New Books in Psychology cover image

New Books in Psychology

Thomas Metzinger, "The Elephant and the Blind: The Experience of Pure Consciousness: Philosophy, Science, and 500+ Experiential Reports" (MIT Press, 2024)

Mar 6, 2024
Philosopher Thomas Metzinger delves into the essence of pure consciousness, drawing on 500+ experiential reports. He explores states of pure awareness, non-egoic experiences in meditation, and the intersection of consciousness, science, and AI ethics. The podcast discusses the clash between spirituality and intellectual inquiry, the challenges of exploring consciousness through personal experiences, and the balance between extreme spiritual beliefs and skepticism.
51:34

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Quick takeaways

  • Pure awareness is described as the simplest form of conscious experience, shedding light on the fundamental aspects of consciousness.
  • Non dual awareness signifies the dissolution of subject-object distinction in consciousness, leading to an expansive sense of knowing.

Deep dives

Thomas Metzinger Discusses Pure Awareness as the Minimal Experience of Consciousness

In his new book, Thomas Metzinger delves into the concept of pure awareness as the minimal experience of consciousness. Drawing on over 500 experiential reports from meditators worldwide, he describes this state as selfless, timeless, and perhaps the purest essence of consciousness. The hypothesis put forth is that pure awareness may be the simplest form of conscious experience, a prime candidate for understanding the core components of consciousness.

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