Unravelling the self: What altered states of consciousness can teach us about self representation

Abstract

In this talk I’ll share some of the methodological approaches we use in the Altered States Lab at Macquarie University to conduct consciousness research. We’ve run studies on a wide range of altered states including meditation, hypnosis, flicker light stimulation, awe induced states, psychedelics and breathwork. I’ll discuss adapting altered states paradigms for online delivery, effective frameworks for retrospective and prospective studies, managing patient safety, open science, and measurement approaches for contrasting different conscious states. I hope to spark some discussion of creative ways that we can use research tools for innovative consciousness research.