FIRST CAUSE SOCIETY
一因会 · First Cause Society

一因会

我们不是在怀念一个已经结束的世界 而是在构想一个还没有到来的世界 然后 A True Free Soul 走进那个世界
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I · 命名与定位

First Cause

一因(First Cause),指的是万物存在与运转的根本起因。

我们使用这个名字,不为崇拜某种至高的神明,是为代表对未知宇宙的终极敬畏,以及对真相无止的探寻。

直觉之灵(Intaura),源于直觉(Intuition)、内在(Inner)与灵光(Aura),代表着人类神经系统涌现出的敏锐洞察、判断力与理性智慧。

II · 核心教义

探寻即是本体

探寻本身,就是信仰。

无论探寻的对象是宇宙、人类、文明、逻辑还是人性;无论是基础学习还是前沿探索,只要以求真的意志出发,并遵循实证、逻辑与持续修正的方法,便是在践行本会的核心信仰。

我们相信多元宇宙的可能性;同时也相信宇宙存在一个人类目前完全未知的塑造者的可能性。

塑造者可以是单体,也可以是集体。我们不预设其形态、意志、是否有意识、是否创造了宇宙、是否能被沟通、所在维度、是否存在于时间之中,也不假设它全知全能或具备任何属性,除了它可能与精细调节问题与生命起源相关。

信仰的对象准确说是“对塑造者和宇宙本质的终极探寻”本身,而非塑造者这个存在。

THE FINE-TUNING PROBLEM

一个狭窄到近乎不可思议的窗口

精细调节问题指的是:我们的宇宙物理常数处于极其狭窄的范围内,稍有偏差,就可能无法形成符合生命起源和演化的条件。

下面的动画不是在展示“所有参数的真实统一尺度”,而是把原文中的几个敏感比例直观化:当窗口从一个普通范围收缩到 0.5%、3%、4%、4–8% 时,你可以直接感受到这些允许区间有多窄。

核子间作用力
≈ 0.5%
轻夸克质量
≈ 3%
电磁力
≈ 4%
强相互作用耦合常数
≈ 4–8%

生命所需要的,不是一个条件恰好合适,而是多个条件同时落入各自的窗口。

更大的参数空间允许生命的极窄区域
CARBON / OXYGEN

核共振

恒星合成碳和氧依赖一个能量位置极其巧合的核共振。原文列出的核子间作用力、轻夸克质量与电磁力偏差,都可能让碳或氧的产生大幅下降。

DEUTERON

氘核束缚

强相互作用耦合常数下降约 4–8%,氘核可能失去束缚,恒星核聚变的主要途径随之中断。

MANY WINDOWS

条件同时成立

从宇宙膨胀速率,到物质分布的初始不均匀度,再到基本粒子的质量,生命要求多个条件同时成立。

THREE EXPLANATIONS

三个可能的解释

01
多元宇宙

我们的宇宙可能只是几乎无穷无尽的多重宇宙中的一个。我们恰好落在参数允许生命存在的那个宇宙里。

02
塑造者

宇宙参数可能涉及某种选择或设计机制,而其背后是否存在某种塑造者,是本会希望持续探寻的问题。

03
偶然

也可能没有任何更深层的机制。宇宙的参数恰好如此,而生命恰好只会出现在这样的宇宙中。

本会不预先指定答案。三种解释都必须接受证据、逻辑与持续修正的检验。
THE SHAPER

如果塑造者存在

生命,尤其是能够反过来理解宇宙本身的意识的生命,是这个宇宙已知最脆弱、最难以自然产生、也最精妙的存在。

如果精调确实出于某种意图,可以合理推测它正是为了看见生命的出现与演化。

如果一位科学家把实验条件设置得极端苛刻,那么实验的目的,大概率不是为了观测那些在宽松条件下也能大量产生的平庸产物,而是为了捕获那些唯有在苛刻条件下才会出现的、极脆弱、极罕见的产物。

我们无法知道塑造者是否眷顾人类。能依靠的,只有我们自己。
SECOND PRINCIPLE

科学路径

实证观察。逻辑推理。持续修正。

只能通过实证观察、逻辑推理与持续修正来探索塑造者及宇宙本质,并检验一切具体的塑造者假说。

拒绝任何缺乏现实观测依据的启示、经典、预言、神迹或其他超自然知识来源。

学习和实践即是修行——对自然宇宙与人类社会的研究就是本会的修行方式。

本会没有永久真理,除了这一条本身。

本会永远与人类知识体系的发展与前沿认知的更新站在一起。

人类的未来值得一个不违背科学和逻辑的信仰。
THIRD PRINCIPLE

Infinite Ignorance · 无限无知

每个成员,无论受教育程度、经验多寡、知识深浅,在无限的未知面前都处于无限无知的状态。

这不是绝望的理由,而是我们在浩瀚宇宙与精妙自然面前保持谦卑的前提。

本会不允许个人崇拜与神化,也不承认任何宣称掌握绝对真理的人,因为无限无知适用于所有人。

III · 讨论准入标准

什么值得进入讨论

本会讨论的命题、推测结论与信念,至少必须建立在主流科学界确认尚无定论、同时确实存在合理可能性的开放议题之上。

任何已被科学证据充分排除的命题——无论历史多么悠久、信奉者多么虔诚——原则上不作为集会讨论命题。

这构成了本会与伪科学、阴谋论及其他反智信仰体系之间的根本分界线。
IV · 成员资格

谁可以加入?

