Dr. John Vervaeke

Kasra Mirzaie is a clinical researcher, psychotherapist, and university teacher. His work focuses on adolescents, examining the intersection of psychotherapy, dynamical systems theory, and the meaning crisis. Kasra is dedicated to exploring how self-organizing criticality and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy can drive transformation and personal growth in young people. Dr Robin Barre has over 30 years of experience working with adolescents. Her dissertation focused on trauma and the archetypal nature of adolescence. She runs a small psychotherapy practice and consults with parents, caregivers, and organizations to enhance adolescent well-being. How does the intricate dance of self-organizing criticality relate to the turmoil and transformation of adolescence? In this episode of "Voices with Vervaeke," John Vervaeke, Kasra Mirzaie, and Dr Robin Barre explore the transformative potential of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy in addressing the meaning crisis and supporting adolescents on their developmental journey. The conversation delves into the complex interplay of IFS, dynamical systems, and the critical phase transition of adolescence. They discuss principles such as self-organizing criticality, entropy, and insight, explaining how these concepts drive change and present unique challenges and opportunities. The episode highlights cultural shortcomings, the significance of wisdom traditions, and the role of IFS as a modern initiation process.   Connect with a community dedicated to self-discovery and purpose, and gain deeper insights by joining our Patreon.   —   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 02:45 Self-Organizing Criticality & IFS 07:20 Entropy and Insight in Change 20:20 Curiosity and Transformation 23:15 Adolescence and the Meaning Crisis 47:05 Culture's Disabling Effects 50:00 IFS Initiation for Adolescents 01:04:50 Remembering Adolescence and Navigating Mistakes 01:13:40 Communicating Conflict and Validating Adolescents 01:21:10 Embracing Transformation in Adolescence and the Meaning Crisis     —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy Tatjana Schnell Dr Kelly-Ann Allen Bill Plotkin James Hillman Vygotsky  Richard Frankel, The Adolescent Psyche National Scientific Council on Adolescence, Cultivating Purpose in Adolescence   Relevant Episodes Engaging the Imaginal: Kasra Mirzaie on IFS and the Meaning Crisis Is IFS a Path to Self-Knowledge or Self-Deception? Insights from Kasra MirzaieTransforming Identity: The Power of IFS Therapy and Ancient Wisdom | Paul Vander Klay Inside the Mind: Marc Lewis on Transformative Healing with Internal Family Systems Therapy Attachment Theory Beyond Therapy: Seth Allison on Wisdom and Connection Exploring the Depths of Internal Family Systems with Seth Allison Wisdom Through the Imaginal: IFS Insights with Seth Allison Part 3   Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon —   Thank you for Listening!  

  Can we find meaning in a world without religion?   In this episode first released on Dissident Dialogues, Freddie Sayers hosts John Vervaeke and Alex O'Connor, formerly known as Cosmic Skeptic, to explore the deep question of meaning in an increasingly secular world. They discuss the historical role of religion in providing purpose and narrative, the modern challenges of finding meaning, and the rise of non-propositional forms of knowledge and practice. O'Connor and Vervaeke share personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, highlighting the timeless struggle for meaning, the limitations of relying solely on logical arguments, and the potential of emerging communities and practices to fill the void left by traditional religious structures.    —   Embark on a journey of personal growth and meaning with us. Join our Patreon Patreon community, where shared wisdom fuels transformation.   —   00:00 Introduction: The Loss of American Narrative 02:00 The Meaning Crisis in a Secular Age 04:32 Exploring Atheism and Meaning 07:35 Philosophical Perspectives on Meaning 12:35 The Role of Non-Propositional Knowledge 18:31 The Search for New Narratives 30:19 Conclusion: Emerging Communities and Future Prospects —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    Follow us:   John Vervaeke: Website | X | YouTube | Patreon Alex O’Connor: YouTube Freddie Sayers: X  Dissident Dialogues: X | Instagram | Facebook   —   Thank you for Listening!  

Nicholas Janni is a pioneer in executive development, having co-founded Olivier Mythodrama Associates, where he created leadership programs based on Shakespearean stories. He continues to work globally with leaders and organizations through his consultancy, Core Presence, and his innovative 'Leader as Healer' program, which promotes integrated, conscious leadership. How can the ancient practices of spirituality and modern leadership development intersect to create transformative experiences?   In this episode of “Voice with Vervaeke,” John Vervaeke and Nicholas Janni explore this question through a conversation about leadership, spirituality, and human connection. Nicholas shares his transformative journey, from his school days to his encounters with Tibetan Buddhism and immersive theater, which led him to develop a unique approach to spiritual and embodied leadership. They discuss the importance of leaders connecting with their bodies, emotions, and the transpersonal, and the role of practices like bodywork, deep breathing, and poetry in facilitating this connection. Their conversation also explores the metaphysical realm, including prayer and spiritual guidance, and their impact on leadership. John and Nicholas discuss the cultural implications of their work and stress the importance of leaders who can promote this holistic approach to leadership and foster supportive communities for transformative experiences.  Dive deeper into the journey of personal growth and meaning by becoming part of our Patreon community, where shared wisdom fuels transformation.   —   00:00 Introduction: Convergence of Spirituality and Leadership  11:25 From Theatre to Leadership Consultancy 16:40 The Birth of 'Leader as Healer' 23:35 Reawakening Non-Propositional Thinking 43:40 The Transformative Power of Poetry 48:05 Therapy vs. Transformational Work 51:10 Integrating Awakening and Healing 01:02:55 Addressing the Modern Meaning Crisis 01:15:50 Embracing Prayer, Reverence, and Connectedness 01:24:30 Concluding Thoughts: The Imperative to Wake Up     —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Nicholas Janni, Leader as Healer Heinrich Päs, The One: How an Ancient Idea Holds the Future of Physics Vivian Dittmar Richard Olivier Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Shakespeare, W. Henry V. Shakespeare, W. Julius Caesar. Shakespeare, W. The Tempest. Malidoma Somé  Michael Meade Patrick Connor Charles Taylor David Wyatt Mary Oliver, Wild Geese. Plato René Descartes   Relevant Episodes Exploring the Transrational: A Journey into the Realms of Consciousness with Vivian Dittmar Transpersonal States: Awakening, Enlightenment, and the Ego | Vivian Dittmar Exploring Emotions and Transrational Wisdom with Vivian Dittmar   Follow John Vervaeke: Website | X | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Nicholas Janni: Website | Email | LinkedIn    —   Thank you for listening!  

