Episode 33: Controlled Hallucinations (Podcast with A Leading Voice in the Science of Consciousness, Dr.Anil Seth) [INFLUENCE SERIES]

How does our Brain Shape Reality?

“What we experience in this world is our predictions, not the actual reality”. Dr.Anil Seth

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the concept of "controlled hallucinations" with the renowned Dr. Anil Seth, whose groundbreaking work explores how the brain constructs our perception of reality. Drawing on themes from Immanuel Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason, the discussion sheds light on how our experiences are shaped by predictions rather than direct access to objective reality. Dana Pettaway, one of my graduate students, also shared her perspective, offering fresh insights into the philosophical and practical implications of these ideas.

Dr. Seth explains how the brain constantly interprets sensory data through a predictive framework, crafting what we perceive as the world around us. But what does it mean to live in a reality that’s largely shaped by our brain’s guesses? Is there a true, objective reality we can ever access? From simple moments like savoring coffee to profound states of altered consciousness, Dr. Seth illustrates how predictions color every experience.

We also examine the role of emotions and the body in perception. Emotions, as Dr. Seth notes, are not separate from rationality but integral to how we interpret the world. Anxiety, for example, can heighten predictions of danger, altering how we perceive reality. Similarly, the body’s physical state—whether we’re fatigued or in pain—directly influences the brain’s predictive processes.

Failures of prediction, such as those seen in hallucinations or delusions, reveal the fragile balance within the brain’s predictive mechanisms. How can these insights shape our understanding of mental health? Can we harness this knowledge to develop better treatments for anxiety, PTSD, or even psychosis? Dr. Seth discusses practical applications, from improving mental health interventions to revolutionizing fields like AI and virtual reality.

Don’t miss this fascinating blend of neuroscience, philosophy, and practical insights as we explore how our brains define the very fabric of our reality.

*Act of kindness suggested by guests: Give your time freely to somebody; Slow down and give people your full attention

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Dr. Anil Seth is a Professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at the University of Sussex and Co-Director of the Sackler Centre for Consciousness Science. He is a pioneering researcher in the fields of consciousness and perception, focusing on how the brain generates our sense of self and reality. Dr. Seth is the Editor-in-Chief of Neuroscience of Consciousness and the author of the widely acclaimed book Being You: A New Science of Consciousness, which was shortlisted for several awards. His work has been featured in leading academic journals and popular media, making him a sought-after speaker on the science of consciousness and its philosophical implications.

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