Mind-Body Solution Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes: What is Exogenous Mind Theory? Metaphysics, Psychedelics, & Mind At Large
Mar 6, 2025
Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes, a philosopher of mind and metaphysics at the University of Exeter, dives into the complexities of consciousness and psychedelics. He discusses how panpsychism challenges traditional materialism and the philosophical implications of psychedelic experiences. Peter shares his intense 5-MeO-DMT journey, highlighting ego dissolution and a profound sense of connection. He also introduces exogenous mind theory, suggesting consciousness is received from a larger mind, and critiques the commercialization of psychedelic research while envisioning a brighter future for metaphysical exploration.
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Revival Of British Absolute Idealism
- Whitehead and British absolute idealism revive realist alternatives to Cartesian dualism and 20th-century physicalism.
- Studying this lost idealist tradition reshapes how we frame the mind-body problem.
Three-Part Frame For Consciousness
- Define consciousness in three parts: contents, differentiators from non-consciousness, and relations to non-consciousness.
- Answering 'what is consciousness' requires assessing many contested theories across those three dimensions.
Hard Problem Drives Panpsychism's Return
- The ‘hard problem’ reignited interest in panpsychism and idealism as twentieth-century answers looked unsatisfactory.
- Panpsychism has a long pedigree from the Greeks through Leibniz, Spinoza, Whitehead and contemporary thinkers.