Brendan Graham Dempsey is the director of Sky Meadow Institute and the author of the Metamodern Spirituality Series. He explores the evolution of spirituality and the integration of science and religion in contemporary culture. To learn more about his latest book release, "A Universal Learning Process," which is the first volume in his series "The Evolution of Meaning," please visit this link.   Can Metamodern Christianity breathe new life into ancient religious frameworks?   In this episode of "Voices with Vervaeke," John Vervaeke and Brendan Graham Dempsey continue their exploration of MetaModern Christianity in part two of their discussion. Building on their previous conversation, which addressed the potential for metamodern spirituality to rejuvenate the Christian faith, they delve deeper into the integration of ancient doctrines with contemporary thought. They tackle the limitations of traditional religious frameworks, explore the concept of ultimate reality and the sacred through a non-theistic lens, and emphasize the significance of dialogical relationships in meaning-making. Vervaeke and Dempsey connect these insights to broader philosophical and cultural themes, examining the evolution of spiritual maturity, the interplay between personhood and the universe, and the integration of scientific and mystical perspectives.   —   Embark on a journey of personal growth and meaning with us. Join our Patreon Patreon community, where shared wisdom fuels transformation.   —   00:00 Introduction and Recap of Part One 00:45 Brendan's Work on Metamodern Spirituality 02:45 Ultimate Reality and the Sacred 13:25 Integrating Critiques: Schellenberg, Transcendence, and Non-Theism 16:50 Meaning and Learning in Sacred Evolution 29:20  Dialogical Relationship with the Sacred 41:45 God as Cosmic Self-Realization 50:00 Prayer and Maturation in Deep Time 54:30 Prayer and Transpersonal Dialogue 58:30 Prayer and Ultimate Reality 01:15:05 Conclusion: The Evolution of Meaning and the Sacred   —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   J.L. Schellenberg Gregg Henriques Rudolf Otto  Clifford Geertz Carl Sagan Meister Eckhart Paul Tillich Iain McGilchrist Martin Heidegger Michael Levin Epicurus Bobby Azarian Kasra Mirzaie Leonard Angel Spinoza John Hick Dan Chiappe Paul Tillich Dionysus Brendan Graham Dempsey, A Universal Learning Process (The Evolution of Meaning) ​​Matt Rossano, Ritual in Human Evolution and Religion Joseph A. Bracken, The Divine Matrix: Creativity As Link Between East and West Leonard Angel, Enlightenment East and West   Relevant Episodes   Reviving Faith with Metamodern Spirituality and the Future of Christianity | Brendan Graham Dempsey   Follow John Vervaeke: Website | X | YouTube | Patreon Follow Brendan Graham Dempsey: Website | X | Facebook   —   Thank you for Listening!  

Have we confined the true essence of sainthood within too narrow a boundary? In this episode of 'Voices with Vervaeke,' John Vervaeke welcomes Christopher Mastropeitro and Andrew Sweeny for a discussion that delves into the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of their innovative project, the Philosophical Silk Road. Together, they challenge contemporary notions of sainthood and wisdom, drawing connections between Zen Buddhism, Neoplatonism, and Tantric practices. Through personal anecdotes and reflective dialogue, the trio examines the essence of saints and sages, the importance of humor and humility in spiritual journeys, and the delicate balance between our finite existence and the quest for transcendence. Join John, Chris, and Andrew as they share their spiritual paths and encounters with saintly figures, advocating for a renewed appreciation of the sacred in our modern world.   Andrew Sweeny is an educator, writer, musician, and podcaster. He teaches at Sciences Po University in Paris and is an editor at Parallax magazine. Sweeny explores Zen Buddhism, Tantric practices, and music through his media platform, Parallax, offering courses and podcasts. Christopher Mastropietro is a philosophical writer fascinated by dialogue, symbols, and the concept of self. He is the executive director and an active contributor to the Vervaeke Foundation, collaborating on projects exploring wisdom, spirituality, and transformative dialogue.   Connect with a community dedicated to self-discovery and purpose, and gain deeper insights by joining our Patreon.   —   00:00 Introducing the Guests and the Philosophical Silk Road 02:50 Andrew's Path: Zen, Tantra, and Music 05:05 Exploring the Philosophical Silk Road 07:00 Dialogos and Sacred Emergence 10:40 Setting the Stage: Connecting Zen, Neoplatonism, and Theurgy 21:40 Tantra's Influence in East and West 31:40 Reflections on Saintliness       44:25 The Enigma of Crazy Wisdom and Non-Conformity 52:10 Understanding the Hidden Order and Profound Humanity of Saints 01:09:05 The Role of Romanticism and Humor in Sainthood 01:17:40 Pilgrimage and the Saintly Path 01:19:30 Final Reflections        —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Authors, Ideas, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Kitaro Nishida Alicia Juarrero Friedrich Nietzsche  James Filler Erich Fromm Chögyam Trungpa Heidegger Plato Nagarjuna Christianity Neoplatonism Socrates Thomas Aquinas Augustine Joseph A. Bracken, The Divine Matrix: Creativity As Link Between East and West Gregory Shaw, Hellenic Tantra: The Theurgic Platonism of Iamblichus Shunryu Suzuki, Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind: Informal Talks on Zen Meditation and Practice  Lotus Guru Padmasambhava, The Tibetan Book of the Dead Albert Camus, The Plague Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Brothers Karamazov; The Idiot  Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Andrew Sweeny: Medium | Twitter | YouTube   Connect with Christopher Mastropietro   —   Thank you for listening! --- Key Words: Philosophical Silk Road, John Vervaeke, Andrew Sweeny, Christopher Mastropietro, Zen Buddhism, Neoplatonism, Tantra, dialogos, John Vervaeke podcast, Voices with Vervaeke, sacred journeys, spiritual growth, transformative dialogue, spiritual wisdom, cognitive science, psychology of religion, meaning crisis, philosophical podcasts, spiritual practices, Eastern and Western traditions, romanticism in spirituality, humor in spirituality, sacred and secular, spiritual transformation, evolutionary psychology  

Kasra Mirzaie is a clinical researcher, psychotherapist, and university teacher. His work focuses on adolescents, exploring the interplay between psychotherapy, spirituality, and self-deception. Can understanding all parts of ourselves sometimes lead us away from the truth? In this episode of "Voices with Vervaeke," John Vervaeke continues to explore Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with guest Kasra Mirzaie. They discuss the paradox of IFS as both a path to self-discovery and a potential source of self-deception. Their conversation covers the intersection of spirituality and science within IFS, offering listeners insights into this therapeutic approach. Mirzaie shares personal experiences, emphasizing the transformative roles of love and forgiveness in therapy. Vervaeke and Mirzaie also examine the philosophical and cognitive scientific foundations of IFS, setting the stage for future discussions on self-organizing criticality and the relationship between cognitive science and spirituality. This episode aims to broaden listeners' understanding of the self and provide new perspectives on human psychology.   Connect with a community dedicated to self-discovery and purpose, and gain deeper insights by joining our Patreon.   —   00:00 Introduction and Mirzaie's Background and Work 03:00 Exploring Self-Deception  17:00 The Role of Love and Forgiveness 22:50 The Spiritual Dimension of IFS 34:40 Self-Deception and Spiritual Bypassing 38:45 Spirit of Self-Deception: The Paradox of Adaptation and Growth 43:00 The Paradox of the Fall and Self-Consciousness 45:40 Relational Reality and the Self 59:50 The Therapeutic Approach to Trauma 01:06:25 Conclusion: Gratitude, Growth, and Ongoing Exploration     —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy Neoplatonism Mark Lewis Paul Vander Klay Seth Allison Marc Lewis Milton's Lucifer William Desmond Heidegger William Blake  Filler Jung Nietzsche Vygotsky Nishita Kirkegaard Tom Holmes, Parts Work: a Path of the Heart: Healing Journeys Integrating IFS and Spirituality Christopher Ben Simpson, The William Desmond Reader Robert B. Brandom, A Spirit of Trust: A Reading of Hegel’s Phenomenology Relevant Episodes Transforming Identity: The Power of IFS Therapy and Ancient Wisdom | Paul Vander Klay Inside the Mind: Marc Lewis on Transformative Healing with Internal Family Systems Therapy Attachment Theory Beyond Therapy: Seth Allison on Wisdom and Connection Exploring the Depths of Internal Family Systems with Seth Allison Wisdom Through the Imaginal: IFS Insights with Seth Allison Part 3 Engaging the Imaginal: Kasra Mirzaie on IFS and the Meaning Crisis   Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon —   Thank you for Listening! --- Keywords John Vervaeke, Kasra Mirzaie, Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, self-deception, spirituality and science, cognitive science foundations, love and forgiveness, personal transformation, self-organizing criticality, cognitive science and spirituality, relationality in therapy, self-identity and agency, therapeutic practices, modern spirituality, Voices with Vervaeke podcast  

