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READING RECOMMENDATIONS

A Day on Consciousness

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Annie Murphy Paul - The Weekend University

The Extended Mind - Annie Murphy Paul

Annie Murphy Paul
Rupert Spira- The Weekend University

Non-duality and the Nature of Consciousness - Rupert Spira

Rupert Spira
Dr Iain McGilchrist - The Weekend University

Consciousness, Purpose, and Values - Dr Iain McGilchrist

Dr Iain McGilchrist
A Day on Consciousness - The Weekend University

Change how you see the world in this day of talks exploring the fascinating mysteries of human consciousness.

Right now, tens of billions of neurons are working together in your brain so that you can read these words.  How does this happen?  For the longest time, consciousness was life’s greatest mystery; something we thought we’d never understand.  Indeed, attempts to understand how the brain produces consciousness have, until now, been unsuccessful, leading many to conclude that it’s an unsolvable problem.  However, new developments in cutting-edge neurology, physics, and philosophy are beginning to show that we may have been looking in the wrong place, and that the materialist assumption that consciousness arises only as a result of brain processes is not only reductionist, but also scientifically inaccurate.  In this conference, we’ll explore consciousness paradigms that go beyond the brain, how they work, why they matter, and how understanding them can enhance your everyday experience of reality.

Content

  • Consciousness, Purpose, and Values; why time, space, matter, consciousness, values, purpose and the sense of the sacred may be the irreducible ‘building blocks’ of reality, the role that value and purpose play in consciousness itself, and why our failure to understand this may lie at the heart of the global crises we face today - Dr Iain McGilchrist
  • Non-Duality and the Nature of Consciousness; why materialist assumptions about the nature of consciousness may be the root cause of suffering within individuals, conflicts between communities and nations, and the degradation of our environment, and how a non-dual paradigm may offer the best alternative for restoring well-being to individuals and peace to our communities - Rupert Spira
  • The Extended Mind; learn how ‘extra-neural’ resources — the feelings and movements of our bodies, the physical spaces in which we learn and work, and the minds of those around us—can help you focus more intently, comprehend more deeply, and create more imaginatively - Annie Murphy Paul 

Event Schedule:

  • 1:00pm – 2:00pm: Consciousness, Purpose, and Values- Dr Iain McGilchrist
  • 2:00pm - 2:30pm: Break
  • 2:30pm - 3:30pm: Non-Duality and the Nature of Consciousness-Rupert Spira
  • 3:30pm - 4:00pm: Break
  • 4:00pm - 5:00pm: The Extended Mind- Annie Murphy Paul

Lectures & Speakers

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Consciousness, Purpose, and Values - Dr Iain McGilchrist

In a previous two-hour lecture for TWU, I argued for the nature of consciousness as a foundational element in the cosmos, not derivative from anything else.  In this talk, I will not attempt to repeat that argument, but start from where I left off.  In a new book, The Matter with Things: Our Brains, Our Delusions and the Unmaking of the World (Perspectiva Press, November 2021), I ask how we come to know anything at all, and move on to consider what we can say about the irreducible ‘building blocks’ of reality: time, space, matter, consciousness, values, purpose and the sense of the sacred.  I take value and purpose to be implied by the very nature of consciousness itself; constitutive of reality, not ‘invented’ (though obviously particular values and particular purposes may be); that although science is popularly thought to contradict such a view it does not, rightly understood, do so at all; and that reason and evidence strongly supports such a conclusion.  I hold that our failure to understand this lies at the heart of our global predicament.

Dr Iain McGilchrist - The Weekend University
Dr Iain McGilchrist

Consciousness, Purpose, and Values - Dr Iain McGilchrist

Dr Iain McGilchrist is a Psychiatrist and Writer, who lives on the Isle of Skye, off the coast of North West Scotland. He is committed to the idea that the mind and brain can be understood only by seeing them in the broadest possible context, that of the whole of our physical and spiritual existence, and of the wider human culture in which they arise – the culture which helps to mould, and in turn is moulded by, our minds and brains. He was formerly a Consultant Psychiatrist of the Bethlem Royal and Maudsley NHS Trust in London, where he was Clinical Director of their southern sector Acute Mental Health Services.

