About the gardener
Hello, my name is Raphael Shklarek. I am deeply curious about human experiences and their connection to the emergence of ideas and beliefs. I try to understand the construction of reality through perception, emotion, cognition, reason, and intuition. I explore understanding itself. My work intersects the domains of complex systems, consciousness, epistemology, critique of ideology, and the pursuit of equity and viability.
My academic background in philosophy, psychology and political science, as well as my professional experience in future research and consulting equip me to approach problems from multiple perspectives. I strive to weave together and unify various strands of knowledge in pursuit of human flourishing, venturing beyond traditional or anthropocentric viewpoints.
With the rapid advancement of scientific insight and interconnectedness, understanding and making sense of our world has become more challenging. I believe that acceptance of uncertainty, ambiguity, and contradictions is crucial in our world. I consult individuals as well as organizations, and guide transformations to address contemporary challenges that require a systems perspective. It is my mission to help individuals and organizations break free from singular narratives and resist pre-packaged solutions.
My core values are:
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Curiosity
Pursue a deep and ongoing inquiry into human experiences and exploration. -
Wholeness
Embrace the integration of diverse fields of knowledge to gain holistic insights. -
Equity
Commit to understanding and promoting fairness, justice, and equitable opportunities for all individuals. -
Viability
Focus on viable practices that ensure long-term wellbeing for humans and all life. -
Critical Thinking
Question assumptions, challenge ideologies, and seek deeper understanding beyond surface-level explanations. -
Complexity Appreciation
Recognize and respect the intricate interconnections within systems, avoiding overly simplistic solutions. -
Acceptance of Uncertainty
Accept ambiguity and contradictions as inherent aspects of reality that can lead to richer understanding.