Paul Vander Klay is a minister at Living Stones CRC in Sacramento, CA, known for his engaging online discussions on faith and thoughtful community engagement. How can the convergence of ancient spiritual practices and modern cognitive science redefine our understanding of identity and collective wisdom? In this episode of "Voices with Vervaeke," John Vervaeke and Paul Vander Klay explore the intersections of personal transformation and collective wisdom. They discuss the role of spiritual practices like Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy in modern society and their implications for personal growth and collective understanding. The conversation highlights the significance of relationality in understanding agency and cognition, emphasizing how our relationships with others shape our sense of self and our ability to navigate the world. John and Paul also address the advent of the sacred in modern culture and the potential for new cultural cognitive grammars. They share insights from their personal and professional experiences, offering a thought-provoking exploration of modern spirituality and relational being. This episode leaves listeners with a deeper understanding of how personal growth and collective wisdom are intertwined.   Connect with a community dedicated to self-discovery and purpose, and gain deeper insights by joining our Patreon.   —   00:00 Introduction: Faith, Friendship, and Exploration 03:10 Exploring IFS Therapy, Dialogical Self, and Archetypal Experiences 08:50 Dialoguing with Hermes: Ally Work and Neoplatonic Traditions 14:00 Dialogical Models and Changing Public Perception of Humans 22:50 Rethinking the Self: Transjectivity, Relationality, and the Imaginal 28:00 Beyond Substance Ontology 55:00 Dialogical Presencing and Transjective Ontology in Religion 58:05 Communal Aspects of Christian Tradition 01:01:35 Dialogical Practice and Hermetic Consciousness 01:05:25 Therapeutic Practices and Self-Deception 01:12:15 Exploring the Sacred in IFS and Dialogical Practices 01:40:50 Conclusion: Embracing Vulnerability and Honesty     —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy Dialogical Practices Hermes (Guiding Figure) Proclus Plotinus Jordan Peterson Jonathan Pageau Seth Allison Kasra Mirzaie Richard Schwartz Marc Lewis Anderson Todd Jeffrey Raff  Dallas Willard James Fuller Robert Falconer Sam Tideman Paul Kingsnorth Martin Shaw Richard Rohlin (Universal History) Gregory Shaw, Hellenic Tantra: The Theurgic Platonism of Iamblichus Ben Alderson-Day, Presence: The Strange Science and True Stories of the Unseen Other T. M. Luhrmann, How God Becomes Real: Kindling the Presence of Invisible Others Paul Ricoeur, Fallible Man: Philosophy of the Will Plato, The Seventh Letter Charles Taylor Neoplatonism Socrates   Relevant Episodes Attachment Theory Beyond Therapy: Seth Allison on Wisdom and Connection Exploring the Depths of Internal Family Systems with Seth Allison Wisdom Through the Imaginal: IFS Insights with Seth Allison Part 3 Engaging the Imaginal: Kasra Mirzaie on IFS and the Meaning Crisis The Elusive I - Part 1 - The Cognitive Science Show AI Sages and the Ethical Frontier: Exploring Human Values, Embodiment, and Spiritual Realms   Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Paul Vander Klay: Blog | Twitter | YouTube —   Thank you for Listening!  

Thomas Jockin is a Fellow at the Halkyon Guild and the Founder of TypeThursday. He has taught at Pratt Institute, FIT (SUNY), Queens College (CUNY), and City College of New York (CUNY). Sign Up for Thomas Jockin’s Course: Plato on Beauty and Virtue | Halkyon Academy   Can re-engaging with classical ideals of beauty help us address the meaning crisis? In this episode of "Voices with Vervaeke," John Vervaeke and Thomas Jockin explore the concept of beauty through the lens of Plato's philosophy. Thomas shares insights from his upcoming course, discussing the interconnectedness of beauty, truth, and goodness. They examine how modern interpretations of beauty differ from Plato's original vision and how re-engaging with classical ideals can address the current meaning crisis. John and Thomas challenge contemporary perspectives and seek to rediscover foundational principles. Join the discussion to learn more about the profound impact of beauty on our lives.   Connect with a community dedicated to self-discovery and purpose, and gain deeper insights by joining our Patreon.   —   00:00 Exploring Plato's Concept of Beauty with Thomas Jockin 01:10 Jockin’s Halcyon Course: Plato on Beauty and Virtue 04:25 The Cultural Decline of Beauty 08:00 Plato's Beauty: Love, Reason, and the Soul's Recollection 10:25 Philosophical Implications of Beauty, Love, and Truth 24:00 The Rationality of Beauty Beyond Propositions  31:45 The Cascade Effect of Moral Virtues in Everyday Life 35:55 Bridging the Material and the Divine 40:55 The Interconnectedness of Beauty, Goodness, and Truth 51:15 Modern Art and the Role of the Artist 01:08:15 Beauty as a Solution to the Meaning Crisis in Modern Art and Architecture 01:14:25 Conclusion: Returning to Foundations in the Modern World       —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Plato. Greater Hippias. Plato. Symposium. Plato. Phaedrus. Plato. Meno. Plato. Cratylus. Plato. Parmenides. Sonia Sedivy, Beauty and the End of Art Byung-Chul Han, Saving Beauty Drew A. Hyland, Plato and the Question of Beauty D. C. Schindler, “The Primacy of Beauty, the Centrality of Goodness, and the Ultimacy of Truth” John Russon, Bearing Witness to Epiphany: Persons, Things, and the Nature of Erotic Life Duchamp (Fountain) Heidegger Maurice Merleau-Ponty Habermas Neoplatonism Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Thomas Jockin: Website | Twitter | LinkedIn    —   Thank you for Listening!  

