Research & exploration: Our behaviour as humans (and as a collective)
Chapter 3: Introduction to my learning journey on Systems Change
In the previous chapter we explored the multifaceted meanings of consciousness through the perspectives of meditators, psychologists, holistic therapists, ecopreneurs, athletes, authors, and environmental activists.
When pondering “How might we scale environmental awareness and action by tapping into the collective consciousness?”, it becomes evident that a shift of behaviour is inherently intertwined. The individual level of consciousness, as discussed on Chapter 2 — “more conscious and less conscious” — is one of the aspects that shape our actions. As I continued the discussion with the interviewees, we’ve begun to map out the variables that influence human behaviour. While this exercise is not an exhaustive scientific analysis of our complex nature, it serves as a valuable starting point for understanding the interplay between consciousness and behaviour.
Genetics and epigenetics are a pivotal topic raised by psychologists and holistic therapists, shedding light on how our inherited traits shape our behaviour. We carry a genetic legacy from previous generations, including unresolved traumas that may linger in our bodies, affecting our awareness and emotional well-being. This ‘inheritance pain’ can hinder our ability to transcend our past experiences and see beyond our immediate struggles. For instance, the trauma of historical events like the holocaust can reverberate through multiple generations, impacting individuals’ perceptions and behaviours.
Furthermore, our upbringing and environment play significant roles in shaping our personalities. During early childhood, we begin to form our ego and adopt narratives that continue to evolve with us. Cultural influences, family dynamics, and social environments all contribute to our development, influencing our beliefs and attitudes. Individuals raised in nurturing and supportive environments may exhibit different behaviours than those raised in hostile or closed-off surroundings. Similarly, urban upbringing, with its exposure to diverse social interactions, can result in a different mindset compared to a more isolated upbringing with limited social contact.
We also possess a remarkable ability to learn by imitation through a mechanism known as ‘mirror neurons’. When a child observes an adult performing a task, mirror neurons in their brain activate as if they were performing the task themselves, aiding in the learning and replication process. Hence the importance for kids to practice at home the change they want to see reflected in the world.
This phenomenon extends beyond childhood. A vivid example is the herd effect observed during the Covid pandemic and the mass manipulations orchestrated by governments, ideological groups, and powerful institutions, exploiting fear and storytelling techniques to influence behaviour. Threatened individuals seek solace in conformity, yet may also resort to inaction or denial if overwhelmed by the ‘emotional constipation and mental obesity’ arising from the avalanche of (dis)information released by the media.
The proliferation of social media has significantly amplified the reach and impact of these social behaviours. A negative loop can become the norm, as humans tend to suffer from cognitive dishonesty, meaning they can easily identify incongruences on others but not on themselves.
According to the activist Marie Geneste, “the fact that 10% of the wealthiest individuals in the world are responsible for 50% of the emissions released into the atmosphere is a consequence of the inaction from us — the intellectual and financial capital — and the ones in power.”
As we delve into Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, we encounter the understanding that our choices reflect our level of awareness of the subject. By acknowledging what was previously unknown, we’re empowered to initiate change. This newfound awareness can be likened to bringing a blurred image into focus or illuminating a dark room with a light bulb.
Following this line of thought, the connection to the present moment through mindfulness (used as an alternative to consciousness) increases our ability to capture information and inspire change.
“We must trust our ability to transform and adapt.” Niels de Fraguier, author of Regenerative Enterprise.
We’ll explore behaviour change further in the next chapter of this series, but I would like to bring to attention another essential aspect of human behaviour: connection. Connecting with others to achieve a common goal feels motivating, energising.
“People want community, they want to be inspired, motivated by something. In traditional ways, it’s been religion — today it feels limiting.” Kat Egan, founder of Soul Sessions.
Collaborating with others can boost empowerment, spark agency, and provide a sense that we can indeed make the difference. As I continue my inquiry journey, I wonder if the individual shift in awareness towards our relationship and belonging to nature could catalyse a ripple effect, inspiring a growing collective to take action. By nurturing this awareness and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world, we may unlock the potential for a transformative change on a collective scale.
I’ll see you in the next chapter!
CONTINUE READING
Chapter 1: Diving in to find a way out of the climate crisis.
Chapter 2: What is consciousness and how it manifests?
Chapter 4: What makes us change?
Chapter 5: Our connection to and disconnection from nature
Chapter 6: Who are the awakened individuals taking action?
Chapter 7: Living a sustainable life
