Wakefulness
The MIT Press eBooks February 6, 2024 DOI: 10.7551/mitpress/15196.003.0007 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | The author proposes that "wakefulness"—the subjective quality of cue-independent tonic alertness—is a distinct phenomenal state largely neglected by philosophy of mind, and argues that meditation can make this effortless, nonconceptual alertness more dominant than in ordinary waking consciousness. |
Abstract
Infinite simultaneity" and yet wide awake.[#2312] One classic definition of pure awareness is "restful alertness."There is a quality of relaxation and calm (see chapter 1), but also an ele ment of nonagentive vigilance, of attentiveness without doing.We now turn to this ele ment, the experience of being fully alert.Interestingly, modern science tells us that there is more than one kind of alertness.As I will explain in slightly greater detail in this discussion, neuroscientists use the term "tonic alertness" to describe that aspect of alertness that is sustained independently of external stimuli and not triggered by cues from the environment.This contrasts with what is called "phasic alertness," which is caused by sudden events like a loud noise or salient and unexpected changes in brightness, contrast, and the like.A specific phenomenal quality goes along with the first variety-the subjective, conscious experience of cue-independent tonic alertness-and it has been largely ignored by the philosophy of mind and consciousness.From now on I will call this quality "wakefulness."In meditation, the phenomenal character of wakefulness can be much more dominant than it is in ordinary wake states.The experience of bare wakefulness itself is effortless, calm, and entirely nonconceptual.As always, let us begin by looking at some examples: 687 I am in a state of wakefulness.I have a strong awareness of the pre sent moment.It is as if I am a guard dog: All my perceptions seem heightened.I am in consciousness but I am not doing anything except perceiving sounds, smells, sensations in my body.Time seems to be on hold.3305 [. ..]During wholeness experiences during meditation [. ..]I find myself in a state of inner silence with si mul ta neously increased wakefulness.[. ..] 3218 [. ..]Full wakefulness is there, dullness is absent.It is an extremely peaceful and natu ral state.Complete innocence, completely resting in oneself and the 4 Wakefulness