Chapter 8: Foundations and Considerations
Note on Chapter 8
This chapter is not part of the 7-day devotional cycle or the weekly rhythm of personal reflection. Instead, it serves a different purpose: to explore the foundations of Univism and explain where these ideas came from. While the earlier chapters focus on transformation through daily practice, this section steps back to examine the philosophical roots and practical tools that shaped Univism into what it is today. Think of it as the blueprint behind the house you've been living in.
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Part 1: Philosophical Foundations of Reality
To understand how Univism works at the deepest level, we must explore the building blocks of non-physical reality—the elements that make experience possible. Just as a video game requires a player, code, and consistent rules, the simulation of life rests upon three metaphysical axioms and the laws of logic that govern all rational systems.
The Three Axioms: What Must Be True for Experience to Exist
These axioms are not speculative—they are unavoidable truths. If you deny them, you deny the very possibility of consciousness or interaction. They form the foundation of all meaningful experiences.
1. Consciousness Exists
There must be an experiencer. Without consciousness, there is no awareness, no perception—nothing. This corresponds to the Larger Consciousness System (LCS), the source of all simulation, growth, and connection.
2. Identity is Real
There must be a localized “self” within the simulation—a unique perspective. This is the Individuated Conscious Unit (ICU), the player of the game.
3. Free Will is Present
There must be a choice. Without free will, growth is impossible. Your Avatar within the simulation must be able to act, learn, and change.
These three form the ontological bedrock of Univism—and of any functioning spiritual reality.
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The Laws of Logic: How the Simulation Remains Stable
While the axioms make experience possible, the laws of logic ensure that it remains coherent and meaningful. These laws are not physical—they are metaphysical. Even in a virtual or dreamlike world, logic keeps perception intelligible and choice possible.
1. Law of Identity
A thing is what it is. Without this, no experience can be defined.
2. Law of Noncontradiction
A thing cannot be both true and false at the same time in the same way. Without this, no reasoning is valid.
3. Law of the Excluded Middle
A statement must be either true or false. Without this, meaningful decision-making is impossible.
These laws allow simulated or spiritual systems to remain stable, navigable, and developmental. They are the operating rules of consciousness.
Together, the Three Axioms and the Laws of Logic create a universe that is not only possible—but playable.
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Part 2: Religious Considerations from a New Worldview
In Chapter 3, we explored your identity through the G.R.A.C.E. framework. While there are many perspectives to delve deeper into this subject, we recommend starting with the Christian perspective as presented by Neil T. Anderson and Dr. Andrew Farley. Their work offers profound insights into grace and self-identity that can reshape your understanding of who you are.
We also extend the concept of grace universally to all mankind. To explore the reasoning behind this belief, we encourage you to read That All Shall Be Saved and Grace Saves All.
In Chapter 7, we examined the idea that we live in a “video game.” This perspective naturally leads to the consideration of life as one of many lives. Karma and reincarnation—concepts embraced by much of the world for over a millennium—are well-grounded and deserve serious reflection.
To gain a hopeful vision of what life after death could be like, we recommend Life After Life by Raymond Moody and Journey of Souls by Michael Newton. These works provide compelling accounts of near-death experiences and spiritual progression, offering valuable insights into the journey of the soul between lives.
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Blending Grace and Reincarnation
How can these ideas coexist? Briefly stated:
There is no judgment or hell.
Heaven is a transitional state.
Salvation is by grace alone.
Karma and reincarnation are real.
While salvation is freely given, growth and maturity must be chosen through free will, necessitating multiple chosen lives.
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A Unified Perspective
Throughout this presentation, we’ve touched on the lifespans of individuals, civilizations, universes, and eternal consciousness. These lifespans are not contradictory but are woven together into a beautiful tapestry of growth, progress, and creation.
Over thousands, millions, or even billions of years, we will progress into realities and experiences that are currently beyond our comprehension. New simulations, new challenges, and new levels of existence will unfold, each one bringing new opportunities for transformation and discovery.
But there is nothing to fear—only hope and joy in knowing that life continues to get better and better as we grow. There is no final state, no point at which we “arrive” and stop progressing. Instead, existence is an ever-expanding journey of experience, evolution, and creativity—a journey that never ends.
