Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal

Reality, God, Consciousness | Donald Hoffman Λ Philip Goff

Dec 19, 2023

Donald Hoffman, a cognitive scientist renowned for his interface theory of perception, joins philosopher Philip Goff, an advocate of panpsychism, to explore profound questions about consciousness and reality. They discuss how human perception shapes our understanding of existence and challenge conventional views on evolution. Delving into themes like the nature of reality, the limitations of scientific paradigms, and the potential for consciousness to underlie physical laws, their dialogue invites listeners to rethink the meaning of life and our place in the cosmos.

02:27:06

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Episode guests

Phillip 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.

Intro

3min

Beyond binaries: A Cosmic Perspective

13min

Quantum Reality and Consciousness

9min

Reimagining Space-Time and Reality

17min

Challenging Assumptions: Physics, Philosophy, and Personal Growth

4min

Consciousness Beyond Physics

21min

Theoretical Boundaries in Science

5min

Challenging Scientific Paradigms

15min

Exploring Evolution: Truths, Frameworks, and Philosophical Insights

5min

10.

Perception vs. Reality: The Limits of Understanding

25min

11.

Exploring Cosmic Purpose and Consciousness

25min

12.

Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement

3min

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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