Dr Rupert Sheldrake is a renowned biologist and author who has made significant contributions to the fields of biology, philosophy, and consciousness studies. I corresponded with him a few times over the years, about his remarkable research. His most controversial and thought-provoking work is on the concept of ‘morphic resonance,’ which challenges the traditional scientific understanding of the universe and the nature of reality.
Morphic resonance is a theory proposed by Dr Sheldrake that suggests that there is a field of information that connects all living things and influences their behaviour. This field, known as the morphic field, is responsible for the similarities and patterns seen in nature, from the shape of snowflakes to the behavior of animals.
The concept of morphic resonance is based on the idea that there is an inherent memory in nature that allows for the transmission of information between organisms. This memory is not limited to the brain or nervous system, as traditionally believed, but is present in all living systems. Therefore, according to Sheldrake, all living beings are connected through a collective memory, which he refers to as the ‘morphic field.’
This theory challenges the traditional scientific view, which is based on the principles of materialism and reductionism, where everything is seen as separate and mechanistic. Sheldrake’s concept of morphic resonance suggests a holistic and interconnected view of the universe, where nature is seen as a living, evolving, and intelligent system.
One of the most significant implications of this theory is the idea that the laws of nature are not fixed but are evolving and can be influenced by the collective memory of the species. This means that the behaviour of animals and even the evolution of species can be influenced by the collective memory of their predecessors. For example, Sheldrake suggests that the behaviour of animals can be influenced by the collective memory of their species, rather than just their individual experiences.
Sheldrake’s theory has gained a significant following, and his books and lectures have sparked a renewed interest in the concept of consciousness and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Many scientists and philosophers have also been inspired to explore the implications of morphic resonance in their own fields of study.
In recent years, there has been some research that supports Sheldrake’s theory. For example, studies have shown that animals can sense and respond to events that occur to other members of their species, even when physically separated. This phenomenon, known as ‘morphogenetic fields,’ provides some evidence for the presence of a collective memory in nature.
Sheldrake’s theory has also been applied to other areas, such as human behaviour and social systems. Some researchers have suggested that the concept of morphic resonance can help explain the formation of cultural norms and traditions, as well as the spread of ideas and beliefs among individuals and societies.
Dr Rupert Sheldrake’s research on morphic resonance has challenged the traditional scientific view of the universe and raised important questions about the nature of reality. While his theory is still met with scepticism by some, it has sparked a new perspective on consciousness and the interconnectedness of all living beings. As research in this field continues, it will be interesting to see how Sheldrake’s theory evolves and how it may shape our understanding of the world around us.


