Closer To Truth’s Arts Seeking Understanding

Science & Philosophy
Producer: Getzels Gordon Productions & The Kuhn Foundation
Rights: Unlimited, 7/25/24 to 7/31/2026 (Live Linear Streaming available)
4×30
High Definition

101.  How do Mind, Art, Transcendence Relate?

What is the three-way relationship among mind, art, and transcendence? What is it about art that can elicit the sense of transcendence, going beyond the self, bursting the constraining bonds of semantic language? What is it about transcendence that it can be expressed by art? What in fact is transcendence, from a momentary escape from self to a full-blown mystical experience? How does the art-transcendence nexus engage the mind? We describe key terms and ideas.

102.  Toward a Cognitive Science of Transcendence

Understanding the nature of transcendence requires careful experimentation and innovative ways to reveal essence and tease out aspects of aesthetics. What are key characteristics of transcendence? Tracking imperceptible eye movements, or brain blood flow during mental activity, reflect neural activity, which is always ready to spring surprise.

103.  Can Art Affect Belief Systems?

Many belief systems, religions in particular, use art for promoting their messages and furthering their missions. What makes art so effective in building and solidifying religious traditions? Can art attract and motivate converts? Is affecting or changing belief systems a proper use of art? 

104.  Can Art Harmonize Diverse Religions?

Almost all religions use art in their sacred spaces and many use art forms in their worship rituals. Certainly, there is powerful social cohesion at work. Can cross-religion communications in art, largely nonverbal, work to enhance similarities and mitigate differences among religions that, at least superficially, have significant differences? Can art be a much-needed unifier?