Ecological Worldviews: Panpsychism

Panpsychism is the philosophical view that consciousness—or a mind-like quality—is a fundamental feature of the Universe, not merely an emergent property unique to humans. In other words, reality has an inner or experiential dimension alongside its external, physical aspects. Panpsychism generally understands all matter to be capable of conscious experience—even down to the level of atoms—though not all things have the capacity to think. From ancient Greek philosophy to renewed modern interests, Panpsychism has captivated people who puzzle over the reality of consciousness—and the possible origins of consciousness within reality.