The Tao Te Ching is a central text in Taoist philosophy and religion. It consists of 81 brief chapters or sections that discuss the nature of the Tao, which is described as the source and ideal of all existence. The text emphasizes living in harmony with nature, the importance of simplicity, humility, and the interconnectedness of all things. It critiques unnatural actions and social activism based on abstract moralism, advocating for a life of 'nonaction' (wu wei) and spontaneity. The text has been highly influential in Chinese philosophy and has been translated numerous times, making it one of the most translated texts in world literature[2][3][4].
In 'The Matter with Things', Iain McGilchrist delves into the neuroscience, epistemology, and metaphysics of the brain's hemispheres and their impact on human perception and understanding. The book is divided into two volumes: 'The Ways to Truth' and 'What Then is True?'. McGilchrist argues that the left hemisphere's dominance has led to a skewed perception of the world, neglecting the vital role of the right hemisphere in integrating science, reason, intuition, and imagination. He explores topics such as attention, perception, judgement, and the nature of reality, including concepts like time, space, consciousness, and the sacred. The book is a call to re-enchant the world and ourselves by recognizing the deeper, more holistic understanding provided by the right hemisphere[1][3][4].
This book argues that the division of the brain into two hemispheres is essential to human existence, allowing for two incompatible versions of the world. The left hemisphere is detail-oriented, prefers mechanisms to living things, and is inclined to self-interest, while the right hemisphere has greater breadth, flexibility, and generosity. McGilchrist takes the reader on a journey through the history of Western culture, illustrating the tension between these two worlds as revealed in the thought and belief of thinkers and artists from ancient to modern times. He argues that the increasing dominance of the left hemisphere in today’s world has potentially disastrous consequences.
Dr. Iain McGilchrist, a psychiatrist, philosopher, and author, joins the FitMind Podcast to explain how the brain’s two hemispheres shape our perception, attention, and consciousness. He explores how the left brain’s dominance in modern culture leads to a fragmented, analytical worldview, while the right hemisphere offers a more connected, meaningful experience of reality.
We discuss the moral and spiritual dimensions of attention, the limits of language, the nature of consciousness and the self, and how walking supports fluid thinking. McGilchrist also shares insights from his recent work with biologist Mike Levin on emergence and form.
This episode combines neuroscience, philosophy, and spirituality, inviting a shift toward a more balanced and integrated perspective on the world.
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Website: www.fitmind.org
SHOW NOTES
0:00 | Intro to Iain McGilchrist
2:09 | Attention in Left & Right Brain
17:00 | How the Left Brain Came to Dominate
19:08 | Brain Hemispheres & Happiness
25:25 | Why Right Brain is the True Master
34:30 | Great Truths
35:19 | Morality of Attention
41:44 | Explaining Sacred
45:12 | Shortcomings of Language
51:28 | Distinct vs. Divided
56:20 | Balancing Brain Hemispheres
1:06:31 | Sense of Self & Relations
1:12:15 | Mirror Neurons
1:14:32 | Walking for Fluidity of Thought
1:23:34 | Consciousness Theory
1:31:07 | Water Analogy
1:35:52 | Work with Mike Levin
1:46:22 | Where to Follow His Work
Substack: https://iainmcgilchrist.substack.com/
Website: https://channelmcgilchrist.com
The FitMind Podcast: Mental Fitness, Neuroscience & Psychology 
