Philosophy Rekindled: Recent Episodes
Alice Flanagan
Philosophy Rekindled examines early 20th century philosophers focusing on a one book at a time. The book of focus for 2020 is the 1920 New York published version of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter XXIII,Evolution and Culture and the Conclusion in five parts and this is the final part - Part 5.
Well, Ouspensky you have had us captivated for the whole of 2020 and our panellists have had moments where we have loved what you have to say and others where we don’t agree with you at all.
Chapter XXIII was a real eye opener as to what the ‘real Ouspensky’ may have truly thought about humanity and our panellists are left thinking ‘Who are you and what have you done with Ouspensky?’ but surprise is a key aspect of a good book I suppose. There is plenty to discuss with the end of Chapter XXIII, the section on ‘Evolution or Culture’ and the Conclusion.
We would like to thank all our listeners most sincerely for taking this journey with us. We are so thrilled you have taken interest in this dusty old book from a century ago. We are taking a short break and will be back with something new soon. All the best from Pete and Alice! (philosophyrekindled@gmail.com).
Part 9 of Episode 24 is the Conclusion of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Well Ouspensky, it has been a long journey and now we reach the conclusion. It has been a rollicking good read with lots of twists and turns. As is customary in any conclusion there is a summary of the main points of the book however, Ouspensky manages to tie in one more reference – the Apocalypse from Paul’s Epistle to the Ephesians ‘There shall be time no longer’. He throws in the odd word about this new level of consciousness being only for the ‘superhuman’ but wraps up with his final paragraph giving the rest of us hope (as any author worth his salt is want to do).
Part 8 of Episode 24 is the audio version of ‘Evolution or Culture’ of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
As an add-on to Chapter XXIII Ouspensky has included a section called ‘Evolution or Culture’ where he explores the question – must cosmic consciousness result as part of the evolutionary process or can it be awakened through education and self-development? It’s a great question and (spoiler alert) Ouspensky argues the latter but notes this only applies to the ‘special race of men’ he mentioned earlier in the chapter.
Well, Ouspensky just gets more and more terrifying as this chapter progresses and our panellists have a lot to say about it. Is Ouspensky showing us a side we haven’t seen before or have we missed something? One thing is for sure and that’s our panellists aren’t happy to hear Ouspensky’s thoughts on the ‘Master Race’ (a race that has ‘Cosmic Consciousness’) that dwell amongst us and what they might have in store for the rest of us.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 23 in several parts and this is Part 3. Well, the moment we have all been waiting for has arrived – Ouspensky’s annihilation of Dr Bucke. Our panellists are not sure why Ouspensky has made such an effort to quote Bucke just to bring him down – perhaps they had a falling out, or perhaps Ouspensky is exposing a more far-reaching agenda. Our panellists have picked up a few additions that Ouspensky has made on his own accord and to put it mildly if he is right what he has to say is terrifying.
Part 5 of Episode 24 is the third and final part of the audio version of Chapter XXIII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Fred Flanagan.
This chapter will be read by my late father Fred Flanagan as a nod to the past and the person who introduced me to the book.
Ouspensky has set the scene by quoting pages and pages from Dr Bucke and you’d think this meant he's a fan but alas (for Dr Bucke) no. In this part of the chapter Ouspensky annihilates Dr Bucke and has some very interesting/questionable things to add of his own.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 23 in several parts and this is Part 2. Well buckle up because Ouspensky is putting the spotlight on Dr Bucke (and not in a good way). Ouspensky will have his say in the next part of the panel discussion but for now our panellists have the floor and they are not sympathetic to Dr Bucke and what he has to say. Ouspensky has quoted Dr Bucke for a reason and as we look closely (very closely) we suspect Dr Bucke’s agenda has a bit of a dark side.
Part 3 of Episode 24 is the second part of the audio version of Chapter XXIII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Fred Flanagan.
I'm releasing the chapter reading for Chapter 23 in 3 parts because of its length this is Part 2. This chapter will be read by my late father Fred Flanagan as a nod to the past and the person who introduced me to the book.
Well, Ouspensky put a lot of time and effort into trawling through Dr R.M. Bucke’s book Cosmic Consciousness and quotes many excepts from it. Many, many excerpts in fact and one might think that perhaps Mr Ouspensky is a fan (spoiler alert - he’s not). So why does Ouspensky devote so much of this chapter to Dr Bucke? I suggest he is exposing Bucke as a bit of positivist in sheep’s clothing. So, judge for yourself and in the next part of the chapter reading Ouspensky will have his say.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 23 in several parts and this is Part 1. Well Ouspensky we should have seen this coming as you dropped many hints along the way. Our panellists have raised an eyebrow (or two) at some of Ouspensky’s revelations in the first part of this chapter. Some of the things he said 100 years ago are eerily true in 2020 which raises much discussion. This chapter has the shock value of an atomic explosion if you understand some of the hidden in plain view references. Don’t worry our panellists will point these out!
Part 1 of Episode 24 is the first part of the audio version of Chapter XXIII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Fred Flanagan.
