Spectrum of Development

Actual experience always entails a dynamic interaction of both conscious and unconscious. Putting it simply, the conscious relates directly to what is finite and actual, whereas the unconscious relates to what is potential and infinite. As these two aspects are qualitatively distinct from each other, equally they require distinctive methods of intellectual translation. At its most basic, I have long argued for the need for a binary digital means of interpreting development (which represents an ongoing transformation process). In this system, 1 represents unitary form and relates to a linear (1-dimensional) method of interpretation. By contrast 0 represents emptiness i.e. nothingness as the potential for all form. Though in direct terms in experience this is strictly of an intuitive nature, indirectly it can be translated rationally through the use of complementary opposites. So in a comprehensive approach to development, we must combine both linear (either/or) logic that is unam...

In the forthcoming blogs I will be dealing with the various bands, levels and stages on the full Spectrum of Development. There are some distinct features of this approach that are derived from long standing reflection and experience which I will mention here. 1) The approach is dynamically interactive combining two contrasting approaches: (a) the linear method (based on asymmetrical distinctions) that is directly suited for the differentiated aspects of experience: (b) the circular approach (based on complementary relationships as between polar opposites) that is directly suited for interpretation of the integral aspect. For example using a linear approach stages unfold in a hierarchical sequential fashion moving from unambiguous lower to higher stages. However from the equally valid circular approach all stages are already present in development (to some degree). So a key requirement is to successfully show how these seemingly contrasting approaches to development can be ...