Should Scientists Sit on the Fence regarding their Metaphysical Understanding of Reality?

Abstract

As a child, I lived in an interrelated world where I could communicate with plants, trees, and animals. However, I, influenced by others' perceptions of reality, eventually rejected my experiential reality. Later, I also initially cast aside my belief in a soul as I did not find it reflected while studying psychology. To understand more about the repudiation of my own experiences, I explore the mechanisms we use to influence the reality of others when children are young and later in the academic environment. I also refer to research that backs up or reflects some of my experiences. As society is seen here as a "collection of minds", this author contends it is impossible to understand unconscious psychological biases without considering the biases in the prevailing group or subgroup of society that reflect the collective thought of its members. Psychology and its various branches constitute a subgroup where the prevailing understandings of psychology and its branches change depending on the unconscious metaphysical biases and preferences in vogue among their members. To understand these biases, I share some metaphysical understandings of reality according to the three principal schools of Indian Spirituality (Advaita, Dvaita and Vishishadvaita), Theravada Buddhism and the three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam). To overcome these biases, educators should be aware of and openly declare their metaphysical position so others can assess their teachings according to the shared framework. It is also recommended that the metaphysical positions, including those not mentioned here, be taught in Psychology and Transpersonal Psychology. Through accepting differences, we can show respect for each other's understanding, yet at the same time, we can be true to our position, as it affects all we think, say and do. However, in the end, only knowledge based on our lived experiences can finally put a stop to our questions.