I'm releasing the chapter reading for Chapter 23 in 3 parts because of its length this is Part 1. This chapter will be read by my late father Fred Flanagan as a nod to the past and the person who introduced me to the book.
In Part 1 of this chapter Ouspensky challenges whether we really understand the meaning of life. He suggests we are fixated in the material and social systems and miss the whole point. Ouspensky doesn’t stop there though suggesting that there are two separate races of man living simultaneously on the planet. One race, in the minority, has the ability to attain cosmic consciousness and with this knowledge comes power. The rest of us will have to get used to the concept of ‘some are more equal than others’. Hear him out and make up your own mind.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see parts 4 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 22 in five parts and this is Part 5. Well Ouspensky is finishing this chapter on a high (ok yes pun intended) as he enters into the region of drugs and the mystical state. He quotes from Prof. James’ book ‘Mystical States under Narcosis’ which our panellists agree must have been a rollicking good read (not). We then move on to the pamphlet from Mr Blood who coins the term ‘The Anaesthetic Revelation’ (it just gets better and better). Our panellists finish their discussion on the alternate paths to the mystical state suggested by Ouspensky being that of nature. Now whilst we are discussing drugs in this podcast our panellists are not advocating drug taking (just to be clear) however sex and rock and roll … well we leave that one up to you!
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Parts 1 to 3 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 4 and above of this episode.
Well as if Ouspensky would dare leave Helena Blavatsky out of his Rock Star Hall of Fame, not a chance! Our panellists don’t share his enthusiasm for Helena’s writings however and we move quickly to Prof. James who has a lot to say about mysticism, religion and sex (although he is ever so discreet about the latter). So after this, Ouspensky’s ‘Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll’ chapter has only one aspect to address … but that’s for the next podcast.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Parts 1 to 3 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 4 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 22 in several parts and this is Part 3. Well Ouspensky’s new Rock Star- Professor James (although we think the Prof is potentially the Johnny Rotten variety of rock star) explores mysticism in religions around the world and our panellists have some lively discussion around this. Our discussion includes Saint Teresa’s brilliant description of the mystical experience along with many other ancient writers extending all the way to China with Lao-Tzu and Chuang-Tzu.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Parts 1 to 3 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 4 and above of this episode
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 22 in several parts and this is Part 2.
What, after all, is mysticism? Well Ouspensky that’s a great question and our panellists are impressed by the answers you provide. We also loved the excerpts on Jacob Boehme and his description of illumination (despite Ouspensky referring to Boehme as ‘a common shoemaker’ – another to add to our list of faux pas perhaps). Ouspensky has really hit his stride by now and we are as keen as mustard to hear more.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Parts 1 to 3 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 4 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 22 in several parts and this is Part 1. Well Ouspensky appears to have a little issue with some of the theosophical authors of the time and this did not escape our panellists. There is a lot to discuss with the writings of Max Muller who examines the teachings from Ancient India and the knowledge they hold of the ‘real’ world. There is a lively discussion around the original teachings of religion - so what happened there? We are setting the scene to explore the role of mysticism in bringing forth the ‘communion with the invisible world’ and so this is just the beginning of a very interesting chapter.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Parts 1 to 3 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 4 and above of this episode.
Part 3 of Episode 23 is the third part (of three) of the audio version of Chapter XXII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
This chapter is packed to the rafters with examples throughout history of the mystical experience. Hampered by the constraints of language each extract provides a glimpse of the experience of the ‘real’ world. Ouspensky explores various means of obtaining mystical states including those under narcotics to those through contact with nature. If I was to be so bold, I could say this chapter is Ouspensky’s version of ‘Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll’! A brilliant chapter all round.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see parts 4 and above of this episode.
Part 2 of Episode 23 is the second part (of three) of the audio version of Chapter XXII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
This chapter is packed to the rafters with examples throughout history of the mystical experience. Hampered by the constraints of language each extract provides a glimpse of the experience of the ‘real’ world. Ouspensky explores various means of obtaining mystical states including those under narcotics to those through contact with nature. If I was to be so bold, I could say this chapter is Ouspensky’s version of ‘Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll’! A brilliant chapter all round.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see parts 4 and above of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 23 is the first part (of three) of the audio version of Chapter XXII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
This chapter is packed to the rafters with examples throughout history of the mystical experience. Hampered by the constraints of language each extract provides a glimpse of the experience of the ‘real’ world. Ouspensky explores various means of obtaining mystical states including those under narcotics to those through contact with nature. If I was to be so bold, I could say this chapter is Ouspensky’s version of ‘Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll’! A brilliant chapter all round.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see parts 4 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 21 in five parts and this is Part 5. Well Ouspensky is finishing this chapter on a high as he lists everything you wanted to know about the noumenal world (or world of causes) but were too afraid to ask and it’s a cracker. Pete Lancett has dubbed these 12 points ‘the beastly beatitudes of P.D. Ouspensky’ but all jokes aside this is a fabulous list and our panellists are not about to skip a thing going through them.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 21 in several parts and this is Part 4. There is much to discuss around Ouspensky’s concept of ‘false idols’ and the chief false idol may come as a surprise (or not – as the case may be). There is more discussion around the restrictions of language in describing any experiences of the ‘real world’ but Ouspensky gives it a crack none the less and our panellists are ‘picking up what he’s putting down’. We are on board all the way with Ouspensky in this part of the chapter (but that doesn’t stop Pete Lancett having the odd rant).
