Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard Andrew Newberg Returns (on Sex, God, and the Brain)
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Aug 29, 2024 Dr. Andrew Newberg, a fascinating neuroscientist and author, dives deep into how spirituality intertwines with sexuality. He shares insights on the evolutionary ties that bind these two aspects, revealing how they activate similar neural pathways during intense experiences. The discussion also touches on the biochemistry of god and sex, exploring the societal impacts of rituals and the balance of consent. Newberg’s exploration of orgasmic meditation and its spiritual implications leaves listeners contemplating the profound connections within human experience.
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The Ball, Cat, and Bathroom Break
- Andrew Newberg participated in a memory study where he had to remember and repeat words in an MRI scanner.
- The experience highlighted the challenge of controlling thoughts during brain scans and the reliance on averaging data across subjects.
Origins of Belief Differences
- Andrew Newberg's initial goal was to understand why people have different beliefs despite observing the same world.
- He questioned how our brains shape our perceptions and sought answers through neuroscience and philosophy.
Seizures and Spirituality
- There's a link between seizures and unusual religious experiences, raising questions about the neurological basis of belief.
- However, true religious experiences tend to be isolated events, unlike the recurring nature of seizures.