#657: Professor John Vervaeke — How to Build a Life of Wisdom, Flow, and Contemplation

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Feb 23, 2023

John Vervaeke, a professor of psychology and cognitive science at the University of Toronto, delves into the pursuit of wisdom and the nature of consciousness. He discusses the interplay between intuition and logic in problem-solving and explores how practices like Tai Chi can foster flow states and enhance well-being. Vervaeke highlights the importance of shared practices for building meaningful connections and reflects on the dynamic relationship between language, culture, and cognition, offering insights into how we can navigate our complexities for personal growth.

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ADVICE

Wisdom and Foolishness

Cultivate wisdom by understanding foolishness, distinct from ignorance.
Foolishness arises from intelligent processes making us self-deceptive.

INSIGHT

Participatory Knowing

Participatory knowing is knowing by being, shaped by how you and reality fit.
This knowing is carried in your sense of self and interconnected identities.

INSIGHT

Affordances Defined

Affordances are real relations describing how you interact with objects.
They represent the fittedness and availability for interaction.

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Lord of Light

Roger Zelazny

Roger Zelazny's "Lord of Light" is a science fantasy novel that reimagines Hindu mythology in a futuristic setting. The story follows a group of immortal beings who have colonized a planet and established a society based on their interpretations of ancient scriptures. The novel explores themes of power, religion, and the nature of immortality. Zelazny's writing style is characterized by its wit, intelligence, and philosophical depth. The book is considered a significant work in the science fantasy genre, appreciated for its imaginative world-building and exploration of complex themes.

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Siddhartha

Herman Hesse

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Searching for Bobby Fischer

Blackstone Audiobooks Inc.

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Gene Walden

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Descartes' error

Emotion, Reason, and the Human Brain

Antonio R. Damasio MD PhD

Antonio Damasio

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