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 21 in several parts and this is Part 3.Our panellists are keen to discuss Ouspensky’s pointers as to how to access the ‘real’ world and why you possibly would want to. Ouspensky gives some great analogies to help us understand this albeit he uses Peter Lancett’s favourite (not) 2 dimension being to explain things.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 21 in several parts and this is Part 2.
Ouspensky you sly fox! This week we continue discussing Ouspensky's keys to the noumenal world and at least one of our panellists has not missed Ouspensky’s secret messages to a select audience.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 21 in several parts and this is Part 1. Well Ouspensky is not letting science off hook yet again and this time he’s giving it a serve for deliberately ignoring its obvious limitations. Well I must say our panellists are standing on the sidelines Mr Ouspensky with the pom poms out. We are all ears when Ouspensky discusses how we can transcend the three dimensional and as it turns out there are keys everywhere if we can throw off our three dimensional logic to recognise them.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
I'm releasing the chapter reading for Chapter 21 a day early (and will release the panel discussion with our usual cycle on Monday night).
Ouspensky continues his exploration of the Infinite looking at man’s transition to a higher logic. We get insight to the name of the book too – Logic of the Finite – the ‘Organon’ of Aristotle and the ‘Novum Organum’ of Bacon. The logic of the Infinite – Tertium Organum. All this and more as we get some insight into the keys to discovering the noumenal world and the impact that finding it has on the unprepared mind.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 20 in three parts and this is Part 3.Our panellists continue discussing Ouspensky’s concept of a second mathematics, transfinite numbers, which describe more closely the noumenal world. There is a lot to get our heads around and we dig deep to pull everything we can from Ouspensky’s words taking careful note of those he has italicised and capped. We really enjoyed this chapter and in true Ouspensky form his final paragraph is a corker which brings the whole chapter neatly to a close.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 20 in several parts and this is Part 2. Well our panellists are loving this chapter and there is much discussion around what Ouspensky has to say about new and old mathematics and their relation to new and old logic. And what would a book about the noumena be without a rollicking good discussion about infinity? Well there are an infinite number of things to get your head around with that one!
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 20 in several parts and this is Part 1. Well it’s a tough crowd this week (for one of our panellists that is!) as we work our way through the first pages of this chapter. Ouspensky’s choice of words and his seemingly over dramatic turn of phrase in the first few paragraphs is out of character and there is a reason for this as Peter Lancett points out – it would appear Mr Ouspensky is writing for two audiences. The discussion covers the ‘Abyss’ with the loss of everything real through to the logic of Aristotle and Bacon.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We've had a request to release an episode early! So I'm releasing the chapter reading for Chapter 20 (and will release the panel discussion with our usual cycle on Monday night).
Ouspensky really hits his stride in this chapter and has many pointers that he is speaking to two separate audiences. This chapter describes the transition to the new logic which frees man from the limits of the finite world. ‘This is the abys, the bottomless pit into which the mind falls, after having risen to heights to which it is not native’. Ouspensky also describes a new mathematics which attempts to describe the noumenal world, a mathematics which describes the world of the infinite and notes that a new logic must also be found for the same purpose. A truly brilliant chapter!
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 19 in several parts and this is the final part (Part 4). Well once again it’s been a huge chapter and Ouspensky has not slowed down on the way to the finish line either. Our panellists have much to discuss as we explore Ouspensky’s points on the different forms of consciousness from sleep to dreams to waking consciousness to the state of ecstasy. Ouspensky’s description of Nirvana elicits much conversation and we love how he has explained this one too.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
Once again Ouspensky has given us a chapter packed with gems and our panellists are well and truly onto them. In this podcast we discuss materialism, the life of an emotion, perpetual motion and does a dog need to know the weight of the sun (for that matter, do we?). Rest assured Pete Lancett does not disappoint with the odd rant or two (but we have to wait for the lavender diffuser to run dry first!).
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 19 in several parts and this is Part 2.
Oops Ouspensky, has Pete Lancett spotted a bit of a faux pas? Well he’s not going to let that go without comment! That aside, our panellists have a lively discussion on materialism and the differences between objective and subjective views of the world. We are also picking up what Ouspensky is putting down when he points out that while we continue to revere science as the font of all knowledge we are doing ourselves a disservice. It’s a short podcast this week but packed with opinion and debate and despite Pete’s rant at the start we are still agreeing with Ouspensky.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 19 in several parts and this is Part 1.
Well our panellists are far from disappointed by this chapter as we find ourselves in agreement with Ouspensky once more. In this podcast we discuss Ouspensky’s concepts around the fastest path to intuition and how fear and loss limit us. We agree with Ouspensky in his point of view that science is not the ‘God’ it makes itself out to be. As Ouspensky puts it, science does not have feet of clay but rather it doesn’t have any feet at all and yet we are hypnotised into thinking it has all the answers. We also love the way he distances mathematics from science (well done there Ouspensky).
