Plumbing the depths: Research as a developmental tool

How does it add value for humans? Is research a tool for liberation, enslavement or both? Is research reinforcing world-views that no longer serve humanity, or is it providing the foundation for paradigm shifts towards new and more appropriate world-views?In this paper, research is related to emerging concepts of human consciousness in order to address these and similar questions. It argues that much of the information that emerges from research endeavours is merely the raw material for exploration of, and reflection at deeper and deeper levels of consciousness by the researchers and by their followers. It is this deeper exploration of consciousness that promises the developmental leap for humanity that is essential if contemporary global problems such as the global financial crisis, climate change, terrorism and imbalances of wealth are to be resolved successfully.Research is a vital part of modern (or should that be post-modern) existence. We rely on research in order to decide whether to take an umbrella when we go out, marketers rely on research in order to decide whether to or how to launch a new product, governments rely on research in order to decide to change their leadership, call an election, introduce a new policy or axe an unpopular one.There can be little doubt that we live in an era where information, an important product of research, is regarded as central to human existence. Governments and media outlets across the Western world espouse open government and freedom of information. The roller-coaster debate regarding climate change emphasises the importance of evidence as a vital component in the process of collective decision-making. However, the WikiLeaks phenomenon has highlighted the reality that there is some reluctance for information to be freely available to all and sundry. At the same time, many people report information overload as a pressing problem.In this context, it is timely to reflect on the nature and value of research. Key questions that need to be addressed include: What is research? How is it related to information, knowledge and wisdom? To what extent is research an essential component of learning and development?