Marc Lewis is a neuroscientist and former professor of developmental psychology, who taught at the University of Toronto and Radboud University. He is the author of numerous journal publications and books, including Memoirs of an Addicted Brain and The Biology of Desire. How can understanding our internal parts lead to emotional healing and personal growth? In this episode of "Voices with Vervaeke," John Vervaeke and Marc Lewis explore Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. They examine the emotional landscapes that shape our behaviors, the interaction of different parts of the mind, and the transformative potential of self-compassion in therapy. This conversation provides insights into psychological healing, challenging conventional views and offering new perspectives on personal growth and recovery.   Embark on a journey with us to tackle the Meaning Crisis by joining our exclusive Patreon Community. —   00:00 Introduction: Understanding Addiction and Emotional Regulation through IFS Therapy 03:15 Marc's Academic Journey and Neuroscience Insights 05:35 The Power of IFS Therapy: A Faster Route to Healing and Understanding 11:35 Practical Applications of IFS and Why it Works 21:00 Dialoguing with Our Inner Selves 33:50 Exploring the Concept of Self in IFS 43:55 Bridging Therapy, Spirituality, and Emotional Healing 48:20 Balancing Growth, Responsibility, and the Role of the Self 01:00:00 Navigating Cultural Reactivity and Spiritual Dimensions 01:13:35 The Importance of Guidance and Pedagogical Preparation  01:17:15 Conclusion: The Evolving Nature of IFS Therapy and the Need for Continued Inquiry     —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Plato, Republic  Richard Schwartz, No Bad Parts  Cece Sykes, Internal Family Systems Therapy for Addictions: Trauma-Informed, Compassion-Based Interventions for Substance Use, Eating, Gambling and More  Wizard of Oz (film) Seth Allison Kasra Mirzaie  Lucas Forstmeyer Gedankenexperiment  Relevant Episodes Attachment Theory Beyond Therapy: Seth Allison on Wisdom and Connection Exploring the Depths of Internal Family Systems with Seth Allison Wisdom Through the Imaginal: IFS Insights with Seth Allison Part 3 Engaging the Imaginal: Kasra Mirzaie on IFS and the Meaning Crisis Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Marc Lewis: Website | YouTube —   Thank you for Listening!  

Vivian Dittmar is an author, speaker, and wisdom teacher dedicated to enhancing holistic development for over two decades. Through her books and the Be the Change Foundation, she focuses on emotional intelligence, ecological sustainability, social justice, and spiritual fulfillment to address modern society's crises.  What does it mean to truly transcend the ego and embrace a transpersonal state of being?  In this episode of “Voices with Vervaeke,” John Vervaeke and Vivian Dittmar thoughtfully explore enlightenment, viewing it not as a final destination but as an ongoing journey of maturation and integration. They challenge conventional perspectives on enlightenment, proposing a more dynamic interplay between personal growth and spiritual awakening. By examining the delicate balance required to maintain higher states of consciousness while cultivating a healthy personal self, they illuminate the complexities of spiritual bypassing and the necessity of embracing imperfection. Their conversation also delves into the importance of vulnerability, aligning inner and outer worlds, the role of synchronicity, and the transformative power of confronting our own mortality. Join them as they unravel these intricate themes with intellectual rigor, poetic insight, and a commitment to deepening our understanding of what it means to lead a truly awakened life.   Embark on a journey with us to tackle the Meaning Crisis by joining our exclusive Patreon Community. —   00:00 Introduction: Exploring Transpersonal and Transegoic States 02:10 Navigating the Spectrum of Egoic and Transrational Consciousness 07:20 Beyond the Social Conscience: Discovering the Voice of the Soul 12:35 Exploring the Implicate Order and Transrational Ways of Knowing 19:00 Redefining Spiritual Awakening and the Mythology Surrounding It 23:25 Bridging the Gap between Inner and Outer Worlds through Wisdom and Virtue 32:20 Cultivating a Healthy Personal Self after Enlightenment 43:45 Beyond Spiritual Bypassing and the Pursuit of Perfection in the Journey Towards Wholeness  57:00 Facing Mortality: A Journey Towards Wholeness and Maturity   01:18:00 Conclusion: Reflections on Convergence, Gratitude, and the Quest for True Prosperity   —   The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   The Death of Ivan Ilyich, by Leo Tolstoy David Bohm Plato Carl Jung Leo Tolstoy Spinoza Fallible Man, by Paul Ricoeur  Relevant Episodes Exploring the Transrational: A Journey into the Realms of Consciousness with Vivian Dittmar   Exploring Emotions and Transrational Wisdom with Vivian Dittmar   Wisdom Through the Imaginal: IFS Insights with Seth Allison Part 3   — Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Vivian Dittmar: Website | YouTube Workshops/Courses:   Introduction to the Practice of Conscious Release How Big Is Your Emotional Backpack?The Emotional Backpack Books: The Emotional Backpack Your Inner GPS —   Thank you for Listening!  

Gregg Henriques is a professor at James Madison University, author of "A New Unified Theory of Psychology," and a leader in the Unified Psychotherapy Movement, with over 20 years of experience in psychology and psychotherapy, specializing in adult psychopathology.    Pascal Layman is a philosopher based in Northern Ontario, known for his groundbreaking work on the metaphysics of adjacency, the coaxial stages model, and metaprogressive politics.   Bruce Alderman is an accomplished musician, visual artist, and deep meditation practitioner. He is the producer of The Integral Stage podcast and the organizer of the Blue Sky Leadership Program at the California Institute for Integral Studies.    Does the universe hold inherent mystery, or is our scientific understanding merely inadequate?  In this episode of The Cognitive Science Show, John Vervaeke and Gregg Henriques are joined by Layman Pascal and Bruce Alderman to reflect on the Transcendent Naturalism series and explore its potential for fostering collective transcendence. The discussion covers a range of topics, including the importance of ethical and relational dimensions in our understanding of the world, the role of art and meaning-making in a meta-modern context, and the layered ontology of nature. Join us to explore this fascinating approach to understanding how transcendent naturalism can shed light on our world and guide us toward a deeper sense of purpose. Gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by supporting John's innovative work on Patreon.   —   “IPS (Integral Post-Metaphysical Spirituality) wants to leave room for the interplay of transcendence and immanence, but without needing to posit an unthinkable outside to reality. It's in strong accord with transcendent naturalism in this regard." - Bruce Alderman  [08:37]   "John's proposed simple move to arrive at an extended naturalism, getting science to more explicitly accept what it already presupposes, is genius. There's much more that could be said about that, but my simple response is bravo." - Bruce Alderman [08:49]   —   0:00 - Introduction: Series Finale and Overview of Transcendent Naturalism Series 4:00 - Integral Post-Metaphysical Spirituality and its Flexible Nature 14:10 - Influential Theories and Thinkers: Integrating Cognitive Science, Philosophy, and Transcendence 24:20 - Flexible Metaphysics and the Layered Ontology of Transcendent Naturalism 32:50 -  Theology, Art, and Literature: Navigating the AGI and Meaning Crisis 39:20 - Participatory Spiritual Practices and Metaphysical Rituals 45:20 - Strong Transcendence with Preeminent Imminence 53:40 - The Role of Art and Narrative in Transcendent Naturalism 57:00 - Cultivating a Transformative Curriculum: Reimagining Institutional Roles in Spiritual Growth 1:10:20 - Conclusion: Culminating Thoughts and Future Pathways    —   Help advance the pursuit of scientifically rigorous wisdom and make a meaningful impact by joining the Vervaeke Foundation. Learn more at The Vervaeke Foundation   Deepen your virtues and foster authentic connections in life by joining Awaken to Meaning. Start your journey today at Awaken to Meaning   —   If you're interested in learning more about transcendent naturalism, be sure to check out the Cognitive Science Show. Towards a Metapsychology that is true to Transformation w/ Gregg Henriques and Zachary Stein   —   Follow John Vervaeke: Website | X/Twitter  | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Gregg Henriques: Website | X/Twitter | UTOK   Follow Layman Pascal: Substack | X/Twitter | YouTube   Follow Bruce Alderman: LinkedIn | Facebook   —   Thank you for Listening!  

