Research
Meditation and psychedelics are powerful probes of consciousness and thus valuable tools for the study of the brain and mind. The UCCR leverages this opportunity for consciousness research. Our research provides insights into the use of these tools to foster cognition, creativity and human development.
The UCCR embraces a philosophy of science beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries and reductionist methods, which have yet to explain human consciousness.
We propose that a more fruitful exploration derives from pursuing a more holistic and ecological understanding, involving a multidisciplinary, multilevel, and pluralistic approach.
Topics
-
Studies will explore the mechanisms of how semantics, meaning, and experiences of insight are altered (and potentially enhanced) by the use of meditation and psychedelics.
-
We will explore the embedded and embodied qualities of consciousness by studying the impact of psychedelics and meditation in naturalistic environments.
-
We will employ brain imaging and phenomenological methods to rigorously capture how features of consciousness are modified in individuals and expert practitioners (e.g., meditators and shamans).
-
The sense of self and its relationship to the world is arguably essential to consciousness. We will investigate how these features and their relationship are deconstructed and reconstructed in meditation and psychedelics.
