The Giants Shoulder #61 Meet the Neuroscientist Unifying Consciousness, Free Energy & Psychedelics!
Oct 3, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Adam Safron, a cognitive neuroscientist and former research fellow at Johns Hopkins, dives into the intricate connections between consciousness, psychedelics, and the Free Energy Principle. He explains how psychedelics can alter our high-level assumptions, offering insights into personal transformation. Adam discusses the role of brain rhythms in unity of experience and shares fascinating DMT encounters that challenge beliefs. Expect to explore the effects of psychedelics on synaptogenesis, compassion in therapy, and the nature of ultimate reality!
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Free Energy Principle As Universal Modeling
- The Free Energy Principle frames any bounded system as modeling its world to persist over time.
- Systems minimize surprisal by predicting inputs and acting to keep their preferred states stable.
Consciousness Emerges From Prediction Errors
- Conscious access arises when prediction errors propagate deeper in the hierarchy and become unresolved.
- Skilled 'ready-to-hand' action stays unconscious until a prediction fails and draws attention.
Avoid The Dark-Room Misunderstanding
- Don't assume surprise minimization means hiding in a dark room; organisms predict future states and pursue adaptive policies.
- Use active inference: plan actions that keep your expected future self within viable ranges.
