The Resurgence of the Occult and the Metaphysics of Quality: A Scientific Shaman's Investigation

Introduction

In recent years, there has been a noticeable resurgence of interest in occult practices, ranging from Astrology to witchcraft and divination. This renewed fascination, whether seen as a retreat from rational thinking or as a deep spiritual awakening, reflects a broader societal shift that has been unfolding since the late 1960s. As people increasingly question modern values and seek meaning in a materialistic world, the occult offers an alternative path. This trend can be better understood through the lens of Robert Pirsig's Metaphysics of Quality (MOQ), a philosophical framework that provides insights into why the occult is appealing and how it connects to our understanding of "Quality."

The Occult as a Response to Modern Society

The appeal of the occult lies in its promise of personal significance and community, especially in a world where life often feels impersonal and driven by bureaucracy and commercial interests. Practices like Astrology, witchcraft, and various forms of divination provide a sense of connection and purpose that modern rationalism often lacks. For many, the occult is a way to explore personal and spiritual fulfillment in an increasingly alienating world.

From my perspective as a shaman and an autistic observer of contemporary culture, the modern resurgence of paganism and other occult practices seems to offer an alternative to the perceived materialism and detachment of today’s society. Traditions like Wicca emphasize personal empowerment, a deep connection to nature, and a strong sense of community. These practices often emerge as a response to the disillusionment with mainstream religions and the impersonal nature of modern technology. For those seeking a more meaningful and connected existence, these pagan practices provide a framework that resonates in a rapidly changing world. An interesting short documentary on this by filmmaker Iqbal Ahmed can be viewed here [link].

Understanding the Metaphysics of Quality

Robert Pirsig’s Metaphysics of Quality (MOQ) offers a useful lens for understanding why the occult resonates with so many people today. In his book Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, Pirsig introduced the concept of "Quality," a fundamental yet elusive aspect of experience that defies rigid definitions. He expanded on this idea in his later work, Lila: An Inquiry into Morals, where he proposed that Quality exists in two forms: static and dynamic.

• Static Quality refers to the stable patterns that provide order and structure in our lives, such as cultural traditions and social norms.
• Dynamic Quality represents innovation, change, and personal transformation, often challenging established norms and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Pirsig argues that both forms of Quality are essential for a well-functioning society. Static Quality maintains stability and continuity, while Dynamic Quality drives growth and change. The occult often embodies Dynamic Quality by offering new ways of thinking and engaging with the world, challenging the status quo.

The Role of Dynamic Quality in the Occult

The resurgence of the occult can be seen as an expression of Dynamic Quality. Occult practices often disrupt traditional norms and offer fresh perspectives, which can be both liberating and unsettling. This dynamic aspect of the occult mirrors broader societal trends where established values and norms are being questioned and redefined.

At the same time, the static elements of occult traditions—such as established rituals and practices—provide a sense of stability and continuity. This balance between dynamic innovation and static structure reflects Pirsig's view that both are necessary for a society to thrive.

Science and the Occult: Exploring the Intersection

One reason for the occult’s resurgence is the belief that science alone cannot address deeper human needs. Many people are turning to divinatory practices like the I Ching, Tarot or the Elder Futhark runes for a sense of control and solace, seeking connections that go beyond the realm of modern technology. This search for meaning highlights a growing sense of disconnection from the technologies that often feel alienating and impersonal.

Historically, the lines between "occult" (meaning hidden knowledge) and "science" (organized knowledge) have been blurred. Topics such as ESP (extrasensory perception) and psychokinesis are increasingly attracting scientific interest, further blurring the distinctions between scientific inquiry and mystical practices. This intersection points to a broader curiosity about the limits of human understanding and the potential for discovering new forms of knowledge.

Moreover, the occult offers a sense of community and personal significance that contrasts sharply with the impersonal and commercialized nature of modern society. This mirrors the motivations of historical movements, such as the radical activists and hippies of the 1960s, who sought meaningful connections and communal purposes through alternative practices. The modern resurgence of the occult can thus be seen as part of a broader quest for community and personal fulfillment in a world that often prioritizes efficiency and individualism over collective well-being.

Conclusion

The resurgence of the occult, when viewed through the insights provided by Robert Pirsig's Metaphysics of Quality, offers a compelling way to understand current shifts in societal values and practices. As people continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, the interplay between static and dynamic qualities provides a useful framework for exploring how individuals seek meaning, community, and personal fulfillment in an increasingly materialistic world.

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Recommended Works:
▶ Pirsig, R. M. (2022). Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance: An inquiry into values (46th ed.). Harper Perennial Modern Classics.

▶ Pirsig, R. M. (2006). Lila: An inquiry into morals. Bantam.

▶ Torenberg, E. (2022, December 21). Lila: An inquiry into morals by Robert Pirsig [Review of the book Lila: An inquiry into morals by R. Pirsig]. Substack [link]

▶ Greer, J. M. (2017). The Occult Book: A Chronological Journey from Alchemy to Wicca. Union Square & Co.
This book provides a comprehensive historical overview of the occult revival, exploring its roots in various traditions and its evolving forms.

▶ Hutton, R. (2015). Contemporary religion in historical perspective: The case of modern paganism. Alternative Spirituality and Religion Review, 6(2), 197-210.
This article explores how historical scholarship shaped modern Wicca and its complex relationship with academia and public perception. [link]

▶ Sagan, C. (2006). The Varieties of Scientific Experience: A Personal View of the Search for God (A. Druyan, Ed.). Penguin Press.
Sagan's book explores the relationship between science and spirituality, highlighting the potential for new scientific discoveries to challenge traditional views.