This worldview invites you to see life not as something to escape, but as a never-ending adventure—one where you are free to learn, create, and explore in ways beyond your imagination. This is the boundless nature of grace and consciousness itself.
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Part 3: The Bible as Spiritual Parable
Univism holds a high view of the Bible—but not always a traditional one. We believe the Bible is inspired by the Larger Consciousness System (LCS) and was written with the intention to teach spiritual truths through story.
We see the Bible as a sacred parable from beginning to end. Like all great parables, it may be based on real events, but its primary purpose is not to deliver history—it is to awaken the soul. Some stories are literal, others symbolic. How much is “factual” will become clearer over time. What matters most is the truth beneath the story.
To us, the Bible is not the ultimate source of truth—life is. The Bible is a supporting document that aligns with the lessons of experience, growth, love, and grace. It is immensely valuable, but it should be read with spiritual eyes, not as a rulebook.
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Part 4: Morality Rooted in Reality, Not Authority
In Univism, morality is both objective and personal. It is objective because it arises from the nature of life itself. Certain actions are life-giving, and others are destructive. These are not based on opinion—they are observable across time and culture.
But morality is also personal because it must be chosen freely in the pursuit of a joyful and fulfilling life. It is not about obedience or guilt. It is about learning to live well, aligned with reason, love, and inner truth.
We do not believe that the Bible is the final authority on morality. Even the Bible suggests otherwise. The Psalms proclaim, “The heavens declare the glory of God,” and Paul writes that God’s will is written into nature and conscience.
The ultimate source of morality is not a text—it is reality. The Bible is a powerful witness to that reality, but it is not the judge.
In Univism, morality is defined by what builds a better life, a better self, and a better world. It is rational, spiritual, and free. And like everything else in the universe—it is meant to grow.
Part 5: the five pillars (intellectual ancestors) of Univism
Univism didn’t appear out of nowhere. Like all great philosophies, it was shaped by what came before it. While Univism ultimately offers a unique and original framework, its roots can be traced through five major systems of thought—each one offering insights, strengths, and even mistakes that helped refine what Univism would become. These five influences are not “pillars of belief,” but rather intellectual ancestors—foundational frameworks that played a part in shaping the Univist worldview. Some have been deeply reinterpreted; others have been partially rejected. But all contributed something essential to the structure of what you are now holding in your hands.
1. Grace‑Based Theology
What it contributes:
Offers the emotional and spiritual bedrock of Univism—grace as identity, not performance.
What we agree with:
Unconditional love defines you.
You’re accepted, not because of what you do, but because of what Christ did.
Grace empowers restoration, not moralizing guilt.
What we modify or reject:
Eternal hell is neither just nor necessary.
Salvation is a present reality—not something we must earn or maintain through effort.
Grace is not a springboard for sin, but the soil in which transformed life grows.
Suggested resources:
The Naked Gospel by Andrew Farley
The Rest of the Gospel by Dan Stone & David Gregory
Victory Over the Darkness by Neil Anderson
Who Cares Who I Am? by John Best
Free at Last! by Tony Evans
2. Christian Universalism
What It Contributes
Christian Universalism provides the logical and theological bridge between individual grace and global restoration. If grace truly saves apart from merit, then it must ultimately extend to everyone. This tradition boldly affirms that God's will is to reconcile all people—and that God’s will cannot be thwarted.
Universalism answers the deeper question: If God is love, and love never fails, then how could any soul be lost forever?
What We Agree With
God desires the salvation of all—and He will achieve it. (1 Tim. 2:4, 1 Cor. 15:22)
Eternal punishment contradicts the nature of divine love and justice.
Salvation is not about escaping hell—it’s about entering into truth, relationship, and growth with God.
The Bible, properly interpreted, offers many clues and direct statements that support ultimate reconciliation.
What We Modify or Reject
While Univism fully affirms the end goal of Christian Universalism, it diverges in three key areas:
Scriptural Authority: Many modern Universalist communities lean toward liberal theology, often dismissing or distrusting the Bible. Univism does not. We affirm that the Bible is inspired by the Larger Consciousness System (LCS) and should be interpreted as a spiritual parable, full of wisdom when read through the lens of grace and growth.
The Purpose of the Cross: Most Christian Universalists reject penal substitution (rightly), but few offer a clear replacement explanation. Univism affirms that the cross was not transactional, but revelatory—a demonstration of eternal truth, just as baptism or communion symbolize what is already true.
