Meaning: Rupert Sheldrake, a British biologist and author, is known for his theory of morphic resonance, which is the concept underlying the quote you provided. Sheldrake's theory suggests that there is a form of collective memory inherent in nature, which he refers to as morphic resonance. This concept proposes that each species, or even each individual within a species, draws upon a collective memory that influences its behavior and development.

The quote you provided illustrates Sheldrake's idea by using the example of a squirrel in New York. According to Sheldrake, this squirrel is not only influenced by its immediate environment and experiences but also by the collective memory of all past squirrels. This collective memory is not limited to genetic or learned behaviors but extends to a more abstract and interconnected level of influence that transcends individual experience. In this way, the behavior and characteristics of the squirrel are shaped by the accumulated experiences and knowledge of its species.

Sheldrake's theory challenges the traditional mechanistic view of nature and biological systems, which often relies on the concept of genetic determinism and environmental factors as the primary influences on an organism's development and behavior. Instead, morphic resonance suggests that there is a non-material, interconnected aspect of nature that influences the form and behavior of living organisms.

Sheldrake's theory has sparked considerable debate within the scientific community. Critics argue that the concept of morphic resonance lacks empirical evidence and is not supported by mainstream scientific understanding. However, Sheldrake contends that traditional scientific methods and paradigms may not be capable of fully capturing or explaining the phenomena he is proposing.

From Sheldrake's perspective, the concept of morphic resonance provides a framework for understanding phenomena that are not easily explained by conventional scientific approaches. He suggests that morphic resonance may offer a new way of understanding phenomena such as instinct, animal behavior, and even human consciousness.

In addition to its implications for biology and ecology, Sheldrake's theory of morphic resonance has also been applied to fields such as psychology, sociology, and even spirituality. Some proponents of his work see it as a potential bridge between scientific and spiritual worldviews, offering a framework for understanding interconnectedness and the transmission of knowledge and experience across generations and species.

Overall, Sheldrake's quote encapsulates the core concept of morphic resonance, highlighting the idea that nature possesses a collective memory that influences the development and behavior of living organisms. While the theory remains controversial and continues to be the subject of ongoing scientific scrutiny, it offers a thought-provoking perspective on the interconnectedness of life and the potential influences that extend beyond individual experience and genetics.