Consciousness, Capitalism, and Psychedelics: A Deep Dive with Oshan Jarow
Episode Overview
Exploration of the intertwining disciplines of consciousness studies, economics, meditation, and psychedelics Insights into Oshan Jarow's personal journey and exploration of systemic questions Discussion on the evolving landscape of hyper-capitalism and shifting governing ideas Implications of predictive processing for conscious awareness Emphasis on local political engagement and the value of reading and engaging with diverse perspectives
The consciousness studies, I think, was always the heart of things, the question that kind of grips me the most and just the general thrust of the things that I like to read.
Ever found yourself tangled in a debate about capitalism, only to feel misunderstood or dismissed? In this episode of 'Deep Fix', host Alex Olshonsky teams up with Oshan Jarow to unravel the complexities of our economic systems and their surprising connections to meditation and psychedelics. Oshan, a writer at Vox and co-founder of the Library of Economic Possibility, brings his rich background in cognitive science and economic policy to the table.
Together, they explore how we can foster environments that promote human consciousness and well-being. The conversation kicks off with a look at the buzzwords 'late-stage' and 'hyper' capitalism. What do they really mean, and why do they stir such strong reactions? Alex and Oshan break down these concepts in a way that's both accessible and enlightening. They then shift gears to discuss how meditation and psychedelics are influencing our understanding of economics and vice versa.
It's a fascinating blend of topics that might seem worlds apart but are deeply intertwined. Oshan shares his personal journey, from growing up in a new age environment to diving into contemplative traditions and systemic issues like healthcare and workplace dynamics. His insights into predictive processing—a theory about how our brains anticipate and interpret the world—offer a fresh perspective on conscious awareness.
This episode doesn't shy away from the big questions, but it also provides practical advice on engaging with local politics and broadening one's reading horizons. By the end of the episode, you'll have a richer understanding of how diverse fields like economics, meditation, and psychedelics can come together to create a more convivial future. It's a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and opens up new avenues for personal and societal growth.