SRS1110 A - Witchcraft - Pt 1

MODULE 4A (5 March)

Psychoanalysis, Meditators, and Healers

• The focus is on the subconscious and the mind/body link, exploring a new paradigm of understanding.

• Topics include the influence of imagery, the discovery of altered states of consciousness, and hypnosis.

• Trance states and different approaches to understanding various realities are discussed.

Introduction to NeuroTheology

• Emerging field that connects medical science and brain studies with religious experiences.

• The instructor reflects on personal experiences related to the evolution of thought in this area over the past 30 years.

• Acknowledges lack of evidence for opinions expressed until recent research has backed them up.

Historical Context

Psychology as a Young Field

• Psychology's development is relatively recent, dating back around 150 years.

• Introduction of the concept of Altered States of Consciousness (ASC) and its implications in understanding human experiences.

• Groundwork laid for discussing near-death experiences (NDE) and extraordinary human experiences (EHE).

Theoretical Frameworks

• Focus on theories put forth by anthropologists John J. Cove and Charles Laughlin.

• Exploration of two primary states of consciousness that humans transition between:

  • Warp: Refers to the regular state of consciousness we operate in daily (sitting, talking).

  • Shift: A transitional phase not commonly recognized in Western thought, likened to changing gears in a vehicle.

The Nature of Consciousness Transition

Understanding Warp and Shift

• Warp: Describes the different states of being (e.g., sitting, talking, thinking) we cycle through regularly.

  • Cove and Laughlin associate these states with physical and mental actions.

• Shift: Represents the transitions between states (moving from sitting to raising a hand).

  • Emphasizes the often unnoticed, neutral states of consciousness between warp phases.

  • Examples include daydreaming and the unconscious shifts during routine activities.

Real-Life Applications and Implications

Consciousness in Society

• Discussion on marketing strategies, exemplified by "Costco Syndrome," illustrating how environments manipulate consciousness and impulse buying.

• Recognizing our tendencies to slip into altered states during mundane activities reveals insights into consumer behavior.

Practical Examples of Shifts in Consciousness

• The significance of being aware of these transitions and their impact on daily activities such as driving or attending classes.

• The importance of remaining in a warp phase for optimal function and safety.

Historical Figures in Hypnosis

Early Practitioners of Hypnosis

1. Franz Anton Mezmer:

   • Introduced "animal magnetism," originally using magnets to influence patients.

   • Discovered that calm speaking could induce a relaxed, suggestible state in patients, hence initiating "Mesmerism."

2. Marquis de Puysegur:

   • Advanced the technique further, focusing on the power of the voice without the need for magnets.

   • Observed that patients could remain responsive while in a trance-like state.

3. James Braid:

   • Credited with coining the term "hypnosis."

   • Emphasized that hypnosis does not equate to unconsciousness; individuals remain aware and unable to be compelled against their will.

Understanding Hypnosis Today

• Hypnosis is recognized as an altered state of consciousness; however, suggestions cannot make a person act against their fundamental values.

• Participants bear responsibility for their actions even in altered states, emphasizing the conscious aspect of hypnotherapy.

Conclusion

• The session will conclude with discussions on neurotheology and how it intertwines with these themes.

• The instructor invites reflections on altered states of consciousness and their broader implications for understanding human behavior.