Abstract

This dissertation explores the experience of the relationship of higher states of consciousness to external, consensus reality in a qualitative research framework utilizing a heuristic model. The heuristic approach was compatible with studying the personal and subjective nature of the experience of the relationship of higher states of consciousness to external, consensus reality. The material in this study was obtained from interviews with co-researchers and the synthesis of the personal experience of the topic by the researcher. Ten adults served as co-researchers, who participated in open-ended interviews, in which they described their personal experiences of the relationship of higher states of consciousness to external, consensus reality. The material that emerged from these interviews and the researchers' self-inquiry was heuristically processed and revealed two theme clusters describing seven aspects of the experience of the relationship of higher states of consciousness to external, consensus reality. The findings indicate that the relationship of higher states of consciousness and external, consensual reality is experienced as a mutually co-creative and co-emergent process in which both higher states of consciousness and external, consensual reality causally interact to create the experience of their united relationship to each other. The experience of this relationship was found to be a subjective process of interaction which was experienced as a spiritual or Divine realization. This realization was reportedly experientially known as the purpose of life, which was difficult to articulate. The experience of the realization of this relationship engendered personal growth and transformation in those who experienced it. These findings support the concept of a paradigm shift toward a holographic model of the universe. The theories of morphogenetic fields, parallel universes, and the multidimensional and simultaneous aspects of reality were supported by this research. Implications are presented for the future evolution in consciousness of humanity both individually and collectively. Recommendations for the application of these findings were made for future evolution in the fields of sociology, politics, psychology, education, linguistics, noetics, spirituality, and survival of the human species and planet earth