Neil Theise is a professor of pathology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Through his scientific research, he has been a pioneer of adult stem cell plasticity and the anatomy of the human interstitium. Dr. Theise’s studies in complexity theory have led to interdisciplinary collaborations in fields such as integrative medicine, consciousness studies, and science-religion dialogue. He is a senior Zen student at the Village Zendo in NYC. His life long Jewish practice has involved both traditional observances and formal academic study. In recent years, (to his surprise) he has also undergone shamanic initiation.

Books: 

General Audience:

Notes on Complexity: A Scientific Theory of Connection, Consciousness, and Being

Of academic interest:

Awakening: Exploring Spirituality, Emergent Creativity, and Reconciliation

Transforming: Applying Spirituality, Emergent Creativity, and Reconciliation

Website: neiltheiseofficial.com

Discussion of this interview in the BatGap Community Facebook Group

Summary and transcript of this interview.

Interview recorded March 9, 2024

YouTube Video Chapters:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Buddha at the Gas Pump

00:04:25 - Complexity Theory and the study of life

00:08:34 - Dynamic Healing of the GI Tract

00:12:40 - Artificial Life and Complexity Theory

00:17:26 - Awakening through the Koan "Mu"

00:22:41 - The Fascinating Idea of Biocentrism and Organizing Complexity

00:25:45 - Discovering Complexity Theory

00:28:37 - The Illusion of Materiality and the Nature of Pure Awareness

00:33:37 - The Non-dual Fundamental Awareness

00:37:38 - Complementarity in Quantum Physics and Beyond

00:42:36 - The Quantum Field of the Body

00:46:29 - Direct experiences of quantum level reality

00:49:14 - The True Nature of Conscious Reality

00:53:25 - The Illusion of Reality

00:56:56 - The Mechanism of Human Consciousness

01:01:23 - Challenging Empirical Science and Promissory Materialism

01:04:51 - The Intimacy of Subject and Object in Quantum Science

01:08:53 - The Limitations of Mathematics and Empirical Science

01:13:30 - Gödel and Turing's Implications for Mystical Exploration and Consciousness

01:17:33 - Shifting Paradigms and the Nature of Consciousness

01:21:20 - Self-Organization and Complexity in the Universe

01:24:44 - Negative and Positive Feedback Loops

01:29:02 - The Adjacent Possibles and Creativity

01:32:16 - The Subtle Dimensions of Living Beings and the Universe

01:35:26 - Language Limitations and Perspective

01:39:02 - Awakening through Traumatic Experiences

01:42:35 - Wondering about Luck and the Beloved Name

01:45:28 - The Universe's Construction and Spiritual Practices

01:48:30 - The Divine Feminine and Unconditional Love

01:52:57 - The Nature of Reality and True Compassion

01:55:56 - Conclusion