Aurobindo: Evolution | Philosophy Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Introduction 

Aurobindo's Unique Philosophy of Evolution

Aurobindo Ghose, known as Sri Aurobindo, was a multifaceted philosopher, yogi, poet, and guru, whose integral philosophy is renowned for its distinctive approach to evolution.

• Departure from Darwinian Evolution: Aurobindo's philosophy diverges from Darwinism, which primarily focuses on biological evolution, by emphasizing spiritual evolution as its core theme.
• Humanity as Transitional Beings: According to Aurobindo, humans are not the final product of evolution but a transitional stage. The next phase is the emergence of a "supramental" being.
• Inner Development through Yoga: Aurobindo believed that through the practice of yoga, humanity could attain a higher consciousness, facilitating the transformation into a divine life.

Overview of Aurobindo's Life and Contributions

Sri Aurobindo's life journey and his transition from a nationalist leader to a spiritual philosopher shaped his profound perspective on evolution.

• Early Life and Nationalist Phase: Born in Calcutta in 1872, Aurobindo was educated in England and later became a prominent figure in India's struggle for independence against British rule.
• Spiritual Transformation: While imprisoned in the Alipore Bomb Case, Aurobindo had spiritual experiences that altered the course of his life, leading him towards spiritual exploration.
• Transition to Pondicherry: Aurobindo moved to Pondicherry in 1910, where he delved deeply into yogic practices and authored significant works, such as "The Life Divine" and "The Synthesis of Yoga."
• Establishment of Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Alongside his philosophical writings, Aurobindo founded the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry, attracting seekers from around the world.

Historical Evolutionary Thought

Ancient to Renaissance Perspectives

The curiosity about the origin and transformation of life has ancient roots, with diverse perspectives across different cultures.

• Vedic and Greek Views: Ancient Indian Vedic scriptures and Greek philosophers like Empedocles and Aristotle had early insights into the changing nature of existence.
• Renaissance Observations: During the Renaissance, thinkers like Leonardo da Vinci began to contemplate fossils as remnants of ancient life, refining the understanding of life's history.

Pre-Darwinian Understanding of Species Change

Before Darwin's groundbreaking theory, prevailing views held that species were unchanging creations.

• Leclerc's Gradual Change Theory: Some naturalists, like Georges-Louis Leclerc, suggested that environmental conditions could lead to gradual changes in life forms.

Darwin's Evolutionary Breakthrough

Charles Darwin's 1859 publication, "On the Origin of Species," introduced the theory of evolution by natural selection, revolutionizing the understanding of life's development.

• Darwin's Theory: Darwin proposed that traits beneficial for survival are passed on, leading to the gradual transformation of species over time.
• Philosophical Implications: Darwin's theory challenged traditional beliefs about life's purpose and raised questions about predetermined destiny and the role of humans in the universe.

Aurobindo's Entry into the Evolutionary Discourse

Aurobindo, as an influential Indian philosopher, introduced a spiritual perspective into the dialogue on evolution.

• Aurobindo's Unique View: Aurobindo's philosophy emphasized the evolution of consciousness alongside biological evolution, offering a holistic perspective.
• Material vs. Spiritual Evolution: Aurobindo's work, especially "The Life Divine," proposed that the ultimate goal of evolution is to manifest the divine on earth, uniting the spiritual and material realms.

Foundational Concepts of Aurobindo's Evolutionary Theory

Cosmological Framework

Aurobindo's evolutionary theory is deeply intertwined with his cosmological ideas.

• Dynamic Cosmos: Aurobindo viewed the universe as a dynamic manifestation of the Divine, guided by a higher intelligence.
• Role of the Supermind: Central to Aurobindo's thought is the Supermind, a realm of pure consciousness and knowledge that guides evolution.

Dual Evolutionary Process

Aurobindo proposed a dual process of evolution, distinct from Western theories.

• Descending Evolution: This process begins with the highest consciousness (Supermind) and descends into matter, culminating in life and mind.
• Ascending Evolution: From unconscious matter, life emerges, followed by mind, leading to the realization of higher spiritual states.
• Emphasis on Consciousness: Unlike materialistic views, Aurobindo highlights consciousness as the driving force behind evolution.

Integral Connection with Consciousness

Aurobindo's theory stresses that matter, life, and mind are varying manifestations of a unified consciousness.

• Departure from Materialism: Unlike prevailing materialistic views, Aurobindo places consciousness as primary, with evolution being the unfolding of consciousness.
• Leap in Consciousness: Aurobindo's works, notably "The Life Divine," foresee a shift in human evolution towards higher states of consciousness, transcending the mental realm.

