Hermitix

Dive into the enigmatic world of P.D. Ouspensky's reflections on Gurdjieff. Discover the mysterious narrative style and how Uspensky's memory shapes the teachings. Explore Gurdjieff's clever methods of testing his students and the idea that humans are mechanically asleep. Uncover the balance of essence versus personality and the practice of self-remembering. Delve into the teachings' relevance today, while appreciating the charm and influence of Gurdjieff's character in shaping a path towards inner growth.

Justin D. Garrison, a scholar of American literature and political thought, explores the relevance of René Girard's mimetic theory in understanding contemporary issues. He delves into the complexities of political morality and the role of scapegoating in society. Garrison argues that modern polarization is fueled by mimetic rivalry and discusses how education should shape desires rather than just skills. He connects economics to modern scapegoating and emphasizes the need for grassroots civic and educational renewal as a response to institutional decline.

Aaron French is a post-doctoral researcher in Religious Studies at the University of Erfurt, specializing in esotericism and the intersection of science and the supernatural. He discusses the evolution of UFO terminology from 'UFO' to 'UAP' and how historical stigma has affected research. Delving into esoteric practices, he examines connections between occult figures and UAP summoning. French also explores controversial topics like purported implants and the concept of etheric ships, shedding light on the fascinating interplay between spirituality and extraterrestrial phenomena.

In this engaging discussion, Karl White, a philosophy tutor and author, delves into Emil Cioran's complex views on the human condition. He explores Cioran's political transitions and disillusionments, shedding light on his pessimistic yet humorous insights on life and existence. Karl articulates Cioran's existential musings from post-war Paris and his literary connections with figures like Beckett. Their conversation reveals the therapeutic nature of writing for Cioran while inspiring listeners to reevaluate the significance of his work today.

Darren Allen, the author of The Book of Love and a writer at Expressive Egg, explores profound topics around love and identity. He dives into the essence of love as selfless and spontaneous, challenging conventional relationships that often prioritize control. Allen emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability and pain as pathways to authentic connections. He also critiques societal beauty standards, advocating for genuine love and personal identity that transcend superficiality. Ultimately, he portrays love as a state of being, urging openness in relationships.

Raphael Cormack, a British writer and Arab world scholar, delves into the lives of Tahra Bay and Dr. Dahesh, two enigmatic figures from early 20th-century spiritualism. He explores the vibrant occult scene in 1920s Cairo, highlighting its dance between mysticism and entertainment. Discover how Tahra Bay's performances blended identity and exploitation amid crises. The conversation also reveals the rise of Daheshism, the intriguing parallels between djinn summoning and hypnotism, and the fascinating cultural tapestry of 1960s Beirut.

Join James Harpur, a celebrated British-born Irish poet, as he delves into the depths of Christian mysticism and its poetic expressions. He shares insights from his book 'Dazzling Darkness,' exploring the transformative power of poetry sparked by his own mystical experience. The conversation weaves through the complex identity of Jesus as a mystic, the interplay between suffering and enlightenment, and the importance of embracing the noise of life. It's a captivating journey that reveals how contemplative practices can lead to profound self-discovery.

The discussion kicks off with insightful reflections on audience engagement and the value of feedback. It navigates the distraction political issues create in personal lives, advocating for deeper introspection. There's a candid exploration of the struggles with podcast content and meaningful connections in philosophy and literature. The speaker delves into Gurdjieff's teachings in relation to Christianity, alongside personal anecdotes about spirituality and desires. The interplay of philosophy, faith, and the natural world wraps up a thought-provoking narrative.

Luis Moris, a Jungian psychoanalyst from Zurich and author of 'Confronting Death', dives into profound themes surrounding mortality. He explores the deep psychological implications of death through a Jungian lens, emphasizing personal experiences and dreams as pathways to connect with the deceased. Moris discusses how confronting death can enhance self-awareness and personal growth, transforming societal fears around mortality into opportunities for introspection. The conversation also touches on dream analysis and its intriguing connections to near-death experiences.

Explore a haunting post-apocalyptic England through the eyes of a young girl in an innovative style. Delve into a male protagonist's journey where nature and myth triumph over human struggles. Contemplate existential themes as the narrative reflects on humanity's place amidst a reclaimed world. Discover a fresh take on acceptance and transformation, highlighting the beauty of language and the delicate balance of nature in a time of crisis.