Integral theory’s foundational thinker, Aurobindo Ghose

Of Syntheses and Surprises: Toward a Critical Integral Theory Daniel Gustav Anderson The Integral Review home current issue

Abstract: The central concern of this article is how the search for formal structures with universal values functions ideologically, addressing Zizek’s claim that East-West syntheses may represent the dominant ideology par excellance of global capitalism. To this end, the article offers a Foucaultian genealogy of Integral theory, tracing its origins to the cultural and subjective contingencies of the British Empire, primarily in the work of Integral theory’s foundational thinker, Aurobindo Ghose.

The article poses a primary critique of synthesis and evolution as mythological keys to Ultimate Reality which suggests that Zizek’s critique may have some validity, and offers the potential for a “critical integral theory” as an alternative. Situated in Deleuze and Guattari’s concept of becoming, and represented in the ideas and practices of a constellation of thinkers inclusive of Gurdjieff, Benjamin, and Trungpa, the article’s view of integration supports radical democracy as presented in the writings of Laclau and Mouffe as a model outcome for social and personal transformational practices.

Keywords: ideology, integral, critical, becoming-other, transformational practice, Aurobindo, Deleuze, Guattari, Ziporyn, Tarthang, Trungpa, Benjamin, Gurdjieff, Laclau, Mouffe, Zizek.

by Rich on Sun 10 Dec 2006 07:59 PM PST Permanent Link In the article the author Daniel Gustav Anderson asserts that Integral theory following its founder Sri Aurobindo is founded on bald racism! Of course that called for an interrogation of his text which follows below. I want to thank Deb for feedback and well taken suggestions. I would also urge everyone to check out the article itself and The Integral Review.

alan kazlev: I glanced at their site, and it does seem worthy and sincere, but i agree with Ray on it being a bit...
alan kazlev: James says: Noticed also from the wiki pages behind the scenes that Daniel Gustav Anderson is working on...
ray harris: To be honest I find ARINA to be a bit dry, earnest and technical. It's a style thing. I also have a...
Edward Berge: Thanks for the lead to Anderson. Here's a man after my own pomo heart by applying pomo to an integral...
Edward Berge: Keep in mind an alternative integral organization already exists and is producing work, ARINA and its...