What if evolution was the linchpin that brought science and spirituality together? Everything in the universe is subject to evolution, including matter, life and human culture—and science has shown evolution to be unmistakably progressive. In his new book, EVOLUTION’S PURPOSE: An Integral Interpretation of the Scientific Story of Our Origins (SelectBooks; September, 2012) integral philosopher Steve McIntosh reveals the meaning of evolution—to gradually unfold toward ever-widening realizations of beauty, truth and goodness. “The philosophical recognition of evolution’s purpose uplifts science and spirituality by better integrating and harmonizing these two indispensable approaches to truth,” he says.
The purpose of evolution doesn’t lie in “intelligent design” or external control, but rather in the creative choices of evolutionary creatures themselves. McIntosh, an original member of Deepak Chopra’s “Evolutionary Leaders” group, shows how the scientific story of our origins is actually a profound spiritual teaching compatible with many forms of contemporary spirituality. In EVOLUTION’S PURPOSE, McIntosh discusses:
- Science’s growing recognition of the phenomenon of emergence, which ties together all forms of evolution.
- Why traditional philosophies no longer adequately explain the fullness of evolution.
- Why the idea that evolution is accidental or meaningless is just as mythical as the idea that the world was created in six days.
- Why growth toward beauty, truth and goodness harmonizes with scientific truth.
- How the creatures of evolution influence evolution’s progressive improvements.
- Reconciling evolution’s purpose with the presence of evil and suffering in the world.
Taking us from pre-biotic forms of life right up through the development of human consciousness and our global civilization, McIntosh presents a fresh and compelling view of evolutionary science and philosophy that will inspire a deeper understanding of evolution itself and show how it can lead directly to a more evolved world.
“McIntosh is persuasive in his arguments.”
— Holmes Rolston III, Ph.D, winner of the 2003 Templeton prize and author of Environmental Ethics
“Evolution’s Purpose is truly excellent, clear and convincing.”
— Dr. Ervin Laszlo, Distinguished system scientist, President of the Club of Budapest,
and author of more than 30 books on evolution.
“Evolution’s Purpose is a masterpiece!”
— Andrew Cohen, author of Evolutionary Enlightenment, and founder of EnlightenNext
“Steve McIntosh’s brilliant ideas are both stimulating and comforting …”
—Marianne Williamson, author of A Return to Love
About the author:
STEVE MCINTOSH, J.D., is author of Integral Consciousness and the Future of Evolution (Paragon House, 2007), and a leader in the integral philosophy movement. A graduate of the University of Virginia Law School and the University of Southern California Business School, since 1995 McIntosh has served as founder and president of the consumer products company Now & Zen, Inc. In addition to his work in philosophy, McIntosh has had a variety of other successful careers, including practicing law with one of America’s biggest firms, working as an executive with the tea company Celestial Seasonings, and Olympic-class bicycle racing. For more on his work, visit: www.stevemcintosh.com