Science Of Freedom Workbook
Text: "The Philosophy of Freedom" by Rudolf Steiner
Topic 3.6 Chapter 3 Thinking As The Instrument Of Knowledge
3.6 Pure Thinking
Naturalism
[17] This transparent clarity of the thought process is completely independent of our knowledge of the physiological basis of thought. I am speaking here of thought when we make our own mental activity the object of observation. For this purpose I am not concerned with how one physical process in my brain causes or influences another while I carry out a thought operation. What I observe in studying a thought process is not what process in my brain connects the concept lightning with the concept thunder. I observe my reason for bringing these two concepts into a certain relationship. Introspection shows that in linking thought with thought I am guided by the content of my thoughts. I am not guided by physical processes in the brain.
Theism
In a less materialistic age this remark would of course be entirely unnecessary. But today—when there are people who believe that once we know what matter is, we will know how matter thinks—it is necessary to point out that we can discuss thinking without entering the field of brain physiology. Most people find it difficult to grasp the concept of pure thinking. Anyone who counters the idea of thinking I have developed here with the assertion of Cabanis' that "the brain secretes thoughts as the liver does gall or the salivary ducts saliva . . .", simply does not know what I am talking about. Such a person is trying to find thought in the brain by the normal method of observation, in the same way we approach other objects in the world. But, as I have shown, thought cannot be found in this way because it eludes normal observation.
Intuitionism
Whoever is unable to enter the exceptional state I have described cannot transcend Materialism and become conscious of what in all other mental activity remains unconscious. If someone lacks the willingness to look at thinking from this position, then one can no more discuss thought with him than one can discuss color with someone born blind. But he should certainly not imagine that we consider physiological processes to be thinking. He fails to explain thinking because he simply does not see it.
Worldview Of Rationalism
Rational decisions and thoughts are based on reason rather than on emotion. Rational thinking is the use of reason to make sense of things, and establish and verify facts.
"accepts that ideas are active in the world."
"grants validity only to those ideas that he discovers outside himself—not to any ideas that he might grasp from his inner self by some sort of intuition or inspiration, but only to those he reads from external things that are real to the senses."
Rudolf Steiner, Human And Cosmic Thought lectures
In Steiner's view of Rationalism, the external world and its sensory realities serve as the starting point for forming ideas. Topic 3.6 Pure Thinking elucidates the concept of pure thinking, a key aspect of Rationalism. Here's how each quote reflects this worldview:
"What I observe in studying a thought process is not what process in my brain connects the concept lightning with the concept thunder. I observe my reason for bringing these two concepts into a certain relationship. Introspection shows that in linking thought with thought I am guided by the content of my thoughts. I am not guided by physical processes in the brain."
Rationalism acknowledges the importance of external, sensory experiences. The ideas or concepts that we form about the world, such as thunder and lightning, are initially triggered by our sensory perceptions of these phenomena. This aligns with the rationalist view that our understanding of the world begins with sensory experiences. In other words, the external world, which is "real to the senses," provides the foundational experiences from which our thoughts and concepts emerge.
Rational thought transcends the sensory experience (the sound of thunder and the sight of lightning) to understand the causal relationship between these phenomena. Rational thinking is concerned with the content and logical structure of thoughts themselves, not with the physical or biological basis of thought. It requires an introspective process to examine the rationale and logical relationships between ideas.
"In a less materialistic age this remark would of course be entirely unnecessary. But today it is necessary to point out that we can discuss thinking without entering the field of brain physiology. Most people find it difficult to grasp the concept of pure thinking."
The second quote addresses the challenge of understanding pure thinking in a materialistic age. Pure thinking, as discussed here, is abstracted from physiological processes. This aligns with Rationalism's assertion that thinking and reasoning are processes distinct from physical matter. The idea is that thought transcends material existence, and understanding thinking requires a focus on the logical and abstract dimensions of thought, not on its physical correlates.
"Whoever is unable to enter the exceptional state I have described cannot transcend Materialism and become conscious of what in all other mental activity remains unconscious. If someone lacks the willingness to look at thinking from this position, then one can no more discuss thought with him than one can discuss color with someone born blind."
