Karl Friston: When Studying Consciousness Triggers Derealization

Karl Friston (UCL) explains the Free Energy Principle and its perils for consciousness research They explore the relationship between perception, action, and mental health, and offer practical advice for navigating existential challenges.

- 00:00:00 - Introduction
- 00:07:25 - FEP TOE explained
- 00:15:48 - FEP for physicists
- 00:18:24 - External world dual to you
- 00:24:25 - Senses and actions
- 00:36:25 - Marginal likelihood
- 00:54:34 - Change evidence or model
- 00:58:51 - Eye-touch consciousness demo
- 01:03:09 - Definition of "works"
- 01:12:45 - Advice on reality
- 01:22:45 - Derealization and depersonalization
- 01:34:34 - Ego death social lure
- 01:37:12 - Acceptance therapy (ACT)
- 01:43:09 - Thought loops
- 01:53:09 - Preventing existential crises
- 01:56:34 - Tea and smoking benefits
- 01:59:28 - Beta-blockers and fear extinction

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RESOURCES:

- YouTube link: https://youtu.be/SWtFU1Lit3M
- Part 1 with Karl Friston (technical): https://youtu.be/2v7LBABwZKA
- http://betterleftunsaidfilm.com

Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal features long-form, technically detailed interviews with leading researchers in physics, mathematics, consciousness, and philosophy, exploring topics at the level of active research. For academics, graduate students, and anyone seeking depth beyond popular science.

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