> “The goal was not to change God’s mind about man, but to change man’s mind about God.”
Final Destination Thinking: Christian Universalism often envisions heaven as a final reward. Univism sees all afterlife experiences—including heaven—as transitional stages in the eternal journey of the soul. Rather than a static end, we believe in endless growth, learning, and rebirth, aligned with divine grace and free will.
Suggested Resources for Deeper Study
These books offer a powerful introduction to Christian Universalism and its theological arguments:
That All Shall Be Saved by David Bentley Hart
An uncompromising critique of eternal hell from one of the most formidable minds in theology. Philosophically rigorous and theologically fearless.
Grace Saves All by David Artman
A clear, spiritually grounded vision of salvation as a gift for all. Grace is not selective—it’s universal, eternal, and already finished.
If Grace Is True by Philip Gulley & James Mulholland
A heartfelt and accessible journey into universal reconciliation, told with pastoral care and personal honesty.
The Inescapable Love of God by Thomas Talbott
A deep philosophical and scriptural case for the inevitability of God’s loving victory. Logical and precise.
The Evangelical Universalist by Gregory MacDonald (Robin Parry)
A courageous attempt to argue for universal salvation using only Scripture, written from within the evangelical tradition.
3. Freedom Philosophy
What It Contributes
The Freedom Philosophy provides Univism with its ethical structure of personal responsibility, self-reliance, and rational individualism. It teaches that happiness is not found in obedience or sacrifice, but in creating a life that reflects your values, free from guilt, coercion, or dependency.
This pillar stands in contrast to moral systems based on fear, shame, or obligation. It celebrates voluntary action, emotional sovereignty, and the belief that no one else is responsible for your happiness—and you are not responsible for theirs.
> “You are free to live your life—because it is yours. You are not required to justify your joy.”
What We Agree With
Univism aligns strongly with the following principles found in the Freedom Philosophy tradition:
You don’t need permission to be free. Most of the barriers in life are internal, not external.
No one owes you anything. Freedom begins the moment you stop waiting for fairness or validation.
Direct alternatives are better than indirect ones. Manipulation, obligation, and guilt are substitutes for honest, voluntary choices.
Personal responsibility leads to empowerment. When you take ownership of your choices, your growth accelerates.
This is the moral strength of Univism: Grace makes you worthy. Freedom makes you whole.
What We Modify or Reject
Despite its power, the Freedom Philosophy is often grounded in atheism and materialism. This is where Univism departs completely.
Materialism: Many authors in this tradition see only the physical world. Univism holds to an idealist panentheistic worldview—where consciousness is primary, and God is both within and beyond all things. We believe the universe is not random, but relational.
Atheism: Freedom does not require the denial of God. In Univism, God is not a tyrant demanding sacrifice, but a loving Source who empowers your freedom and growth.
Emotional minimalism: Some thinkers in this tradition downplay vulnerability, connection, or grace. Univism sees emotional connection as essential—not weakness, but power properly directed.
Suggested Resources for Deeper Study
The following books represent the heart of Freedom Philosophy. They differ in tone and style, but each one calls you to stop waiting, stop obeying, and start choosing:
How I Found Freedom in an Unfree World by Harry Browne
A practical handbook for escaping social traps and living by your own values. Clear, radical, and focused on real-world action.
Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach
A spiritual fable about breaking from mediocrity, discovering your true self, and rising above conformity. Short, poetic, and profound.
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
A foundational novel of the Freedom Philosophy, packed with bold characters and radical ideas about individualism, productivity, and the morality of self-interest. While long and philosophically dense, it remains a cornerstone text for many.
Loving Life by Craig Biddle
A friendlier, shorter introduction to the same core ethics. Focuses on how to live joyfully and rationally—without sacrifice—by making your own life your highest value.
The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel Branden
A foundational work on psychological self-worth, showing how self-esteem is built through conscious living and personal integrity.
Old Nick’s Guide to Happiness by Nicholas Dykes
A lesser-known gem that leans toward anarchist libertarianism rather than strict Objectivism. Philosophically rich, narratively engaging, and filled with references for deeper exploration. Easier to read than Rand, and just as transformative.