Dr McGilchrist has published original research and contributed chapters to books on a wide range of subjects, as well as original articles in papers and journals, including the British Journal of Psychiatry, American Journal of Psychiatry, The Wall Street Journal, The Sunday Telegraph and The Sunday Times. He has taken part in many radio and TV programmes, documentaries, and numerous podcasts, and interviews on YouTube, among them dialogues with Jordan Peterson, David Fuller of Rebel Wisdom, and philosopher Tim Freke. His books include Against Criticism, The Master and his Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World, The Divided Brain and the Search for Meaning, and Ways of Attending. He published his latest book: The Matter With Things, a book of epistemology and metaphysics. You can keep up to date with his work at https://channelmcgilchrist.com

Reading Recommendations:

  • The Matter with Things – Dr Iain McGilchrist
  • The Master and his Emissary – Dr Iain McGilchrist

Non-duality and the Nature of Consciousness - Rupert Spira

In this talk, Rupert Spira will explore the perennial, non-dual understanding that lies at the heart of all the great religious and spiritual traditions: reality is a single, infinite and indivisible whole whose nature is consciousness or spirit. Central to this understanding is the recognition of the nature of consciousness, which has been described in the Tantric tradition of Kashmir Shaivism as ‘the greatest secret, more hidden than the most concealed of things, and yet more evident than the most obvious of things’.

Rupert will suggest that the overlooking of the nature of consciousness is the root cause of suffering within individuals, conflicts between communities and nations, and the degradation of our environment and that its recognition must, therefore, be the basis of a new paradigm that restores well-being to individuals and peace to our communities.

Rupert Spira- The Weekend University
Rupert Spira

Non-duality and the Nature of Consciousness - Rupert Spira

Rupert Spira was deeply interested in the nature of reality and the source of lasting peace and happiness since his early age. After spending twenty years immersed in the teachings of classical Advaita Vedanta, he met his teacher, Francis Lucille, who introduced him to the Direct Path approach whereby one may recognise the source of peace and happiness in oneself. Rupert has written several books and holds regular meetings and retreats online, as well as in Europe and the United States. He is also a noted potter, trained in the British Studio Pottery school, with work in public and private collections. You can learn more about his works at www.rupertspira.com

Reading Recommendations:

  • Rupert’s books: Being Myself, Being Aware of Being Aware and The Nature of Consciousness 
  • Essay: Idealism, Realism, Solipsism and Non-Duality 
  • Youtube: How Does Consciousness Veil Itself? (along with many more on the channel)
  • Social Media Links: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube

The Extended Mind - Annie Murphy Paul

“Use your head.” That’s what we tell ourselves when facing a tricky problem or a difficult project. But a growing body of research indicates that we’ve got it exactly backward. What we need to do, says acclaimed science writer Annie Murphy Paul, is think outside the brain. A host of “extra-neural” resources—the feelings and movements of our bodies, the physical spaces in which we learn and work, and the minds of those around us—can help us focus more intently, comprehend more deeply, and create more imaginatively. In this talk, Paul will explore the research behind this exciting new vision of human ability, exploring the findings of neuroscientists, cognitive scientists, and psychologists. 

You’ll learn about the secret history of how artists, scientists, and authors have employed mental extensions to solve problems, make discoveries, and create new works. Additionally, the lecture will explain how you can incorporate outside-the-brain thinking into your everyday life. This presentation offers a dramatic new view of how our minds work, full of practical advice on how to think better.

Annie Murphy Paul - The Weekend University
Annie Murphy Paul

The Extended Mind - Annie Murphy Paul

Annie Murphy Paul is an acclaimed science writer whose work has appeared in the New York Times Magazine, Scientific American, and The Best American Science Writing, among many other publications. Her latest book is The Extended Mind: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain. Published in June of 2021, it was selected as an Amazon Editors’ Pick for Best Nonfiction, one of “50 Notable Works of Nonfiction” by the Washington Post, and one of “100 Notable Books of 2021” by The New York Times. She is the author of Origins, also named by the New York Times as a “Notable Book,” and The Cult of Personality, hailed by Malcolm Gladwell in the New Yorker as a “fascinating new book.” Her TED Talk has been viewed more than 2.7 million times. Paul is a recipient of the Rosalynn Carter Mental Health Journalism Fellowship, the Spencer Education Journalism Fellowship, and the Bernard L. Schwartz Fellowship at New America. A graduate of Yale University and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, she is currently a Learning Sciences Exchange Fellow at New America.