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode
This chapter begins to explore how to expand the consciousness to experience the state of Nirvana and surprise, surprise it is not through positivistic thinking. Ouspensky examines the fastest ways to intuition and pulls no punches telling us how we have been ‘hypnotised’ by science. His description of the experience of absolute consciousness is beautiful and insightful describing it as ‘the sea fills the dewdrop’. Another brilliant chapter full of inspiring ideas.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 18 in several parts and this is Part 4 (the final part of this Episode).
Well it’s been a huge chapter, not in pages but rather in what Ouspensky has packed into them. Ouspensky brings the whole chapter together in the final few pages and our panellists are keen to discuss it. Have we been brainwashed by the ‘accepted’ view of morality limiting our true potential? Can we use our emotions to guide us to ‘our Garden of Eden’ and use this to define a true morality? Well Ouspensky says yes and we tend to agree with him!
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 18 in several parts and this is Part 3. Ouspensky continues his analysis of emotions and their role in the pursuit of knowledge. Our panellists are keen to debate Ouspensky’s ideas here and once again we are in agreeance. Why do species have common emotional reactions for example the human reaction of fear to snakes? How can we use emotions to give us true guidance through our three dimensional experience? These are some of the things our panellists explore as we work our way through this chapter.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 18 in several parts and this is Part 2. Ouspensky’s concept around emotion being the acquirer of knowledge gets a lot of interest from our panellists this week. Is knowledge required for action or is it really, as Ouspensky believes, the other way around? And what about the concept that intellect is also an emotion? Well our panellists agree with Ouspensky on this one as well as being in his court re the concept that spirituality is not opposed to intellectuality and emotionality – it's its higher flight. There is so much in this chapter and our panellists are having a rollicking good time discussing it.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 18 in several parts and this is Part 1.
The meaning of life, now that’s a topic for discussion our panellists take relish in and Ouspensky is on the money with this one. Consciousness is yet again the topic of lively conversation and Ouspensky is on a roll as he explains how, despite feeling like we are all separate, we are in reality all connected and expressions (or dare I muddy the water and say ‘parts’) of a higher consciousness. Our panellists have another cracker analogy to get our heads around this one.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 19 is the audio version of Chapter XVIII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
This chapter is full of gems and opens with Ouspensky’s take on the meaning of life which, may I suggest, may surprise you. The chapter has an in depth analysis of the true purpose of emotions and Ouspensky explores the concept of morality as it is commonly perceived. Ouspensky’s twist is in his concept that the common perception of morality is in fact a misconception which enslaves us rather than guides us. But Ouspensky doesn’t leave us without answers and provides a new definition of morality which, when applied, will free us to really experience life.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 17 in three parts and this is Part 3. Ouspensky has packed so much into this chapter and our panellists agree he has saved the best for last. Our panellists have a lively discussion about Ouspensky’s narrative on groupings of consciousness making up a higher order consciousness. We are especially blown away on Ouspensky’s concept of a world soul being made up of every consciousness in the world, a galaxy soul being made up of every consciousness in the galaxy and so on and so forth. But it doesn’t stop there, just as our five senses provide our consciousness with an experience of this 3D world what if we and all those consciousness that make up this world are like the ‘five senses’ of the world’s consciousness – what if our purpose is to experience so that the world can experience itself? We’d love to hear what you think!
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 17 in three parts and this is Part 2. Why do we identify with family, clan, nation and humanity as a whole? Ouspensky explains the zeitgeist that connects us and our panellists are keen to discuss this through. The big ticket item, however is Ouspensky’s introduction of Adam Kadmon and our panellists love this part with much to say about it too. But wait, there’s more, so much more and Ouspensky packs in concepts around body, mind and spirit, how the simple words ‘I wish’ don’t do us any favours and how desire ignites intuition. I know you’ll love this one! (oh and welcome San Jose to the podcast look forward to you joining us all )
There is a lot to get our heads around in this chapter and the first is where Ouspensky has made edits to his original text in the second edition (we all agree the revisions have made things easier to understand). Our panellists are on board with Ouspensky as we start discussing his concepts of consciousness and true to form Peter Lancett has come through with another cracker analogy to drive Ouspensky’s point home.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see parts 2 and above of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 18 is the audio version of Chapter XVII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky explores the concept that consciousness is in everything including things we consider inanimate. He explains how we tend to focus on the immediate and see ourselves as separate rather than seeing ourselves as a consciousness with a function forming part of higher grouping of consciousness. Just as we experience this world through our five senses could we perhaps be the ‘senses’ of the consciousness of the world?
