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" Exploring aspects of a forgotten knowledge: A first-hand, experiential investigation into trans-rational knowing "
Debra J. Mater
J. Gozawa
Document Type
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Latin Dissertation
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Language of Document
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English
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Record Number
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52717
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Doc. No
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TL22671
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Call number
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3357480
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Main Entry
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Debra J. Mater
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Title & Author
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Exploring aspects of a forgotten knowledge: A first-hand, experiential investigation into trans-rational knowing\ Debra J. Mater
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College
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California Institute of Integral Studies
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Date
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2009
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Degree
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Ph.D.
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student score
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2009
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Page No
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357
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Abstract
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In modern times, the premises of Western science have become almost the global standard for knowing. It is a model that emphasizes gathering empirical data from the phenomenal, the outer world, and interpreting it through rational, deductive processes. These premises negate the sacred, inner ways of knowing sustained by mystics and traditional practices for millennia. But scholars from diverse fields are now calling for a more encompassing epistemological approach. This study employs a variation of heuristic inquiry, a receptive method, to explore what lies beyond the epistemological threshold of prevailing Western science. It takes specific interest in the inner domain of knowing, a direct, immediate knowing that I propose is our innate human legacy, but has been forgotten in the modern West. Forgotten knowing is reminiscent of perennial philosophy. It contrasts with conventional science because of its orientation to the unseen world. It reveals trans-rational experiences that break through conventional notions of self, time and space. It is found in the electromagnetic center of the heart rather than the brain, and manifests in the form of intuitive intellection and holistic insights. A paramount distinction of the epistemology of forgotten knowing is its role for the knowing self. One becomes an empty vessel in order to activate the innate capacity to receive and reveal a much vaster form of knowledge having divine origins. The findings provide glimpses into forgotten knowing and reveal an ontological model unique to existing Western research praxis--a dynamic process of immanence and transcendence that explains the nature and origin of spirit and matter. This study charters the way back to Western epistemological roots. From first-hand experience it reveals: (a) how conventional knowing works and why it is inadequate for more expansive knowledge, (b) the experience of being a receptive inquirer, (c) the obstacles to overcome in order to access forgotten knowing, (d) preliminary insights into practical applications. The text closes with a literature review that juxtaposes the findings with two versions of sacred science--one from the Participatory worldview, the other from Traditionalism. It also culminates in discovering kinship between forgotten knowing, Sufism, and Islamic science.
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Subject
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Philosophy, religion and theology; Forgotten knowledge; Epistemology; Islamic science; Mystical knowing; Perennialism; Sufism; Traditionalism; Religion; Philosophy; 0422:Philosophy; 0322:Religion; 0322:Philosophy
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Added Entry
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J. Gozawa
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Added Entry
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California Institute of Integral Studies
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