Aurobindo's Distinction between Evolution, Involution, and Creation

Evolution as Conscious Unfolding

Aurobindo defines evolution as the journey of consciousness, progressing from inanimate matter to spiritual realization through higher forms of life.

• Matter as the Starting Point: Matter holds the potential for spiritual realization, and human life signifies the ascent from matter to consciousness.
• The Ultimate Goal: The objective of evolution, in Aurobindo's view, is the realization of the Spirit or Supreme Consciousness, prioritizing conscious thriving.

Involution as Spiritual Involvement in Matter

Involution precedes evolution, as the Divine consciously obscures itself within matter, setting the stage for the grand play of evolution.

• Divine Concealment: Involution represents the Divine's choice to manifest within matter, ensuring that the spark of divinity remains present even in the densest forms of matter.

Creation as the Ongoing Interplay

Creation, according to Aurobindo, is an ongoing dynamic process where the Divine manifests, obscures, and reveals itself in a cyclical dance between spirit and matter.

• Unity of Spirit and Matter: Aurobindo's perspective reconciles spirit and matter, portraying them as interconnected elements within creation's continuous cycle.
• Comparison with Other Philosophies: Aurobindo's view combines Eastern spiritual insights with Western rationality, offering a unique synthesis of creation's intricate dance.

Layers of Consciousness in Aurobindo’s Evolution

Material Consciousness: The Fundamental Layer

• Found in all physical matter, serving as the foundation for other layers.
• Present in atoms, cells, and inert objects, holding latent potential for higher consciousness.
• Serves as a dormant repository of possibilities for elevated states of consciousness.

Vital Consciousness: The Force of Life

• Represents the life force and dynamism in all living entities.
• Drives desires, emotions, instincts, and basic needs.
• Evolutionary advancement from material consciousness.

Mental Consciousness: The Realm of Thought

• Present in beings capable of thought, intellect, and reason.
• Human beings epitomize mental consciousness, with some degree in higher animals.
• Enables introspection, self-awareness, and complex decision-making, marking a significant evolutionary leap.

Overmental Consciousness: The Bridge to the Divine

• A higher plane not fully realized in humanity.
• Acts as a connection between human and divine consciousness.
• Holds vast potential and possibilities, offering glimpses of the divine but lacking complete unity.

Supramental Consciousness: The Ultimate Evolutionary Goal

• The pinnacle of Aurobindo’s consciousness layers.
• Signifies the realization of divine consciousness.
• Where individual consciousness merges with the universal, leading to a divine life on Earth.

The Role of Each Layer in Evolution

• Material Consciousness:
  • Lays the foundation for life and consciousness to manifest.
  • Contains latent potential for the emergence of higher consciousness within its essence.
• Vital Consciousness:
  • Adds complexity to life forms, enhancing their experience.
  • Drives desires and instincts, propelling organisms toward growth and reproduction.
• Mental Consciousness:
  • Introduces the capacity for thought, reason, and intellect.
  • Enables self-reflection, facilitating spiritual exploration and evolution.
• Overmental Consciousness:
  • Expands the realm of possibilities.
  • Acts as a transitional phase, guiding individuals toward the divine.
• Supramental Consciousness:
  • Represents the culmination of the evolutionary journey.
  • Achieving this state results in a harmonious, divine existence on Earth.
  • Differences Between Aurobindo's Layers and Other Hierarchies of Consciousness
• Aurobindo's Layers:
  • A holistic and spiritually oriented framework.
  • Integrates various dimensions of consciousness in an evolutionary context.
  • Emphasizes the progression from matter to spirit.
• Carl Jung's Model:
  • Focused on individual psychology and the inner world.
  • Consists of the ego, personal unconscious, and collective unconscious.
  • Less concerned with collective consciousness evolution.
• Ken Wilber's Model:
  • Analytical and structured, emphasizing multiple lines of development.
  • Includes cognitive, moral, and emotional dimensions.
  • Aurobindo's model is more seamless and spiritually oriented.

The End Goals: A New Species and a Divine Life

The Evolution Beyond Humanity

• Aurobindo envisions an evolutionary leap to a new species beyond current humanity.
• This transformation involves a profound shift in consciousness, transcending mental cognition.
• The new species would exhibit a truth-consciousness and function harmoniously and collectively.