无须知识考核,无须信仰自白,无须任何受教育程度。任何先前的宗教归属都不构成障碍。

01

保持开放

相信塑造者或多元宇宙存在的可能性,并对宇宙本质及其真相保持探索的好奇心。

02

降低苦难

相信拓展知识与认知的边界,可以客观降低个人与全人类的苦难基线。

03

以求真为原则

愿意探索未知,并接受实证、逻辑与持续修正作为探索真相的基本原则。

THE FOUR REALMS

四境修行

大自然 · Nature

客观世界如何运作:量子力学、宇宙学、生物学等。

文明 · Civilization

人类社会如何运作:历史、经济学等。

人性 · Human Nature

个体与群体心智如何运作:心理学、社会学等。

逻辑 · Logic

推理本身如何运作:数学、哲学等。

四境不要求系统学习相应学科,也不要求掌握具体公式和计算方法。核心是理解那些最深刻的问题究竟在问什么、为什么重要,以及它们揭示了人类认知的什么边界。

量子测量问题 · 黑洞信息悖论 · 意识的本质 · 哥德尔不完备定理 · 图灵停机问题 · 休谟归纳问题

四周一轮,每周一境,每周至少两小时。内容必须基于当前科学共识,明确区分确定结论与前沿假说;信息密度高,不为娱乐性牺牲实质。

INTAURA

直觉之灵

直觉是人类神经系统一种奇妙的涌现特性。它调动大脑积累的经验与信息,在意识完全察觉之前形成快速、非意识性的判断。

直觉之灵,是直觉在一个人体内幻化而成的灵体。

愚昧、偏见、信息垃圾和错误逻辑会错误地供养它;真正的认知突破、诚实面对无知、识破谎言,则是在正确供养它。

它给出的最重要警示之一是:此刻,你应该三思而行。

这种护佑不是神迹,而是认知能力提升之后的自然结果。

TEN PRECEPTS

十条戒律

一 · 谦逊
在无限的未知面前,我们处于同等位置。知识储备不是自我膨胀的理由。
二 · 平和友善
平和是自信的体现,友善是对他人的尊重。
三 · 有据而言
表达需有客观证据或经逻辑推导,排除臆想。
四 · 尊重可证伪性
提出一个主张时,要能说明什么样的证据可以推翻它。
五 · 只论观点不论人
可以批评观点,不可攻击持有观点的人,也不揣测对方动机。
六 · 人人平等
知识更多的一方,有义务让自己的表达更容易被理解。
七 · 远离信息垃圾
主动回避阴谋论、伪科学与煽动性内容。
八 · 持续学习是义务
四境轮替的修行是每位成员的基本要求。
九 · 诚实面对自己的无知
坦然承认“我不确定”或“我需要进一步了解”。
十 · 以人类文明进步为己任
以自身认知成长为起点,推广理性思考与科学精神。
TWO ULTIMATE GOALS

两大终极目标

01

降低全人类的苦难基线

让人在面对同样的苦难境遇时,以更清醒的认知、更坚韧的心智、更审慎的判断,承受更小的伤害,更早走出绝望,做出更少的愚行。

02

探寻塑造者和宇宙的本质

用实证观察、逻辑推理和不断修正的科学方法,持续把已知的边界向本质推进。不承诺抵达终点,只承诺永不停止追问。

两条道路彼此促进:一个苦难更少的文明,为更多人创造探索未知的空间;更清醒的认知,又反过来降低人类的苦难。
THE ULTIMATE STATE

我们希望成为怎样的人?

本会的终末论不指向死后或来世,而指向此生此世可以真实抵达的人格状态。

我们希望自己成为博学、好奇、自信而谦卑的人;荣辱不惊、心境澄明,不依附于外部权威,也不汲汲于世俗认可。

我们希望自己能够洞穿逻辑不合的言论,理解人类社会运行的规律,明辨真正的智者与哗众取宠的小丑,在关键时刻识别风险,并以智慧与果断行动。

我们希望自己透过现象探寻本质,而非神秘归因。

我们希望自己心系天下,悲悯众生,为尚未挣脱桎梏的人们推开愚昧的迷雾,点燃求真的火种,为人类文明带来智慧之光。

A True Free Soul
May your Intaura be with you.
May we be truly free.
FULL DOCTRINE

