Exploring the Nature of Reality: An Activated Young Mind Questions Our Understanding

Introduction to the Journey of Questioning Reality

Since finishing my two university science degrees, no event has led me to question the nature of reality that was not rationally explainable within the framework of commonly-accepted reality. However, my approach to science involves an open mind, constantly asking questions and seeking solutions without resorting to fantasies. Studying physics, maths, biology, and more, I have encountered challenges that highlight the gaps in our current understanding and thus, have fostered a deeper quest for comprehension.

While it's true that studying science trains you to question everything, the essence of my journey is to explore and deepen our understanding, rather than to dismiss it as an illusion. The discrepancies and mysteries, such as infinity in mathematics and the challenge of unifying quantum mechanics with large-scale realities, continue to intrigue me. My curiosity began at a young age, driven by abstract and conceptual thinking, and has shaped my lifelong pursuit of understanding our universe.

Early Experiences Questioning the Nature of Reality

From a very young age, I felt as if I had been here before, a feeling that perplexed my parents with confused stares. My intellectual curiosity and questioning led to my banishment from Catholic school, where I was banned from ever attending any Catholic school for the rest of my life for asking questions and challenging the teachers' lack of knowledge.

My experience in public school also fueled my desire to question the status quo. I found the lecture books impersonal and often written by the winners, ignoring the facts and intelligent conversations. By the age of 12, I was already sitting at the adult table during my parents' weekly gatherings and developed a young drinking habit, which lasted until I reached 14. Realizing my body was too young for such harmful behavior, I stopped. This early experience instilled in me a deep sense of awareness and a drive to seek deeper understanding.

Development of Abstract and Conceptual Thinking

Abstract and conceptual thinking developed significantly during adolescence, where the shift to deeper questioning began. For instance, young children might ask "Where do babies come from?" and accept an answer without further thought. However, by adolescence, questions like "What is the meaning of life?" and "What is infinity?" arose as we sought to abstract and create concepts. These profound inquiries reflect the pursuit to understand not just the 'what' but the 'why' underlying the things we think about.

At the age of 17, I wrote an essay in high school questioning reality. I proposed that every particular perspective on reality, unique yet incomplete, could combine to form a broader understanding. Using the example of a rose, seeing it through the eyes of a mathematician, an artist, an engineer, a philosopher, and an architect could offer a more comprehensive view. This theory has guided my life's path, reflecting on the lifelong journey to comprehend and combine various perspectives for a more holistic understanding.

Conclusion

My life's journey, from early curiosity to a lifelong quest for understanding, reflects the interconnectedness of science, philosophy, and the human quest for knowledge. The nature of reality remains a deep and ongoing exploration, driven by the continuous questioning and abstract thinking that began in my youth. This journey has proven invaluable, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of our universe.