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.
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“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]
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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
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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
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Follow John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon
Follow Gregg Henriques: Website | Twitter | UTOK
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Thank you for watching!
