ASEF Podcast
The American Slovenian Education Foundation (ASEF) is the leading foundation fostering talented individuals and higher education of deserving Slovenians worldwide through its exchange Fellowship programs and promotion of Slovenian culture and language. In the ASEF Podcast, we interview professors about their research, best practices in their field, and their vision for the development of the field in Slovenia as well as collaboration amongst Slovenians worldwide.
Visit us at https://www.asef.net/ or reach us at podcast@asef.net.
The podcast's introductory theme is the "C Minor Jazz Blues Backing Track" by Quist.
ASEF Podcast
Episode #38 (EN): Panpsychism with Philip Goff: Is Consciousness a Fundamental Feature of the Universe?
In this episode, we delve into the intriguing concept of panpsychism with Philip Goff, the philosophical idea that consciousness is a fundamental and ubiquitous aspect of reality. We explore its historical roots, examine contemporary debates, and consider its implications for our understanding of the mind and the universe.
The host of the science vertical on the ASEF Podcast: Tanja Janko
Timestamps:
01:36 - Why did you decide to pursue consciousness research?
03:45 - Defining Consciousness and Panpsychism
06:20 - The Dilemma of Consciousness in Science
10:20 - Quantum Mechanics and Consciousness
- paper I mentioned: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c07936
- For more context: Roger Penrose's Idea: Penrose proposed the idea that the human brain uses quantum effects in microtubules as the origin of consciousness. His hypothesis suggests that consciousness requires an uncomputable element, which he believes is the collapse of the wave function in quantum mechanics. He reasoned that since other brain processes are considered computable, the collapse of the wave function is the only place such a non-computable element could reside.
- Study Findings: The paper mentioned from a group unrelated to Penrose or Hameroff provides, what they consider, clear evidence that microtubules do display real quantum effects.
24:50 Thought Experiments: Mary the Color Scientist and the Philosophical Zombie
36:25 The Galileo Error
41:45 Exploring Consciousness: The Mind-Body Problem
47:40 Cosmic Purpose: Consciousness Points to Purpose?
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, learn more about ASEF on our website and consider donating to support the ASEF's mission and programs!