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see parts 2 and above of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 16 in four parts and this is Part 4. So what do Ouspensky and surfing have in common? Our panellists discuss Ouspensky’s ideas around life consisting of ‘warring consciousness’ like surfing the green room (hang ten, rip tide and all that surfing lingo – just kidding, we only know enough about riding the waves to use it in a cracker analogy). To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see Parts 2 to 5 of this podcast
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 16 in four parts (we thought we’d be sorted in 3 parts but turns out our panellists had too much to say so we had to make it 4) and this is Part 3. Dualism and Monism – Ouspensky explains to us why ‘there can be only one’. Our panellists have lots to discuss on the topic too and yes we agree with Ouspenky. To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the panel discussion see Parts 2 to 5 of this podcast
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 16 in three parts and this is Part 2. Well Ouspensky and our panellists are all on the same page in this podcast so it’s high fives all round! Positivistic science, however, is in the firing line again and not just from Ouspensky as one of our panellists gives us chapter and verse as to why science is the modern day ‘religious cult’. Did Ouspensky know (all those years ago) something we didn’t?
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 1 and Part 3 of the Panel Discussion see Parts 2 and 4 of this podcast.
It would appear once again that in later editions Ouspensky has made some edits and our panellists discuss this on the way through the chapter (spoiler alert – we think Ouspensky’s edits were a good move). There is a lively discussion around Ouspensky’s bold statement that we cannot measure the vibrations of the noumenal world followed by some enthusiasm and mirth around the stories of the ‘giant brain’, the ‘giant stage coach’ and ‘the cat’ – we approve Mr Ouspensky and love the way you’ve explained these.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 2 and Part 3 of the Panel Discussions see Parts 3 and 4 of this podcast.
Here Ouspensky shines a stronger light on consciousness and presents his point of view that there is no dualism between the material world and consciousness as everything is consciousness (monistic and uniform). Ouspensky goes on to explain how we expand our consciousness to be able to communicate with higher consciousness. He doesn’t let positivism off the hook either as he tears it down even further by presenting his point of view that if it weren't for the existence of consciousness Positivistic Philosophy could have had a guernsay but alas the existence of consciousness 'spoils all the statistics' and hence seals the fate of Positivism.
To listen to the panel discussions of this chapter, see Parts 2,3 and 4 of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 15 in two parts and this is Part 2. Ouspensky has veiled what he is trying to say in many ways but our panellists have not been so coy and spelled it out (apologies the recording contains one F bomb). We also believe Ouspensky could have chosen a better word to use than ‘love’ to describe the creative force he is writing about but you can be the judge of that.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 1 of the Panel Discussion see Part 2 of this podcast.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 15 in two parts and this is Part 1.
Our panellists have gone to town on Ouspensky for the first half of this chapter but don’t worry we may been harsh but we are always fair and we know (because we’ve read ahead) that the second half of the chapter is where Ouspensky shines so let’s get into it!
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 2 of the Panel Discussion see Part 3 of this podcast.
Part 1 of Episode 16 is the audio version of Chapter XV of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky discusses the subject of love and the noumenal world but interestingly this chapter in the 1920 published version is twice as long as that in the revised 1922 version so I think even Ouspensky had a bit of a rethink on this chapter. None the less there is plenty of interesting content to muse over with the second half of the chapter giving us the most gems.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Parts 2 and 3 of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 14 in two parts and this is Part 2. Our panellists have a lot to say about Ouspensky’s concepts on the soul of man and the differences between them and there is a lively discussion around his views on ‘the arts’ being the doorway to the noumena.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 1 of the Panel Discussion see Part 2 of this podcast.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 14 in two parts and this is Part 1.
Our panellists had lots to say around Ouspensky’s concepts on objects being grouped in the noumenal word by their function. Is he onto something here? Well we think so but we’ll leave that for you to decide.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 2 of the Panel Discussion see Parts 3 of this podcast.
Part 1 of Episode 15 is the audio version of Chapter XIV of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky discusses the potential of the noumena of things lying in their grouping by their function. If a church wall is built out of the same bricks as a prison wall why do they feel different? He touches on the concept that things which appear related in the three dimensional world could be totally unrelated in the noumenal world and vice versa and therefore how does one approach the noumenal world?
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Parts 2 and 3 of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 13 in three parts and this is Part 3. Our panellists have a lively discussion on Ouspensky’s point of view on Karma (turns out it not about retribution) plus lots of other Ouspensky gems.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 1 and Part 2 of the Panel Discussion see Parts 2 and 3 of this podcast
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 13 in three parts and this is Part 2. Our panellists have a lot to say about Ouspensky’s concepts around the power of thoughts and even though he wrote this over 100 years ago there are some very topical ideas to talk about here today.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 1 of the Panel Discussion see Part 2 of this podcast and to listen to Part 3 of the Panel Discussion see Part 4 of this podcast.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 13 in three parts and this is Part 1. Our panellists have a lot to say in this chapter but despite this we keep up a good pace as we explore all of Ouspensky’s concepts. This podcast takes a good look at not just asking the question but knowing there is a question to ask. And the question? Well let’s see what Ouspensky has to say about that …
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 2 and Part 3 of the Panel Discussion see Parts 3 and 4 of this podcast.
Part 1 of Episode 14 is the audio version of Chapter XIII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
If Ouspensky was to split this book into two then Chapter XIII would be the first chapter of the second book as this is where all thought of mathematics and geometry are discarded and we get stuck into the nitty gritty of phenomena and noumena and the bridge connecting the two. There are lots of interesting concepts in this chapter and I’m sure you’ll love it!