Divine Life on Earth

• Divine life, as per Aurobindo, is not an abstract concept but a tangible reality.
• It involves transforming earthly life into a field of divine play (Leela).
• Integration of spiritual and material realms results in a life free from suffering and ignorance.

Comparisons with Transhumanism and Posthumanism

• Transhumanism:
  • Focuses on using technology to enhance human biology and cognition.
  • Aims to overcome human limitations and achieve extended lifespans and augmented capabilities.
  • While sharing a goal of enhanced potential, differs in means and foundational philosophy.
• Posthumanism:
  • Questions human centrality in the universe and traditional human nature.
  • Envisions fluid human identity, potentially merging with machines, animals, or virtual entities.
  • Differs from Aurobindo’s spiritually rooted vision with a materialistic emphasis.
• Aurobindo’s Vision:
  • Rooted in spiritual evolution and inner transformation.
  • Seeks to realize a higher potential inherent within humanity.
  • Envisions a collective upliftment leading to a transformed world.

Criticisms and Challenges to Aurobindo’s Evolution

Materialist and Atheistic Critiques

• Materialism dismisses the spiritual component and considers consciousness as a byproduct of brain activity.
• Atheists challenge the existence of a higher consciousness or divine entity.
• Aurobindo's spiritual evolution may be viewed as unscientific from this perspective.

Eastern Philosophical Challenges

• Aurobindo's philosophy draws from Vedanta and Yoga but diverges from some Eastern traditions.
• Buddhism emphasizes Anatta (no-self), contrasting Aurobindo's evolving soul concept.
• Jainism's non-violence and multiple realities differ from Aurobindo's vision.
• Aurobindo modernized and possibly distorted ancient teachings, according to traditionalists.

Integration Challenges with Modern Science

• Modern biology, based on Darwinism, lacks a spiritual dimension.
• Neuroscience's brain-centric view of consciousness challenges Aurobindo's broader consciousness concept.
• Empirical evidence for spiritual evolution is challenging to obtain and quantify.

Counterarguments from Proponents of Aurobindo’s Philosophy

• Materialistic views may be reductionist, failing to encompass the full spectrum of human experience.
• Aurobindo's holistic approach integrates body, mind, and spirit.
• Profound spiritual experiences, though unquantifiable, have transformative impacts.
• Aurobindo's theory can coexist with scientific theories, offering a broader perspective on evolution.

Aurobindo’s Evolution in the Context of Integral Yoga

The Role of Evolution in Integral Yoga

• Integral Yoga, developed by Aurobindo and The Mother, seeks the transformation of the entire being, not just liberation.
• Evolution is central to this Yoga, emphasizing humanity as transitional beings evolving toward a divine existence.
• It encompasses spiritual and material realms in its vision.

Practical Implications for Seekers

• Understanding Aurobindo’s evolutionary philosophy provides guidance for spiritual journeys.
• Offers a roadmap to recognize and work toward the latent divine potential within individuals.
• Emphasizes integration of all aspects of one’s being, not isolating spiritual experiences.
• Highlights principles of aspiration, surrender, facing inner adversaries, and active engagement in the world.

Comparisons with Other Yogic Practices

• Bhakti Yoga emphasizes devotion to a personal deity, whereas Integral Yoga offers a comprehensive approach.
• Jnana Yoga focuses on knowledge, while Integral Yoga acknowledges the importance of knowledge but does not limit seekers to it.
• Karma Yoga advocates selfless action, which is integrated into Integral Yoga, aligned with divine intent.
• Raja Yoga emphasizes meditation and mind control, which are incorporated but not the sole focus.
• Tantra's rituals and mantras are integrated into Integral Yoga in a transformative context.

Aurobindo in Comparison with Other Evolutionary Philosophers

Teilhard de Chardin and the Omega Point

• Teilhard de Chardin, a French philosopher and Jesuit priest, introduced the concept of the Omega Point.
• The Omega Point signifies the ultimate goal of evolution, where the entire universe's consciousness becomes one, echoing Christian beliefs of Christ as the "Alpha and Omega."
• Contrasting Aurobindo's Vision:
  • Aurobindo and Chardin both see evolution as progressing towards higher consciousness, but their visions differ.
  • Chardin's concept is deeply rooted in Christian theology, culminating in Christ.
  • Aurobindo's vision, influenced by Indian philosophy, envisions an evolution towards a divine consciousness beyond physical, vital, or mental realms.
  • Aurobindo's perspective allows for continual ascent into higher consciousness rather than a singular point.

