The Dawn of Mind: How Matter Became Conscious and Alive

A compelling, inventive, and revolutionary examination of consciousness that holds the key to transforming our relationship with nature

In Dawn of Mind, Dr. James Cooke explores the profound mystery at the core of human experience: consciousness. Integrating the latest scientific advancements with deep meditative insights and the potential of psychedelic therapy, Cooke challenges long-held views about the self and consciousness. From a transformational personal experience to rigorous scientific analysis, he argues that our individual sense of self is an illusion--a survival mechanism--while proposing that consciousness is a universal feature of all life. This groundbreaking perspective not only questions humanity's assumed dominance over nature but also highlights the critical need to bridge the divide between ourselves and the natural environment amid escalating ecological crises.

Cooke's work is both a visionary theoretical framework and a practical guide to understanding our interconnected existence.

Dr. James Cooke holds three degrees from Oxford University: a First-class honors Bachelor's degree in experimental psychology, a Master of Science in neuroscience, and a PhD in neuroscience. He has conducted research into the brain basis of consciousness for over a decade at institutions such as Oxford University, University of California, Berkeley, University College London, Trinity College Dublin, and Riken Brain Sciences Institute in Tokyo. While at the University of London, he achieved the theoretical breakthrough that forms the basis of this book, first publishing his findings in The Journal of Consciousness Studies and later in Entropy. Outside of academia, he has launched the Innerspace Institute, a platform for promoting understanding around science, secular spirituality, and social change. He also works as a science writer and consultant to psychedelic medicine companies such as Nushama Psychedelic Wellness Center in New York City, Beckley Retreats, and Delic Corp. In early 2022, He left academia to focus on public communication full time.