise human-centric perspectives and exploitation of natural resources. Prevailing attitudes that prioritise economic growth and consumerism over environmental concerns can make it challenging to shift towards a higher consciousness that values the natural world.

2. Disconnecting from nature

In modern urbanised societies, many people have become disconnected from nature due to limited access, busy lifestyles, or a lack of exposure. This disconnection can hinder the development of a deep relationship with the natural world. Overcoming this obstacle may require intentional efforts to reconnect, such as spending time in nature, learning about ecosystems, or participating in environmental activities.

3. Overwhelming scale of environmental problems

The magnitude of environmental challenges, such as climate change, deforestation, and species extinction, can be overwhelming. Individuals may feel powerless or discouraged in the face of these issues, which might hinder their motivation to develop higher consciousness and take action. Breaking these challenges down into smaller, actionable steps can help individuals feel empowered and make a meaningful difference.

4. Internal resistance and inertia

Personal resistance or inertia can arise when attempting to change deeply ingrained habits, beliefs, and lifestyles. Developing higher consciousness requires self-reflection, letting go of ego-driven desires, and embracing new perspectives. This process may be challenging and uncomfortable, as it involves confronting one’s own conditioning and questioning long-held beliefs.

5. Lack of support and community

Developing higher consciousness is often facilitated by supportive environments and communities. Lack of access to such support networks can make the journey more difficult. Finding like-minded individuals, joining environmental organisations, or seeking out communities focused on sustainability can help individuals overcome feelings of isolation and find encouragement.

6. Balancing personal and environmental needs

Individuals may struggle with finding a balance between their personal needs and their commitment to environmental well-being. Achieving a sustainable lifestyle can involve making choices and sacrifices that may conflict with convenience, comfort, or societal expectations. It may require ongoing self-reflection and conscious decision-making to align personal actions with values related to higher consciousness and the natural world.

Despite these challenges, it is important to remember that the development of higher consciousness towards the natural world is a journey that evolves over time. By recognising and addressing these obstacles, individuals can work towards overcoming them and continue on a path of personal growth, environmental stewardship, and interconnectedness with the natural world.

Intelligence as a barrier to higher consciousness

It is possible for intelligence and knowledge to sometimes create barriers that hinder higher consciousness and compassionate behaviour. There are a few reasons why this can occur:

1. Ego-centricity

Intelligence alone does not guarantee a developed sense of empathy or compassion. In some cases, individuals with high intelligence may become overly focused on their own intellectual achievements or superiority, leading to a sense of ego-centricity. This self-centeredness can prevent them from recognizing the interconnectedness and interdependence of all beings and limit their capacity for empathy and compassion.

2. Reductionism and analytical thinking

Intelligence often emphasises analytical thinking and the ability to break complex phenomena into smaller, more understandable parts. While this approach is valuable in many domains, it can lead to reductionism when applied to human experiences and the natural world. Reductionism can limit one’s ability to see the bigger picture, appreciate the complexity of interconnected systems, and understand the holistic nature of consciousness and compassion.

3. Cognitive biases and fixed beliefs

Highly intelligent individuals, like anyone else, can be susceptible to cognitive biases and fixed beliefs. These biases can narrow their perspectives and prevent them from considering alternative viewpoints or embracing new ideas. If their intelligence is not coupled with an open-mindedness and a willingness to question their own assumptions, it can impede the development of higher consciousness and compassion.

4. Lack of emotional intelligence and compassion

Intelligence often pertains to cognitive abilities, while emotional intelligence encompasses the capacity to understand and manage emotions, as well as empathise with others. A high level of intellectual intelligence does not necessarily correlate with emotional intelligence. Without emotional intelligence, individuals may struggle to connect with others on an empathetic level, hindering the development of compassion and higher consciousness.

Compassion goes further than empathy because it englobes not only the understanding of the needs of the other person but also the genuine desire to help the other person.

5. Misalignment of values and priorities

Intelligence can be used to pursue various objectives, and those objectives may not always align with compassion or higher consciousness. Individuals may prioritise personal success, achievement, or material gain over the well-being of others or the interconnectedness of life. This misalignment of values and priorities can prevent the development of higher consciousness, as it does not prioritise wisdom, happiness, and the universal law of interdependence.

However, it is important to note that intelligence and higher consciousness are not mutually exclusive. Many intelligent individuals do develop higher consciousness, wisdom, and compassion. The key lies in integrating intelligence with other qualities such as empathy, open-mindedness, humility, and emotional intelligence. 

By recognizing the limitations of intelligence alone and actively cultivating these complementary qualities, individuals can transcend the potential barriers and embrace a more holistic and compassionate worldview.

What are tools to develop higher consciousness?

There are specific practices and exercises that can help individuals overcome the barriers created by intelligence and cultivate higher consciousness and compassion. 

