Philosophize This! Episode #215: How Mysticism is Missing in Our Modern Lives
Host: Stephen West
Release Date: October 30, 2024
Philosophers Discussed: Simon Critchley, Martin Heidegger
Introduction to Mysticism in Modern Philosophy
In Episode #215 of Philosophize This!, host Stephen West delves into the often-overlooked realm of mysticism and its relevance—or lack thereof—in contemporary society. Building upon previous discussions of Martin Heidegger and Friedrich Nietzsche, West explores Heidegger's later philosophical inquiries into the concept of "releasement" or "letting be." This shift marks Heidegger's move away from the traditional subject-object dichotomy, emphasizing instead a more profound, immediate connection with existence that transcends rational manipulation.
"Is it possible to think without the will?" (02:15)
— Stephen West
Heidegger’s Releasement and Technological Enframing
West begins by contrasting Heidegger's later work with Nietzsche's focus on the will. Heidegger questions not only the freedom to will oneself into situations but also the freedom from the will—an essential component of authentic thinking. This concept of releasement challenges the modern technological mindset that reduces everything and everyone to manipulable objects aimed at optimizing efficiency.
"If by doing that it leads to a world where we're constantly seeing everything in terms of how to manipulate people to produce the most efficient outcome..." (05:30)
— Stephen West
Heidegger's critique suggests that modern society's relentless pursuit of control and optimization may be alienating individuals from a more meaningful and fulfilling existence. This leads to the central question of whether incorporating mysticism can rekindle a lost connection with being.
The Role and Misconceptions of Mysticism
West addresses common misconceptions about mysticism, particularly the notion that it is inherently irrational or anti-philosophical. Drawing on Simon Critchley's insights from his book On the Experience of Ecstasy, West clarifies that historical mystics did not view themselves as opposed to reason. Instead, they engaged in deeply rational and disciplined practices to attain their profound experiences.
"Most of these people were achieving what we would now call mystical experiences by devoting themselves to a highly rational engagement with the texts and practices of their time." (12:45)
— Stephen West
Critchley points out that the term "mystic" only emerged in the 1700s, during a cultural shift that increasingly valued rationality over religious fervor. This historical context has unfortunately led to mysticism being sidelined and misunderstood in modern philosophical discourse.
Defining Mystical Experiences
Mystical experiences, as discussed by Critchley and highlighted by West, generally fall into two categories:
- Transcendence of the Self: Experiencing unity or communion with the divine or something greater than oneself.
- Dissolution of the Self: The self dissolves or becomes less prominent, allowing for a sense of being part of a larger whole.
These experiences are often accompanied by intense emotions such as peace, ecstasy, love, awe, and even fear, which mystics describe as feeling more real than ordinary reality yet challenging to articulate rationally.
"The reality of this type of experience comes down not to whether it connects to some cause in the material world, but the reality of subjective transformation." (32:10)
— Stephen West
Challenges of Experiencing Mysticism in the Modern World
West emphasizes the difficulties modern individuals face in accessing mystical experiences. The pervasive influence of technology, constant media consumption, and the prioritization of rationality constrain the ability to surrender to and embrace these profound states of being. Critchley labels contemporary adulthood as "the abdication of ecstasy," where the focus on self and efficiency leaves little room for the vulnerability required to experience mysticism.
"Adulthood is what he calls the abdication of ecstasy. We live so much of our lives as adults obsessing over ourselves and our own egos..." (25:50)
— Stephen West
Modern Pathways to Mystical Experiences
Despite these challenges, Critchley argues that the democratization of mysticism in the post-Protestant Reformation era has made mystical experiences more accessible through secular avenues such as art, poetry, and music. West highlights the work of poets like Rumi, whose verses can evoke a sense of unity and transcendence akin to mystical experiences without relying on traditional religious frameworks.
"Poetry is a type of art that really does open things up to a whole different kind of expression." (40:20)
— Stephen West
Additionally, contemporary practices like deep philosophical reading, musical immersion, and other aesthetic experiences can serve as gateways to experiencing a deeper connection with existence.
Simon Critchley’s Insights and Recommendations
Simon Critchley's approach to mysticism involves reinterpreting it through a secular lens. He suggests that engaging deeply with philosophical texts and aesthetic practices can cultivate the openness necessary for mystical experiences. Critchley believes that such experiences are not reserved for the religious or the mystically inclined but are attainable by anyone willing to embark on a disciplined, contemplative path.
"Mysticism is a tendency more than anything to Simon Critchley." (50:15)
— Stephen West
West underscores that achieving mystical experiences is typically a gradual process, involving consistent practices over time rather than sudden, transformative moments. This perspective aligns with Heidegger's notion of releasement, emphasizing a steady shift away from the subject-object paradigm towards a more integrated relationship with being.
Conclusion: Reintegrating Mysticism into Modern Thought
In wrapping up, West advocates for the reintegration of mysticism into modern philosophical discourse as a means to counterbalance the alienating effects of contemporary rationality and technological enframing. By embracing the insights of philosophers like Heidegger and Critchley, individuals can explore deeper connections with existence, fostering a more meaningful and enriched experience of life.
"Mysticism actually has a lot of ways that it could benefit human thought if we were more open to it or took it more seriously." (58:50)
— Stephen West
Notable Quotes:
- Stephen West: "Is it possible to think without the will?" (02:15)
- Stephen West: "If by doing that it leads to a world where we're constantly seeing everything in terms of how to manipulate people to produce the most efficient outcome..." (05:30)
- Stephen West: "Most of these people were achieving what we would now call mystical experiences by devoting themselves to a highly rational engagement with the texts and practices of their time." (12:45)
- Stephen West: "Adulthood is what he calls the abdication of ecstasy. We live so much of our lives as adults obsessing over ourselves and our own egos..." (25:50)
- Stephen West: "Mysticism actually has a lot of ways that it could benefit human thought if we were more open to it or took it more seriously." (58:50)
Further Exploration:
At the episode's conclusion, West expresses interest in exploring other philosophical traditions, such as the Kyoto School—a unique blend of Eastern and Western philosophy in the 20th century centered around existentialism. He invites listeners to share their interest in future topics, showcasing the podcast's commitment to engaging with diverse philosophical ideas.
This episode serves as a compelling invitation to reconsider the role of mysticism in modern life, challenging listeners to move beyond the constraints of pure rationality and embrace a more holistic understanding of existence.