Set Theory & Consciousness Video Book
ABSTRACTS
Prof. Henk Barendregt
Emeritus Professor, Radboud University, Netherlands
Title: Infinity in Mathematics and Meditation
Abstract: Thinking about some mathematical concepts may create fear in lay
people. Even C. F. Gauss, the prince of mathematics, mentioned the
experience of ‘horror’, when thinking about infinity. On the other
hand, practitioners of meditation mention that a first contact with
unbounded consciousness causes feelings of awe and nausea. The talk
will propose a view, where these reactions come from.
Prof. Sandeep Kumar
IIT BHU, Varanasi, India
Title: Mathematical Model and Vedanta Logic
Abstract: Functioning of the Universe is very complex which we often represent with the help of simple models. Any model representing functioning of the Universe must be perfectly logical. Every human follows some model for progress and guidance in life. All religions and Dharma provide models for the Universe. A model close to the real Universe will be very useful. Initially we understand simple models but our attempts should be to make our model more accurate.Various logical/ mathematical models on the creation of the Universe are proposed by believers as well as nonbelievers of the God. Axioms based field/ space can lead to a good models in higher dimension where it is not possible to verify results with the help of any experiment. In this presentation, it is intended to show some great similarity between Vedanta and many mathematical concepts of higher dimensions. It is an attempt of continuous efforts to develop a good model.
Prof. Manohar Lal Kaushik
IGNOU, New Delhi, India
Title: Set Theory & Concept of Karma
Abstract:
The discussion here of the topic is based on the Logicism view of Philosophy of Mathematics, according to which
Mathematics = Logic + Set Theory
Hence, concept of Karma, rather concepts of Karma—as Karma is conceived differently by various Indic religions, and differently even within same religion by different sects—are proposed to be viewed, and analysed from (general) Mathematical perspective.
In this respect, Mathematical frameworks of Karma are proposed at two levels:
(i) Meta-Karma concerned mainly about evolution of the related concepts since the pre-Vedic times to the modern ones, and in different Indic religions. For example, in the Rigveda Karma, as action and its consequences, had limited meaning of ritual action. It is discussed as a sort of mathematical relation, as a subset of the cross-product of set of time-periods and set of Indic religions.
(ii) Karma: Here, concepts/ connotations of Karma, their evolutions, types, principles, theories, paradoxes are attempted to be explained using Set Theory & Logic, Probability Theory & Statistics, Fractals & Network Theory, Chaos Theory, and Complexity Theory.
Having been throughout working in the domains of Formal Sciences & sometimes in Natural Sciences, the topic is quite challenging for me. Hence, the discussion is not a sort of claim of finality or final judgment on the topic. The purpose is to be a part of a discourse on the topic, which is quite relevant for current times, about which the Science-fiction writer Isaac Asimov says “The saddest aspect of life right now is that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom.”
The following literature plays significant role in preparing this presentation:
(the link for the literature: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1GtHYPVvbHrXxM8K0CSAe-TpyZqWAlp9c?usp=sharing)
1. Mathematical Sciences in the Karma Antiquity by Laxmi Chandra Jain, published by Gulab Rani Karma Science Museum, Jabalpur, and Shri Brahmi Sundari Prasthashram Samiti, Jabalpur (M.P.), 2008
2. Mathematics and Religion: Our Languages of Sign and Symbol by Javier Leach; Templeton Press. 2010
3. KARMA: what it is, what it isn’t, why it matters, by Traleg Kyabgon; Shambhala, Boston & London, 2015
4. The Naturalistic Principle of Karma Author(s): Karl H. Potter Source: Philosophy East and West, Vol. 14, No. 1 (Apr., 1964), pp. 39-49
5. Spirituality in Mathematics, Volker Kessler, Journal for the Study of Spirituality 2019, Vol. 9, No. 1, 49–61 https://doi.org/10.1080/20440243.2019.1581384
Prof. Om Prakash
IIT Patna, India
Title: Emergence of basic set theory from the science of consciousness
Abstract: The fundamentals of set theory are the backbone of modern development in mathematical sciences. This talk presents an overview of the basics of set theory by connecting foundational connectivities with spirituality and consciousness. Towards this, rst, we would recall certain shlokas and mantras of the Puranas and Vedang-shashras established by ancient sages and also recall the history of set theory. Then, by showing the emergence of the set theoretic concept, we cite some paradoxes which challenged the consistency of modern mathematics. To address these problems, we again recall some axiomatic systems as a partial solution to the classical paradoxes. Finally, we try to connect these set-theoretic concepts with spirituality for its complete solution.
Keywords:
Cantor’s set theory, Paradoxes, Axiomatic systems.
References:
[1] G. Cantor, Contributions to the Founding of the Theory of Transnite Numbers, Dover Publications, (1955).
[2] A. A. Fraenkel, Y. Bar-Hillel, A. Levy, Foundations of Set Theory, North-Holland, (1973).
[3] B. Russell, The Principles of Mathematics, Cambridge University Press, (1903).
[4] T. Jech, Set Theory: The Third Millennium Edition, revised and expanded, Springer, (2003).
[5] Sri Brahma Samhita, Shreemad Bhagwat Gita and Shree Durga Saptashati.