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2,3 and 4 of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 12 in two parts and this is Part 2. Our panellists debate Ouspensky’s statement on whether you can measure the phenomena of life leaving you to be the judge of who puts the best argument forward. We then discuss Ouspensky’s concepts on the transfer of energy which allows ideas and thoughts to last for centuries, long after the original thinker of these thoughts is dead. And finally, spoiler alert! Kant gets another mention after all this time (I knew you’d be excited to hear that!).
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 1 of the Panel Discussion see Part 2 of this podcast.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 12 in two parts and this is Part 1. Our panellists have spotted a bit of an anomaly in different versions of Ouspensky’s Tertium Organum and it causes a bit of a stir – why did he swap out the word ‘phenomena of consciousness’ for ‘psychic phenomena’ in a later edition? There is much to discuss on Ouspensky’s definition of life and a seemingly throw-away line puts sexual desire centre stage (and doesn’t escape our notice might I add).
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 2 of the Panel Discussion see Part 3 of this podcast.
Part 1 of Episode 13 is the audio version of Chapter XII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky jumps right in to discussing the difference between the Phenomena of motion, Phenomena of life and Phenomena of consciousness and then to the phenomena and noumena of our world.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 and Part 3 of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 11 in two parts and this is Part 2. Our panellists continue the discussion on Professor Oumoff’s address and Ouspenky’s clever sleight of hand manipulating the content to suit his purpose. Make no mistake though Ouspensky is not short of people to bring into the conversation in this second half of the chapter – Herman Minkowsky (another mathematician), C.W. Leadbeater (an occultist) and Hinton also gets another mention (well Ouspensky brings him back in to point out he made a mistake …). Ouspensky is dropping breadcrumbs on where he is heading in this book and our panellists are quick to pick them up!
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 1 of the Panel Discussion see Part 2 of this podcast.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 11 in two parts and this is Part 1. Our panellists have spotted Ouspensky’s clever technique of introducing the concepts of alchemy and the Kabala into his discussion about science and in the process takes new scientific theory and poor Professor Oumoff along for the ride. There is much to discuss in this chapter and Ouspensky is getting very very interesting. (apologies - our panellist Dr Sue Flanagan joins us for part of this discussion but due to technical issues is not there for the full discussion)
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 2 of the Panel Discussion see Part 3 of this podcast.
Part 1 of Episode 12 is the audio version of Chapter XI of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky is starting to hint at the things to come in his book as he begins his move away from mathematics and into the realm of metaphysics and the occult. He’s not there yet as he clings to the glimmer of hope that science may well see the light and follow this new direction in the search of one unifying theory to explain this 3 Dimensional experience.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 and Part 3 of this episode.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 10 in two parts and this is Part 2. Our panellists once again take Ouspensky to task over his use of language to explain some esoteric concepts but we aren’t too hard on him as we concede he has also made lots of good points. We discuss his concept of higher dimensions containing ever higher groupings of things which appear as separate in the third dimension. We also raise some questions around the quote he includes from Helena Blavatsky focusing on one line in particular which gives us a clue as to the direction Ouspensky is about to head in (and we are excited about that!).
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 1 of the Panel Discussion see Part 2 of this podcast.
We are covering our panel discussion for Chapter 10 in two parts and this is Part 1. Our panellists have much to discuss in this chapter and in this part of the discussion we find ourselves creating our own analogies to explain what Ouspensky is saying (from Star Wars to the Theme Park) and for what it’s worth we think our analogies are pretty good!
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to Part 2 of the Panel Discussion see Part 3 of this podcast.
Part 1 of Episode 10 is the audio version of Chapter X of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky continues with his discussion on motion and whether or not it really exists in our world. He expands on this to explore mechanical motion vs the motion of ‘life’ and touches on the concept of ‘what is life?’. Ouspensky then continues to explain that with the growth of the space-sense there is a diminution of the time-sense and uses some great analogies to illustrate his points.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 and Part 3 of this episode.
In our panel discussion for Chapter 9 our panellists lay down their swords on their disagreement with Ouspensky’s argument that animals experience our three dimensional world in two dimensions – we get where Ouspensky is going and so we focus on the good stuff – the extra dimensional aspects of what he is discussing in the chapter.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 10 is the audio version of Chapter IX of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky continues with his comparison between the receptivity of an animal compared to that of a human being. In doing so he further explores the concept that the three-dimensional world is an illusionary perception.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 of this episode.
This chapter discussion is in two parts and this is Part 2. In the second part of Chapter 8 our panellists continue to discuss the validity of Ouspensky’s analogy of levels of consciousness comparing animals to humans. Spoiler alert – we don’t agree with Ouspensky on this one. Ouspensky even rallies the support of Aristotle and Bacon to prove his point but we still find holes in his argument. Don’t get us wrong, we still love this book but we call it how we see it right up to and including the very last sentence which surprisingly is absent from the 1920 published version but present in later editions. This last sentence raises some eyebrows as it mentions the concept of ‘the superman’ and we surmise the omission may have been politically motivated but none the less it does potentially reveal something about Ouspensky’s world and the circles he possibly moved in.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the first part of this panel discussion see Part 2 of this episode.