The third quote highlights the necessity of entering an 'exceptional state' of introspection to transcend Materialism and become conscious of the nature of thought. This state allows for an examination of thinking itself, separate from the physical world. Our rational ideas are shaped by our cognitive faculties, which interpret, analyze, and give meaning to sensory data. This quote asserts that those who cannot engage in this introspective examination of thought are limited to a materialistic understanding and cannot fully grasp the nature of thought.
These quotes articulate key aspects of Rationalism by emphasizing the role of reason and introspection in understanding thinking. They suggest that to truly understand thought, one must engage in a process of rational analysis and reflection that is independent of physical or sensory experience. This approach underlines the distinct nature of thinking as a logical, content-driven process, separate from material or physiological conditions.
MODULE 3.6 Pure Thinking
□ STEP 3.6 From physiological basis of thought, to pure thinking guided by the content of my thoughts.
1. INTRODUCTION
In Module 3.6 Pure Thinking, the concept of pure thinking emerges as a significant departure from the view that thought is merely a physiological process. When thought is seen purely as a result of brain physiology, it confines our understanding of the cognitive process. This materialistic perspective suggests that our decisions, emotions, and insights are nothing more than the byproducts of biological functions. It's a viewpoint that, while acknowledging the physical aspect of thought, overlooks the expansive terrain of human consciousness.
Pure thinking, as envisioned in this module, elevates the discussion. Here, thought is not tethered to the brain's physical processes but is guided by the logic, reason, and intentionality inherent within the thoughts themselves. It's a form of focused thinking where individuals navigate through concepts and abstract reasoning in a self-directed manner. This approach acknowledges the complexity and multi-dimensionality of human thought, affirming that our mental processes are not dictated by biological factors.
The implications of moving from a materialistic view of thought to embracing pure thinking are profound and far-reaching. It reinforces the concept of free will, asserting that human beings are capable of independent and rational decision-making. It provides a more nuanced approach to mental health, recognizing the interplay of psychological factors. Furthermore, it supports the idea of ethical responsibility, countering deterministic views that reduce human actions to neurological outputs.
This module invites us to engage deeply with our thought processes, to recognize the power of pure reason, and to appreciate the broader dimensions of human cognition. It's a call to transcend the physical confines of thought and to explore the vast landscape of the mind that shapes our understanding of the world and ourselves.
Physiological Based Thought: This refers to thought that is influenced by physical processes within the brain, thoughts considered to be the outcomes of neurological activities and biochemical reactions.
Pure Thinking: Pure thinking is the process of engaging with thoughts introspectively, independent of the brain's physical functions. It emphasizes the clarity and autonomy of pure reason, guided by the content and internal logic of the thoughts themselves.
Focused Thinking
Focused thinking plays a pivotal role in pure thinking. Pure reason delves into the realm of ideas, logic, and abstract thinking. This requires a significant degree of concentration and mental discipline. For example, consider the process of solving a complex mathematical problem. To engage with the problem, a mathematician must employ focused thinking to concentrate on the abstract concepts and relationships between numbers and formulas. This focused attention allows them to explore patterns, relationships, and principles.
In philosophical inquiry or ethical reasoning, focused thinking enables an individual to engage with concepts such as freedom, morality, or existence at a level that transcends physical explanations. A philosopher doesn't rely on the brain's physical properties to understand these concepts but instead uses focused thinking to explore the ideas' inherent logic and interconnections.
Focused thinking allows individuals to explore ideas, relationships, and abstract principles in their pure form. This deep engagement is what constitutes pure reason – a journey into the world of ideas governed by their internal logic and coherence, rather than the physical mechanics of thought production.
2. LIFE EXAMPLES
Scenario: Reflective Philosopher
Stage 1 - Physiological Based Thought: A philosopher, grappling with complex ethical theories, finds their thinking increasingly foggy due to prolonged hours of mental exertion. Recognizing the impact of fatigue on their cognitive abilities, they decide to take a brief nap to refresh their mind.
Stage 2 - Pure Thinking: Refreshed, the philosopher rises to the realm of universal concepts and pure reason. They engage with the clarity of ideas at the conceptual level. In this state of pure thinking, they explore ethical theories and metaphysical concepts, finding new depth and insight not hindered by physical constraints, demonstrating the autonomy and power of pure reason.
