Science for Consciousness, Ethics, and Societal Resilienc
Thorsten Schmitt
Director, CIRAS Center for Spirituality
Thorsten Schmitt, leads the CIRAS Center for Spirituality. With over 30 years of experience in consciousness research, ethical technology development, and integrative methodology, he unites scientific expertise with well-founded practice. His background in computer science is complemented by advanced training in bioinformation technology, kinesiology, and certified qualifications in Technical Remote Viewing (an evidence-based method for exploring cognitive perception) and Cobimax.
As a developer of innovative training approaches for consciousness development and founder of Free Media Networks Ltd., he connects technological infrastructure with ethical and mindfulness-based principles. The OtterVers research project, initiated by him, which focuses on decentralized collective intelligence and sustainable cooperation models, is an integral part of the Center’s work.
The CIRAS Center for Spirituality explores the foundations of consciousness, human interconnectedness, and ethical responsibility. Its aim is to establish spirituality as a knowledge-driven field of research that contributes to individual development as much as to global collaboration. Our interdisciplinary approach combines empirical methods from cognitive science, ethics, technology, and social research with an open, dogma-free perspective on human consciousness.
Research Mission:
The Center is dedicated to exploring key questions at the intersection of consciousness, ethics, and technology. Our research is based on four central pillars:
- Individual Consciousness Development
Investigation and application of evidence-based practices such as mindfulness, systemic feedback training, cognitively grounded meditation, and experimental methods like TRV. The goal is to promote self-awareness, emotional resilience, and individual autonomy. - Global Interconnectedness and Collective Intelligence
Analysis of the interactions between individual consciousness, social dynamics, and global challenges. This leads to models for sustainable cooperation, societal resilience, and networked problem-solving—such as through the OtterVers project, implemented in collaboration with other CIRAS Institute research units. - Ethics and Technology-Supported Consciousness Spaces
Development of human-centered, ethically reflected digital infrastructures. These promote integrative communication, mindful decision-making, and the resilience of democratic systems—with the aim of making technology a tool for spiritual maturity and societal balance. - Interdisciplinary Cooperation and Knowledge Transfer
Collaboration with researchers from neuroscience, philosophy, systems theory, anthropology, and digital ethics. We strive to establish spirituality scientifically as a reflective space for human and planetary future questions—in dialogue with governance, education, and civil society.
Societal and Global Impact:
The CIRAS Center understands spirituality as an active force for peace, collaboration, and sustainable action. Through systematic research and policy-oriented impulses, we contribute to solving global challenges—such as digital fragmentation, the loss of societal coherence, and the ecological crisis. Our evidence-based work engages decision-makers from politics, science, and industry who are interested in integrative, forward-looking concepts that connect individual freedom with collective responsibility.
Vision:
The CIRAS Center for Spirituality strives for a world in which people can freely unfold their unique consciousness, supported by ethical technologies and scientific insights. We are committed to a future in which spirituality serves as a catalyst for peace, collaboration, and ecological sustainability, working with global partners to realize this vision.
Conclusion:
We understand spirituality not as a belief system but as a scientifically grounded exploration of inner experiential spaces, cognitive resilience, and systemic interconnectedness—in alignment with modern insights from neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and futures studies.
Therefore, spirituality is not an esoteric niche but a source of insight, connection, and responsibility. It strengthens the ability to navigate complexity, understand conflicts, and make sustainable decisions.