A climate simulation to determine the temperature at the surface of Venus during its early life was done, using data from a space probe (Magellan), orbital parameters and hypothesis like athmospheric composition, solar spectral irradiance, ocean volume,… It concludes that Venus could have had moderate/habitable surface temperatures – an average of 11°C to 56°C – during its early life, up to 715 million years after its formation.
A new theory of cosmology of the universe was published, which main feature is the cyclic aspect – expansion-contraction. Compared to previous identical theories, the characteristics of this new one matches with current observations. The cyclic evolution is dominantly classical; it does not require quantum domination period, therefore eliminating the multiverse hypothesis, well-known for its impossibility to be demonstrated (10 to the power 500 possible universes…). At the end of the contraction phase, dimensions never cross the Planck scale limits, therefore eliminating also the singularity of the current General relativity model.
One of the latest theory on Gravitation (Quantum Gravity) is displaying a deep connection with Taoist Cosmology. A paper published by Steven M. Rosen proposes a comparison between some of the key concepts of both theories. Emphasis is put on similarities between Symmetry Breaking in Modern Physics (Strings Theory) and the Yin-Yang mechanism in Taoism. The proposed model includes the evolution of elementary particles through cycles of expansion and contraction of a spiraling universe.
Stress-related diseases like major depression is causing visible alterations on the individual’s genome. A recent study demonstrated that stress and adversity can cause mtDNA amount and telomeric length reversible changes. One possible hypothesis linking stress/adversity to molecular changes could be through the hypothalamic pituitary axis.
Madame Blavastky explained to her students that : “The fourth cavity of the brain is the Pituitary Body, which corresponds with Manas-Antaskarana, the bridge to the Higher Intelligence; it contains various essence. The pituitary Body is the organ per se of the psychic plane.” (Collected Writings, Vol. XII, p. 697)
A new study published in Current Biology reveals that religious belief has a negative influence on children’s altruism and judgments of other’s actions. The survey covers some of the monotheistic religions only (Christian’s and Moslem’s). This study report was later on retracted from publication, but can still be accessed here.
Madame Blavastky wrote an article in The Theosophist, Vol. V, N° 2 (1883) about morality and religion : “Exoteric religions base their morality on the hope of reward and fear of punishment at the hands of an Omnipotent Ruler of the Universe by following the rules he has at his pleasure laid down for the obedience of his helpless subjects; in some cases, however, religions of later growth have made morality to depend on the sentiment of gratitude to that Ruler for benefits received. The worthlessness, not to speak of the mischievousness, of such systems of morality, is almost self-evident.”
Measurements of the universe expansion rate are giving conflicting results. Since the discovery of the expansion of the universe (Edwin Hubble – 1920’s), the measure of the expansion rate has been improved to a good level of accuracy . . . until a new evaluation method delivered a value with a significant departure from the estimated one. This could invalidate the current standard theory of cosmology (^CDM), which includes dark matter and dark energy.
An interview of Pr. Charles T. Tart about E.S.P. (Extra-Sensory Perception), where he is discussing his experiences/researches in the field of parapsychology, and specifically Remote Viewing.
Trading between honesty and self-interest is a good indicator of the state of maturity of our societies. A recent study using field experiment in 40 countries shows how honest behavior can be affected by a number of societal factors.
A group of scientists is currently discussing the possibilities to define and legalize rights for Nature, in order to counteract the destruction of the natural world. The “Rights-of-Nature” movement is seeking to promote the rights of non-human life. Some countries, like Ecuador and Bolivia, have already started this process. The aim is to render illegitimate the most destructive activities.
Environmental heavy destruction may not be new. In May 1891, Madame Blavatsky wrote in her magazine, Lucifer Vol. VIII, N° 45 : “Owing to the triumphant march and the invasion of civilization, Nature, as well as man and ethics, is sacrificed, and is fast becoming artificial. Climate are changing, and the face of the whole world will soon be altered. Under the murderous hand of the pioneers of civilization, the destruction of whole primeval forests is leading to the drying up of rivers. . . The pure air of the country is polluted with smoke, the smells of greasy railway-engines, and the sickening odors of gin, whiskey and beer.”
Jainism defines clairvoyance as one of the five types of knowledge and it classify it is direct knowledge. Ancient Jain Scriptures indicate that attempts where made to estimate the size of the smallest particles of matter through power of clairvoyance. The smallest particle was measured and its measurement is consistent with current scientific knowledge.
Recently, a new model has been developed by scientists, integrating matter, mind, space and time. More dimensions were added, including three dimensions for consciousness. The outcomes of this model is in good quantitative agreement with the number of “anu” seen by Annie Besant and co-workers some one hundred twenty years ago.
