Altered States - Philosophy Talk

What this episode covers

Aldous Huxley explains his conception of the brain as a “reducing valve” of consciousness in his provocative book, The Doors of Perception. His famous experiment with the psychedelic substance mescaline was an attempt to open this valve and expand his capacity for knowledge. However, many drugs and psychedelics today are seen as simply tools for pleasure or the source of bad habits. Do drugs possess the capability to expand our consciousness and provide meaningful insight? Or are they nothing more than a route to empty delirium? Ken and guest co-host Alison Gopnik take a trip with artist, scientist, and founder of the Beckley Foundation, Amanda Feilding.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Philosophy Talk?

This episode is 49 minutes long.

When was this Philosophy Talk episode published?

This episode was published on May 22, 2016.

What is this episode about?

Aldous Huxley explains his conception of the brain as a “reducing valve” of consciousness in his provocative book, The Doors of Perception. His famous experiment with the psychedelic substance mescaline was an attempt to open this valve and expand...

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