by Frederick Shaddock, M.A.
Maharishi Vedic Science (MVS) represents a unique synthesis of ancient wisdom and modern scientific methodology developed by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (1918–2008). This discipline positions consciousness as the fundamental ground of all existence, offering both a theoretical framework and practical technologies (notably the Transcendental Meditation technique) for directly experiencing and studying this foundational reality. For academics unfamiliar with meditation practices, MVS merits serious consideration as it bridges the gap in Western thought between subjective experience and objective observation (Shear & Jevning, 1999).
The growing recognition of consciousness studies in mainstream academia (also know as the "hard problem of consciousness" articulated by David Chalmers, (1995) makes this an opportune moment to examine MVS's contributions. This essay will: (1) elucidate the core principles of MVS with special attention to its empirical foundations, (2) demonstrate its interdisciplinary applications, and (3) present the unique value of doctoral study in this field through both scholarly and personal lenses. As a prospective PhD candidate with four decades of engagement in Consciousness Based Education (CBE) and research, I bring both academic qualifications and practical experience to this exploration.
Consciousness as the Unified Field of Natural Law
The central theoretical innovation of MVS is its proposition that consciousness constitutes a unified field underlying all manifest phenomena. Maharishi articulated this concept with striking parallels to contemporary physics: "The unified field is that self-interacting dynamics of pure consciousness which gives rise to the infinite diversity of creation while maintaining perfect orderliness" (Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, 1994, p. 87). This perspective finds resonance with modern unified field theories in quantum physics (Hagelin, 1987), while adding the crucial dimension of subjective experience.
The TM technique serves as the primary experimental methodology in MVS, allowing direct experience of what Maharishi termed "pure consciousness" - a state of "restful alertness" characterized by EEG measurements showing high alpha wave coherence (Travis & Wallace, 1997). This physiological signature distinguishes it from ordinary relaxation states and provides an empirical basis for MVS's claims about the universality of conscious experience.
Vedic Literature as a Science of Consciousness
MVS presents the Vedic texts as a precise mathematical-like code describing the self-interacting dynamics of consciousness. As Maharishi explained: "The Veda is the structured embodiment of the laws of nature in the form of sound" (Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, 1996, p. 112). This interpretation transforms traditional scriptural study into a rigorous scientific inquiry. For instance, research on the phonetic qualities of Vedic recitation has demonstrated measurable effects on brain functioning (Nader, 2000).
The 40 aspects of Vedic literature identified in MVS correspond to specific values within human physiology and the larger cosmos. This "human physiology as the expression of Veda and Vedic literature" hypothesis has been explored through detailed anatomical mapping (Nader, 2000), suggesting a remarkable isomorphism between the microcosm of human biology and the macrocosm of universal structures.
The Maharishi Effect: From Individual to Collective Consciousness
Perhaps the most socially significant contribution of MVS is the predicted and repeatedly demonstrated "Maharishi Effect" - the phenomenon whereby coherent collective consciousness generated by group TM practice produces measurable reductions in social stress indicators. A meta-analysis of 50 studies (Dillbeck et al., 1988) found consistent decreases in crime rates, improved quality of life indices, and reduced international conflict when the square root of 1% of a population practiced TM together.
This research has profound implications for social policy and conflict resolution. As Maharishi stated: "When the collective consciousness is nourished through the practice of Transcendental Meditation, the whole population rises to enjoy greater harmony, peace, and progress in all areas of life" (Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, 1978, p. 156).
Advancing Consciousness Research Methodologies
Doctoral research in MVS enables the development of innovative methodologies for studying consciousness. My own work dating back to my 1980 MA thesis on "Critical Thinking in Students Practicing TM" (cited in MIU's accreditation application) demonstrated early evidence of TM's cognitive benefits. Contemporary PhD research could employ advanced neuroimaging technologies (fMRI, qEEG) to investigate higher states of consciousness like "cosmic consciousness" - the purported permanent establishment of pure awareness alongside waking, dreaming and sleeping states.
The unique research environment at MIU, with its large group of TM practitioners in the Golden Dome (https://goldendome.org), provides unprecedented opportunities for studying group consciousness effects. My proximity to this resource allows daily participation while conducting doctoral research.
