by Christopher B. Jones
ABSTRACT
This paper addresses the possible emergence of global consciousness. It explores some of the history and origins of global brain, global mind, and global consciousness concepts. It uses an integral, Wilberian analysis to detail the forces converging toward global consciousness and those forces resistant to it. The essay also suggests that global mind and brain concepts are overlapping and related structures that are somehow tied not only to human consciousness (a la Wilber), but also to the emergence of planetary consciousness. The paper concludes with a call for an integral, Gaian perspective that incorporates co-evolutionary principles and a balance between inner and outer growth.