“We must expand our perspectives in order to break through societal stagnation,” Botelho writes in this call to visionary action. Drawing from his study of quantum mechanics and the demonstrated fact that the human mind, through observation, “compels electrons to become real things, controlling their characteristics and behavior,” Botelho urges scientists and thought leaders to acknowledge that “experiment after experiment proves that reality is a product of Mind.” Botelho calls this the “primacy of Consciousness” (and, by extension, Spirit) and posits that better understanding it will lead to better understanding our existence and universe—and help usher in a future “full of purpose and creativity.” Botelho argues not just that quantum research demonstrates that consciousness preceded the Big Bang itself, but that to refuse to face this is tantamount to insisting that the world is flat.

With crisp, clear prose and the patience to build and guide readers through an argument, Botelho decries how scientific materialism has mostly limited scientific inquiry to the physical realm, rather than what he calls the “endless opportunity” of the immaterial realm—the realm of mind and spirit. This is heady material, invitingly written, with Botelho taking care to introduce the experiments and discoveries he discusses in a manner that quantum novices can follow. He’s attentive to what context is crucial for comprehension, and as he presented consciousness as the “organizer of existence” he’s generous in presenting the mind-blowing implications, reconciling physics, metaphysics, and varied religious possibilities as his arguments build, naturally, to consider the mind of a Creator.

Botelho views dedicated research into the role of consciousness in shaping existence as something like the dawning of a new enlightenment, but recognizes the reasons such research is rare. “Society rewards those who practice reality instead of exploring it,” he notes, and even readers not ready to join in celebrating the mind of God as an “immeasurable infinity” will likely be persuaded that the tantalizing role of consciousness in creation deserves further investigation.

Takeaway: This searching treatise, steeped in quantum mechanics, calls upon scientists to examine the role that mind and spirit play in creating reality

Great for fans of: Paul Levy’s Quantum Revelation, Nancy Patterson’s Quantum Physics and the Power of the Mind.

Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A