In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Marc Gafni, a visionary thinker and author known for his Unique Self Theory, dives deep into the contrasts between the concepts of 'No Self' and 'Unique Self.' He explores the role of personal identity in authentic connections, the transformative power of emotional pain in creativity, and critiques traditional views on human needs. Together with his insights on the journey from separate self to unique expression, Gafni presents a rich philosophical tapestry that invites listeners to reconsider their understanding of self and existence.
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Jumpa Roshi Story
Marc Gafni recounts a story about a "showdown" with Jumpa Roshi regarding no-self vs. unique self.
Gafni claimed Jumpa Roshi's unique personality is evidence of unique self, which Roshi conceded.
insights INSIGHT
Unique Self and Love
No-self teachings are helpful but can't fully account for individual uniqueness.
Gafni argues that true love and appreciation arise from recognizing another's distinct qualities.
insights INSIGHT
True Self and Unique Self in Love
True love needs both true self (shared unity) and unique self (individual distinction).
Recognizing both allows for genuine connection without jealousy or the need to hijack another's identity.
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Your Unique Self, The Radical Path to Personal Enlightenment
The Radical Path to Personal Enlightenment
Marc Gafni
Dr. Marc Gafni's "Your Unique Self" offers a comprehensive framework for personal enlightenment, integrating insights from various spiritual traditions, modern science, and postmodern thought. The book explores the concept of 'unique self' as a path to understanding one's true nature and purpose. It challenges traditional notions of self and proposes a new worldview capable of transforming individuals and society. Gafni's work emphasizes the importance of integrating personal growth with social responsibility, advocating for a more conscious and compassionate approach to life. The book's elegant and concise articulation of complex ideas makes it accessible to a wide audience.
Course: Unique Self 2.0 – Portal 2: Beyond Maslow: A New Hierarchy of Needs(with Dr. Marc Gafni)Begins Sunday, March 9th, 2025Learn more and enroll here: https://www.parallax-media.com/courses/unique-self-20-portal-2Dr. Marc and Andrew discuss the differences and crossover between the Zen No-Self and the Unique Self. Why does enlightenment have to be personal?`Bio: Dr. Marc Gafni is a visionary thinker, social activist, and passionate philosopher known for his “source code teachings,” including Unique Self Theory, the Five Selves, the Amorous Cosmos, A Politics of Evolutionary Love, A Return to Eros, and Digital Intimacy. He is the author of over twenty-five books, including the award-winning Your Unique Self: The Radical Path to Personal Enlightenment.Dr. Gafni holds a doctorate in philosophy from Oxford University and Orthodox rabbinic ordination. He teaches at the cutting edge of philosophy and spirituality in the West, working to articulate what he and his colleagues, including Dr. Zak Stein, call CosmoErotic Humanism. At its core are First Principles and First Values, Anthro-Ontology, and a Universal Grammar of Value, forming the foundation for a global ethos in response to the Meta Crisis.He is the Co-Founder and Co-President of the Office for the Future, the Center for World Religion and Philosophy, and the Foundation for Conscious Evolution. Their shared mission includes creating a Great Library in multiple forms to help evolve the source code of consciousness and culture.
Parallax 