Introduction

You Can't Get There From Here

Consider the paradox at the heart of meditation practice.

Consciousness

Understand how consciousness is the one thing in the world that cannot be an illusion.

What Is Real?

Listen to Sam clarify his ideas about consciousness and first-person experience.

The Mystery of Being

See how meditation is the ability to experience things clearly, before concepts.

On Gurus

Consider the basic uncertainty about the nature of spiritual authority.

A Moral Illusion

Discover how reason and empathy relate to living an examined life.

Space, Time, & Attention

Consider what is real, what exists, and what actually matters in this moment.

Spiritual Materialism

Explore a common pitfall of meditation and spiritual practice.

Gradual vs. Sudden Realization

Discover the difference between two paths of meditation, and why it matters.

The Paradox of Identity

Explore the concept of personal identity.

Drugs and the Meaning of Life

Learn how psychedelics and other consciousness-altering drugs may be useful.

The Paradox of Death

Consider how thinking about death regularly can give life more meaning.

The Paradox of Psychedelics

See how psychedelics can be both a gateway to meditation—and a distraction.