PHILOSOPHY OF LIVING NATURE: A DIALOGUE BETWEEN EPIGENETICS, ARISTOTLE, AND KEN WILBER

Quách Nghiêm

Abstract

Abstract: This study analyzes and stages a dialogue among Epigenetics, Aristotle’s Metaphysics, and Ken Wilber’s Integral Philosophy to construct a “Philosophy of Living Nature”—a theoretical framework that is grounded in scientific evidence while encompassing humanistic and metaphysical dimensions. Epigenetics provides empirical data on how environment, behavior, and psychological states influence gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Aristotle offers the four causes (material, formal, efficient, final) and the pair of concepts potentiality–actuality to explain life’s directedness. Ken Wilber develops the four-quadrant model (subjective–objective–individual–collective) and the principle of integral evolution to connect science, philosophy, and spirituality. The paper identifies zones of overlap (the plasticity of life, a pluralistic view of causation, and the linkage between science and the humanities) as well as differences (objects, methods, aims). At the same time, the author warns of the risk of misinterpretation if concepts are conflated, and proposes a three-pillar integrative framework employing a “conceptual dialogue” method to bridge scientific data and philosophical schemas. In reality, no single system can fully account for life; only careful integration can open a holistic vista that nourishes both knowledge and our humanity.

Keywords: Living Nature; Epigenetics; Metaphysics; Potentiality–Actuality; Ken Wilber; Telos.