Dr. John Vervaeke

Christopher Mastropietro, a scholar and author specializing in philosophy and religion, joins the discussion on the dynamic relationship between Socrates and Søren Kierkegaard. They delve into Kierkegaard's existential themes, including the complexities of the self and the role of irony and pseudonyms in his writings. The conversation explores the importance of self-discovery, the challenge of understanding one's identity, and the significance of authentic connections in overcoming existential struggles, all through a captivating philosophical lens.

Explore the profound connections between knowledge and ignorance, emphasizing wonder in understanding. Dive into the duality of ultimate reality, merging intelligibility with existence. Discover Nicholas of Cusa's 'learned ignorance' to embrace contradictions for deeper truths. Engage in embodied dialogue to enhance cognitive comprehension. The interplay of Neoplatonism and Christian thought reveals a rich tapestry of philosophy, ultimately advocating for a participatory approach to reality and dialectical reasoning.

Discover the profound role of rituals as pathways to self-discovery and deeper consciousness. Engaging discussions on Neoplatonism and its impact on Christian thought reveal the transformative power of symbols and ceremony. Explore how rituals provide insights inaccessible through logic alone, challenging modern perceptions. With references to influential philosophers like Proclus and contemporary thinkers, the dialogue encourages a reevaluation of how we connect with reality. Dive into the unique ways rituals unlock hidden dimensions of human experience.

Dive into the world of Neoplatonism, where dialectic becomes the key to grasping the essence of the good. Explore the fascinating interplay between cognition and reality, unveiling how generative models shape our understanding. Engage with the thoughts of Plotinus and Descartes as they challenge traditional ideas of existence. The concepts of 'learned ignorance' and theurgia showcase paths to transformative self-awareness. This intellectual journey promises a deeper comprehension of reality and cognition, inviting listeners to rethink existence.

Dive into the philosophical essence of Stoicism and its modern relevance. Discover the vital distinction between joy and pleasure, and how self-awareness affects personal growth. Unpack modal confusion and its risks, like spiritual bypassing, alongside Epictetus's insights from cognitive behavioral therapy. Engage with serious play as a means to connect with different modes of being, while exploring the interconnections of love and personal development. Reflect on the role of attention and memory in navigating life's challenges.

Christopher Mastropietro and Guy Sengstock join the conversation, diving deep into the ecology of practices and their role in cultivating wisdom. They explore how self-identity is shaped within relationships, emphasizing the importance of virtues in communication. The discussion highlights the challenges of reconnecting with lost practices amidst life’s distractions. They also reflect on the balance of decision-making and virtue, likening collective dialogue to a jazz performance, showcasing the harmony achieved through shared understanding.

Join Guy Sengstock, co-founder of Circling, Christopher Mastropietro, co-author of "Zombies in Western Culture," and Taylor Barratt, an authentic relating practitioner, as they delve into the transformative practice of circling. They explore the intricate relationship between mindfulness and intimacy, discussing how these practices can lead to a deeper understanding of the self and collective connection. Their conversation touches on the importance of openness and authenticity, as well as navigating the complexities of collaborative dynamics in fostering meaningful dialogues.

Discover the transformative concept of metanoia through Antisthenes and the Cynic tradition. Explore differentiation, integration, and the importance of practical wisdom over theoretical wisdom. Delve into the significance of communication and co-orientation in philosophy, challenging societal norms along the way.

Explore the works of Norbert Wiley, George Herbert Mead, Charles Sanders Peirce, and others who have contributed to understanding the 'I' positions and the dialogical self. Topics covered include parts work, integration of intuition and rationality, non-propositional knowing, and healing and integrating different aspects of the self. Insights and practices shared to cultivate a richer understanding of oneself.

This episode of After Socrates explores Socrates' capacity for altered states of consciousness, his reliance on a divine sign within him called 'daimonion', the significance of communication and coordination, the functions of the left and right hemispheres of the brain, the transformative power of asking questions, and the exploration of emotions and identity.