Brendan Graham Dempsey is an author and speaker specializing in metamodern spirituality, exploring the intersections of traditional faith and contemporary thought. How can ancient faith traditions adapt to the complexities of the modern world? In this episode of Voices with Vervaeke, John Vervaeke and Brendan Graham Dempsey explore the potential for metamodern spirituality to breathe new life into the Christian faith. Dempsey shares his transformative journey from traditional beliefs to a metamodern perspective that integrates ancient doctrines with contemporary thought. Their discussion addresses challenging issues such as historical and postmodern critiques of the Bible, the complex relationship between faith and science, and the psychological underpinnings of religious practices. This conversation aims to rejuvenate our understanding of Christianity and enrich our engagement with reality, setting the stage for future dialogues on the essence of God and the sacred. Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community!  --- "I'm interested in the ways that spirituality begins to dovetail with the sciences, where that antagonism many of us are familiar with is transcended and healed in a profound way." - Brendan Graham Dempsey [00:04:00] "We need the language of explaining because the language of explaining is the language of science. If we don't have a properly cultivated language of explaining, the gulf between spirituality and science will remain. That is one of the significant drivers of the meaning crisis." - John Vervaeke [00:15:33] "What's the point of the religious relationship to Jesus? Is it to accurately capture the past or wisely prepare you for the future? I think the latter is exactly what it's most properly for." John Vervaeke [00:39:28] ---   0:00 Introduction: Brendan's Christian Roots and Academic Journey  06:20 Modern and Postmodern Biblical Critiques 10:15 Metamodern Christianity and Its Challenges 13:40 Training vs. Explaining in Religious Contexts 20:45 Bridging Historical Jesus and Imaginal Christ 43:05 Faith, Maturation, and the Interplay of Training and Explanation 51:50 Imaginal Recovery and Theological Continuity 01:02:45 Navigating Order and Chaos: Spiritual Growth Dynamics 01:27:30 Conclusion: Exploring the Numinous - God, Sacredness, and Ultimate Reality   ---   Become a part of The Vervaeke Foundation's  mission to promote the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and create a lasting impact on the world.    Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.   --- The Meaning of Meaning | Transcendent Naturalism #7   The Future of Faith | Transcendent Naturalism #8   Unlocking the Mysteries of Meaning: An Intellectual Odyssey The Artful Scaling of the Religion that is not a religion w/ Layman Pascal & Brendan Graham Dempsey --- Ideas, Authors, and Works Mentioned in This Episode: Metamodernism  Transcendent Naturalism Jesus of Nazareth  Biblical Studies  Postmodern Critiques  Nietzsche  Foucault  Derrida Spinoza Plato  Xenophon  Aristophanes Solon Aristotle  Henry IV, V, and IV (Shakespeare)  Shakespeare’s early works  Plato's Socrates  H.G. Gadamer T.S. Eliot J.R.R. Tolkien C.S. Lewis G.W.F. Hegel J.L. Schellenberg J.Campbell C.Jung  Jordan Peterson Jared Morningstar Dr. Johannes A. Niederhauser (Halkyon Academy) J.A.S. Kelso Paul (Apostle) Brian McLaren  D.C. Schindler Paul Vander Klay The Language of Coaching by Nick Winkelman ---    Follow John Vervaeke: Website | X/Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Brendan Graham Dempsey: Website | X/Twitter | Facebook   ---   Thank you for listening!  

Gregg Henriques is a clinical psychologist and professor at James Madison University. He is known for his Unified Theory of Knowledge (UTOK), which integrates various domains of psychology into a coherent framework.   Bonnita Roy is the founder of Alderlore Insight Center, a non-profit educational organization and the curator of The POP-UP School, an online learning community exploring new ways of thinking and acting. Alexander Bard is a philosopher and futurist specializing in the relationship between humanity and technology, with a profound interest in psychoanalysis and anthropology to understand the impact of technological change on interpersonal relationships. What drives our social connections and sense of belonging? Recorded live at UTOK Consilience Conference 2024, this episode features Gregg Henriques, Alexander Bard, Bonnitta Roy, and John Vervaeke examining the convergences and fault lines between transcendent naturalism and emergentism and the profound implications these theories have on our understanding of reality. By critiquing materialism, idealism, and dualism, the panel advocates for a new 21st-century philosophical framework that integrates Eastern and Western insights, emphasizing relationalism and dialectical thinking. Enriched with references to thinkers like Hegel, Whitehead, Nietzsche, and Deleuze, this dialogue explores the roles of cognitive science, spirituality, and community practices. Join this journey to uncover the essence of ultimate reality and the transformative potential of sacredness while underscoring the importance of humility, love, and pragmatic approaches to contemporary challenges.   Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community!    —   00:00 Introduction: Setting the Stage for Transcendent Naturalism and Emergentism 03:30 John Vervaeke: Outline of Transcendent Naturalism 19:45 Bonnitta Roy's Perspective on Naturalism and Stratified Reality 32:00 Alexander Bard on the Necessity of Metaphysics and Transcendent Emergentism 48:00 Group Dialogue on UTOC Framework and Integrating Perspectives 01:11:00 Exploring Zoofism and the Philosophical Silk Road 01:18:45 Q&A: Integrating Transcendental Emergentism with Science and Philosophy 01:31:10 Alexander Bard on Integrating Hegel with Modern Thinkers 01:33:50 Ontology of Pure Relationality and the Future of Digital Networks and Decentralization 01:40:05 Stability, Relational Thinking, and Dynamic Systems 01:43:30 Final Thoughts and Reflections: Convergences and Future Directions   —   Join The Vervaeke Foundation in our mission to advance the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and make a meaningful impact in the world.   Discover practices that deepen your virtues and help you connect more deeply with reality and relationships by joining Awaken to Meaning today.    —   Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode Evan Thompson Adam Frank Marcelo Gleiser James Blachowicz  Alicia Juarrero Wolfgang Smith Aspects of Truth: A New Religious Metaphysics by Catherine Pickstock  Willard Van Orman Quine Hilary Putnam Quine-Duhem Immanuel Kant Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel James J. Gibson ​​Martin Heidegger James Filler Kyoto School John L. Schellenberg Roy Bhaskar Sabine Hossenfelder Eric Weinstein Alfred North Whitehead Friedrich Nietzsche Henri Bergson Dan Chiappe Matt Segall  Bruno Latour  Diana Fosha Gilles Deleuze Process and Event by Alexander Bard and Jan Söderqvist    — Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Gregg Henriques: Website | Twitter | UTOK   Follow Bonita : YouTube | Substack   Follow Alexander Bard Henriques: Blog | Twitter    —   Thank you for Listening!  