4. Simulation Theory
What It Contributes
Simulation theory offers a radical but increasingly plausible framework: that reality as we experience it is not the base of existence, but a rendered environment, like a video game or virtual world. Everything—matter, time, space, even death—is part of a simulated system designed for interaction, learning, and evolution.
In this sense, simulation theory provides the scaffolding for Univism. It explains how our experiences are structured, rendered, and synchronized across observers. It brings metaphysical logic into alignment with modern science and technology.
It doesn’t answer every question—but it shows why those questions matter in the first place.
What We Agree With
Univism embraces simulation theory’s major insights:
Reality is rendered, not absolute. Our experiences are real, but they are constructed based on perception, attention, and interaction.
Consciousness precedes experience. What we call “the universe” is an interface—a system of feedback rendered for conscious beings (ICUs).
Time and space are not fundamental. They are part of the simulation’s structure, not its essence.
Non-physical realities are just as valid. Dreams, visions, and inner experiences are not imaginary—they are simply rendered on a different layer.
> “You are not in the universe—you are interfacing with a simulation of it. The real you exists outside the simulation, choosing how to play.”
What We Modify or Reject
Simulation theory, while powerful, is incomplete. Univism affirms its structure but adds the missing purpose and spiritual foundation.
Materialist base reality: Some theorists argue there must be a “base reality” that runs the simulation—usually imagined as a physical supercomputer. Univism rejects this. We are fully idealist:
> There is no base physical realm. There is only God, the self-aware, self-rendering consciousness who exists both within and beyond the simulation.
Who runs the simulation? Simulation theory often avoids this question. Univism answers it directly:
> God is the Renderer—and He creates through His avatars: Individuated Conscious Units (ICUs) that grow, choose, and love within the simulation.
Why simulate at all? We reject the nihilistic or trivial explanations (e.g., “post-human entertainment”). The purpose of the simulation is growth, joy, learning, and love.
Finality: Some versions imply a beginning and end. Univism sees simulation not as a one-time experiment, but as an eternal unfolding—a loop of creation that expands forever.
Suggested Resources for Deeper Study
These books offer varied approaches to simulation theory—from scientific to spiritual. Together, they form a powerful bridge to Univism.
The Simulation Hypothesis by Rizwan Virk
An excellent starting point. Connects simulation theory with Eastern spirituality, quantum science, and virtual reality. A balanced and accessible read.
The Holographic Universe by Michael Talbot
Explores reality as a projection—based on quantum physics and spiritual experiences. One of the earliest works to unite mysticism and science in this way.
The Case Against Reality by Donald Hoffman
A rigorous argument that our perceptions are user interfaces—not the world itself. Perfect for readers who want the logic behind perception-as-simulation.
Our Mathematical Universe by Max Tegmark
A scientific case for reality as a mathematical structure. More secular in tone but rich in vision.
Being You by Anil Seth
Describes consciousness as a constructed “controlled hallucination.” A good neuroscience-based complement to the theory.
5. Eastern Wisdom & Reincarnation
What It Contributes
Eastern traditions have explored the nature of the soul and the continuity of consciousness for thousands of years. While Univism does not adopt their entire worldview, it recognizes the deep psychological and metaphysical insight in their treatment of death, rebirth, and non-attachment.
The key contribution from this pillar is the idea that life is a series of learning journeys, not a one-time test. This aligns beautifully with Univism’s view that growth never ends, and that death is not a punishment or reward—but a transition.
Reincarnation, when understood properly, is not about paying for your mistakes—it’s about continuing your story.
What We Agree With
Life continues after death. What we call "death" is simply a portal into a different stage of consciousness.
You grow over many lives. Consciousness evolves through repeated experience, reflection, and choice.
The material world is not ultimate. The body is a vehicle—not your true identity.
Detachment from outcomes matters. Growth is not about achievement, but presence, awareness, and connection.
These ideas resonate with Univism’s simulation model: your body is an avatar. When it dies, you don’t. You review, learn, rest, and choose what’s next.
> “You are not a body that has a soul. You are a soul who temporarily wears a body.”
What We Modify or Reject
Traditional Eastern views often come with ideas Univism does not affirm:
Salvation by merit. Many systems teach that reincarnation is a cycle of reward and punishment based on past actions (karma). Univism rejects this.
> You are not punished by your choices—you learn from them.
