Introduction
Understanding New Age
The New Age brings together very different beliefs and markets around the idea that a change of individual and collective consciousness can bring about a new era. It has neither founder, nor canon, nor central institution.
The concept of the Aquarius era existed in 19th-century esotericism, but the New Age environment developed with counterculture, Esalen, canning and networks of bookstores and salons.
To be retained
Four essential principles
- The New Age brings together very different beliefs and markets around the idea that a change of individual and collective consciousness can bring about a new era.
- The notion of the Aquarius existed in 19th-century esotericism, but the New Age environment developed with counterculture, Esalen, canning and bookstore networks and the creation of a...
- It is a place where karma, reincarnation, guides, "vibration", living Earth, power of intention and unity of traditions.
- the New Age expresses a contemporary quest for unity and transformation, but demands a rigorous discernment between symbol, belief and proof.
Small timeline
A tradition shaped by history
Origins and training
The concept of the Aquarius era existed in 19th-century esotericism, but the New Age environment developed with counterculture, Esalen, canning and networks of bookstores and salons.
Historical developments
From the 1990s on, the term was sometimes abandoned as its practices spread through personal development and wellbeing.
Ritual life and teachings
It is a place where karma, reincarnation, guides, "vibration", living Earth, power of intention and unity of traditions.
A living and plural tradition
From the 1990s on, the term was sometimes abandoned as its practices spread through personal development and wellbeing.
History and development
The concept of the Aquarius was a concept of 19th-century esotericism, but the New Age environment developed with counterculture, Esalen, canning and the networks of bookstores and salons. From the 1990s the term was sometimes abandoned while its practices spread in personal development and wellbeing.
Worldview, beliefs and practices
There is karma, reincarnation, guides, "vibration", living Earth, power of intention and unity of traditions. Each participant often composes his own journey.
This autonomy can open up a space for exploration, but also weaken the criteria for distinguishing experience, metaphor, commercial promise and verifiable fact.
Texts, symbols and transmission
A course in miracles, canning works, theosophical literature and countless writers of spiritual development. Symbols: rainbow, crystal, mandala, chakras, dolphin, planet Earth.
Many come from reinterpreted traditions.
What research can and cannot say
The concepts of spiritual energy, mental manifestation or quantum healing generally do not correspond to the scientific use of these words. Meditation or social support can have real effects without validating all the explanations proposed. Appropriation of Aboriginal ceremonies and financial or therapeutic drifts require vigilance.
References