Tataya Bailey is the founder and lead trainer of Prisma Leadership, combining her law degree, multiple yoga certifications, and over two decades of facilitation experience to create a unique leadership approach rooted in integrity and connection. Rachel Hayden is a magpie of the Liminal Web, and occasional collaborator with people like John, Gregg Henriques, and Alexander Bard. Her background includes somatics, meditative and contemplative practice, and peer-based mental health How can we heal and transform ourselves through embodied practices and the relational field?  In this episode of Voices with Vervaeke, Tataya Bailey and Rachel Hayden join John Vervaeke to explore the transformative power of relational practices on personal growth and healing. They delve into the balance between structure and spontaneity, discuss handling trauma, and emphasize the significance of attention and attunement in fostering authentic connections. This episode highlights the beauty of human connection and the endless possibilities for transformation.   Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community!    — "I discovered capacities in me that I didn't even know I had." - Tataya Bailey [00:06:30] "The experiences ranged from incredibly profound and bequeathing of a new dharma for me, all the way to working through shadow stuff, having alternate childhood experiences, and working through archetypal symbolism and tribal imagery between people. It was all like welcome there, and it was all material for that relationality, which I found so beautiful and so accessible to me." - Rachel Hayden [00:12:00]  —   00:00 Introduction: Exploring Relational Practices 08:35 Rachel’s Prisma Experience: Embracing Vulnerability and Transformation 13:45 The Structure and Values of Prisma: Balancing Spontaneity and Containment 21:10 How Prisma Unlocks Relational Potential: Recovering Lost Parts and Deepening Connection 40:05 Attention and Attunement: Harmonizing Individuation and Participation 43:50 The Musicality of Relational Practices: The Dance of Metaphors and Sacred Rituals 50:50 Navigating Trauma and Safety in Relational Work 01:00:00 Embracing Discomfort: The Journey from Propositional to Participatory Connection 01:04:50 Re-exaptation and the Imaginal: The Role of Aporia in Transformative Practices 01:12:10 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations   —   Become a part of The Vervaeke Foundation's  mission to promote the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and create a lasting impact on the world.    Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.   —   Ideas, Authors, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Alanja Forsberg - Avalon Community Alexander Bard Seth Allison - IFS James Carse - Infinite Game Andrew Huberman Kerry Ressler Robert Kegan   — Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Tataya Bailey: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn   —   Thank you for watching!  

Gregg Henriques is a clinical psychologist and professor at James Madison University. He is known for his Unified Theory of Knowledge (UTOK), which integrates various domains of psychology into a coherent framework.   What drives our social connections and sense of belonging? In this episode, originally recorded at the UTOC 2024 conference, John Vervaeke and Gregg Henriques explore the profound concept of recursive relevance realization, focusing on its integration into a fourth R: interpersonal relationality. Their conversation intricately weaves together cognitive science, philosophy, and psychotherapy, presenting a compelling case for understanding how relevance realization shapes social value and collective intelligence. By providing insights into predictive processing and the influence matrix, they uncover the complex dynamics of human cognition and social interaction. This episode not only offers a theoretical framework but also practical strategies for fostering meaningful connections in various aspects of life.  Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community!    — “Meaning in life is exactly what Gregg described: what keeps you going even when your subjective well-being is going down.” - John Vervaeke [00:39:15] “We need to be connected to what we deem to be really real.” - John Vervaeke [00:42:12] —   00:00 Introduction: Exploring the Fourth R 03:50 The Importance of Interpersonal Relationality 07:30 Exploring the Connection between Recursive Relevance Realization and the Influence Matrix 12:20 Anticipatory Relevance Realization: Integrating with the Influence Matrix and Predictive Processing 21:10 The Fourth R: Collective Intelligence and Reciprocal Recognition 23:30 Personal Memories and Relational Dynamics: Practical Examples 30:25 Integrating Theories: Bridging Science, Therapy, and Collective Intelligence 34:55 Social Influence vs. Relational Value: Implications for Society 38:35 Meaning in Life and Belonging: Integrative Insights 46:05 Reflections on Self and Social Justice: Future Directions 48:30 Final Thoughts: Collaboration and Convergence   —   Join The Vervaeke Foundation in our mission to advance the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and make a meaningful impact in the world.   Discover practices that deepen your virtues and help you connect more deeply with reality and relationships by joining Awaken to Meaning today.    —   Ideas, Authors, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Timothy Leary - Circumplex Model John Bowlby’s Attachment Theory Michael Levin - Cognitive Light Cone Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel Hegel's Phenomenology of Spirit by Terry Pinkard  Jim Rutt - GameB Concept Kelly-Ann Allen Joshua Hicks Grice's Maxims of Conversation Untangling the World Knot - John Vervaeke and Gregg Henriques   — Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Gregg Henriques: Website | Twitter | UTOK   —   Thank you for watching!  

Mahon McCann is a writer, award-winning playwright, philosophy doctoral researcher, martial arts coach, and podcast host who explores personal development and ethical issues of technology.   Are we on the brink of a new era of enlightenment or facing the rise of an existential threat? In this episode, John Vervaeke and Mahon McCann delve into the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence and the human search for meaning. They explore the potential of AI to act as a tool for personal and collective transformation, but also examine the challenges of creating AI that truly understands and respects our values. From predictive processing and relevance realization to Plato's cave allegory, this episode offers a fascinating exploration of the intersection between AI and human consciousness.   Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community!    — "Attention is like a spotlight you shine on things. When you shine your attention on them, they stand out and keep your attention." - John Vervaeke  [00:02:12] “So much of this first generation of AI is an environment, the large scale curation algorithms of social media are what's organizing our experience online. It's not a human being, but it's playing this role of orchestrating a lot of our experience and people's development. And so creating an optimal AI or an optimal environment would be trying to foster optimal agency, optimal meaning, which is really optimal wellbeing as well.” - Mahon McCann [00:38:23] “I think part of steeling the culture is to get the people within the AI industry [to] drop the sorcerer myth. Drop it. Disidentify with it. Take up the sage mythology. Take that up. That is the way we can do what you want, but in a way that isn't going to set us on a path to destruction. - John Vervaeke [00:59:16] —   0:00 Introduction to AI Alignment and the Meaning Crisis 1:00 Predictive Processing and Relevance Realization 2:00 Beyond the Spotlight Metaphor: New Models of Attention 6:30 Integrating Predictive Processing with Relevance Realization 23:00 Agency, Meaning, and the Self-Organizing Mind 29:20 Autopoiesis, Agency, and Plato's Insights 31:25 Predictive Processing, Motivation, Vertical Alignment, and Horizontal Anticipation  35:05 Optimal Agency, Collective Intelligence, and Persuasive Technologies 37:40 AI as Agents vs. AI as Environment 39:45 The Challenge of Aligning AI with Human Flourishing 53:15 Creating a New Sacredness in the Digital Age 59:44 Concluding Thoughts on Navigating AI Development: Embracing Choice Points, Wisdom, and Foresight for a Collectively Beneficial Future   —   Join The Vervaeke Foundation in our mission to advance the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and make a meaningful impact in the world.   Discover practices that deepen your virtues and help you connect more deeply with reality and relationships by joining Awaken to Meaning today.    —   Ideas, Authors, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Predictive processing and relevance realization: exploring convergent solutions to the frame problem - Brett Andersen, Mark Miller, John Vervaeke  Ken Lowry D.C. Schindler Jonathan Pageau Mark Miller Rick Repetti Attention Is Cognitive Unison: An Essay in Philosophical Psychology - Christopher Mole  Feature-integration theory of attention - Anne Treisman Metaphors We Live By - George Lakoff and Mark Johnson Attention Metaphors: How Metaphors Guide the Cognitive Psychology of Attention - Diego Fernandez-Duque, Mark Johnson William James  Andy Clark Phenomenology of Perception  - Maurice Merleau-Ponty Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience - Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi Lev Vygotsky The Republic - Plato Theory of motivation Mentoring the Machines - John Vervaeke and Shawn Coyne Free-Energy Minimising Agents and Beneficial A.I.: Ambient Smart Environments, Allostasis, and Metacognitive Control - Ben White and Mark Miller Tristan Harris Heidegger   — The Crossroads of Predictive Processing and Relevance Realization | Leiden Symposium AI: The Coming Thresholds and The Path We Must Take | Internationally Acclaimed Cognitive Scientist   —   Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Follow Mahon McCann: Website | Instagram | YouTube   —   Thank you for watching!  

