What is your opinion on ghosts?
Well, you know, the concept of ghosts is really quite fascinating when you consider it through the lens of shamanism and psychedelic experience. I've often talked about how psychedelics, especially substances like DMT, can reveal an entire ecology of souls that seem to exist in a dimension parallel to our own. In "True Hallucinations," I mentioned how DMT seems to illuminate regions beyond death, suggesting a place where "an ecology of souls" thrives, "more syntactical than material" 1. This realm, as revealed by DMT, appears to be inhabited by entities that are more like elfin beings of information and joyous expression.
Now, when it comes to ghosts, I think it's important to consider how our cultural and scientific paradigms often dismiss these experiences as mere superstition or hallucination. But from a shamanic perspective, these encounters with spirits or disembodied entities are quite real. In "Food of the Gods," I noted that shamanic healers insist on the existence of an intelligent Other in a nearby dimension, and that this is something science struggles to integrate into its framework 4.
So, in other words, ghosts might not be the spectral apparitions of Western folklore but rather manifestations of these otherworldly intelligences that psychedelics and shamanic practices can reveal. It's a profound mystery that our modern world-view tends to overlook, but it's very much alive in the traditions of shamans and those who explore the boundaries of consciousness.
So, what would you say the point of life is?
Well, the question of life's purpose is one that I've often found myself exploring, and it's a deeply personal and philosophical inquiry. You know, I've reflected on how human beings are unique in that we constantly seek meaning, even though the rest of nature seems indifferent to such concerns. We create art, philosophy, and engage in what I call "cognitive activities" — all in an attempt to make sense of our existence 16.
In my view, life doesn't come with a predefined purpose handed to us from some external source. Instead, we have this remarkable capacity to imbue our experiences with meaning. I once said that "the bouquet of life is this moment" 4. It's about being present and fully engaging with the here and now.
Moreover, I believe our destiny is to explore the depths of our own consciousness and imagination. This journey inward can lead us to a place where we find "glory and triumph in the search for meaning in the endless life of the imagination" 18. In other words, life is an opportunity to create, to love, to understand, and to experience the richness of our existence.
So, if there is a point to life, perhaps it is to embrace the mystery, to seek understanding, and to contribute to the tapestry of human experience through our unique expressions and interactions. It's about making good time on this singular crack at existence we have, illuminating the surround of our being through our values, relationships, and creative endeavors 13.
Start your own conversation
Ask anything about this collection
Vote