The Science Delusion

This monograph challenges the materialist worldview that dominates contemporary science, arguing that scientific orthodoxy has become a belief system that constrains inquiry rather than enabling it. Sheldrake identifies ten core assumptions of modern science, which he terms "dogmas," and subjects each to critical examination through both philosophical analysis and empirical evidence. These include the beliefs that nature is mechanical, matter is unconscious, the laws of nature are fixed, the total amount of matter and energy is constant, nature is purposeless, biological inheritance is solely material, minds are confined to brains, memories are stored as material traces, and psychic phenomena are impossible.

The work engages significantly with design arguments by proposing that nature exhibits inherent creativity and purpose that mechanistic explanations cannot adequately address. Sheldrake introduces his concept of "morphic resonance," suggesting that natural systems inherit a collective memory from previous similar systems, challenging conventional notions of fixed natural laws. This proposal implies a universe with inherent memory and habit-forming tendencies rather than eternal mathematical laws, suggesting purposiveness without requiring traditional theistic design.

Regarding consciousness, Sheldrake critiques the "hard problem" from a novel angle, proposing that consciousness might be a fundamental feature of nature rather than an emergent property of complex matter. He examines phenomena typically dismissed by mainstream science, including telepathy, precognition, and the sense of being stared at, arguing that their categorical rejection stems from dogmatic adherence to materialist assumptions rather than genuine scientific investigation.

Methodologically, the work combines philosophy of science with selective engagement with empirical research, particularly in biology and psychology. Sheldrake draws on Thomas Kuhn's paradigm theory while pushing beyond it, suggesting that science requires not just paradigm shifts but a fundamental questioning of its metaphysical foundations. His approach resonates with process philosophy and panpsychism while maintaining dialogue with conventional scientific discourse.

The monograph's significance lies in its systematic challenge to scientific materialism from within scientific discourse itself. Rather than defending traditional theism or embracing anti-scientific positions, Sheldrake advocates for expanded scientific inquiry that remains empirical while questioning materialist constraints. This positions the work as a significant contribution to post-materialist approaches to science and consciousness, relevant to contemporary debates about the compatibility of spiritual and scientific worldviews.