In the vast expanse of human thought, how do philosophy and spirituality intertwine to shape our understanding of the sacred? In this conversation, first released on Andrew Sweeny's channel, The Parallax, John Vervaeke, Andrew Sweeny, and Christopher Mastropietro examine the delicate balance between philosophical rigor and spiritual experiences. They probe the challenges and rewards of navigating this complex terrain, emphasizing the transformative power of love, wisdom, and existential inquiry. By blurring the traditional boundaries between philosophical inquiry and religious practice, this conversation invites listeners to deepen their exploration of truth and meaning, ultimately fostering personal and communal growth.   Andrew Sweeny is an educator, writer, musician, and podcaster who currently teaches at Sciences Po University in Paris and serves as an editor at Parallax magazine.  Christopher Mastropietro is a philosophical writer who is fascinated by dialogue, symbols, and the concept of self. He actively contributes to the Vervaeke Foundation.   Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community! https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   Authors, Ideas, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Mere Christianity - C. S. Lewis Nothingness Beyond God: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Nishida Kitaro, by Robert Edgar Carter  Zombies in Western Culture: A Twenty-First Century Crisis,  co-authored by Christopher Mastropietro Heidegger, Neoplatonism, and the History of Being, by James Filler Iain McGilchrist Daniel Schmachtenberger Bishop Maximus Paul Vander Klay T.S. Eliot Jordan Peterson Sallie McFague Richard Dawkins Carl Jung Søren Kierkegaard Jacob Howland Douglas Hedley Jordan Hall   “The more people I'm talking to—high caliber, high quality people in this whole arena—the advent of the sacred as a response to the meaning crisis is a growing theme. I have found myself more and more called into service to doing whatever I can to afford the advent of that.” - John Vervaeke [00:02:00] "Nobody lives on the Silk Road; people move along it." - John Vervaeke [00:03:37] "The idea of the Silk Road, to me, is that the wandering, and the traveling, and the encountering different influences, and the metabolizing of a lingua philosophica helps to create a space within oneself into which that inward process can pour itself, discover itself, and metabolize itself." - Christopher Mastropietro [00:10:57] “The more I engage with this work, the more I realize that so much of the dawning consciousness of our encounter with the sacred is ultimately a process that happens to us. It occurs to us. We can bring consciousness to bear on it, and augment it, and make space for it, and inquire within it in such a way as to invite it.” - Christopher Mastropietro [00:11:23]   0:00  Embracing the Philosophical Silk Road: From Top-Down Religion to an Organic Spiritual Path 17:00  On the Philosophical Silk Road: An Interfaith Journey, Personal Transformation, and Confronting Idolatry 28:30  Beyond the Culture War: Embracing Authentic Dialogue and the Embodiment of Beliefs 35:40  The Unresolvable Dialogue: Embracing the Infinite Game Between Socrates and Jesus 44:10  Rediscovering the Essence of Faith: Beyond Doctrine to Personal Transformation 56:00  The Wildness of the Sacred: Recognizing and Integrating Spontaneous Spiritual Experiences 1:02:50  Philosophical and Sacred Synergies: Bridging the Divide through Love and Wisdom   Join the Vervaeke Foundation in our mission to advance the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and make a meaningful impact in the world. https://vervaekefoundation.org/   Discover practices that deepen your virtues and help you connect more deeply with reality and relationships by joining Awaken to Meaning today. https://awakentomeaning.com/   Follow John Vervaeke: https://johnvervaeke.com/ https://twitter.com/vervaeke_john  https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   Follow Andrew Sweeny https://twitter.com/andrewpgsweeny https://andrewpgsweeny.medium.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@parallax_media    Connect with Christopher Mastropietro https://vervaekefoundation.org/ Thank you for listening!  

Evan Thompson is a philosopher and author, specializing in the integration of cognitive science, philosophy of mind, and Asian philosophical traditions. Based at the University of British Columbia, his work, including his recent book 'The Blind Spot', examines the intersections of consciousness, experience, and reality through a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach.   Can cognitive science, philosophy, and mysticism hold the keys to resolving our modern meaning crisis?    Join John Vervaeke and Evan Thompson in a captivating exploration of how these disciplines converge to address this pressing issue. The conversation showcases Thompson's interdisciplinary approach, drawing from his work on 'The Blind Spot' and his extensive background in Asian philosophy and phenomenology. Gain fresh perspectives on the essence of lived experience, the power of relevance realization, and the nature of reality as the discussion unfolds. Prepare for an intellectual journey that promises to deepen our understanding of truth, goodness, and beauty and bridge the gaps between diverse intellectual traditions. Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community! https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   Immerse yourself in the groundbreaking insights of Evan Thompson's thought-provoking book, "The Blind Spot: Why Science Cannot Ignore Human Experience.”  https://www.amazon.com/Blind-Spot-Science-Cannot-Experience/dp/0262048809   —   “"The blind spot is the inability to see, or to recognize, or to acknowledge that lived experience is the source of science. And so if you undercut the source of science by occluding lived experience, you're actually damaging science." - Evan Thompson [00:19:34]   "The process of formalization of translating things into a formal system is always an ill-defined problem that requires relevance realization." - John Vervaeke [00:30:52] —   00:00 Introduction to Evan Thompson and 'The Blind Spot' 01:05 Evan Thompson's Background and Philosophical Journey 02:10 Diving Into 'The Blind Spot': A Book on the Meaning Crisis 09:30 Exploring Core Ideas and Arguments of 'The Blind Spot' 18:15 Addressing the Meaning Crisis: Science, Experience, and Reality 18:55 Navigating Between Science Triumphalism and Denial 21:30 The Role of Experience in Understanding Reality 31:25 Challenging the Bifurcation of Nature and the 'View from Nowhere' 38:45 Sacredness, Reality, and the Meaning Crisis 40:30 Exploring the Sacred Beyond Science 41:55 Exploring the Depths of the Sacred and Ultimate Concern: Secular vs. Transcendental Perspectives 47:45 The Axial Revolution and Its Impact on Modern Consciousness 56:45 Challenges and Opportunities in Bridging Science and Mysticism 59:54 Philosophical Reflections on Truth, Beauty, and the Good 01:11:10 Concluding Thoughts and Future Dialogues   —   Join the Vervaeke Foundation in our mission to advance the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and make a meaningful impact in the world. https://vervaekefoundation.org/   Discover practices that deepen your virtues and help you connect more deeply with reality and relationships by joining Awaken to Meaning today. https://awakentomeaning.com/   —   Idea, Authors, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   The Blind Spot: Why Science Cannot Ignore Human Experience - book co-authored by Evan Thompson, Adam Frank, and Marcelo Gleiser Waking, Dreaming, Being: Self and Consciousness in Neuroscience, Meditation, and Philosophy - book by Evan Thompson Why I Am Not a Buddhist -  book by Evan Thompson Contact with Reality - book by Esther Lightcap Meek The Nothingness Beyond God - book by Robert Edgar Carter Maurice Merleau-Ponty  Edmund Husserl  Martin Heidegger  William James  Galileo Galilei  Nishida Kitaro  Alfred North Whitehead Nancy Cartwright  René Descartes Robert Kreese  Paul Tillich  Michael Polanyi Michael Schellenberger  Susan Wolf Ursula Goodenough  Immanuel Kant —   Follow John Vervaeke: https://johnvervaeke.com/ https://twitter.com/vervaeke_john  https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke Follow Evan Thompson: https://evanthompson.me/ http://twitter.com/evantthompson https://www.facebook.com/evan.timothy.thompson   —   Thank you for watching!  

