Books matching: perception
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- #1
The Doors of Perception by Aldous Huxley is a profound exploration of altered perception and consciousness, particularly through the lens of psychedelic experiences. The book delves into the author's personal encounters with mind-altering substances like mescaline, offering insights into reality, physics, and mysticism. Huxley's writing style in The Doors of Perception is described as a blend of essay and journal entry, providing a transformative and vivid account of his experiences and observations.
It was in 1886 that the German pharmacologist, Louis Lewin, published the first systematic study of the cactus, to which his own name was subsequently given. Anhalonium lewinii was new to science. To ... 'The Case Against Reality' by Donald D. Hoffman explores the Interface Theory of Perception, arguing that our perception of reality is fundamentally flawed. The author delves into the idea that what we perceive is a construction of the mind, and objective reality is fundamentally different from what we directly perceive. Hoffman uses analogies like a computer desktop and icons to explain how our conscious interface allows us to interact with the world in useful ways but does not accurately represent the underlying reality. The book discusses topics such as the limitations of human understanding, the relationship between consciousness and reality, and the implications of evolutionary processes on our perception of the world.
- #3
'The Spell of the Sensuous: Perception and Language in a More-Than-Human World' by David Abram delves into the intricate relationship between human cognition and the natural environment, drawing from various sources such as philosophy, shamanism, and the author's personal experiences. Abram explores the impact of language, particularly phonetically written language, on how we perceive and abstract the world around us. discusses the evolution of written language and its effects on human perception, emphasizing the importance of reuniting with the natural world and rekindling a sense of wonder and enchantment.
Abram combines science and mysticism to propose a paradigm shift in how we relate to and experience the world, highlighting the reciprocity of perception and the conceptual barriers between the senses. The narrative weaves together stories from indigenous cultures, critiquing the separation of time and space as abstract concepts and advocating for a return to a place-centric way of life. challenges the reader to reconsider their relationship with nature, perception, and the environment, offering a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of all beings.
IT IS NATURAL THAT WE TURN TO THE TRADITION OF PHENOMENOLOGY in order to understand the strange difference between the experienced world, or worlds, of indigenous, vernacular cultures and the world of... - #4
Paper Towns by John Green is a young adult novel that follows the story of Quentin Jacobsen, who has been in love with his neighbor Margo Roth Spiegelman since they were children. The plot unfolds as Margo enlists Quentin for a night of adventurous revenge escapades, only to disappear the next day, leaving behind clues that lead Quentin and his friends on a journey to find her. The book explores themes of love, friendship, self-discovery, and the complexities of teenage relationships. The writing style is engaging, with witty dialogue and well-developed characters that keep the reader invested in the story until the very end.
The longest day of my life began tardily. I woke up late, took too long in the shower, and ended up having to enjoy my breakfast in the passenger seat of my mom’s minivan at 7:17 that Wednesday mornin... - #5
'The Electric Ant' by Philip K. Dick is a graphic novel adaptation of a short story exploring the theme of perception and reality. The story follows a man who discovers he is not human but a biological android, leading him into a spiral of self-discovery and questioning existence. The book delves into the inner mechanisms of the protagonist and presents a slightly altered reality experience, blending elements of sci-fi with psychological exploration.
The graphic novel adaptation of 'The Electric Ant' captures the essence of Philip K. Dick's work, with beautiful illustrations by David Mack and a narrative that evokes a typical Dick atmosphere throughout. The story revolves around a planet filled with people unknowingly imitating robots, adding layers of complexity to the exploration of reality and identity.
'Being You: A New Science of Consciousness' by Anil Seth delves into the mysteries of consciousness in a scientifically grounded manner, offering a fresh perspective that aligns with both Eastern philosophies and current scientific theories. Seth carefully navigates complex topics such as perception, measurement, consciousness, and the connections between the mind and body. The book presents a rich accumulation of scientific evidence to build a compelling case for understanding consciousness as a controlled hallucination and a deeply connected aspect of our perception.
Five years ago, for the third time in my life, I ceased to exist. I was having a small operation and my brain was filling with anaesthetic. I remember sensations of blackness, detachment, and falling ...- #7
"The Country of the Blind" by H.G. Wells is a collection of short stories that showcase the author's range of writing, from wry observations to horror elements. The stories contain hints of Wells' popular novels and often have moral lessons akin to fables. The book includes the lead story, "The Country of the Blind," which explores the phrase "In the country of the blind, the one-eyed man will be king."
- #8
Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror by John Ashbery is a collection of poetry that takes readers on a grand tour of the author's mind, showcasing a blend of sensuous, satirical, melodic, and ironic elements. The title poem, which comes at the end of the collection, decodes the formal intentions of the earlier poems, highlighting Ashbery's unique approach that balances lyricism and experimental form. The book is described as a profound piece of work that expresses a whole world with restraint, captivating readers with its rich and thought-provoking content.
Oliver Sacks' 'An Anthropologist on Mars: Seven Paradoxical Tales' delves into the fascinating case histories of individuals facing neurological challenges and diseases. Through detailed narratives, Sacks explores the complexities of the human brain and its ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. The book presents a series of thought-provoking stories, from a color-blind artist adjusting to painting in black and white to an autistic individual deciphering social rules, offering insights into the nature of identity, ability, and disability.
Sacks' writing style captivates readers by focusing on the individuals behind the case histories, weaving together theories and personal stories to provide a deep understanding of the brain's workings. The book challenges readers to consider vastly different modes of perceiving the world and highlights the humanity and resilience of those facing neurological disorders. Through engaging narratives, Sacks showcases the power of empathy, adaptation, and the human spirit in the midst of neurological complexities.
I am writing this with my left hand, although I am strongly right-handed. I had surgery to my right shoulder a month ago and am not permitted, not capable of, use of the right arm at this time. I writ...- #10
'How the Mind Works' by Steven Pinker is a comprehensive exploration of the human mind, delving into topics such as evolutionary psychology, computational theory of the mind, consciousness, and cognitive evolution. Pinker discusses how our minds are composed of competing and cooperating modules that evolved for different goals, ultimately aiming to keep us alive and breeding. The book covers a wide range of subjects including neuroscience, sociology, computer science, and music, providing insights into what motivates humans and the implications of such motivations.
Why are there so many robots in fiction, but none in real life? I would pay a lot for a robot that could put away the dishes or run simple errands. But I will not have the opportunity in this century,...