A Spiritual and Comprehensive 8-R Approach to the Shadow of Whiteness: Realization, Respect, Reconciliation, Responsibility, Reparations, Resilience, Resolve, and Reimagination

This book uniquely brings together nondual spirituality, integral science, and democracy/social justice to address existential questions and the current polycrises. It is a comprehensive, multidisciplinary, and evolutionary examination of the dual nature of Homo sapiens as both human (selfish, fearful, destructive, and finite) and divine (altruistic, loving, creative, and infinite). The focus is on ontological whiteness (white supremacy/privilege) as emblematic of the dark side. It is the preeminent collective shadow as described in nondual spirituality and Jungian psychology. Shadows are that part of ourselves that we detest, hide, deny, and project. They are to be brought to the divine light for healing and resolution. Thus, the narrative changes: Whiteness is no longer the standard; it is seen as toxic to everyone. All major US institutions (e.g., capitalism, militarism, and imperialism) are dominator hierarchies that divide people. True democracy is a political and psycho/social/spiritual counter to these institutions. The 8-R Approach embodies the theories, principles, and practices of true democracy. It holds these institutions responsible and accountable without condemnation and reconciles the collective shadow of whiteness via a revolution of love. The book brings to the fore the timely and timeless truths of the ancient African, Eastern, and Aramaic spiritual, mystical, and wisdom traditions that still hold today.