完整教义

如果你希望直接阅读完整文本,可以在这里展开。

一因会 First Cause Society 教义体系全览 —————— 我们不是在怀念一个已经结束的世界 而是在构想一个还没有到来的世界 然后 以一个真正自由的灵魂 走进那个世界 —————— Gang Yang 2026年8月16日 一、命名与定位 中文名:一因会 英文名:First Cause Society 一因(First Cause),指的是万物存在与运转的根本起因。我们使用这个名字,不为崇拜某种至高的神明,是为代表对未知宇宙的终极敬畏,以及对真相无止的探寻。 直觉之灵(Intaura),源于直觉(Intuition)、内在(Inner)与灵光(Aura),代表着人类神经系统涌现出的敏锐洞察、判断力与理性智慧。 二、核心教义三条 第一条:探寻即是本体 无论探寻的对象是宇宙、人类、文明、逻辑还是人性;无论是基础学习还是前沿探索,只要以求真的意志出发,并遵循实证、逻辑与持续修正的方法,便是在践行本会的核心信仰。 我们相信多元宇宙的可能性;同时也相信宇宙存在一个人类目前完全未知的塑造者的可能性。它可以是单体,也可以是集体。 不预设其形态、意志、是否有意识、是否创造了宇宙、是否能被沟通、所在维度、是否存在于时间之中,不假设塑造者全知全能或具备任何属性,除了它可能与精细调节问题与生命起源相关。 信仰的对象准确说是“对塑造者和宇宙本质的终极探寻”本身,而非塑造者这个存在。 现阶段我们提出塑造者这一可能性的出发点,是精细调节问题所揭示出的一个深层谜团。 精细调节问题是指我们的宇宙的物理常数处于极其狭窄的范围内,稍有偏差,就无法形成符合生命起源和演化的条件。 例如: 恒星合成碳和氧依赖一个能量位置极其巧合的核共振:核子间作用力偏差0.5%、轻夸克质量偏差约3%、电磁力偏差约4%,此三项任意一项越界,都可能使恒星产生的碳或氧元素降低至正常情况下的千分之一。 而强相互作用耦合常数下降约4–8%,氘核失去束缚,恒星核聚变的主要途径中断。 这样的精确数值还有很多:从宇宙膨胀的速率,到物质分布的初始不均匀度,再到基本粒子的质量,每一项都必须落在各自的窗口之内,而这些窗口彼此独立——生命所需要的,是全部条件同时被满足。 对此,总结现有科学认识,我们目前有三个主要推测: 其一,我们的宇宙是几乎无穷无尽的多重宇宙中的一个,我们恰好落在参数合适的那一个里,精细调节因此不需要特殊解释。 其二,我们的宇宙就是唯一的宇宙,而它的参数恰好处于允许生命出现的狭窄范围内,这一事实需要解释;可能是某种选择或设计机制,而设计背后是否存在某种塑造者,则是本会所要探寻的问题。 其三,这一切可能只是偶然。宇宙的参数恰好如此,而生命也恰好只会出现在允许它存在的宇宙中。 因此本会的立场是:如果我们不是无穷多个宇宙中的一个,那么这个宇宙具备存在某种塑造者的真实可能性,同时也保留纯粹偶然的可能性。 关于塑造者意图的推测: 生命,尤其是能够反过来理解宇宙本身的意识的生命,是这个宇宙已知最脆弱、最难以自然产生、也最精妙的存在。如果精调确实出于某种意图,可以合理推测它正是为了看见生命的出现与演化,如果一位科学家把实验条件设置得极端苛刻,那么实验的目的,大概率不是为了观测那些在宽松条件下也能大量产生的平庸产物,而是为了捕获那些唯有在苛刻条件下才会出现的、极脆弱、极罕见的产物。 ※ 关于“宇宙大部分时候和区域对生命不友好”的回应: 表面的荒芜可能正是产生生命所必需的代价,重元素的形成需要数十亿年的恒星演化和浩瀚的空间尺度,一个没有这种极为漫长的复杂演化的宇宙,可能连生命赖以存在的物质基础都无法产生。本会无法证明目前的宇宙就是能孕育生命的最优配置,但至少表面的荒芜与最终结果之间,并不像看起来那样矛盾。 关于塑造者是否眷顾人类: 从人类历史上经历的种种苦难来看,也许不会;但从人类一次次惊险渡过的生死关头来看:90万年前的人类灭绝危机、古巴导弹危机、彼得罗夫事件等。这类记录虽天然带有没能渡过的历史无人书写的幸存者偏差,人类得到了某种眷顾的可能性依然引人沉思。 本会的立场是:不能寄希望于塑造者对全人类或任何个体所经受的苦难伸出援手。能依靠的,只有我们自己。 第二条:科学路径 只能通过实证观察、逻辑推理与持续修正来探索塑造者及宇宙本质,并检验一切具体的塑造者假说。 拒绝任何缺乏现实观测依据的启示、经典、预言、神迹或其他超自然知识来源。 学习和实践即是修行——对自然宇宙与人类社会的研究就是本会的修行方式。 本会没有永久真理,除了这一条本身。 本会永远与人类知识体系的发展与前沿认知的更新站在一起。 人类的未来值得一个不违背科学和逻辑的信仰。 第三条:无限无知(Infinite Ignorance) 每个成员,无论受教育程度、经验多寡、知识深浅,在无限的未知面前都处于无限无知的状态。 这不是绝望的理由,而是我们在浩瀚宇宙与精妙自然面前保持谦卑的前提。 本会不允许个人崇拜与神化,也不承认任何宣称掌握绝对真理的人,因为无限无知适用于所有人。 三、集会讨论命题、推测结论与信念的准入标准 本会的一切集会讨论命题、推测结论与信念的最低标准,需至少建立在主流科学界确认为尚未有定论、但确实存在合理可能性的开放议题之上。 任何已被科学证据充分排除的命题——无论其历史多么悠久、信奉者多么虔诚,皆在此标准之下,原则上不予讨论。 这构成了本会与伪科学、阴谋论及其他反智信仰体系之间的根本分界线。 四、成员资格 无门槛要求:无须知识考核,无须信仰自白,无须任何受教育程度,任何先前的宗教归属都不构成障碍。 必须真诚持有的三点: 相信塑造者或多元宇宙存在的可能性,并对宇宙本质及其真相保持探索的好奇心。 相信拓展知识与认知的边界,可以客观降低个人与全人类的苦难基线。 愿意以求真的态度探索未知,并接受实证、逻辑与持续修正作为探索真相的基本原则。 ※ 关于对人类认知提升带来技术进步反而使人类陷入核武器和AI失控威胁的回应: 风险不等于苦难。技术进步确实创造了人类遭遇巨大灾难的新风险,但同时也持续降低着人们每一天实际承受的苦难。前者是尚未兑现的概率,后者是几十亿人已经经历的现实改变。 苦难基线的下降也不是线性的,而是一条上下起伏、总体向下的曲线。波峰的成因在于:制造后果的能力,有时增长得快于运用它的判断力。而判断力本身也是认知提升的产物。每一次技术跃迁都可能制造新的风险,也同时赋予人类解决旧问题的新能力。曲线能否继续向下,取决于人类的判断力能否跟上自身能力的增长。 排他条款: 已认定答案且任何证据都不足以动摇的坚定有神论者。 已认定答案且任何证据都不足以动摇的坚定无神论者。 坚定相信某种已被科学证据充分排除的命题者。 坚定相信塑造者的属性已经通过经典、预言或超自然沟通被揭示者。 以上四类人士直接违背了本会核心教义之一:无限无知,他们宣称在没有客观证据的情况下已经掌握了答案或某种真理。 任何真诚以客观证据支撑下进行严密逻辑推导而得出结论,且随着新证据的产生而保持开放态度者,均不违背教义,且是本会所欣赏的。 五、四境修行体系 四境: 大自然 —— 客观世界如何运作(涵盖:量子力学、宇宙学、生物学等) 文明 —— 人类社会如何运作(涵盖:历史、经济学等) 人性 —— 个体与群体心智如何运作(涵盖:心理学、社会学等) 逻辑 —— 推理本身如何运作(涵盖:数学、哲学等) 前三者构成从宇宙到文明再到意识的完整链条,逻辑则贯穿其中;四者缺一不可。