Scenario: Recreational Drugs
Stage 1 - Physiologically Influenced Thought: A student starts to notice a decline in academic performance after marijuana use. The use of marijuana leads to slowed neuronal activity in the hippocampus, impacting their ability to concentrate, pay attention, and retain information during classes and study sessions.
Stage 2 - Pure Thinking: After becoming aware of the negative impact on their thinking capacities, the student decides to stop using marijuana. After for a period of 28 days, they experience a full return of cognitive abilities, allowing them to engage more deeply and effectively with their academic work. They regain the concentration required to engage in pure thinking, entering a stream of pure thought. The clarity and autonomy of pure reason become evident as their performance improves markedly.
Scenario: Artist's Block
Stage 1 - Physiologically Influenced Thought: An artist struggling with creative block feels their ideas are stifled, not realizing their stress and anxiety are influencing their thought processes. The stress hormones in their brain are affecting their ability to think freely and creatively, leading to frustration and a lack of inspiration.
Stage 2 - Pure Thinking: After recognizing the impact of their physiological state on their thoughts, the artist decides to do a relaxation exercise, focusing on calming their mind and body. After relaxing, they experience a state of mental clarity. In this state, they're able to think purely about their art, independent of any stress or anxiety. Ideas flow naturally as they conceptualize a new piece, guided solely by the internal coherence and content of their artistic vision. The stress-induced block is replaced by a clear, autonomous creative process.
Scenario: Aging Scholar
Stage 1 - Physiologically Influenced Thought: An aging scholar notices that age-related cognitive changes are affecting their ability to engage in complex scholarly work. They struggle with memory lapses and decreased concentration, hindering their deep engagement with academic texts.
Stage 2 - Pure Thinking: Recognizing these challenges, the scholar decides to narrow their focus, concentrating on specific topics instead of wide-ranging subjects. They begin to engage in targeted, introspective thinking, delving deeply into selected areas of interest. This focused approach allows them to bypass the broader cognitive challenges and still harness the clarity of pure reason by narrowing the topic, demonstrating that despite physiological limitations, they can still engage in high-level, conceptually rich academic work.
Scenario: Decision-Maker
Stage 1 - Physiologically Influenced Thought: A person facing a major life decision is influenced by hunger, leading to impulsive and less rational thinking. Their physiological state, marked by low blood sugar, affects their cognitive functions, skewing their decision-making process.
Stage 2 - Pure Thinking: After eating and restoring their physiological balance, they revisit the decision. This time, they're able to think with clarity. They weigh their options through introspection, guided by reason and the merits of each choice. Their decision-making process becomes more thoughtful, demonstrating the autonomy and clarity achievable in pure thinking.
Scenario: Nighttime Thinker
Stage 1 - Physiologically Influenced Thought: A person lying awake at night finds their thoughts racing uncontrollably. This hyperactive mental state, influenced by the physiological condition of sleep deprivation, leads to chaotic and unproductive thinking.
Stage 2 - Pure Thinking: They decide to practice deep breathing to calm their mind. As their physiological state stabilizes, they achieve a state of tranquility. In this serene state, they revisit their thoughts with newfound clarity. Now, their thinking is guided by the content and logic of the thoughts themselves. This pure thinking allows them to address their concerns in a reasoned and clear manner.
3. THE PHILOSOPHY OF FREEDOM TOPIC 3.6 QUOTE
"Anyone who counters the idea of thinking I have developed here with the assertion of Cabanis' that 'the brain secretes thoughts as the liver does gall or the salivary ducts saliva . . .', simply does not know what I am talking about."
In quote addresses a materialistic perspective on thought, exemplified by the 18th-century French physiologist Pierre Jean Georges Cabanis. Cabanis famously compared the brain's production of thoughts to the liver secreting bile or the salivary glands producing saliva. This analogy suggests that thoughts are merely physical secretions of the brain, akin to any other bodily function, simplifying thinking to a mere physical process, neglecting its abstract, conceptual nature.