Reading Recommendations:

  • The Extended Mind: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain – Annie Murphy Paul
  • The Extended Mind by Andy Clark and David Chalmers, Analysis
  • How to Think Outside Your Brain by Annie Murphy Paul, The New York Times
  • Supersizing the Mind: Embodiment, Action, and Cognitive Extension, by Andy Clark
  • Mind in Motion: How Action Shapes Thought, by Barbara Tversky
  • Out of Our Heads: Why You Are Not Your Brain, and Other Lessons from the Biology of Consciousness, by Alva Noë

What TWU students are saying

attendee testimonals

I have attended 7 weekend University days and now I do not want to miss one because they have all been fantastic and worth dragging myself away from my lie in on a Sunday for. Each of the sessions I have attended have had excellent speakers talking about fascinating areas of Psychology. Having previously studied psychology I really enjoy delving back into the world of attending lectures and absorbing information again without the stress of exams or essays. But even if you have no psychology background I recommend coming to these events, especially if you see a topic you like you will not regret it! Niall not only organises these amazing event days but also now we have access to podcasts and he takes the time to organise a social after the event to meet fellow psychology enthusiasts as well as provide clear and easy instructions on how to get there, a certificate to say you attended the event and even lunch place suggestions which are little added extras which make the whole experience great. I am very glad to have the weekend university in my life and thank Niall and the team for making this happen.
Hannah Alice Howell
Event Attendee
The Weekend University is amazing! They recently hosted the Holistic Change Summit where such great minds were brought together to discuss a wide variety of topics relevant to change, growth and living a meaningful life. The facilitator, Niall, asked excellent questions which really gave the speaker the chance to discuss ideas that many of us wonder about. It was brilliant and I loved it.
Kiden Shae
Summit Attendee
Extremely stimulating events! It brings together great professionals who share their experience in their respective fields to pass their knowledge in a way accessible to the general public and other professionals alike. It is a great way to bring motivated people in the same place! Also, Niall is extremely thoughtful, considerate and driven person. His personal approach and professionalism in making those events happen does not go unnoticed!
Nikolay Petrov
Event Attendee
The most fantastic resource. Have been to a few of The Weekend University days - an incredible initiative bringing all that knowledge down from its Ivory Tower to an accessible and inviting platform - 10/10
Charlie Fooks
Event Attendee
Absolutely excellent day with The Weekend University last Saturday on Attachment and Psychotherapy. Superb speaker who was totally engaging, really useful practical insights, and great organisation. Thank you!
Helen Jane
Event Attendee
I attended an Existential Coaching seminar out of curiosity and ended up being supermotivated and serious to get more into this subject! The event was really went organised, the venue was central and easy to find and the organisers and facilitator were amazing. Totally recomend!
Fiora Maya Touliatou
Seminar Attendee
My first time at the Weekend University on their day of Wellbeing a fantastic event. Excellent venue, thought provoking speakers, interesting topics, really well organised, communication, support material a 5 star rating.
Viryapushpa Nolan
Event Attendee
I attended 'A Day on Sleep and Dreams’ and it was fantastic - excellent speakers and thought provoking content. The Weekend University has been a great discovery and I will defiantly be attending more lectures. The event was really well organised by Niall - informative emails, follow ups etc. I recommend that everyone takes the opportunity to go, you won’t be disappointed!
Hannah Durhager
Event Attendee
This event is nourishment for my mind! The kind of subjects usually reserved for academics is now open to us all and the information is delivered in a way that anyone can understand. The audience was filled with interesting people, hungry to learn and engage in fascinating conversations. We had all day to connect, to learn and to share. Just like a delicious cool drink on a very hot day, my mind felt quenched! Thank you, Niall, for creating this. I will be back!
David Saville
Event Attendee

Tickets

Full Day Pass: £49.99

(includes VAT + Booking Fee)

Student/Unwaged: £26.99

(includes VAT + Booking Fee)

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Date and time

30/01/2022

13:00 – 17:00 GMT

Venue

Online Conference

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The Weekend University guarantees an excellent learning experience. If you are not fully satisfied with the day, you will receive 100% of your money back – with no questions asked. Simply contact us on support@theweekenduniversity.com to arrange your refund.

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Date and time

30/01/2022

13:00 – 17:00 GMT

Location

Online Conference

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TWU Guarantee

The Weekend University seeks to guarantee an excellent learning experience.

If you are not fully satisfied with the day, you will receive 100% of your money back – with no questions asked. Simply contact us on support@theweekenduniversity.com to arrange your refund.

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