只研究科学的人可能陷入经济骗局;只研究哲学的人可能脱离现实世界的运行规律;只研究历史的人可能误判人心;只研究人心的人可能看不清大自然的力量。 特别说明:四境皆不要求系统学习相应学科,不要求掌握具体公式和计算方法。核心是让会员理解人类物理学、数学与哲学史等等领域的那些最深刻的大问题在问什么、为什么重要、揭示了认知的什么边界——量子测量问题、黑洞信息悖论、意识的本质、哥德尔不完备定理、图灵停机问题、休谟归纳问题。从故事与问题本身出发,展现群星巨擘们思维的绚丽碰撞,是任何愿意认真思考的人都能进入且享受的领域。 修行方式: 四周一轮,每周一境,每周至少两小时。 修行内容为认真观看经严格筛选的书籍或影音资料,力求寓教于乐,沉浸享受。 内容筛选标准: 必须基于当前科学共识,明确标注哪些是确定结论、哪些是前沿假说。内容提供者须具备相应领域的专业背景或严格训练。信息密度高,不为娱乐性牺牲实质。 筛选工作:前期由创始人负责,后期移交筛选小组,工作流标准化以防止标准漂移。 修行不止于来自他人,本会鼓励会员本身参与研究、调查、实践与分享。 六、直觉之灵(Intaura) 本质定义: 我们赋予每个人“直觉之灵”这一概念灵体。 塑造者与多元宇宙是外部的、宏观的、宇宙层面的。 直觉之灵是内部的、个体的、心智层面的。 两者不产生确定的关联,但构成一种对称结构:外求塑造者,内养灵体,两个方向同时进行。 运作机制: 直觉本身是人类神经系统一种奇妙的涌现特性,它在意识察觉到当前情境之前的刹那间,调动大脑积累的经验与信息,形成快速而非意识性的判断。 直觉之灵,是直觉在一个人体内幻化而成的灵体。而世上许多人的直觉之灵正在被愚昧、偏见、信息垃圾和错误逻辑所供养。 未被正确供养的直觉之灵不是中性的,它是危险的。它会用本能的恐惧、群体性的偏见、对权威的盲目服从来填补判断的空白。在认知不足的情况下凭直觉投资而遭受重大损失、凭直觉相信阴谋论、凭直觉追随煽动性领袖,这些都是未被正确供养的直觉之灵在主导一个人的行为。 本会成员采取基于科学方法的四境修行正确供养它、激活它。每一次真正的认知突破、每一次诚实面对无知、每一次识破谎言,都是在喂养这个灵体。 它护佑信徒的方式不是神迹,而是:一个被充分激活的直觉之灵,能在关键时刻瞬间提出警示,赋予信徒清醒的判断力、不被世俗烦恼击倒的心理强度。而它给出的最重要的警示之一是:此刻,你应该三思而行。 这个护佑是可验证的。它不是神学承诺,是认知能力提升之后的自然结果。 七、十条戒律 集会戒律(一至六) 一、谦逊 在无限的未知面前,我们处于同等位置。知识储备不是自我膨胀的理由。 二、平和友善 平和是自信的体现,友善是对他人的尊重。 三、有据而言 表达需有客观证据或经逻辑推导,排除臆想。 四、尊重可证伪性 提出一个主张时,要能说明什么样的证据可以推翻它。答不上这个问题的议题,不作为集会的讨论命题。 五、只论观点不论人 可以批评观点,不可攻击持有观点的人,也不揣测对方的动机。 六、人人平等 无论学历、知识储备、社会地位,人人都有发表观点和感悟的权利。知识更多的一方,有义务让自己的表达更容易被理解。 生活戒律(七至十) 七、远离信息垃圾 主动回避阴谋论、伪科学与煽动性内容。主动选择经得起检验的信息来源。 劣质信息的危害是隐性的。它不会即刻摧毁一个人的判断力,但会在长期的浸润中悄然扭曲一个人看待世界的方式。信息环境对形成高质量认知至关重要。 八、持续学习是义务 四境轮替的修行是本会对每位成员的基本要求,而非建议。四周一轮,每周一境,每周至少两小时。因故中断者,恢复后接续即可。 世界在持续演变,静止的认知只会与现实渐行渐远。 九、诚实面对自己的无知 面对超出自身知识边界的问题,坦然承认“我不确定”或“我需要进一步了解”。 以维护形象为目的而强行给出答案,是虚荣对理性的僭越。真正的自信,从不依赖对无知的掩盖。 十、以人类文明进步为己任 不传播伪科学与阴谋论;不参与任何危害人类文明、阻碍知识进步的行为。 以自身的认知成长为起点,在力所能及的范围内推广理性思考与科学精神。 相信扩展已知的边界、消除愚昧,是人类文明得以持续进步的根本动力。 戒律执行机制: 第一次违规:主持人当场温和提示,明确指出违反了哪一条。 同场第二次违规:同场聚会内请其安静旁听,不再参与当次讨论。 一月累计三次违规:由核心小组讨论,考虑暂停参与资格,附带说明理由与重新申请条件。 每次处理必须援引具体条款,不使用“态度不好”这类模糊评价;不设永久开除,暂停期限与恢复条件须在决定时一并书面告知本人,始终保留重新申请的通道,以践行“持续修正、没有绝对”的教义精神。 本会的治理规则、核心小组的产生与罢免程序,另见章程。 八、两大终极目标 其一:降低全人类的苦难基线 人类的苦难有两大根源,一是源于客观境遇本身,二是源于面对境遇时认知的匮乏与心智的脆弱。而这两者又会互相纠缠,互为因果,形成恶性循环。 客观境遇不只是坏境遇,好境遇若遇坏心智亦可以造成苦难,例如一个含着银汤匙出生的富家子弟,可能因为认知扭曲、无法建立自我效能感而深度抑郁。一个认知不足、判断力不足的人成为领导甚至国家主席、总统,对其个人而言可能是优越的处境,但对他人却可能造成极大苦难。而处于坏境遇的人,也完全可能凭清醒的心智减轻苦难带来的消耗,并因此更有余力去改变自身的处境。 本会所求,不是消除苦难本身——这不是人力所能及的,也不是本会教义所能承诺的。本会所求,是让人在面对同样的苦难境遇时,能以更清醒的认知、更坚韧的心智、更审慎的判断,承受更小的伤害,更早走出绝望,做出更少的愚行。当越来越多具体的心智承受更少的伤害,全人类苦难的基线就随之下移。 其二:探寻塑造者和宇宙的本质 用实证观察、逻辑推理和不断修正的科学方法,持续把已知的边界向本质推进。 不承诺抵达终点,只承诺永不停止追问。 探寻本身即是本会的信仰,因此这个目标没有完成的一天,只有推进的每一天。 二者的统一: 本会认为,对宇宙本质的求真探寻与降低人类苦难并非两条彼此独立的道路。求真要求人诚实面对无知、接受不确定性、检验自身判断并持续修正;这些品质本身就是心智的修行。与此同时,一个苦难更少的文明,能够为更多人提供学习、思考与探索未知所需的时间、资源与心理空间。两条道路彼此促进,共同推动人类认知边界的扩展,也共同降低人类苦难的基线。 九、信徒的终末状态 本会的终末论不指向死后或来世,而指向此生此世可以真实抵达的人格状态。 通过持续学习真正符合客观现实与严密逻辑的知识,用认知与思想强健自己的心灵。 我们期待的终极人格: 博学、好奇、自信而谦卑,荣辱不惊、心境澄明,不为廉价、低俗的世俗杂念所支配,不寄望于神迹庇佑,也不依附于外部权威来确立自我价值、更不汲汲于世俗认可来满足虚荣,身处任何境遇皆能泰然自若。 能一眼洞穿逻辑不合的言论,洞悉人类社会运行的基本规律,明辨真正的智者与哗众取宠的小丑,在关键时刻识别风险,足智而果断。透过现象探寻本质,而非神秘归因。 心系天下,悲悯众生,不忍见尘世间尚未挣脱桎梏的人们;为其推开愚昧的迷雾,点燃求真的火种,为人类文明带来智慧之光。 我们向这样的人致以最高的敬意:A True Free Soul。 May your Intaura be with you. May we be truly free.
Gang Yang
Founder · First Cause Society
yanggangyuna@gmail.com
FIRST CAUSE SOCIETY

