Me, my world and I | Barry Smith, Hannah Critchlow, Gary Lachman
Oct 31, 2023
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Renowned philosopher Barry Smith, neuroscientist Hannah Critchlow, and author Gary Lachman discuss collective experience versus subjectivity. They delve into the connection between subjectivity and personal experiences, explore how crowds influence individuals, examine emergent behaviors in groups, and touch on telepathy, precognitive dreams, and neuroscience. They also explore the correlation between heartbeat detection and trader profitability, discuss the balance between individualism and collectivism in Western culture, and analyze the decline of IQ and the rise of 'me' culture.
Experience is not purely subjective, but can also be influenced and shaped by shared and group experiences.
Subjective experience is about having personal, individual experiences, but subjectivity can also be informed by something objective.
Our ability to engage in shared collective experiences is deeply embedded in our neural circuitry.
Deep dives
Experience as Collective and Social
Experience is not purely subjective but can also be influenced and shaped by shared and group experiences. Crowds, such as in football matches or political rallies, can create a shared consciousness or group mind. Meditative and psychedelic conditions can also lead to shared consciousness. Language plays a social role in shaping our experiences as we adopt the thoughts of others. Subjectivity is not separate from objectivity, as our experiences are informed by external factors. Conscious experience is not entirely under our control and can be influenced by the things we sense and the people around us.
The Relationship Between Subjectivity and Language
Subjective experience is about having personal, individual experiences, but subjectivity can also be informed by something objective. Experience is not just something occurring within an individual's mind but is connected to the world outside. Subjective experiences can be influenced by external factors like visual and auditory impressions, tastes, or smells. The Cartesian distinction between inner and outer perception is flawed, as subjective experience is constantly informed by our interactions with the external world. Conscious experience is not entirely under our control, and some experiences are shaped by our interactions with others and the things around us.
The Role of Embodied Cognition
Our ability to engage in shared collective experiences is deeply embedded in our neural circuitry. Being part of a group makes individuals feel safer, and our neural connections are wired to seek social interaction. Brain waves synchronize in groups, and joint activities like singing or exercising can boost brain synchronicity. The connection between the heart and the brain, signaled by the heartbeat, plays a role in accessing collective intelligence and wisdom. The ability to detect our heartbeat can lead to better decision-making and more profitable outcomes in certain contexts. Our sense of perception is not solely limited to the brain, as peripheral nerve cells in the body provide additional information that shapes our experiences.
The Individual versus Collective Experience
Western culture tends to emphasize individual subjective experiences, but collective experiences also hold value. The distinction between individualism and collectivism is complex and not mutually exclusive. Both individual and shared experiences have their significance. The focus on individual experiences in the West has led to a rise in a 'me' culture, but there are still benefits to be found in shared collective experiences. Group experiences can provide a sense of safety, foster empathy, and encourage innovation. However, it is essential to maintain a balance between individual and collective experiences, resisting the disappearance of the individual in a socialized world.
The Influence of Culture and Commercial Interests
Cultural perspectives differ regarding the importance of individual or collective experiences. Some cultures prioritize the 'we' perspective, valuing group dynamics and identity. Capitalism and commercialism have also contributed to the emphasis on experiences, with a shift from goods and services to creating memorable moments. The experience economy has led to a focus on enhancing individual experiences through various industries. However, it is important to recognize that the emphasis on experiences can also be driven by commercial interests and marketing strategies.
We see experience as quintessentially subjective. But while we take this for granted might it be an error? From parliament and politics, festivals and football stadiums, to weddings and funerals, some of our most significant experiences occur in moments shared in collective experience with others.
Should we conclude that experience is always shared and mediated through others? Or is collective experience and behaviour a dangerous idea that can be used by authority to impose subservience?
Renowned musician and author on mysticism and the occult Gary Lachman, internationally aclaimed neuroscientist Hannah Critchlow, philosophy professor and expert of the senses Barry Smith debate collective experience versus subjectivity. Matt O'Dowd hosts.
