#26 - Michael Johnson | Jhanas, Awakening and Vasocomputation
Aug 5, 2024
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Join Michael Johnson, a philosopher and neuroscientist known for his groundbreaking work in consciousness studies, as he dives into the intriguing world of jhanas and awakening. He explores how language shapes reality and critiques traditional philosophy through Wittgenstein's lens. The conversation reveals the significance of reconnecting with nature to foster cognitive freedom. Johnson also discusses the transformative experiences of enlightenment, the brain's predictive abilities, and the fascinating connection between meditation and our physical states.
Wittgenstein's view of language as context-specific games illustrates how meanings evolve, illuminating philosophical inquiries and their significance.
The distinction between 'word cells' and 'normies' highlights the importance of linguistic literacy to navigate language manipulation and power dynamics.
Buddhism serves as a guiding framework in understanding consciousness, offering insights for achieving emotional freedom and well-being.
Deep dives
Wittgenstein's Perspective on Language and Meaning
Wittgenstein posits that language functions similarly to games, where meanings are constructed through specific contexts or 'language games.' This view suggests that the significance of words arises from our shared understanding within these contexts, making some philosophical inquiries dissolve while others emerge. For instance, questions regarding the nature of science or different fields, such as physics and sociology, shift in importance under this framework. By embracing this approach, one can navigate complexities and eliminate confusion, recognizing the limitations and specific applications of language.
The Concept of Word Cells and Normies
The distinction between 'word cells' and 'normies' is introduced, with word cells being individuals adept in manipulating language to achieve control, often for ulterior motives. This manipulation can confuse others, yielding power over them, as language can obscure reality. Conversely, normies represent those who seek straightforward understanding and are susceptible to being misled by skilled word cells. The implication of this dichotomy speaks to the potential dangers posed by those who use language craftily, underscoring the importance of linguistic literacy as a defense.
Neuroscience: Pre-Paradigmatic Challenges
Neuroscience is characterized as a pre-paradigmatic field, lacking a cohesive framework, which leads to conflicting models and theories. This situation resembles early alchemy, where principles were not systematically organized, compared to the established nature of chemistry. The absence of a solid paradigm in neuroscience necessitates a strong intuitive judgment or 'good taste' to discern valid theories from misleading ones. This highlights the ongoing search for frameworks that can better explain neural functioning and the human experience.
Understanding Smooth Muscle and the Human Experience
The discussion highlights the role of vascular smooth muscle and its ability to latch, effectively freezing certain neural pathways and thereby influencing one's emotional and cognitive experience. When smooth muscles engage in this latching process, they create patterns of tension that can limit the brain's dynamic range and hinder processing capacities. These latches, often formed due to past traumas or learned behaviors, complicate the individual's capacity for emotional freedom. Releasing these latches is essential for restoring fluidity within the nervous system and may lead to improved mental well-being.
Buddhism as a Treasure Map in Pre-Paradigmatic Fields
Buddhism is presented as a valuable treasure map in the landscape of pre-paradigmatic thought, especially regarding consciousness and phenomenology. Its teachings on enlightenment and structured meditative practices offer insights into navigating the complexities of the human mind and achieving profound states of well-being. The historical significance of Buddhism emphasizes its potential to illuminate the pathways toward awakening amid confusion. By exploring these ancient philosophies, one can find guiding principles that help make sense of the chaotic and evolving nature of human experience.
Michael Edward Johnson is a philosopher, neuroscientist and entrepreneur. He’s the author of Principia Qualia and the co-founder of the Qualia Research Institute. He’s done pioneering work at the intersection of mathematics and consciousness studies, seeking to systematically map and measure subjective experiences. He writes at opentheory.net.