

John Vervaeke: Ultimate Reality — God and Beyond
Mar 8, 2024
John Vervaeke, a cognitive scientist and philosopher at the University of Toronto, dives deep into the nature of God and the universe. He discusses how philosophical and theological texts can reshape our understanding of divine existence, embracing a more relational approach. Vervaeke also elaborates on the critical intersection of philosophy, cognitive science, and spirituality, arguing for a more integrated way to find meaning. His upcoming course promises transformative insights through engaging lectures and collaborative discussions.
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Sacredness Essential for Flourishing
- A transformative relationship with the sacred that grounds virtue and value is essential for human flourishing.
- This aligns with having a right relationship to sacredness individually and collectively.
Narrative and Music in New Sacred
- Narrative, music, and myth remain relevant even in less personalistic views of God beyond traditional theism.
- These elements are crucial for faith, especially when detached from belief, involving an imaginal relationship to the ultimate.
Secular Entry to Ultimate Reality
- Scientific worldview entails a metaphysics that dovetails well with relational ultimate reality.
- Skeptics can approach divinity via cognitive science without needing mythological commitments.