Interdisciplinary Applications
Education
The demonstrated benefits of Consciousness-Based education (Nidich et al., 2011) show improved academic performance, creativity and emotional intelligence. My proposed doctoral work could expand this research while developing innovative curricula like a "Sustainable Digital Currency" course integrating Vedic principles with blockchain technology. I have begun making Main Points and SCI Points, as taught to me by Dr. Susan Levin Dillbeck in the Master of Arts in Education program, for which I received a 3.8 GPA in 1981, qualifying for the President's Honor Roll, awarded by Dr. Bevan Morris.
For example: "The block chain and transaction log is replicated on thousands of
computers, which provide a stable foundation for the digital currency network."
This exemplifies the SCI principle of Stability. Other points exemplify
Adaptability, Integration, Purification, and Growth.
http://DigitalCoinAssociation.org/SCI
Economics
Maharishi's vision of the "Raam" as the currency of the Global Country of World Peace ("the fondest currency in the world" - Maharishi, 2003) inspires my development of cryptocurrency prototypes (https://www.raamcoin.com). Doctoral study would deepen my understanding of the Vedic principles that could inform ethical monetary systems.
Health and Aging
Research on TM's anti-aging effects (Wallace et al., 1982) supports my personal experience maintaining physical and cognitive vitality at 70. PhD research could investigate mechanisms whereby consciousness-based practices slow biological aging.
Personal and Professional Transformation
The doctoral journey in MVS represents more than academic achievement. As Maharishi noted: "True education is that which nourishes the knower while providing knowledge" (Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, 1972, p. 45). My four-decade engagement with TM and SCI (Science of Creative Intelligence) positions me to contribute meaningfully while continuing my own growth toward higher states of consciousness.
My work in transformational leadership (https://www.shaddockresearch.org) and cryptocurrency education (https://www.a-dc.org) will be enhanced by doctoral credentials, enabling publication in peer-reviewed journals and broader dissemination of Vedic knowledge.
Maharishi Vedic Science offers a comprehensive framework for understanding and developing consciousness with profound implications across disciplines. Doctoral study at MIU provides the ideal environment to: (1) advance rigorous research on consciousness, (2) develop practical applications for societal problems, and (3) realize human potential more fully. My unique background in education, technology and leadership positions me to contribute significantly to this field while fulfilling Maharishi's vision of creating "Heaven on Earth" through the development of consciousness.
Chalmers, David (1995). Facing up to the problem of consciousness. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 2(3), 200-219. https://consc.net/papers/facing.html
Dillbeck, Michael C., Banus, C.B., Polanzi, C., & Landrith III, G.S. (1988). Test of a field model of consciousness and social change. Journal of Mind and Behavior, 9(4), 457-486. https://www.jstor.org/stable/43853407
Hagelin, John .S. (1987). Is consciousness the unified field? A field theorist's perspective. Modern Science and Vedic Science, 1(1), 29-87. https://www.mum.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/hagelin_consciousness_unified_field.pdf
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. (1972). Science of Being and Art of Living. Meridian. https://www.amazon.com/Science-Being-Art-Living-Maharishi/dp/0452282667
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. (1978). Enlightenment to every individual, invincibility to every nation. MIU Press.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. (1994). Vedic knowledge for everyone. Maharishi Vedic University Press.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. (1996). Maharishi's absolute theory of government. Maharishi University of Management Press.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. (2003). Public address on Raam currency. Global Country of World Peace. https://www.a-dc.org/video/MaharishiRaam
Nader, Tony. (2000). Human physiology: Expression of Veda and Vedic literature. Maharishi Vedic University. https://www.amazon.com/Human-Physiology-Expression-Vedic-Literature/dp/8175230170
Nidich, Sanford, Mjasiri, S., Nidich, R., et al. (2011). Academic achievement and transcendental meditation. Education, 131(3), 556-564. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286920636
Shear, Jonathan, & Jevning, R. (1999). Pure consciousness. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 6(2-3), 189-209. https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/imp/jcs/1999/00000006/f0020002/932
Travis, Fred, & Wallace, R.K. (1997). EEG patterns during Transcendental Meditation. International Journal of Neuroscience, 89(1-2), 41-55. https://doi.org/10.3109/00207459708988468
Wallace, Robert .K., Dillbeck, Michael C., Jacobe, E., & Harrington, B. (1982). The effects of TM on aging. International Journal of Neuroscience, 16(1), 53-58. https://doi.org/10.3109/00207458209147602
The purpose of this essay is for you to demonstrate your holistic and logical
thinking. Please discuss this question:
Explain in language suitable for a non-meditating academic your understanding of
Maharishi Vedic Science, grounded in Maharishi’s books, and the value of
studying it at a doctoral level.
Your essay should: