Zappable
Zappable
Podcast Description
On machine learning, the mind, meditation, motivation, morality, and more
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Explores themes around computational neuroscience, connectomics, and the philosophy of consciousness with episodes that dive deep into brain efficiency and language acquisition. An example episode features discussions on the role of innate biological structures compared to AI methods, as well as the complexities surrounding the hard problem of consciousness.
On machine learning, the mind, meditation, motivation, morality, and more
In this conversation, Ariel speaks with Matthew Immergut, an associate professor of sociology and co-author of the acclaimed guide to meditation “The Mind Illuminated’. They dive deep into the nature of meditation, moving beyond the pop-culture view of it as a simple tool for relaxation. Matthew shares his journey into meditation, discussing its nature, goals, and the challenges faced by practitioners. He emphasizes the distinction between meditation as a formal practice and meditative activities, the importance of attention and awareness, and the potential for insights gained through meditation. Matthew provides practical advice for both beginners who are skeptical and for practitioners who have hit a plateau, and emphasizes the importance of joy in meditation. He discusses how there is no “silver bullet” for self-transformation, and the evolving gifts of meditation over time. They also discuss the role of neuroscience in understanding meditation, the balance between concentration and insight, the paradox of “letting go,” and the complex relationship between meditative states and a person’s everyday behavior.
Topics with Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Meditation and Background
04:34 Secular vs. Spiritual Approaches to Meditation
07:30 The Purpose of Meditation: Beyond Self-Improvement
10:33 Defining Meditation: Formal Practice vs. Meditative Activities
11:49 Training the Mind: Skills and Intentions in Meditation
14:01 Experiential Curiosity: Insights from Meditation
19:07 Skepticism, Setting Small Goals and Finding Enjoyment
25:27 Navigating Plateaus in Meditation Practice and Appreciating Noticing
29:43 The Role of Teachers in Meditation
31:27 Meditation: Universal Necessity or Personal Choice?
37:52 The Evolving Gifts of Meditation
39:46 Personal Journeys: From Orthodox Judaism to Meditation
45:01 The Mind Illuminated: Understanding Attention and Awareness
48:54 Meditation and Neuroscience
54:26 Shamatha & Vipassana, Insights and Awakening
1:01:21 Direct Approaches to Awareness
1:04:56 States vs. Traits in Meditation
01:09:00 Practical Meditation Tips and Finding Balance
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