Technology and Intuitive Knowing: The Forgotten Domain

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The purpose of this paper is to present research applied in a psychological setting which demonstrates the value of a multi-modal technological approach to helping people learn and grow. Humans perceive reality via two very different pathways (Lazslo, 2004). Computer technology tends to only address one of these. Using both modes of perceiving the world, perceptual-cognitive and direct-intuitive, makes people more fully human. Individuals use intellect to analyze and soma to feel. This results in a more integrated holistic experience of knowing.

Information and communication technology is the primary focus of this research. The exponentially rapid advance in these areas of technology is staggering, doubling every 18 months according to Moore’s law. Since 1958, the beginning of the information technology revolution, the power of technology has focused mainly on perceptual-cognitive knowing.

Direct-intuitive knowing has largely been left alone in the digital age. Computers are unable to answer what it means for an individual to live an optimal human life. The cognitive order-producing part of the human brain has been overjoyed with what technology has been able to deliver but the deeper meaning-making structures have been left adrift.

This research asks bigger questions about what technology is not providing; the deeper soul questions that come from direct-intuitive knowing. It then goes on not to reject technology but invite us into a more expansive relationship that produces tools which balance our current one-sided perceptual-cognitive knowing paradigm with the intuitive. It’s time for technology to assist not only with entertainment and productivity but also to help rediscover what it really means to be human.

The methods used for this research are theoretical and quantitative analysis. Ideas from the fields of psychology, physics, and neuroscience are used to provide a foundation for this work. Data gathering is done via biofeedback devices, interviews, and self-report.

Stream: Technologies in Community

Paper: A paper has not yet been submitted.

Thomas Lucking comes from a varied background of software engineering and psychology. He spent time at Microsoft transforming the way we use computers to communicate and enhance productivity. Thomas moved onto study psychology and spirituality and in the process became a licensed mental health provider. His doctoral studies focus on the integration of technology and psychology. Thomas complements this research by delivering technology tools via a software company that he co-founded. Intuitive Health Logic provides "intuitive and logical" tools to the healthcare industry for the purpose of meeting the holistic needs of patients.