Noetic - Definition and Overview

Most dictionaries define the term noetic as a synonym of "mental" or "intellectual." However, in recent decades, the term has taken on new usages among New Age authors and teachers. The Institute of Noetic Sciences defines noetic as, roughly, 'relating to consciousness or intuition'.

The word comes from the Greek word nous, which is usually translated as "mind", "understanding", "intellect" or "reason". However, the ancient Pythagoreans and Platonists used the term to mean "the cosmic soul". According to Neo-Platonic cosmology, the nous emanates directly from the One. From the nous emerges the world-soul, which gives rise to the manifest realm. These mystical, cosmic connotations are why the New Age movement has embraced the term noetic and used it to refer to the exploration of individual or cosmic consciousness.

External Link

"What is Noetic" by the Institute of Noetic Sciences (http://www.noetic.org/about/what_is.cfm)

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