The process of physical thought production involves intricate neural networks and biochemical reactions in the brain. Neurons communicate through synapses, transmitting signals via neurotransmitters. The complexity of physical brain processes defy clear understanding of how it results in a specific thought-process.
To illustrate this, consider the act of contemplating a concept like courage. While neuroscientific tools can observe the brain regions activated during this contemplation, they cannot capture the essence of 'courage' as an idea. The concept of courage involves abstract reasoning, moral understanding, and societal context that transcend simple neural activity.
When a poet creates a metaphor, the brain's physical processes facilitate this creation, but the meaning, beauty, and emotional resonance of the metaphor cannot be reduced to these processes. The metaphor's value lies in its conceptual and aesthetic content, which is born from, but not confined to, the brain's physiological workings.
On the other hand, physiological processes in the brain can significantly influence thinking in various ways. Here are some key aspects:
1. Neurotransmitter Levels: Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that transmit signals across synapses from one neuron to another. Different neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are associated with different aspects of thinking and mood. For example, dopamine is linked to motivation and reward-based learning, while serotonin influences mood and social behavior.
2. Hormonal Changes: Hormones like cortisol (related to stress) and oxytocin (related to social bonding) can affect how we think and process information. High levels of cortisol, for instance, may impair memory and increase anxiety, altering our cognitive processes.
3. Brain Structure and Connectivity: The physical structure of the brain, including the size and connectivity of various regions, influences cognitive functions. For example, the prefrontal cortex is crucial for decision-making and impulse control, and its development and connections with other brain regions play a significant role in how these processes unfold.
4. Neural Plasticity: The brain's ability to change and adapt (known as neuroplasticity) affects learning and memory. Experiences, learning activities, and even thoughts can lead to changes in neural connections, influencing how we think and react in the future.
5. Sleep and Circadian Rhythms: Sleep and circadian rhythms greatly impact cognitive functions like memory consolidation, attention, and problem-solving. Lack of sleep or disrupted sleep patterns can lead to impaired cognitive abilities.
6. Nutrition and Metabolism: The brain's energy supply, affected by overall nutrition and metabolism, plays a role in cognitive functions. For example, glucose metabolism in the brain is crucial for sustaining cognitive activities.
7. Brain Injuries and Disorders: Traumatic brain injuries, neurodegenerative diseases (like Alzheimer's), and other neurological disorders can profoundly affect thinking, memory, problem-solving abilities, and emotional regulation.
8. Age-Related Changes: As the brain ages, there can be a decline in certain cognitive functions, like processing speed and memory. However, other aspects, like knowledge accumulated over time, may remain robust or even improve.
"Introspection shows that in linking thought with thought I am guided by the content of my thoughts. I am not guided by physical processes in the brain."
Linking thought with thought, guided only by the content of the thoughts themselves, is a critical aspect of Steiner's concept of pure thinking. It involves the engagement of the mind in a way that is governed solely by the intrinsic qualities and logical relationships inherent within the thoughts, without external influence or internal physical brain processes dictating the direction of thinking.
In this process, two thoughts are linked based on their conceptual coherence and logical compatibility. This linkage is not arbitrary or influenced by external factors like sensory data or emotional states, but is instead determined by the rational and conceptual nature of the thoughts themselves.
Here are specific examples to illustrate how this linking of thoughts occurs:
1. Logical Deduction: In mathematics, a thought about a particular mathematical principle can be linked with another thought about a related theorem. For instance, understanding the concept of a right triangle (first thought) naturally leads to applying the Pythagorean theorem (second thought) to calculate the lengths of sides. The connection between these two thoughts is not random but based on the inherent logical relationship between the concepts of right triangles and the theorem.
2. Cause and Effect in History: In historical analysis, understanding the social and economic conditions of a particular era (first thought) can lead to comprehending the reasons behind a significant historical event like a revolution (second thought). The linkage between these thoughts is guided by a logical understanding of how certain conditions can lead to specific outcomes.
3. Ethical Reasoning: In moral philosophy, linking the concept of personal freedom (first thought) with a free society (second thought) arises from understanding that personal freedom is enhanced in a society that values and protects the freedom of all its members. The connection is formed by recognizing that individual and societal freedoms are interdependent.