Sri Krishna Prem and the Cyclical View

• Sri Krishna Prem, an Indian mystic and yogi, combined Indian spiritual wisdom with Western thought.
• The Cyclical View, present in many Indian philosophies, posits that the universe operates in cycles of creation, preservation, and destruction, repeating eternally.
• Comparing with Aurobindo:
  • Aurobindo's view of evolution appears linear, progressing toward higher consciousness.
  • Sri Krishna Prem emphasizes the cyclical nature of the universe, where each cycle returns to the starting point.
  • Both acknowledge the integral role of divine consciousness in evolution.

Bergson and the Élan Vital

• Henri Bergson, a French philosopher, introduced the concept of Élan Vital, which translates to "Vital Impulse" or "Life Force."
• Élan Vital is an immaterial force driving biological evolution and development, emphasizing the unpredictable, non-mechanical aspects.
• Comparing with Aurobindo:
  • Aurobindo and Bergson rejected purely materialistic interpretations of evolution.
  • While Aurobindo highlighted the role of divine consciousness, Bergson emphasized Élan Vital.
  • Aurobindo's evolutionary process extends beyond biology, encompassing the mental and spiritual realms, whereas Bergson's focus remains largely on biological creativity and unpredictability.

The Legacy and Influence of Aurobindo’s Evolutionary Thought

Impact on Later Spiritual Philosophies

• Sri Aurobindo, a multifaceted Indian philosopher, yogi, poet, and nationalist, offered a unique perspective on human development.
• He integrated Indian spiritual traditions with Western evolutionary thought, shaping modern spiritual philosophies.
• Aurobindo's emphasis on evolving consciousness and the concept of Brahman influenced later thinkers, such as Ken Wilber and Haridas Chaudhuri.
• Ken Wilber incorporated elements of Aurobindo’s theories into his Integral Theory.
• Haridas Chaudhuri founded the California Institute of Integral Studies, emphasizing the synthesis of Eastern and Western philosophies akin to Aurobindo’s approach.
• Aurobindo's ideas continue to inspire and resonate with contemporary spiritual thinkers and practitioners.

Aurobindo’s Influence on Academic Philosophy

• Aurobindo’s evolutionary perspective offers a unique departure from both Darwinian evolution and religious interpretations.
• He perceives evolution as a manifestation of divine consciousness, extending beyond biology to encompass mental and spiritual realms.
• Contemporary academic dialogues reference Aurobindo when discussing alternative evolution theories.
• Institutions like the California Institute of Integral Studies offer courses focusing on Aurobindo’s philosophical contributions.
• His theories bridge Eastern spiritualism with Western academic philosophy, contributing to the synthesis of seemingly disparate worldviews.

Practical Impacts

• Aurobindo’s evolutionary thought extends beyond philosophy, impacting practical sectors.
• In education, his emphasis on holistic development influences paradigms.
• The Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education in Pondicherry promotes integral education focusing on physical, mental, and spiritual growth.
• In governance, Aurobindo’s principles inform policies fostering harmony, sustainability, and integral human development.
• Cultural movements inspired by Aurobindo emphasize the evolution of individual and collective consciousness.
• Aurobindo's ideas are relevant in the 21st century, guiding discussions on sustainable development, holistic well-being, and the synthesis of diverse worldviews.

Conclusion

Recapitulation

• Sri Aurobindo, a prominent Indian philosopher, yogi, poet, and nationalist, offers profound insights.
• His evolutionary perspective integrates Eastern spirituality with Western evolutionary thought.
• "The Life Divine" and the concept of Brahman highlight the depth of his vision.
• Influences on modern spiritual thinkers and institutions demonstrate the reach of Aurobindo’s evolutionary theory.

The Enduring Relevance of Aurobindo’s Evolutionary Theory

• Aurobindo’s ideas remain relevant in contemporary times.
• They challenge narrow, purely biological understandings of evolution, advocating for the inclusion of mental and spiritual dimensions.
• Aurobindo's principles are applied in education, governance, and cultural movements, addressing the quest for sustainability and holistic well-being.
• His philosophy bridges Eastern spiritualism and Western academic philosophy, offering a holistic perspective on existence.

Encouraging Continued Exploration

• Readers are encouraged to explore Aurobindo’s extensive writings to grasp the nuances of his evolutionary theory and spiritual landscape.
• Works like "Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol" provide poetic encapsulations of his metaphysical ideas.
• Beyond Aurobindo, related subjects like Integral Yoga offer practical frameworks for conscious and integral living.
• Aurobindo's insights serve not only as philosophical guidance but also as practical pathways to a conscious and integral life in contemporary times.