The investigation of the various phases of awareness – or consciousness – represents a profound intellectual pursuit that has been undertaken by a multitude of thinkers across the span of human history and in a kaleidoscope of cultural contexts. The framework of seven levels provides a structured way to comprehend the evolution of human consciousness, from instinctual responses to spiritual enlightenment. Each level represents a distinct stage in the development of awareness, reflecting both individual and collective growth.
1. INSTINCTUAL
At the instinctual level, consciousness is primarily driven by basic survival instincts. This level is characterized by primal urges such as hunger, thirst, and reproduction. Sigmund Freud’s theory of the id aligns with this level, where he posited that the id operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification of desires. As Aristotle noted, “Nature does nothing in vain”, suggesting that these instincts serve essential functions for survival.
2. MATERIAL
The material level of consciousness focuses on the physical world and tangible possessions. Here, individuals are concerned with material wealth and physical comfort. Karl Marx critiqued this level through his analysis of capitalism, arguing that material conditions shape human consciousness: “It is not the consciousness of men that determines their existence, but their social existence that determines their consciousness”. This perspective emphasizes how our environment influences our thoughts and behaviors.
3. SENSORIAL (BODILY)
At this level, awareness expands to include sensory experiences—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. The body becomes a primary source of knowledge about the world. In Eastern philosophy, particularly in Buddhism, mindfulness practices emphasize being present in bodily sensations as a pathway to deeper awareness. As Thich Nhat Hanh stated, “Feelings come and go like clouds in a windy sky. Conscious breathing is my anchor”. This highlights how sensory awareness can ground us in the present moment.
3+ SENSORIAL (MENTAL)
This sub-level involves mental perceptions derived from sensory experiences but processed cognitively. It includes thoughts about those sensations and interpretations based on past experiences or beliefs. Cognitive psychology explores this aspect extensively; for instance, Jean Piaget’s theories on cognitive development illustrate how individuals construct knowledge through mental frameworks shaped by sensory input.
4. RATIONAL (CONCRETE)
Rational (concrete) awareness encompasses logical reasoning based on observable facts and empirical evidence. This level reflects critical thinking skills where individuals analyze situations using rational thought processes rather than emotions or instincts alone. René Descartes famously stated, “I think; therefore I am”, underscoring the importance of rational thought in establishing one’s existence and identity.
4+ RATIONAL (METHODIC)
Building upon concrete rationality, methodic rationality involves systematic approaches to problem-solving and decision-making through structured methodologies such as scientific methods or formal logic systems. This level reflects an advanced stage of reasoning where individuals apply rigorous standards to evaluate information critically.
5. IDEALISTIC (POSITIVE)
Idealistic awareness represents a shift towards higher ideals such as justice, beauty, truth, and moral values beyond mere material concerns. Philosophers like Immanuel Kant emphasized duty and moral imperatives in ethical behavior: “Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law”. This highlights an aspiration toward universal principles guiding human behavior.
5+ IDEALISTIC (PLATONIC)
In this sub-level lies an even deeper engagement with abstract ideals as envisioned by Plato—the realm of forms or ideas representing ultimate truths beyond physical reality. Plato argued that true knowledge comes from understanding these eternal forms rather than relying solely on sensory experience: “The greatest wealth is to live content with little”.
6. SOUL (CONTEMPLATIVE)
Contemplative awareness signifies an introspective journey into one’s inner self—reflecting deeply on personal values and existential questions about life’s purpose and meaning. This aligns with many spiritual traditions emphasizing meditation as a means to connect with one’s soul essence.
6+ SOUL (ASCETIC)
Asceticism represents a disciplined approach to spiritual growth involving self-denial or renunciation of worldly pleasures for higher spiritual goals—a common theme in various religious traditions including Buddhism and Christianity where practitioners seek enlightenment or divine connection through simplicity.
7. SPIRITUAL
At the highest level lies spiritual awareness—a profound connection with something greater than oneself often described as universal consciousness or divine presence transcending individual identity boundaries. Mystics across cultures have expressed this experience; for example, Rumi wrote: “You are not a drop in the ocean; you are the entire ocean in a drop”. This encapsulates the realization of interconnectedness among all beings.
In summary:
- Instinctual: Basic survival instincts.
- Material: Focus on physical possessions.
- Sensorial (Bodily): Awareness through bodily senses.
- Sensorial (Mental): Cognitive processing of sensory experiences.
- Rational (Concrete): Logical reasoning based on facts.
- Rational (Methodic): Systematic problem-solving approaches.
- Idealistic (Positive): Aspiration towards moral values.
- Idealistic (Platonic): Engagement with abstract ideals.
- Soul (Contemplative): Introspection into personal values.
- Soul (Ascetic): Self-denial for spiritual growth.
- Spiritual: Connection with universal consciousness.
These levels provide a comprehensive framework for understanding human consciousness from instinctual drives to profound spiritual connections.
Take the spiritual awareness test to find out where you stand in the pyramid of consciousness.
ARE YOU UNDERGOING SPIRITUAL AWAKENING?
Read the following sentences and choose the ones you agree with and find most meaningful.
Count the number of checked boxes and read the corresponding profile.
0: You are sleeping soundly
1-2: You are sleeping but not completely
3-4: You wish to awaken but something is slowing you down
5-6: You are awakening
The pyramid has many esoteric and spiritual meanings. This article gives a very interesting interpretation of it. Thank you for sharing!