Harman bases his argument on the shift that...

Harman bases his argument on the shift that, he believes, is taking place in the understanding of metaphysics, that is, the understanding of reality and how things have come to be. The first, M1 (Metaphysic 1), has been the dominant perspective in the past and it holds that consciousness evolved from matter and it can only be understood by a study of the physical brain.

The second, M2 (Metaphysic 2), recognizes two dimensions to knowledge, one which can be studied objectively but which recognizes the value and complementarity of subjective study as well. The third, M3 (Metaphysic 3), recognizes that consciousness came first and all matter-energy is somehow generated by the mind.

Ultimately, Harman attributes the cause for the global mind change that is becoming evident in the contemporary world to the shift of the understanding of the metaphysic from M1 to M3 which does not necessarily deny the reality of the physical world; rather it offers a different vantage point from which to view the world, that is, it appears to point to*‘a reality behind the physical world that modern science, in its present form, is in no position to affirm or deny’ (p. 31)* .

To support his contention, Harman identifies three characteristics that he believes are evidence of this paradigm change and which distinctly contrast with the positivistic, reductionist view of modern science: •Increased emphasis on the interconnectedness of everything which includes both our inner and outer worlds, for instance, in the various social movements - ecological, feminist, holistic health and the new spirituality.

•A shift in the locus of authority from external to internal, for instance, the growing disenchantment in religious and political spheres with external authorities which has prompted more reliance on intuition and inner wisdom. Harman particularly points to the assumption of inner divinity in transpersonal psychology and other forms of contemporary spirituality.

•A shift in the perception of cause from external to internal, for instance, the concept that we create our own reality and that ultimate cause is to be sought not in the physical world but in our minds, or consciousness.