Lecture on Novelty Theory and Time

Introduction to Novelty Theory

• Originated in the early 1970s.
• Inspired by psychedelic plant experiences in the Amazon.
• Aims to deconstruct and understand time.
• Concludes that novelty, or complexity, increases as we approach the present moment.

Key Insights and Concepts

Novelty and Complexity

• The universe is more novel and complex now than in the early universe.
• Developmental processes are questioned; why does the universe favor order despite the second law of thermodynamics?
• Emergence of complex forms, languages, organisms, technologies.

Asymptotic Curve of Complexification

• Complexification occurs faster over time.
• Human activities (technologies, art, ideologies) are part of nature’s process of complexification.
• Cosmos viewed as a novelty-producing engine.

The Omega Point

• The universe is complexifying rapidly, leading to a transcendent Omega Point.
• Human population, global internet, and electronic spheres suggest proximity to this transcendental object.
• Aligns with apocalyptic intuitions in religions and the Mayan calendar predictions.

Novelty Theory and Time

Time Speeding Up

• Time is experienced through events occurring within it.
• More complex systems over time (from simple plasma to molecular chemistry and life).
• Universe moving towards ultimate connectivity where all points are interconnected.

Role of Consciousness

• Consciousness integrates and brings data into congruent relationships.
• Universe becomes more aware and self-conscious over time.

Human and Machine Symbiosis

Transition from Genetic to Epigenetic Change

• Past changes were slow genetic changes; human evolution introduced rapid epigenetic changes.
• Human-machine symbiosis will further accelerate these processes.

Virtual Reality and Information

• Virtual reality as a bridge to understanding future transitions.
• Information is not time and space constrained, unlike matter.

Theories and Models

E Ching and DNA

• E Ching seen as a model for molecular dynamics rather than mysticism.
• Uncanny resemblance between the structures of E Ching and DNA.
• Insights from Eastern traditions on time can complement Western scientific achievements in energy.

Strange Attractor

• Universe processes could be influenced by a transcendental attractor rather than only past causal events.
• Attractors guide evolution and progression toward complexification.

Human Role and Evolution

Human History and Complexification

• Human civilization seen as evidence of the universe's progression towards higher complexity.
• Purpose of human life: advance and preserve novelty.

Current and Future Predictions

• Expect exponential increase in both good and evil acts.
• Artificial life, cloning, extraterrestrial contact, rising and falling social norms.

Archaic Revival

Return to Archaic Values

• 20th-century trends like surrealism, jazz, body art, reflect returning to archaic values.
• Psychedelic experience as a key to understanding shamanistic and future states.

Ecological and Ethical Considerations

• Emphasis on reconnecting with nature, seeing it as a conscious, living entity.
• Importance of aligning human practices with natural methods for survival.

Conclusion

• Understanding time and novelty offers insights into the purpose of the universe.
• The fusion of Eastern and Western knowledge can lead to a comprehensive understanding of reality.
• We stand on the verge of a significant evolutionary leap, driven by increased connectivity and complexity.