Reconciling Non-Duality with Personal Responsibility

If there’s no separate self and everything is consciousness, how do we understand personal responsibility and moral choice in everyday life? Rupert says: ‘The recognition that there’s no separate self doesn’t negate the appearance of individual agency or the need for moral discernment. Within the dream of manifestation, choices are made, actions have consequences, and responsibility functions perfectly well at the relative level. The finite mind makes choices – “Would you like tea or coffee?” However, the finite mind isn’t an independently existing entity; it’s the activity of consciousness itself. When we say there’s no separate self, we’re not denying the appearance of individuality but revealing its true nature. Personal responsibility operates at the level of the person; the understanding of non-duality operates at the level of being. Both are valid within their respective contexts.’

From event 21 - 28 November, 2025 Seven-Day Retreat at The Vedanta, 21–28 November 2025

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