Relevance realization

Relevance realization is a concept that emphasizes understanding what is relevant and meaningful in our environment. Tim Ferriss and John Vervaeke discuss this idea extensively:

1. Relevance Realization as Connecting Us to the World: John Vervaeke explains that relevance realization helps us connect to the world non-propositionally, giving a sense of connectedness or "religio." This idea is central to Vervaeke and shared to some extent by Jordan Peterson. Vervaeke focuses on enhancing relevance realization through intelligence, consciousness, meaning, and wisdom cultivation. While Peterson emphasizes narrative, Vervaeke believes this connection can go beyond narrative forms to techniques like Zen or Jesus' parables designed to break traditional narratives 1.

2. Consciousness and Relevance Realization: Vervaeke defines consciousness as enhanced relevance realization, particularly necessary for novel, complex, or ill-defined situations. Consciousness allows for the identification and attention to new relevant information. This higher-order relevance realization is linked with attributes like working memory and fluid intelligence, which extend to other conscious beings. Vervaeke introduces the idea of "adverbial qualia," such as hereness, nowness, and togetherness. These qualities become heightened in pure consciousness states, highlighting the core function of consciousness 2.

3. Impact on Personal Experience: Vervaeke shares how his study of cognitive science and philosophy has changed how he experiences reality. He mentions the concept of "affordances" by J. J. Gibson, which are opportunities for interaction between an organism and its environment. By realizing these affordances, Vervaeke feels a deeper sense of connectedness and transformation in his experiences, such as through Taoist practices. This shifts what becomes salient in his life, enhancing his understanding and participation in relationships 3.

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     1

     Meaning and Narrative

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     2

     Consciousness and Relevance

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     3

     Connectedness and Experience

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These discussions underline the significant role of relevance realization in understanding consciousness, enhancing personal experiences, and finding meaningful connections.