Neil Theise is a professor of pathology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Through his scientific research, he has been a pioneer of adult stem cell plasticity and the anatomy of the human interstitium. Dr. Theise’s studies in complexity theory have led to interdisciplinary collaborations in fields such as integrative medicine, consciousness studies, and science-religion dialogue. He is a senior Zen student at the Village Zendo in NYC. His life long Jewish practice has involved both traditional observances and formal academic study. In recent years, (to his surprise) he has also undergone shamanic initiation.
Books:
General Audience:
Notes on Complexity: A Scientific Theory of Connection, Consciousness, and Being
Of academic interest:
Awakening: Exploring Spirituality, Emergent Creativity, and Reconciliation
Transforming: Applying Spirituality, Emergent Creativity, and Reconciliation
Website: neiltheiseofficial.com
Discussion of this interview in the BatGap Community Facebook Group
Summary and transcript of this interview.
Interview recorded March 9, 2024
Video and audio below. Audio also available as a Podcast.
YouTube Video Chapters:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Buddha at the Gas Pump
00:04:25 - Complexity Theory and the study of life
00:08:34 - Dynamic Healing of the GI Tract
00:12:40 - Artificial Life and Complexity Theory
00:17:26 - Awakening through the Koan "Mu"
00:22:41 - The Fascinating Idea of Biocentrism and Organizing Complexity
00:25:45 - Discovering Complexity Theory
00:28:37 - The Illusion of Materiality and the Nature of Pure Awareness
00:33:37 - The Non-dual Fundamental Awareness
00:37:38 - Complementarity in Quantum Physics and Beyond
00:42:36 - The Quantum Field of the Body
00:46:29 - Direct experiences of quantum level reality
00:49:14 - The True Nature of Conscious Reality
00:53:25 - The Illusion of Reality
00:56:56 - The Mechanism of Human Consciousness
01:01:23 - Challenging Empirical Science and Promissory Materialism
01:04:51 - The Intimacy of Subject and Object in Quantum Science
01:08:53 - The Limitations of Mathematics and Empirical Science
01:13:30 - Gödel and Turing's Implications for Mystical Exploration and Consciousness
01:17:33 - Shifting Paradigms and the Nature of Consciousness
01:21:20 - Self-Organization and Complexity in the Universe
01:24:44 - Negative and Positive Feedback Loops
01:29:02 - The Adjacent Possibles and Creativity
01:32:16 - The Subtle Dimensions of Living Beings and the Universe
01:35:26 - Language Limitations and Perspective
01:39:02 - Awakening through Traumatic Experiences
01:42:35 - Wondering about Luck and the Beloved Name
01:45:28 - The Universe's Construction and Spiritual Practices
01:48:30 - The Divine Feminine and Unconditional Love
01:52:57 - The Nature of Reality and True Compassion
01:55:56 - Conclusion
