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Participatory sense-making is a term coined by Hanne De Jaegher & Ezequiel Di Paolo. Both these philosophers will be featured in upcoming episodes.

Andrea Hiott hosts Rebecca Todd, Shay Welch, and Penijean Gracefire explore intricate themes of participatory sensemaking, the concept of the 'third entity,' and the impact of trauma and love on interpersonal relationships. The discussion delves into how the body acts as a data-gathering device, how sensory inputs shape our understanding of the world, and the importance of mutual sense-making in a highly complex and often overwhelming environment. Each speaker shares their unique perspectives and experiences, from cognitive neuroscience to ethical interactions, ultimately highlighting the significance of staying connected both with others and oneself. This conversation is intellectually stimulating and emotionally enriching, drawing on neuroscience, philosophy, and mental health to offer fresh insights into navigating the complexities of human interaction.

00:00 Introduction to the Body as a Data Gathering Device
00:57 The Futility of Communication and Social Media
02:35 Welcome to Love and Philosophy
02:52 Participatory Sense Making and Social Cognition
04:46 Meet the Three: Beck Todd, Shay Welch, and Penijean Gracefire
05:46 Rebecca Todd: Cognitive Neuroscience and Life Experience
08:13 Penijean Gracefire: Neurotechnology and Human Function
12:21 Shay Welch: Philosophy, Public Art, and Participatory Sensemaking
15:50 Exploring the Concept of the Body
23:09 The Role of EEG in Understanding the Brain
52:36 The Impact of Trauma on Sensemaking
53:25 Introduction to Anchors and Interactions
54:14 Effortful Sense Making Shaped by Love
55:16 Individual Differences in Sensory Systems
56:24 Neuromodulation and Sense Making
59:24 Visualization and Communication Challenges
01:03:07 Complexity Fatigue and Bandwidth
01:14:11 Neuromodulation Device Experiment
01:20:35 Participatory Sense Making with the More-than-Human World
01:29:34 Challenges of Virtual Interaction
01:36:48 The Futility and Hope of Communication

L&P Newsletter

PSM Paper

A Multiplicity of Worlds

What is Participatory Sense-making and Why Should We Care?

Steve Paxton, originator of the practice of contact improvisation, himself says: “The reason it’s called contact improvisation is because there is a third entity that arises in the state – it is the state of agreement between the two of you that neither one is leading. It doesn’t become leaderless, the two of you are leading.” Source

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