The Chapter VIII panel discussion is in two parts and this is Part 1. In this chapter our panellists discuss Ouspensky’s concept of the hierarchy of perceptions, conceptions, ideas, instinct and intuition as it relates to consciousness and challenge his interpretation on animals having a lower level of consciousness than us based on this hierarchy. We also take Ouspensky to task expressing our horror at the quote he chooses from R.M Bucke’s book ‘Cosmic Consciousness’ (so much so that in the chapter reading I have not read this quote verbatim) and question whether or not he is building some of his arguments in this chapter on ‘shaky ground’.
Ouspensky begins to explore the question ‘what is consciousness’ by looking at our receptive apparatus and the hierarchy of the interpretation of sensations into perceptions and concepts and where ideas, instinct and intuition fit into this. He explores what might prove the interdependence of this hierarchy on differing levels of consciousness and how we might prove this by using animals as an example.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode and to listen to the second part of this panel discussion see Part 3 of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 9 is the audio version of Chapter VIII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky begins to explore the question ‘what is consciousness’ by looking at our receptive apparatus and the hierarchy of the interpretation of sensations into perceptions and concepts and where ideas, instinct and intuition fit into this. He explores what might prove the interdependence of this hierarchy on differing levels of consciousness and how we might prove this by using animals as an example.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 and Part 3 of this episode.
Our panellists have a lively discussion on Ouspensky’s nuances of language whilst debating the concepts presented on mathematics, Euclidean and Non-Euclidean geometry and the original proposition that the three-dimensional world is confined to our receptive apparatus, to our psyche. Ouspensky’s tearing down of his scaffold of analogies in brilliant style does not go unnoticed and as always, although we love Ouspensky we are not going to let him get away with a single thing!
Ouspensky discusses how mathematics does not sense dimensions and proposes that this is possibly because dimensions don’t exist as ‘separate units’ per se because if they did mathematics would be able to define this. This chapter is the last chapter where Ouspensky uses his analogies to describe the experiences of different dimensions and explores the concepts of Euclidian and non-Euclidean geometry to explain our concepts of dimensionality. However he comes back to the original hypothesis which proposes that our experience of the three-dimensional world is confined to our receptive apparatus, to our psyche. This is a short chapter but ends spectacularly with the only ‘Ouspensky rant’ to be found in the book where he tears down the value of analogy to finding the complete answer to the enigmas of the world noting that analogy has been useful to getting us thus far on the journey but now we must continue on a different path.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 8 is the audio version of Chapter VII of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky discusses how mathematics does not sense dimensions and proposes that this is possibly because dimensions don’t exist as ‘separate units’ per se because if they did, mathematics would be able to define this. This chapter is the last chapter where Ouspensky uses his analogies to describe the experiences of different dimensions and explores the concepts of Euclidian and Non-Euclidean geometry to further explain our concepts of dimensionality. However he comes back to the original hypothesis which proposes that our experience of the three-dimensional world is confined to our receptive apparatus, to our psyche. This is a short chapter but ends spectacularly with the only ‘Ouspensky rant’ to be found in the book where he tears down the value of analogy to finding the complete answer to the enigmas of the world noting that analogy has been useful to getting us thus far on the journey but now we must continue on a different path.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 of this episode.
Our panellists are divided in this chapter – some of us love the fact that Ouspensky has consolidated the concepts of previous chapters into one whilst others are less than impressed that he is covering the same ground. None the less for those who enjoy a recap or just a refresher this chapter consolidates ‘the story thus far’ and for those who don’t enjoy a recap you’ll be firmly on ‘team Peter Lancett’ in this one. Having said that, Ouspensky does give us something new to think about as he touches on the concepts of life and omnipotence.
Ouspensky uses this chapter to consolidate the concepts of the previous 5 chapters regarding the analogies of the one, two and three dimensional worlds. He reiterates the differences in the phenomena and noumena of ‘Space’ and ‘Time’ in each of the imaginary worlds (dimensions) and introduces how the phenomena of ‘life’ could possibly be conceived in each of these worlds. Ouspensky also explores the concept of how beings transcending from a higher dimension could appear as omniscient and possibly omnipotent to beings living in a lower dimension.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 7 is the audio version of Chapter VI of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky uses this chapter to consolidate the concepts of the previous 5 chapters regarding the analogies of the one, two and three dimensional worlds. He reiterates the differences in the phenomena and noumena of ‘Space’ and ‘Time’ in each of the imaginary worlds (dimensions) and introduces how the phenomena of ‘life’ could possibly be conceived in each of these worlds. Ouspensky also explores the concept of how beings transcending from a higher dimension could appear as omniscient and possibly omnipotent to beings living in a lower dimension.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 of this episode.
Ouspensky has more to discuss on the Fourth Dimensional Space and our panel explore his concepts in this chapter which include – Does our three dimensional human body have a fourth dimensional counterpart? Is the Linga Sharira the part of ourselves in another dimension? What are the differences between three-dimensional and four-dimensional space and how do they impose on one another – are they two different spaces or rather different methods of receptivity of one and same world?