4. Scientific Hypothesis Formation: In science, observing a natural phenomenon (first thought) leads to the formulation of a hypothesis (second thought) about its underlying causes. For example, observing that plants grow towards light (first thought) leads to hypothesizing about phototropism (second thought) – the orientation of a plant in response to light.
5. Artistic Interpretation: In art, an initial thought about the emotional tone of a piece (first thought) can lead to a deeper understanding of the artist's intended message (second thought). The connection is based on the interpretive analysis of the artwork's elements and how they convey broader themes.
In each of these examples, the process of linking one thought with another is driven by the content and inherent logic of the thoughts themselves. This process of pure thinking allows for a deep, rational understanding of various phenomena, free from the constraints of external influences and internal physical processes.
This approach can be called 'pure thinking' or 'pure reason' because it transcends the materialistic view that thoughts are merely the outcomes of brain chemistry or physical processes. Instead, it emphasizes the autonomy and clarity of thought, driven by its own inherent logic and content.
The value of this kind of thinking lies in its capacity to offer a deeper, more authentic understanding of not just the world but also one’s own cognitive processes. It fosters self-awareness and enables individuals to comprehend and connect ideas based on their intrinsic merit and rational coherence. This is critical in areas where complex problem-solving and creative thinking are required.
For example, in scientific research, an introspective approach to thinking allows scientists to formulate hypotheses not just based on observed data, but by logically connecting various concepts and theories. In the field of ethics, it aids in discerning moral principles through a process of rational deliberation rather than just emotional or instinctual responses. In everyday life, this kind of thinking helps individuals make decisions that are not impulsively driven by external pressures or internal states but are instead the result of careful, reasoned consideration of the facts and ideas at hand.
The quote underscores the importance of recognizing the independence and purity of our cognitive processes, highlighting the need to engage with thoughts in a way that honors their inherent structure and content.
4. REFLECTION QUESTIONS FOR THE PRACTICE OF PURE THINKING
Objective: Experience the joy of soaring into the realm of concepts.
In TPOF introduction it says this path requires having the sincere willingness to "withdraw oneself awhile from the immediate impressions of life and enter the realm of pure thought." Why is it necessary to regularly practice pure thinking? How does pure thinking bring personal growth and contribute to meaningfully discussions and decisions? How can entering into pure thinking help you through an emotional situation? How does the concept of pure thinking relate to free thinking? Does understanding pure thinking influence your view of free will and individual agency?
5. THE WEIGHT OF REASON
In the heart of a sprawling metropolis stood a towering structure of steel and glass, the sanctuary of legal minds, among whom John Avery reigned supreme. Renowned for his formidable intellect, John's razor-sharp reasoning and unmatched eloquence had long been the linchpin of his prestigious law firm. His arguments in court were not mere presentations but symphonies of pure thinking, each note meticulously placed, each phrase resonating with clarity and purpose.
Yet, in the shadows of his success, stress lurked like an unseen adversary. To cope, John turned to food – not the nourishing kind, but quick fixes of sugar-laden snacks and greasy fast food. These unhealthy choices, high in calories and low in nutrients, became a habitual response to stress. Each sugary treat, each fried delicacy, provided a momentary dopamine rush, a fleeting shield against the relentless pressure of his upcoming case.
This new habit ushered in a gradual yet profound change. John's once-sharp and swift thoughts began to ebb, hampered by the physiological effects of his diet. Excessive sugar intake led to erratic blood sugar levels, causing bouts of hyperactivity followed by crashes in energy and focus. The high fat content of his meals contributed to increased inflammation in the body, affecting brain function and impairing cognitive abilities. The once sharp and swift currents of his thoughts began to ebb, replaced by a muddled stream of consciousness. Where words once flowed, there was now a dam of confusion. The intricate legal theories and statutes that had been at his command seemed distant, obscured by a fog that settled over his mind.
In the solitude of his expansive office, surrounded by legal tomes and case files, the reality of his situation dawned on him. The fast-food wrappers littering his desk were not just remnants of meals but symbols of his cognitive decline. He attempted to focus on the case at hand, but his thoughts were like elusive shadows, slipping away just beyond his grasp.
