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#326 – Annaka Harris: Free Will, Consciousness, and the Nature of Reality

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Oct 5, 2022

Guest

Annaka Harris

Annaka Harris, author of "Conscious: A Brief Guide to the Fundamental Mystery of the Mind," explores the mysteries of consciousness and the nature of reality. She delves into whether free will is an illusion and discusses the intriguing behavior of pea tendrils, which may challenge our views on consciousness in non-human organisms. Harris also reflects on the complex relationship between memory, self-identity, and mental health, emphasizing the transformative effects of meditation and the interconnectedness of all consciousness.

02:46:15

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insights

INSIGHT

Determinism and the Brain

Human brains are complex systems with numerous inputs and potential outputs.
Despite this complexity, our behavior in any given moment might be predetermined.

insights

INSIGHT

The Illusion of "I"

"I" is a useful shorthand for our brain-body system but creates a false sense of separation.
The illusion arises when we believe something outside our brain can intervene in its processes.

insights

INSIGHT

Autobiographical vs. Fundamental Self

Autobiographical self, tied to memory, is distinct from the fundamental sense of self.
Loss of memory impacts the autobiographical self, not the core feeling of being an "I".

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Enhancing Focus and Building Excellence in Team Dynamics

04:38 • 3min

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Challenging Intuition: Free Will and Consciousness

07:20 • 14min

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The Consciousness of Pea Tendrils

21:08 • 15min

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Exploring Consciousness and Identity

36:08 • 18min

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Exploring Consciousness and Free Will

54:03 • 26min

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The Illusion of Self and Conscious Experience

01:20:24 • 17min

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The Balance of Acceptance and Perspective in Life

01:37:28 • 4min

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Navigating Mental Health and Psychedelics

01:41:52 • 11min

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The Art of Meditation

01:52:26 • 8min

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Consciousness and the Nature of Reality

02:00:13 • 20min

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Consciousness, AI, and the Nature of Suffering

02:20:07 • 13min

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The Transformative Power of Love and Connection

02:32:43 • 2min

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The Interconnectedness of Consciousness and Reality

02:34:57 • 2min

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The Lobster in the Pot: Suffering and Existence

02:37:10 • 4min

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Exploring the Depths of Life, Purpose, and Passion

02:41:02 • 5min

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Annaka Harris is the author of Conscious: A Brief Guide to the Fundamental Mystery of the Mind. Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors:
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EPISODE LINKS:
Annaka’s Twitter: http://twitter.com/annakaharris
Annaka’s Website: http://annakaharris.com
Annaka’s Facebook: http://facebook.com/annakaharrisprojects
Annaka’s Books:
1. Conscious: https://amzn.to/3SFLLPE
2. I Wonder: https://amzn.to/3UPQTTm
Annaka’s Articles:
1. What Is Time?: http://nautil.us/what-is-time-238478
2. A Solution to the Combination Problem: http://annakaharris.com/the-future-of-panpsychism
3. Consciousness Isn’t Self-Centered: http://nautil.us/consciousness-isnt-self_centered-237720
Books:
1. The Case Against Reality: https://amzn.to/3MhW4Wt
2. Being You: https://amzn.to/3RsxdBQ
3. Livewired: https://amzn.to/3Cn9BKS
4. Spooky Action at a Distance: https://amzn.to/3y27N7a
5. The Order of Time: https://amzn.to/3Stqn0u

PODCAST INFO:
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OUTLINE:
Here’s the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players you should be able to click the timestamp to jump to that time.
(00:00) – Introduction
(07:20) – Free will
(1:00:37) – Consciousness
(1:31:09) – Depression
(1:44:26) – Psychedelics
(1:52:25) – Meditation
(1:56:49) – Ideas
(2:20:35) – AI sentience
(2:37:56) – Suffering
(2:40:53) – Meaning of life

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