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 6 is the audio version of Chapter V of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
Ouspensky discusses more about the Fourth Dimensional Space – Does our three dimensional human body have a fourth dimensional counterpart? Is the Linga Sharira the part of ourselves in another dimension? What are the differences between three-dimensional and four-dimensional space and how do they impose on one another – are they two different spaces or rather different methods of receptivity of one and same world?
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 of this episode.
The Chapter 4 Panel Discussion runs over 2 podcasts – this is Part 2. In this podcast our panel continues to discuss Ouspensky’s ideas about the past, present and future. We explore questions like - Is the future preordained or does it depend on the events of the past? And what of the past- has it really disappeared, no longer exists, gone – or does it exist in the same way the future does, undetermined and equally existing in all possibilities? In this part of the chapter Ouspensky poses and answers 2 questions – ‘Why does there exist in the world illusionary motion?’ and ‘Why cannot consciousness extend that slit?’. Finally we discuss Ouspensky’s hypothesis, put forward by Hinton, that our third dimension is possibly the surface between two higher dimensions.
The first half of the chapter was discussed as Part 2 of this episode. To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode.
The Chapter 4 Panel Discussion will run over 2 podcasts – this is Part I
Ouspensky has so much to say in this chapter that we are covering our panel discussion of it in 2 parts. In this part 1 and here our panel discusses Ouspensky’s ideas about time and the possibility that time and the concept of the passing of time is in reality a motion on a space in a higher dimension. We explore Ouspensky’s analysis of the past, present and future and examine what the present moment is – does it really exist as a point in time or is it just a transient point between the past and the future? And finally we discuss Ouspensky's ideas on how consciousness fits into all of these questions.
The second half of the chapter will be discussed as Part 3 of this episode.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 5 is the audio version of Chapter IV of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
In this Chapter Ouspensky discusses: In what direction does the fourth dimension lie? Is time really a motion on a space in a higher dimension? And what of the past, present and future – do they really follow in sequence or is that simply our three dimensional perception? What if our consciousness could expand to see beyond our three dimensional reality?
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 and Part 3 of this episode.
It’s a very short chapter but Ouspensky has plenty to keep our panellists talking as we discuss the analogies Ouspensky has used to help us imagine what lies in the dimension above our three-dimensional space – the elusive fourth dimension.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode.
What may we learn about the fourth dimension by a study of the geometrical relations within our space? What should be the relation between a three-dimensional body and one of four dimensions? Ouspensky continues to build on the concepts of Chapter II using analogy and geometry to examine the reality of our three-dimensional world.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 of this episode.
In Chapter II of Tertium Organum Panel by P.D. Ouspensky our panellists discuss Ouspensky’s ideas on the’ reality’ of our three dimensional space – have we arbitrarily ascribed the measurement of space by just 3 perpendiculars - length, breadth and height and do ‘matter and motion’ really exist or are they too simply logical concepts like ‘the value of a coin’ or ‘good and evil’?.
To listen to an audio version of the chapter reading, see Part 1 of this episode.
Part 1 of Episode 3 is the audio version of Chapter II of Tertium Organum Panel by P.D. Ouspensky read by Alice Flanagan.
In this chapter Ouspensky continues to build his scaffold of analogy to explain our three dimensional experience.
In this chapter he explores the’ reality’ of our three dimensional space – have we arbitrarily ascribed the measurement of space by just 3 perpendiculars - length, breadth and height and do ‘matter and motion’ really exist or are they too simply logical concepts, constructed by us, like ‘the value of a coin’ or ‘good and evil’?.
To listen to the panel discussion of this chapter, see Part 2 of this episode.
Chapter 1 Tertium Organum Panel Discussion Ouspensky begins building the scaffold for his first seven chapters. This podcast discusses the concepts and ideas covered in Chapter 1 (the reading of this chapter is available as a separate episode). This chapter explores the following: What do we know and what do we not know? Our data, and the things for which we seek. The unknown mistaken for the known. Matter and motion. What does the positive philosophy come to/Identity of the unknown: x = y. y = x. What we really know. The existence of consciousness in us, and of the world outside of us. Dualism or monism? Subjective and objective knowledge. Where do the causes of the sensations lie? Kant's system. Time and Space. Kant and the "ether." Mach's observation. With what does the physicist really deal? "Learn to discern the real from the false" THE VOICE OF THE SILENCE H. P. B.
Episode 2 consists of two parts - this is the chapter reading of Chapter 1 of Tertium Organum by P.D. Ouspensky. The panel discussion of this chapter is a separate podcast for this episode.
Welcome to our focus book for 2020 -
Tertium Organum - A key to the Enigmas of the World
And welcome to my podcast Philosophy Rekindled. The purpose of my podcast is to spotlight philosophical and metaphysical publications from the late 1800s early 1900s.
This first podcast is an introduction to the book.
Subsequent podcasts on this book will be in two parts, Part I - the reading of the chapter and Part II - the discussion with my panellists on the concepts and ideas covered in the chapter.
I hope you enjoy this book :)