A Universal Learning Process

by Brendan Graham Dempsey

In this first volume of his book series The Evolution of Meaning, Dempsey introduces a theory of meaning based in thermodynamics and information processing. If the acquisition of meaningful information is what allows entities to keep far from equilibrium, we can appreciate cosmic complexification through evolution as a learning process. Tracking the trajectory of this learning process through the emergent levels of Matter, Life, Mind, and Culture, we see how meaning takes on new shades of depth and informational richness across scales. By the time we reach the domain of human culture, we can recognize notions of meaning, value, and the sacred as extensions of more fundamental processes on which they are based but to which they cannot be reduced. This framework allows us to situate human meaning-making within its broader evolutionary context and will inform the attempt in future volumes to track the complexification of such meanings across human history.

Genres: Philosophy

150 pages, Paperback

Published June 27, 2024

About the author

Brendan Graham Dempsey is a writer whose work focuses on the meaning crisis and the nature of spirituality in metamodernity.

He earned his BA in Religious Studies from the University of Vermont and his MA in Religion and the Arts from Yale University. ​

He lives in Wolcott, Vermont.

Reviews

[Caleb Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique and concise endeavor to explain the evolving physical and sacred origins of meaning across matter, life, mind, and culture through the universal processes of complexification and learning. Highly recommended.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I join Jim Rutt in strongly recommending this book.