Learning from Nature: Solving the mysteries of human behaviour and consciousness

by Joe Griffin, Ivan Tyrrell

“If you are searching for a fundamental principle, observe Nature!” said Plato. He taught that answers to the practical and moral questions that arise in life are found by contemplating the nature of reality as displayed in the natural world – the aim being to find the archetypal forms behind temporal phenomena. He believed that the pattern that arises in the mind of anyone who sincerely does that will reveal what is necessary for discovering the laws of nature and how to live in tune with them. If this was right then, it follows that it is equally right now.

This book, 'Learning from Nature', by Joe Griffin and Ivan Tyrrell, offers guidance about the knowledge needed for humanity to avert catastrophe.

81 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 11, 2013

Reviews

[✵ Kas · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is very much an essay full of personal opinions and hypotheses of the authors, some parts an accurate reflection of society and other parts wildly creative.

I enjoyed the first half which discussed how society and humans have drifted too far from our natural roots, and how we only need to look to nature to understand what our fundamental needs are. I found the discussion of the effect of modern politics on our mental health very poignant.

‘activities of large institutions can impact on the lives of individuals and families by imposing innumerable inappropriate rules and regulations on them in an attempt to legislate for every eventuality.’

The second half of the book delves into the authors ideas about consciousness, and whilst being incredibly well thought out and rather thought-provoking, this section also lost my interest rather a lot. The authors invent the ‘relaton’ particle which they believe explains consciousness and the link between all living things. As they quite rightly say, you really have to keep open-minded to think about the case they are making!