Jonathan Haidt: Religion, evolution, and the ecstasy of self-transcendence

The talk explores self-transcendence, a state where the self seems to melt away, leading to ecstatic feelings. Using the metaphor of a staircase, the speaker explains how people can reach altered states of consciousness through various means, including religion, nature, and even war. The concept of Homo duplex by Durkheim is discussed, highlighting the dual nature of humans as both individualistic and collective beings. The talk also delves into the evolutionary perspective, suggesting that self-transcendence may be an adaptive trait that promotes group cohesion and cooperation. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of finding one's staircase to achieve a sense of purpose and connection.

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