Final enlightenment. Many traditions view the end goal as escape—nirvana or moksha, a dissolving into the All. Univism believes there is no finality.
> Growth is endless. Life never stops. Even God is still creating.
Depersonalization. Some Eastern views dissolve individuality into the cosmic whole. Univism affirms the soul as eternally unique and valuable.
Suggested Resources for Deeper Study
These books don’t all use the word “reincarnation,” but each one supports the idea that consciousness continues, learns, and grows across lifetimes.
Journey of Souls by Michael Newton
A clinical exploration of the “between lives” state—where souls choose new lives, reflect on their past, and plan their growth. Deeply compatible with simulation theory.
Life After Life trilogy by Raymond Moody
Groundbreaking near-death experience research. Shows patterns of tunnel travel, light beings, life reviews, and soul awareness beyond the body.
Children Who Remember Past Lives by Ian Stevenson
A scientific study of thousands of children who recalled accurate details from prior lives—often confirmed through investigation. Powerful evidence for reincarnation.
Journeys Out of the Body by Robert A. Monroe
While not about reincarnation directly, Monroe’s vivid out-of-body experiences support the foundational idea that consciousness is not tied to the body. His work laid the groundwork for simulation-compatible models of the soul.
Part 6: The Three Tools of Univism
(Practical Disciplines for Transformation)
While the Five Pillars of Univism explain the intellectual ancestry of the philosophy, Univism also draws upon three practical tools to support transformation in everyday life. These are not ideological pillars, but evidence-based disciplines that enhance emotional, mental, and behavioral change.
Each tool corresponds with major practices throughout the book and can be studied independently for those who want to explore further—or even challenge and critique our approach. We welcome the dialogue.
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1. Positive Psychology
Where it appears: Most strongly in Chapter 1 (Love Yourself) and Chapter 5 (Rational Optimism)
Positive psychology is the scientific study of what makes life worth living. Instead of focusing on dysfunction and pathology, it studies joy, meaning, resilience, and strengths. Univism draws heavily from this field in its emphasis on:
Self-compassion
Gratitude
Strength-based living
Meaning and purpose
Emotional well-being
We affirm that emotional flourishing is not a luxury—it is the foundation of spiritual and personal growth.
Suggested Resources:
Flourish by Martin Seligman
The How of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky
Positivity by Barbara Fredrickson
The work of Tal Ben-Shahar at Harvard and the Happiness Studies Academy
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2. Holistic Health and Well-being
Where it appears: Most strongly in Chapter 3 (Grow)
Wellness is not just about avoiding disease—it’s about aligning your physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational life toward vitality and growth. Univism promotes a balanced life through:
Daily habits of sleep, nutrition, and movement
Preventive and integrative healthcare
Life domains and goal setting across areas of well-being
Social connection and purpose
The Eight Life Areas in Chapter 3 reflect decades of work in whole health planning and integrative well-being models.
Suggested Resources:
The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner
Younger Next Year by Chris Crowley & Henry Lodge
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) by Mary Ellen Copeland
National Wellness Institute: Six Dimensions of Wellness
Whole Health tools from the U.S. Veterans Administration
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3. Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
Where it appears: Most strongly in Chapter 4 (The Know Method) and Chapter 3 (SIVAC + WISH)
NLP is a set of techniques for understanding and transforming mental patterns through language, imagery, and behavior. It emphasizes that our thoughts are not facts—they are programmable. Univism draws from NLP to teach:
Visualization and anchoring
Emotional state management
Goal design and future pacing
Reframing and belief change
Mindfulness and observer identity (e.g., T.O.P. method)
While NLP has been both praised and criticized, its core tools remain powerful when used responsibly and ethically for personal growth.
Suggested Resources:
Introducing NLP by Joseph O’Connor & John Seymour
Unlimited Power by Tony Robbins
Time Line Therapy and the Basis of Personality by Tad James
NLP University (Robert Dilts and Judith DeLozier)
The work of Richard Bandler and John Grinder (founders)
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Final Note: Application, Not Allegiance
Univism does not “belong to” these tools—nor do we adopt them wholesale. Instead, we adapt and integrate what works. All three tools have strengths, limitations, and areas of ongoing research. But used together, they provide powerful support for the daily transformation Univism invites you into.
Grace gives you identity.
Freedom gives you ownership.
These tools give you traction.
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