1. Mindfulness and meditation

Mindfulness and meditation practices can help individuals develop self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and a deeper connection with their own thoughts, emotions, and the present moment. These practices can cultivate empathy, compassion, and a sense of interconnectedness by shifting the focus from analytical thinking to experiential awareness.

2. Cultivating empathy and perspective-taking

Engaging in exercises that promote empathy and perspective-taking can help break down the barriers created by intelligence. This can involve actively imagining oneself in another person’s situation, listening deeply to others’ perspectives, and seeking to understand their experiences and emotions. Such practices foster a more compassionate and open-minded approach to others.

3. Reflective journaling

Regularly engaging in reflective journaling allows individuals to explore their own thoughts, beliefs, biases, and emotions. By examining their own cognitive patterns and biases, individuals can become more aware of the limitations of their intelligence and open themselves up to new perspectives and ideas.

4. Engaging in diverse experiences

Actively seeking out diverse experiences, cultures, and perspectives 

Engaging in diverse experiences: Actively seeking out diverse experiences, cultures, and perspectives can broaden one’s understanding of the world and challenge preconceived notions. This can involve travelling, engaging in dialogue with people from different backgrounds, reading diverse literature, or participating in cultural events. Exposing oneself to different viewpoints and experiences helps in expanding one’s intellectual and emotional horizons.

5. Engaging with nature

Immersing oneself in nature and developing a deeper connection with the natural world can be transformative. Spending time in natural environments, observing and appreciating the beauty and complexity of ecosystems, and recognizing one’s interdependence with nature can awaken a sense of awe, reverence, and ecological consciousness.

6. Cultivating gratitude and kindness

Practising gratitude and acts of kindness can shift the focus from self-centeredness to a broader perspective that includes the well-being of others. Expressing gratitude for the interconnectedness of all beings and actively engaging in acts of kindness and service foster compassion and higher consciousness.

7. Seeking wisdom from various sources

Intelligence is often focused on acquiring knowledge, but seeking wisdom involves integrating that knowledge into a holistic understanding of life. Engaging with wisdom traditions, philosophical teachings, and spiritual practices can provide insights and perspectives that go beyond the limitations of intelligence alone.

These practices and exercises are not exhaustive, but they provide a starting point for individuals seeking to overcome the barriers created by intelligence and develop higher consciousness and compassion. It is essential to approach these practices with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge one’s own assumptions and beliefs.

The spiritual in addition to the cognitive

In addition to our cognitive capabilities, humans have long recognized and explored their spiritual capabilities, which extend beyond mere intelligence. While intelligence primarily deals with logical reasoning, problem-solving, and acquiring knowledge, spiritual capabilities encompass a broader range of experiences and aspects of human existence.

Spirituality refers to the search for meaning, purpose, and connection with something larger than oneself. It involves exploring questions about the nature of reality, the purpose of life, and the existence of a transcendent or divine realm. Spiritual experiences often involve a sense of awe, wonder, and a deep connection to the sacred or the numinous.

Spiritual capabilities can manifest in various ways

1. Transcendent experiences

People may have experiences that go beyond the ordinary boundaries of time, space, and individual identity. These experiences can include feelings of unity, oneness, or a sense of merging with something greater than oneself.

2. Intuition and insight

Spiritual capabilities can involve accessing insights and knowledge that go beyond rational thinking or intellectual analysis. Intuition, gut feelings, and inner wisdom can guide decision-making and problem-solving processes.

3. Compassion and empathy

Spiritual development often nurtures qualities such as compassion, empathy, and kindness. It involves recognizing the inherent worth and interconnectedness of all beings and extending care and support to others.

4. Moral and ethical values

Spirituality often involves the exploration of ethical principles and moral values that guide behaviour and decision-making. Spiritual beliefs and practices can shape one’s sense of right and wrong, justice, and the importance of living a virtuous life.

5. Purpose and meaning

Spiritual capabilities are closely tied to questions of purpose and meaning in life. Exploring one’s spirituality can involve seeking a deeper understanding of one’s place in the world, one’s calling or vocation, and the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling existence.

It is important to note that spirituality can take various forms and be influenced by different philosophical, religious, or cultural frameworks. It is a deeply personal and subjective aspect of human experience, and individuals may have diverse interpretations and expressions of their spiritual capabilities.

While intelligence primarily deals with cognitive abilities, spiritual capabilities encompass the emotional, intuitive, moral, and existential dimensions of human life. Recognizing and nurturing these spiritual capabilities can contribute to a more holistic and integrated approach to personal growth, well-being, and the search for meaning and purpose in life.

For the well-being of all living beings. Love and Enjoy Life!

Stephan DOUKHOPELNIKOFF

Doutti.com
Master your mind,
master your skills