Dr. John Vervaeke

Sebastian Morello, a lecturer and public speaker trained in philosophy, delves into the intersections of mysticism, tradition, and modernity. He discusses the church's double crisis of meaning and authority, emphasizing the necessity of monastic practices in deepening spiritual engagement. Morello critiques modernity's impact on personhood and relationality, advocating for a holistic understanding of privacy in the digital age. Their conversation also explores the pivotal roles of ritual and liturgy, highlighting the significance of genuine spiritual practices amid contemporary challenges.

Can AI ever achieve true wisdom? The discussion dives into the profound differences between intelligence and wisdom, revealing the limitations of language models. It examines the essence of human cognition, emphasizing embodiment, caring, and participatory knowing. Concepts like relevance realization and the four kinds of knowing highlight why AI struggles with consciousness and understanding. The talk ultimately stresses that for machines to become wise, humanity must first cultivate its own wisdom.

Britt Hartley, a certified spiritual director and expert in secular spirituality, shares her insights on navigating faith and nihilism from her unique perspective as a former Mormon. The discussion delves into the challenges of deconstructing beliefs while emphasizing the importance of community and personal meaning. Hartley highlights the transformative journey from nihilism to spirituality, advocating for playfulness and curiosity in spiritual practices. The conversation also addresses the complexities of gender in spirituality and the need for inclusive approaches tailored to individual experiences.

In a captivating discussion, Andy Russell, a serial entrepreneur with a history in data tech, and Christopher Mastropietro, a philosophical writer focused on dialogue and self, explore the dark side of AI and social media. They delve into how algorithms manipulate human desires and the ethical dilemmas of data-driven persuasion. Russell shares his personal journey of reckoning with the implications of his work, advocating for transparency and human-centered design as paths to healing. The conversation emphasizes reclaiming personal agency in a technology-dominated world.

This engaging discussion dives deep into the transformative power of love, emphasizing its role as a binding force for personal growth. The hosts unpack the complexities of emotional attachments and societal influences on relationships, critiquing the superficiality often seen today. They also merge existential philosophy with concepts of love, exploring its impact in a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence. The conversation wraps up with reflections on trust, gratitude, and the abundance that love can bring into our lives.

Gregg Henriques, an American psychologist and professor, and Matthew Schaublin, a master's candidate in psychology, dive deep into the essence of authenticity. They explore its historical roots in romanticism and existentialism, drawing from thinkers like Heidegger and Kierkegaard. The duo examines how authenticity intertwines with mental health and societal pressures, revealing tensions between personal identity and social expectations. Their conversation highlights the significance of integrating various aspects of self for a fulfilling, authentic life.

In this enlightening discussion, Jordan Hall, a technology entrepreneur focused on AI and philosophy, teams up with Christopher Mastropietro, a philosophical writer intrigued by the self and dialogue. They delve into the complex interplay between AI and human flourishing, stressing the need for ethical alignment of technology with human values. Topics include the concept of 'intimate AI', the significance of privacy in fostering personal growth, and the pressing need for a new philosophical framework to address the meaning crisis.

Douglas Hedley, Professor of the Philosophy of Religion at Cambridge University, dives into the intricate realm of Neoplatonism and its relational view of reality. He and John Vervaeke explore how this ancient philosophy offers solutions to modern dilemmas. They discuss the importance of relationality over substance ontology, critique Heidegger's interpretations, and examine the role of imagination and symbolism. The dialogue emphasizes love's significance in transcendence, as well as the interplay between existence and deeper understanding through art and poetry.

Guy Sengstock, founder of the Circling approach, combines philosophical insights with relational dynamics, while Kyle Koch, a movement expert, focuses on nature-based embodiment practices. They discuss their upcoming retreat aimed at deepening connections to oneself, others, and nature. Topics include the significance of dialogical practices, the impact of technology on human connection, and the communal nature of meaning. They advocate for immersive, participatory experiences, emphasizing the importance of genuine relationships in an increasingly lonely world.

Mateusz Stróżyński, a professor of classical philology and psychoanalyst, delves into the wisdom of Plotinus and its relevance today. He discusses how contemplation is an active participation in reality, intricately tying thought with experience. Stróżyński also explores the interplay of knowing in contemplative practices, contrasting insights from Buddhism and Christian mysticism. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of reality, advocating for a holistic understanding that bridges philosophy, spirituality, and cognitive science.