Space and Time

Alan Watts was a British philosopher, writer, and speaker known for popularizing Eastern philosophy and spirituality in the Western world. He was particularly influential in introducing Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and Vedanta to a wider audience through his lectures, books, and radio broadcasts. Regarding the question of "Who is it that knows no ego?" Alan Watts often discussed the nature of the ego and its dissolution in his teachings. According to Watts, the ego or the "self" is a construct that arises from our identification with our thoughts, emotions, and body. He emphasized that this sense of individual identity is not a fixed, separate entity, but rather an ever-changing and interconnected process. Watts suggested that the ego is a product of our conditioning and socialization, and that our true nature is not limited to this egoic self. He spoke about the possibility of transcending the ego and realizing a deeper sense of self or identity that is not confined to the narrow boundaries of individuality. This realization often involves recognizing the interconnectedness and interdependence of all things. Watts often encouraged individuals to explore their direct experience and to question the assumptions and beliefs that give rise to the ego. He suggested that through practices such as meditation, contemplation, and self-inquiry, one could come to a direct experience of the "no-self" or the dissolution of the ego, leading to a greater sense of freedom and unity with the world. It's important to note that the concept of "no ego" or "no-self" can be complex and nuanced, and interpretations may vary among different philosophical and spiritual traditions.

Alan Watts was a British philosopher, writer, and speaker known for popularizing Eastern philosophy and spirituality in the Western world. He was particularly influential in introducing Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and Vedanta to a wider audience through his lectures, books, and radio broadcasts. Regarding the question of "Who is it that knows no ego?" Alan Watts often discussed the nature of the ego and its dissolution in his teachings. According to Watts, the ego or the "self" is a construct that arises from our identification with our thoughts, emotions, and body. He emphasized that this sense of individual identity is not a fixed, separate entity, but rather an ever-changing and interconnected process. Watts suggested that the ego is a product of our conditioning and socialization, and that our true nature is not limited to this egoic self. He spoke about the possibility of transcending the ego and realizing a deeper sense of self or identity that is not confined to the narrow boundaries of individuality. This realization often involves recognizing the interconnectedness and interdependence of all things. Watts often encouraged individuals to explore their direct experience and to question the assumptions and beliefs that give rise to the ego. He suggested that through practices such as meditation, contemplation, and self-inquiry, one could come to a direct experience of the "no-self" or the dissolution of the ego, leading to a greater sense of freedom and unity with the world. It's important to note that the concept of "no ego" or "no-self" can be complex and nuanced, and interpretations may vary among different philosophical and spiritual traditions.

Alan Watts was a British philosopher, writer, and speaker known for popularizing Eastern philosophy and spirituality in the Western world. He was particularly influential in introducing Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and Vedanta to a wider audience through his lectures, books, and radio broadcasts. Regarding the question of "Who is it that knows no ego?" Alan Watts often discussed the nature of the ego and its dissolution in his teachings. According to Watts, the ego or the "self" is a construct that arises from our identification with our thoughts, emotions, and body. He emphasized that this sense of individual identity is not a fixed, separate entity, but rather an ever-changing and interconnected process. Watts suggested that the ego is a product of our conditioning and socialization, and that our true nature is not limited to this egoic self. He spoke about the possibility of transcending the ego and realizing a deeper sense of self or identity that is not confined to the narrow boundaries of individuality. This realization often involves recognizing the interconnectedness and interdependence of all things. Watts often encouraged individuals to explore their direct experience and to question the assumptions and beliefs that give rise to the ego. He suggested that through practices such as meditation, contemplation, and self-inquiry, one could come to a direct experience of the "no-self" or the dissolution of the ego, leading to a greater sense of freedom and unity with the world. It's important to note that the concept of "no ego" or "no-self" can be complex and nuanced, and interpretations may vary among different philosophical and spiritual traditions.

Art Bell's first interview with Terence McKenna, on the topic of Timewave Zero; from May 2nd, 1997.

Psychedelia: Terence McKenna on NPR (KQED radio), March 1999 Terence McKenna interviewed on NPR (KQED radio) by Michael Krasny in San Francisco, March 1999. This is one of the final interviews of Terence as his brain tumor was detected only a few weeks later. In the interview Terence talks about many subjects but one of interest was his recent experience with Bruce Damer exploring and building "avatar" virtual worlds.

