Nested hermeneutics: Mind at Large as a curated trope of psychedelic experience
Interdisciplinary Science Reviews November 27, 2023 DOI: 10.1080/03080188.2023.2249208 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Hermeneutics Reinterpretation Phrase Trope literature Epistemology Value mathematics Perception Aesthetics Linguistics |
| Citations | 2 |
| Key points | Argues that Huxley's presentation of 'Mind at Large' misrepresents its philosophical backing and warrants re-evaluation. |
Abstract
Aldous Huxley's workThe Doors of Perception introduced the phrase 'Mind at Large' to the lexicon of psychedelic experience in 1954.I argue that its original presentation requires re-evaluation.I present evidence that Huxley manipulates the construction of the discourse he uses to present this phrase as a philosophically legitimate term.His choice of a pivotal quotation implies support from the conclusions of philosophers C. D. Broad and Henri Bergson.A hermeneutic analysis of this discourse highlights problems with this implication and shows that a reinterpretation of Huxley's methods and intentions is warranted.An increase in references to Mind at Large and related terms in studies of the effects of psychedelics motivates this re-evaluation of its implied philosophical value.