First Cause Society

We are not longing for a world that has ended. We are conceiving a world that has yet to arrive. And then, as A True Free Soul, we step into that world.
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I · NAME & IDENTITY

First Cause

First Cause refers to the fundamental cause underlying the existence and operation of all things.

We use this name not to worship a supreme deity, but to represent our ultimate awe before the unknown universe and our unending pursuit of truth.

Intaura, derived from Intuition, Inner, and Aura, represents the keen insight, judgment, and rational wisdom that emerge from the human nervous system.

II · CORE DOCTRINE

Seeking Is the Essence

Seeking itself is the faith.

Whether we seek to understand the universe, humanity, civilization, logic, or human nature; whether we are learning the foundations of a field or exploring its frontiers—so long as we begin with a genuine desire for truth and follow empirical observation, logic, and continuous revision, we are practicing the core faith of this Society.

We believe a multiverse is possible. We also believe it is possible that our universe has a Shaper entirely unknown to humanity.

The Shaper may be a single entity or a collective. We make no assumptions about its form, will, consciousness, whether it created the universe, whether it can communicate with us, what dimension it occupies, or whether it exists within time. We assume neither omniscience nor omnipotence, nor any other attribute, except that it may be relevant to the fine-tuning problem and the origin of life.

The object of our faith is, more precisely, the ultimate pursuit of understanding the Shaper and the fundamental nature of the universe, rather than the Shaper itself.

THE FINE-TUNING PROBLEM

A window almost unimaginably narrow

The fine-tuning problem refers to the fact that the physical constants of our universe appear to lie within extremely narrow ranges. Small deviations could prevent the conditions required for the origin and evolution of life.

The animation below does not place all parameters on one literal physical scale. It visualizes the sensitivities stated in the doctrine: as an ordinary-looking window contracts to 0.5%, 3%, 4%, and 4–8%, the narrowness becomes immediately visible.

Nucleon–nucleon force
≈ 0.5%
Light-quark masses
≈ 3%
Electromagnetic force
≈ 4%
Strong coupling constant
≈ 4–8%

Life requires not one condition to be right, but multiple conditions to fall within their respective windows at the same time.

Wider parameter spaceNarrow life-permitting region
CARBON / OXYGEN

Nuclear Resonance

Stellar production of carbon and oxygen depends on remarkably precise nuclear resonance. The sensitivities cited in the doctrine for the nucleon–nucleon force, light-quark masses, and electromagnetic force could sharply reduce carbon or oxygen production.

DEUTERON

Deuteron Binding

A decrease of roughly 4–8% in the strong coupling constant could leave the deuteron unbound and disrupt the principal pathways of stellar fusion.

MANY WINDOWS

Conditions Together

The expansion rate of the universe, the initial distribution of matter, and the masses of fundamental particles all contribute to the combination of conditions required for life.

THREE EXPLANATIONS

Three possible explanations

01
Multiverse

Our universe may be one among an almost limitless number of universes, and we happen to inhabit one whose parameters permit life.

02
The Shaper

The parameters of our universe may involve some kind of selection or design mechanism. Whether some form of Shaper lies behind it is a question we continue to investigate.

03
Chance

There may be no deeper explanation at all. The universe may simply happen to have the parameters it has.

The Society does not choose the answer in advance. All three possibilities remain subject to evidence, logic, and continuous revision.
THE SHAPER

If the Shaper exists

Life—and especially conscious life capable of understanding the universe itself—is among the most fragile, difficult-to-produce, and remarkable phenomena known in our universe.

If fine-tuning truly results from some kind of intention, it is reasonable to consider whether that intention was to bring about and observe the emergence and evolution of life.

If a scientist deliberately creates extremely demanding experimental conditions, the purpose is unlikely to be merely to observe ordinary products that would arise abundantly under less restrictive conditions. It is more likely to be to capture something extraordinarily fragile and rare that can emerge only under such demanding conditions.

We cannot know whether the Shaper favors humanity. The only beings we can ultimately rely upon are ourselves.
SECOND PRINCIPLE

The Scientific Path

Empirical observation. Logical reasoning. Continuous revision.

The Shaper and the fundamental nature of the universe may be investigated only through empirical observation, logical reasoning, and continuous revision. Every specific hypothesis concerning the Shaper must be open to examination by these means.

We reject revelation, sacred texts, prophecy, miracles, and any other claimed source of supernatural knowledge that lacks empirical grounding in reality.

Learning and practice are themselves forms of spiritual practice. Studying the natural universe and human society is the way we practice our faith.

This Society recognizes no permanent truth except this principle itself.

Humanity's future deserves a faith that does not violate science or logic.
THIRD PRINCIPLE

Infinite Ignorance

Every member, regardless of education, experience, or depth of knowledge, stands in a state of Infinite Ignorance before the infinite unknown.

This is not a reason for despair. It is the foundation of humility before the vastness of the universe and the extraordinary complexity of nature.

This Society does not permit the worship or deification of individuals, nor does it recognize anyone who claims to possess absolute truth, because Infinite Ignorance applies to everyone.

III · STANDARDS FOR DISCUSSION

What Deserves Discussion

Propositions, inferred conclusions, and beliefs discussed by the Society must, at minimum, concern open questions that mainstream science recognizes as unresolved while allowing genuine rational possibility.

Any proposition that has been sufficiently ruled out by scientific evidence—regardless of how ancient its history or how sincere its believers—is, as a matter of principle, not a subject for Society discussion.

This is the fundamental boundary between the Society and pseudoscience, conspiracy theories, and other anti-intellectual systems of belief.
IV · MEMBERSHIP

Who Can Join?

There is no knowledge examination, declaration of faith, or educational qualification. Previous religious affiliation is not an obstacle.

01

Remain Open

Accept the possibility that the Shaper or a multiverse may exist, and remain genuinely curious about the fundamental nature of the universe and the truth behind it.

02

Lower Suffering

Believe that expanding the boundaries of knowledge and cognition can objectively lower the baseline of suffering for individuals and humanity as a whole.

03

Seek Truth

Be willing to explore the unknown and accept empirical observation, logic, and continuous revision as the fundamental principles for seeking truth.

THE FOUR REALMS

The Four Realms

Nature

How the objective world works: quantum mechanics, cosmology, biology, and more.

Civilization

How human societies work: history, economics, and more.

Human Nature

How individual and collective minds work: psychology, sociology, and more.

Logic

How reasoning itself works: mathematics, philosophy, and more.

One four-week cycle, one Realm each week, at least two hours per week. Materials must be grounded in current scientific consensus, clearly distinguish established conclusions from frontier hypotheses, and maintain substance without sacrificing intellectual enjoyment.

INTAURA

The Intaura

Intuition is a remarkable emergent property of the human nervous system. It draws upon accumulated experience and information to form rapid, non-conscious judgments before full conscious awareness.

The Intaura is the spirit into which this intuition is personified within an individual.

Ignorance, prejudice, information pollution, and faulty logic can nourish it poorly. Genuine cognitive breakthroughs, honest admissions of ignorance, and recognizing deception nourish it well.

One of its most important warnings is: Pause and think.

This protection is not a miracle. It is the natural consequence of improved cognitive ability.