Alan Watts - Part 7 The Tao of Philosophy - Limits of Language "The Tao of Philosophy: The Limits of Language" is a book written by Alan Watts that explores the limitations of language in our understanding of reality. The book argues that language is not a perfect tool for describing the world around us, and that it can sometimes lead us to misunderstandings and false assumptions. Watts suggests that language is a symbolic system that we use to represent reality, but that it is not reality itself. He argues that our perceptions and experiences of the world cannot be fully captured by language, and that we should be careful not to mistake our descriptions of reality for reality itself. The book also explores the role of language in shaping our thoughts and beliefs, and how our use of language can sometimes limit our thinking and understanding. Watts suggests that by becoming aware of the limitations of language, we can develop a more nuanced and flexible approach to thinking and understanding the world. Overall, "The Tao of Philosophy: The Limits of Language" offers a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between language and reality, and encourages readers to question their assumptions and be open to new ways of thinking about the world around them.

Alan Watts - Part 6 The Tao of Philosophy - Man in Nature "The Tao of Philosophy: Man in Nature" is a book written by Alan Watts that explores the relationship between human beings and the natural world. The book argues that human beings are not separate from nature, but rather an integral part of it. Watts suggests that modern Western civilization has lost touch with this connection, leading to a sense of alienation and disconnection from the natural world. He draws on the philosophy of Taoism to argue that humans should strive to live in harmony with nature rather than attempting to dominate and control it. The book also explores the ways in which different cultures have approached their relationship with nature throughout history. Watts argues that indigenous cultures and ancient civilizations often had a deep respect for nature and recognized their place within it, while modern industrial societies have tended to see nature as something to be conquered and exploited for human gain. Overall, "The Tao of Philosophy: Man in Nature" encourages readers to re-evaluate their relationship with the natural world and to strive for a more harmonious and respectful relationship with the environment.

Alan Watts - Part 5 The Tao of Philosophy - Myth of Myself "The Tao of Philosophy: The Myth of Myself" is a book written by Alan Watts that explores the concept of the self and its relation to the universe. The book argues that the self is not a fixed entity but rather a constantly changing process that is intimately connected to the world around it. Watts suggests that the way we see ourselves as separate from the universe is a mere illusion, and that in reality, we are all interconnected and interdependent. He discusses the Eastern philosophy of Taoism and how it offers a different perspective on the self, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature rather than trying to dominate it. The book encourages readers to let go of their ego and embrace the interconnectedness of all things. It suggests that by doing so, we can find a sense of peace and purpose in life. Overall, "The Tao of Philosophy: The Myth of Myself" offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the nature of the self and its relationship to the world around us.

Alan Watts - Part 4 The Tao of Philosophy - Seeing Through the Net "The Tao of Philosophy: Seeing Through the Net" is a book written by Alan Watts that explores the nature of reality and consciousness from a Taoist perspective. Watts argues that our usual way of understanding the world is through a "net" of concepts and categories that we use to categorize and make sense of our experiences. However, this net can also be limiting, as it prevents us from seeing the world as it truly is. Watts suggests that we can free ourselves from this net by adopting a Taoist approach to life, which involves letting go of our attachment to concepts and instead embracing the flow of life as it unfolds. He argues that the Tao, or the ultimate reality, cannot be grasped through concepts or language, but can only be experienced directly through a process of self-transcendence. Overall, "The Tao of Philosophy" encourages readers to question their assumptions about reality and to cultivate a more intuitive, non-conceptual way of experiencing the world.

Alan Watts - Part 3 The Tao of Philosophy - Coincidence of Opposites One of the concepts Watts discusses in the book is the "coincidence of opposites," which refers to the idea that seemingly contradictory or opposing things can actually be complementary and interconnected. According to Taoism, everything in the world is connected and interdependent, and opposites are simply different aspects of the same thing. For example, light and dark, hot and cold, and yin and yang are all opposite concepts that are interconnected and complementary. Understanding the coincidence of opposites can help us see beyond the limitations of language and rational thinking, and embrace the complexity and interconnectedness of the world around us. Overall, the idea of the coincidence of opposites is a central concept in Taoism and is an important part of understanding the fundamental principles of the philosophy.