Consciousness I
The antipodes Of the mind November 7, 2002 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780199252923.003.0013 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that a fourth state of consciousness, characterized by the realization of the absolute oneness of Brahman-Atman, exists and that ayahuasca-induced altered states can modify consciousness to access this state. |
Abstract
Abstract There must be a fourth state beyond the waking, dreaming and dreamless states in which the absolute oneness of Brahman-Atman is what should be known. Ayahuasca is an agent that induces an altered state of consciousness; as such, it does precisely that-it modifies people’s state of consciousness. In this chapter (and in Chs. 14 and 16) I examine these modifications and the effects associated with them. Before doing so, however, I will make some more general remarks regarding the nature of human consciousness.