Vasudeva Rao
President, Bhaktivedanta Institute Kolkata
Title: Dr TD Singh’s Equation of life: A computer simulation model of consciousness based on Sāṅkhya
Abstract: Life = Physical Body (C, H, O, Genome, Space, time) +
Mind, Intelligence, False Ego (Psychic Body) + Soul (Spiriton)
In this talk we use the computer game (simulation) as an example to explain the functions of the subtle or psychic elements of sāṅkhya. Sāṅkhya is an Indian school of philosophy which explain the reality through systematic enumeration of fundamental entities (particles or forces) using the reasoning and subjective and objective experience of reality. Two of the relevant meanings of sāṅkhya are to ‘enumerate or count’ and ‘reason.’ The detailed sāṅkhya is given by Lord Kapila in the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, the natural commentary on the Vedānta-sūtra by the author himself. A little simplified sāṅkhya is presented in the Bhagavad-gītā. sāṅkhya divides reality into two fundamentally different and irreducible categories, consciousness (kṣetra-jña, or puruṣa) and matter (kṣetra, or prakṛti). Souls and God come in the category of former and the remaining elements in the later. In the prakṛti category there are again two categories, gross and subtle elements. In the gross category are pancha Mahābhūtas, earth (bhūmiḥ), water (āpaḥ), fire (analaḥ), air (vāyuḥ), and space (kham). These elements are more fundamental than the earth, water etc. that are visible to us. In the subtle category are mind (manaḥ), intelligence (buddhiḥ), and ego (ahaṅkāraḥ). Time is considered as an important mixing element. For the scientific mind, gross elements and their functions are easier to comprehend.
However, subtle elements and their functions are comparatively little difficult to understand. Mind-matter problem is still an unresolved issue and many terms like mind and consciousness are used synonymously in modern science. These subtle elements act as a glue between the consciousness and the body of living entities to allow the consciousness to bind to a particular body. When we play a computer game, the same elements play a role to absorb ourselves in the game-world and bind to game character. We also reflect upon the space and time. We use some examples of modern science and computer game example to draw parallels to understand the applications and limits of reason and logic to spiritual realities.
References:
[1] Singh, T. D. Consciousness: Scientific and Vedantic Perspectives. Bhaktivedanta Institute, Kolkata, 2012.
[2] Singh, T. D. Life And Origin Of The Universe – Vedanta & Science Series, Bhaktivedanta Institute, Kolkata, 2004.
[3] His Divine Grace Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, A. C. Srimad-Bhagavatam, Third Canto, Chapter 26, The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, 2012.
Varun Agarwal
Director, Bhaktivedanta Institute Kolkata
Title: Mathematics and Spirituality: An Overview
Abstract: Mathematics is an unbelievable gift for all of us, as in the words of renowned physicist Eugene Wigner, “The Unreasonable Effectiveness of Mathematics in the Natural Sciences”. From physics and biological systems to unknown areas of cosmos, mathematics allows us to penetrate where our instruments cannot reach. Can it also help us to provide insights about what is mentioned in our age-old spiritual traditions? For example, can the preciseness of mathematics help us to present more clearly foundational questions of life, such as the core of all questions – Is there a God? What about Consciousness, Soul and Karma – can they be explored in the light of mathematical concepts we have today?
Interestingly, and which is lesser known, that besides algebras, curves and planes, many renowned mathematicians worked seriously from centuries about these foundational questions talked in spirituality besides their regular mathematical contributions – whether God exists and how can this be logically and mathematically established. From Euler, Cantor and Gauss to Boole, Pascal, Ramanujan and many other mathematicians, there were important works penned by them, ranging from their precise logical thoughts to even mathematical analysis and ‘proofs’ for deeply exploring these questions. The present lecture will attempt to summarise some of these works and share the relevant references for furthering exploring the foundations of mathematics and its connection with age-old spiritual wisdom.
Rajesh Pandit
Quality Analyst, Straive; Alumnus IISER Kolkata
Title: Beyond Numbers: The Spiritual Significance of Zero, One, and Infinity
Abstract: Numbers are more than mathematical tools; they carry deep philosophical and spiritual meaning. This presentation explores the profound significance of zero (śūnya), one (ekatva), and infinity (ananta) as understood in ancient Indian wisdom and their relevance today. We begin with the origin of zero in India—not only as a numerical invention but as a symbol of emptiness and the source of creation. We then contrast linear and cyclic worldviews of time, showing how science and spirituality interpret these concepts differently. The talk highlights the spiritual perspectives where zero signifies nothingness, one symbolizes unity, and infinity represents boundlessness and divinity. Their interrelationship reveals a continuum—from emptiness to limitless expansion—mirroring the soul’s journey from origin to eternity. By connecting mathematics, philosophy, and spirituality, this presentation offers a holistic lens to bridge the tangible and intangible dimensions of existence.
References:
[1] Sharda S. Nandram, Puneet K. Bindlish, Ankur Joshi, Vishwanath Dhital, Zero: An Integrative Spiritual Perspective with One and Infinity, DOI:10.1163/9789004691568_027
[2] Article, https://rajeevgangula.medium.com/zero-infinity-and-spirituality-93ca6574f2df
Tanushri
Ph.D. Scholar, NIT Patna
Title: Mathematics is the Language of God
Abstract: Mathematics is often called the universal language, but it is also the language of the divine. Across civilisations, mathematical ideas such as zero and infinity, symmetry and geometry, or the harmony of proportions have been seen as reflections of higher truths.
Nature itself reveals this sacred code, such as the spiral of a seashell follows the
Fibonacci sequence, the sunflower arranges its seeds with mathematical precision, and galaxies swirl in geometric patterns. Spiritual traditions, too, echo these concepts like shunya as emptiness full of potential, ananta as the infinite, and the circle as a symbol of eternity. Dualities in mathematics mirror dualities in life, while abstraction in equations reflects the unseen yet deeply real presence of the divine.
Mathematics is not merely a tool of science, but a bridge between human understanding and cosmic order that is the very script in which God has written the universe.