Dr. Justin Sledge, creator of the Esoterica channel, joins the Mystery College podcast to discuss the difference between esoteric and exoteric religious practices, the role of intellectual humility, and the importance of philosophy and language learning in understanding mysticism. He shares insights from his academic journey, practical advice for self-learners, and his vision for accessible community-focused education. Topics range from spirituality vs. religion, neurophilosophy, and the limits of scientific and experiential knowledge to the future of education and his work with Esoterica.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEsotericaChannel

Website: https://www.justinsledge.com/esoterica

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Justin Sledge & Esoterica

01:00 - Defining Esoteric vs. Exoteric Practices

02:30 - Mysticism in Major Religions & Occultism

04:00 - Dr. Sledge’s Approach to Belief, Religion & Intellectual Humility

06:00 - Symbolism, Myths & Navigation of Reality

09:00 - Sensory Experience and Prayer

11:00 - Language Learning for Religious Studies

13:00 - The Importance of Reading in Original Languages

15:00 - Science, Mathematics & Logic in Truth-Seeking

17:00 - The Limits of Propositional & Experimental Knowledge

18:30 - Phenomenology, Meaning, and Experience

20:30 - Qualities for Rigorous Phenomenology

22:00 - Interdisciplinary Approach: Neuroscience, Philosophy & Religion

27:00 - Learning, Intellectual Humility, and Psychological Development

34:00 - Belief vs. Knowledge: Navigating Mystical Experience

40:00 - Hubris, Memory, and Experiencing ‘Truth’

44:00 - Dr. Sledge’s Philosophy on Education

48:00 - Expanding Esoterica: Future Projects & Community Engagement

52:00 - How to Connect with Dr. Sledge & Closing Thoughts

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