Andreas Roepstorff - Interacting Minds

Andreas Roepstorff - Interacting Minds

Author: Mind & Life Institute September 2, 2020 Duration: 50:20
In this episode, Wendy speaks with anthropologist and neuroscientist Andreas Roepstorff. Andreas has been a pioneer in integrating these two approaches, examining how social context impacts the mind and brain. Their conversation covers a range of topics, including: navigating academic training in two disciplines, and how he bridges the different perspectives of neuroscience and anthropology; how being a research subject changed his view of subjective experience; intersubjectivity, and his work to bring together first- and third-person perspectives; research on fire-walking; meditation and microphenomenology; studying playfulness; predictive models of mind; the power of mindfulness to help with rumination; and the importance of exploring how two minds can process and respond differently to the same experience. Full show notes and resources

At the heart of Mind & Life is a simple, profound question: what is a mind, really? This isn't just a philosophical puzzle but a practical exploration of the mental habits that define our days. The conversations hosted by the Mind & Life Institute gently dismantle the walls between disciplines, weaving together insights from neuroscience and psychology with the lived wisdom of contemplative traditions. You’ll hear dialogues that feel less like interviews and more like shared discoveries, where a philosopher and a meditation teacher might find common ground on how attention works, or where a scientist discusses the social impact of compassion training. Each episode is an invitation to look inward with curiosity, examining how practices like meditation aren't about escape but about engaging with our inner world more skillfully. This podcast operates from the conviction that understanding our own minds is foundational to addressing broader cultural and societal challenges. It’s for anyone who has ever wondered about the mechanics of their own thoughts and emotions and sought a deeper, evidence-informed conversation about transformation. Tune in for a thoughtful blend of rigorous inquiry and personal relevance, where ancient questions meet modern investigation.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 90

Mind & Life
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