Toward a Holistic Intelligence: Life on the Other Side of the Digital Barrier

Toward a Holistic Intelligence examines how the Internet and digital devices are affecting our thought processes, working memories, attention spans, and overall intelligence, and suggests a larger intelligence based on direct insight and creative absorption to explore our world and ourselves.

Format: Hardback
Length: 148 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Toward a Holistic Intelligence: Life on the Other Side of the Digital Barrier is a critical examination of the impact of the Internet, our current digital age, and the widespread use of digital devices on our thought processes, working memories, attention spans, and overall level of intelligence. It explores how a larger intelligence based primarily on direct insight and creative absorption, qualities that are integral to our emotive and sensorial lives, might allow for a clearer exploration of our world and ourselves at a time when our cognitive lives are being significantly disrupted by the Internet and its associated technologies.

The Internet has revolutionized the way we communicate, access information, and interact with the world around us. However, its impact on our cognitive abilities has been a subject of growing concern. Studies have shown that excessive use of digital devices can lead to a range of negative effects, including reduced attention span, impaired memory, and decreased problem-solving skills.

One of the primary reasons for these negative effects is the way that digital devices are designed. They are designed to provide instant gratification and to keep us engaged for long periods of time. This can lead to a state of constant distraction, where we are unable to focus on one task for an extended period of time. Additionally, the constant flow of information and notifications can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety and stress.

Another factor that contributes to the negative effects of digital devices is the way that they are used. Many people use digital devices as a means of escape from their daily lives, to avoid social interactions, or to engage in addictive behaviors. This can lead to a lack of social skills, a sense of isolation, and a reduced sense of self-worth.

Despite these negative effects, there is also a growing recognition of the potential benefits of digital devices. For example, digital devices can provide access to a vast amount of information and resources, which can help us to learn and develop new skills. They can also facilitate communication and collaboration, allowing us to connect with people from all over the world.

However, it is important to recognize that the benefits of digital devices must be balanced with the negative effects. This can be done by setting limits on the amount of time that we spend using digital devices, by engaging in activities that promote mindfulness and relaxation, and by seeking out social interactions and experiences that are not mediated by technology.

One approach to achieving a more holistic intelligence is to focus on developing our direct insight and creative absorption. Direct insight involves the ability to perceive the world directly and to understand it in a deep and meaningful way. Creative absorption involves the ability to engage in creative activities and to be fully absorbed in the process.

These qualities are integral to our emotive and sensorial lives, and they can help us to develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and our world. By engaging in activities that promote direct insight and creative absorption, we can develop a more holistic intelligence that is not limited by the constraints of the Internet and its associated technologies.

One example of an activity that promotes direct insight and creative absorption is meditation. Meditation involves focusing on the present moment and clearing the mind of distractions. It has been shown to have a range of benefits, including reduced stress, improved concentration, and increased creativity.

Another example of an activity that promotes direct insight and creative absorption is art. Art involves the creation of visual or auditory works that express emotions and ideas. It can be a powerful tool for self-expression and for connecting with others.

In addition to these activities, it is also important to engage in social interactions and experiences that are not mediated by technology. This can include spending time with family and friends, participating in community activities, and traveling to new places.

However, it is important to recognize that the benefits of social interactions and experiences can be diminished by the use of digital devices. For example, social media can be a source of anxiety and stress, and it can also lead to a sense of isolation and a reduced sense of self-worth.

To address these issues, it is important to develop a more balanced approach to the use of digital devices. This can include setting limits on the amount of time that we spend using digital devices, engaging in activities that promote mindfulness and relaxation, and seeking out social interactions and experiences that are not mediated by technology.

In conclusion, Toward a Holistic Intelligence: Life on the Other Side of the Digital Barrier is a critical examination of the impact of the Internet, our current digital age, and the widespread use of digital devices on our thought processes, working memories, attention spans, and overall level of intelligence. It explores how a larger intelligence based primarily on direct insight and creative absorption might allow for a clearer exploration of our world and ourselves at a time when our cognitive lives are being significantly disrupted by the Internet and its associated technologies. By setting limits on the amount of time that we spend using digital devices, engaging in activities that promote mindfulness and relaxation, and seeking out social interactions and experiences that are not mediated by technology, we can develop a more holistic intelligence that is not limited by the constraints of the Internet and its associated technologies.

Weight: 367g
Dimension: 227 x 147 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781475863734