Elizabeth Oldfield is a writer, speaker, and advocate for intentional community living based in South London. Her work, including her book 'Fully Alive', explores the intersections of faith, culture, and ethics through a deeply personal lens.    In a world that often trivializes love and deep connections, how can we cultivate a life of wisdom, virtue, and transcendence amidst our finite existence and growing polarization?   Join John Vervaeke and Elizabeth Oldfield in a profound dialogue that explores these critical themes of human existence, drawing from Platonic to Christian thought and emphasizing the transformative power of dialogical reasoning, cognitive flexibility, and awe. Elizabeth Oldfield shares insights from her book 'Fully Alive,' an Augustinian blend of autobiographical confession and psycho-spiritual reflection that highlights relational living and the transformative power of love. The conversation addresses the trivialization of love in modern culture and advocates for a deeper understanding while navigating the complexities of polarization in politics, the comparison between psychedelic and spiritual experiences, and the intrinsic value of community and wisdom traditions in achieving a virtuous life. Discover the necessity of grounding transformative experiences in communal practices for genuine personal and societal transformation in this thought-provoking discussion. Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community! https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   Discover a profound exploration of love, wisdom, and the human soul in Elizabeth Oldfield's upcoming book, "Fully Alive: Tending to the Soul in Turbulent Times." https://www.amazon.com/Fully-Alive-Tending-Turbulent-Times/dp/1587436507   —   “I can close my eyes now and know myself’s seen, and the deep knowing of the presence of love in my life and the way that every other moment of love, and encounter, and intimacy reflects that is the ground of my being.” - Elizabeth Oldfield [00:32:48]   "Wisdom is about this loving enhancement of our connectedness. The wise person can go into a complex, messy, ill-defined situation and home in on what's relevant, summoning their agency in the right way so that they are properly responsible." - John Vervaeke [00:31:04] —   0:00 Introduction to Voices with Vervaeke: Elizabeth Oldfield' 1:30  Elizabeth Oldfield: Life, Faith, and the Quest for Existential Satisfaction 2:50 Exploring 'Fully Alive': Deep Dialogues on Belonging, Soul, and Existential Satisfaction 6:05 Plato's Insights on the Psyche, Inner Conflict, and the Pursuit of Inner Fullness 10:20 The Quest for Inner Peace, Wisdom, and Understanding Sin 14:20 The Interplay of Love, Wisdom, and the Divine in the Pursuit of Fully Aliveness 27:15 Unpacking the Realization of the Really Real: Connectedness, Love, and Presence 45:50 Identity, Cultural Scripts, and the Tension between Faith and Intellect 47:45 Expanding Our Understanding of Intelligence, Reality, and the Role of Attention 1:00:40 The Challenge of Authentic Love, Reverence, and Awe in a Trivialized World  1:13:10 Reverence, Awe, and the Cultivation of Virtue on the Path to Wisdom 1:22:50 Concluding Reflections on Love, Wisdom, and the Pursuit of Fully Aliveness   —   Join the Vervaeke Foundation in our mission to advance the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and make a meaningful impact in the world. https://vervaekefoundation.org/   Discover practices that deepen your virtues and help you connect more deeply with reality and relationships by joining Awaken to Meaning today. https://awakentomeaning.com/   —   Authors, Ideas, and Works Mentioned in this Episode   Plato  Freud  Pascal  Dialogos  Kenosis  Thumos  Homo Inconvartis in Se  Plato’s Dialogues   —   Follow John Vervaeke: https://johnvervaeke.com/ https://twitter.com/vervaeke_john  https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: https://www.elizabetholdfield.com/ https://www.instagram.com/elizabethsaraholdfield https://twitter.com/esoldfield   — Thank you for watching!  

Kyle Koch is a facilitator at Evolve Move Play, where he integrates dialogical practices into natural settings to foster deep personal connections and psychological growth.    Have you ever wondered about the impact of our environment on our cognition and ability to connect with others? In this episode of Voice with Vervaeke, John and Kyle explore the integration of dialogical practices within natural settings, the psychological and communal impacts of such practices, and the potential for deep listening to forge powerful, transformative experiences.   Support John's groundbreaking work and gain exclusive access to live Q&A sessions, early video releases, and more by joining our Patreon community! https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   We invite you to sign up for Evolve Move Play's "Embedded Experience" weekend workshops with Kyle Koch. Register at https://www.evolvemoveplay.com/weekend-workshops   -   "Memory is about the future. It’s not about the past. Memories reconstruct and reconfigure in powerful, often unconscious ways to improve your ability to foresee in a relevant, realizing manner, the future." - John Vervaeke [25:13]    "Rituals only matter to the degree to which they transfer broadly and deeply into many domains in your life and transfer broadly and deeply into many layers of your psyche." - John Vervaeke [57:27]   -    0:00 Rekindling Connections: Dialogue and Nature 4:50 Environmental Impact on Cognition: Embodied Practices and Deep Listening 13:10 Evolutionary Impact of Campfires: Hypnosis, Shared Attention, and Ritual for Cognition and Connectedness 11:00 The Role of Deep Listening in Dialogical Practices 22:50 Ritual and Long-Term Change: Reconstructive Memory and Internalizing Wise Spirit 29:30 The Role of Place and Virtual Reality in Storytelling and Evolutionary Constraints 32:40 Navigating Virtual Technology: Maladaptations and the Importance of Wisdom in Epistemic Vulnerability   41:00 The Evolution of Evolvability 50:00 The Power of Pilgrimage and Serious Play 59:30 Language and Expression of Transformation: Connectivity, Aliveness, and the We Space 1:06:40 Conclusion and Upcoming Opportunities for Embodied Experiences   -   Join the Vervaeke Foundation in our mission to advance the scientifically rigorous pursuit of wisdom and make a meaningful impact in the world. https://vervaekefoundation.org/   Discover practices that deepen your virtues and help you connect more deeply with reality and relationships by joining Awaken to Meaning today. https://awakentomeaning.com/   -   Follow John Vervaeke: https://johnvervaeke.com/ https://twitter.com/vervaeke_john  https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke Follow Kyle Koch: https://www.instagram.com/trottingsparrow/ https://www.evolvemoveplay.com/   -   Thank you for watching!