Scientific
research into the phenomenon of collective wisdom is in its infancy. However,
a large number of studies have been conducted over the past 30 years, which
directly or indirectly suggest the nature and effects of collective consciousness,
and provide a solid starting point for the scientific study of collective
wisdom. The Powers of Place
by Renee Levi
An Inquiry into the Influence of Place, Space and Environment on Collective
Transformation
Using
a phenomenological methodology Dr. Renee Levi has recently completed
a careful, revealing and provocative research study inquiring
into the influence of place, space and environment on collective
transformational experience. Her research was based on the following
questions: (a) What is the influence of place.
space and environment on collective transformational experience,
separate from other factors such as design of a meeting or gathering,
topic, or facilitator skill? (b) How is the setting
perceived and described by individuals participating in transformational
group experiences? (c) What specific elements
of the environment are most influential? and (d)
How can characteristics and qualities of place, space and environment—if
more thoroughly understood—be more consciously included
in the design of gathering places and guiding processes where
collective transformation is intended?
The
Collective Wisdom Initiative invited Fetzer Fellow, Robert
Kenny, to create an overview of the research that is relevant
to studying collective consciousness and wisdom. Robert's seed
paper includes an integrative, organizing framework, a rich array
of research examples, references to key researchers and research
institutions, and ample links to resources that interested individuals
can investigate. We invite you to take a glimpse into what is
likely the most up-to-date and comprehensive review and analysis
of the scientific evidence for collective consciousness. We and
Robert would love your feedback and comments. If you feel any
important research has been missed, please let us know.
This
summary by Renee Levi
provides a brief but comprehensive overview of her doctoral dissertation
on a group phenomenon she calls collective resonance, the "magic"
that occurs in everyday situations enabling groups to transcend
their usual ways of working together. If something in this writing
reminds you of a personal experience of collective resonance and
you are willing to share it, she would like to know about it.
The research continues
in the form of a growing collection of remembered stories, and
each one that comes forward amplifies the entire field. Please
contact
Renee or visit The
Resonance Project. See also Elements
and Shifting Factors of Collective Resonance.
