Appendix: Terence McKenna Timewave Zero + I-Ching
Last updated
Last updated
Terence McKenna, a philosopher and ethnobotanist, developed a complex theory called "Timewave Zero" that connected the I Ching, fractal mathematics, and his own interpretations of historical and future events. This theory led him to predict a significant event on December 21, 2012, which coincided with the end of a cycle in the Mayan Long Count calendar. Here's an elaboration on his ideas:
Timewave Zero Theory:
McKenna believed he discovered a pattern in the I Ching that, when graphed, resembled the ebb and flow of novelty in the universe.
He used software to extend this pattern into the future, identifying points of increased novelty or complexity. https://twz-doc.noonian.io/
Connection to the Mayan Calendar:
The end date of McKenna's Timewave Zero coincidentally aligned with the end of the 13th b'ak'tun in the Mayan Long Count calendar.
This date was December 21, 2012.
Interpretation of "The End":
McKenna didn't necessarily predict the physical end of the world, but rather a moment of extreme novelty or transformation in human consciousness.
He described it as a "concrescence," a coming together of everything, or a fundamental shift in the nature of reality.
Singularity Concept:
McKenna's ideas somewhat parallel the concept of technological singularity, where he envisioned a point of rapid, unprecedented change.
Psychedelic Influence:
His theories were heavily influenced by his experiences with psychedelic substances, particularly psilocybin mushrooms.
Criticism and Skepticism:
Many scientists and scholars criticized McKenna's theory as pseudoscience, noting that it lacked empirical evidence and relied heavily on subjective interpretation.
Cultural Impact:
Despite its lack of scientific basis, McKenna's ideas gained a following in certain counterculture circles and contributed to the 2012 phenomenon in popular culture.
Post-2012 Perspective:
After 2012 passed without any world-changing event, some followers of McKenna's ideas reinterpreted his predictions or sought new end dates.
It's important to note that while McKenna's ideas were creative and captured the imagination of many, they are not considered scientifically valid. His work is often viewed more as philosophical speculation or creative theory rather than predictive science. The alignment with the Mayan calendar end date was largely coincidental and based on McKenna's personal interpretations rather than on Mayan beliefs or astronomical events.
