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Living Mirrors with Dr. James Cooke

Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes on integrating philosophy and metaphysics into psychedelic therapy | Living Mirrors #113

Jun 2, 2023
Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes, a philosopher of mind and expert in Whitehead, Nietzsche, and panpsychism, shares profound insights on integrating metaphysics into psychedelic therapy. He navigates the intricate relationship between metaphysics and consciousness, emphasizing diverse philosophical perspectives. The conversation touches on personal transformations through psychedelics, critiques traditional mind-body separations, and advocates for a holistic understanding of cognition. Sjöstedt-Hughes also highlights the evolving academic interest in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
01:05:00

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Quick takeaways

  • The distinction between metaphysics and mysticism is vital, as metaphysics offers structured frameworks for understanding reality beyond mere subjective experiences.
  • Philosophical engagement with psychedelic experiences can enhance therapeutic outcomes by providing meaning and grounding for profound realizations during sessions.

Deep dives

Defining Metaphysics in the Context of Psychedelic Therapy

Metaphysics is not always clearly defined in psychedelic research, often being conflated with spirituality or mysticism. A strict philosophical definition of metaphysics focuses on abstract concepts that transcend physical realities, stemming from Aristotle's work. This academic lens emphasizes questions about substance, causation, and existence rather than the mystical or supernatural. Differentiating metaphysics from mysticism is crucial, as the former offers structured frameworks for understanding reality, while the latter pertains to subjective experiences often deemed inexplicable.

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