Alan Watts explores the limits of language, examining the unexamined systems of belief underneath language and the substance of form. He discusses the Chinese views of nature, the limitations of using language to define the ineffable, and the importance of recognizing the universe as a process. The podcast also explores the subjective nature of perception, the development of music and theatrical conventions, and the importance of challenging conventional beliefs and seeking personal understanding.
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Quick takeaways
Language limits our understanding of the world as it is based on selective interpretations.
By immersing ourselves in different cultures and traditions, we can broaden our understanding and challenge our assumptions.
Deep dives
Teaching Meditation
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The Limits of Language
Alan Watts explores the limitations of language in truly understanding the world. He explains that our knowledge of the world is based on selective interpretations. The conventional view of reality is shaped by societal influences, media, and cultural biases. Watts argues that true understanding comes from direct experience and suspending descriptions. By being fully present and aware of the actual happenings in life, we can transcend the limitations imposed by language.
Different Perspectives
Watts highlights the importance of recognizing and appreciating different perspectives. He urges us to study and learn from various cultures and traditions to gain new insights and challenge our own assumptions. By immersing ourselves in different ways of thinking and seeing the world, we can broaden our understanding, question societal norms, and develop a more inclusive perspective.
Rediscovering Life's Beauty
Watts encourages us to re-examine our perceptions of the world and rediscover its beauty. He emphasizes the importance of artists in teaching us to see beyond the conventional and appreciate the subtleties of life. Through art, such as landscape paintings and musical compositions, we can recognize the depth and intricacy present in even the most mundane aspects of our surroundings. Exploring different art forms helps us cultivate a deeper appreciation for the world and break free from societal conventions.
Taking a trip through the constructs of form and labeling, Alan Watts philosophizes about the limits of language.
This series is brought to you by the Alan Watts Organization and Ram Dass’ Love Serve Remember Foundation. Visit play.alanwatts.org for full talks from Alan Watts.
Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/alan
This time on Being in the Way, Alan Watts philosophizes about:
Unexamined systems of belief underneath language
Ideas that are built into our common sense
The substance of form, pattern, and organization
The profound mystery of matter
Limitations in trying to use language to define the ineffable
‘Matter’ as a root word for many things
Chinese views of nature
Why verbs do not necessarily need subjects
Being at peace with ourselves in a world of form
Recognizing the universe as a process
“When we divide the world into operations and agents, doers and doings, then we ask such silly questions as ‘who knows, who does it, what does it?’ When the what that is supposed to do it is the same as the doing. You could very easily see that the whole process of the universe may be understood as process, nobody is doing it.” – Alan Watts