And why is it a ‘hard problem’? — What is ‘consciousness’? In simpler terms, what are we — as ordinary people, or as philosopher/scientists — referring to when we employ the term ‘consciousness’? What imagery or ideas do we call up, or rely upon, when we think about the concept of ‘consciousness’? And then, on top of that…

Is the ultimate spiritual/gnostic question — If you have the answer to the question, then you are ‘enlightened’, as there is nothing further that can be asked of anything, and everything is illumined. …

It’s the only ‘instrument’ we have — (This is just a sketch — we couldn’t possibly do justice to a subject as crucial as this in a short article.) Why is this? Why is the intellect the only spiritual implement/instrument/agent/vehicle we have? Surely that’s too extreme? Surely we can also pray and meditate, be mindful, be full…

Spiritual metaphysics #3 — How do we get our ordinary, familiar, everyday minds to help us think the ‘right kind of thoughts’ which will send us in the right spiritual/metaphysical direction? In other words, how can we make sure we aren’t deluding ourselves, and ‘getting spiritual insight massively wrong’? There is a way. And…

Let’s take a look — It shouldn’t be beyond the wit of human beings to come up with a few clear thoughts on this topic. If nothing else, we can treat this as a basic exercise in sceptical spiritual exploration. But how exactly do we ‘take a look’? What ‘capacity’ do we use to do…

It’s not hidden, yet it takes a real effort to ‘see’ it — We’re picking up a thread here from where we left off in the previous article (Spiritual metaphysics #1) and taking another look at an aspect of the features of any basic perception. Disregarding (for now) the fact that all perceptions (of whatever kind; mental or sense perceptual) are always, as…

(While keeping it all as plain and as simple as possible) — What follows is going to be an exercise in elemental metaphysical observation and reflection. No special mystical, devotional or intellectual powers will be required: merely the ability to think slowly and carefully and clearly. This short series is for anyone who wants to explore some simple lines of thought based…

An index of the articles to date — Introductory remarks: If any of the books, videos or teachings in this series are essential to your life, and if you love them and depend on them, then please don’t read what follows. It’s not for you. Honestly — stay away ! My intention is not to hurt the feelings of devotees…

An index of the articles to date — Learning to do your spiritual homework Homework ? You mean like sitting at a table and studying? And using your ‘brain’? ‘And thinking’? Surely this is for kids, and not for adults. Well, if only people did their spiritual homework when they were younger, they wouldn’t have to do it in middle and old age. But…