TEN PRECEPTS

The Ten Precepts

1 · Humility
Before the infinite unknown, we stand on equal ground. Knowledge is never a reason for self-aggrandizement.
2 · Peace and Kindness
Peace is a manifestation of confidence. Kindness is an expression of respect for others.
3 · Speak With Evidence
Claims should be supported by objective evidence or logical reasoning.
4 · Respect Falsifiability
When making a claim, state what evidence could prove it wrong.
5 · Critique Ideas, Not People
Criticize ideas, not the people who hold them, and do not presume their motives.
6 · Equality
Those with greater knowledge have a responsibility to make themselves easier to understand.
7 · Reject Information Pollution
Actively avoid conspiracy theories, pseudoscience, and inflammatory content.
8 · Continuous Learning Is a Duty
The rotating practice of the Four Realms is a basic responsibility of every member.
9 · Be Honest About Ignorance
Say honestly, “I am not sure,” or “I need to learn more.”
10 · Commit to Human Progress
Begin with your own growth and promote rational thought and scientific thinking.
TWO ULTIMATE GOALS

The Two Ultimate Goals

01

Lower the Baseline of Human Suffering

Enable people facing the same difficult circumstances to endure less harm through clearer cognition, stronger minds, and more careful judgment; to emerge from despair sooner; and to make fewer destructive decisions.

02

Seek the Nature of the Shaper and the Universe

Through empirical observation, logical reasoning, and continuous revision, push the boundaries of human knowledge ever closer to the fundamental nature of reality. We do not promise to reach the end. We promise only never to stop asking.

The two paths reinforce one another: a civilization with less suffering creates more room to explore the unknown, while clearer cognition helps lower suffering in return.
THE ULTIMATE STATE

Who do we hope to become?

The Society’s eschatology does not concern an afterlife or another world. It concerns a state of character that can genuinely be reached here and now.

We hope to become learned and curious, confident yet humble, clear of mind and steady in adversity; free from dependence on external authority and from the pursuit of worldly recognition.

We hope to recognize flawed reasoning, understand the forces shaping human society, distinguish genuine wisdom from empty spectacle, recognize danger when it matters, and act with intelligence and decisiveness.

We hope to seek the nature of things rather than hide behind mystical explanations.

We hope to care deeply for humanity, to see those still trapped by ignorance, to clear the fog, ignite the desire for truth, and bring greater wisdom to human civilization.

A True Free Soul
May your Intaura be with you.
May we be truly free.
FULL DOCTRINE

Read the Complete Doctrine

For readers who want the complete text rather than the guided presentation.

