#805: Philip Goff — Exploring Consciousness and Non-Ordinary Religion, Galileo's Error, Panpsychism, Heretical Ideas, and Therapeutic Belief

Overview

This episode dives deep into the nature of consciousness, the philosophical framework of panpsychism, and the intersection of spirituality and religion. Tim Ferriss and philosopher Philip Goff explore the mysteries of reality, the evolution of belief systems, and the practical and ethical implications of understanding consciousness. The conversation also touches on mystical experiences, the role of psychedelics, and the potential for a modern reimagining of religion.

Notable Quotes

- Consciousness is just what it's like to be you. — Philip Goff, defining consciousness in simple terms.

- Don't start from what do I want. Start from how can I contribute. — Philip Goff, on finding meaning and happiness.

- Jesus is pretty damn woke. — Philip Goff, on the radical social values embedded in Christianity.

🧠 Panpsychism and the Nature of Consciousness

- Philip Goff explains panpsychism, the philosophical view that consciousness is a fundamental feature of the universe, present even in the simplest building blocks like electrons and quarks.

- He clarifies misconceptions, emphasizing that panpsychism doesn't mean everything is conscious in a human-like way but rather that consciousness exists in simpler forms.

- Integrated Information Theory (IIT) and its overlap with panpsychism are discussed, with Goff noting that IIT proponents often view consciousness as fundamental rather than emergent.

- Nobel Prize-winning physicist Roger Penrose's ideas on quantum mechanics and consciousness are highlighted, including his belief that consciousness might be tied to quantum processes in the brain.

🌌 Cosmic Purpose and Middle Ground Between God and Atheism

- Goff explores the fine-tuning of the universe for life, arguing that it suggests some form of cosmic purpose without requiring belief in a traditional omnipotent god.

- He proposes alternative frameworks, such as teleological laws of nature or a conscious universe, which avoid the pitfalls of both atheism and traditional theism.

- The conversation touches on the simulation hypothesis and the idea of a limited-power god as potential explanations for cosmic purpose.

📖 Mysticism, Religion, and Heretical Christianity

- Goff shares his journey from Catholicism to atheism and back to a form of heretical Christianity, emphasizing mystical traditions and non-dogmatic engagement with religion.

- He critiques the modern focus on belief in Christianity, arguing that historically, faith was more about trust and commitment than intellectual assent to specific doctrines.

- Mystical traditions in Christianity, such as those in Eastern Orthodoxy, resonate deeply with Goff, particularly their emphasis on unity with God and others while retaining individuality.

🍄 Psychedelics and Spirituality

- The role of psychedelics in shaping religious and mystical experiences is discussed, with Goff noting their potential to deepen spiritual understanding.

- Tim Ferriss highlights the historical prevalence of psychoactive substances in religious rituals, such as the Eleusinian Mysteries, and their modern resurgence in new religious movements.

- Both express cautious optimism about the intersection of psychedelics and spirituality, acknowledging the unprecedented scale of modern psychedelic use and its potential societal impact.

💡 Practical and Ethical Implications of Consciousness

- Goff underscores the ethical importance of understanding consciousness, particularly in animals, plants, and humans in comas.

- He notes the growing scientific consensus that consciousness may be more widespread than previously thought, with implications for animal rights and environmental ethics.

- The conversation also touches on the limits of science in addressing consciousness, emphasizing the need for collaboration between scientists and philosophers to tackle its mysteries.