Sweeny vs Bard #66 Empire of Mind with Max Borders
Oct 26, 2024
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Max Borders, the founding hierophant of The Grey Robes and author of several books on decentralization, dives deep into the concept of 'Empire of the Mind.' He discusses how cultural narratives shape governance and the role of technology in redefining identity. The conversation also covers the tension between surveillance-driven elites and the push for decentralization, alongside the philosophical interplay of sutra and tantra in personal development. Borders emphasizes the need for shared beliefs and collaboration in a rapidly evolving society.
Navigating uncertainty fosters self-discovery and personal growth by confronting existential realities like change, evil, and death.
The concept of 'Empire of the Mind' emphasizes collective thought over physical territory and highlights the importance of fostering unity in diversity.
Emerging technologies, especially AI, necessitate a digital age spirituality that integrates philosophical and theological insights to maintain human values.
Deep dives
Navigating Uncertainty
Times of uncertainty and transition are a natural part of the cycle where the world can feel chaotic, but this is also when opportunities for self-discovery arise. To navigate through this disarray, individuals are encouraged to face existential realities such as the inevitability of change, the presence of evil, and the certainty of death. This confrontation is essential for preparing individuals to deal with what lies ahead, facilitating personal growth in the shadow of uncertainty. By acknowledging these darker aspects, a collective effort can be made to restore light and hope in the world.
The Concept of Empire
The idea of an 'Empire of the Mind' originates from ancient Persian thought, emphasizing a shared intellectual and cultural unity over physical territory. This concept suggests that the initial form of empire was rooted in collective thought rather than geographical expansion, where the focus is on fostering relationships and understanding beyond tribal borders. As communities grow, maintaining coherence between unity and pluralism becomes crucial to avoid conflict and build broader social constructs. The reflections on this historical context enable a deeper comprehension of contemporary global dynamics, emphasizing the need for a new type of elite that promotes shared beliefs and frameworks.
The Role of Technology and AI
The interaction between humanity and emerging technologies, particularly AI, presents both challenges and possibilities for understanding what it means to be human. As technological advancements create a global empire devoid of traditional borders, the ability to operate within this framework while preserving human values becomes essential. The discourse highlights the necessity for a digital age spirituality that embraces philosophical and theological perspectives to navigate this new landscape peacefully. By acknowledging the dual nature of technological developments, individuals can engage more effectively in the complexities of our global society.
Confronting Change and Truth
The acknowledgment of change as a constant reality necessitates confronting existential anxieties that arise in response to societal complexity. Those unwilling to face these transformative experiences risk being overtaken by authoritarian forces that desire control over individual freedoms. Developing a mindset rooted in truth, particularly in the context of increasing technological sophistication, allows individuals to navigate these shifts more meaningfully. Through designing narratives that reflect and unify diverse experiences, communities can foster resilience and coherence in the face of inevitable change.
The Power of Narrative and Mythos
Engaging in narrative construction emerges as a pivotal activity to bridge connections among people and foster collective understanding. Stories serve as vehicles for transmitting shared values and cultures, enabling dialogue between diverse groups and establishing a common ground. Exploring the mythos aspect can help reveal altruistic motives behind actions and develop deeper relational ties that transcend mere logical calculations. This approach offers a comprehensive understanding of human nature and interaction, promoting empathy, respect, and cooperation within communities.
This is an invitation to Max Border's new course, Empire of the Mind: A Grey Robes Symposium, which will include a wide-ranging discussion on the meaning of empire, the function of religion, sutra, tantra, and decentralization. The course starts on November 10th. Sign up here: https://www.parallax-media.com/courses/empire-of-the-mind-a-grey-robes-symposium-with-max-bordersParallax Courses and Events: https://www.parallax-media.com/courses-and-events
Max Borders is the founding hierophant of The Grey Robes, a siblinghood committed to psychosocial development, virtuous practice, and human self-organization. Borders is author of The Social Singularity: A Decentralist Manifesto (2018) and The Decentralist: Mission, Morality and Meaning in the Age of Crypto (2022). His most recent book is Underthrow: How Jefferson’s Dangerous Idea Will Spark a New Revolution (2023). He also writes for the Underthrow Substack. Borders is also founder and Executive Director of Social Evolution, a non-profit organization dedicated to liberating humanity and solving social problems through innovation. Alexander Bard, a Swedish philosopher, author, and speaker, is known for his work in digital philosophy, exploring technology’s impact on society and culture. Alongside co-author Jan Söderqvist, Bard has written multiple influential books, such as The Futurica Trilogy (including The Netocrats and The Body Machines), Syntheism - Creating God in the Internet Age, and Digital Libido: Sex, Power and Violence in the Network Society. These works delve into how the internet and digitalization shape societal structures, human behavior, and even spirituality.His newest book, Process and Event (2024), rounds off a 25-year philosophical exploration by Bard and Söderqvist and completes their "Narratology" trilogy. This book builds on previous themes, proposing that technology and spirituality are converging as humanity’s search for meaning evolves, possibly birthing a new form of digital divinity. Bard and Söderqvist examine historical and cultural shifts leading to an age where AI and technology serve as humanity's next evolutionary leap, merging modern science, mysticism, and a radical rethinking of historical Western ideas.
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