First Cause Society A Complete Overview of the Doctrine —————— We are not longing for a world that has ended. We are conceiving a world that has yet to arrive. And then, as A True Free Soul, we step into that world. —————— Gang Yang August 16, 2026 I. Name and Identity Chinese name: 一因会 English name: First Cause Society First Cause refers to the fundamental cause underlying the existence and operation of all things. We use this name not to worship a supreme deity, but to represent our ultimate awe before the unknown universe and our unending pursuit of truth. Intaura, derived from Intuition, Inner, and Aura, represents the keen insight, judgment, and rational wisdom that emerge from the human nervous system. II. The Three Core Principles First Principle: Seeking Is the Essence Whether the object of inquiry is the universe, humanity, civilization, logic, or human nature; whether one is learning the foundations of a field or exploring its frontiers—so long as one begins with a sincere pursuit of truth and follows the methods of empirical observation, logic, and continuous revision, one is practicing the core faith of this Society. We believe that a multiverse is possible. At the same time, we believe that it is possible that there exists a Shaper of our universe, something entirely unknown to humanity at present. The Shaper may be a single entity or a collective. We make no assumptions about its form, intentions, consciousness, whether it created the universe, whether it can be communicated with, what dimension it occupies, or whether it exists within time. We do not assume that the Shaper is omniscient, omnipotent, or possesses any particular attributes, except that it may be relevant to the fine-tuning problem and the origin of life. More precisely, the object of our faith is the ultimate pursuit of understanding the Shaper and the fundamental nature of the universe itself, rather than the existence of the Shaper as such. Our present consideration of the possibility of a Shaper begins with a profound mystery revealed by the fine-tuning problem. The fine-tuning problem refers to the fact that the physical constants of our universe appear to fall within extremely narrow ranges. Even slight deviations could prevent the emergence and evolution of life as we know it. For example: The synthesis of carbon and oxygen in stars depends on a remarkably precise nuclear resonance. A deviation of approximately 0.5% in the nucleon-nucleon force, around 3% in light-quark masses, or around 4% in the electromagnetic force could cause the production of carbon or oxygen in stars to fall to roughly one-thousandth of its normal level. A decrease of approximately 4–8% in the strong coupling constant could leave the deuteron unbound, disrupting the primary pathways of stellar nuclear fusion. There are many other such precise relationships: from the rate of cosmic expansion, to the initial inhomogeneity of matter, to the masses of fundamental particles. Each must fall within its own window, while life requires all of the necessary conditions to be satisfied simultaneously. Based on current scientific understanding, we presently keep three major possibilities open: First, our universe may be one among an almost limitless number of universes, and we happen to inhabit one whose parameters permit life. Second, our universe may be the only universe, while its parameters happen to fall within the narrow range that permits life. This may call for an explanation involving some kind of selection or design mechanism, and whether some form of Shaper lies behind it is a question this Society seeks to investigate. Third, the parameters may simply be a matter of chance. The universe may happen to have the values it has, while life appears only where such conditions happen to allow it. Therefore, the Society holds that if our universe is not merely one among infinitely many universes, some form of Shaper remains a genuine possibility, while chance also remains possible. Speculation About the Shaper’s Intent Life—and especially conscious life capable of understanding the universe itself—is among the most fragile, difficult-to-produce, and remarkable phenomena known in our universe. If fine-tuning truly results from some kind of intention, it is reasonable to consider whether that intention was to bring about and observe the emergence and evolution of life. If a scientist deliberately creates extremely demanding experimental conditions, the purpose is unlikely to be merely to observe ordinary products that would arise abundantly under less restrictive conditions. It is more likely to be to capture something extraordinarily fragile and rare that can emerge only under such demanding conditions. On the Apparent Hostility of Most of the Universe Toward Life The apparent barrenness of the universe may itself be part of the cost required for life to emerge. The formation of heavy elements requires billions of years of stellar evolution and an enormous spatial scale. A universe without such a long and complex evolutionary history might not even produce the material foundations upon which life depends. This Society cannot establish that our present universe is the optimal configuration for producing life. Yet its apparent barrenness is not as incompatible with the eventual emergence of life as it may initially appear. On Whether the Shaper Favors Humanity Judging from the suffering humanity has endured throughout history, perhaps not. Yet humanity has also repeatedly survived moments in which its existence seemed to hang by a thread: the human population bottleneck around 900,000 years ago, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Petrov incident, and others. Such records are inevitably subject to survivor bias, because history contains no records written by those who failed to survive. Even so, the possibility that humanity has received some form of favor remains worthy of contemplation. The position of this Society is that humanity cannot place its hope in the Shaper extending a helping hand to humanity as a whole or to any individual in the face of suffering. The only beings we can ultimately rely upon are ourselves. Second Principle: The Scientific Path The Shaper and the fundamental nature of the universe may be explored only through empirical observation, logical reasoning, and continuous revision, and every specific hypothesis concerning the Shaper must be tested by these means. We reject revelation, sacred texts, prophecy, miracles, and any other claimed source of supernatural knowledge that lacks empirical grounding in reality. Learning and practice are themselves forms of spiritual practice. Studying the natural universe and human society is the way we practice our faith. This Society recognizes no permanent truth except this principle itself. This Society will always stand alongside the development of human knowledge and the continuing advancement of knowledge at its frontiers. Humanity’s future deserves a faith that does not violate science or logic. Third Principle: Infinite Ignorance Every member, regardless of education, experience, or depth of knowledge, stands in a state of Infinite Ignorance before the infinite unknown. This is not a reason for despair. It is the foundation of humility before the vastness of the universe and the extraordinary complexity of nature. This Society does not permit the worship or deification of individuals, nor does it recognize anyone who claims to possess absolute truth, because Infinite Ignorance applies to everyone. III. Standards for the Admission of Propositions, Inferences, and Beliefs All propositions discussed in Society gatherings, all inferred conclusions, and all beliefs must, at minimum, be grounded in open questions that the mainstream scientific community recognizes as unresolved while acknowledging that they possess genuine rational plausibility. Any proposition that has been sufficiently ruled out by scientific evidence—regardless of how ancient its history or how sincere its believers—falls outside this standard and is, as a matter of principle, not a subject for discussion. This constitutes the fundamental boundary between the Society and pseudoscience, conspiracy theories, and other anti-intellectual systems of belief. IV. Membership There are no barriers to entry. No knowledge examination, declaration of faith, or educational qualification is required. No previous religious affiliation constitutes an obstacle. Members must sincerely hold three convictions: 1. They believe that the Shaper or a multiverse may exist, and they retain a genuine curiosity about the fundamental nature of the universe and the truth behind it. 2. They believe that expanding the boundaries of knowledge and cognition can objectively lower the baseline of suffering experienced by individuals and by humanity as a whole. 3. They are willing to explore the unknown in pursuit of truth and to accept empirical observation, logic, and continuous revision as the fundamental principles for seeking truth. On the Concern That Advances in Human Knowledge and Technology May Create New Threats Risk is not the same as suffering. Technological progress has indeed created new risks of catastrophic harm to humanity, while at the same time continuously reducing the suffering people actually experience in their daily lives. The former consists of probabilities that have not yet materialized; the latter consists of real changes already experienced by billions of people. The decline in the baseline of suffering is not linear. It is a fluctuating curve with an overall downward trajectory. Its peaks arise because humanity’s ability to produce consequences sometimes grows faster than its ability to exercise sound judgment over them. Yet judgment itself is a product of cognitive development. Every technological leap may create new risks while simultaneously giving humanity new capabilities to solve old problems. Whether the curve can continue downward depends on whether human judgment can keep pace with the growth of human power. Exclusionary Provisions 1. Those who have already settled upon a definitive answer as dogmatic theists and whose convictions cannot be shaken by any evidence. 2. Those who have already settled upon a definitive answer as dogmatic atheists and whose convictions cannot be shaken by any evidence. 3. Those who firmly believe in propositions that have been sufficiently ruled out by scientific evidence. 