Psychophysical Theories of Contemplation
May 6, 2004 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780195051377.003.0005 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that contemplative thinking yields clinically significant benefits by enlarging consciousness and improving character through non-dualistic reconciliation of worries and conflicts, while dualistic thinking blocked awareness in Emerson and his disciples; proposes that Freud denied his oceanic feelings at the Acropolis because he could not trust his own psyche. |
Abstract
Abstract Contemplative thinking has beneficial effects of major clinical significance. Contemplation enlarges consciousness and improves character through the no dualistic reconciliation of worries, struggles, and conflicts. In contrast, dualistic thinking blocked the full development of awareness in Emerson and his disciples. Later, Freud denied the reality of his oceanic feelings when visiting the Acropolis, which is a symbol of wisdom and universal order, because of his inability to trust in the goodness of the deepest aspect of himself, that is, his psyche (Freud 1936).