On Being One

A short and beautifully written book about the relationship between science and mysticism, distilled from both reading and experience. John wrote a number of books about science over 20 years ago, and has devoted his time since then to more intensive study of mystical texts. He remarks that while science is the study of matter by mind, mysticism is the exploration of consciousness by consciousness. Both are therefore looking at the same universe from a different perspective, and both are dedicated to the quest for truth. The book is divided into three parts, first the story of the perennial philosophy, then its context in everyday life, and finally the story of science within the context of the One Spirit whose immanent presence pervades the universe. As readers will be aware, a science with an inherent spiritual perspective would look very different. A key issue is whether one identifies oneself with this One or thinks of oneself as an independent entity. Becoming aware of the presence of the One within oneself extends this sense of identity. This corresponds to a different way of knowing, what John calls climbing the Axis of Being within ourselves. This is the eternal quest, and if we can realise it we are never apart from the One.