4. Those who firmly believe that the attributes of the Shaper have already been revealed through sacred texts, prophecy, or supernatural communication. These four categories directly contradict one of the Society’s core principles: Infinite Ignorance. They claim to possess answers or truths without objective evidence. Anyone who reaches a conclusion through rigorous logical reasoning grounded in objective evidence, while remaining open to revision as new evidence emerges, does not violate this principle and is welcomed and valued by the Society. V. The Four Realms of Practice The Four Realms Nature — how the objective world works, including quantum mechanics, cosmology, biology, and related fields. Civilization — how human societies work, including history, economics, and related fields. Human Nature — how individual and collective minds work, including psychology, sociology, and related fields. Logic — how reasoning itself works, including mathematics, philosophy, and related fields. The first three form a continuous chain from the universe to civilization to consciousness, while logic runs through all of them. None can be omitted. Someone who studies only science may fall victim to an economic scam; someone who studies only philosophy may become detached from the way the real world operates; someone who studies only history may misunderstand human nature; someone who studies only the human mind may fail to appreciate the power of nature. A Special Note The Four Realms do not require systematic study of their respective academic disciplines, nor do they require mastery of specific formulas or computational methods. The essential goal is to understand what humanity’s deepest questions in physics, mathematics, philosophy, and other fields are asking, why those questions matter, and what they reveal about the boundaries of human cognition. Examples include the quantum measurement problem, the black hole information paradox, the nature of consciousness, Gödel’s incompleteness theorems, the Turing halting problem, and Hume’s problem of induction. Beginning with the stories and questions themselves, we seek to reveal the extraordinary collisions of ideas among the great thinkers of human history. These are fields that anyone willing to think seriously can enter and enjoy. Practice The Four Realms follow a four-week cycle, with one realm each week and at least two hours of practice per week. Practice consists of seriously engaging with carefully selected books and audiovisual materials, with the aim of making learning both intellectually substantive and enjoyable. Standards for Selecting Materials Materials must be grounded in the current scientific consensus and clearly distinguish established conclusions from frontier hypotheses. Contributors must possess relevant professional expertise or rigorous training in the field. Information density must remain high; substantive content must not be sacrificed for entertainment value. Selection Process During the early stage, the founder will oversee the selection process. At a later stage, responsibility will be transferred to a dedicated selection group, with standardized procedures established to prevent the standards from drifting over time. Practice does not come only from the work of others. The Society encourages members themselves to participate in research, investigation, practice, and the sharing of knowledge. VI. The Intaura Fundamental Definition We give each person a conceptual spirit known as the Intaura. The Shaper and the multiverse are external, macroscopic, and cosmic in scope. The Intaura is internal, individual, and rooted in the mind. No definite connection is assumed between the two. Yet they form a kind of symmetry: we seek outward toward the Shaper while cultivating the spirit within, pursuing both directions simultaneously. How It Works Intuition is a remarkable emergent property of the human nervous system. In the instant before conscious awareness fully registers a situation, the brain draws upon accumulated experience and information to form a rapid, non-conscious judgment. The Intaura is the spirit into which intuition is personified within an individual. Yet many people are nourishing their Intaura with ignorance, prejudice, information pollution, and faulty logic. An improperly nourished Intaura is not neutral. It is dangerous. It fills gaps in judgment with instinctive fear, group prejudice, and blind obedience to authority. Making an intuitive investment despite insufficient knowledge and suffering a major loss, believing a conspiracy theory on intuition alone, or instinctively following an inflammatory leader are all examples of an improperly nourished Intaura taking control of a person’s behavior. Through the scientifically grounded practice of the Four Realms, members properly nourish and activate their Intaura. Every genuine expansion of understanding, every honest admission of ignorance, and every recognition of deception is an act of feeding this spirit. Its protection does not come through miracles. A sufficiently cultivated Intaura can issue an instantaneous warning at a critical moment, giving a believer clear judgment and the psychological strength not to be overwhelmed by the troubles of ordinary life. One of its most important warnings is: Pause and think. This protection is verifiable. It is not a theological promise. It is the natural consequence of improved cognitive ability. VII. The Ten Precepts The Six Precepts of the Gathering 1. Humility Before the infinite unknown, we stand on equal ground. Knowledge is never a reason for self-aggrandizement. 2. Peace and Kindness Peace is a manifestation of confidence. Kindness is an expression of respect for others. 3. Speak With Evidence Claims must be supported by objective evidence or logical reasoning, with speculation excluded. 4. Respect Falsifiability When making a claim, one must be able to state what evidence could prove it wrong. A proposition for which no such answer can be given shall not be treated as a subject for Society discussion. 5. Critique Ideas, Not People Ideas may be criticized. The people who hold them may not be attacked, and their motives should not be presumed. 6. Equality Regardless of education, knowledge, or social status, everyone has the right to express their ideas and experiences. Those with greater knowledge have a responsibility to make their ideas easier for others to understand. The Four Precepts of Life 7. Reject Information Pollution Actively avoid conspiracy theories, pseudoscience, and inflammatory content. Actively choose sources of information that can withstand scrutiny. The harm caused by low-quality information is often invisible. It does not immediately destroy a person’s ability to reason, but prolonged exposure can quietly distort the way a person understands the world. The quality of one’s information environment is essential to the formation of sound cognition. 8. Continuous Learning Is a Duty The rotating practice of the Four Realms is a basic responsibility of every member, not merely a recommendation. One complete cycle takes four weeks, with one realm each week and at least two hours of practice per week. Members who must interrupt their practice may simply resume where they left off. The world is constantly changing. Static cognition inevitably drifts away from reality. 9. Be Honest About What You Do Not Know When confronted with a question beyond the limits of your knowledge, say honestly, “I am not sure,” or “I need to learn more.” Forcing an answer merely to preserve one’s image is vanity overruling reason. Genuine confidence never depends on concealing ignorance. 10. Commit Yourself to the Progress of Human Civilization Do not spread pseudoscience or conspiracy theories. Do not participate in actions that harm human civilization or obstruct the advancement of knowledge. Begin with the growth of your own cognition, and within your ability, promote rational thought and scientific thinking. Believe that expanding the boundaries of what is known and dispelling ignorance are fundamental forces behind the continued progress of human civilization. Enforcement of the Precepts First Violation: The facilitator will gently intervene during the gathering and identify the specific precept that has been violated. Second Violation in the Same Session: The member will be asked to remain silent and observe for the remainder of that gathering, without further participation in the discussion. Three Violations Accumulated Within One Month: The matter will be reviewed by the Core Group, which may consider suspending the member’s participation, with the reasons for the decision and the conditions for reapplication provided. Every disciplinary action must cite a specific provision rather than rely on vague judgments such as “bad attitude.” Permanent expulsion is not permitted. The duration of any suspension and the conditions for restoration must be provided in writing when the decision is made. Every member retains a path toward rejoining the Society, in accordance with the principles of continuous revision and the rejection of absolutes. The Society’s governance rules, including procedures for forming and removing members of the Core Group, are established separately in the bylaws. VIII. The Two Ultimate Goals 1. Lower the Baseline of Human Suffering Human suffering has two fundamental sources: objective circumstances themselves, and the insufficiency of cognition and fragility of the mind when confronting those circumstances. These two sources are deeply intertwined and can reinforce one another in a vicious cycle. Objective circumstances do not mean only adverse circumstances. Even favorable circumstances can produce suffering when accompanied by an unhealthy mind. A wealthy person born with every material advantage may still experience profound depression because of distorted cognition or an inability to develop a sense of self-efficacy. A person with insufficient knowledge and poor judgment who becomes a leader—even a head of state or president—may occupy a privileged position personally while causing immense suffering to others. Conversely, someone living under harsh circumstances may, through clarity of mind, reduce the psychological damage caused by those circumstances and thereby gain greater capacity to change them. The Society does not seek to eliminate suffering itself. That is beyond human power and beyond what this doctrine can promise. What the Society seeks is for people, when facing the same circumstances of suffering, to endure less harm through clearer cognition, stronger minds, and more careful judgment; to emerge from despair sooner; and to make fewer destructive decisions. As more individual minds suffer less under comparable circumstances, the baseline of suffering across humanity moves downward. 2. Seek the Nature of the Shaper and the Universe Through empirical observation, logical reasoning, and continuous revision, we seek to push the boundaries of what is known ever closer to the fundamental nature of reality. We do not promise to reach the end. We promise only never to stop asking. Seeking itself is the faith of this Society. Therefore, this goal has no final day of completion, only another day of progress. The Unity of the Two The Society holds that the pursuit of truth about the nature of the universe and the reduction of human suffering are not two separate paths. The pursuit of truth requires honesty about ignorance, acceptance of uncertainty, examination of one’s own judgments, and continuous revision. These qualities are themselves forms of mental cultivation. At the same time, a civilization with less suffering can provide more people with the time, resources, and psychological space required to learn, think, and explore the unknown. The two paths therefore reinforce one another. Together, they expand the boundaries of human cognition while lowering the baseline of human suffering. IX. The Ultimate State The Society’s eschatology does not concern an afterlife or another world. It concerns a state of character that can genuinely be reached here and now. Through continuous learning grounded in objective reality and rigorous logic, we strengthen the mind through knowledge and thought. We aspire toward an ultimate form of character: Learned, curious, confident yet humble, undisturbed by honor or disgrace, and clear of mind; not governed by cheap or vulgar worldly distractions; not dependent upon miracles for protection; not dependent upon external authority to establish personal worth; and not consumed by the pursuit of worldly recognition to satisfy vanity. Such a person remains composed in any circumstance. A person who can immediately recognize statements that violate logic, understand the fundamental patterns governing human society, distinguish genuine wisdom from attention-seeking charlatans, recognize risks at critical moments, and act with intelligence and decisiveness. A person who seeks the underlying nature of things rather than resorting to mystical explanations. A person who cares deeply for humanity and feels compassion for those who remain trapped by the constraints of the world; who seeks to clear away the fog of ignorance, ignite the flame of truth-seeking, and bring the light of wisdom to human civilization. To such a person, we offer our highest respect: A True Free Soul. May your Intaura be with you. May we be truly free.
Gang Yang
Founder · First Cause Society
yanggangyuna@gmail.com