His mind, once a fortress of logic, now felt like a labyrinth with no exit. The weight of the decision pressed down on him – to step aside and admit his failing faculties or to press forward, risking the fate of an innocent man for the sake of his pride. The burden of choice was his alone to bear – a choice between the ethical obligation to his client and the unyielding grip of his own ego.
John sat alone. He reflected on a time when his mind, a bastion of pure reason, could navigate the complexities of his personal and ethical decisions. His thinking was once a well-tuned instrument of clarity and confidence, discerning the right path with a certainty that felt almost innate.
In those days, his decisions were made with a calm assurance. He understood the principles at play, weighed them against each other, and arrived at conclusions that resonated with his sense of truth and justice. His thought process was a dance of reason and ethics, each step meticulously placed, leading to outcomes that he not only stood by professionally but also embraced personally.
But now, as he sat amidst the shadows of his own making, that once unshakeable foundation of thought was shaken. The disciplined process of pure reasoning, which had guided him through both legal complexities and moral quandaries, was muddled. The clarity that once illuminated his path had dimmed, leaving him in a twilight of indecision and doubt. Here he was, struggling to make a decision that once would have been clear. The physiological consequences of his recent indulgences had veiled his judgment, muffling the once resolute voice of his intellectual and ethical conscience.
6. PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF LINKING THOUGHTS
Objective: Adopt an individualistic attitude aligned with principles of freedom.
- Reflect on Universal Concepts: Select a specific concept, such as fairness, freedom, or love. Spend time reflecting on this concept, and its relation to other concepts, remaining in the realm of universals.
- Examining Thought Links: Place two thoughts side by side for reflection. Focus on what links these two thoughts. Is this link imaginary, based on logical reasoning, inherent in the thoughts, personal experience, cultural beliefs, or an emotional response?
- Paragraph Analysis for Thought Linkages: Choose a paragraph from any article, essay, or book that interests you. Identify the main thoughts or concepts presented. Examine how the author connects these thoughts, looking for logical transitions, cause-and-effect relationships, comparisons, descriptions, contrasts, or examples that link these thoughts.
7. CLOSING THOUGHTS
In Module 3.6 Pure Thinking, we examined the transformation of thought from being influenced by physiological processes and the materialistic view of thought as a brain-based activity, to embracing pure, universal conceptual thinking, which is selflessly devoted to universals in thought. This kind of thinking is found in disciplines such as mathematics, philosophy, and science, when the focus is on universal principles and laws.
A universal concept is an idea or principle that applies broadly and is not limited to specific instances or situations. It transcends particular experiences, representing a general truth or principle. For example, in mathematics, the concept of a triangle is universal; it applies to all triangles, irrespective of their specific dimensions or types. In contrast, thinking in particulars involves focusing on specific instances or examples, like a particular triangle drawn on a blackboard, which does not represent the broader concept of triangularity.
Pure, universal conceptual thinking, guided by the content of thought, offers numerous advantages. It empowers individuals with enhanced problem-solving skills, enabling them to approach complex issues with a logical, structured mindset. This type of thinking is crucial in mathematics and science, where abstract concepts and universal principles are used to solve intricate problems and develop innovative solutions. Scientists and mathematicians who think in universals can see beyond the immediate data or specific experiments to the broader principles and theories that govern their fields. This ability drives innovation and technological progress, as it leads to the discovery of new concepts and the development of groundbreaking theories.
Philosophy, too, benefits immensely from pure conceptual thinking. Philosophers engage with universal questions about existence, ethics, and knowledge, offering deeper insights into the human condition. This kind of thinking enables them to explore profound ethical dilemmas and existential questions, contributing to the richness of human intellectual and cultural life.
As society faces increasingly complex and global challenges, the ability to think in universals becomes even more critical. Individuals who can engage in pure thinking are better prepared to understand and address these multifaceted issues, leading to more effective solutions. Whether it's grasping the laws of Nature, cultivating free thinking, or advocating for a free society, thinking in universals allows for a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of various phenomena.
This journey signifies a shift towards a more profound, rational, and universal understanding of the world, benefiting both individuals and society as a whole.
