Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal

Reality, God, Consciousness | Donald Hoffman Λ Philip Goff

Dec 19, 2023

Cognitive scientist Donald Hoffman and philosopher Philip Goff discuss consciousness, perception, and panpsychism. They explore the limitations of scientific theories, debate the reality of neurons, and delve into deeper structures in physics. The speakers also touch on the evolution of panpsychism, the importance of therapy for self-discovery, and the flaws of time in relation to evolution. They question the accuracy of our senses and explore the possibility of a deeper reality beyond our current understanding.

02:27:06

Creator website

Episode guests

Philip Goff

Donald Hoffman

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The interface theory of perception suggests that human perceptions are shaped more by evolutionary imperatives than an accurate representation of reality.

Panpsychism proposes that consciousness is fundamental, and the universe itself may be a conscious entity.

Physics is exploring structures beyond space-time and the possibility of consciousness being the foundation of reality.

The limitations of space-time are questioned, and consciousness is proposed as a fundamental aspect that should be explored by physics.

Scientific theories have inherent limitations, and it is crucial to approach them with humility and recognize their assumptions.

Deep dives

The Primacy of Consciousness and the Illusion of Physical Reality

The podcast episode explores the idea that our basic science is just equations and doesn't tell us much about fundamental reality. Professor Donald Hoffman presents the interface theory of perception, which suggests that human perceptions are more shaped by evolutionary survival imperatives than an accurate representation of the external world. Professor Philip Goff introduces panpsychism, which suggests that consciousness is fundamental and that the universe itself may be a conscious entity. They discuss how physics is looking for structures beyond space-time and the possibility of consciousness being the foundation of reality. The conversation delves into the debates on the existence of neurons and the nature of reality as observed through different philosophical perspectives.

Introduction

3min

The Relevance of Professor Goff's Book 'Why'

18min

Exploring the Different Senses of 'Real' and the Debate about Neurons

4min

Moving Beyond Space-Time: Exploring Deeper Structures in Physics

17min

Physics Objections and Misconceptions

7min

Panpsychism: From Laughter to Serious Consideration

20min

The Importance of Therapy and Self-Discovery

2min

Limits and Projections of Scientific Theories

16min

Evolution and the Flaws of Time: A Critical Analysis

5min

10.

Rethinking Reality: Evolution, Perception, and Consciousness

9min

11.

The Illusion of Limited Resources and Competition

27min

12.

Consciousness and the Limitations of Perception

17min

Donald Hoffman, cognitive scientist, and Philip Goff, philosopher, discuss consciousness, evolution, perception, and panpsychism. Insights into the nature of reality.

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmaIBxkqcT4

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Intro

02:46 - Goff’s World View

11:39 - Do Neurons Exist?

28:30 - What Is Real?

39:22- Objections to Hoffman’s Views

58:45 - Evolution

1:37:19 - Reductionism

1:49:38 - Meaning Of Life

2:01:32 - Infinite Consciousness

2:05:40 - Multiverse

2:15:25 - Outro

NOTE: The perspectives expressed by guests don't necessarily mirror my own. There's a versicolored arrangement of people on TOE, each harboring distinct viewpoints, as part of my endeavor to understand the perspectives that exist.

THANK YOU: To Mike Duffey for your insight, help, and recommendations on this channel.

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