For the Sake of Argument #49: John Vervaeke: What is Zen NeoPlatonism?
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Jun 20, 2024 
Philosopher and cognitive scientist John Vervaeke discusses Zen Neoplatonism, blending Zen Buddhism and Neoplatonism to address the Meaning Crisis. They explore the ungraspable nature of ultimate reality, bridge subjectivity and objectivity, and advocate for a non-theistic approach to spiritual growth. The discussion emphasizes integrated thinking, transcendent experiences, and the significance of space as a metaphor in cognition and rationality.
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Zen Neoplatonism Defined
- Zen Neoplatonism aims to reconcile Western Neoplatonism and Eastern Zen to address the Meaning Crisis.
- It seeks a mutual dialogue that combines contemplative and rational integration of the sacred and ultimate reality.
Complementary Strengths of Zen and Neoplatonism
- Neoplatonism focuses on the vertical unity of all beings under an ultimate principle, while Zen focuses on horizontal integration beyond subjectivity and objectivity.
- Their strengths complement each other to provide a fuller understanding of reality and the sacred.
Ultimate Reality is Non-Dual
- Ultimate reality cannot be grasped through thought or experience but is non-dual, uniting subjectivity and objectivity.
- Zen addresses the horizontal relationship between experience and reality; Neoplatonism addresses the vertical relationship between the one and many beings.